The short answer

Turkey is more than three times the size of the UK, so for long distances fly. Domestic flights are frequent and good value; long-distance coaches cover everywhere else. Inside cities, use public transport or app-booked taxis.

Between regions

How Best for Good to know
Domestic flights Istanbul ↔ coast or Cappadocia Turkish Airlines, AJet, Pegasus and SunExpress; most flights are 1–1½ hours
Long-distance coach Anywhere, especially between coastal towns Comfortable, with seat service; overnight routes save a hotel night
High-speed train (YHT) Istanbul ↔ Ankara ↔ Konya Fast and modern, but the network doesn’t reach the main resorts
Dolmuş (shared minibus) Short hops between towns and beaches Flag one down and pay the driver, ideally in cash
Ferries and gulets Bosphorus, Princes’ Islands, coastal hops, Greek islands Day trips to Kos, Rhodes and other islands need your passport — see Entry requirements

In Istanbul

  • Buy an Istanbulkart (contactless travel card) from machines at stations and top it up with cash or card. It works on metro, trams, buses, ferries and the Marmaray rail tunnel under the Bosphorus.
  • The T1 tram links Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar area and Kabataş.
  • Ferries across the Bosphorus are cheap, scenic and often faster than the road.
  • Taxis — use a taxi app or a registered yellow taxi, and make sure the meter is on.

Taxis and transfers

In resorts, taxis are plentiful but often charge set prices rather than metered fares — agree the price before you get in. A pre-booked airport transfer is usually the easiest option, especially with children or late arrivals.

Hiring a car

A car is the best way to explore the Turquoise Coast, Cappadocia’s valleys or the countryside around Ephesus.

  • UK licence holders: you need a 1968 International Driving Permit (bought in the UK before you travel) or a notarised Turkish translation of your UK licence.
  • Irish licence holders: bring your full Irish driving licence and ask your hire company whether they also want an International Driving Permit.
  • Traffic drives on the right.
  • Most motorways and some bridges use electronic tolls (HGS). Hire cars normally have a tag fitted — ask how tolls are charged.
  • Don’t drink and drive. Police can fine you and suspend your licence for 6 months.
  • Expect police checkpoints on main roads: slow down and follow instructions.
  • Main roads between cities are good; take extra care at night and on rural roads.