Friendly Planet Travel (click for homepage) 800-555-5765  Mon - Fri  9:30 - 5 ET

Friendly Planet Fast Facts - Quick Answers for Travellers

Fast Facts Turkey!

What is the weather like in Turkey?

The coast of Turkey is temperate, warm, and humid in the summer. Eastern Turkey has short summers and bitterly cold winters. Central Anatolia is dry and hot in the summer, rainy and snowy in the winter. If you plan to visit beaches, June thru September is the best time to travel. Southeastern Turkey is very dry and extremely hot in the summer.

April-May and September-October are the best months for touring with the least amount of rainfall and the most comfortable temperatures. For an updated forecast in Turkey, click here.

What is required for entry into Turkey?

U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport, visa, and proof of onward passage. Friendly Planet can help you obtain a visa, just click here.

Are there any health precautions I should take?

There is no risk for malaria in Istanbul. You should check with your doctor about possible vaccinations against typhoid and hepatitis. Take along plenty of insect repellent!

CDC Website link: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationTurkey.aspx
WHO website link: http://www.who.int/countries/en/#208

What is the currency?

The currency in Turkey is the lira. One American dollar is worth approximately 1,467,000 lira. For updated currency exchange rates, click here.

Tipping: Tip 10% in expensive restaurants even if a service charge has been added. Tip porters 3 million lira, and tour guides around $5-$10 US.

ATMs: ATMs are found all over in major cities. Beware of ATMs in secluded areas.

 

What items should I shop for in Turkey?

The best items to shop for in Turkey are handwoven rugs and kilims, leather goods, silk, alabaster, copperware and brassware, ceramics, Iznik tiles, brass samovars, and meerschaum pipes. Be cautious of “antiques,” some are fakes. If you do buy an antique, be sure to obtain an official permit to export it.

 

What are the voltage requirements in Turkey?

Voltage: 230 V; Plugs C & F. You will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Click here for more information about electrical standards around the world.

Search our tours

more options

Lend $25. Change a life. Join the Friendly Planet Kiva micro-loan team

Memberships & Endorsements American Society of Travel Agents International Airlines Travel Agent Network Better Business Bureau Online Reliability Program (click for report) Dunn & Bradstreet