First Trip to Turkey: A Practical Starter Guide

Turkey stretches across two continents and rewards every kind of traveler. This short guide covers the essentials for planning a first visit.

When to Visit

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) bring mild weather to Istanbul and the coasts, and comfortable hiking conditions in Cappadocia.

Getting Around

Domestic flights connect Istanbul to Antalya, Bodrum and Kayseri in about an hour. Intercity buses are comfortable and inexpensive.

What to Eat

Do not leave without trying a proper kebap, fresh simit, and Turkish breakfast.