Yes, a passport is required for travel to Turkey for most nationalities. It’s essential to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Turkiye (valid six months from your date of return home). You need to have a minimum of one blank page available for entry/exit stamps in your passport and secure additional pages if necessary.
We suggest that you carry extra passport photos and a photocopy of your passport’s information page when you travel. Additionally, please check the visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

A visa is required by some countries to enter Turkiye.

However, some countries do not require a visa and currently these include: United Kingdom, USA, etc. The length of time a foreign citizen can remain in Turkiye varies from country to country and it is important you verify time periods applicable to your nationality. For example citizens of the United States of America; ordinary passport holders can stay for 90 days within any 180 day period.

Visitors requiring a visa must obtain their Turkish visas from Turkish missions/consulates abroad or through the e-visa application system. It is highly recommended that foreign citizens intending to visit Turkiye acquaint themselves with the relevant visa information prior to their travel.

For further details on visa requirements, please visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where comprehensive information about Turkiye’s visa regime is available for each country: www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa .

To obtain your visa in advance, detailed information regarding Turkish e-visas and the application process can be found online at: http://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ . Please fill out the online application at least one week before departure. The electronic visa will be emailed to you within approximately 24 hours after applying and should be printed and carried with you during the program. There is no need to send in your passport. The visa can be paid using either MasterCard or VISA.

The site also has a good FAQ section to answer any questions you may have. When applying, note the dates of validity for the visa to ensure it covers the time you will be in the country, depending on your personal travel plans.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application process for your trip to Turkiye. If you have any further questions please always get in touch with us at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you further.

While a passport is essential for international travel, large cruise lines often have special arrangements in place to streamline their passengers’ shore excursions. These arrangements are designed to minimize the risk of passport loss or theft while passengers explore and shop.

In summary, you can enjoy a day trip to Turkiye from your cruise ship without carrying your passport. However, it’s advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport for identification purposes while your original passport is securely stored by the cruise line.
By sticking to these guidelines, you can make the most of your cruise ship experience in Turkiye without worrying about visa formalities. If you have any further questions please always get in touch with us at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you further.

The national language in Turkiye is Turkish. However, tourists will rarely encounter difficulties communicating, as English is widely spoken in hotels, tourist areas, and shops at all major cities.

Turkish people are renowned for their hospitality and willingness to assist visitors. Even if they don’t understand your language, they will go out of their way to help you to navigate your way through Turkiye’s diverse attractions.

Foreign visitors who attempt to speak even a few words of Turkish, however, will definitely be rewarded with even warmer smiles.

Some useful words and phrases: 

• Hello – merhaba (mare-hah-bah)
• Good morning – günaydin (goon-eye-din) (said on meeting)
• Good day – iyi günler (ee-yee goo -n-ler) (said on meeting or parting)
• Good evening – iyi akşamlar (ee-yee ak-sham-lar) (said on meeting or parting)
• Good night – iyi geceler (ee-yee gedge -e-ler) (said on meeting or parting)
• Please – lütfen (lute-fen)
• Thanks – teşekkürler (tesh-e-kiir- ler)
• Yes – evet (e-vet)
• No – hayır (higher)
• I want – istiyorum (ist-ee-your-um)
• When? – ne zaman? (nay za-man)
• Today – bugün (boo-goon)
• Tomorrow – yarın (yah-run)
• Where? – nerede (ne’re-de)
• My name is… – ismim… (is-mim)
• Water – su (sue)
• Milk – süt (suit)
• Beer – bira (beer-a)
• Wine – şarap (shar-ap)
• Tea – çay (ch-eye)
• Coffee – kahve (car-vay)
• Food – yemek (ye-meck)
• Be careful! – Dikkat!

During Turkish national and religious holidays, banks and governmental offices are closed, while restaurants and shops remain open. In fact, these establishments tend to be more crowded than usual, offering a vibrant atmosphere for travellers to experience.

By being aware of Turkish national and religious holidays, travellers can plan their itineraries accordingly and make the most of their time exploring the country’s rich culture and heritage.

