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TUI expands offer for Turkey as a year-round destination – More flexibility, more choice for customers – Season gets longer

TUI is expanding the season in Turkey. Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations for TUI guests from all markets. 1.9 million guests travelled to Turkey with TUI in 2022. The country is not only a sought-after destination in the summer season. TUI Deutschland customers can book holidays in Antalya all year round. The region on the Turkish Riviera is TUI's fifth largest destination in the winter season. Now the offer is also being expanded for British guests: for the winter season 2023/24, capacities for Antalya will be increased by 30 per cent.

Sebastian Ebel, CEO of TUI Group: "The demand for holidays goes far beyond the classic summer travel season. This is true for many countries in the western and eastern Mediterranean. Customers want a high degree of flexibility. In addition to the classic trips in high summer, there are an increasing number of customers who spend the winter in the south or travel to the holiday regions for sports and cultural activities in spring and autumn. Many regions have prepared well for the longer season and are launching joint initiatives with TUI."

With its integrated business model and its own aircraft and hotels, TUI can react swiftly to changes in demand and make holiday offers possible all year round. Some of the most popular summer destinations are therefore now also attractive in winter. Many of TUI’s German guests like to spend the winter in Antalya, for example. The group is now extending the offer to its British customers as well. It's a win-win-win situation for everyone: TUI guests have even more choice and even more flexibility in planning their holiday trip, they benefit from offers at different times of the season; the longer season pays off for the destinations' tourism strategy and TUI can utilise its aircraft and hotels longer and more efficiently. "Mediterranean destinations are among the top destinations for summer holidays. This will also be the case in the future. But we see clear potential for additional offers throughout the year. The season is getting longer. This creates additional opportunities for the destinations and for TUI," says Sebastian Ebel.

From Germany, TUI already offers year-round tours to Palma de Mallorca, Faro and Jerez in addition to Turkey.

About TUI Group

The TUI Group is one of the world's leading tourism groups and operates worldwide. The Group is headquartered in Germany. TUI shares are listed in the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, in the regulated market of the Lower Saxony Stock Exchange in Hanover and in the FTSE 250, an index of the London Stock Exchange. TUI Group offers its 19 million customers integrated services from a single source and forms the entire tourism value chain under one roof. The Group owns over 400 hotels and resorts with premium brands such as RIU, TUI Blue and Robinson and 16 cruise ships, ranging from the MS Europa and MS Europa 2 in the luxury class and expedition ships in the HANSEATIC class to the Mein Schiff fleet of TUI Cruises and cruise ships operated by Marella Cruises in the UK. The Group also includes Europe's leading tour operator brands and online marketing platforms, for example for hotel-only or flight-only offers, five airlines with more than 130 modern medium- and long-haul aircraft and around 1,200 travel agencies. In addition to expanding its core business with hotels and cruises via successful joint ventures and activities in vacation destinations, TUI is increasingly focusing on the expansion of digital platforms. The Group is transforming itself into a global tourism platform company.

Global responsibility for sustainable economic, environmental and social action is at the heart of our corporate culture. With projects in 25 countries, the TUI Care Foundation initiated by TUI focuses on the positive effects of tourism, on education and training and on strengthening environmental and social standards. In this way, it supports the development of vacation destinations. The globally active TUI Care Foundation initiates projects that create new opportunities for the next generation.

Kuzey Esener

• Press release (PDF)

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Turkey Vacation & Tour Packages

Overflowing with Mediterranean energy and Middle Eastern hospitality, Turkey feels like a continent unto itself.

With Greco-Roman ruins, a sun-drenched Turquoise Coast , tiny hillside villages, delicately decorated minarets, and the world’s most spectacular historic mosques – Turkey is impossible to pigeonhole. If you know where to look among the shifting mountain backdrops, you’ll find one-of-a-kind sights and experiences that will set up camp in your heart. Break bread (and the fast) with new friends during Ramazan in the courtyard of the 17th-century Blue Mosque. Explore the hand-forged cave churches of Cappadocia in a landscape of towering wind-carved fairy chimneys. Sink your teeth into a gozleme filled with veggies you pulled from the dirt yourself. Discover Turkey with a local who is passionate about the land they call home.

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CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Turkey

Culture and customs.

Turkey has a strong national identity and both its location and the legacy of the Ottoman Empire have contributed to a cultural mix of influences from  Europe ,  Asia  and the  Middle East . Cultural practices vary significantly depending on which region of Turkey you are travelling in. It's important to remember that while most Turkish cities are modern metropolises, Turks can still be quite traditional.

Travelers will find Turkish people to be polite and quite formal in their greetings, kind and hospitable as hosts and friendly as new acquaintances. While bars and nightclubs are common in big cities like Istanbul, outside of these environments it’s a good idea to take your cues from the locals and behave in a subdued manner. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, but raucous behavior should be contained to the appropriate venues and kept off the street.

While Turkey is nominally secular, the vast majority of the population identifies as Muslim and Islamic holidays like Ramazan (Ramadan) and Eid are widely observed and recognized as public holidays.

How to be a respectful traveler in Turkey

• Clean your plate If you’re eating with locals (particularly as a guest in their home), you’ll make them very happy if you eat multiple servings and finish everything on your plate. Plan ahead and arrive on an empty stomach for extra points.
• Know when to haggle Remember the first rule of bartering is to decide how much you’re willing to spend beforehand and use that as your guide. In regular shops – as opposed to markets – don’t attempt to haggle over prices.
• Respect the elderly Small gestures like letting elderly folks go ahead of you through doors, offering them your seat on public transport and generally being considerate and respectful of older people will be greatly appreciated.
• Keep criticism private It’s a good rule of thumb not to criticize the culture, government or politics of Turkey. While not all Turks are strict nationalists, you could cause a lot of trouble and offense. You should especially avoid discussing topics related to the Kurdish or Armenian people. When in doubt, follow the conversational lead of the locals. If you’re traveling with Intrepid, ask your leader for guidance. If you’re after a little insight into the geopolitical complexities of Turkey, check out the 'further reading' list below for some perspectives from Turkish authors.

History and government

Ancient history.

There is evidence of hominin habitation in the region known as Anatolia, or Asian Turkey, that dates as far back as 500,000 years and ample evidence of numerous Neolithic settlements popping up between 8000 and 10,000 years ago. 

Notable civilizations who occupied the prehistoric Anatolian region were the Hattians (circa 2500 BC to 2000 BC), the Hittites (circa 1700 BC to 1200 BC) and the Assyrians. From around 2000 BC, Greeks began settling in north-western Anatolia and the southern coasts, establishing individual city-states.

Pre-modern history

The majority of Anatolia was conquered by Alexander the Great in 334 BC. After his death, a succession of various Greek-Macedonian rulers controlled the area until 133 BC when the region was given to the Roman Republic.

Roman control had little impact on the dominant classical Greek culture, which continued to thrive in Anatolia until the region’s absorption into the Byzantine Empire.

Between the sixth and 11th centuries a massive wave of what is known as the ‘Turkic migration’ occurred, and millions traveled across Central Asia into Europe and the Middle East . Among this migratory wave were various Turkic tribes who brought the Islamic religion and Turkic languages that dominate modern Turkey.

The Byzantine Empire sustained a number of invasions and limped forward before finally collapsing in the 14th century, by which point much of Anatolia was already controlled by tribal micro-kingdoms. One of these Turkic tribal groups, the Ottomans, emerged as the dominant regional power during the 15th century and enjoyed a few hundred years of expansion and growth until territorial losses forced its eventual decline in the 19th century.

20th century

The final dissolution of the Ottoman Empire after defeat at the hands of the Allies in WWI was followed by a brief period of Allied occupation before the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk became the republic’s first president and introduced radical reforms to modernize Turkey and imbue it with a unique identity that was separate from that of the former empire. His ideas continue to be influential in contemporary politics today.

