Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling to Turkey, booking trips, and using VisitTurkey.in. Our comprehensive FAQs page is designed to provide you with all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Turkey, a country rich in history and natural beauty, offers a variety of transportation options for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you’re planning to explore the bustling cities, historical sites, or serene coastal towns, Turkey’s extensive transport network can cater to all your travel needs. Here’s a detailed look at the various modes of transport available in Turkey.
Travel by Plane
Domestic Flights
Turkey’s vast size makes air travel a convenient option for covering long distances. Turkish Airlines and several other competent carriers, such as Onur Air, Atlasjet, Anadolu Jet, Pegasus Air, and Sun Express, offer frequent flights between major cities. Domestic flights are relatively inexpensive, with most fares ranging from TL89 to TL250 one-way. Major airports are well-connected, making air travel a time-efficient way to move around the country.
Major Airports and Codes
- Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
- Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)
- Antalya Airport (AYT)
Travel by Bus
Modern Bus Network
Turkey boasts a robust network of modern, luxurious buses that connect cities and towns across the country. This mode of transport is particularly popular among locals. Although it might be challenging to find fare and schedule information online, it’s easy to obtain once you’re in Turkey. Bus departures are frequent, and advanced reservations are generally not necessary on most routes.
Sample Routes and Travel Times
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 450 km (280 miles), 6-7 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Izmir: Approximately 480 km (300 miles), 7-8 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Antalya: Approximately 720 km (450 miles), 10-12 hours by bus.
Travel by Car
Car Rentals
For those who enjoy the freedom of movement and are comfortable driving, renting a car is an excellent option. However, it’s essential to note that most rental cars have a manual transmission (“stick shift”), not automatic. Renting a car allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace.
Driving Tips
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Always carry your driver’s license, international driving permit, and vehicle registration documents.
- Be aware of local traffic rules and regulations.
Travel by Train
High-Speed Trains
Turkey is rapidly expanding its high-speed train network, aiming to connect 15 cities that hold half of the country’s population. These trains offer a fast, comfortable, and affordable way to travel between major cities. Notable routes include:
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 4-5 hours.
- Ankara to Konya: Approximately 1.5 hours.
Conventional Trains
Conventional trains are also available and can be a more economical option. Although slower than buses, they offer more seating room and comfort.
Useful Resources
- TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş.: The official site for Turkish State Railways, providing schedules and booking options.
Travel by Ship & Ferry
Cruise Ships
Cruise ships frequently dock at Turkish ports, including Istanbul and Kuşadası, providing easy access to popular destinations like Ephesus.
Sea of Marmara Ferryboats
Ferry services across the Sea of Marmara connect Istanbul with Yalova and Bandırma, offering a scenic and relaxing mode of travel.
Dardanelles Ferries
Ferries across the Dardanelles Strait link Europe and Asia, connecting key historical sites such as Çanakkale, Troy, and the Gallipoli battlefields.
Greek Islands—Turkey Ferries
Regular ferry services connect Greek islands with the Turkish coast. Check schedules and fares on Feribot.net.
Cyprus—Turkey Ferries
Ferries operate year-round between Girne (Kyrenia) in Northern Cyprus and Turkish ports like Taşucu/Silifke, with additional services to Alanya in the summer.
Tips for Traveling During Major Holidays
Travel can be particularly crowded during major Turkish holidays. It’s wise to plan and book your transportation in advance during these peak periods to ensure availability and avoid long waits.
Turkey, a country rich in history and natural beauty, offers a variety of transportation options for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you’re planning to explore the bustling cities, historical sites, or serene coastal towns, Turkey’s extensive transport network can cater to all your travel needs. Here’s a detailed look at the various modes of transport available in Turkey.
Travel by Plane
Domestic Flights
Turkey’s vast size makes air travel a convenient option for covering long distances. Turkish Airlines and several other competent carriers, such as Onur Air, Atlasjet, Anadolu Jet, Pegasus Air, and Sun Express, offer frequent flights between major cities. Domestic flights are relatively inexpensive, with most fares ranging from TL89 to TL250 one-way. Major airports are well-connected, making air travel a time-efficient way to move around the country.
Major Airports and Codes
- Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
- Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)
- Antalya Airport (AYT)
Travel by Bus
Modern Bus Network
Turkey boasts a robust network of modern, luxurious buses that connect cities and towns across the country. This mode of transport is particularly popular among locals. Although it might be challenging to find fare and schedule information online, it’s easy to obtain once you’re in Turkey. Bus departures are frequent, and advanced reservations are generally not necessary on most routes.
