Travel guide to Turkey: Everything you need to know about tourism in Turkey

What to do in Turkey?

Known as the crossroads of multiple civilizations, Turkey has many stories to tell. If you love time travel, the adventure you are looking for can begin in Ankara. It has a mixture between the exotic and the traditional, and much more to offer than a link between East and West.

The gentleness of the Turkish people fills the walks with charm, which can start in the most populated city, Istanbul. Known as the Ancient Constantinople, it was the capital of the Roman Empire and has a fascinating history since 667 BC, with one part in Europe and the other in Asia. A city that was recognized in 2010 as the European capital of culture, with access to 2 seas (Marmara and Black Sea), it is undoubtedly one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world.

Getting to know the famous Bosphorus (Istanbul Strait), exploring the towns where the Black Sea ends, discovering the beaches of Bodrum (known as the "paradise of eternal blue") or the famous Pamukkale "Turkish cotton castle", are just some of the most emblematic sites that you can visit.

Tourist Places In Turkey

Explore Istanbul

The city of Istanbul has an important historical area (declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO). It is known as Sultanahmet and gathers the main historical sites, such as: Topkapi Palace, central axis of the former Ottoman Empire. It has 700,000 square meters, distributed in a Harem room (residence of the sultan and his 600 women), a treasure room (keeps objects with emeralds and exotic diamonds), as well as stables and a weapons room.

The imposing Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) built in 1617, is the most important mosque in Istanbul. Visitors have the opportunity to admire the 20,000 tiles on top, as well as the 7 minarets on the outside.

In addition, the Haghia Sophia church (Hagia Sophia), known for being the greatest legacy of Byzantine art and a historical emblem of Istanbul. The architecture stands out in the highest part of the city, and it has an impressive dome 30 meters of diameter. While inside, the mosaics in honor of the Emperor Constantine stand out.

The Galata Tower is also one of the historical symbols of the city, built over 650 years ago, it is one of the oldest towers in the world. It is famous for offering one of the most attractive panoramic views of the city.

The historical area also has the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered bazaar in the world. It has characteristic architecture, gardens, street cafes and the famous carpet sales.

Balloon flights in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is 350 km from Ankara (4 hours by car approx.), The region is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a landscape that is the result of natural erosion for billions of years (ancient volcanic area), you can see rock formations up to 45 meters high (known as fairy chimneys).

In addition to the natural heritage, Cappadocia is world famous for hot air balloon excursions. They allow you to enjoy a 360 ° view of the area from 30 meters high, you can fly in a balloon in Cappadocia for at least 1 hour, with the possibility of watching the sunrise (there are 2 morning flights, it is possible to make a reservation). Some companies offer transportation service from and to hotels in the city.

Visit Pamukkale

Pamukkale is also considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it is west of Ankara (484 km). The famous thermal pools of Pamukkale are known as "Cotton Castle", the extraordinary natural phenomenon was shaped by the hot springs that flow in the center from the ancient city of Hierapolis. These thermal conditions are due to geological phenomena, which formed thick white layers of limestone and travertine. When they fall simulate the effect of frozen water in the form of a waterfall. The water temperature (in the places allowed for tourists) is around 36 ° C and they have high levels in minerals.

Also, another very busy place is Cleopatra's Pool, just a 13-minute drive from Pamukkale. It is in the hot spring area, and holds the ruins of an old pool built by Cleopatra (according to local history).

Cruise the Sea - Bosphorus Strait

The Bosporus is a strait that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of ​​Marmara, it also separates the city of Istanbul on a European and an Asian side. In addition, it has 3 modern bridges: the Sultan Selim Bridge (to the north, near the Black Sea), the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and the Bosphorus Bridge. It even has a modern 1.8 km submarine railway tunnel.

The Bosphorus cruises allow you to see some palaces (such as the Ciragan and Dolmabahçe), the tour lasts a minimum of one and a half hours. However, some routes take longer for tourists to get to know the town of Bogaz Iskelesi.

The Bosphorus cruises originate from the docks on both the European (Kabataş, Besiktas, Karakoy and Eminonu) and Asian (Uskudar and Kadikoy) sides. Generally, cruises have 3 departure times: 10:35, 12:00 and 13:35, and it is recommended to arrive at the pier at least 15 minutes before.

