33 Key Things to Know Before Going to Turkey + Scams to Avoid

Planning your trip and wondering about the things to know before going to Turkey?

I’ve got you covered.

After spending three weeks exploring many parts of this fascinating country—exploring cities, relaxing along the Turkish Riviera, and even eloping in Cappadocia—I’ve picked up some of the best Turkey travel tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Trust me, proper research makes all the difference when visiting a dream destination like Turkey.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know for a smooth trip to Turkey. From local customs and visa rules to scams to avoid, I’m sharing everything I wish I’d known before my visit.

You’ll also get insights into the country’s cities, ancient ruins, and must-see landmarks.

By the end of this post, you’ll have all the top tips to plan your trip without worry!

Things To Know Before Going to Turkey

I’ve got some of the best turkey travel tips to share so you can have a safe and stress-free trip.

Stick with me, and you’ll be totally prepared to explore everything this amazing place has to offer!

1. Don’t Let The Media Scare You

Don’t let the news discourage you from visiting Turkey. Sure, Turkey has gotten some bad press in recent years, but the truth is, this beautiful country has so much to offer.

From its rich history to breathtaking landscapes, traveling to Turkey is an experience you don’t want to miss.

The tourism industry here is thriving, and locals genuinely want to show you the best of their country.

Of course, it’s always important to stay informed and take responsibility for your own safety, but with a little preparation, you’ll see just how much Turkey offers to visitors.

It’s a destination that will leave you in awe, and one you’ll likely want to return to again and again.

2. Encounter the friendliest people

Let me tell you—Turkish hospitality is like nothing I’ve ever experienced.

Most locals are genuinely kind and will go out of their way to help you, often dropping everything just to lend a hand. And they do it without expecting anything in return. In fact, when I tried to offer money for their kindness, they politely refused every time.

One of the most heartwarming moments (among many) during my trip was when my husband and I were invited into a family’s home. They kept piling food and drinks in front of us, curious about where we were from and our local customs.

The women were fascinated by my hair, and they even wanted to take pictures with me! It wasn’t about pushing their beliefs—they just wanted us to feel welcome and to show us that our US news portrays them in a bad way.

Having traveled to 23+ countries, I can confidently say the people of Turkey are some of the warmest and most hospitable I’ve ever met.

Forget what you see on the news—these interactions will completely change the way you view this incredible country.

3. Homelessness Isn’t Really a Thing In Turkey

One thing that really stood out to me about Turkish culture is how deeply rooted their sense of community is.

Our private transfer driver explained that homelessness is virtually unheard of in Turkey because the community always steps in to help. If someone falls on hard times, neighbors, friends, or family will rally together to provide support, often taking them into their own homes.

It’s such a beautiful example of how Turkish culture prioritizes compassion and care for one another.

This strong sense of community is just one more reason why Turkey left such a lasting impression on me.

4. Turkish People Like to Stare

Don’t be surprised if you catch people staring at you—it’s totally normal in Turkey. Especially when you’re outside the big cities, you might feel like you’re being watched a lot.

It’s not meant to be rude or offensive. It’s just a cultural difference and a sign of curiosity. So, take it in stride and flash them a friendly smile!

5. Familiarize Yourself With The Turkish Visa Rules

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, checking the visa requirements is a must.

Turkey requires visitors from 40 countries to obtain a visa, but thankfully, the process is quick and easy online.

Not sure if you need one? There’s an official list that breaks down which countries have visa-free agreements, who needs a visa, how long you can stay, and more.

💡 Pro Tip: Be careful when applying online—there are a lot of third-party sites charging inflated fees for visa services. Stick to the official government website for the lowest price and peace of mind. It’s straightforward, affordable, and the safest way to get your visa sorted.

6. Currency in Turkey

The Turkish Lira is the official currency, and you’ll find plenty of currency exchange offices in Istanbul and other cities.

If possible, avoid exchanging money at the Istanbul airport—the rates there are much higher than in the city.