Sample Routes and Travel Times
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 450 km (280 miles), 6-7 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Izmir: Approximately 480 km (300 miles), 7-8 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Antalya: Approximately 720 km (450 miles), 10-12 hours by bus.
Travel by Car
Car Rentals
For those who enjoy the freedom of movement and are comfortable driving, renting a car is an excellent option. However, it’s essential to note that most rental cars have a manual transmission (“stick shift”), not automatic. Renting a car allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace.
Driving Tips
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Always carry your driver’s license, international driving permit, and vehicle registration documents.
- Be aware of local traffic rules and regulations.
Travel by Train
High-Speed Trains
Turkey is rapidly expanding its high-speed train network, aiming to connect 15 cities that hold half of the country’s population. These trains offer a fast, comfortable, and affordable way to travel between major cities. Notable routes include:
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 4-5 hours.
- Ankara to Konya: Approximately 1.5 hours.
Conventional Trains
Conventional trains are also available and can be a more economical option. Although slower than buses, they offer more seating room and comfort.
Useful Resources
- TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş.: The official site for Turkish State Railways, providing schedules and booking options.
Travel by Ship & Ferry
Cruise Ships
Cruise ships frequently dock at Turkish ports, including Istanbul and Kuşadası, providing easy access to popular destinations like Ephesus.
Sea of Marmara Ferryboats
Ferry services across the Sea of Marmara connect Istanbul with Yalova and Bandırma, offering a scenic and relaxing mode of travel.
Dardanelles Ferries
Ferries across the Dardanelles Strait link Europe and Asia, connecting key historical sites such as Çanakkale, Troy, and the Gallipoli battlefields.
Greek Islands—Turkey Ferries
Regular ferry services connect Greek islands with the Turkish coast. Check schedules and fares on Feribot.net.
Cyprus—Turkey Ferries
Ferries operate year-round between Girne (Kyrenia) in Northern Cyprus and Turkish ports like Taşucu/Silifke, with additional services to Alanya in the summer.
Tips for Traveling During Major Holidays
Travel can be particularly crowded during major Turkish holidays. It’s wise to plan and book your transportation in advance during these peak periods to ensure availability and avoid long waits.
Visitors dreaming of an extraordinary vacation using Turkey’s advanced highway network should be well-informed about certain rules and regulations for their own convenience.
The unique and magnificent landscape of Turkey is waiting to be explored by vacationers ready to hit the road!
Car Rental
Car rental companies located near airport and terminal exit gates, as well as in numerous city centers and holiday resorts, will provide you with the most appropriate vehicle for a pleasant car trip.
Traffic Lanes
Turkey drives on the right-hand side of the road, as in many other countries. Drivers who frequently check their mirrors will automatically improve their safety.
Seat Belt and Child Safety Seat
Drivers and passengers are legally required to fasten their seat belts as soon as they get into the car and to wear them until they arrive at their destination. Likewise, children under the age of 7 are legally required to be seated in child safety seats for their own safety.
Drink Driving
The legal alcohol limit for drivers is limited to 0.5 promilles since drink driving is prohibited in Turkey. Drivers convicted of driving over the legal alcohol limit risk having to pay a fine of 700 TL and the suspension of their driver’s license for six months.
Mobile (Cell) Phones
Drivers are not allowed to use mobile phones while driving for their own security and that of their passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited by law, and the penalty for breaking this law is a fine of 73 TL.
Traveling to Destinations Away from Tourist Centers
Turkey is like a riddle to be solved as it hides numerous interesting spots and towns in the interior regions waiting to be explored. It is advisable to make use of a GPS device and road map and to keep an eye on the road signs at all times.
Tolls
Some of Turkey’s major highways are toll highways that can be used in return for a small fee collected at automated HGS (fast pass system) and OGS (automatic pass system) stations located at the entrance and exit of toll roads.
Kuruçeşme, located on the European side of Istanbul, is a favored hangout for the city’s wealthy residents and visitors. Known for its luxurious waterfront properties and upscale restaurants, Kuruçeşme offers a sophisticated atmosphere paired with stunning views of the Bosphorus. This neighborhood is a popular destination for those seeking an exclusive and elegant experience in Istanbul.
Turkey, situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, follows the Eastern European Time (EET) zone. This time zone is GMT+2, meaning it is 2 hours ahead of London (Coordinated Universal Time (GMT/UTC)), 7 hours ahead of New York, and 10 hours ahead of Los Angeles, except during the spring-to-autumn Daylight Saving Time.
Turkish Time Zones: Eastern European Time (EET)
Standard Time (November to March)
- Turkey is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+2).
