If you’re visiting Turkey for the first time, here’s how to make your trip easy, safe and unforgettable. From must-do experiences and sample itineraries to visas, money and getting around, everything a first-timer from the UK or Ireland needs is on this page.

Must-try experiences on your first visit

The moments people remember long after they fly home.

Ferry crossing the Bosphorus in IstanbulCruise the BosphorusSail between Europe and Asia past palaces and mansions.Hot-air balloons over Cappadocia at sunriseBalloons over CappadociaRise above the fairy chimneys at sunrise.Marble basins in a traditional Turkish hammamTry a Turkish hammamA centuries-old ritual of steam, scrub and foam.Inside the Grand Bazaar, IstanbulExplore the Grand BazaarThousands of shops under painted vaults.

What to do on your first trip

Start with the classics, then make it your own.

Pamukkale travertine terracesTop 10 things to doThe essential sights and experiences.Paragliding over ÖlüdenizWhere to goCities, beaches and regions compared.Aerial view of Kaputaş BeachBest beachesFrom the Blue Lagoon to hidden coves.Library of Celsus, EphesusUNESCO sitesEphesus, Troy, Göbekli Tepe and more.

Traditional Turkish experiences

Get a real feel for Turkish life.

Chef grilling döner kebab in IstanbulTurkish food to tryFrom simit to İskender kebab.Baklava in a Gaziantep pastry shopSweet treatsBaklava, künefe and Turkish delight.Turkish tea in a tulip glassTea, culture and customsWhat surprises first-time visitors.

First time in Turkey itineraries

Ready-made routes you can follow or adapt.

Istanbul and the Bosphorus3 days in IstanbulThe perfect city break.Hot-air balloons over Cappadocia at sunriseOne week in TurkeyIstanbul, Cappadocia and the coast.Paragliding over ÖlüdenizTwo weeks in TurkeyCities, sights and beach time.

Plan around the seasons

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for sightseeing and warm-sea swimming without peak crowds. July and August are hottest and busiest; winter suits city breaks and snowy Cappadocia. Find out more in our best time to visit Turkey guide.

Travel tips for first-time visitors

Do I need a visa?No visa for UK and Irish citizens for up to 90 days. Check your passport validity.Money and tippingPay in lira, use a fee-free card and tip around 10%.Health and insuranceGHIC and EHIC don’t work in Turkey — get travel insurance.Essential informationPlugs, time zone, phones, water and more.

Get around easily and safely

Travel to TurkeyAirports and airlines from the UK and Ireland.Getting around TurkeyDomestic flights, coaches, ferries and car hire.Staying safeCommon scams, local laws and emergency numbers.Embassies and consulatesWhere to get help from your country.

More ideas for first-time visitors

Ancient ruins of SideFamily holidaysTen easy wins for all ages.Simit seller on an Istanbul streetTurkish phrasesThe words that earn smiles.Bodrum town and castle by the seaBoat trips and baysExplore the Turquoise Coast by gulet.

Travel greener in Turkey

  • Use trains, coaches and ferries where you can — the high-speed rail network links Istanbul, Ankara and Konya.
  • Refill a water bottle where filtered water is available and say no to plastic bags in markets.
  • Choose locally owned guesthouses, restaurants and guides so your money stays in the community.
  • Respect protected areas such as turtle-nesting beaches at Dalyan and Patara: no lights or umbrellas on the sand at night.
  • Stick to marked paths at ancient sites and in national parks.

FAQs: insider tips for first-time visitors

Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?

No, not if you hold a full British or Irish passport and are visiting for tourism or business for up to 90 days in any 180 days. Your passport needs at least 150 days left on it when you arrive.

What’s the best way to get around?

Fly between regions — domestic flights are frequent and good value. Use trams, metro and ferries in Istanbul, and dolmuş minibuses or taxis on the coast.

How many days do I need?

Three days covers Istanbul’s highlights; a week lets you add Cappadocia and a few days on the coast; two weeks gives you time to relax.

Is Turkey expensive?

Food, transport and local services are generally cheaper than in the UK or Ireland. Hotels in Istanbul and the resorts in peak season can cost as much as at home.

Can I drink the tap water?

Most visitors drink bottled water, which is cheap and sold everywhere.

Will my phone work?

Yes, but roaming can be expensive. Check your network’s Turkey add-on or use a travel eSIM.