Itinerary

Your package tour in Turkey which starts from Istanbul offers you to explore the favourite destination of the West part of Turkey. You will have a walk into the history in the old streets and museums of Istanbul, Ephesus and Antalya; and you will see amazing shapes of the nature in Cappadocia and Pamukkale.

• Starting Points: Turkey/Istanbul
• Day 1 Istanbul

  Arrive in Istanbul airport and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

• Day 2 Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Square
  Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Square

  After a good breakfast around 08:15am we will take you to St.Hagia Sophia. Hagia Sophia is one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture because of its magnificent artistic value and its interior is decorated with mosaics, marble pillars and colourful coverings.The temple itself was so richly and artistically decorated that Justinian proclaimed “Solomon, I have outdone thee “ Justinian himself had overseen the completion of the greatest cathedral ever built up to that time, and it was to remain the largest cathedral for 1,000 years more up until the completion of the cathedral in Seville in Spain. Just across from St. Sophia is the Blue Mosque, which is famously recognizable its grand scale with having its six minarets that were built between 1609 and 1616 Sultan Ahmet I had decorated the inside with 21,043 tiles from Iznik in a dominant blue colour because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles is how the name of ‘ Blue Mosque’ came to be. You will also go on to take a visit to the Ancient Hippodrome which was the scene for the chariot races, there is also 3 monuments grounded here which are named; The Obelisk of Theodosius, The Bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine. We will continue onwards to see Topkapi Palace;the great palace of the Ottoman sultans dating from the 15th to the 19th centuries and hosts an exquisite collection of cyrstal, silver, and Chinese porcelain. You are also able to find here the robes that were worn by the sultans and their families, famous jewels of the Imperial Treasury, miniatures, and the Holy Mantle; enshrining relics of the Prophet Mohammed. To conclude your day of touring there will be a short drive to the exotic Grand Bazaar (Closed on Sundays and at Feast days), which is one of the most colourful institutions of Istanbul. (overnight in Istanbul).

• Day 3 Istanbul: Bosphorus Boat Ride
  Bosphorus Boat Ride

  After a good breakfast around 08:30am we will take you to visit the Spice Market/Spice Bazaar. You will notice that the air in here is filled with the enticing aromas of cinnamon, caraway, saffron, mint, thyme and every other concievable herbs and spices that you can name, once we are at the Spice Market you will be given free time so you can tak yourself around and explore, and of course you will be able to buy yourself some of the fresh herbs and spices that you can strongly smell for take back home. Onwards with our journey will take us next to joing the Bosphorus Tour By Boat, This boat trip is very traditional excursion and as we sail along the coastline you will be able to understand why, the narrow waterway seperates the 2 continents that are Europe and Asia. The shore is lined with old wooden villas, palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages, during the excursion you will pass by some of the most amazing buildings such as the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace, the parks and imperial pavillions of Yildiz Palace. You will also be able to see Ciragan Palace which is 300 meters of its is marble facade facing the shoreline. Rumeli Fortress, was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Istanbul and was completed in only four months its purpose was to control and protect Bosphorus from any raiders/attack. Rumeli Fortess is one of the most beautiful works of military architecture to be seen anywhere in the world. Also Beylerbeyi Palace, which was the summer residence of the ottoman sultans and with its orginal furniture and magnificent gardens with the Harem and can be seen the Asian side of Istanbul. As we approach Bosphorus Bridge it truly shows a unique change from one continent to the other (Asia to Europe). After we will be able to see the Camlica Hill that is the highest point in istanbul and as you reach the top of it you can take a rest to admire the magnificent panorama of Mystical Istanbul and also Bosphours with its beautiful gardens, landscaped in a traditional style. (overnight in Istanbul).

• Day 4 Cappadocia: Devrent Valley, Goreme Open Air Museum, Fairy Chimneys
  Devrent Valley, Goreme Open Air Museum, Fairy Chimneys

