12-Day Egypt & Turkey: Cairo, Istanbul and Ephesus
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Country travel guide
Discover Turkey
Turkey is a destination defined by its mix of Roman ruins, Ottoman history, and distinct geological landscapes like the travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Travelers visit to see the architectural layers of Istanbul and the well-preserved ancient streets of Ephesus.
Photo: REHBER0770 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Turkey in brief
Turkey is a destination defined by its mix of Roman ruins, Ottoman history, and distinct geological landscapes like the travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Travelers visit to see the architectural layers of Istanbul and the well-preserved ancient streets of Ephesus.
Why visit Turkey
You can move through centuries of history by visiting Istanbul's Hagia Sophia or walking the ancient streets of Ephesus on the Aegean coast. The rock-cut churches of Göreme in Cappadocia and the mineral terraces of Pamukkale offer very different landscapes. These sites are spread across the country, so you will need to plan for travel time between regions to see how each one differs.
In Istanbul's Sultanahmet district, places like the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern are located near each other but serve different roles. Some are active mosques with specific entry rules, while others are historical museums. Giving yourself enough time at each spot allows you to experience the specific atmosphere of these landmarks without rushing through a checklist.
History, tips, best time to go and what to see.
Read the full Turkey guideWhat to see
Top Places to Visit in Turkey
Hagia Sophia
Plan a respectful visit to Hagia Sophia: tourist access, prayer times, dress, what to see from the dome to the mosaics and nearby sights.
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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
How to visit Istanbul's Blue Mosque: prayer times, entry, dress code, what to look for inside, respectful visiting, and a Sultanahmet walking plan.
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Topkapi Palace
A practical guide to Topkapi Palace in Istanbul: timing, tickets, and the Harem, a route through the four courtyards, the Treasury, the views, and nearby sights to combine.
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Basilica Cistern
How to visit Istanbul's Basilica Cistern: beating the lines, the route past the columns and Medusa heads, photography tips, and combining it with Hagia Sophia.
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Göreme Open-Air Museum
A practical guide to Cappadocia's rock-cut churches: timing, a route through the site, the Dark Church and Tokalı Church, and how to pair the visit.
ExploreWhat to book
Recommended Turkey tours
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14-Day Egypt & Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Pamukkale
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13-Day Egypt & Turkey: Nile Cruise and Istanbul
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Plan your visit
Useful travel information for Turkey
Best time to visit
The most comfortable months for exploring archaeological sites and walking in cities are April, May, September, and October. Summer months are peak season for the coastal regions.
How many days?
Plan for 10 to 14 days if you want to combine Istanbul with the Aegean coast and central Anatolia. A shorter stay of 5 to 7 days is usually enough for a deep dive into Istanbul alone.
Getting around
Domestic flights are an efficient way to travel between major regions like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Izmir. Within Istanbul, the public tram and ferry systems are reliable ways to avoid road traffic.
FAQs
Turkey FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Entry rules depend on your passport and can change, so please check the official source before you travel.
What is the dress code for visiting mosques?
Both men and women should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees before entering. Women are also required to cover their hair with a scarf, and everyone must remove their shoes at the entrance.
Is Turkey safe for solo travelers?
Turkey is a common destination for solo travelers, and major tourist areas have a significant security presence. As in any large city, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit areas at night.
Can I drink the tap water in Turkey?
It is generally recommended to drink bottled or filtered water rather than water straight from the tap. While tap water is often treated, the taste and mineral content can be unpleasant for those not used to it.
What is the best way to pay for things?
The local currency is the Turkish lira, and it is useful to carry cash for small purchases and markets. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and modern shops in major cities.
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