Q - What's the best time of year to visit Turkey?
A - Istanbul is a popular destination all year round, although summer can get very hot and winter is usually cold and rainy with the occasional snow flurry. Spring and autumn months are best advised for a pleasant temperature and less crowding at the major sites.
Q - How should I dress in Turkey?
A - Turkish dress sense is generally westernised although revealing clothing is not very common in Istanbul (nightclubs along the Bosphorus are more of an exception). As a secular state, Turkey is tolerant of other cultures and religions. Female visitors are not expected to don a head scarf, unless they are visiting a mosque and scarves are usually available to borrow. Shorts tend to be kept for the beach and not commonly seen in the city. When visiting mosque, men must wear trousers or long shorts covering the knees.
Q - Do I need a visa?
A - All UK passport holders visiting Turkey must purchase an e-Visa online before travelling - including babies and children. Visas are valid for 180 days, and you can visit Turkey for up to 90 days within this duration. E-Visas must be bought BEFORE you arrive in Turkey from the official website. Some countries do not require a visa at all.
Q - Should I take out travel insurance before visiting Turkey?
A - Yes. It is important that before you book your holiday, you make sure that you have relevant travel insurance for you and your party.
Q - What language do they speak in Istanbul? Will it be hard to get by with only English?
Turkish is the official language of Turkey and English is widely spoken in Istanbul; visitors are often surprised by the relatively high level of English spoken by most Turks.
A - Istanbul is a popular destination all year round, although summer can get very hot and winter is usually cold and rainy with the occasional snow flurry. Spring and autumn months are best advised for a pleasant temperature and less crowding at the major sites.
Q - How should I dress in Turkey?
A - Turkish dress sense is generally westernised although revealing clothing is not very common in Istanbul (nightclubs along the Bosphorus are more of an exception). As a secular state, Turkey is tolerant of other cultures and religions. Female visitors are not expected to don a head scarf, unless they are visiting a mosque and scarves are usually available to borrow. Shorts tend to be kept for the beach and not commonly seen in the city. When visiting mosque, men must wear trousers or long shorts covering the knees.
Q - Do I need a visa?
A - All UK passport holders visiting Turkey must purchase an e-Visa online before travelling - including babies and children. Visas are valid for 180 days, and you can visit Turkey for up to 90 days within this duration. E-Visas must be bought BEFORE you arrive in Turkey from the official website. Some countries do not require a visa at all.
Q - Should I take out travel insurance before visiting Turkey?
A - Yes. It is important that before you book your holiday, you make sure that you have relevant travel insurance for you and your party.
Q - What language do they speak in Istanbul? Will it be hard to get by with only English?
Turkish is the official language of Turkey and English is widely spoken in Istanbul; visitors are often surprised by the relatively high level of English spoken by most Turks.