  You will be picked up from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your catch flight to Kayseri. As you arrive in Kayseri we will take you to Cappadocia. The first visit of the day will be to Devrent Valley; Devrent Valley is also known by the name of ‘Imagination Valley’ this valley has none of the cave churches, Byzantine frescoes or Roman citadel ruins that are famous throughout the rest of Cappadocia; but dont be put off as what it does have is very unique and extraordinary landscape shapes that are formed in many kinds of animals, so let your imagination run away with you and see what you animals you can spot, it will most certainly make you laugh with wonder. Our next visit will be to Pasabag (Monk’s Valley) where you will be able to take a look at the mushroom shaped fairy chimneys, these chimneys are very interesting structures and were formed due to the harder rock material been deposited above. The valley gets the nickname Monks valley because of the ascetic monks who came here as early as the 5th century and lived hermit lifestyles here. It was a so called ‘stylite’ way of living, from the greek work stylos, meaning pillar the christian monks built dwellings inside the pillars and its where they lived, fasted and prayed. After discovering Pasabag we will then head over to the town of Avanos, Avanos is set on the banks of Kizilirmak which is translated to ‘The Red River’. We will first start with the old village of Avanos that winds up the hills leading away from the town it truely is a beautiful magical maze of old stone houses, some that have been restored over time and some that have been converted to other purposes. In some of the abandoned houses the features oftraditional Ottoman architecture can still be seen along with ancient decorations, motifs and murals. You will also get the chance to participate in a hands on pottery work shop. We will then take a lunch break ( thats included). After lunch we will proceed to the Goreme Open Air Museum, this museum has incredible rock formations and the most fascinating rock cut churches, you will definately enjoy your time exploring the depth of Goreme and im certain that you will need extra camera film. Our last stop for today will be to Uchisar which is a village perched on a steep rock formation, this town provides some of the most dramatic panoramas of the astonishing Cappadocia that you will never want to leave. As the day comes to an end you will be taken to a hotel in Cappadocia where you will be able to get a good nights rest.

  

• Day 5 Cappadocia: Oz Konak Underground City, Pigeon Valley
  Oz Konak Underground City, Pigeon Valley

  Today first we will visit Red Valley and Rose Valley. Red Valley has to be one of the nicest and most beautiful places to go walking in Cappadocia. The two valleys are next to each other and are easily combined. Once in Rose Valley you don’t want to miss the Hacli Church and the Ayvali Church, both of which have astounding painted decorations one the interior. Afterwards we will take a visit to the old Christian Village of Cavusin, followed by a tour to Pigeon Valley, the path through Pigeon valley offers spectacular views of the natural cliffs and the man
  
  made caves, it passes through a few tunnels that have been carved into the rockside. Finally we will visit Kaymakli underground City and Ortahisar Castle, here in Kaymakli underground city there is 8 levels of the underground city that date from 6th to 9th centuries and 5 of which are open to the public. The tunnels, cellers, store rooms, stables have all been exacvated from the soft volcanic rock they are absolutely astonishing on your eyes. Castle of Ortahisar is situated at 86 m height cave in the period of Eti and is the most pronounced structure of Nevsehir. During your today today you will have 1 hour free so if you wish you can take some refreshments and take the time to relax. Our adventure through Cappadocia will come to an end around 17:00 pm for today, you will then be taken back to your hotel for the evening to be yours. After our time in Cappadocia is complete we will then maake our way back to the hotel for the evening.
  
  

• Day 6 Kusadasi: Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis
  Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis

  Today you will be transferred to Kayseri airport for your flight to Izmir. As you arrive in Izmir airport we will transfer you to Selcuk for visit Ephesus and Virgin Mary House. The day will beging by taking a tour to the Ancient City of Ephesus where you will see one of the most spectacular excavations to ever exist in the world, you will have the chance see also the Odeon, The Fountain of Trajan, the stream baths of Scholastika, the Temple of Hadrian, the Grand Theater and last but no means the least the very impressive library of Ephesus. The Ephesus library is adorned with columns and statues and is still in relatively excellent condition, by standing in the middle of the Library or taking a walk down the main street in Ephesus you will feel like you have stepped back in time amongst the romans and the visuals here are fantastic to see. Also within Ephesus is The Grand Theater where Saint Paul preached its believed to be the largest outdoor theater in the ancient world with a capacity of 25,000 seats. The last and perhaps the most important, site in Selcuk is the great Temple of Artemis (Diana) , which is one of the Seventh Wonders of the Ancient World. The Ephesus Artemis was a goddess of fertility and was often pictured draped with eggs or multiple breasts as symbols of fertility. Our tour today will come to an end after visiting the Mosque of Isa Bey, which was built in the 19th century, it was also used as a caravanserai, it definately is a perfect architectural building that you must
  
  see. After exploring around Ephesus we will make a stop for lunch so you can recharge and get ready for the second part of the tour. After lunch is when we will go to see The House of Virgin Mary which is situated on the top of Bulbul Mountain, the house was discovered back in the 19 th century. Catherina Emmerich (1775:1824), an invalid German nun who had never visited Ephesus went on to describe in great detail the house and its location which she had been known to have seen in a vision. It is also believed that St.John brought Mary (the mother of Jesus) to Ephesus sometime between AD 37/48 and its the place she spent her last years of her life. As the tour for today comes to an end we will then transfer you back to a hotel in Kusadasi for spend the night.
  