Turkish Religious Holidays are significant events observed by the Muslim population in Turkiye Some of the most important religious holidays include:

• Ramadan (Ramazan): Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. It is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and community bonding. The date changes each year and please contact us for further information. Restaurants and other eatery places will be open during the day, it does not affect any daily routines.
• Festive Days of Ramadan: It marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with special prayers, feasting, and giving of gifts to family and friends for three days. It is a joyous occasion that signifies the completion of a month of fasting and spiritual growth. The museums might be closed for a half-day on the first day of the festival. The Spice Market and the Grand Bazaar will be closed during the Festival.
• The Feast of Sacrifice (Kurban Bayramı): It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of an animal (usually a sheep, goat, or cow), and the distribution of meat to the needy. It is a four-day holiday. Museums will be closed for a half-day on the first day of festival. The Spice Market and the Grand Bazaar will be closed during the Festival.

Following dates are the National Holidays in Turkiye:

• January 1: New Year’s Day ( Yıl Başı). Museums might be closed for a half-day. The Spice Market & the Grand Bazaar will be closed.
• April 23: National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (Ulusal Egemenlik ve Cocuk Bayrami). Only the government offices and schools will be closed. None of the tourist spots, shopping malls or regular shops will be affected on this day.
• May 1: Labour Day (Işçi Bayramı). There will be a big meeting in Taksim and the traffic will be stopped for several hours to control (or avoid) the protesting groups.
• May 19: Atatürk Commemoration and Youth & Sports Day (Atatürk’ü Anma Gençlik ve Spor Bayramı). Only the government offices and schools will be closed. None of the tourist spots, shopping malls or regular shops will be effected on this day. 
• July 15: Democracy and Solidarity Day (Demokrasi ve Dayanışma Bayramı)
• August 30: Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı). Only the government offices and schools will be closed. None of the tourist spots, shopping malls or regular shops will be effected on this day. 
• October 28: Republic Day – Eve (Half-day)
• October 29: Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı). The Spice Market & the Grand Bazaar will be closed.

Most museums and palaces are open every day of the week except Mondays. There are a few notable exceptions and here are the opening hours and closure days for some of the iconic sites in Turkiye:

• Grand Bazaar: Closed on Sundays.
• Topkapi Palace: Closed on Tuesdays.
• Dolmabahce Palace: Closed on Mondays and Thursdays.

Our expertise extends beyond simply considering these schedules when planning your visit, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience and much more.

• The official currency of Turkiye is the Turkish Lira, denoted by the symbol ‘TL’.
• Turkish Lira is available in various denominations, including banknotes in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 lira, and coins in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 kurus, and 1 lira.
• U.S. Dollars and Euros are widely accepted in Turkiye, and you’ll find numerous exchange offices, banks, and hotels where you can exchange currencies as needed.
• We recommend that you bring a combination of cash, debit/ATM cards, and credit cards on your trip. Remember to carry your Euro or U.S. dollars in a mix of smaller denominations (less than $100), and make sure they are recent (post-2006 “big head” bills), clean, and in good condition.

It’s not advisable to exchange currency before arriving in Turkiye due to potential loss of value caused by high inflation and exchange rates in your own country. Plan to exchange your money for local currency upon arrival. You can also conveniently withdraw Turkish Lira from ATMs at the airport upon arrival.

The exchange rate for Turkish Lira fluctuates depending on the currency being exchanged. You can easily check the current exchange rates online or at currency exchange offices.

You will find ATMs are widely available throughout Turkiye, making it easy to manage your finances with a credit or debit card. However, they may be limited or non-existent in more rural areas. Your guide will inform you about the best locations for exchanging and withdrawing money.

Banks in Turkiye operate from Monday to Friday, with typical working hours from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, banks at airports are open 24 hours a day for your convenience.

MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels and shops. Please note that American Express is not accepted in many establishments due to high commission charges.

We recommend that you keep copies of the front and back of your credit and debit cards, as well as phone numbers for your credit and debit card companies, in a separate place during your trip, in case your cards are lost or stolen.

Yes, you can easily use your mobile phone in Turkiye. Several international GSM operators offer coverage, along with local operators like Turkcell, Avea, and Vodafone.

Before traveling to Turkiye, you have two options to ensure mobile connectivity:

1. Activate international roaming: Contact your GSM operator and request to activate the international roaming function on your mobile phone. This allows you to use your existing SIM card abroad. Please avoid any purchase at the airports (due to the high charges) and instead, ask your guide to assist you locally.
2. Obtain a local SIM card: Alternatively, upon arrival in Turkiye, you can purchase a new SIM card from one of the local operators. Simply visit their stores and choose a suitable plan for your needs.
3. You can also get an e-sim card and do not need to change your own sim card.