ATMs are everywhere and often give a better exchange rate than cash exchange offices. Just double-check with your bank about international fees before you go.

7. Many People Speak English

I was pleasantly surprised by how widely spoken English is in Turkey, especially in tourist places. From hotel staff to shop owners and tour guides, most people you’ll interact with speak enough English to help you get by.

That said, if you venture outside of the main attractions, you’ll find less English and more reliance on the Turkish language.

It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases (more on that later) to make your interactions easier and show respect for the local culture!

8. Learn A Few Words Of The Language

Knowing a few basic Turkish phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals and showing respect for their culture.

You don’t need to be fluent—apps like Google Translate can help—but learning these keywords and phrases will make your trip a lot easier and more fun:

• Hello: Merhaba (Meh-rha-bah)
• Good Morning: Günaydın (Guh-Ny-Dun)
• Please: Lütfen (Loot-fen)
• Yes: Evet (Eh-vet)
• No: Hayır (Hah-yur)
• Thank You: Teşekkürler (Tesh-eh-kur-Ler)
• I’m Sorry: Pardon (Par-don)
• How Much?: Ne kadar? (Neh-ka-dar)

9. Wifi is Limited

Wifi is hit or miss in Turkey, especially once you’re outside the big cities. To avoid the frustration, I highly recommend getting an eSIM with at least 4 GB of data before your trip.

I used Airalo’s eSIM and found it was super easy to set up and much simpler than trying to figure out a SIMcard once I arrived.

Having an international phone plan ready to go before you even land makes life so much easier when you’re traveling!

You’ll have reliable data for maps, translations, and staying in touch without the headache of finding a local option. It’s definitely worth it!

10. Use Tour Guides For Excursions

When visiting Turkey, hiring a private tour guide is one of the best decisions you can make.

They’re surprisingly affordable, and the benefits are huge—you’ll get more detailed history, the chance to ask all your questions, and access to hidden gems you’d never find on your own.

Our private guide took us to the oldest mosque in Istanbul, which only the locals know about and very few tourists ever get to see. We had it all to ourselves!

Guides in Turkey speak excellent English and are genuinely passionate about sharing their country with you.

Plus, having a private guide gives you the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to your interests.

💡 Pro Tip: You’re far less likely to get scammed or hassled in big cities when you’re with a guide.

11. Understand Turkey is a Huge Country

Turkey is a huge country, and the distances between popular destinations can be deceiving.

While road trips or buses are an option, they often take hours, especially if you’re crossing regions.

The good news is that domestic flights in Turkey are incredibly affordable and a much faster way to get around.

If you’re short on time, skip the long drives and hop on a quick plane ride. It’s the easiest way to make the most of your trip and explore more of this incredible country without spending all day in transit.

12. You Can Visit Both Europe and Asia Continents in One Visit

One of the coolest things about Turkey is that it’s the only country in the world to span two continents.

With a quick and inexpensive ferry ride, you can cross from Europe to Asia (or vice versa) in minutes.

No other country offers this kind of unique experience, making Turkey a must-visit destination for travelers who want to check off two continents in one trip!

13. Istanbul’s Transit System Is Amazing

When visiting Turkey, I was seriously impressed by Istanbul’s public transportation.

It’s affordable, easy to navigate, and saves you from the chaos of city traffic.

For just 6 Lira, you can get a reloadable Istanbulkart, which works across subways, buses, trams, and ferries.

💡 Pro Tip: One card can be used by multiple people, so you and your travel buddy can share it!

14. Give Yourself Time to Explore Istanbul And Its History

Istanbul surprised me in the best way—it’s even more incredible than I expected.

You’ll want to set aside at least three days to really experience the city.

There’s so much to see, from the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia to the bustling Grand Bazaar and Spice Market.

And don’t forget the food! Sampling authentic Turkish dishes adds a whole new layer to exploring the city. And the best way to really experience Turkish food is by taking an Istanbul Food Tour!

I’ve had the best food tour of my travels so far in Istanbul! If there’s one tour you can’t miss, it’s this food tour!