  

• Day 7 Pamukkale: Hierapolis Ancient City
  Hierapolis Ancient City

  Your day will start by firstly seeing the Hierapolis City which can also be known as ‘Holy City’ and just outside the main entrance is the Necropolis (Grevyard), with more than 1200 tombs and sarcophagi the people who wished to have been buried here believed that bee within close proximity to the hot springs and vapor-emiting that the cracks would ease their trip to the Underworld. Among the tombs lies the Martyrium which is a octagonal 5th centruy edifice believed to have been erected upon the site where St.Philip was martyred in 80 CE. Hierapolis CityBath The springs of Hierapolis were particularly popular among vacationing Romans. The cities bath’s had a glossy marble interior that has now been converted into a mediocre Archaelogical Museum. You will notice that carved into the side of the mountain is the monstrous Grand Theater that dominates the Vista of Hierapolis, almost all of the seating area which had a capacity for 25.000 is still intact and so are various ornately sculpted decorative elements adorning the 3rd century CE.
  
  After seeing Heirapolis we will then take a short stroll over to Pamukkale when translated means ‘Cotton Castle’ and has been drawing the weary and the curious from all around the world to its thermal springs for more than 23 centuries. The Turkish name refers to the extraordinary surface of the snow white cliffs, shaped over millennia by the accumulation of calcium deposited by mineral springs. Legend has it that the formations are actually solidified cotton (the area’s principal crop) that was left out to dry by giants. Dripping slowly down a vast mountainside, mineral rich water foams and collects in bowls that terrace the decline, spilling over petrified cascades of stalacties into milky pools below. The site of ancient Hierapolis and the accompanying museums are overshadowed by the springs but are nevertheless fascinating.You shouldn’t leave Pamukkale without having a healing dip in the sacred fountain of Cleopatra’s pool.
  
  Cleopatras Pool has warm clear fizzy water that bubbles from the springs source, but in these days has now blocked off to prevent divers from disappearing into its hidden depths. On the bottom surface of the pool you can clearly see the Ancient remains of the Roman columns Cleopatras Pool is an Oasis. After taking a walk along the terraces we will take a short walk to During todays tour you will have one hour free break time to rest take in the views, and of course if you like you can take some refreshments from the cafeteria on site. At the end of todays adventure we will then make our way back to Kusadasi for your overnight stay.
  
  

• Day 8 Antalya

  After breakfast you will depart for Izmir airport. You will take a flight to Antalya according to current flight schedule. We will meet you at Antalya airport and you will be taken to a hotel so you can check in and then spend the rest of evening relaxing as tomorrow we will be heading out for explore some more history. (Overnight in Antalya).

• Day 9 Antalya: Aspendos, Perge, Kursunlu Waterfall
  Aspendos, Perge, Kursunlu Waterfall

  Pick-up will be from the hotel for make your departure to visit Perge. An important city of ancient Pamphylian, Perge was originally settled by the Hittites around 1500 BC. St. Paul preached some of his first sermons here. The theater stage has been finely carved marble reliefs, other carvings from around the city can be found been displayed in the stadium. Amateur archaeologists will want to see the handsome city gate flanked by two lofty towers a long colonnaded road once paved with mosaics and lined with shops, a large agora, the public baths and a gymnasium.After lunch, proceed to Aspendos one of the best preserved theatres in the world with seating for 15,000. Still used today, the theater galleries, stage decorations and acoustics all testify to the architects success. Nearby stand the remains of a basilica, agora and one of the largest aqueducts in Anatolia. It is commonly believed that Aspendos was founded by colonist from Argos. We with then proceed to Kursunlu Waterfalls for a refreshing break as the waters do tend to me a bit cool. After the tour we will then transfer you back to the hotel for an overnight stay in Antalya.

• Day 10 Antalya

  Today is scheduled free so you have the whole day to yourselves to spend how you wish in and around the area of Antalya. We have written some of the MUST SEE ideas for you that you may wish to endure within your free time – SEA TO SKY – You will travel by a cable car upto Mount Tahtali and along the way up you will be able to admire the views of the coastline and the magnificent Taurus Mountains. PHASELIS – An ancient Lycian city that was once an important trading centre, it is surrounding by a National Park and 3 small cosy bays so you can always pack a picnic and take a dip, Or take a casual stroll through the woodlands where the ruins are hidden. KALEICI (old town of Antalya) It still holds much of its original appearance with its narrow cobbled pathways that you can stroll along, and as take a casual stroll through Kaleici you will be able to find some art galleries, special bourtiques whilst at the same time gaze upon the spectacular Ottoman Architecture. ANTALYA ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM This is a very famous museum and without a doubt one of the best that you can find throughout the whole of Turkey, because it highlights history in the region throughout the different periods. Or if you want to just relax in the sun Antalya also has numerous beaches you can go to with the most popular ones been Lara Beach and Konyaalti Beach. (overnight in antalya).

• Day 11 Istanbul

  Today you will be picked up from your hotel with the transfer service taking you to the airport so you can catch your flight back to Istanbul. Once you arrive in Istanbul you will then be taken to an arranged hotel where you will have an overnight stay.