By following these steps, you can stay connected during your travels in Turkiye and avoid any inconvenience related to mobile communication.

Country code is 90; the area codes are as follows:

• Istanbul 0212 & 0216
• Izmir 0232
• Antalya 0242
• Cappadocia 0384
• Kusadasi 0256
• Bodrum 0252

Note: Phone lines in Istanbul have two different area codes for the European side and the Asian side, though they only need to be dialled if the call is made from the opposite side: dial 0212 for your calls to the European side when you are on the Asian side and 0216 for the Asian side when you are on the European side.

When traveling in remote areas, access to cell phone coverage and the internet may be limited or non-existent. While internet connections are available at all hotels on your trip, please be aware that the signal may be slow or unreliable.

Tipping is a common practice in Turkiye, and it’s advisable to carry small bills for this purpose. Tips to guides, drivers, and others are not included in the land cost of your trip. Visitors typically tip service providers such as tour guides, drivers, hotel bell staff, and restaurant waiters.

While by no means mandatory, if you feel your guide and driver have added to the value of your experience you may want to offer a tip at the end of the trip.

Showing satisfaction through tipping is appreciated and helps acknowledge the excellent service you receive during your travels in Turkiye. Assuming good performance, we recommend the following amounts:

Recommended Tipping Guidelines (in USD):

• Local Guide: $50-100 per day for full day touring
• Drivers for touring: $20 to 40 per day based on length and complexity of drives, for half day touring half of these amounts are recommended.
• Boat crew: $20
• Airport representative: $10 total per transfer
• Drivers for transfers: $10 total per transfer
• VIP Airport Service: Tip is included
• Porters: $2.00 per bag
• Hotel housekeeping: $3 total per day
• Gullet sailing yacht: 10% of the charter cost
• Restaurants: 10 percent (if a service charge is not included in the bill – please check)
• Coins are useful to have on one’s person for tips, drinks, and restroom entry when these expenses are not already covered and paid for by the guide.

Both international currencies Euros, U.S. dollars along with Turkish Liras are accepted for gratuities.

Participants are responsible for their own overweight luggage charges, so please be aware of your luggage limits during the program as well as the restrictions for your international flight carrier. One carry-on piece not to exceed 17 pounds/ 8 kg (in addition to a purse or handbag), which must fit under your seat or in the overhead luggage compartment. The standard free baggage allowance on internal flights is generally 42 pounds (20 kilograms), though this is dependent upon airline, fare, and class of ticket. These restrictions are set by the domestic flight carriers within Turkiye.

If your bags do not arrive with your flight, immediately report the loss to the ground staff of the airline on which you arrived. You must fill out a lost luggage form. Make sure you receive a copy of the form and record the number of bags missing, along with the corresponding baggage claim number(s). Next, request that your bags be sent to your hotel, and let your guide or our local representatives know about the loss. Please remember to pack all essential items in your carry-on bag, including medications. Checked luggage can be delayed or lost, and we recommend packing as much as possible in your carry-on bag(s).

At most shops, the retail price includes a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 20%.
2% city tax is also charged at the hotels but it is already included in room rates so there is no need to pay on the spot.

The majority of Turkish citizens are Muslim, but there also are Christian and Jewish communities mainly in the cities of Istanbul and Izmir. The Turkish Republic was founded in 1923 on strong secular principles and, for this reason Turkiye has a distinct modern and cosmopolitan feel.

Apart from government offices and banks, most businesses and shops are open seven days of the week from 10 AM until 8 to 10 PM. Saturday to Sunday are the weekend off days.

• While Turkiye is generally safe for tourists, incidents of pick-pocketing are not uncommon in the cities. As a precaution, we recommend using a lightweight passport and money pouch worn under your clothing, around your neck or waist.
• Though rare, theft incidents can happen. Most accommodations offer safe deposit boxes for storing valuables, but we advise leaving expensive jewellery and other valuables at home.
• When taking taxis, only use those from hotels or restaurants with a designated taxi stand. Avoid hailing taxis on the street. For reliable transportation, we suggest arranging private transfers to/from airports.
• Exercise caution when approached by strangers, as they may have ulterior motives. Avoid divulging personal information or your hotel’s location to unfamiliar individuals. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, as you would in any country.
• Choose hotels with visible security measures and use hotel safes to store passports. Consider carrying a copy of your passport for added security.