Istanbul is a captivating destination with a fascinating history that will leave you wanting more, even if you’re not usually a history buff. It’s one of those places that just stays with you.

15. Etiquette When Visiting Mosques

When traveling to Turkey and visiting iconic sites like the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sofia, it’s important to respect the local customs.

Women are required to wear a hijab (headscarf) to cover their hair when entering mosques.

If you’re unsure how to wear it, a quick YouTube search can teach you how to wrap it correctly.

💡 Pro Tip: No need to pack one—beautiful scarves are sold everywhere in Turkey for a reasonable price, or you can rent one at the entrance of many religious sites.

16. You’ll Hear the Call of Prayer Several Times a Day

The first time I heard the call to prayer, I was so moved I actually cried.

It’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful sounds, especially when it echoes across the city at night.

Whether you’re in Istanbul or a smaller town, it’s a daily reminder of Turkey’s deep cultural and spiritual roots—an experience that stays with you long after your trip.

💡 Pro Tip: If you are a light sleeper, I recommend you pack earplugs with you! And download a white noise app on your phone to drown out the late-night and early-morning calls.

17. Visit More Than One Place If You Can

Turkey is a treasure trove of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and cool cities.

If you have the time, don’t limit yourself to just one spot—there are so many incredible travel destinations to explore.

Here are three of my favorites that showcase the best of what Turkey has to offer:

Istanbul

You can’t skip Istanbul—it’s such an incredible city.

I spent three days there, and honestly, that’s the least amount of time you’ll want to spend there to really experience it.

The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, and Grand Bazaar are just the beginning. The city is full of history, but even if you’re not into that, there are so many unique things to do in Istanbul that make it unforgettable.

It’s got this amazing mix of old-world charm and modern life that you just have to see for yourself.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia was the main reason I wanted to visit Turkey, and it absolutely didn’t disappoint.

It’s like stepping into a fairy tale—romantic, unique, and just magical.

I spent three days here, and I’d definitely recommend at least that much time, especially if you want to do a hot air balloon ride. Watching the balloons float over those crazy rock formations at sunrise is something you’ll never forget.

There are so many amazing things to do in Cappadocia, from exploring the underground cities to hiking through the valleys.

If you’re looking for a place that feels totally different from anywhere else, Cappadocia is it.

Turkish Riviera

The Turkish Riviera is such a special place, and Kaş is the perfect spot to base yourself. I spent five days there exploring the turquoise coast, and it was amazing.

Kaş is this cute seaside village with such a chill vibe. It’s great for day trips to nearby islands and stunning beaches.

If you’re up for an adventure, don’t miss paragliding in Oludeniz, which is one of the most unforgettable experiences along the coast.

Honestly, sitting on the waterfront with a drink in hand was still one of my favorite moments—it’s the kind of place where you feel like you could stay forever.

18. Pack Clothing For Weather Changes

Turkey’s weather can vary a lot depending on where you are and the time of year, so it’s smart to pack for all kinds of conditions.

The coastal areas, like the Turkish Riviera, tend to be warm and sunny, while places like Cappadocia can get chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.

If you’re visiting Istanbul, expect a mix—it can be warm during the day but cooler at night.

With so many different climates across the country, layering is key. Bring lightweight clothes for warmer regions, a jacket for cooler areas, and don’t forget comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll do!

19. Dress Modestly To Avoid Attention

Turkey is one of the most Westernized countries in the Middle East, and you’ll see a wide range of clothing styles, especially in Istanbul.

Some women wear traditional Muslim attire, while others mix modest outfits with hijabs, and many dress in typical Western clothing.

You’ll even find women who don’t follow any traditional clothing norms at all, especially in bigger cities. It’s a blend of styles, reflecting the freedom Turkish women have to express themselves.

That said, as a visitor, it’s always a good idea to dress modestly—both out of respect for local customs and to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

While Turkey is quite relaxed in many areas, covering your shoulders and knees is appreciated, especially when you’re visiting religious or rural areas.