Enjoy the Mediterranean beaches

Knowing Turkey is much more than looking at historical sites, its geography extends to the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, where some of the best beaches in Europe are located. The best beaches in the Mediterranean are between the cities of Antalya and Dalyan, a region that allows you to enjoy the natural landscape, nightlife and villages with traditional architecture. The most famous beaches are described below:

• Iztuzu Beach: it is a 19-minute drive from the city of Dalyan and 28 km from Dalaman Airport. It is 5 km long and is also known as “Playa de las Tortugas” (it is a natural refuge for Caretta turtles). The beach also serves as a strip that separates the Mediterranean Sea from the Dalyan River delta.

• Patara Beach: It is 73 km from Fethiye and is known as one of the best beaches in Turkey (even the longest). It is an archaeological zone and does not have buildings, therefore, it preserves its natural state. The closest town is Gelemis (2.4 km).

• Cirali Beach: it is a beach that also maintains its virgin state (protected area as a nature reserve), it is also close to the Olympos ruins (only 20 km by car). It is ideal to relax in its calm waters.

• Antalya - Konyaalti Beach: the city of Antalya has modern urbanism, it offers 2 main beaches: Lara and Konyaalti. It also has the famous Aquarium and an always active nightlife.

Try Turkish cuisine

Turkish gastronomy is the best representation of historical and cultural heritage, trying Turkish cuisine suggests an exotic and varied experience. Among the specialties of the region, the famous Kebab (roast meat) stands out, it is traditionally cooked on a vertical grill. Lüfer is also a traditional Turkish food dish, also known as Bosphorus blue fish. However, there are a wide variety of dishes, drinks and desserts that offer a delight to lovers of international cuisine.

Restaurants in Istanbul offer varied and traditional cuisine, Nar Lokanta (located in the historical area) is one of the best known for keeping typical ingredients. There are also restaurants such as the Deraliye, which is distinguished by renewing traditional recipes without altering its essence.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

The spring and autumn seasons (between April, May and September to mid-November) are the best time to visit Turkey. In this season the temperature is pleasant (there is no excess of cold or heat), the influx of people is regular and offers a better opportunity to get discounts on airline and hotel tickets.

It is considered high season between May - September, tourist sites have a greater influx of visitors and prices for lodging and transport are higher. Also, if you have a tight budget and are looking for the best deals, the low season is more convenient (between the months of November and March). However, it is necessary to be prepared for low temperatures and humidity.

How much does it cost to travel to Turkey? Turkey Tour Package Options

The tour packages are an excellent option to know Turkey, they can be customized, they allow you to choose the hotel category and add nights. The cost varies according to the length of stay and the places to visit:

• Istanbul, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia and Bosphorus Tour Package: Includes accommodation for 4 days - 3 nights (taxes and fees), visits to the city of Istanbul (with lunch), visits to the Grand Bazaar and a walk along the Bosphorus. It also includes tickets to the historical sites of the tour, as well as the necessary transfers.
• Tour package Istanbul, Troy, Canakkale, Pergamon, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Izmir, Ankara and more. Includes accommodation for 10 days - 9 nights (taxes and fees): 3 nights accommodation in Istanbul, 1 night accommodation in each of the mentioned cities (in a 4-star hotel with half board). It also includes tickets to the historical sites of the tour, as well as the necessary transfers.

All our packages to Turkey

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Security in Turkey is considered a medium risk for tourists (according to international statistical agencies), however, it is one of the destinations preferred by tourists from all over the world (according to data from the Turkish government, during 2019 the influx of tourists reaching 43 million visitors).

As in any part of the planet, common sense is an element to keep in mind when traveling in big cities like Istanbul. Also, worrying about an unpredictable event (which can happen even in the country where we live) is unnecessary when you have to enjoy the experience.

Entry requirements to Turkey

Argentine citizens (as well as most South American countries) do not need a visa to enter Turkey in stays of up to 90 days. Therefore, the document required to enter is the passport with at least 6 months of validity. For countries that need a visa, the process can be done online on the website offered by the Turkish government.

At greca you can find travel packages to Turkey and combined packages to Turkey and Greece at the best price and modify them to suit you!