Daylight Saving Time (April to October)
- Turkey advances its clocks by one hour, shifting to GMT+3.
Daylight Saving Time in Turkey
- Begins: The last Sunday in March, with clocks turned ahead one hour.
- Ends: The last Sunday in October, with clocks turned back one hour.
Time Comparison
When it’s noon in Turkey, the local times in various global cities are as follows:
Location April-October November-March Istanbul & Ankara 12 noon 12 noon Paris, Rome 11 am 11 am London 10 am 10 am New York 5 am 5 am Los Angeles 2 am 2 am Hong Kong, Perth 6 pm 5 pm Sydney 8 pm 7 pm Auckland 10 pm 9 pm World Time Zone Map
A world time zone map can be highly beneficial for understanding global time differences, planning travel, or coordinating international meetings.
Yes, there may be daily withdrawal limits imposed by both your home bank and the ATM operator. It’s a good idea to check these limits in advance.
Visitors can withdraw money in Turkish Lira (TRY) as well as Euros (EUR) and U.S. Dollars (USD) from many ATMs across Turkey. However, Turkish Lira is the most commonly dispensed currency.
- Visit a Store: You can purchase a SIM card from official stores of Turkcell, Avea, or Vodafone. These stores are commonly found in airports, shopping malls, and city centers.
- Provide Identification: Be prepared to show your passport or another form of ID when purchasing a SIM card.
- Choose a Plan: Select a prepaid plan that suits your needs for calls, texts, and data.
Antalya is located on the Mediterranean Sea. This coastal city is situated along the Turkish Riviera, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sea, and cultural experiences.
Essential Contacts for a Safe Holiday
Turkey keeps evolving every day for the convenience of vacationers who want to spend a relaxing and pleasant holiday. Whether you’re exploring the bustling cities, enjoying the beautiful beaches, or adventuring in the great outdoors, it’s important to know the emergency numbers available to you in case of an emergency. The following is a list of emergency numbers that are available 24/7.
Major Emergency Numbers
112 Medical Emergency / Ambulance
For any medical emergencies requiring an ambulance, dial 112. This number connects you to emergency medical services across Turkey.
110 Fire
In case of a fire, dial 110 to reach the fire department. They will provide immediate assistance to control and extinguish fires.
155 Police
For any situation requiring police assistance, such as crimes, disturbances, or any other public safety concerns, dial 155.
154 Traffic
For traffic-related emergencies, accidents, or assistance on the road, dial 154 to connect with traffic services.
156 Gendarmerie
The Gendarmerie handles law enforcement duties in rural areas. Dial 156 for assistance in non-urban regions.
159 Highway Department
For any issues or emergencies on highways, such as accidents or obstructions, dial 159 to reach the highway department.
158 Coast Security
For emergencies along the coast or at sea, dial 158 to connect with the coast guard for immediate help.
113 Medical Care
For general medical care needs that are not life-threatening, dial 113.
114 Poison Emergency
In case of poisoning or suspected poisoning, dial 114 to reach the poison control center for immediate advice and assistance.
177 Forest Fire
For forest fires or related emergencies, dial 177 to reach the forest fire department for rapid response.
Conclusion
Having these emergency numbers handy ensures that you can get the help you need promptly in any emergency situation. Turkey is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all vacationers, with a robust emergency response system in place. Keep this list of emergency numbers accessible during your stay for peace of mind and a relaxing holiday.
Discover the best of travel Turkey. Explore top tourism spots, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, find tips on the best destinations, hotels, flights, and tours to make your Turkish adventure unforgettable. Dive into the wonders of tourism in Turkey and plan your perfect trip today!
Top Destinations in Turkey
Explore Turkey’s top destinations, from Istanbul’s vibrant streets to Cappadocia’s unique landscapes and Antalya’s beaches.
Trabzon
Trabzon, located on Turkey’s stunning Black Sea coast, is a [...]
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Bingöl
Bingöl, a city in Turkey’s eastern Anatolia region, is a [...]
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Siirt
Siirt, a city located in southeastern Turkey, is a blend [...]
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Karaman
Karaman, a city steeped in history and culture, is a [...]
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Manisa
Manisa, historically known as Magnesia, is a city in Turkey’s [...]
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Bursa
Bursa, Turkey, is a city steeped in history, culture, and [...]
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Van
Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Van, the city [...]
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Tunceli
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Giresun
Giresun: Nestled along the northeastern coast of Turkey, Giresun is [...]
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Çankırı
Çankırı, a city rich in history and culture, is located [...]
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Kırıkkale
Kırıkkale, a city in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, [...]
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Gümüşhane
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