If you’re wondering how to strike the right balance, check out my guide on What to wear in Turkey as a woman for practical tips.

20. Take Off Your Shoes At The Doorstep

Always take off your shoes before going into someone’s home or visiting religious sites in Turkey.

It’s just what you do there, and most places will even have a spot by the door for your shoes.

Oh, and you must have socks on! No bare feet.

21. Don’t Refuse Food Or Tea If Visiting Someone

Refusing food or tea in Turkey is considered rude, so it’s best to accept the hospitality.

When we visited, we were offered so much food and endless cups of tea. It’s a genuine expression of warmth and generosity.

Even if you’re not hungry, taking a small bite or sip shows your gratitude for their kindness.

22. Understand The Tea Situation 

Tea is life in Turkey—it’s offered everywhere, all the time.

I’m not a tea drinker, and I probably drank more tea during my trip to Turkey than I have in my entire life! My favorite was the apple tea—it’s sweet and delicious.

Here’s the catch: shop owners will often offer you tea, and since it’s considered rude to refuse, you’ll probably end up sitting there for a while. And that’s when they start bringing out all their beautiful items for sale.

Before you know it, you’re sipping tea and feeling obligated to buy something just to escape! It’s all part of the experience, but keep this in mind when you accept that cup of tea.

23. Try The Local Food

Food is one of the best parts of traveling, and Turkish cuisine is definitely worth exploring. It’s hearty and comforting.

Some must-tries are Turkish breakfast, Turkish coffee, and, of course, Turkish delights.

But if I’m being honest, by the end of our trip, my husband and I were seriously craving a cheeseburger. A lot of the flavors are similar, so it can start to feel repetitive after a while.

We really enjoyed the seafood along the coast, though—it was a nice change of pace.

But what gave me a much better appreciation for Turkish food was taking a guided food tour in Istanbul. It was such a great way to explore the city’s street food, learn about the history behind the dishes, and even pick up a few words in the language.

If you can, start your trip with a food tour—it’ll help you feel confident about what to order the rest of your trip!

24. Public Bathrooms May Not Be What You’re Used To

Just a heads-up: many public bathrooms in Turkey are squat toilets—a hole in the ground. It’s not as bad as it sounds, but it might take a little getting used to.

💡 Pro Tip: Bring your own toilet paper or wet wipes. Many of the public bathrooms didn’t have any. Also, don’t flush the toilet paper—it’s common to dispose of it in the bin provided instead.

25. Bring A Travel Adapter

Turkey uses Type C and Type F outlets with a standard voltage of 220V.

If your devices aren’t compatible, make sure to pack a universal travel adapter so you can keep everything charged.

26. Don’t Drink The Tap Water

As a rule, tap water in Turkey isn’t safe to drink.

Stick to bottled water, which is widely available and affordable. It’s the easiest way to avoid any potential issues and stay hydrated during your travels.

27. Don’t Visit Turkey During Ramadan

While Turkey is an amazing place to visit any time of year, Ramadan might not be the best choice if it’s your first trip.

During Ramadan, many people fast from sunrise to sunset, and a lot of restaurants and cafes are closed or have limited hours, especially outside tourist areas.

The slower pace and fewer dining options might not give you the full experience you’re hoping for.

28. Do Visit Turkey At The End of Ramadan

On the flip side, the end of Ramadan—called Eid al-Fitr—is a completely different story.

We happened to arrive on the last day of Ramadan (completely unplanned), and it was the biggest celebration I’ve ever seen.

The streets were alive with music, dancing, eating, and drinking—people were so happy, and they wanted us to celebrate with them. It was sensory overload in the best way possible!

Think of it like Easter for Muslims—after a month of fasting, they’re finally able to feast, and feast they do!

Fair warning: Istanbul gets absolutely wild during this time. Everyone is off work, and the streets are packed with people partying late into the night. If you’re up for crowds and chaos, it’s an incredible experience and truly one for the bucket list.

