Turkey straddles Europe and Asia, offering ancient ruins, buzzing bazaars and stunning coastlines. To experience its delights while avoiding pitfalls, keep these tips in mind.
Know the best seasons to visit
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) bring mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is perfect for beaches but can be scorching inland, while winter offers snowy landscapes in the east and quiet city streets. Plan around religious holidays and national festivals, which may affect opening hours and transport.
Dress modestly away from resorts
Turkey is modern but conservative in many regions. In coastal resorts, swimwear is fine on the beach, but elsewhere both men and women should cover shoulders and knees. Bring a scarf to cover your head when visiting mosques. Locals rarely wear sleeveless shirts or short shorts outside holiday areas.
Learn basic etiquette
A firm handshake with the right hand is the usual greeting. Use titles like “Bey” (Mr.) or “Hanım” (Ms.) with first names in formal situations. Remove your shoes when entering homes and bring a small gift if invited. Public affection and raised voices are frowned upon; keep your behaviour respectful.
Tipping and handling money
The Turkish lira (₺) is the local currency. ATMs from major banks are safe to use; avoid standalone machines in convenience stores. Credit cards work in cities, but carry cash for markets, dolmuş minibuses and tips. Round up bills or leave 5%–10% in restaurants; tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is appreciated.
Avoid common scams
Be wary of taxi drivers who don’t use the meter or take long routes — insist on the meter or use ride‑hailing apps like BiTaksi. Politely decline invitations to carpet shops or bars that you didn’t plan to visit. Shoe shiners who drop a brush and then offer a “free” shine will demand payment. Purchase souvenirs from reputable shops and be cautious of fake antiques; exporting genuine antiquities is illegal and punishable by jail.
Stay safe from crime and terrorism
Pickpocketing occurs in crowded areas, especially Istanbul’s tourist sites. Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Turkey faces a real threat of terrorism; attacks have occurred in major cities. Stay alert, avoid demonstrations and follow local news and government advisories.
Observe local laws and Ramadan etiquette
During Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public during daylight hours. Driving can be erratic at dusk as people hurry home to break their fast. Always carry photo ID; it’s illegal not to have identification. Do not photograph military installations, and seek permission before photographing people.
Be mindful of health
Tap water is potable in most cities, but travellers with sensitive stomachs may prefer bottled or filtered water. Pack sunscreen, a hat and comfortable walking shoes. Stray dogs and cats are common; avoid touching animals unless they approach you first. Rabies exists in Turkey, so seek medical advice if bitten.
Practical advice for travellers
Use ferries instead of the metro in Istanbul for scenic and inexpensive travel across the Bosphorus. Domestic flights are affordable and save time on long journeys. Public transport is reliable, but consider renting a car for exploring rural regions. Learn a few Turkish phrases — simple words like merhaba (hello) and teşekkürler (thank you) go a long way. Support local artisans by shopping at markets and co‑operatives rather than large chains.
Do You Need a Visa?
Citizens of many countries, including the UK, EU, US and Canada, can enter Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180‑day period. Others must apply for an e‑visa online before departure. Ensure your passport has at least 150 days’ validity and one blank page. Upon arrival, ask immigration officials to stamp your passport; failure to have a valid entry stamp can result in fines or deportation. To stay
longer than 90 days, obtain a residence permit. For step‑by‑step instructions, see our Turkey Visa Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Many visitors can stay visa‑free for up to 90 days. Travellers from countries outside the visa waiver programme must obtain an e‑visa before arrival. Check your country’s status on the official Turkish e‑visa portal.
Is Turkey safe for travellers?
Most trips are trouble‑free. However, stay alert to petty crime and monitor travel advisories for updates on terrorism risks. Avoid political protests and keep abreast of local news.
What should I wear in Turkey?
Dress modestly in conservative areas and religious sites. Beachwear is fine at resorts but should not be worn away from the shoreline. Women should carry a scarf to cover their head in mosques.
How can I avoid common scams in Turkey?
Use official taxis or ride‑hailing apps, insist on the meter, decline unsolicited offers, and buy from trusted shops. Trust your instincts — if a situation feels off, walk away.