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Travel in Türkiye: the complete practical guide

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Hagia Sophia in Istanbul under a blue sky
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In short: a trip to Türkiye often starts in Istanbul, between Europe and Asia, before Cappadocia and its balloons or the Aegean coast of Ephesus. Many nationalities, including French citizens, enter visa-free for 90 days.

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When to go

  • April to June and September-October: the best time for Istanbul and Cappadocia.
  • Summer: hot, ideal for the coast (Antalya, Bodrum), very busy in Istanbul.
  • Winter: cool and rainy in Istanbul, snowy in Cappadocia.

Entry requirements

Many nationalities, including French citizens, can stay up to 90 days visa-free for tourism. Check the accepted documents and the rules for your nationality.

Arriving in Istanbul

  • Istanbul Airport (European side): the M11 metro reaches Gayrettepe in about 35 to 40 minutes, then the M2 continues to Taksim; Havaist shuttles serve Taksim, Sultanahmet or Kadıköy.
  • Sabiha Gökçen (Asian side): shuttles and metro to the centre.

Getting around

  • In Istanbul: tram, metro, Marmaray (under the Bosphorus) and ferries, with the rechargeable Istanbulkart.
  • Between regions: fast domestic flights (Istanbul to Cappadocia in about an hour), comfortable long-distance buses.

Money, internet and customs

  • Currency: the Turkish lira. Cards are very widely accepted.
  • Internet: install a travel eSIM.
  • Mosques: covering clothes and a headscarf for women; visits pause during prayers.

What to see in Türkiye

  • Istanbul: Hagia Sophia (paid for foreign visitors), the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, a Bosphorus cruise.
  • Cappadocia: fairy chimneys, rock-cut churches, hot-air balloon flights at sunrise.
  • Ephesus and Pamukkale, on the Aegean coast.
  • The Turquoise Coast: Antalya, Kaş, Bodrum.

Suggested itinerary

10 days: 4 days in Istanbul, 3 days in Cappadocia, then Ephesus and Pamukkale, with domestic flights.

Where to stay

Our Istanbul page presents the best areas for your travel style.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Türkiye?

Not for many nationalities, including French citizens, who can stay up to 90 days visa-free for tourism. Check the accepted documents and the rules for your nationality before you go.

How do I get from Istanbul Airport to the centre?

The M11 metro links Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepe in about 35 to 40 minutes, then the M2 continues to Taksim; Havaist shuttles serve the main districts. The second airport, Sabiha Gökçen, is on the Asian side.

Is Hagia Sophia paid to visit?

Yes for foreign visitors, who use a dedicated gallery; the mosque is closed to visits during prayers.

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