18 Crucial Things Americans Should Know Before Visiting Türkiye (Turkey)
Türkiye is a country of incredible diversity, bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, and blending centuries-old traditions with modern cosmopolitan life. With its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that Türkiye attracts millions of visitors each year. However, for Americans visiting for the first time, there are several key cultural norms, practices, and practical tips that can make the trip more enjoyable and enriching. Here are 20 things Americans should know before visiting Türkiye.
1. Türkiye: A Melting Pot of Cultures
Türkiye’s strategic location between Europe and Asia makes it one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. Over the centuries, it has been home to numerous civilizations, including the ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. This rich history has left a profound mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. As you travel through the country, you’ll notice the influences of these cultures everywhere—from the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a former Christian basilica turned mosque and now a museum, to the ancient city of Ephesus, which showcases impressive Roman ruins.
Understanding the diversity of Türkiye is key to appreciating its cultural richness. Each region has its own distinct identity. For example, Istanbul is a cosmopolitan hub where East meets West, while Cappadocia offers surreal landscapes and a history deeply rooted in early Christianity. In the southeastern region, cities like Gaziantep are renowned for their traditional crafts and cuisine influenced by the Middle East.
2. Legendary Turkish Hospitality
Turkish hospitality is world-renowned, and visitors often find themselves welcomed with warmth and generosity. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a remote village, don’t be surprised if locals go out of their way to help you or offer you a cup of çay (Turkish tea). Accepting such offers is not only polite but also an important part of experiencing Turkish culture. Even shopkeepers or street vendors may offer you tea or small gifts as a sign of goodwill, and it’s customary to sit down, enjoy the tea, and engage in conversation without feeling pressured to buy anything.
If you’re invited into someone’s home, it’s a good idea to bring a small gift such as sweets, flowers, or a traditional item from your home country as a token of appreciation. Once inside, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering the main living area—many households provide slippers for guests.
3. Basic Turkish Phrases Will Be Appreciated
While many people in Türkiye’s major cities, especially in tourist areas, speak English, making an effort to learn a few basic Turkish phrases can go a long way. Phrases like “Merhaba” (Hello), “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you), and “Lütfen” (Please) will not only help you navigate daily interactions but also show locals that you respect their language and culture.
In smaller towns and rural areas, English may not be as widely spoken, so knowing how to ask for directions or basic needs in Turkish can be quite helpful. “Afedersiniz” (Excuse me) and “Ne kadar?” (How much?) are useful phrases when interacting in shops or markets. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, locals will appreciate the effort and often respond with kindness and encouragement.
4. Modest Dress in Religious Sites Is Expected
While Türkiye is a secular country, Islam plays a significant role in everyday life, and many Turks are deeply religious. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly as a sign of respect. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and women should bring a scarf to cover their hair. Men should avoid wearing shorts in religious areas. In most major mosques, such as Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque) in Istanbul, scarves and coverings are often provided at the entrance if needed.
Additionally, it’s essential to remove your shoes before entering any mosque. Many mosques provide plastic bags for you to carry your shoes, or you can leave them at the entrance. Inside the mosque, maintain a quiet demeanor, avoid taking flash photography, and be respectful of worshippers who may be praying.
5. Efficient and Affordable Public Transportation
Public transportation in Türkiye is generally efficient and inexpensive, making it easy to travel within cities and between regions. In major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, you’ll find an extensive network of buses, trams, metros, and ferries. In Istanbul, for instance, you can use the Istanbulkart, a reloadable card that works on all public transport options, including buses, trams, and ferries. This card is a must-have for navigating the city and can be topped up at kiosks or machines located at metro stations and ferry terminals.
For long-distance travel, Turkish Airlines offers affordable domestic flights between cities, while intercity buses and trains provide a comfortable way to travel across the country. The high-speed train (YHT) connects major cities like Ankara, Konya, and Istanbul, making train travel both convenient and scenic. Dolmuş (shared minibuses) are also a common and inexpensive way to travel shorter distances within cities or between towns.