In the decades since the death of Ataturk in 1938, Turkey has seen a number of swings between democratic and autocratic governance, interrupted by brief periods of military governance and occasional political chaos.

Turkey today is a presidential republic where the ruling political parties have historically been nationalist and somewhat economically liberal, with a varying amount of Islamic influence. 

Far-left political activist groups and minority rebel groups have waxed and waned in terms of public and political influence. The most notable is the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a militant political group originally formed with the intention of creating a Kurdish separatist state. The arrest of PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan in 1999 was a crushing blow to the once-powerful group, though they continue to operate with the stated aim of ensuring the rights and autonomy of the Kurdish people in Turkey and beyond.   

More recently, Turkey has experienced relative prosperity and political stability, though the economy – based on mineral mining, agriculture, tourism and construction – continues to fluctuate between growth and stasis.

Eating and drinking

Home to some of the tastiest produce you can get your hands on, traditional cooking methods and influence from Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Turkey’s food is surprising, delicious and delightful (pun definitely intended).

Plant-based options

Many Turkish favorites are already non-meat. Gozleme, simit and cig kofte are all vegetarian and easy to find in markets, street corner food stands and restaurants. Vegans will have a trickier time finding pre-made dishes that contain no animal products. However, Turkey has an abundance of markets selling fresh produce, bread and extras like hummus and fava bean dip. With a little planning, vegans will be able to assemble meze-style lunches when pre-made options aren’t available.

In dishes like soups and stews it’s a good idea to watch out for beef stock – called et suyu – as it is used frequently even in ‘vegetarian’ dishes.

Must-try Turkish dishes and beverages

• Gozleme This spinach and cheese pastry is a tasty budget-friendly bite that will satisfy everyone (especially vegetarians).
• Lokum Love it or hate it, this divisive treat (known internationally as Turkish delight) can be found in shops, bazaars and street stalls nearly everywhere in Turkey. Made from rosewater, lemon, sugar, cornflour and water, it's relatively easy to make… and even easier to eat.
• Simit As far as quick and easy snacks go it’s hard to pass up simit, a bread similar to a sesame-encrusted bagel. Carts selling simit can be found at bus and train stations, main streets and other busy thoroughfares in most cities.
• Cig kofte Made with bulgur, onion, tomato paste and spices, this south-eastern specialty is essentially a big ol’ vegetarian ‘meatball’. The traditional kind (made with raw meat) is now banned, so you can eat without fear of food poisoning.
• Fish sandwiches Particularly if you’re spending time in the Bosphorus, a fish sandwich (or balik ekmek) is a must-try local dish. Made with white fish, onion and salad, it’s a simple classic that hits the spot.
• Manti Though the ingredients that fill these handmade dumplings vary, the best kind are filled with lamb and served with yogurt and butter. It’s hard to move after polishing off a plate, but so worth it.
• Turkish coffee Turkish coffee is known around the world for its unique brewing method. It's made with arabica beans which are ground into a fine powder and boiled with cardamom and water in a cevze – a pretty copper or brass pot with a long, thin handle.

Learn more about what to drink in Turkey

Turkey travel highlights

One of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world, the ruins of Ephesus are essential viewing for amateur historians.

Turkey Highlights, 8 days

Turkey: Bike & Kayak, 12 days

Boasting incredible Roman ruins and a harbor that proves the term ‘Turquoise Coast’ is well-deserved, Antalya is a sophisticated slice of Mediterranean Turkey.  

Turkey Encompassed, 15 days

Essential Turkey, 11 days

3. Istanbul

People are passionate about Istanbul. Allow at least a few days to explore the sights of this continent-straddling city and discover the indefinable quality that inspires such devotion.

Taste of Istanbul, 3 days

Turkey Real Food Adventure, 11 days

 The main base for exploring stunning Cappadocia, Goreme has many buildings that are carved into the same soft volcanic rock that forms the fairy chimneys and spires the region is famous for.

Turkey Uncovered, 14 days

5. Mt Nemrut

Hike to the summit of this remote mountain and you’ll be rewarded with the ruins of an ancient mausoleum, including gigantic stone heads which are all that remain of epic statues of various gods.

Turkey Backroads, 5 days

Turkey Explored, 18 days

Cruise to the sunken city of Kekova, where you can swim and snorkel in crystal blue waters, taste fabulous local cuisine, float over an ancient sunken city or explore Lycian tombs.

Geography and environment

A fairly mountainous country sharing borders with Bulgaria , Greece , Syria, Iraq, Iran , Armenia , Georgia and Azerbaijan , Turkey also has wide stretches of coastline along the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Seas.

Blessed with large tracts of fertile soil, Turkey is one of the world's biggest agricultural producers, and visitors can expect to see many farms, orchards, plantations and areas of permanent crops occupying certain regions.

Due to its location, Turkey is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from the rocky, forested coastline of the Black Sea region to the fertile plateaus of the Marmara, the white sand beaches of the Aegean and the limestone formations of the Mediterranean. Adding further environmental diversity, the Anatolia highlands (considered the heartland of the country) feature rugged snow-capped peaks and crystalline lakes.

With one of the biggest bazaars in the world, flea markets aplenty and a cutting-edge contemporary fashion scene in the bigger cities, shopping in Turkey is more diverse than you might think.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country, particularly perishable items. Australia and New Zealand, for example, generally have strict quarantine laws.

A note on ceramics

While beautifully decorated tiles and ceramics overflow from Turkey’s market stalls, you should keep in mind that their point of origin can be hard to decipher. In other words, watch out for fakes. The real deal tends to be pretty expensive (but worth it, if you ask us). Of course, if you’re just after something pretty to remind you of your travels, don’t feel too bad about reaching for the inexpensive option.

Things to buy in Turkey

• Handwoven carpets Turkish carpets are a worldwide phenomenon and represent centuries of artistic tradition woven into a beautiful work of art. Go in with an idea of how much you’re willing to pay and don’t be afraid to bargain a little. Just keep in mind that quality craftsmanship deserves to be rewarded with a fair price. A lot of vendors and stores will give you the carpet in a bag suitable to transport as luggage, or you might consider shipping it back home.
• Nazar boncuk (evil eye talisman) Want to bring home a little piece of Turkey and ward off evil spirits and intentions at the same time? An evil eye talisman is a perfect thing. You’ll see these little blue ‘eyes’ in every shop and the majority of Turks carry one with them wherever they go.
• Jewelry Turkey's artisan-made gold and silver earrings, rings and bracelets are good buys. Bazaars, boutiques, museum gift shops and silversmiths offer a wide range of designs from modern to Ottoman-inspired.
• Brass and copper You can find an assortment of brass and copper decorative objects for the home in the bazaars of Turkey. Serving platters, pitchers, trays, pots and urns will add some souvenir flair to your kitchen.

Festivals and events

If you want an adventure with a point of difference, consider planning your travels to coincide with these popular events.

Whether or not you want to travel during Ramazan (Ramadan) will depend on what kind of adventure you’re after. If you love immersing yourself in local culture and religious practices (and don’t mind a little inconvenience) you might just find traveling during this holy month a fascinating and enriching experience. While the days are dedicated to fasting and contemplation, the evenings are full of colorful celebration and, of course, feasting! Plus, there are fewer tourists around to compete with.

Anniversary of the Anzac campaign

Thousands of people head to Gallipoli every year to pay their respects to fallen Australian , New Zealand and Turkish soldiers who died during the bloody Gallipoli campaign of WWI. The moving dawn ceremony is an iconic event that grows in popularity each year, so if you're hoping to head to Gallipoli in April for Anzac Day, plan ahead.

Efes Pilsen One Love Festival

This annual summer music festival held in Istanbul presents two days of rock, pop, folk and electronic entertainment for masses of locals and visitors keen on soaking up some tunes and summer love.

Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Championships

Want to see thousands of oiled-up men wrestle and grapple with each other? Then this is the festival for you! This wrestling championship is held over several days, usually in late June, when Turkey's national sport is celebrated with gusto and fanfare. Apart from the one-on-one wrestling bouts, there’s Romani bands, traditional food and belly dancers providing the perfect sideshow attractions.

Cappadox Festival

Set in the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, this eco-friendly music festival features artists and musicians performing on solar-powered stages and inside the ancient caves that the region is famous for. Held around June, the festival was originally an annual event but has moved to a biennial timetable.

Learn more about festivals in Turkey

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Turkey adventure, check out these books:

• Turkey: A Short History – Norman Stone
• The Bastard of Istanbul – Elif Shafak
• Last Train to Istanbul – Ayse Kulin
• Poems of Nazim Hikmet – Nazim Hikmet
• Istanbul: Memories and the City – Orhan Pamuk
• Portrait of a Turkish Family – Irfan Orga
• A Fez of the Heart – Jeremy Seal
• Turkish Coast Through Writers' Eyes – Rupert Scott (ed.)

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Turkey but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already traveled to the crossroads of Europe and Asia and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

• Greece tours
• Cyprus tours
• Bulgaria tours

Turkey travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Turkey?

You may need a visa to enter Turkey depending on where you’re from. Foreign nationals from several countries will need an e-visa that allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, including:

• South Africa

Travelers from many countries – including  New Zealand , the  United Kingdom , Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,  Japan , Norway, Sweden and  Switzerland  – don’t require a visa for stays of less than three months if the trip is for tourism or business purposes.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey is typically during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October when the temperatures are still warm and there aren't yet large summer crowds.

For the best beach weather, the hottest time of year is June and July, however, this collides with the summer holidays, so it will be busy.

The cooler months are quieter and accommodation (when still open) is cheaper.

If you are planning to travel to the eastern reaches of Turkey during Ramadan/Ramazan, it’s important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours. However, the carnival atmosphere that erupts when the fast breaks in the evening is magical, so travelers who enjoy immersive cultural experiences might prefer to travel during the holy month.

What's the weather like in Turkey?

The weather in Turkey depends on the time of year and region you're visiting. The southern coastlines typically experience a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and wet winters, while the interior regions can experience drastic temperature changes and even snow.

If you're planning on swimming, the water is generally still warm up until the start of November and October is great as it's much quieter.

Weather in Istanbul is fairly temperate, sheltered from severe weather by its proximity to the coastlines.

Is tipping customary in Turkey?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Turkey, a cash tip that equals a small percentage of the total bill is very much appreciated in restaurants.

It's also customary to tip staff while visiting hammams (bathhouses). It's not necessary to tip taxi drivers, although rounding up the fare for convenience is commonplace.

What is the internet access like in Turkey?

Free wi-fi is common in Turkey’s cities, but the quality of connection varies. Alternatively, Turkey has an abundance of internet cafes in large cities, and most of them serve coffee and snacks so you can refuel while you catch up with folks back home.

Internet access can be spotty or non-existent in rural areas, so it’s best to treat travel in these regions as an opportunity for a digital detox. 

Can I use my mobile phone while in Turkey?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Turkey, especially in large cities. Coverage may not be available in more remote areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile.

What are the toilets like in Turkey?

Turkey has a mix of Western-style and squat-style toilets, sometimes with a jug of water for manual flushing. The latter becomes more common the more remote the region, however, there's typically a Western-style toilet in every bathroom.

Toilets are known as WCs (short for water closets) in Turkey.

Many public toilets require a small payment of roughly 2-10 TRY for use, so make sure you carry change when out and about.

You may find the standards of hygiene and sanitation in Turkey are laxer than you are used to so it's a good idea to carry toilet paper and hand sanitiser if you are concerned.

What will it cost for a…?

Turkey's unit of currency is the lira (TRY). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Half-litre of beer = 50-60 TRY
• Simit (local bread roll) = 10 TRY
• Casual restaurant meal = 300 TRY
• Mid-range restaurant meal = 600 TRY
• Basic hammam visit = 1000 + TRY/50 EURO

Can I drink the water in Turkey?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Turkey. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water or carry water purification tablets with you. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist shopping areas and large hotels in Turkey, but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors, in remote towns and rural areas. We recommend carrying cash for purchases to avoid being caught out.

What is ATM access like in Turkey?

ATMs are available in large cities in Turkey but are not common in rural areas and smaller towns. Be prepared for this by having enough cash before traveling out of the city.

What to wear in Turkey

Turkey can get quite warm in summer and during the shoulder seasons but it’s important to remember that clothing that covers you from elbows to below the knee is appropriate in (or even around) mosques. Think linen pants, lightweight tops/shirts and long dresses. Female travelers should also carry a scarf on them to wear when visiting mosques.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Turkey?

• 1 January New Year's Day
• 23 April National Sovereignty and Children's Day
• 1 May Labour Day
• 19 May Youth & Sports Day
• 15 July Democracy and National Unity Day
• 30 August Victory Day
• 29 October Republic Day

View a full list of public holidays in Turkey .

The 30-day Islamic holy month of Ramazan (Ramadan) is widely observed in Turkey. The exact dates change every year, so it’s important you check when Ramazan will take place in the year you plan to travel. As a general rule, there are five consecutive public holidays observed at the beginning of the month and a few observed at the end.

The level of celebration varies considerably depending on what part of Turkey you are in. The east has a larger Muslim population and therefore a more devoutly observed Ramazan, whereas the southern and western coasts will be less affected.

Kurban (Eid al-Adha)

A four to five-day public holiday is observed during Kurban (Eid al-Adha), though like Ramazan the exact dates of this observation change every year.

Is Turkey safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

LGBTQIA+ travelers should be aware that while Turkey is nominally secular it can also be very conservative. As such, negative attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ individuals are common, particularly outside major cities.  

While same-sex relationships and non-normative gender presentation are not against the law in Turkey, LGBTQIA+ people have no legally enshrined protection from discrimination. Legal prohibitions against ‘ offenses against public morality’ can and have been used to persecute LGBTQIA+ folks, though the likelihood of this being used to target travelers is low.

Transgender travelers, in particular, should be aware that trans people in Turkey report being the targets of violence and overt discrimination. 

Istanbul and Ankara have established queer scenes, both of which are primarily oriented around cisgender gay men and to a lesser extent cisgender gay women. However, same-sex couples are still unlikely to engage in public displays of affection in these cities.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Turkey accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

While infrastructure is improving, much of Turkey remains difficult to navigate for wheelchair users and people with mobility concerns. Many cities in Turkey have been occupied for thousands of years and their design reflects that, with little regard given to making streets and attractions accessible. Travelers with impaired mobility will find that while tourist locales in Istanbul, such as hotels and mosques, are fitted with ramps and connected by an accessible tram, getting around the rest of the city can be challenging. Rural regions like Cappadocia will be difficult for travelers with mobility impairment to navigate independently. 

Squat toilets remain the norm in many parts of Turkey, which can pose problems for travelers with certain disabilities.

Traffic in Turkey can be chaotic, and even when traffic lights and pedestrian crossings exist drivers do not always obey them. Taxis are, for the most part, not wheelchair-friendly.         

Travelers who use battery-operated hearing aids should consider bringing a stash of extra batteries, as they can be difficult to locate in Turkey.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Does my trip to Turkey support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Turkey directly support our foundation partner, C ontemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) . 

Contemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) provide scholarships and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in Turkey. Donations from our trips fund a program where young scholarship awardees undertake outreach workshops with marginalized children in regional villages. Workshops include information sessions on gender equality, health, law, culture, and other human rights topics.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Turkey you may find yourself staying in a:

These locally run guesthouses are the perfect blend of a comfortable homestay and a hotel, combining well-situated and authentic Turkish accommodation with modern conveniences.

