Travel Resources for Visiting Turkey
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I have been traveling for more than 15 years and have visited 25+ countries. Over the years, I’ve found a handful of tools that make traveling easier, safer, and more affordable.
These are the exact tools I personally use when traveling in Turkey, and I update this list regularly as I find better options.
FLIGHTS and the like
Skyscanner: Skyscanner is one of my favorite flight search engines. It compares flights across multiple airlines and booking sites so you can find the best prices. You can also bundle flights and hotels together to save even more.
WayAaway: WayAway is another great tool for finding flights. It works well for international travel but is especially helpful for domestic flights. With WayAway Plus, you can even earn cashback on flights and travel purchases.
Priority Pass: Priority Pass gives you access to airport lounges around the world. If you have a long layover, having a comfortable place to sit with food, drinks, and Wi-Fi can make a huge difference.
Global Entry: Global Entry allows travelers to move through U.S. customs much faster when returning from international trips. It also includes TSA PreCheck, which speeds up security lines for domestic flights.
Accommodations
Booking.com: Booking.com is one of my favorite platforms for booking hotels in Turkey because of its reliable review system. One important thing to note: Booking.com cannot be accessed inside Turkey without a VPN, so it’s best to book your accommodations before you arrive.
Hostelworld: If you’re traveling on a budget, Hostelworld is a great way to find affordable hostels. Kevin’s Hostel in Kadıköy is particularly popular among travelers visiting Istanbul.
Skyscanner: Many people don’t realize that Skyscanner can also help you find hotel deals. If you book flights and hotels together, you can sometimes save even more.
Airbnb: I often use Airbnb when traveling in Turkey because having access to a kitchen can make longer stays much easier. However, keep in mind that beds in Turkey are often firmer than what many travelers are used to. Important note: Some Airbnb properties are not legally registered in Turkey. In rare cases, guests have been asked to leave if authorities discover the property is operating illegally.
VISAS
As of 2023, Americans no longer need a visa for visits up to 90 days in Turkey. If you’re from a country that still requires a visa, these services may help.
iVisa: A paid service that handles the visa application process for you.
Turkey E-visa: The official online system where travelers can apply for their visa directly.
Phone & Internet while abroad
Airalo: Airalo offers eSIM data plans that allow you to activate mobile data without buying a physical SIM card. If your phone supports eSIM, it’s one of the easiest ways to stay connected.
Turkcell: If you prefer buying a SIM card locally, Turkcell offers excellent coverage across Turkey, especially in major cities and tourist areas.
Google Voice: Google Voice allows you to send texts and make calls using data instead of traditional SMS, which can save money when traveling internationally. If you do this route, it pairs amazingly with Airalo so you always have a wifi connection.
Proton VPN: Because of occasional internet restrictions in Turkey, I strongly recommend using a VPN. I used Surfshark for several years, but as VPN restrictions have increased in Turkey, it has become less reliable. The service that has worked most consistently for me recently is Proton VPN, which has been able to connect even when other VPNs fail.
Safety
TravelInsurance.com This is the platform I personally use when buying travel insurance. It allows you to compare multiple companies and policies to find the best option for your trip.
Bra Wallet: This discreet wallet clips to clothing and allows you to safely store important documents and cash while traveling.
Travelon Backpack: Travelon backpacks include anti-theft features that make them ideal for crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur.
Local Lawyer: Pelin is a lawyer in Turkey who specializes in working with foreigners. She studied law in Turkey and completed her MBA in the United States.
CAR RENTAL & Transportation
Discover Cars: I’ve used Discover Cars several times in Turkey. It’s a reliable platform for comparing rental car prices. Just be sure to add insurance coverage when renting.
GetTransfer.com is a convenient option for booking airport transfers in advance. Here is my article all about why I prefer transfers to a normal taxi ride.
GetirAraç-MOOV: This car-sharing app allows you to rent vehicles for short trips around the city. You’ll need proof of recent entry into Turkey to register.
Airport Transfer: I’ve used several private transfer services in Istanbul and consistently had good experiences with comfortable vehicles and reliable drivers.
CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS
GetYourGuide: This is my favorite platform for booking tours and day trips in Turkey. They have an excellent selection, especially in places like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus.
Viator: Another trusted tour platform with strong customer support and a wide selection of experiences.
G Adventures: If you prefer organized group travel, G Adventures offers well-reviewed small group tours around the world.
Contiki: Contiki specializes in tours for travelers aged 18–35 who want to explore destinations with a group of people their age.
If this is your first trip abroad…
Tips for International Flights will be things to help make the trip and flight more enjoyable.
The importance of packing your carry-on correctly will ensure that you have what you need even if they lose your bag or something happens.
Travel essentials for everyone for every trip will make sure you have the basics covered.
As a woman traveler, these are important items that could make your trip more comfortable.
Want to make your life easier with a travel capsule wardrobe? This mini ebook will teach you how.
Favorite products
My favorite crossbody to travel in crowded areas.
Great travel safe backpack so you’re not pickpocketed.
Make sure you pack your power adapter!
This is my favorite filtered water bottle hands down.
Travel games are great when traveling with friends to help pass the time…not on your phone.
Seriously, bring a mini first aid kit. If you’d rather make it yourself that is fine but I recommend keeping one on you here.
I recommend a long raincoat because, with Turkey’s windy rain, an umbrella won’t do you much good.
It sucks not having power when you need it and with outlets in short supply abroad, a power bank is a must.
I only recommend tools and products that I personally use or have tested while traveling.