29. You Will See Lot’s of Stray Cats and Dogs

Turkey is full of stray cats and dogs, but they’re not your typical strays—they’re incredibly well cared for.

The Turkish people love their animals and make sure they’re vaccinated, neutered, and fed. You’ll even notice notches in their ears, which signify they’ve been vaccinated and spayed or neutered.

Don’t hesitate to pet or play with them—they’re super friendly and always up for attention.

30. Learn How To Haggle

Haggling is a way of life in Turkey, so get ready to bargain!

Most shops won’t have price tags, and the shop owner will start with a high price, fully expecting you to negotiate. The goal is to meet somewhere in the middle where you both feel satisfied.

Once you get the hang of it, haggling can actually be a lot of fun—it’s like a friendly game.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t show too much excitement about an item until you’ve agreed on a price. Acting disinterested can help you get a better deal. Also, it’s a good idea to have a rough idea of what things should cost before you start negotiating, so you know when you’re getting a fair price.

31. Carpet Salesman Are Pro’s At Getting You Into Their Shops

Carpet salesmen in Turkey are persistent—they won’t take no for an answer, so be prepared!

If you’re genuinely interested in buying a handmade Turkish rug (like I was), go in with a set price in mind and stick to it.

My husband and I knew we wanted a rug as a wedding gift to ourselves, and we haggled for over an hour. We even started walking out, and that’s when the salesman caved and gave us the price we wanted.

We ended up paying $2,250 for a rug they initially quoted at $8,000.

Later, our private tour guide in Cappadocia was shocked and impressed by the deal we got, saying it was a great price.

The key is patience and persistence—carpet salesmen hate losing a sale, so don’t be afraid to hold your ground!

32. How to Get Around Turkey

Getting around Turkey is easier than you might think, thanks to cheap and convenient domestic flights.

They’re exceptionally affordable and the quickest way to cover long distances, making them perfect for squeezing more into your Turkey travel Itinerary.

For ground transportation, I highly recommend using Welcome Pickups. We used them multiple times during our trip, and the experience was fantastic.

The drivers were friendly, spoke great English, and even gave us their local numbers in case we had any questions along the way. They made getting around stress-free, and I honestly can’t recommend them enough!

As for public transport, Turkey has options like buses and trains, but they’re not always the most time-efficient.

Uber in Turkey does exist, but it’s hit or miss—I wouldn’t recommend it. The same goes for taxis, as they can be unreliable, and even locals suggest avoiding them.

If you’re considering renting a car, it’s affordable, but keep in mind that Turkey is a big country, and drives between popular destinations can be long.

Plan accordingly to make the most of your time!

33. Where to Stay in Turkey

During our trip to Turkey, we stayed at three incredible hotels, each offering exceptional service, affordable prices, and unforgettable experiences.

Each of these hotels Im about to recommend had friendly staff, clean rooms, and amazing breakfasts with gorgeous views.

You honestly can’t go wrong with these picks—I highly recommend them!

Istanbul Hotel: Valide Sultan Konagi

I absolutely loved staying at the Valide Sultan Konagi.

This charming little hotel made up for its smaller rooms with its design, warm staff, and incredible breakfast buffet. One of my favorite moments was sipping Turkish coffee on the balcony overlooking the sea after breakfast—it was such a peaceful way to start the day.

And the location couldn’t have been better! It’s just a two-minute walk to the Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque, and it also overlooks the Topkapi Palace.

If you’re visiting Istanbul, this hotel is a gem.

Cappadocia Cave Hotel: Terra Cave Hotel

When in Cappadocia, staying in a cave hotel is a must, and Terra Cave Hotel was perfect!

Not only was it unique and cozy, but the staff went above and beyond—when they found out my then-fiancé and I were getting married in Cappadocia, they upgraded us to a stunning suite cave room.

The rooftop views were incredible, and if the balloons were flying at sunrise, you could see them right from the rooftop.

The breakfast was also amazing and added so much to the experience.

I’d stay here again in a heartbeat!