Immerse yourself in local village life and enjoy Turkish hospitality (and food) during a homestay. Share a home-cooked meal with your hosts and embrace the slow life.

How will I be traveling around Turkey?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending what trip you're on while in Turkey, you may find yourself traveling by:

Explore the rugged beauty of Turkey’s coast on a traditional Turkish sailing gulet. Spend days exploring submerged ruins and nights cozied up on deck under the stars.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Vacations in Türkiye

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Most popular türkiye flight and hotel deals, all inclusive vacation packages to türkiye, last minute vacation packages to türkiye, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in türkiye, tips for finding türkiye package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Türkiye and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $378; Family vacation $368; Romantic vacation $379; Luxury vacation $410; Budget vacation $358.

Why should you book a vacation package to Turkey?

When should you book a vacation package to turkey.

The best time to visit Turkey is in the spring when prices are more affordable and the weather is more temperate. Make sure to stop by Istanbul for the annual tulip festival which honors the city's signature flower. The Istanbul Tulip Festival takes place in most city parks throughout April.

Where should you stay in Turkey during your vacation?

For any vacation type in turkey:.

Four Seasons Hotel at Sultanahment is a stone's throw away from the old city center which houses the famous Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar. The Istanbul metro will easily transport you between Sultanahmet and Ataturk International Airport just under 10 miles away.

Swissotel in Istanbul offers some of the best views of the Bosphorus strait and has conference rooms and spa facilities available whether you're travelling for business or pleasure. Take advantage of the Swissotel's shuttle service to easily connect with Ataturk or Sabiha Gokcen Airport.

For family vacations in Turkey:

Sealife Family Resort Hotel in Antalya offers a wide array of kid-friendly activities including arts and crafts, outdoor pools, and nightly performances. Conside renting a car from Antalya Airport to take advantage of other day excursions in the area.

Radisson Blu Bosphorus Hotel has a little bit of something for everyone including nearby Istanbul parks for the kids and relaxing Bosphorus café views for the adults. This hotel allows you to pre-book your airport transfer for ease of mind when traveling as a family.

For romantic vacations in Turkey:

Rixos Pera in Istanbul is located in the heart of Turkey's biggest city, with upscale furnishings and professional staff who can guide you towards the best local attractions. Take the Havtas bus from Ataturk International Airport for a cheap and fast trip to Rixos Pera.

Limak Lara Deluxe Hotel in Antalya offers all-inclusive accommodation on the Mediterranean coast and boasts several restaurants, pools, game rooms, and a nightclub. Shuttles from Antalya International Airport can be pre-arranged for a smooth transition to your relaxing Turkish beach getaway.

For luxury vacations in Turkey:

Club Hotel Sera in Antalya offers luxurious middle-eastern décor that will make you feel like a sultan while you sit back and enjoy serene Mediterranean views. Taxis are available at Antalya International Airport to help you relax and enjoy the journey to Club Hotel Sera.

Daru Sultan Hotel Galata is just a 10 minute walk from the famous Galata Tower in the center of Istanbul's main shopping district. The fixed price Havatas shuttle will take you from Ataturk International Airport to Taksim without worrying about your directions getting lost in translation with local cab drivers.

For budget vacations in Turkey:

The Ibis Izmir Alsancak offers clean, safe, mid-level accommodation close to the center of one of Turkey's most progressive cities. A wide selection of taxis is available to transport you from Izmir Airport to your downtown Izmir hotel.

Julian Club Hotel in the Mediterranean city of Marmaris is a cheaper alternative to other coastal destinations such as Antalya and Izmir, offering outdoor pools and spa services. There are regular shuttle services with fixed prices between Dalaman airport and Marmaris city center.

Where to stay in Türkiye

Türkiye vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Gulet Cruises in Turkey

Sail on azure blue seas with waters just meters away from your cabin, it's easy to see why a gulet holiday in Turkey is hard to pass. With 6 gulet cruise adventures ranging from 4 days to 15 days, you'll escape the crowds by gliding on this wooden yacht.

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6 turkey gulet cruise packages with 15 reviews.

Turquoise Blue - Fethiye / Kekova / Fethiye

The boat wat trip was excellent but I ws seriously overcharged by Fez (by about £100 ) for the return trasfers to/from the airport. I will therefore noy use this company again

Fethiye-Kekova-Fethiye Blue Cruise

Olympos - Fethiye Blue Cruise (Cabin Charter)

Turkish Sailing (8 Days) (including Bodrum)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Blue Lagoons

One of the nicest guys i have ever met, was so helpful, lovely and passionate and made everyone feel welcome and was always fun!

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Family Turkey Coastal Active Adventure and Cruise

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Travel Styles

• Turkey Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

• Motor Yacht – 1
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• Destinations of Turkey
• Bosphorus Cruise & Spice Bazaar (Half Day Morning)
• Bosphorus & Two Continents Tour ( Full Day )
• Old city Tour ( Half Day Morning )
• Europe 18-29’s Tours
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• Europe Cruises
• Multi Country
• Turkey Packages
• Daily Istanbul Tours
• Istanbul Packages

Best destinations

Easy booking, local offices, local support, popular tours.

Gallipoli & Troy & Assos Tour 2 Day 1 Night from istanbul by Bus

Gallipoli, Troy and Pergamon Tour By bus from istanbul to Selcuk or Kusadasi

Daily Gallipoli Tour from istanbul by Bus.

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If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask us. Please also call us or email us before visiting to make sure that you will be served with our best services.

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Our recommendations in  istanbul.

