Turkey
Discover the Magic of Turkey: Where East Meets West
Forget everything you thought you knew about travel. Turkey is a whole different world, a place that’ll ignite all your senses. Imagine the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul – a maze of colours, the air thick with spices, the call to prayer echoing through the centuries-old walls. Or picture sailing the Turquoise Coast, so clear you can see ancient ruins beneath the water, and the sun glinting off whitewashed villages. And oh, the smell of Turkish coffee will follow you everywhere!
This is a place where East and West collide in the most beautiful way. You’ve got incredible mosques like the Hagia Sophia, Byzantine churches turned Ottoman masterpieces, and then there’s Cappadocia – like something out of a fairytale, with valleys full of those weird and wonderful ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations. And whether you’re in a bustling city or a tiny mountain village, you’ll be blown away by how friendly and welcoming Turkish people are.
This blog by Northern Wanderers is your ticket to getting off the beaten track and finding the heart of Turkey. Think of it as those recommendations from the cool friend who’s been there and knows all the best spots. Let’s start planning!
Best Time To Visit
It depends on what you want to do! Here’s the lowdown:
Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October): My top picks! Temperatures are pleasant, the crowds are smaller than in summer, and it’s perfect for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities without the intense heat.
Summer (June-August): Beach season in full swing! Great if you want to soak up the sun on the coast, but expect crowds and higher prices, especially in popular spots. Inland, it can get seriously hot.
Winter (November-March): If you don’t mind the cold, it’s a quieter, cheaper time to visit. Istanbul dusted with snow has a certain charm. Plus, if you love skiing, Turkey has some decent resorts!
Remember: Turkey’s a big country, so the weather varies a lot depending on where you’re headed. Always check the forecast for your specific destinations!
What To Expect
Capital: Ankara
Population: 86 million (2023)
Language: The official language of Turkey is Turkish. However, you will also find that Kurmanji, Arabic, English, and Zazaki are also widely spoken.
Currency: The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: You can use your credit and debit cards in most places in Turkey, especially Visa and Mastercard. American Express might only work in fancy hotels or restaurants. For market stalls and smaller shops, it’s best to have some cash on hand. Don’t worry, finding an ATM is easy – just try to stick to the ones attached to actual banks. They’re safer, and you’ll usually get a better exchange rate compared to those random standalone ATMs.
Plugs: In Turkey, the standard plug is type F, the standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Understandably, recent news about Turkey might have you a bit worried about safety. While it’s always smart to stay up-to-date on travel advisories (check your government’s website!), popular tourist destinations like Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia remain generally safe for travelers. Just use the same common sense precautions you would at home – be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash valuables, etc. It’s always a good idea to check current travel recommendations before you go, as situations can change.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Turkey
(Note: Turkey is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
This labyrinth of a market is a feast for the senses. Bargain for carpets, spices, and colourful ceramics, soak in the lively atmosphere, and maybe grab a Turkish coffee to keep you going.
This is pure magic! Soaring over those otherworldly rock formations at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. Feels like you’re on another planet.
Walk the same marble streets as ancient Romans in these incredibly well-preserved ruins. Imagine the bustling port city it once was – it’ll send shivers down your spine.
4. Bathe Like a Sultan in a Turkish Bath (Hamam):
Scrub, steam, massage…it’s a super relaxing way to experience a centuries-old tradition. A must-do for feeling rejuvenated after busy days of sightseeing!
5. Feast on Turkish Delights:
From grilled kebabs and fresh seafood to sweet, sticky baklava and strong Turkish coffee, your tastebuds are in for a treat. Don’t be afraid to try little hole-in-the-wall places – that’s often where you find the best food.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Turkey and reasons to visit Turkey.
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Travel Resources
*Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.