Introduction

In Turkey, we discovered a destination that blends millennia of history, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant culture from the very first moment.

Our experience reveals the unique charm of Turkey, combining ancient traditions and modern hospitality.

In this article, we’ll share how to plan a memorable trip to Turkey, with practical tips and unforgettable attractions.

Why visit Turkey?

Turkey is a treasure between East and West, with an impressive cultural heritage. In Istanbul, we felt the living presence of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires through monuments like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

In Ephesus, we walked along ancient streets where history echoes with every step. At Göbekli Tepe, we marveled at an archaeological site that predates the Egyptian pyramids, one of the most important discoveries in modern archaeology.

Nature is another irresistible invitation. We explored the lunar valleys of Cappadocia, where hot air balloons rise at dawn, and relaxed in the thermal waters of Pamukkale. The beaches along the Turquoise Coast, such as those in Antalya and Ölüdeniz, revealed a turquoise-blue paradise perfect for diving and coastal hiking.

And of course, the cuisine. We savored kebabs, mezes, and desserts like baklava, accompanied by traditional Turkish tea. In every city, the hospitality made us feel at home. Local markets offered us a real lesson in culture and flavor.

Best time to visit

To make the most of the trip, we recommend visiting Turkey in the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant and the landscapes even more enchanting, with blooming mountains and comfortable temperatures.

Summer (June to August) is perfect for beach lovers, though you’ll face high temperatures and crowded spots. In winter, especially from December to February, we found fewer tourists and experienced a calmer side of the country, with possible snowfall in Cappadocia and Ankara.

Seasonal events like food festivals, cultural performances, and religious celebrations make these times even more special for travelers seeking cultural immersion.

Documentation and entry in 2025

For Brazilian and European Union citizens, no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Passports must be valid for at least 150 days from the entry date. This ease makes the country even more attractive for a mid-length trip.

It’s important to check health requirements in advance, such as vaccination certificates. We also recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses and cancellations, especially for outdoor activities or remote areas.

To avoid airport lines, we suggest completing the electronic Turkey Entry Form ahead of time. It speeds up immigration and improves the arrival experience.

Must-see itineraries and attractions

Istanbul and the European coast

We started in Istanbul, where we visited the majestic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. We wandered through the Grand Bazaar and cruised the Bosphorus Strait, between two continents. We explored neighborhoods like Galata, Sultanahmet, and Kadıköy, each with its own charm.

Cappadocia

In Cappadocia, we witnessed one of the most memorable sunrises under a sky full of colorful balloons. We explored the Red and Rose Valleys, discovered underground cities like Derinkuyu, and stayed in charming cave hotels. We visited the open-air museum in Göreme and admired Byzantine frescoes in rock-hewn churches.

Turquoise Coast

We headed to the Turquoise Coast to enjoy paradisiacal beaches in Antalya, Fethiye, and Bodrum. In Ölüdeniz, we went paragliding over the blue lagoon. We hiked the Lycian Way and sailed in traditional wooden boats called “gulets.”

Archaeological sites

We explored Ephesus, with its Library of Celsus and Roman theater; Hierapolis, with its thermal ruins; and the spectacular Mount Nemrut, where stone colossi guard the secrets of ancient kings. We also ventured into the ancient Phrygian kingdom and admired the sculptures of Hattusa.

Current safety and precautions

Currently, Turkey is safe for tourists, especially in the most visited regions. We always paid attention to local authority recommendations and avoided traveling alone at night in remote areas.

Respecting cultural customs is essential, such as wearing appropriate clothing in mosques and keeping personal belongings secure in crowded places. Solo female travelers are welcomed, but should dress modestly in traditional areas.

Tourist police are present in popular locations and are usually very helpful. Having translation and transport apps on your phone is also highly recommended.

Planning and suggested itineraries

For a complete trip, we suggest at least 10 days. A classic itinerary includes 3 days in Istanbul, 3 in Cappadocia, and 4 along the Turquoise Coast. Those with more time can explore eastern regions like Mardin or Van.

We traveled by domestic flights, which are very affordable, and also used comfortable trains and buses. In Istanbul, metro and trams made mobility easy. The Istanbulkart is essential for public transport.

Booking accommodations in advance and organizing local routes with travel apps like Rome2Rio and Flixbus helped us a lot.

Festivals and cultural experiences

We joined dance and music festivals in Istanbul and regional celebrations that revealed the Turkish soul. The Whirling Dervishes in Konya and the Cultural Festival in Cappadocia connected us to ancient traditions.

Other unforgettable experiences included watching a classical Ottoman music show, learning pottery in Avanos, and visiting spice markets. Connecting with local artisans deeply enriched our journey.

Budget tips and cost-benefit

The Turkish lira offers excellent exchange rates. We found delicious meals at affordable prices in “lokantas” and family-run restaurants. Smaller cities had even better prices.

We stayed in cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels with great value. To save money, we bought the Museum Pass, granting access to various attractions.

We also used cashback booking platforms and purchased discounted tickets months in advance. Bargaining in markets and shops helped us secure great deals.

Get inspired and start planning

Traveling to Turkey is a sensory journey where history, nature, and culture are passionately intertwined.

Whether it’s your first international destination or another adventure in your passport, Turkey always has surprises around every corner.

Pack your bags—an unforgettable experience awaits us on the other side of the Mediterranean. And remember: the more we explore, the more we discover that Turkey always has something new to offer.