Türkiye Travel Istanbul, Cappadocia and the Turquoise Coast

Türkiye has been a crossroads of civilizations for thousands of years. Byzantine and Ottoman Istanbul, the Greco-Roman cities of the Aegean, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the ancient site of Göbekli Tepe, often described as the world's oldest temple, give it one of the richest heritages anywhere. Explore the story in our guide to Türkiye's history and culture.

It is also a country of extraordinary hospitality and food, and its luxury hotel scene is one of the strongest in the region. Istanbul alone has a remarkable collection of palace hotels on the Bosphorus, while the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts offer beach resorts, private villas and the classic blue cruise aboard a wooden gulet.

Visa. US citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport should be valid for at least six months.

Dress. Istanbul and the resorts are cosmopolitan. Cover shoulders and knees in mosques, and women should carry a scarf to cover their hair; mosques provide wraps if needed.

Alcohol. Widely available in hotels, restaurants and bars. Türkiye produces fine wines from native grapes, and rakı is the national drink with meze.

Ramadan. Life continues normally in tourist areas, and restaurants stay open. Evenings bring special iftar menus and festive markets. Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin around February 8, depending on the moon.

Money. Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Because the lira moves quickly, many luxury hotels quote rates in euros or US dollars. A private full-day guide in Istanbul costs roughly US$250 to US$400; a sunrise balloon flight in Cappadocia from about US$250 per person.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for Istanbul and Cappadocia, with comfortable temperatures and blooming tulips in Istanbul in April. The coast is at its best from late May to October, with July and August the peak of the Bodrum social season. Winter brings quiet museums in Istanbul and the magic of snow on Cappadocia's fairy chimneys.

A ten-day journey might begin with four nights in Istanbul for the Old City, the Bosphorus and the Grand Bazaar. Fly to Cappadocia for two nights, with a balloon flight at dawn, a visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum and an underground city. Continue to Izmir for Ephesus, then finish with three nights in Bodrum or on the Aegean coast. Families will find tips in our family travel guide.