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• Point Hotel
• The Marmara Hotel Taksim
• Acropol Suites
• Taşkonak Hotel
• Avlonya Hotel
• Black Bird Hotel
• Park City Hotel Taksim
• Kalyon Hotel
• Golden Crown Hotel
• Golden Park Hotel Taksim
• Barcelo Eresin Topkapı
• Inter Beyazıt
• Ortaköy Princess Hotel
• Askoç Hotel
• City Center Hotel
• CVK Hotel Taksim
• Crowne Plaza Hagia Sophia
• President Hotel
• Erguvan Hotel
• Riva Hotel Taksim
• Albatros Hotel
• Oprera Hotel İstanbul
• Bulvar Palas Hotel
• Akgun Beyazıt Hotel
• Alkoçlar Keban Hotel
• Akdeniz Hotel
• Legacy Ottoman Hotel
• Eterno Hotel
• Divan Hotel Taksim
• Antea Palace Hotel
• Magnaura Palace Hotel
• Golden Age 1
• Conrad Hotel
• End Suite Hotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel Pera
• Golden Park
• Pera Palace Jumeriah
• Monopol Hotel
• Titanic City Hotel Taksim
• Sapphire Hotel Old City
• Four Seasons Bosphorus
• Dedeman Hotel
• Olimpiyat Hotel
• CVK Hotel Bosphorus
• Empire Palace Hotel
• Seminal Hotel Taksim
• Parksa Hilton
• Point Hotel Barbaros
• Avantgarde Hotel Taksim
• Ottoman's Tuğra Hotel
• Innova Hotel
• Blue House Hotel
• Ramada Plaza Taksim
• Armada Hotel
• Zurich Hotel
• Erten Konak Hotel
• Sultania Hotel
• Antea Hotel
• Sürmeli İstanbul Hotel
• Tour starting Point
• Golden Horn Sultanahmet
• Azade Hotel
• Emine Sultan Hotel
• Grand Haliç
• Carlton Hotel
• Arden Park Hotel
• Euro Plaza Hotel
• Grand Hyatt Hotel
• Sura Design Hotel
• Golden Horn Sirkeci
• Hilton İstanbul
• Sarnıç Hotel
• Sarıkonak Hotel
• Taxim Suites Hotel
• Armada Pera Hotel
• Bazaar Laleli Hotel
• Ottoman Imperial Hotel
• Golden City
• Golden Hill Hotel
• Midtown Hotel Taksim
• Ritz Carlton Hotel
• Park Hyatt Hotel Maçka
• Zeugma Hotel
• Central Palace Hotel
• Raymond Hotel Sirkeci
• Nippon Hotel
• Tulip City Hotel
• Alzer Hotel
• Byzantium Hotel
• Senatör Hotel Taksim
• Armagrandi Spina Hotel
• Amiral Palace Hotel
• Germir Palace
• Eresin Taksim Hotel
• Faros Hotel Old City
• Nanda Hotel
• Fehmi Bey Hotel
• Holiday Inn Şişli
• Martı Hotel İstanbul
• Orient Express Hotel
• The Peak Hotel
• Akgün İstanbul Hotel
• Baron Hotel
• Elite Prestige Hotel Taksim
• Orka Royal Hotel
• Sirkeci Konak Hotel
• Vicenza Hotel
• Richmond Hotel
• Faros Hotel Taksim
• Metropark Hotel
• Ottoman's Life Hotel
• Pera Tulip Hotel
• Antik Hotel Beyazıd
• Akçınar Hotel
• La Maison Hotel
• Grand Cevahir
• The Marmara Pera Hotel
• Avicenna Hotel
• Adora Hotel
• Holiday Inn İstanbul City
• Erboy Hotel
• Empress Zoe Hotel
• Palazzo Donizetti Hotel
• Crystal Hotel Taksim
• Çırağan Palace Hotel Kempinski
• Four Seasons Old City
• Arcadia Blue Hotel
• Pierre Loti Hotel
• Mia Pera Hotel
• Green Park Hotel Taksim
• Ottoman Park Hotel
• Yaşmak Sultan Hotel
• Bunk Hostel Taksim
• Marriott Hotel Şişli
• Legend Hotel
• Elite World Hotel Taksim
• Adamar Hotel
• Dersaadet Hotel
• Amethyst Hotel
• Rixos Hotel Taksim
• Amissos Hotel
• Lamartine Hotel Taksim
• Grand Öztanık Hotel Taksim
• Lady Diana Hotel
• Amber Hotel
• Ambassador Hotel
• Evsen Hotel
• Tayhan Hotel
• Küpeli Hotel & Küpeli Palace Hotel
• Senatör Hotel Laleli
• Prince Hotel
• Alahan Hotel
• Gezi Hotel Bosphorus
• Sude Konak Hotel
• Seven Hills Hotel
• İpek Palas Hotel
• Bergama Hotel
• Double Tree Hilton Old City
• Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
• Cartoon Hotel
• Kaftan Hotel
• Eresin Premier Hotel Taksim
• Adahan Hotel
• Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
• Centrium Hotel
• Arden City Hotel
• Dark Hill Hotel
• Grand Yavuz
• Seres Hotel
• Neorion Hotel
• Barın Hotel
• Kervansaray Hotel Taksim
• Megara Palace Hotel
• Feronya Hotel Taksim
• Taksim Gonen Hotel
• Swissotel İstanbul
• Crowne Plaza Harbiye
• The Plaza Hotel
• Rixos Pera Hotel
• Orient Mintur
• Beyaz Saray
• Citadel Hotel
• Valide Sultan Konağı Hotel
• Lares Park Hotel Taksim
• Bentley Hotel
• AC Macka Hotel
• Sultanahmet
• Taksim Region
• The Marmara Hotel at Taksim Square
• Bosphorus Region
• Miran Suite
• Central Suites
• Anka Business Park
• Harmony Hotel
• Bosna Hotel
• My Garden Suites
• Idylle Hotel
• Royal Taksim Suites
• Sultan Tughra Hotel
• Signature Suites
• Zeynep Sultan Hotel
• Galata M84 Apart Hotel
• Perapolis Hotel
• Armoni Life Hotel
• Adahan DeCamondo Pera
• Sultan Mehmed Hotel
• Sapko Airport Hotel
• Anadolu Hotel Apart
• Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus
• Hotel Sultania
• Four Seven Hotel
• Sumengen Hotel
• Ciwan Hotel
• The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
• Maywood Hotel
• Nova Plaza Pera
• Turkuaz Suites
• Hotel Yonca
• Senyor Garden Hotel
• Step Apartments
• The Bold Hotel
• Folux Apart
• 105 Residence
• Modern Sultan Hotel
• Sherry Suites Karakoy
• Suleymaniye Hotel Oldcity
• Mari Time Hotel Istanbul
• AG Sisli Hotel & Residence
• Sultan House
• Maduro Hotel Istanbul
• Movenpick Hotel Istanbul Bosphorus
• Rio Suite Hotel
• Walnut Shell Hotel
• Istanbul Gonen Hotel
• Sultanahmet Inn Hotel
• B&B Suit Apart Taksim
• Erten Konak
• Mercure Istanbul West Hotel & Convention Center
• Marmaray Hotel
• World Point Hotel
• Ramada by Wyndham Istanbul Alibeykoy
• Diyar Budget Hotel
• Daylight Aparts
• Black Suite Atasehir
• Burckin Hotel
• Celine Hotel Taxim
• Taksim Residence
• Bella Hotel
• Albatros Premier Hotel
• Royal Suitess
• Tamara Residence
• Ada Homes Hotel Taksim
• Asia Lees Inn Hotel
• All Inn Hotel
• Hotel Akcinar
• Best Town Palace
• World Heritage Hotel Istanbul
• Regno Hotel
• Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel
• Alpinn Hotel Due
• Darkmen Hotel
• DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul Topkapi
• Aren Suites
• Mini House Old City
• Wanda Vista Istanbul
• Pasha Moda Hotel
• Arti Boutique Hotel
• Express Inci Airport Hotel
• IQ Hotel Galatasaray
• The Elysium Styles Taksim
• Blue Home Suit Hotel
• Tria Hotel Istanbul
• Uranus Istanbul Topkapi
• Sultanahmet Endless Hotel
• Kadak Garden Hotel
• Hotel Yeni Sefa
• Buem Hotel Kosuyolu
• Prime Suites Ataturk Airport Hotel
• Hotel Rids Garden
• Karakoy Port Hotel
• Liberi Hotel Taksim
• Galata Hotel & Suites
• Mim Hotel Istanbul
• Aziyade Hotel
• Royal Galata Hotel
• Kadikoy Akasya
• Gunay Hotel
• Holiday Inn Istanbul Airport, an IHG hotel
• The Trinity Hotel Taksim
• Arkem Hotel&Suite 2
• The Tango Hotel Taksim
• Zagreb Hotel
• Bomonti Aparts Istanbul
• Istanbul Hotel
• White Palace Hotel
• Four Sides Taksim Lion Hotel&Spa
• Hotel Marina City
• Veyron Hotels & SPA
• Halifaks Hotel
• Golden Age Hotel
• Petros Hotel
• Metropolitan Hotels Taksim
• Zimmer Hotel Bosphorus
• Hotel Bera House
• Babil Hotel
• Aydinoglu Hotel
• The Marmara Sisli
• Grand Mark Hotel
• Zion Home Butik Otel
• Aram Apart & Suites
• Favori Hotel
• Recital Park Hotel
• Berlin Hotel
• Tophane Suites
• Taksim BrickTown Suite
• Hotel Bossuite Business
• Daru Sultan Galata
• Gulec Hotel
• Hotel Istanbul Trend
• Hotel Genova
• Splendor Suite
• Crowne Plaza Istanbul - Florya, an IHG hotel
• Sultan Hamit Hotel
• Nevi Hotel & Suites Istanbul Taksim
• Gytha Hotel
• Vatan Yurt Hostel
• Hotel Centrum Istanbul
• Istanburg Efes Hotel
• Capitol Suites Old City
• Asia City Hotel
• Titanic City Taksim
• Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus
• Taksim Gonen
• Hotel Evsen
• Hatay Hotel
• Sisli House Suite Hotel
• Pera Line Suite
• Boss Hotel Sultanahmet
• Kavacik Hotel Life
• JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus
• Santa Ottoman Hotel
• Grand Konak Otel
• The Marmara Taksim
• Etiz Residences
• Deniz Hotel
• Hurry Inn Merter Istanbul
• Class Suites Taxim
• Green Parrot Hotel Istanbul
• Endless Hotel Taksim
• Red White Hotel
• La Petra Eski Datca
• Merit Halki Palace
• The Sisli Hermes Park
• Mile Hotels Nisantasi
• Melas Hotel Istanbul
• Old Port Hotel Suit
• Novotel Istanbul Zeytinburnu Hotel
• Business Life Hotel
• Hotel Sah Konak
• Elfida Suites
• Diamond City Resort Hotels
• Petrol Hotel Palace
• Aspera Hotel Golden Horn
• Innova Sultanahmet Hotel
• Grand Hotel Gulsoy
• Amethyst Hotel Istanbul
• Hotel Sari Konak
• Class Apart Otel
• Hotel Istanbulinn
• Ayasofya Hotel
• Boutique Riva Hotel
• Best Group Apartments & Suites
• Hotel Nanda
• Hotellino Istanbul
• Lagertha Hotel & Suite
• The Haze Karakoy
• Kecik Hotel
• Taksim Ariel Hotel
• Boutique California Hotel
• Taksim Park Hotel
• Occidental Taksim
• City Center Hotel Taksim
• Endican Beyazit Hotel
