A Complete Travel Guide to Turkey

A complete guide to Turkey, its history, and culture, including crucial information for people going on vacation or thinking about purchasing property in Turkey.

Turkey is a diverse country with gorgeous scenery, genuine friendliness, and various resorts and activities to suit all interests. In addition, Turkey, a country straddling two continents and 10,000 years of civilization, is a treasure trove of history and culture.

Weather in Turkey – Aegean and Southern Mediterranean Coasts

Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts have an ideal Mediterranean climate with little humidity. As a result, may through October is the summertime season. With temperatures ranging from the low 20s at the beginning and end of the season to the mid-30s in July and August.

The aroma of citrus flowers fills the air throughout spring, the hills and valleys are lush with flora, and the cool, sunny days are great for trekking and sightseeing. Autumn is a great time to visit historical and natural places in the chilly weather or stock up on bargains at end-of-season discounts! Winters are often pleasant, with some sun and occasional showers. Swimming in the water is not uncommon, even in November.

Turkish Traditions

One thing that draws travelers to Turkey is the country’s mix of cultural influences and customs. Turkey has a long history and a rich cultural heritage. European and Asian powers reflected the complexity and diversity of some Turkish arts, languages, and handicrafts. Turks are proud of their centuries-old musical culture, similar to neighboring Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and northern India. As a cosmopolitan country, Turkey has accepted and created ideas and customs that incorporate Western, Asian, and Arabic aspects.

The Household

Family units are significant in Turkey. Children frequently stay with their families until they marry and remain the primary center of their families lives. Often, grandparents are available to care for the youngsters, allowing the parents to work. In Turkish culture, the elderly are held in high regard. It is common to witness the younger generation kissing an elder’s hand and then caressing the forehead as a token of respect.

Women’s Rights in Turkey Equal rights for women were officially added to the civil code in 2002. Therefore women now have an equal say in family matters, and property and assets are shared equally in the case of a divorce. In addition, women no longer need their husbands’ permission to work and have the right to use their maiden name after marriage if they so desire.

Turkey Family Vacations

Turks adore children and always provide a friendly welcome to our little visitors. Numerous things in Turkey will entertain children, the most popular of which is spending time on the gently shelving beaches that are great for families. Walking, horseback riding, cycling, and watersports are accessible to the more energetic.

Did you know that?

Turkey contains two of the world’s seven wonders: the Artemis Temple at Ephesus and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (present-day Bodrum)

St. Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, was born and spent his life in Turkey.

The Ark of Noah is reported to have landed on Mount Ararat in eastern Turkey.

Turkey supplies 70% of the world’s hazelnuts.

Tulips were first introduced to Holland by Turkey, which continues to supply tulips globally. Tulips are also Turkey’s national flower.

The Lydians were the first to think of and utilize coinage in Turkey 2700 years ago.

Turkey features the world’s first female Supreme Court Judge, and in 1934, women were granted the right to vote.

Religion

While most of Turkey’s population is Muslim, the country is a secular state that gives non-Muslims unrestricted freedom of worship. Aside from the call to prayer, which can be heard five times a day, it is unlikely that visitors to coastal resorts will find many indications that they are in a Muslim country. Dress appropriately when visiting a mosque and avoid going during prayer or on Fridays, the holy day. Locals and visitors alike wear carefree beachwear along the seaside. Only in smaller communities, more isolated locations, and the country’s east are dress codes more formal and traditional.

During Ramadan, residents may fast from sunrise to dusk., or Ramazan as it is known in Turkey. However, this is relatively permissive in resort areas and should have little effect on guests.

Turkey’s Public Holidays

Government offices and banks will be closed on holidays. But life in resort areas will go on as usual. As usual, as are money exchange offices, most shops and restaurants are open.

Turkey’s History

Once known as Asia Minor or Anatolia, this vast territory has a spectacular and exciting history, with settled occupancy extending back to the eighth millennium BC. Anatolia has witnessed the ascent and demise of nearly every major western civilization, including the Assyrians, Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, Greeks, and Romans. However, treasured artifacts were left behind, including what is said to be the first landscape painting ever produced, and are now on exhibit at Ankara’s Museum of Anatolian Civilisations. As a result, many museums’ artifacts are the last remaining traces of the world’s ancient civilizations.

Some of the most renowned works of art from the Hellenistic period, like the ruins of ancient Troy and the ruined villages of Lycia. However, ancient Ephesus is the most spectacular of them all. The Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final days in a modest home on the outskirts of Ephesus while St John the Evangelist came to care for her. The house has now been designated as a destination of pilgrimage for Roman Catholics by the Vatican.

King of Persia, Cyrus, captured everyone and everything in 560 CE and soon ruled over the Aegean cities. However, they were crushed by Alexander the Great 200 years later. In their quest for Asian dominance, he led the Macedonians eastward across Anatolia to India. He quickly dominated the entire Middle East, from Greece to India.

Asia Minor experienced centuries of peace after being conquered by Rome in the second century BC. It became a Christian center during the Middle Ages as part of the Byzantine Empire.