6. Common Tourist Scams to Watch Out For
Türkiye is generally safe for tourists, but as with any popular travel destination, there are certain scams to be aware of. In cities like Istanbul, particularly in tourist-heavy areas such as Sultanahmet or Taksim Square, one common scam involves overly friendly locals inviting tourists to a bar or nightclub, only for the unsuspecting tourist to be hit with an exorbitant bill at the end of the night. It’s best to avoid unsolicited invitations from strangers.
Another scam to watch out for is “shoe shine scams” in busy areas. A shoeshiner might “accidentally” drop their brush in front of you and offer to clean your shoes as a gesture of goodwill, only to demand a high fee afterward. It’s also a good idea to be cautious in bazaars or crowded places, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
7. Haggling in Markets Is Expected
Haggling is an integral part of shopping in traditional Turkish bazaars and markets, such as Istanbul’s famous Grand Bazaar or the Spice Bazaar. Vendors often expect you to negotiate the price, and the initial price they quote is usually higher than what they’re willing to accept. The key to successful haggling is to be polite, friendly, and patient. Start by offering a lower price than you’re willing to pay, and work your way up. If you can’t agree on a price, it’s perfectly acceptable to walk away—often, the vendor will call you back with a better offer.
Keep in mind that haggling is not appropriate in regular stores, supermarkets, or restaurants. It’s reserved for traditional markets and sometimes souvenir shops. In these settings, haggling is seen as a social interaction, so don’t take it too seriously—enjoy the experience, and you may even end up with a better deal!
8. Turkish Cuisine: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Turkish cuisine is one of the highlights of visiting Türkiye, and it offers much more than just kebabs. The country’s culinary traditions are diverse, with regional specialties that vary widely across the country. In the Mediterranean and Aegean regions, you’ll find fresh seafood and olive oil-based dishes, while central and eastern Türkiye is known for its heartier, spicier fare, including dishes like Iskender kebab and mantı (Turkish dumplings).
Meze (small plates) are a great way to sample a variety of flavors, including dishes like hummus, haydari (yogurt with garlic and herbs), and stuffed grape leaves. No trip to Türkiye is complete without trying baklava, a rich pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey. Pair it with a cup of strong Turkish coffee, which is traditionally served in small cups and enjoyed slowly.
Breakfast in Türkiye is a feast in itself, typically including cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, and menemen (scrambled eggs with peppers and tomatoes). And don’t forget to try çay (Turkish tea), which is consumed throughout the day in small, tulip-shaped glasses.
9. Drinking Tap Water: Bottled Water Is Preferred
While tap water in Türkiye is generally safe for brushing your teeth and washing, most locals and tourists prefer to drink bottled water, as it is widely available and inexpensive. Bottled water can be found in restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores across the country. In many regions, the taste of the tap water may not be as palatable due to mineral content, so sticking to bottled water for drinking is advisable.
When dining out, you may be asked whether you prefer still (su) or sparkling (soda) water. Bottled water is typically served with meals, and unlike in the U.S., it’s not free of charge, so expect to pay a small fee for it in restaurants.
10. Visiting During Ramadan
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, is a significant time in Türkiye. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and other physical needs during daylight hours. While Türkiye is a secular country, Ramadan is still widely observed, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. In larger cities and tourist areas, most restaurants and cafes remain open during the day, but in more conservative areas, you may notice that some establishments are closed or have limited hours during fasting times.
In the evenings, after sunset, families and communities gather to break their fast with iftar (the meal that ends the fast). Many restaurants offer special iftar menus, and the atmosphere becomes lively with celebrations. As a visitor, it’s important to be respectful of those who are fasting—avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours, particularly in more traditional neighborhoods.
11. Currency and Cash Tips: Turkish Lira (TRY)
The official currency in Türkiye is the Turkish lira (TRY). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and stores in major cities, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially in rural areas, markets, and smaller shops where cards might not be accepted.
ATMs are readily available throughout Türkiye, but it’s a good idea to notify your bank before traveling to avoid any issues with your card. Also, note that some ATMs may charge a withdrawal fee, so it’s wise to check with your bank on any potential international transaction fees before you go. Additionally, although euros and U.S. dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, it’s best to pay in Turkish lira to get the most favorable exchange rate.