• Tilia Hotel
• Just Inn Hotel
• Port Bosphorus Hotel
• Eliza Hotel
• Taksim Tulip Rezidans & Hotel
• Grand Sile Hotel
• The City Hotel
• Seyithan Palace Hotel
• Eresin Hotels Sultanahmet - Boutique Class
• Samir Hotel Deluxe
• Ardilas Suites & Residence
• Sirkeci Mansion
• Hisar Hotel
• Hotel Bulvar Palas Old City
• Kervansaray Hotel
• Atlantis Royal Hotel
• Ar Hotel & SPA
• Akka Lush Hotel
• Emirtimes Kadikoy Hotel
• Vatan Suites
• Glens Palas Istanbul
• Istanbul Calinda Suites
• Pera Line Cihangir
• Sorisso Hotel Due
• Marinem Istanbul Laleli Hotel
• Tac Yuvam Apart Hotel
• Atasehir Palace Hotel & Conference
• Grand Anka Hotel
• Hisar Bayazit Otel
• Sibesa Hotel
• Taksim Square Hotel
• Istanbul Matiat Hotel
• Medellin Apart Hotel Istanbul
• Tashkonak Studio Suites
• Ibis Istanbul Airport
• The Galataport Hotel
• Agaoglu My City Hotel
• Acacia Mansion Hotel
• Taxim Trend Apart
• Esma Deniz Apart
• Barkod Otel
• Listana Hotel
• My Mira City Spa Hotel
• Hotel Kralice
• Xenia Hotel Istanbul
• Holiday Inn Istanbul City, an IHG Hotel
• Galatas Hotel Istanbul
• Hotel Monopol
• Midtown Hotel
• Dinar Hotel
• Confores Hotel
• Walton Hotels & Spa Nisantasi
• Hotel Empress Zoe
• Grand Sami Hotel
• Sanli Suite Hotel
• D&D Suites
• Vali Konak Hotel
• Orabella Hotel
• Walton Hotels Sultanahmet
• Marble Hotel
• Skalion Hotel & Spa
• Hanedan Hotel
• Bazaar Hotels Old City
• Allstar Color Hotel Istanbul
• Ferman Apart Hotel
• Rox Hotel Istanbul Ataturk Airport
• Hotel Residence Istanbul
• Garth of Balat Hotel
• Avantgarde Taksim Hotel
• Mare Park Hotel
• Dorne Suite Taksim
• Restwon Suit
• Grand Hotel de Londres
• Hotel Celine Istanbul
• Big Orange Hotel
• The Independent Hotel
• Beethoven Senfoni Hotel
• Korupark Hotel
• Akin Suites Istanbul
• Eurostars Hotel Old City
• Hotel Mola Galata
• Harem Hotel
• Han Hostel Airport West
• Hampton Istanbul Atakoy
• HHK Hotel Downtown
• Lazzoni Hotel
• White Palace Apart
• Nomade Hotel
• Rose Rooms Apart
• Ramada by Wyndham Istanbul Golden Horn
• Seranda Hotel
• La Garden Hotel
• Blue Tower Suit Hotel
• Radisson Blu
• Hotel Princess Old City
• Meserret Palace Hotel Istanbul
• Dizayn Palace
• Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
• Evin Suit Hotel
• Hotel Boursier 2 & Spa
• Espinas Hotel
• The Istanbul Suite
• Hotel Yasmak Sultan
• Laleli Gonen Hotel
• No 4 Suites
• Hotel Inter Istanbul
• Park Hyatt Istanbul - Macka Palas
• KA Hotel & Suites
• Eastanbul Suites
• Grand Peninsula Hotel
• Sapanca Bamboolow Resort
• Vogue Hotel Supreme Istanbul
• Golden Tulip Istanbul Bayrampasa Hotel
• Delita City Hotel
• CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
• Golden Horn Park Hotel
• Galataport Suites
• Grand Aras Hotel & Suites
• Anatolia Suites
• Flamingo Hotel Istanbul
• WOW Istanbul Hotel
• Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosphorus
• Blu Hotel Istanbul
• Heaven Taksim Hotel
• Kupeli Hotel
• Four Points By Sheraton Istanbul Kagithane
• Eresin Hotels Topkapi
• Barin Hotel
• Airport Best Hotel
• Hotel Vicenza
• Eysan Hotel
• Aprilis Gold Hotel
• IST Flats Serviced Apartments - Batisehir
• Hotel Mevlana Bazaar
• Ottoman Time Hotel
• Backyard Of Galata
• Royal 61 KadIkoy
• Abam Hotel Istanbul
• Hotel Temiz
• Arts Hotel Istanbul
• Nobel Hotel
• Walton Hotels Taksim
• Beyce Hotel
• Hotel Arcadia Blue
• Byotell Hotel stanbul
• Darkhill Hotel
• Blue Ottoman Hotel
• Hotel Venera
• Saklikoy Country Hotel Club
• Metrolux Hotel
• Armoni City Otel
• Mineo Hotel Taksim
• Panorama Suites Old City
• Han Suite Hotel
• Al Madina Hotel
• Logacy Ottoman
• The Bank Hotel Istanbul
• Grand Makel Hotel
• The Million Stone Hotel
• Seven Rooms Old City Hotel
• Valens Hotel
• The Grand Tarabya
• Trakya Grand Hotel
• Taksim Palace Hotel
• Turvan Hotel
• Pasha Palace Hotel
• Sultans Royal Hotel
• Gulliver Mansion Hotel
• Barcelo Istanbul
• Festinn Suites Golden Horn
• Polatzade Hotel
• Diamond Pruva Hotel
• Florya House Hotel
• City Apart Istanbul
• Osmanbey Fatih Hotel
• Weingart Hotel
• Long Stay Istanbul
• The Row Taksim Hotel
• The Q-Inn Hotel Istanbul
• The St. Regis Istanbul
• Barbera Hotel
• Dedeman BostancI Hotel & Convention Center
• Victory Hotel & Spa
• Volga Suites
• T Square Residence
• World Heritage Center Hotel
• Hotel Bosfora Plus
• Four Sides Sisli
• Sultanahmet Hotel
• Omar Sultan Taksim
• Mevlana Hotel
• Marma Hotel Istanbul
• Radisson Blu Residence, Istanbul Batisehir
• Lord Morgan & Exclusive Design Nisantasi
• Hotel Boursier
• Hotel Morione
• Hit Suites Beylikduzu
• Hotel Turkoman
• Cemed House
• Wisteria Boutique Hotel Bomonti
• Cityloft 64
• Interstellar Hotel
• 39 Kalamis Marina Hotel & Restaurant
• Allstar Sevcan Airport
• Bon House & Hostel
• Avrasya Queen Hotel
• Burgu Arjaan by Rotana
• Blue Gilroy Hotel
• Gulseda Otel Apart
• Suadhan Hotel
• Prime Center Hotel
• Taksim ABC Hotel
• Grand Liza Hotel
• Aspen Hotel
• Istanbul Garden Suite
• La Mer Boutique Suite
• Holiday Inn Express Istanbul - Atakoy Metro
• Anadolu Hotel
• Biter Hotel
• Ocean's 7 Hotel
• Turquhouse Boutique Hotel
• Askin Hotel
• Comfort Elite Hotels Old City
• Meroddi Pera Hotel
• Ilkay Hotel
• Galata La Bella Hotel
• Roe Suite Hotel - TAKSIM
• Regard Hotel
• BC Burhan Cacan Hotel & Spa & Cafe
• Sahrakent Suite
• IQ Hotel Beyoglu
• Ever Hotel Asia
• Ferman Hotel Old City
• Gonul Sultan Hotel
• Taksim Prelude Hotel
• Casa de Frida's Besiktas
• Holiday Inn Express Istanbul Airport
• Istanbul Comfort Holiday Hotel
• Orka Royal Hotel & Spa
• Elite World Prestige Hotel
• Hotel Fresia
• Peri Hotel Taksim
• Bankerhan Hotel
• P. Galata Boutique Hotel
• Delbab Hotel
• Royan Hotel Hagia Sophia Istanbul, A Member of Radisson Individuals
• Timeks Hotel
• Nuray Hotel
• Hotel Antique
• Seven Suite Taksim
• Istanbul Apartments
• La Vista Hotel
• Mukarnas Taksim Hotel
• The Halich Hotel Istanbul Karakoy
• Radisson Hotel President Beyazit Istanbul
• Best Western Antea Palace Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Buyuk Sahinler
• Sofa Hotel Istanbul Autograph Collection
• Sirinhan Hotel
• New Cherry Hotel
• Kadikoy Arya Hotel
• Tonight Hotel Port
• Grand Star Hotel Bosphorus
• Air Boss Hotel
• Dem Istanbul Airport Hotel
• Sur 2 Hotel
• Beramus Hotel
• Hotel Ozsefa
• Pianoforte Hotel
• Madison Hotel
• Yazar Hotel
• Fidan Suites
• Sura Design Hotel & Suites
• Elit Palace Hotel
• Sala Suites
• Hotel Washington
• La Quinta by Wyndham Istanbul Gunesli
• Ramada by Wyndham Istanbul Grand Bazaar
• Obelisk Hotel & Suites
• Grand Istanbul Airport Hotel
• Serhat Apart Otel
• Sehzade Hotel
• Nish Palace Umraniye
• Hotel Linda
• Nur Suite Hotel
• Beyazit Tower Hotel
• Hotel Sapphire
• Devman Hotel
• Raymond Hotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Vadistanbul
• Kafkas Hotel
• Liberty Hotel
• Baran Home Aparts
• Grand Balyan Hotel & Restaurant
• Santra Hotel
• The Magnaura Palace Hotel
• Delta Hotels By Marriott Istanbul Halic
• Old City Yavuz Hotel
• Windsor Hotel & Convention Center Istanbul
• The Milltown Sisli
• Arena Hotel Special Class
• Hotel Mosaic
• Elm Suite Hotel
• Hotel Sumengen
• Lavanta Hotel
• Fuat Pasa Yalisi
• Daisy Hotel Istanbul
• Helios Hotel Istanbul
• The Marions Suite
• My Golden Hotel
• Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel
• Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection By Hilton
• Walton Gardens Pera
• Ayasultan Hotel
• Mardy Suit Hotel
• Ramada Plaza By Wyndham Istanbul City Center
• Six Senses Kocatas Mansions Istanbul
• Beyazit Palace Hotel
• Hayriye Hanim Konagi Hotel
• Royal Tophane
• Istanbul Hostel
• Vezir Hotel
• Verna Hotel
• Royal Stay Palace Hotel
• Mall of Tem Suit
• Limak Eurasia Luxury Hotel
• The Stay Nisantasi
• Historial Hotel
• Surmeli Istanbul
• Grand Medya Hotel
• White Corner Hotel
• Sultanahmet Coskun Hotel
• New Fatih Hotel
• Hotel Di Poesia
• Ayasofya Apart Hotel
• Delux Hotel
• Le Marde Hotel
• Fanda Suites
• The Luxx Boutigue Hotel
• Balin Boutique Hotel
• Asia Business Suites
• Eresin Hotels Express
• La Mer Boutique Hotel
• La Cielo Suites Hotel
• Corpus Suites Istanbul
• Ala Sofia Hotel
• GLK PREMIER Sea Mansion Suites & Spa
• New Taksim Hotel
• Taksim Lion 37 Studios
• Pasaport Pier Istanbul
• Diana Hotel
• Mister Istanbul Hotel
• Aston Residence
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Nat Geo Day Tour: Istanbul's Finest Coffee and Confectionery

