Turkey is one of those big trips that leave a mark: a vast country straddling Europe and Asia, with magical Cappadocia and its balloons, a dreamy turquoise coast, ruins of ancient civilisations, and legendary hospitality, all at very affordable prices. It's a major trip that demands preparation, but rewards like few others. Here's the essentials.
What to see
- Cappadocia: the "fairy chimney" landscape, underground cities and hot-air balloons at dawn; magical.
- The turquoise coast (Lycia): beaches, coves and seaside ruins (Ölüdeniz, Kas, Kalkan).
- Spectacular ruins: Ephesus, Pamukkale (the white terraces), Troy, Aphrodisias.
- Istanbul: the fascinating city between two continents (leave the van outside and get around by public transport).
How to get there
It's a long trip: by road through the Balkans, or combined with ferries. Allow plenty of time (weeks) and plan carefully (see planning a big trip).
What you need to know
- It's not in the EU: documentation, a visa if applicable, and insurance covering Turkey and transit countries (see customs). [Note: check current visa and insurance requirements.]
- Temporary vehicle import at the border; respect it.
- Low prices and huge hospitality.
- Variable driving and roads; in the cities, chaos: drive carefully.
- Autonomy for remote areas (see calculator).
- Its own currency (lira); carry cash (see money abroad).
When to go
Spring and autumn are ideal (summer is very hot inland). Cappadocia is magical at any time of year, with its continental climate.
In summary
Turkey is a great trip between Europe and Asia: Cappadocia, the turquoise coast, ancient ruins and Istanbul, with legendary hospitality and low prices, in exchange for distance and preparation. The step to take today: if you're tempted, plan it weeks in advance for spring or autumn, check the visa, insurance and temporary import rules, and travel with autonomy; it's one of those trips you remember for life. Combine it with Greece.