• Day 12 Istanbul

  Today is your final day of your tour around Turkey, so you need to make sure that you have packed all of your belongings, as you will need to check out of the hotel room by 12.00. A transfer service will come to pick you up from the hotel to take you to airport for catch your scheduled flight. (transfer will be in accordance to your flight time). We trust that your time with us discovering and exploring some of Turkeys hidden treasures has been everything that you wanted and more, most of all we would also like to wish you a pleasant journey home and shall look forward to seeing you again on one of our many other time travelling packages.

• End Points: Turkey/Istanbul

Informations

• What's Included

  • All mentioned transfers in the program (some regular, some private).
  • All mentioned tours in the program including transportation with air conditioned buses,guidance (in English) and entrance fees (Regular local tours).
  • All meals as described in the itinerary as B Breakfast, L Lunch.
  • All local taxes.
  • Internal Flight tickets
  • 11 nights accommodation in 3,4 or 5 star hotels according to your choice.
  

• What's Excluded

  • Tips (optional).
  • International flight tickets.
  • Drinks with meals (except the drinks served in breakfast).
  • Travel insurance.
  • Visa (if needed).
  • Personal expenses.
  

• Travel Tips

  • Tips (optional).
  • International flight tickets.
  • Drinks with meals (except the drinks served in breakfast).
  • Travel insurance.
  • Visa (if needed).
  • Personal expenses.
  

• Note

  This program may contain some hard walking tracks which are not suitable for senior and disabled people.
  

Customer Comments - Tripadvisor Write A Review!

• 

  JohnAlex84

  Jun 2022

  Pamukkale Trip

  I had a prompt and enjoyable service through Castle Tours. We were a group of 11 people and this was a customised personal tour. The van and guide arrived on time and has been very flexible and helpful throughout..They have been helping and accomodating with small kids and the guide was very informative..They never made any fuss with timings nor stayed with us all the way through. The cost was very reasonable and could pay in any currency via portable paying machine on the day....Highly recommend...

• 

  Ricky G

  May 2022

  A wondrous trip

  Reassuringly The Guides really were excellent in every way welcoming,friendly,extremely helpful,informative,doing their upmost in catering for every wish & desire! You have to visit Izmir.i'd put it right at the top of your Turkish itinerary. A must do.don't pass by this opportunity if you can.you'll savour this beautiful city & its wonderful people.the sights,tastes,sounds & smells will captivate you.the iskender OR bursa kebab lunch was so delicious & my Partner even had a chicken curry at the same restaurant we stopped off at in Izmir which was so appetising full of fresh ingredients! you can even see some of the cooking being done right in front of your very eyes.there's a fair bit of walking involved but well worth it if you're able to manage it.the ferry ride to the other side of Izmir is so delightful.the Male Market Sellers are a bit of a pest though.it feels like every one is trying to persuade you into their business to spend your cash but hey that's part of the Turkey experience.keep moving on & it's fine.wallow in the splendour of one of Turkeys most fab cities

• 

  Fadi081577

  May 2022

  BEST TOUR GUIDE EVER!!!!!!

  I cannot tell you what an amazing guide Yeliz is and the driver we had too was amazing. Yeliz was incredibly knowledgeable, spoke perfect english, was very charismatic. Honestly she became like our best friend. We wanted to take her back home with us she became like a sister to us. BEST BEST BEST EXPERIENCE EVER! was the highlight of our entire Turkey trip

• 

  SuzanneJane

  May 2022

  Amazing sites & fun guides

  Super tour with Castle Travel! Our guide Yeliz took us from Izmir to the three main sites at Pergamon: the Asklepion, the Red Basilica, and the Akropolis. She had all kinds of interesting stories to tell about each of the sites and really brought them to life for us. I would go on a tour with her again in a second. She was great to hang out with, as were our guide-in-training, Mustafa and our driver Umet. Pickup was right on time. Yeliz knew some great local places to stop for lunch and tea, and clued us in regarding local culture as well as the amazing sites of Pergamon. Highly recommended!

• 

  Adam

  Jan 2022

  Super Time

  We were there 2 weeks ago Harun is a great guide. It was a great experience great location and we had a great time thanks to our guide. Thank you to Harun and our driver.

• 

  Charles J S

  Jan 2022

  Thanks Harunn!

  Pamukkale is a fascinating place, I found its hot spring interesting. We wanted to do a balloon tour, but unfortunately it was not possible due to weather conditions. It was not possible to enter the Cleopatra pool either. Hierapolis was impressive. Our guide, Mr. Harun, was caring and communicative. If we come again, we will prefer the summer months...

• 

  Orlene Gerald

  Nov 2021

  Priene miletos didyma

  Priene miletos didyma tour went perfectly. İt was a different feeling to see didyma appollon temple accompanied by our guide yeliz. Do not forget to eat fish when you join the tour.

