Traveling tips for Turkey – what you should know before a trip to Turkey

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Turkey? You need more traveling tips for more unvailing information about a trip to Turkey. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, Turkey is a destination that has something for everyone. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and from the stunning beaches of Antalya to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey is a country that will leave you in awe.

But before you embark on your Turkish escapade, it’s essential to be prepared. Understanding the visa requirements to travel to Turkey, travel documents, and local customs is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first trip abroad, navigating the complexities of traveling in Turkey can be daunting.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential travel tips for Turkey, including visa requirements, travel documents, budgeting, safety, and more. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, we’ll provide you with the necessary information to make your trip to Turkey an unforgettable experience. So, let’s dive in and explore the wonders of Turkey with confidence and peace of mind!

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Visa requirements and Turkey traveling documents

When planning a trip to Turkey, it’s important to understand the visa requirements and necessary travel documents. Here are some key points:

Visa Application:

• The Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Application System was launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey.
• This system allows visitors traveling to Turkey to easily obtain their e-Visas online at www.evisa.gov.tr.
• The applicants can obtain their visa after they fill in the necessary information concerning their identity, passport, and travel dates and pay visa fee online.
• Please note that e-visa is only valid when the purpose of travel is tourism or commerce.

Passport Requirements:

• You must submit a passport or another travel document that is valid for at least another six months on the date you reach Turkey.
• Make sure it has at least one blank page in order for the embassy/consulate to be able to affix the sticker visa on it.

Proof of Accommodation:

• No matter how long you are planning to remain in Turkey, you must show where you will stay.
• You can present a hotel booking in Turkey or an invitation letter by a host in Turkey.

Proof of Income or Savings:

• You should have proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Turkey.

Return Ticket or Proof of Onward Travel:

• You should have a return ticket or proof of onward travel.

Budgeting for Your Trip to Turkey 

Budgeting for a trip to Turkey can vary greatly depending on your travel style and the locations you plan to visit. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Average Daily Cost:

Visitors to Turkey usually spend between $53 and $322 per day on average for one person and $107 to $644 for two people. This average includes sightseeing, hotel, food, and local transportation expenses.

2. Budget Travelers:

For budget travelers, planning to spend around $53 (TRY1,711) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities.

3. Mid-range Budget:

For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $133 (TRY4,254) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions.

4. Luxury Travelers:

Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $322 (TRY10,308), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options.

5. Weekly Budget:

Most visitors spend between $374 and $2,254 for a one week trip to Turkey, with the average being $930. This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels.

6. Two-Week Budget:

A two week trip to Turkey on average costs around $1,861 (TRY59,554) for one person and $3,721 (TRY119,107) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

7. One-Month Budget:

A one month trip to Turkey on average costs around $3,987 (TRY127,615) for one person and $7,974 (TRY255,230) for two people

What should I know before I go to Turkey?

Here are some important things to know before you travel to Turkey:

1. Safety: Turkey is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, like any tourist destination, petty crime can occur, so it’s always a good idea to keep your belongings close to you and stay vigilant in busy places.
2. Scams: Be aware of scams, especially in big cities like Istanbul. Common scams include taxi drivers hiking up the price of a trip, and being overcharged in bars and restaurants.
3. Natural Disasters: Earthquakes do occur in Turkey, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with local safety procedures.
4. Transportation: Flights within Turkey are affordable and efficient. If you’re considering an overnight bus, be aware that Turkey does not have lay-down seats, which might make for a less comfortable trip
5. Language: Knowing a few Turkish phrases can be very helpful
6. Customs: Being aware of Turkish customs can help you enjoy a more immersive and respectful experience
7. Health: Ensuring your well-being should be your top priority
8. Weather: Depending on what you want to do, you can visit Turkey during every season

What are the advice for traveling to Turkey?

