Türkiye is full of vibrant destinations and unforgettable travel experiences. From its rich cultural heritage to its modern conveniences, this beautiful country has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or savouring delicious local cuisine, a few essential ‘travel hacks’ can make your trip even more enjoyable and help you navigate Türkiye like a pro.
Unlock History with Museum Passes
Türkiye’s museums are a gateway to its historical and cultural treasures. The best way to immerse yourself in this rich heritage is by getting a Museum Pass. This cost-effective card grants access to over 350 museums and archaeological sites across the country, allowing you to skip the lines and avoid the hassle of buying individual tickets. Each pass, available in various types depending on region, price, and validity period, is activated with your first museum visit. You can purchase them online or at ticket booths on-site, making it easy to explore the nation’s past.
Experience Türkiye by Train
While renting a car offers flexibility, travelling by train in Türkiye provides a unique and enchanting experience. The country’s extensive railway network, featuring high-speed trains and nostalgic routes, showcases stunning landscapes, history, and culture. Iconic rail tours like the Eastern Express, the new Mesopotamian Express, and the Diyarbakır Express, recognized by Time magazine as one of the “World’s Greatest Places of 2024”, transform your journey into an adventure where the trip itself becomes the destination.
Shop smart
Shopping in Türkiye offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences. Wander through historic bazaars like Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar for a taste of the old-world market atmosphere, or explore contemporary malls across the country. An added bonus: many purchases in Türkiye are tax-free. You can get tax refunds on purchases over 108 TL for items with an 8% tax rate and over 118 TL for those with an 18% tax rate. For more details, visit the GoTürkiye website.
Utilise Public Transportation
Türkiye’s modern transportation infrastructure makes getting around a breeze. With direct flights from around the globe, arriving at one of the country’s airports is simple. From there, taxis and shuttle buses are readily available to whisk you into the city. Public transportation, including extensive subway systems, buses, streetcars, ferries, and trains, offers convenient options for exploring urban areas. Simply purchase a travel pass valid for most public transport vehicles, and use map apps on your phone to find your way to your desired destination.
Eat Like a Local
Turkish cuisine is a feast for the senses, with each region offering unique dishes and flavours. Beyond the famous kebabs and döner, explore regional specialties and street food for a true taste of Türkiye. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, a spread featuring fresh bread, cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggs, honey, and jam, all accompanied by aromatic Turkish tea. For lunch or dinner, visit an “esnaf lokantası” (local diner), where you can choose from a variety of dishes at a fixed price per plate. These eateries, along with many restaurants, are open late, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious meal at any time.
Experience Turkish Hospitality
One of the most cherished aspects of Turkish culture is its warm hospitality. Locals are known for their friendliness and willingness to help. Whether you need directions or assistance with transportation, don’t hesitate to ask. You might even find yourself invited for a cup of tea during a friendly chat. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making it easier to communicate and connect with locals.