Kas Hotel: Payam Hotel

The Payam Hotel in Kaş was absolutely perfect.

Located on the edge of town, it was quiet and peaceful, but still just a short walk to shops and restaurants.

I booked an ocean-view room with a hot tub on the balcony, and let me tell you, if that room is available, book it right away!

Watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea every evening with a glass of wine in hand while sitting in the hot tub was unforgettable.

On top of that, the included breakfast was delicious.

This hotel was a highlight of our stay in the Turkish Riviera.

Common Scams in Turkey to Look Out For

While traveling to Turkey is generally safe and fun, there are a few common scams you should be aware of. Most of these are easy to avoid if you know what to look for, and being prepared can save you from an uncomfortable situation.

Here are some of the scams to keep on your radar:

🍵 The Drinks Scam

Some shops will lure you in by offering drinks like tea or coffee, which you might feel obligated to accept since it’s considered rude to refuse. Once you’re settled, they’ll bring out all sorts of items for you to buy and won’t take “no” for an answer.

It’s easy to feel stuck, but if you find yourself in this situation, remember you’re not obligated to buy anything—just politely excuse yourself and leave.

🚕 The Taxi Scam

When it comes to taxi rides, be cautious!

Some taxi drivers will try to overcharge by taking longer routes or “forgetting” to turn on the meter. Others may claim they don’t have change for larger bills, leaving you stuck paying more than the actual fare.

To avoid this, agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is running before your ride begins.

But honestly even the locals recommend tourists just avoid taxis.

🚗 The Uber Scam

If you use Uber in Turkey, be prepared for drivers to message you after accepting your ride, claiming the quoted price is wrong and demanding a higher fare.

If you refuse, they’ll likely cancel the ride.

In some cases, they’ll wait until you’re in the car to tell you the fare is higher and insist on cash payment.

Always confirm the fare in advance and be ready to cancel if something feels off.

I recommend you avoid using Uber. They use the same taxis, which are doing the same scams above.

🤷 Don’t Be A Good Samaritan If Someone Drops Something

Be cautious if someone “accidentally” drops something in front of you and expects you to pick it up.

This is often a distraction technique used by scammers to steal from you or involve you in a scam. Keep your belongings secure and politely ignore the situation.

🌹 Don’t accept anything, especially if offered for free

If someone offers you a “free” item, like a rose or a bottle of water, don’t take it.

Once you accept, they’ll demand payment, and it can get awkward quickly.

Politely decline and keep walking—it’s the easiest way to avoid getting caught up in this scam.

🧾 The Restaurant Scam

Some restaurants, especially in tourist areas, will have menus without prices, or they’ll inflate your bill far beyond what was listed.

Always ask for a menu with prices or confirm the cost of dishes before ordering.

Checking reviews beforehand can also help you avoid places that are known for this trick.

Is It Safe to Travel to Turkey Right Now?

Absolutely, Turkey is safe to visit!

We felt completely safe the entire time we were there, whether we were exploring Istanbul, hiking around Cappadocia, or chilling by the coast on the Turkish Riviera.

The locals are super friendly, and eager to please tourists.

Like anywhere, just stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your stuff in crowded areas. And yeah, watch out for those little scams I mentioned earlier.

But honestly, I wouldn’t hesitate to go back—it’s such an amazing place to visit!

When is The Best Time to Visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey is during the off-seasons, like spring (April to May) and fall (September to October).

Turkey is a hugely popular tourist destination, and the summers can be not only crowded but also scorching hot, especially in places like Cappadocia and along the coast.

Visiting during the off-seasons means fewer crowds, better prices, and much more comfortable weather.

We went at the end of April, and the weather was fantastic. It was warm but not too hot, and the coast was especially beautiful.

If you’re planning to visit multiple regions, the spring and fall months are perfect because the temperatures are more balanced across the country, making it easier to explore and pack for.

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That’s a Wrap

There you go. I’ve covered all the things to know before going to Turkey that will help you avoid any surprises, embrace the culture, and have an unforgettable experience.

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