If you are taking photographs of local people, always ask their permission beforehand. Your guide can assist you in this. If they refuse, respect their wishes. Do not take photographs of military installations or airports. In most museums there are restrictions on the use of flash photography and the use of tripods – please ask your guide if you are unsure.

• Turkiye’s electrical current is 220-240V; sockets take the standard continental European dual round-pronged plug. If you bring your own appliances or chargers, be sure that they accept multiple voltages. Check by reviewing the information on the actual appliance or appliance cord: if it lists a range (e.g., 100-240v), it is multi- voltage and you will need only a plug adapter; if it only shows one voltage (e.g., 110v), you will need a converter as well as plug adapter.
• Most laptop computers and digital camera battery chargers can operate on a range of currents from 110-240 volts, in which case a converter is not necessary since the current in Turkiye is 220 volts, 50 cycles. If you plan to bring any electrical appliances that operate on 110 volts, such as shavers or curling irons, you will need to bring your own electrical converter.
• The sockets in Turkiye typically require the European plug with 2-round prongs. Hotels can vary from place to place so it is best to be equipped with a few different adapters. Our best recommendation is to travel with a universal voltage converter. You will need an adapter plug that looks like this (www.worldstandards.eu) to charge any of your electrical devices. If you travel frequently, a universal adapter will cover you on this trip as well as your future travels.

At the present time, no vaccinations are required for visitors to travel to and within Turkiye.

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on your personal medical history, where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, we suggest you consider the following:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid vaccine
• Rabies vaccine

See your doctor at least four to six weeks before your trip to allow time for vaccines to take effect. If it is less than four weeks before you leave, you should still see your doctor.

During your stay, it is preferable to drink only bottled water, though in hotels it’s safe to brush your teeth with the tap water. We recommend you to carry reusable water bottles and you can fill in the mornings during the breakfast at the hotels before you depart for your tour.

When exploring the beautiful landscapes of Turkiye, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. While coastal breezes may make the sun feel cooler, it can still be strong, especially during the summer months from June to September. Please check the forecast in advance before you travel. Here are some essential sun protection tips for your travels:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially in the hot summer months.
2. Wear protective clothing: Bring a sun hat with a wide brim to shield your face from direct sunlight. Consider wearing a lightweight scarf to protect your neck from sunburn.
3. Invest in quality sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVB rays to protect your eyes from harmful sun exposure.
4. Use sunscreen: Apply a waterproof sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply sunscreen every few hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
5. Carry medical prescriptions: It’s always a good idea to carry a copy of your medical prescriptions with you in case of emergencies.

By following these sun protection tips, you can enjoy your travels in Turkiye while keeping yourself safe from the sun’s harmful effects.

When packing for your trip to Turkiye, consider the following general attire recommendations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

1. Comfortable walking shoes: Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore historical sites and bustling city streets.
2. Sun protection: Bring a sunhat and lightweight clothing made of breathable cotton to stay cool in the Turkish climate. Consider packing a lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and boat rides.
3. Daytime clothing: In Istanbul and the western region of Turkiye, appropriate daytime attire includes long shorts, knee-length skirts, cotton trousers, T-shirts/polos, short-sleeved blouses, and sundresses. For evening meals, opt for smart-casual attire such as open-collared shirts with trousers for men, a jacket and tie is not required. In most restaurants in Istanbul, you can expect a “casual elegant” code.
4. Pool and beach attire: At hotel pool areas, feel free to wear low necklines, sleeveless shirts, shorts, and bathing suits. Similarly, at beach resorts, dress comfortably as you would at home.
5. When visiting mosques in Turkiye, it’s important to adhere to the following attire guidelines: Ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect for the religious significance of the mosque. Ladies are required to cover their heads while visiting any mosque. At popular tourist sites like the Blue Mosque, scarves are often provided onsite for visitors’ convenience however we suggest you to bring your own so you will avoid the line. Before entering the mosque, remember to remove your shoes as a sign of cleanliness and respect. Wear socks if necessary, as you will be walking barefoot inside the mosque. Always consult your guide for specific requirements.