• 

  Anonymous

  Oct 2021

  Pamukkale Tour

  Our experience with Harun touring Pamukkale was fantastic, he was engaging and had good energy and was very knowledgeable about the history of the region. Pamukkale was exceptional and beautiful, we dipped ourselves in the thermal pools and took lots of great shots and also swam in Cleopatras pool. Harun was proactive in helping us take some good photos for memories and we had more than enough time to have a worthwhile time. It was lots fun and the lunch was great, one of the best meals we had in Turkey by far.

• 

  Kris

  Oct 2021

  Castle tour company

  5 star. Wonderful tour group. We had a private tour that picked us up in Bodrum and took us to Ephesus, Virgin Mary house. Tour guide excellent and very knowledgeable. Driver excellent.

FAQs

• How to meet my tour guide?

  Your tour guide/staff will be waiting at pick up points such as your hotels’ lobby/main gate, a specific point etc. according to timing which you were given before tour date.

• Can I state the departure time for my tour?

  Of course! We also operate tours on private basis, so you can customize the departure time, if it is a private service.

• Can I choose the sights to visit on my own?

  On private tours. You can choose the sights and museums along with all sort of criteria you like by your agent according to content of service.

• How to buy museum tickets?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• Am I traveling with a group on the tour?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• How about the transportation?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• How do I pay?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• What is the language of group tours?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• What type of restaurants do you use?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• How to pay for my services?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• Am I traveling with a group?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• Are any Vaccinations Required For tourist entering Turkey?

  There are no vaccination requirements for any international traveller. The World Health Organization web site, www.who.org, provides vaccination certificate requirements by country, geographic distributions of potential health hazards to travellers.

• Can We Choose our Hotels?

  Yes, you can. All you have to do is just letting us know what hotels you would like to stay in while your agent creates your itinerary.

• Do I Have to Pay Full Amount To Book A Package Tours?

  No. You will need to pay %50 of the total amount of your package tour in order to complete your booking. You will be required to pay the rest of the amount 30 days before your arrival day in Turkey.

• Do I need a Visa To Turkey?

  Citizens of most of countries must have a visa to enter Turkey. U.S. citizens may obtain a visa upon entry into Turkey or in prior to departure from one of the five Turkish Consulates in the United States. Please find your state in the Turkish Consulates Jurisdiction (https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en).

• How Can I Travel in Turkey?

  By Plane Virtually every major city in Turkey has air service and Turkish Airlines offers nationwide services. Most flights connect through Istanbul or Ankara, both of which have domestic and international terminals. You can check Turkish Airlines.

• How Should Visitors Dress in Turkey?

  Casual wear is appropriate for most tour excursions. Women wear pants or skirts, but when visiting mosques it is recommended that they cover their heads with a scarf and both sexes should not wear shorts out of respects for religious customs.

• Is it Safe to Travel in Turkey?

  Turkey is one of the safest countries in the world in which to travel, and its crime rate is low in comparison to many Western European countries. Interpol ranked Turkey as the safest holiday destination in Europe for travelers. Naturally, we recommend.

• Should I exchange money before I go to Turkey?

  The highly favourable exchange rate makes travel to Turkey extremely affordable. Most banks in the U.S. do not have Turkish Lira. However, Turkish currency is easily obtainable upon arrival in Turkey at any exchange office or bank.

• What are the departure dates of your tours?

  There is no specific date! You can just pick-up your own dates to depart your package tour! In another word, our tours depart every day all year-round.

• What is a Turkish bath (Hamam)?

  Communal baths were used in Roman and Byzantine times, but as the name Turkish Bath suggests, they played a significant role in Ottoman culture. At a time when the concept of cleanliness was not yet accepted in Europe.

• Where can I find information on Festivals, Fairs and other Events in Turkey?

  There are more than 100 festivals in Turkey every year. In addition to the local festivals organized in almost every city of the country, international culture and art festivals are held in major cities including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Antalya.

Good to Know

• Currency Regulation

  Limits
  There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that may be brought into Turkey, but not more than 5 5,000 worth of Turkish currency may be brought into or taken out of the country.

• Exchange Slips

  The exchange slips for the conversion of foreign currency into Turkish lira should be kept, since you may be required to show these when reconverting your Turkish lira back into foreign currency, and when taking souvenirs out of the country (to prove that they have been purchased with legally exchanged foreign currency).

• Customs Regulations

  On Entry
  The following items may be brought into the country duty free personal effects of the tourist.
  