12. Respectful Discussions About Politics
While Turkish people are generally open to discussing current events and politics, it’s best to approach political topics with caution. Issues like politics, religion, and the Kurdish question can be sensitive subjects, and discussions around these topics can sometimes become heated. Türkiye has a complex political history, and it’s important to be respectful when discussing local issues.
If political conversations arise, approach them with curiosity rather than judgment. Turks often have strong opinions about their country’s politics, so it’s best to listen and engage thoughtfully without making assumptions. If you’re unsure about a topic, it’s okay to steer the conversation back to more neutral subjects.
13. Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens are required to have a visa to enter Türkiye. Fortunately, the process of obtaining a visa is straightforward and can be done online through the e-Visa system before your trip. The application is quick, and you’ll typically receive your visa electronically within minutes of applying. Make sure to print out a copy or save the visa on your phone, as you may need to show it upon arrival.
Additionally, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Türkiye, as this is a requirement for entry. The visa typically allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, but always check the latest entry requirements before your trip.
14. Call to Prayer (Adhan)
As a predominantly Muslim country, the call to prayer (adhan) is an integral part of daily life in Türkiye. You’ll hear the adhan broadcast from mosques five times a day, starting at dawn and continuing until the evening. The sound of the call to prayer can be a beautiful and moving experience, and it’s a reminder of the country’s rich Islamic heritage.
While the adhan may wake you up if your accommodation is near a mosque, it’s generally considered a peaceful part of the daily rhythm of life in Türkiye. In some cities, particularly Istanbul, the sound of multiple mosques calling to prayer at the same time can create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
15. Understanding Turkish Toilets
While most hotels, restaurants, and public spaces in Türkiye have modern Western-style toilets, you may encounter squat toilets in more traditional areas, especially in rural regions or at older public facilities. These toilets require you to squat rather than sit, which can be unfamiliar to many Western travelers.
It’s also common in Türkiye to find that some public restrooms charge a small fee for use, typically around 1 to 2 lira, so it’s wise to carry small change. Additionally, you may find that some bathrooms provide a bidet sprayer (or water hose) instead of toilet paper. In more modern facilities, both options are available.
16. Social Etiquette and Greetings
When greeting someone in Türkiye, especially for the first time, it’s customary to shake hands. For close friends or family members, it’s common to exchange light kisses on both cheeks. If you’re meeting someone older or in a formal setting, it’s polite to wait for them to offer their hand first. Address people respectfully by their titles (such as Mr., Mrs., or Ms.) until you’re invited to use their first name.
Turks also value personal space during conversation but are more physically expressive in terms of gestures and handshakes. It’s considered polite to maintain eye contact during conversations, as it’s a sign of attentiveness and respect.
17. Shopping Etiquette: Fixed Prices vs. Bargaining
Not all shopping in Türkiye involves bargaining. While haggling is expected in bazaars and some souvenir shops, many stores, especially those in shopping malls or high-end boutiques, have fixed prices. It’s important to distinguish where bargaining is appropriate and where it’s not.
In markets like Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar or the local souks, haggling is an essential part of the shopping experience, and vendors often enjoy the process. However, when shopping for luxury goods, electronics, or in chain stores, prices are usually non-negotiable.
18. The Best Time to Visit: Seasons and Weather
Türkiye experiences diverse climates depending on the region, so the best time to visit largely depends on where you’re going and what you want to do. The spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and pleasant across most of the country, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
In the summer months, particularly in July and August, temperatures in cities like Istanbul and along the southern coast can soar, making the coastal resorts of the Turkish Riviera (such as Antalya, Bodrum, and Marmaris) a popular destination for beachgoers. The winter months (December to February) can be cold, especially in the interior and northern regions, but it’s a great time to visit Cappadocia for its magical snow-covered landscapes or Uludağ for skiing.
Conclusion
Türkiye is a country that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering an unforgettable travel experience filled with historical wonders, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From navigating bustling markets and indulging in world-renowned cuisine to exploring its religious heritage and engaging with the warm-hearted locals, visiting Türkiye is a journey through rich culture and history. By keeping these 20 tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your adventure in this extraordinary destination.