Here are some travel tips for your trip to Turkey:

1. Respect Local Customs: Turkey is a country rich in history and culture. It’s important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
2. Currency: The local currency is the Turkish Lira. It’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand for small purchases.
3. Stay Hydrated: Especially in the summer months, it can get quite hot in Turkey. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
4. Try Local Cuisine: Turkish cuisine is diverse and delicious. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish tea.
5. Get a Local SIM Card: If you plan on staying in Turkey for a while, it might be worth getting a local SIM card for your phone.
6. Use Public Transportation: Public transportation in Turkey is reliable and affordable. It’s a great way to get around, especially in larger cities like Istanbul.
7. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Like any tourist destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
8. Learn Basic Turkish Phrases: While many people in Turkey speak English, especially in tourist areas, it’s always helpful to know a few basic phrases in Turkish.

What do I need to do before flying to Turkey?

Before flying to Turkey, here are some things you need to do:

1. Check Visa Requirements: Turkey has specific visa rules. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter the country. Without a visa, entry is permitted for a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period, and your passport must be valid for a minimum of 150 days from when you arrive.
2. Book Your Tickets: Plan your itinerary and book your flight tickets.
3. Plan Your Activities: Research about the places you want to visit and the activities you want to do.
4. Budget Your Trip: Plan your budget considering your accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
5. Book Your Accommodations: Book your hotels or other accommodations in advance.
6. Prepare a Travel Health Kit: Pack protective items such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit. Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before traveling.
7. Travel Insurance: Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance.
8. Check Travel Advisories: Check the latest travel advisories for Turkey from your country’s foreign affairs department.

What are the dos and don’ts in Turkey?

Here are some dos and don’ts when visiting Turkey:

Dos:

1. Dress Appropriately: As a Muslim country, women should keep their knees and their shoulders covered. When entering a mosque, you must remove your shoes, and you must have yourself well covered
2. Be Aware of the Month of Ramadan: This is the Islamic month of fasting when devout Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn until dusk. Avoid eating in public during the day, as a sign of respect
3. Learn Some Turkish Words: Knowing a few basic phrases in Turkish can be very helpful
4. Bargain: Bargaining is a common practice in Turkey
5. Drink Tea and Coffee: Tea and coffee are integral parts of Turkish culture
6. Eat the Local Food: Embrace the cultural traditions and try the local cuisine
7. Visit a Hammam: A Turkish bath is a unique and relaxing experience
8. Use the Bus System: It’s a convenient way to get around Turkey

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Diss Atatürk: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is the founder of modern Turkey and is highly respected
2. Don’t Get Into an Argument About Football: Football is a passion for many locals.
3. Don’t Buy Stones or Fossils: It’s illegal to buy and export certain types of stones or fossils from Turkey
4. Don’t Take Pictures of People Without Asking Permission: It’s considered impolite to take someone’s picture without their consent.
5. Don’t Do PDA’s: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

What do I need to travel to Turkey from Nigeria?

To travel to Turkey from Nigeria, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. Valid Nigerian Passport: You must have a valid Nigerian passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into Turkey.
2. Turkey E-Visa: Nigerian citizens are required to have a valid e-visa before entering Turkey. The e-visa replaces the old “sticker visa” and was introduced to speed up the visa application process. You can apply for the e-visa online.
3. Completed Visa Application Form: You need to fill out a visa application form.
4. Two Passport-Size Photographs: You need to provide two passport-size photographs.
5. Evidence of Travel: This includes flight reservations and hotel booking.
6. Letter of Invitation: If you’re visiting family or friends in Turkey, you need a letter of invitation.

Which month is best to visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown:

1. High Season (June to August):

This is when the temperatures can soar, and the number of visitors is at its peak. It’s the best time for beaches, Black Sea highlands, and outdoor events. However, accommodation rates and airfare prices are usually at their highest.

2. Shoulder Season (April to May, September to October):

These months offer moderate temperatures and lesser crowds. It’s a great time for sightseeing, hiking, and cultural events. Also, it’s still warm enough to swim, especially along the Mediterranean coast.

3. Low Season (November to March):

This period is when temperatures drop, bringing the possibility of rain or snow. However, the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts enjoy mild winters and are popular year-round destinations. It’s the best time for skiing and for bargains elsewhere.

What I Cannot bring to Turkey?