  One TV, one color pocket TV (maximum 16 cm screen), one TV-tape-radio combination, one video recording camera and 5 video cassettes (blank); 5 records, 5 tape cassettes or compact discs, one video player, cine-projector (8 mm) and 10 rolls of film (blank), one slide projector, one pocket computer (maximum main memory capacity Ram 128k. Byte), electronic playing devices (without cassette – keyboard), one transistor radio and portable radio – tape player (its specification to be determined by the Ministry of Finance and Customs), one Walkman or pocket tape recorder, one portable compact disc player, binoculars (one pair, except night binoculars), harmonica, mandolin, flageolet, flute, guitar, and accordion (only one of each type, maximum 3 musical instruments). personal sports equipment, necessary medical items, bicycle, baby buggy, toys, 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars. 200 grams of tobacco and 200 cigarette papers, or 50 grams of chewing tobacco or 200 grams of pipe tobacco, or 200 grams of snuff (In addition to the above allowances, it is possible to purchase 400 cigarettes, 100 cigars, and 500 grams of pipe tobacco from the Turkish Duty Free Shops upon entering the country), 1.5kg. coffee, 1.5kg. instant coffee, 500 grams of tea, 1 kilo chocolate and 1 kilo sweets, 5 (100 cc) or 7 (70 cc) bottles of wines and/or spirits, five bottles of perfume (120 ml max. each), one portable typewriter, one camera with 5 rolls of film, first aid, and spare parts for the car, other items necessary during the journey.
  
  Valuable items and all items with a value of over $ 15,000 must be registered in the owner’s passport upon entering Turkey, for control upon exit.
  
  Antiques brought into the country must be registered in the owner’s passport to avoid difficulties on exit.
  
  Sharp instruments (including camping knives) and weapons may not be brought into the country without special permission.
  
  The bringing into the country, trade, and consumption of marijuana and all other narcotics is strictly forbidden and subject to heavy punishment.
  
  Gifts, not exceeding 500 DM in value and not for trading purposes, may be brought into the country duty free. In addition, gifts not exceeding 500 OM in value may be posted to Turkey duty free, if the date stamped by the sending post office falls one month before, or one month after the following holidays: Seker Bayrami, Kurban Bayrami, Christmas, and New Year’s.
  
  Note
  Cellular Telephones entering the country must be accompanied by a certification form showing ownership. Ownership must be documented in the passport of the owner and will be checked on entry and exit. For more information contact the Ministry of transportation, General Directorate at Tel: (312) 212 35 72 – 212 60 10 (10 lines), Fax: (312) 221 32 26 or write to Ulastirma Bakanligi Telsiz Gn. Md. Emek – Ankara.
  
  On Exit
  Gifts and souvenirs: for a new carpet, a proof of purchase; for old items, a certificate from a directorate of a museum is necessary. Exporting antiques from Turkey is forbidden.
  
  Valuable personal items can only be taken out of the country providing they have been registered in the owner’s passport upon entry, or providing they can show they have been purchased with legally exchanged currency.
  
  Minerals may only be exported from the country with a special document obtained from the MTA (General Directorate of Mining Exploration and Research). Etudler Dairesi 06520, Ankara. Phone: +90 312 287 3430 /1622, Fax: +90 312 285 4271
  
  Tax Refund
  You Can Receive a Tax Refund for the Goods You Purchased In Turkey! Refunds will be made to travelers who do not reside in Turkey. All goods (including food and drinks) are included in the refunds with the exclusion of services rendered. The minimum amount of purchase that qualifies for refund is 5.000.000 TL. Retailers that qualify for tax refunds must be “authorized for refund.” These retailers must display a permit received from their respective tax office.
  
  The retailer will make four copies of the receipt for your refund, three of which will be received by the purchaser. If photocopies of the receipt are received the retailer must sign and stamp the copies to validate them. If you prefer the refund to be made by check, a Tax-free Shopping Check for the amount to be refunded to the customer must be given along with the receipt.
  
  For the purchaser to benefit from this exemption he must leave the country within three months with the goods purchased showing them to Turkish customs officials along with the appropriate receipts and! or check.
  
  There are four ways to receive your refund:
  If the retailer gives you a check it can be cashed at a bank in the customs area at the airport. If it is not possible to cash the check upon departure or if you do not wish to cash it then, .e customer must, within one month, send a copy of the receipt showing that the goods have left the country to the retailer who will, within ten days upon receiving the receipt, send a bank transfer to the purchaser’s hank or address.
  
  If the certified receipt and check are brought back to the retailer on a subsequent visit thin one-month of the date of customs certification, the refund can be made directly to the purchaser. Retailers may directly refund the amount to trustworthy customers upon purchase. The refund may be made by the organization of those companies that are authorized to make tax refunds.
  
  Additional information:
  Ministry of Finance and Tax Dept. General Directorate, (Maliye Bakanligi, Gelirler Genel Mudurlugu) KDV Subesi 06100, Ulus – Ankara Phone: +90 312 310 3880 / 725 – 728 – 735, Fax: +90 312 311 4510
  
  Tourist Health
  Turkish Tourist Health Society (Turizm Sagligi Dernegi-Hacettepe Üniversitesi Tip Fakültesi Plastik ve Rekonstrüktif Cerrahi Ana Bilim Dali, Sihhiye 06100 ANKARA
  
  Phone:
  +90 312 311 9393 – 310 98 08) performs the functions below, to provide the travelers in the entire country, mainly in the touristic regions, with proper health care:
  - to secure food hygiene
  - to prevent environmental pollution
  - to ensure hygiene and healthy working-conditions in touristic establishments.
  
