Have you heard the expression “East meets West”? Turkey fits this description perfectly because it is geographically part Asia and part Europe. As a matter of fact, Turkey is the 6th most visited destination in the world! It has everything that you can imagine, picture-perfect beaches and mountainous landscapes and enchanting colourful streets filled with tiny boutiques that are ideal for a hot cup of Turkish coffee as well as savouring on a Shish kebab. Merhaba! Is a greeting you’ll hear from the down to earth locals, coupled with pleasant smiles. Turkish people are known for their hospitality and generosity. A holiday to Turkey is an excellent idea if you want to explore all the splendour, charm, history and culture one place can possibly offer, and I believe that a trip here is the simplest, safest, and most enthralling way to do so!
The best time to go on holiday to Turkey
Turkey is a stunning country where history meets adventure, not to mention the coastlines surrounded by cliffs, vibrant cities and enormous deserts that will astonish and fascinate you. This place is very diverse and trying to figure out when to visit, depends on what you’re planning to do and where you like to go.
So, whether you’re looking for a warm summer holiday, winter break or you want to explore the culture and history of Turkey, keep reading to find out the best time to go on a holiday to Turkey!
March to May
So, whether you’re looking for a warm summer holiday, winter break or you want to explore the culture and history of Turkey, keep reading to find out the best time to go on a holiday to Turkey!
June to September
Summer falls from June to September, which means the weather is hot and is perfect for a beach holiday in Turkey.
October to November
Fall is also a brilliant time to travel around Turkey. Although temperatures are still a bit warm. The days are shorter, and there’s a slight chance of rain.
NOTE: The International Festival of Wine takes place in the city of Cappodocia at the end of October. It’s the best time for all you wine lovers as there are many wine tastings at local vineyards.
December to February
The wintertime in Turkey can be considerably chilly and rainy. Snow is not unusual during this time, and as a result, it creates gorgeous views.
Have you been on holiday to Turkey? If you have, during what time of the year did you go? I’d love to hear all about it. So, let me know the highlights of your trip in the comments below!
Turkey at a glance
Turkey has all the elements you need to have an adventurous and equally relaxing holiday. Although it’s an overwhelming task to work out an itinerary when you’re on holiday in Turkey, with good planning, you’ll be able to see many of the significant highlights. However, if you need any help in planning a holiday to Turkey, I highly recommend Travel Center U.K., who brings forth ideal travel solutions for all your travel needs.
Things to do when you’re on holiday in Turkey
Visit old Turkish towns
Turkey is bestowed with many old towns. Ancient ruins, Ottoman houses, cobblestone streets, market squares as well as charming bars and restaurants.
Unwind in a Turkish bath
Unwind traditionally in a Turkish bath A.K.A. Hammam. A cleansing treatment as you detox in a hot room, then be splashed with cold water, leaving you feeling fresh in Turkish style.
Take a hot air balloon ride
Soar above Cappadocia in a hot air balloon. Be amazed by the incredible views of rock valleys, cliffs and hills as you take to the skies with many other balloons around.
Go island hopping
Step out of the mainland and explore the stunning bays of the luscious, unspoiled islands of Göcek, a rural town, located between Dalaman and Fethiye.
The Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is one of the most significant and iconic tourist destinations in Istanbul. An age-old architectural marvel studded with over 20,000 handmade unique ceramic tiles!
Antalya
A lively Mediterranean hub with the best beaches and home to one of the country’s best sites, the Antalya Museum.
Ölüdeniz
Ölüdeniz houses Turkey’s most famous beach, a postcard-worthy scenery. Ölüdeniz is also one of the prime paragliding destinations in the world.
Pamukkale
A very famous natural wonder in Turkey, the white-coloured travertine landscape, offers gorgeous vistas. The ruins of an ancient Roman spa town, Hierapolis, is another reason to visit this fantastic destination.
Hagia Sofia
Hagia Sophia a historic site that served as an Orthodox Cathedral which was converted into a mosque. Visitors can observe the unique monument that bestrides religion and the hands of time.
Mount Nemrut
Mount Nemrut is a top tourist destination in East Turkey. A popular archaeological site, with the ruins of once enormous statues of giant stone heads.
NOTE: The best time to visit here is at sunrise, to watch the statues as they appear out of the dark dawn.
Ephesus
Ephesus is a city of ruins of the colossal monuments of Roman cities in the Mediterranean region.
The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the most traditional and largest markets in the world consisting of over 3,000 shops, and it should not be missed when you’re on holiday in Turkey.
Going on holiday to Turkey post COVID-19
Turkey has been a popular travel destination. But is it possible for holidaymakers get there amid the ongoing situation? Read on to find out everything you need to know before you go on holiday to Turkey.
The FCO issued warnings on all non-essential international travel in March, but this has been lifted for more than 80 destinations. The good news is that British tourists are officially allowed back in Turkey without cancelling their travel insurance! However, there are still many factors to consider before going on holiday to Turkey.
Turkey’s international borders are open to foreign travellers who meet these Turkish immigration rules.
- All Airline passengers must wear face masks, complete passenger locator forms supplied by the airline, and take a COVID-19 medical test upon arrival.
- The medical screening covers temperature checks, and anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 will undergo a PCR test.
The Government in Turkey has implemented steps to limit the spread of COVID-19.
- From 8 September, it is compulsory to wear a face mask at all times outside your residence in Turkey.
- Tukey is made up of 81 provinces, and each region may have different rules in place. Before crossing district or province borders, check for the latest updates.
- Passengers should follow social distancing guidelines with the set capacity limits on public transport.
Always, always check the FCO travel advice before you book a holiday to Turkey (or anywhere for that matter). Be updated before and after travelling, as the situation keeps changing fast.
Packing essentials when going on holiday to Turkey
- A sweater or blazer
- Sufficient socks & underwear
- Jeans or pants
- T-shirts
- Long sleeve outer layer tops
- 1-2 long skirts or dresses
- A Hat
- Pyjamas
- 1 pair of walking shoes, sandals & flip flops
- Swimsuit
- Electronics
NOTE: Turkey works on 220 volts, 50 Hz. The plugs are round-prong European-style.
Don’t forget:
- Tablet, phone, computer, & necessary chargers
- Power adapters and converters
- Portable battery pack
- Power cables & cords
Daypacks
A firm, light daypack with comfortable straps is an essential piece of gear for your holiday to Turkey. It should have the following:
- Ample water
- Liquids bag
- A change of clothes
- Headphones
- Sunglasses
- Antibacterial hand sanitizer & medicines, including something for upset stomachs
- Wet wipes
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- A pair of socks
- Scarf, wrap or travel blanket
- An external battery pack
- A Turkish map and a phrasebook or app
- Your passport, wallet and other valuables
- Electronics
Not to forget to bring your enthusiasm, street smarts, common sense, a good sense of humour and good manners. This will be your best chance for a wonderful experience while you’re on holiday in Turkey!
