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Travel guide

Turkey holidays: a travel guide for UK visitors

Where Europe meets Asia — Istanbul’s minarets, ancient Ephesus and the turquoise coast make Turkey a richly rewarding cruise and tour destination.

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Why visit Turkey

Turkey straddles two continents and wears the layers of empire lightly. Istanbul alone spans Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history, its skyline pierced by the domes of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia and its bazaars heavy with spice and lantern-light. South along the Aegean coast lie the marble streets of ancient Ephesus and the cotton-white terraces of Pamukkale, while the so-called Turquoise Coast offers sheltered bays and gulet sailing. Add famously generous hospitality, sweet apple tea and some of the best food in the Mediterranean, and Turkey delivers far more than its prices suggest.

Best time to visit

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October) bring warm, comfortable weather perfect for sightseeing and cruising, avoiding the high heat of midsummer on the coast and the inland sites. Istanbul is enjoyable year-round, though winter there can be cold and grey.

Top things to do in Turkey

  1. 1

    Explore Istanbul’s old city

    The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar sit close together in the historic Sultanahmet district, with a Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia rounding off a perfect day ashore.

  2. 2

    Walk ancient Ephesus from Kuşadası

    One of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean, Ephesus and its great Library of Celsus are an easy excursion from the cruise port of Kuşadası, often paired with the terraces of Pamukkale.

  3. 3

    Sail the Turquoise Coast

    Sheltered bays, pine-clad hills and ruins half-sunk in clear water make Turkey’s south-west coast around Bodrum and Marmaris a favourite for relaxed sailing and swimming stops.

The cheapest Turkey holidays right now

Lowest lead-in prices first, from live availability. Open one for its dates, and book directly with its operator.

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Turkey travel questions

Do UK citizens need a visa for Turkey?
No. UK tourists can visit Turkey without a visa for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Turkey is not part of the Schengen Area, so this allowance is separate from any Schengen travel.
What passport validity do I need for Turkey?
UK passport holders need a passport valid for at least 150 days from the date of arrival, with at least one full blank page for entry stamps. Check your expiry date well before you travel.
When is the best time to visit Turkey?
Spring and autumn are ideal, with warm but comfortable weather for sightseeing and cruising. Summer is hot, especially inland at sites such as Ephesus and Pamukkale, while Istanbul rewards a visit at almost any time of year.
What currency does Turkey use?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY). Cards are accepted in cities, hotels and larger shops, but cash is useful in bazaars and smaller establishments. Have small amounts ready for markets and tips.
Is Turkey expensive to visit?
Turkey is excellent value for British travellers, with reasonable prices for meals, markets and excursions. A cruise or tour bundles the major costs together, and day-to-day spending tends to go a long way.
How many hours ahead is Turkey compared with the UK?
Turkey is three hours ahead of the UK throughout the year. Turkey does not change its clocks for daylight saving, so the difference widens to two hours during British Summer Time.
Is Turkey safe for tourists?
The main tourist regions, including Istanbul and the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, are well used to visitors and generally safe. Take normal care with valuables in crowded bazaars, and check the latest UK government travel advice before you go.
Do I need a travel adaptor for Turkey?
Yes. Turkey uses Type F sockets at 230V, so you will need a European travel adaptor for your UK three-pin plugs. UK devices run happily on the local voltage.
Which Turkish ports do cruises visit?
Istanbul is the headline call, with Kuşadası (for Ephesus), Bodrum, Marmaris and Çeşme also featuring on Eastern Mediterranean and Aegean itineraries, often combined with the Greek islands.
Do they speak English in Turkey?
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels and resorts, so you will manage easily as a visitor. Learning a few Turkish words such as teşekkürler (thank you) is warmly received.

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