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Turkey

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description Turkey Overview

Turkey, officially the Republic of Türkiye, is a transcontinental country with territory in southeastern Europe and western Asia. Most of its land lies on the Anatolian Peninsula, a highland region bordered by the Black Sea, Aegean Sea, and Mediterranean Sea, while the Bosporus links the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. The country contains archaeological and historical remains associated with Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. Its cities, coastlines, and inland landscapes attract travelers interested in history, food, and outdoor activities.

help Turkey FAQ

Do US citizens need a visa to visit Turkey?

Yes, US citizens need a visa, but it is obtained easily online through Turkey's official e-Visa website in just a few minutes for a modest fee. It typically permits stays of up to 90 days for tourism.

Is Hagia Sophia currently a mosque or a museum?

Hagia Sophia in Istanbul was built as a Byzantine church in 537 AD, became a museum in 1935, and was re-designated as a functioning mosque in July 2020. Visitors are still welcome outside of prayer times, and entrance is free with modest dress required.

What time of day do Cappadocia hot air balloon flights launch?

Balloon flights over Cappadocia's UNESCO-listed fairy chimney valleys launch at dawn because winds are calmest then, with hundreds of balloons airborne on good mornings. Flights are frequently canceled in high wind or rain, so savvy travelers book two or three mornings in the region during spring or autumn, the most reliable seasons.

Should I pay in Turkish lira or euros when traveling in Turkey?

The official currency is the Turkish lira, and paying in lira almost always gets you a better effective rate than accepting euro prices in tourist areas. Cards are widely accepted in cities, though markets and small vendors in places like Istanbul's Grand Bazaar prefer cash lira.