Discover Istanbul's heritage on a guided walking tour, visiting renowned gourmet instititutions to sample their delicacies and diving deep into the history of Turkish coffee and culture.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Fener-Balat, from Orthodox to offbeat

Visit historic Greek and Bulgarian sites in Istanbul, Ahrida Synagogue and the colorful steps, and savor Turkish local delicacies.

Istanbul dinner cruise with Turkish night show

Enjoy an unforgettable evening on the Bosphorus with this dinner cruise. Be fascinated by the belly dancers entertaining you throughout the night.

Topkapi Palace & Harem Fast Track Ticket and Guided Tour

Enjoy the Topkapi Palace tour with a historian guide, save queueing with a fast track ticket and learn the history of the Ottoman empire.

Skip the line ticket and guided tour to the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul

Discover one of the most fascinating places of Istanbul: the Basilica Cistern, the largest of several hundred cisterns hidden under the city.

All-in-one Istanbul tour with sunset yacht cruise

Make the most of your limited time in Istanbul with this all-in-one Istanbul tour featuring a sunset cruise on a yacht.

Bosphorus and Black Sea cruise with lunch

Experience Istanbul from the water on this Bosphorus cruise that will take you to the meeting point of the strait and the Black sea.

Bursa, Uludag Mountain, cable car guided tour from Istanbul with lunch

Go for a nature trip in Bursa. Visit a Turskish delights factory, the Green Mausoleum taste a traditional lunch and enjoy the view from the top of the Uludag.

Istanbul Classics - Half Day Morning Tour

Get all the best information for the Istanbul Classic half day morning tour in Turkey and book your tickets, at official rates. Get informed, plan and book your Istanbul tours.

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Rhythm of the dance show

Book your tickets to the live Rhythm of the Dance show in the heart of Istanbul with Musement. Experience the energy and fire of traditional Turkish dancing combined with modern choreography!

Istanbul gold combo day tour with Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and private boat cruise

Experience the heart of the Old City visiting the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Covered Bazaar with a private boat tour on the Bosphorus.

Two Continents Tour in Istanbul

Discover the best of Istanbul, travel on a minibus around the city to see attractions and enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus Straight.

