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19 August 2024

What to Know Before Visiting Turkey

Before your trip to Turkey, exploring the places to visit, the culinary culture, and accommodation options in this rich cultural mosaic is important. Every corner of the country is intertwined with history and nature, especially with comfortable and luxurious accommodation options in Antalya hotels and Belek hotels. The answers to questions such as when to go to Turkey, what are the necessary visa processes, what security situations you may encounter will shape your plans. 

About Turkey

Turkey is uniquely positioned globally with its cultural diversity, historical texture, and natural beauty. Being spread across both Europe and Asia makes it a crossroads of different cultures. Turkish is the official language and has a secular structure, but traditional values are felt in many aspects of daily life. 

The economy is based on agriculture, industry, and tourism. About tourism, places like Antalya hotels and Belek hotels stand out, while historical sites and magnificent natural parks are among the places to visit in Antalya. Turkey offers visitors a variety of experiences with its unique cuisine, vibrant street culture and shopping opportunities. 

Is a Visa Required for Turkey?

The necessity of a visa for travel to Turkey varies depending on the nationality of the visitor. Citizens of many countries can enter Turkey with an electronic visa (e-Visa) for short-term tourist or business visits. The e-visa can be easily obtained through the official e-visa portal of the Republic of Turkey. The visa process is usually quick and conducted online. Additionally, some countries' citizens are exempt from visas or can get a visa on arrival. 

When to Visit Turkey?

The best times to visit Turkey vary according to the seasons and the region to be visited. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal for visiting historical places like Istanbul and Cappadocia because the weather is cooler and there are fewer tourists during these periods. 

Summer months (June-August) are preferred for coastal destinations like Antalya hotels and Belek hotels. This period is ideal for those who want to enjoy the sea, sun, and sand. Summer is also perfect for natural parks and water activities among the places to visit in Antalya. Winter months are suitable for those who want to visit ski resorts. 

Turkey's Climate

 

Due to its vast geography, Turkey's climate shows significant variations. The Black Sea Region in the north has a rainy and humid climate year-round. Central Anatolia is known for its continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. The Mediterranean climate results in mild winters and hot summers around Antalya and Belek. 

The coastal strip is one of the places to visit in Antalya, and it becomes attractive, especially in the summer months with sunny days. The Aegean Region offers pleasant and mild weather in the spring, while Southeastern Anatolia has a hot and dry climate. These diverse climate conditions in Turkey provide ideal environments for various activities throughout the year. 

Travel Costs to Turkey

Travel costs in Turkey can vary depending on the places you visit and the activities you prefer. The places to visit and tourist activities in Antalya can come with region-specific pricing. Transportation costs vary between intra-city and inter-city options, but generally, budget friendly alternatives are available. 

Accommodation expenses vary depending on the comfort level of the chosen hotel, but Antalya hotels around the places to visit in Antalya mostly offer options suitable for every budget. Food expenses range from local eateries to five-star restaurants. Turkey offers a more affordable holiday destination than many European countries. 

Is It Safe to Travel to Turkey?

Turkey is generally a safe destination for tourists, but as with any international travel, some safety precautions are recommended. Must be careful with your personal belongings, especially in big cities and tourist areas. Foreign visitors should also follow up-to-date travel guides containing various health and safety information. 

Currency in Turkey

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL), which is also known by the international currency code TRY. Shopping, dining, hotels, and all other commercial transactions within Turkey are generally conducted in Turkish Lira.  

Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, while cash is more commonly used in smaller towns or rural areas. Currency exchange services are offered by exchange offices, banks, and some hotels. 

Intercity Transportation in Turkey

Various options provide intercity transportation in Turkey. Buses are the most common and affordable means of reaching every point in Turkey. Daily buses run between most cities and towns, which are comfortable and usually air-conditioned. Among train options, high-speed trains (YHT) offer fast travel between major cities like Ankara, Istanbul, Eskişehir, and Konya. 

Domestic flights provide a fast alternative between major cities, especially preferred for long distances. Some tourist regions also offer ferry services for sea transportation. 

Taxis in Turkey

Using a taxi is a common and practical option for urban transportation in Turkey. Official taxis are mostly yellow, clearly marked with taxi signs, and equipped with taximeters. Taximeters are started at the beginning of the journey, and the fare is calculated based on the distance traveled.  

You can also call a taxi through various mobile applications that have become popular recently. Taxis generally accept cash payments, but some taxis in major cities also accept credit cards. 

Places to Visit in Turkey

Turkey offers various historical, cultural, and natural beauties to its visitors. Here are the most popular places to visit in Turkey: 

  • Antalya: With historical and natural beauties like Düden Waterfalls, Kaleiçi, and Antalya Museum, it is the most popular holiday route in the country. 

  • Istanbul: Hosts world-renowned historical structures like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. 

  • Cappadocia: Famous for its fairy chimneys, underground cities, and hot air balloon tours. 

  • Pamukkale: Notable for its travertines and the ancient city of Hierapolis. 

  • Ephesus: Open to visitors with its well-preserved ancient Roman city ruins. 

  • Trabzon: Prominent with natural beauties like Sumela Monastery and Uzungöl. 

  • Bodrum: Famous as a summer vacation spot. 

Turkish Cuisine

The fertile lands of Anatolia and the interaction of various cultures have shaped Turkey's culinary culture. Famous kebab varieties are prepared using each region's unique cooking techniques and ingredients, and they are considered one of Turkey's most renowned flavors.  

Sweets like baklava are enriched with thin layers of pastry and plenty of locally produced pistachios, giving them a unique taste. 

Mezzes are an indispensable part of the tables, enriched with various olive oil dishes and seafood. Döner is popular as a fast and delicious street food. Other traditional dishes like lahmacun reflect the diversity and regional character of Turkish cuisine. 

Where to Stay in Turkey?

To make your accommodation experience in Turkey unforgettable, Calista Luxury Resort, surrounded by the warm sands and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean in Belek, is an excellent choice.  

Calista Luxury Resort stands out among Antalya hotels and is notable for its easy access to the places to visit in Antalya. Known for its accommodation intertwined with nature and emphasis on sustainable tourism, the time you spend at Calista Luxury Resort offers a comfortable holiday and an environmentally conscious experience. 

Restricted Internet Sites in Turkey

Many platforms used worldwide can also be used in Turkey. But, PayPal cannot be used in Turkey due to banking regulations. This situation necessitates searching for alternative online shopping and international payment methods. 

How to Dress in Turkey?

Turkey's dress style shows diversity, where modern and traditional elements coexist, allowing everyone to freely choose their clothing style. Clothes that can be worn anywhere in the world can also be worn in Turkey. In tourist places like Antalya, accessories such as hats and sunglasses are common to protect from the sun. 

Shopping in Turkey

Turkey offers a wide variety of shopping experiences. In traditional markets like Istanbul's historic Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, you can find spices, handicrafts, and authentic jewelry. Modern shopping centers are abundant in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, hosting international brands and local boutiques.  

In Anatolian cities, small shops selling local products and weekly markets are popular. Remember to bargain while shopping in Turkey, as bargaining is a part of this culture and can significantly affect prices. 

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