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TURKEY

DESTINATION GUIDE

As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real Turkey in a way like no other. Spilling across the border of Asia and Europe, few countries in the world hold the remarkable blend of cultures found here. Our tours through Turkey take you on a voyage of connection and discovery, as we learn the secrets of the spice markets and visiting religious sites with beauty to rival the Eiffel Tower. We'll move beyond the lively city of Istanbul to find otherworldly landscapes that will stir the soul. In Pamukkale, we'll soak in mineral-dense hot springs that cascade over white limestone pool, while in Cappadocia, a sky of hot air balloons drift above an arid valley of peculiar shapes and caves. From the Archaeology Museum to an encounter with belly dancers, the culture we connect with in Turkey is as alluring as a slice of baklava.Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Triploves Highlights.

"It is always my pleasure to introduce my country to our guests. Trafalgar trips in Turkey, the cradle of civilisations, offer not only deep history, wonderful museums, great cities, amazing architecture but breathtaking natural beauty as well"

Barcin,

Travel Director

Turkey at a

glance

Currency

Swiss franc

Winter avg temp

2°C

Summer avg temp

20°C

Time Zone

GMT +2

Capital City

Bern

Language

German, Italian

Good Morning

Bonjour

Good evening

Bonsoir

Image by Annie Spratt
Image by Emre Gencer
Image by Meriç Dağlı

Learn the secrets of the spice markets, visit stunning religious sites, wander lively Instanbul, then discover otherworldly landscapes of hot springs and hot air balloons. From belly dancers to baklava, our expert Trafalgar Travel Directors will take you on a remarkable voyage through Turkey.

Image by Fatih Yürür
Image by Ataberk Güler

Our top 3 things to do in Turkey

From the otherworldly hot springs of Pamukkale to the balloon covered valleys of Cappadocia, these are just some of the pinch-me moments to experience on our trips to Turkey.

Dine listening to Turkish folk and watching belly dancing

Slip into the Karsilama rhythm for a night of Turkish dance and folk music. The seductive art of belly dancing originated in Egypt but has found an energetic form here in Turkey. Take to the stage and try your hand and hips at these skillful moves. 

Relax in the water of Pamukkale's Cotton Castle Springs

Found in River Menderes valley, the Cotton Castle Springs of Pamukkale will leave you in awe of Mother Nature. Soak in the steaming waters of the travertine terraces that are known for their dense mineral content, allowing plenty of time to photograph the milky blue pools and the snow-like setting.

See the House of Virgin Mary at Mt. Koressos

A humble stone house dating back to the Apostolic Age, the significance of Mt. Koressos's House of Virgin Mary sits within its Catholic mythology. The site where Jesus's mother was said to spend her last days on earth, this shrine attracts pilgrims from near and far.

Best museums in Turkey

Ready yourself for dazzling cathedrals, contemporary artworks and archaeological marvels on your Turkey trip. Trafalgar will take you under the skin of this country through its soul-stirring museum collection.

Hagia Sophia

A 6th-century masterpiece showing the opulence of distant eras, Hagia Sophia is a former cathedral transformed into a mosque before finding its current form as a museum. Stare upwards in awe of dome ceilings and ornate chandeliers before stepping outside to take in the external beauty from various angles.

Istanbul Modern

Contemporary Turkish artists take the stage in the museum of Istanbul Modern. Housed in a former maritime warehouse, the building now features a cinema, library, gift shop and restaurant with views of the Bosphorus River. Find hours of entertainment within these progressive walls.

Istanbul Archeology Museum

Connect with an unfathomable depth of history in Turkey's Archaeology Museums. Featuring three buildings, the collections found here unlock the ancient orient and showcase the finest in Islamic art. Allow a whole day to get lost in the depths of distant eras.

Best food in Turkey

A tantalising blend between Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, we'll uncover the very best of Turkish food. From baklava to cheesy pides, with many glasses of hot tea in between.

Baklava

Pistachios, pastry and honey come together to create the delicious sweet of baklava. Connected to stories of Sultans and layered with history, sample this treat many times over in the name of culture. Find many moreish trays in any Turkish food market.

Balik Ekmek

Balik Ekmek is a popular street food of oily fish wedged between two layers of soft Turkish bread. Traditionally dished up on a boat direct from the fisherman, find this lunch staple and enjoy it while walking along the Bosporus River.

Pide

Fill your tour of Turkey with copious amounts of the country's famous bread. Typically filled with stringy cheese and spinach, the pie meets pizza snack perfectly compliments a cup of sweet Turkish tea or a stroll around the city.

A thirst for adventure

Spare suitcase space

A Turkish Hammam scrub is a ritual you need to enjoy when visiting this country. Often teamed with communal bathing and occasionally requiring full nudity, pack your confidence to enjoy this tradition that is truly doing as the locals do.

Baklava, tea, carpets and jewellery are just some of the goods that will entice you when shopping in Turkey. Leave space for the many treats and trinkets you will want to take home.

Modest clothing

Turkey is a religious and somewhat traditional country. Pack modest full-length clothing so you can respectfully enjoy momentous religious sights.

Old swimwear

Dense in minerals, Turkey's Pamukkale's Cotton Castle Springs may aggravate your swimming clothes should you take a dip. Pack something old and submerge until your heart is content.

A small digital camera

The picturesque lanes, neoclassical architecture and stunning landscapes mean you’ll be walking a lot to soak it all up. Bring along your own reusable water bottle and stay hydrated the eco-friendly way.

What to pack for Turkey

Image by Alice Donovan Rouse

Other things to know before you go

Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.

Road Trip Adventures

Slide into your seat, grip the wheel, start the engine, and hit the open road. From Norway to South Africa, the tundra to the rainforest, there is no limit to what you can reach with four wheels and an adventurous spirit. The road trip is no longer a means to get from point A to point B in your country; it crosses borders into new places, allowing for pure freedom in exciting destinations. Measure your next journey in viewpoints, road signs, and the people you'll meet along the way!

Guide to Turkey Visa Application

Learn about the types of visas and the step by step process of obtaining a visa for Turkey and quarantine regulations in this comprehensive guide.

  This includes types of visa applications, what to declare, and what is prohibited.

Keep in mind these handy tips for a smart, stress-free, and on-time visa application experience! 

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