Turkey is a captivating destination that bridges Europe and Asia, offering a diverse blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. As seasoned travelers who have visited Turkey twice, we’ve uncovered some of the country’s most iconic attractions and hidden gems, making it one of our favorite destinations to explore.
From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul and the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia to the pristine beaches of the Turkish Riviera and the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Turkey has something for every traveler. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Izmir, floating on the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, or savoring the flavors of Turkish cuisine, this country offers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
In this section of our travel blog, you’ll find our curated guides, tips, and personal stories from our visits to Turkey. We cover everything from must-see landmarks and off-the-beaten-path adventures to practical advice for planning your trip.
Join us as we share the beauty and diversity of Turkey through our eyes. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking to revisit this incredible destination, our insights will help you make the most of your Turkish adventure.
Traveling to Turkey in 2025 requires caution. The U.S. Department of State classifies the country as Level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution” due to risks of terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Areas such as Şırnak and Hakkari provinces, and the 10 km zone along the Syrian border, are under a “Do Not Travel” advisory due to threats of terrorist attacks and armed conflicts. It’s advised to avoid demonstrations and public criticism of the government, including on social media, as these can lead to arbitrary detentions. Source
Major Turkish cities like Istanbul offer good public transportation options, including metro, trams, buses, and ferries. In Istanbul, there are improvements in accessibility for people with reduced mobility, such as elevators and ramps in metro and tram stations. However, nationwide, accessibility remains limited, especially outside major cities. Source
Turkish culture values hospitality, respect, and modesty. It’s common to greet with a handshake and use expressions like “Merhaba” (hello). When visiting mosques or conservative areas, it’s recommended to dress modestly; women should cover their heads, shoulders, and legs. It’s customary to initially refuse offers out of politeness, accepting after insistence. Turkish tea is an important part of the culture and is often offered as a sign of hospitality.
Homosexuality is not criminalized in Turkey, but there is no legal recognition of same-sex unions. Turkish society tends to be conservative, especially outside major cities. In 2025, the government intensified anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric, declaring the “Year of the Family” and proposing laws that criminalize the “promotion of homosexuality,” with penalties of up to three years in prison. Pride parades remain banned, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples may be frowned upon. Source Source
Check out our travel resources for more tips for your next trip.
This post includes affiliate links that help support this project, allowing us to create high-quality content for you at no extra cost.
Legal notice: All information on this blog is for informational purposes only. Readers should verify its accuracy before making financial or travel decisions.
André and João standing together in Salento, Colombia
We're André and João, a Portuguese couple passionate about exploring the world side by side for over 18 years. We've visited more than 70 countries and completed two self-planned round-the-world trips—always with a spirit of adventure, curiosity, and attention to detail. On this blog, we share what we've learned on the road: practical tips, tested itineraries, and real experiences to help you plan more authentic and fulfilling travels. We believe there's no single "right" way to travel—only what makes sense for you.
Balat and Fener are two of Istanbul’s most authentic and vibrant neighborhoods, known for their narrow streets, colorful houses, and rich history. These neighborhoods are… Read More »What to Do in Balat and Fener: The Complete Guide to Discovering Istanbul’s Most Authentic Neighborhoods
Istanbul is a fascinating city, where East and West meet, blending the old and the modern in a unique way. With iconic views like the… Read More »Where to Stay in Istanbul: 3 Best Areas and Hotels for All Budgets
Deciding what to do in Istanbul is not an easy task. The city is vast and brimming with activities, making it a captivating destination for… Read More »What to do in Istanbul – 10 of the best experiences
Balat and Fener are two of Istanbul’s most authentic and vibrant neighborhoods, known for their narrow streets, colorful houses, and rich history. These neighborhoods are… Read More »What to eat in Istanbul – 10 of the best food experiences
Istanbul is one of the only cities in the world that spans two continents, Europe and Asia. We spent 5 days in Istanbul and we… Read More »5 days in Istanbul: where the east and the west meet
