How to Travel Turkey from USA?
Hello, fellow travelers! If you are planning to travel from the USA to the enchanting lands of Turkey, you’re in for a treat. Turkey is a country rich with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just in need of some beautiful scenery, Turkey has a lot of thing to offer. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make your journey from the USA to Turkey smooth and enjoyable.
Woman in Natural travertine pools and terraces in Pamukkale
1. Plan Your Trip: When to Visit and What to See
Best Time to Visit: Turkey’s climate varies widely, but generally, the best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, and you’ll avoid the high tourist season of summer.
Top Destinations: Start your trip in Istanbul that the city meets the East & West. Visit the historic Hagia Sophia, the mesmerizing Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Don’t miss Cappadocia, famous for its fairy-tale landscapes and hot air balloon rides. Other must-see places for visitors from USA include the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the white travertine pools of Pamukkale, and the unique beaches along Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
Woman Tourist in Airport
2. Getting There: Flights and Entry Requirements
Flights: Several airlines offer direct flights from major US cities to Istanbul. You can check out flights on airlines like Turkish Airlines, which often provides competitive prices and convenient schedules.
Visas: As a US citizen, you will need a visa to enter Turkey. Fortunately, getting a Turkish visa is quite straightforward. You can apply for an e-Visa online before your trip here. The process is quick, usually taking less than 48 hours.
Most Recommended Turkey Tours
3. Accommodations and Getting Around
Where to Stay: Turkey offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels in Istanbul like the Çırağan Palace Kempinski to charming cave hotels in Cappadocia. For budget travelers, hostels and guesthouses are plentiful.
Cappadocia Goreme Hotels Outside View
Transportation: Within cities, public transport is reliable and inexpensive. For travel between cities, domestic flights are often the most convenient option, but buses and trains are available and offer scenic views of the countryside.
4. Culture and Customs
Language: The official language is Turkish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Turkish phrases will be appreciated.
Cultural Etiquette: Turkish culture is warm and hospitable. When visiting mosques, dress modestly and be respectful. It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and it’s polite to accept tea if offered.
Turkish Baklava
5. Cuisine
Must-Try Dishes: Turkish cuisine is a feast for the senses. Try local specialties like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. For a unique experience, have a traditional Turkish breakfast, a lavish spread of cheeses, olives, bread, and tea.
6. Safety and Health
Travel Insurance: It’s always wise to have travel insurance. Make sure your policy covers international healthcare and potential travel disruptions.
Local Laws: Be aware of local laws and customs. For instance, smoking is banned in closed places and many public areas, and some cultural norms may be more conservative than those in USA.
Couple Tourist Traveling
7. Useful Tips
- Currency: The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. You can exchange currency at various exchange offices located throughout the country. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, although credit cards are widely accepted.
- Connectivity: Consider buying a Turkish SIM card to stay connected affordably.
- Packing: Depending on when you visit, pack appropriately. Summers can be hot, and winters in certain areas can be quite cold and rainy.
8. Guided Tours: Discovering Turkey’s Treasures
To truly immerse yourself in Turkey’s wonders, consider joining guided tours that unlock the secrets of iconic destinations like Hagia Sophia and Cappadocia. Experienced guides create a special experience, turning you into an active participant in the fantastic stories you hear and see, visiting the ruins of ancient cities or otherworldly landscapes. Whether it is a large group tour or a small private one, guided tours help you learn much more about the visited places and stay connected with what you learned from your trip to Turkey.
Starting a journey to Turkey from the USA can seem daunting, but with the right preparation, it will surely be a memorable experience. Guided Istanbul Tours is willing to help you every step of the way, providing expert advice and optimal solutions to make your trip to Turkey and exploration of its historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food meaningful and unforgettable. Whether you are interested in visiting Istanbul or to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, contact us through our website or our email, and we will make your journey unforgettable for you. Have a safe trip and enjoy discovering new places!
Resources & Releated Links:
-
- For booking flights directly from the USA to Istanbul and other Turkish cities: Book Flights
- For official tourist information and updates on cultural events and regulations: Visit Turkey Tourism
- To check the current weather and forecast for different regions in Turkey: Weather in Turkey