The Great Seljuk Empire, located in Persia, was Anatolia’s first true Turkish empire. This empire had a distinct culture and stunning architecture and design. Unfortunately, the Seljuk Empire fell apart rapidly, and Anatolia was divided into a series of petty emirates. The Turks progressively encroached on these territories one by one, eventually growing to form the Ottoman Empire, the most extensive empire in recent history. Until 1922, the Ottomans governed for more than six centuries. The following year, Asia Minor was incorporated into the Turkish Republic, led by Ataturk.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the driving force behind contemporary Turkey’s development. A former army soldier became Turkey’s first President, leading the country out of the ruins of the Ottoman Empire. Ataturk implemented sweeping reforms that affected every part of Turkish life. Many substantial changes occurred, notably replacing the Arabic script with Latin characters. Primary education was made mandatory, and religious law was repealed. Women were granted equal rights in custody and inheritance, and by 1934, women’s rights had been expanded to include universal suffrage.

Ataturk was and continues to be a national hero with a tremendous presence in Turkey’s long history. There will be reminders of the leader everywhere you turn in every town and village. As time passes, the country’s citizens realize Ataturk’s remarkable contribution to shaping Turkey into what it is today.

Turkish Cuisine and Drinks

The cuisine is among the best in the world.is thought to come from Turkey. A wide variety of products stimulate and entice the palette, with adequate climate zones to cultivate most items locally.

Aside from its well-known kebab dishes, there are numerous other classic Turkish cuisines. For example, meze (appetizers), for which Turkey is rightly famous, are hundreds of little meals ranging from simple combinations like cheese and melon to artistically stuffed veggies. These are offered in all Turkish restaurants and are traditionally paired with Raki, a clear anise-flavored spirit billed as Turkey’s national alcoholic beverage.

Shopping in Turkey has the most exciting and diversified assortment of items, enticing even non-shoppers.

Traditional handicrafts such as carpets, kilims, copper items, painted ceramics, jewelry, and a decent assortment of leather goods, sandals, and beachwear are popular purchases in most prominent resorts.

Opening hours are relatively flexible in tourist and coastal locations. During the summer, many businesses stay open until late in the evening, seven days a week, enabling vacationers to explore at their own pace and take a break from the heat.

It’s always worth attempting to haggle in souvenir shops and markets. Local mini markets provide basic necessities, while supermarkets near larger resorts are similar to those we are accustomed to at home. In addition, most alternatives include a weekly market where you may buy local fruit, crafts, and textiles.

Transport

One of the most acceptable ways to go around is by renting a car, which enables you to go at your own pace.

Local transportation inside towns and resorts comprises dolmus or minibusses (taxis) that run from one location to another and allow you to get on and off at any point along the route, paying based on the distance traveled.

Activities in Turkey

Turkey has a wide range of activities for both couples and families.

Popular sports include canoeing, windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing, and watersports on designated beaches in or near many significant resorts. Scuba diving is extremely popular, and the quiet, clear waters are great for beginners and inexperienced divers. In addition, walking and trekking are becoming increasingly popular as a means of exploring the countryside.

Turkey’s currency

The New Turkish Lira is the official currency of Turkey (YTL). The letter “Y” stands for “Yeni” (“New”) in Turkish, as the new notes and coins replaced the old money, which was phased out in January 2006. It can be acquired in advance from your bank, in which case we recommend ordering at least two weeks before your departure date. You can also exchange money or traveler’s checks once in Turkey. All major currencies can be easily exchanged in exchange offices, post offices, and hotels. In addition, most Turkish airports have exchange bureaus in the arrivals halls.

Currency can also be obtained via ATM/cash machines throughout Turkey as long as The machine’s symbols correspond to those on your debit or cash card. Your bank will provide you with additional information about using your card abroad. If you run out of Turkish Lira, many businesses and restaurants in coastal resorts and larger towns will accept payment in foreign currencies. However, if you intend to travel to other regions of the country, you should bring some Turkish Lira with you.

Along with coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and one New Turkish Lira, the New Turkish Lira is also available in notes of 5, 10, 20, and 100. 100 New Kurus are equal to one New Turkish Lira.

Please keep in mind that Scottish money is not recognized in Turkey. Additionally, it is essential to keep in mind that they might reject foreign currency that has been written on or shredded.

Visas and Passports

British citizens must have a regular ten-year passport valid for at least six months after returning to the UK. In addition, all minors under the age of 16 require a passport. If they were not already on their parents’ passports before October 1998.

British citizens (even infants) must purchase a £10 tourist visa upon arrival. This must be paid in cash in the form of a note. Unfortunately, the Scottish pound is not recognized in Turkey.

Complete information and application forms for a full British passport are available at significant post offices or directly from the Passport Office.

Non-UK passport holders should contact the appropriate Embassy in London for information on visa fees.

Turkey Difference in Time

Turkey is two hours ahead of the United Kingdom. However, since all airline timetables use local time, it is a good idea to reset your watch as soon as you arrive.

Turkey Vaccinations

For admission into Turkey, no immunization certificates are required. However, always check with your doctor before of travel to see whether there are any vaccinations that the Department of Health considers needed or appropriate for any specific places.