There are several items that you are not allowed to bring into Turkey. Here’s a list of some of the prohibited and restricted items:

• Narcotics and their derivatives: All narcotics and their derivatives are strictly prohibited.
• Weapons: Importing military equipment and weapons is forbidden. However, hunting weapons are allowed, but they require permits from the Turkish Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Forests and the Environment.
• Animals: Other than dogs, cats, and birds.
• Information material of an extremist nature: It is forbidden to bring in information material of an extremist nature, of obscene content, calling for interracial, religious, or interethnic enmity.
• Items made from parts of animals listed in the CITES Washington Convention: For example, a crocodile skin purse may not be taken, as all crocodiles are protected by the CITES.
• Antiquities: Antiquities are prohibited. It is prohibited to bring it as well as to take it out.
• Homemade alcoholic beverages.
• Police speed traps.
• Organic fertilizer is used for agricultural purposes.

What foods to avoid in Turkey?

When traveling to Turkey, there are a few foods and practices you might want to avoid for a variety of reasons:

1. Unfamiliar Foods: Some traditional Turkish dishes might be unfamiliar or unappealing to foreigners. For example, kokoreç (stuffed intestines), işkembe çorbası (tripe soup), koç yumurtası (ram’s testicles), and tavuk göğsü (chicken breast dessert) are considered unusual by some.
2. Ignoring Local Table Etiquette: Turkish table manners might differ from Western ones. For instance, it’s considered rude not to cover your mouth with your hand when using a toothpick. Also, it’s customary to say “Afiyet olsun” before eating and “Elinize saglik” after finishing a meal. Leaving leftovers can be seen as a sign that the meal wasn’t enjoyed, so don’t over-order.
3. Certain Meats: If you have specific dietary restrictions, such as a low-purine diet for gout, you might want to avoid organ meats like liver, kidney, and sweetbreads, as well as certain types of seafood like anchovies, shellfish, sardines, and tuna.
4. Processed Foods: Even if you don’t have a particular sensitivity, all processed foods can lead to internal inflammation. So, keep them to a minimum

What to avoid in Istanbul?

Here are some things to avoid when visiting Istanbul:

1. Riding a taxi without a meter: Avoid riding unmetered and unlicensed taxis. Always insist on having the meter working and use only the yellow cabs with a visible sign on the roof.
2. Staying on the Asian side of the city: Most of the sights in Istanbul, including the iconic Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar are located on the European side. Staying on the Asian side could mean lengthy distances to explore the main landmarks.
3. Eating around the sights: Restaurants around Sultanahmet district, the historical heart of Istanbul, are mainly aimed at tourists. You might find better and more authentic food options away from the tourist hotspots.
4. Neglecting Dress Codes at Religious Sites: When visiting religious sites like the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, women are expected to cover their heads, shoulders, and knees, while men should avoid wearing shorts.
5. Missing Out on Street Food: Istanbul’s street food offers a true taste of the city’s vibrant culture. Don’t miss out on this authentic culinary experience.
6. Paying the First Price at Bazaars: Haggling is an essential part of the experience at bazaars. Don’t accept the first price given.
7. Relying Heavily on Taxis: While taxis are abundant in Istanbul, not all drivers use meters, and some might take long, unnecessary routes to charge you more. Consider using efficient public transportation systems, like the tram system or ferries.
8. Traveling Cashless: While credit cards are accepted in many places, local markets, small eateries, and public transport often require cash.
9. Overlooking Local Customs and Etiquette: Be mindful of local customs and etiquette

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Is Turkey affordable to visit?

Yes, Turkey is generally considered affordable to visit compared to many other countries. Here are some average costs to give you an idea:

• Food: An inexpensive meal at a restaurant can cost around 202.75 TL. A meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant can cost around 900.00 TL.
• Accommodation: The monthly rent for a furnished 85 m2 (900 sqft) accommodation in an expensive area is around 35,390 TL. In a normal area, it’s around 23,580 TL.
• Transportation: A one-way ticket for local transport is around 17.00 TL. The monthly pass costs around 1,177.00 TL.
• Utilities: The monthly cost for basic utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for a 915 sq ft apartment is around 1,956.03 TL.

In conclusion, Turkey is a fascinating country that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cities, Turkey is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories. By following these travel tips, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the country with confidence and make the most of your Turkish adventure. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Turkey today and discover the wonders of this incredible country for yourself

Bookmark this article for future reference, and share it with others who may be planning a trip to Turkey. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy travels!