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Things to Consider Before You Visit
- Best time to visit: April to June and September to November
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY); credit cards are widely accepted in cities
- Language: Turkish is the official language; English is commonly spoken in tourist areas
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and rural areas
- Public transportation is affordable and reliable—metros, buses, ferries
- Taxis are available but agree on the fare or ensure the meter is used
- Avoid political demonstrations and large crowds
- Cultural etiquette: remove shoes when entering homes and mosques
Top Attractions
- Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Istanbul
- Cappadocia; hot air balloon rides and cave hotels
- Pamukkale’s natural hot springs and travertine terraces
- Ephesus; ancient Roman ruins
- Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia
- Grand Bazaar and Spice Market in Istanbul