When to Leave

The peak season for visitors to Turkey’s western Aegean and Mediterranean coastal resorts is from May to October, when it is comfortable, the days are long, and it is sunny.

The peak seasons of July and August, when all activities are in full swing, see temperatures in the mid-30°C range, with early and late season lows in the mid-20°C range. It is normal to be able to swim in the water even in November because the sea is warm and inviting to swim in throughout the summer.

We have a range of properties suited for occupation in late fall, winter, and early spring in seaside locations where you may experience the changing seasons. For more information, please contact us. Heating may incur an extra price. Winter in Turkish resorts is quieter, and many facilities offered during the summer may not be available during the winter.

Questions and Answers

Can I use my phone at this point?

Turkey’s mobile phone service is excellent, except for a few more remote and/or hilly areas. However, it’s crucial to understand that even if you are connected to the local network, you must prefix your call with 00 90 and omit the first 0 of the Turkish phone number when using a British mobile phone to reach our foreign offices and employees in Turkey.

What currency will I need?

The New Turkish Lira is the official currency of Turkey (YTL). Currency can be acquired in the United Kingdom. However, we recommend ordering at least two weeks before your departure date to avoid any last-minute rushes. Once in Turkey, all major currencies can be easily exchanged at exchange offices, post offices (PTTs), and hotels. Currency can also be obtained via ATM/cash machines throughout Turkey as long as The machine’s symbols correspond to those on your debit or cash card. Your bank will provide you with additional information about using your card abroad. If you run out of Turkish Lira, foreign cash, especially pounds sterling, is often accepted in many businesses, hotels, and restaurants in tourist destinations.

Credit Cards or Travelers Cheques?

Credit cards are now commonly accepted in shops and restaurants in the main towns and resorts. However, if you intend to have a meal and then pay with a card, you should always check ahead of time. Many tiny, family-run restaurants and businesses may not accept credit cards. In addition, smaller villages and ‘off-the-beaten-path locations may not get credit cards, so keep some cash on hand.

If the symbols on the ATM or cash machine match those on your debit or cash card, you can withdraw money from them anywhere in Turkey. You should be able to get more details on using your card overseas from your bank. Banks, exchange bureaus, and most larger hotels accept travelers’ cheques for cash.

What is the voltage, and will we require adaptors?

The voltage is 220 volts. Like many European countries, wall sockets accept two rounded pin plugs. To use UK appliances, you will require an adapter plug.

Is there a difference in time?

Yes, Turkey operates on GMT + 2 (daylight saving GMT +3 is in effect from late March to late September). This means that Turkey is two hours ahead of the UK for most of the year. As soon as you arrive in Turkey, set your watch to the local time.

What should I bring?

Most western items, including holiday basics like a suntan and aftersun creams, and so on, are now available in most larger resorts and supermarkets. Bringing these goods saves time and ensures you can find your favorite brands. In addition, it’s worth packing a high-protection sunscreen, especially during peak season when temperatures can skyrocket, a wide-brimmed sun hat and mosquito repellant for your room, and a spray for yourself while you’re out at night. Take a European-type 2-pin adaptor for your electrical devices as well, as these can be difficult to obtain in Turkey. Finally, a photocopy of your passport is helpful to take with you as identification, as is a copy of your license if you drive.

Are the stores open on the day we arrive?

During the summer, supermarkets, minimarkets, and many shops remain open daily until late at night, especially in resort locations.

As a general rule, the following days and times are open:

Monday to Friday, 09.00 – 12.00 and 13.30 – 17.00.

Postal Service: (identified by yellow PTT signs) Monday through Saturday, 08.00–20.00, and Sunday, 09.00–19.00.

Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 17 p.m., is the museum’s hours of operation.

Monday to Saturday, 09.00-19.00, chemists (eczane). A duty chemist is assigned on a rota basis to remain open for 24 hours, and the specifics are placed on the front window of any chemist.

Bazaars and numerous tourist businesses are open daily from 09.00 until late in the evening, typically until 22.00 in the resorts, especially during the summer. On Sundays and earlier in the evening, regular stores may close.

Supermarkets: Most supermarkets are open daily, and the larger ones are frequently open until 22.00 during the summer, with a few being open 24 hours.

Cafés and eateries typically keep extended hours and may not close until early in the morning.

Are there any bugs?

Consequently, mosquitoes can be found in specific regions; thus, a plug-in deterrent, insect and mosquito repellents, is a good option. In addition, ants can be found in some rural locations.

How is driving in Turkey?

Other road users, as in the rest of the Mediterranean, may appear to the UK driver to be driving erratically. Although most roads are adequately maintained, some coastal or mountain roads might be small and winding. The following points should be noted:

In Turkey, traffic drives on the right; hence you must yield to the right at intersections and roundabouts (vehicles joining the roundabout have the right of way).

At all times, seatbelts must be worn.

Strict drink-driving rules are in place; the guideline is that no alcohol should be consumed if you intend to drive. Random tests are relatively prevalent, and police often impose fines.

If another car flashes its lights, it implies it is approaching, not that they are yielding to you.

You should always drive defensively, especially after dark, when you may encounter poorly illuminated vehicles, slow-moving lorries, or animals roaming the road.