  Health Regulations for Pets
  For those who wish to bring domestic animals into the country the following are required:
  - Pets have to be 3 months and older
  - An International Certificate of Health issued within 15 days before the travel
  - The Identification Card
  - Vaccination Card
  
  Note
  If you have an official certificate, you may bring one cat, one bird, one dog and 10 aquarium fish into the country. To get information for the importation of pets, please see the Consular Services.

• Motorist Rules

  General
  Those who wish to enter the country with their vans, minibuses, automobiles, station wagons, bicycles, motorcycles, motorbikes, sidecars, buses, motor coaches, trailers, caravans or other transport vehicles, will have to provide the following documentations:
  
  - Passport.
  - International driving license.
  - Car license (document where all details related to the car and the owner’s name are registered). If it is somebody else’s vehicle a power of attorney should be provided.
  - International green card (Insurance card). The TR sign should be visible.
  - Transit book “Carnet de passage” (for those who want to proceed to the Middle East).
  
  Period
  The vehicle can be brought into Turkey for up to 6 Months. The owner should declare on the opposite form, the date of departure at the border gate and should absolutely ve the country at the date declared. If for any important reason the staying period has to be ended, it is necessary to apply to;
  The Turkish Touring and Automobile Club (Türkiye Turing ve Otomobil Kurumu) 1. Sanayi Sitesi Yani, 4.Levent, Istanbul, Phone: +90 212 282 8140 (7 lines).
  The General Directorate of Customs (Gümrükler Genel Müdürlügü), Ulus Ankara Phone:
  +90 312 310 3880, 310 3818, Fax: +90 312 311 1346, before the end of the period declared.
  
  In Case of Accident
  The accident should be reported to the police or gendarme. That report has to be certified by the nearest local authority. The owner should apply to the customs authority with his passport and report.
  
  If the vehicle can be repaired, it is necessary to inform the customs authority first and take the vehicle to a garage. If the vehicle is not repairable and if the owner wishes to leave the country without his vehicle, he has to deliver it to the nearest customs office, and the registration of his vehicle on his passport will be cancelled. (Only after the cancellation can the owner of the vehicle leave the country.)
  
  Following an accident, you can phone:
  - Trafik Polisi (Traffic Police), Phone: 154
  - Jandarma (Gendarme), Phone: 156
  - For more information, contact the Touring and Automobile Association of Turkey.
  
  Formalities for Private Yacht Owners
  Yachts require a Transit Log and may remain in Turkish waters for up to two years maintenance or for wintering. There are certain ports licensed by the Ministry of Tourist the storage of yachts for a period of two to five years. For further information and regulations contact the marina concerned.
  
  Upon arriving in Turkish waters, yachts should immediately go for control of the ship to the nearest port of entry which are as follows: Iskenderun, Botas (Adana), Mersin, Tasucu, Anamur, Alanya, Antalya, Kemer, Finike, Kas, Fethiye, Marmaris, Datça, Bodrum, Güllük Didim, Kusadasi, Çesme, Izmir, Dikili, Ayvalik, Akçay, Çanakkale, Bandirma, Tekirdag, Istanbul, Zonguldak, Sinop, Samsun, Ordu, Giresun, Trabzon, Rize, Hopa.
  
  Port Formalities
  All the required information concerning the yacht, yachtsmen, members, intended route, passports, customs declarations, health clearance, and any obligatory matters must be entered in the Transit Log.
  
  The Transit Log is to be completed by the captain of a yacht under a foreign flag or amateur sailor acting as captain of the vessel.
  The Transit Log is completed upon first entering a Turkish port and, generally, it is necessary to contact the Harbor Authority before leaving. For information on tax-free fuel, contact the Marina Harbor Office.
  
  Note
  If you have a certificate from the Tourism Ministry Yacht Harbor, you may take petrol at no charge, provided you possess an official marina license.

• Formalities for Private Plane Owners

  General
  When coming to Turkey, international air routes should be followed. Private planes may stay for up to three months in Turkey with tourist status, but for longer periods permission should be obtained from;
  The General Directorate of Customs (Gümrükler Genel Müdürlügü), Ulus Ankara
  
  Phone:
  +90 312 310 3880, 310 3818, Fax: +90 312 311 1346
  The airports of Ankara, Adana, Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Trabzon and Dalaman have ties for private planes. It is also possible to hire planes and helicopters in Turkey.
  
  For further information, apply to:
  The Civil Aviation Department of the Ministry of Transport (Ulastirma Bakanligi, Havacilik Gen. Müd.). Bosna-Hersek Cad., No: 5 – 06338 – Emek, Ankara.
  
  Phone:
  +90 312 212 6730, Fax: +90 312 2124684, TIx : 44659 Ga-tr.
  