By following these general attire guidelines, you can dress appropriately for various activities and cultural experiences in Turkiye and show respect for the religious customs and traditions while visiting mosques in Turkiye. However remember every trip has its own specific requirements and we will send you a pre-check list before you travel with us.

Generally talking laundry is available at most hotels for a fee, with the exception of small hotels. At those hotels where you have only a one night stay, it may not be possible to do laundry.

Turkiye’s climate varies significantly based on its geographical regions. Generally, the climate is temperate, with a warming Mediterranean influence in the western and southern parts. Summers in the Mediterranean regions are typically hot and dry, while winters are mild and wet. In central and eastern Turkey, winters tend to be cold, and summers are hot and dry.

To plan accordingly, we recommend checking the weather conditions at your destination using online weather services in the week leading up to your departure. This will help you decide what items to pack. Here’s a general overview of the expected temperatures:

For almost five centuries, the peoples that lived under Ottoman rule collectively contributed to the sophisticated cuisine that was created in the kitchens of Topkapi Palace. Turkiye boasts a rich culinary heritage; the territories ranged from the Balkans to North Africa, though many of today’s staple dishes originated in Central Asia and were introduced by the Turkic tribes migrating westward.

Two dominant ingredients in Turkish cuisine are lamb (kuzu) and eggplant (patlican), both used in a variety of mouth-watering dishes. Vegetarian options are also plentiful, although meat often plays a significant role in seasoning and flavouring.

No culinary journey in Turkey is complete without sampling the national drink, raki. This clear anise-flavored spirit, enjoyed alongside appetizer mezes and seafood, offers a unique taste experience. Additionally, Turkiye boasts a thriving wine industry, featuring local grape varietals such as Narince, Boğazkere, and Oküzgözü.

While Turkiye may not be renowned globally for its beer, it’s worth exploring and Turkiye offers a delightful array of options, including popular brands like Efes and Bomonti. In recent years, entrepreneurs have delved into craft beer making, introducing unique brews such as Knidos, Gara Guzu, and Asante from Adana.

If you have specific dietary requirements, please inform us in advance, and we will provide a card outlining your needs in Turkish to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Explore our delectable food tasting tours and immersive cooking classes on our website, perfect for all food enthusiasts!

You are not required to invite your guide to dine with you. However, if you do decide to invite your guide, it is customary to pay the guide’s meal. If you prefer to dine without your guide, please advise them and they will meet you at a specified time after your meal.

Most restaurants in Istanbul require reservations as they are extremely busy during the dinner time. We can make a reservation for you in conjunction with confirmed transportation to/from the restaurant. You can also make a reservation through your hotel concierge.

Generally speaking, Turkish people eat dinner between 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM.

Shopping centres in Turkiye operate daily, providing a wide range of brands and services. Typically, they are open from 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM.

Whether you’re looking for fashion, electronics, or dining options, you’ll find plenty of choices within these hours.

Plan your shopping excursions accordingly to make the most of your time exploring Turkiye’s vibrant retail scene and you may want to check our shopping tour options.

Working Hours: Offices and banks are generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Monday to Friday, with a break between 12:00 to 1:30 PM

Turkiye is a shoppers’ paradise! Local items to purchase include: handmade carpets, jewellery (24 karat gold is famous), Iznik tiles, textiles, leather and many souvenirs. You can consult your guide or our office for reputable merchants.

There are two main bazaars in Istanbul, Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) and Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı). Bargaining is all part of the fun in the Bazaars!

Alternatively, if you are not interested in shopping, please inform your guide.

• Emergency: 112 

• International Operator: 115

• Police: 155 

• Gendarme: 156 

• Fire Department: 110

You will need to pay for any medical treatment, which you receive in Turkiye. For this reason it is advisable to take out medical insurance before travelling. It is not difficult to find English-speaking doctors in all but the most remote areas. There are also foreign run hospitals in many of the larger towns and resorts. You can find a list of hospitals on the British Consulate in Turkiye website: www.britishembassy.gov.uk . There are pharmacies in most places with trained pharmacists who are able to offer advice on minor illnesses. Many more medicines are available over the counter.