  Underwater Diving
  Diving for purposes of sport, with proper equipment and in non-restricted areas, is permitted. Foreign divers should have official documentation of their specifics and training and must be accompanied, when diving, by a licensed Turkish guide.
  
  The limit for diving with diving gear is 30 meters. For educational purposes, this limit is extended to 42 meters. Dives exceeding 30 meters must be carried out with proper diving and medical equipment. In order to protect Turkish archaeological and cultural values. It is strictly forbidden to transport Turkish antiquities or natural specimens.

• Postal System

  Turkish post-offices are easily recognized by their black PTT letters on a yellow background. Major post offices are open from 8:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m., Monday/Saturday, and 9:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m., Sunday. Small post-offices have the same hours as the government offices.
  
  Postal charges vary for different services depending on destination. Post restante letters should be addressed “postrestant” to the central post-office Merkez Postanesi, in the town of your choice. You have to show your identification card to collect your letters.
  
  All PTT branches have the facilities to exchange money at the current international exchange rates, as well as international postal orders and travelers’ cheques. There is also an express postal service (APS) operating to 90 countries for letters , documents and small packages. A wide variety of special stamps are available in all PTT centers for philatelists.
  
  To phone from PTT telephone booths, which are extensively found in all areas; telephone cards , and tokens (“;jeton”) in three sizes are used. Local, inter-city and international calls can be made from all PTT offices. Besides these main offices there are also mobile PTT services in the touristic areas. For the area codes of major cities and touristic areas in Turkey, please see the “Area Codes” list. Foreign countries area codes are indicated in the International Telephone Codes list.
  
  Some important service numbers are;
  - 155 Police
  - 112 Emergency
  - 110 Fire
  - 118 Unknown Numbers
  - 161 PTT Information.

• Working Hours

  Government Offices
  Monday-Friday (8:30-12:30), (13:30-17:30)
  Saturday-Sunday (closed)
  
  Banks
  Monday-Friday (8:30-12-00), (13:30-17:00)
  Saturday-Sunday (closed)
  
  Shops
  Monday-Saturday (9:30-13:00), (14:00-19:00)
  Sunday (closed)
  
  Istanbul Covered Market:
  Monday-Saturday (8:00-19:00)
  Sunday (closed)
  
  During summer months, the government offices and many other establishments in the Aegean and Mediterranean Regions are closed in the afternoon. These fixed summer hours are determined by the governing bodies of the provinces.

• Other Practical Information

  Local time: GMT+3 hours (April-September) GMT+2 hours (October-March)
  
  Time Differences:
  Argentina -5, France -1, Netherlands -1, Australia +8, Germany -1, Saudi Arabia+1, Austria -1, Greece 0, Sweden -1, Egypt 0, Italy -1, Switzerland -1, England -2, Japan +7, Spain -1, USA -7 (EST) -10 (WEST)
  
  *These time differences are for the period October-March; however, they may show variances according to each country’s own time-saving adjustments.
  
  Petrol: Super (premium) – Unleaded (at some places). Normal (regular) – Diesel.
  
  Electricity: 220 volts AC/50 Hz. all over Turkey. (Industrial:380 V) Plug: European round/ 2-prong plug.
  
  Water: Although tap water is safe to drink since it is chlorinated, it is recommended to get advice from the conceded authorities of the places resided.
  
  Weights and Measures:
  1 inch = 2.54 centimeters , 1 centimeter = 0.3937 inches
  1 yard = 0,9144 meters, 1 meter = 1.0936 yards
  1 mile = 1,6093 kilometers, 1 kilometer = 0.6214 miles
  1 pound = 0,4536 kilograms, 1 kilogram = 2.2046 pounds
  Area: 1 acres = 0,4047 Hectares, 1 hectare = 2.471 acres
  
  Capacity:
  1 UK gallon = 4.546 liters, 1 liter = 0.2199 UK gallons
  1 US gallon = 3.7831 liters, 1 liter = 0.2643 US gallons
  
  Newspapers and Magazines:
  Foreign newspapers and magazines are available in big cities and tourist areas. Also there is a Turkish daily newspaper, Daily News, published in English.
  
  Tipping:
  At various establishments like hotels, restaurants, Turkish baths, barbers and hairdressers, tipping at a rate of 5%-15% of the total is common. Taxi and “dolmus” drivers on the other hand, do not expect tips or even rounded fares.
  
  Visiting a mosque:
  Five times a day, the “müezzin” calls the faithful to prayer in the mosque. Before entering a mosque, Muslims wash themselves and remove their shoes. Foreign visitors should also remove their shoes and show the respect they would any other house of worship and avoid visiting the mosque during prayer time. Women should cover their heads and arms, and not wear miniskirts. Men should not wear shorts. (In certain famous mosques, overalls are provided for those not suitably dressed.)

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