View all activities in Istanbul

No food or drink on easyJet and Tui Gatwick flights during catering workers strike

S trikes by catering staff in the coming month will leave passengers flying from Gatwick Airport with easyJet and Tui unable to purchase food and drinks on board, the union behind the action has claimed.

Announcing a series of walkouts, Unite said the strikes by Dnata Catering staff was due to the company’s “unilateral removal of a shift allowance” for all workers last April.

It said that this has led to all Dnata’s workers receiving a pay cut of between £1,500 and £2,000 a worker.

Around 100 workers, including HGV drivers and warehouse workers, will strike from Friday 26 April to Monday 29 April, from Friday 3 May to Monday 6 May and from Friday 10 May to Monday 13 May.

Unite warned that strike action will intensify if the dispute is not resolved.

The Emirates Group-owned firm has been accused by the union of falsely claiming that Unite agreed to the removal as part of a deal that saw the introduction of a night shift premium.

“Our members have run out of a patience with Dnata’s double-dealing and blatant dishonesty. Ending the shift allowance in return for a night premium was never part of the deal and the company knows that,” said Unite general secretary Sharon Graham.

“Unite never accepts attacks on our members’ jobs, pay or conditions and Dnata’s workers have their union’s total backing during these strikes.”

Dnata caters for all easyJet flights from Gatwick, with the airline having 200 flights a day during busy periods, meaning there will no food or drink available on any of the airlines’ flights from the airport between those dates.

Unite says that the lack of food and drink will affect easyJet’s revenue, with the sale of snacks and beverages on flights a major income generator.

Other flights will also be impacted as Dnata caters for several other Gatwick-based airlines, including Tui.

The Independent has contacted easyJet and Tui for comment.

More to follow...

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F.B.I. Examining Free Airfare Upgrades Received by Adams

Federal prosecutors and F.B.I. agents are scrutinizing international flights taken by Mayor Eric Adams of New York aboard Turkey’s national air carrier, Turkish Airlines.

By William K. Rashbaum ,  Michael Rothfeld and Dana Rubinstein

Federal authorities investigating Mayor Eric Adams’s campaign fund-raising have been examining valuable flight upgrades they believe he received from Turkish Airlines that elevated him to its highest class of seats available on international trips, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The scrutiny is part of a broad corruption inquiry that has already led the F.B.I. to search the homes of the former top New York-based executive of Turkish Airlines and aides to Mr. Adams, who has frequently traveled abroad and has made no secret of his affinity for flying on the Turkish carrier.

The investigation burst into public view in November after F.B.I. agents searched the homes of the former airline executive, Cenk Öcal, the mayor’s liaison to the Turkish community, Rana Abbasova, and his chief fund-raiser, Brianna Suggs — and seized Mr. Adams’s electronic devices.

The inquiry has shaken an administration that has become increasingly mired in investigations and beset by legal and ethical problems .

The broader investigation has focused at least in part on whether the Turkish government conspired with Mr. Adams’s mayoral campaign to funnel foreign money into its coffers, and whether Mr. Adams pressured the New York City Fire Department to sign off on Turkey’s new high-rise consulate in Manhattan despite safety concerns.

Mr. Adams’s relationship with Turkish Airlines has extended beyond that of simply being a passenger. He has attended meetings and events with representatives of the air carrier, which is half-owned by the Turkish government’s sovereign wealth fund. Some of those interactions took place in the presence of Turkish business leaders and diplomats with their own close ties to Turkey’s government and its president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan and F.B.I. agents conducting the inquiry have developed evidence that Mr. Öcal helped arrange at least some of the upgrades in coordination with Ms. Abbasova, two of the people familiar with the federal investigation said. They and others interviewed for this article spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing federal investigation.

Mr. Adams, who extolled Turkish Airlines in 2017 when he told a pro-government publication that the carrier “is my way of flying,” received the upgrades both while serving as Brooklyn borough president and as mayor, on both official and personal trips, some of the people said.

Brendan R. McGuire, a lawyer for the mayor and his 2021 campaign, said there was nothing wrong with Mr. Adams’s receipt of the upgrades.

“As borough president, the mayor consistently disclosed his official travel to Turkey, did not receive any improper upgrades and did nothing inappropriate in exchange for an upgrade,” Mr. McGuire said. “Speculation is not evidence. We look forward to a just and timely conclusion to this investigation.”

The F.B.I. searches on Nov. 2 prompted the mayor’s abrupt return from a trip to Washington, D.C., where he was seeking federal aid for the city’s migrant crisis. They were followed by weeks of news coverage focused on the corruption inquiry, but agents and prosecutors have made few public moves since then.

Mr. Adams has not been accused of wrongdoing, and it remains unclear whether the investigation will lead to criminal charges against him, Mr. Öcal, Ms. Abbasova or anyone else.

A lawyer for Ms. Abbasova, Rachel Maimin, declined to comment. After repeated attempts to reach Mr. Öcal, including visits to his New Jersey home and messages left with his wife, he declined to answer questions or provide the name of his lawyer.

A representative of Turkish Airlines declined to comment, as did spokesmen for the F.B.I. and the federal prosecutors from the U.S. attorney’s office for the Southern District of New York, who are jointly conducting the inquiry.

Mr. Adams has long boasted of being an avid traveler, and he has taken trips in recent years to Turkey, the Dominican Republic , Trinidad and Tobago, Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico, Monaco , Ghana , Azerbaijan, Greece, Israel , Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar , Senegal and China . He has talked about retiring to Azerbaijan, Israel and Lebanon.

It was unclear how many free upgrades Mr. Adams accepted while flying Turkish Airlines or what their total value was. In 2023, round-trip business class seats on Turkish Airlines between the United States and Turkey generally cost at least $3,400 apiece — or about four times as much as an economy class seat, travel industry experts said.

It was also unclear what, if anything, Mr. Öcal, the airline or the Turkish government might have gained from awarding the upgrades.

But Mr. Adams received the upgrades during a period in which he and the airline were developing a close relationship, a New York Times review of city emails suggests.

Mr. Adams has flown on Turkish Airlines since at least August 2015, when as Brooklyn borough president he took an official trip to Turkey and the carrier funded travel that his aides valued at about $1,500.

Mr. Adams took a second official trip four months later, justifying it by saying he needed to speak about “city marketing” at a conference, meet with local officials and visit a refugee camp, city records show. Mr. Adams flew Turkish Airlines on that trip as well, according to the records.

On another trip to Turkey in 2017, this time in a private capacity, he gave an interview praising Turkish Airlines to The Daily Sabah, saying that it accommodated his dietary needs and lauding its security protocols.

Sent from 2015 to 2021, while Mr. Adams was borough president, the emails reviewed by The Times make reference to a series of private meetings between Mr. Adams, Turkish Airlines executives and Turkish government officials and businesspeople, as well as appearances with them at public events.

Often the meetings and appearances were arranged through Ms. Abbasova, Mr. Adams’s liaison to the Turkish community.

More than a few involved Mr. Öcal, who appeared to be on a first-name basis with Mr. Adams. “Cenk from turkish airlines opening,” Mr. Adams wrote to his staff in response to one invitation to an event, possibly referring to Mr. Öcal’s speaking slot. Mr. Öcal would later serve as one of several hundred people on Mr. Adams’s mayoral transition team.

The first meeting described in the emails was scheduled for May 2016, when Ms. Abbasova inquired if he could attend a “dinner w Turkish Airlines.” The emails did not specify with whom he would be meeting, but his assistant responded that he would be available.

He agreed to another meeting, a dinner with Mr. Öcal at Liman, a Turkish restaurant in Brooklyn, in April 2017, the emails show. Also scheduled to attend were the chairman and treasurer of the Türken Foundation, an American charity with close ties to the Turkish government. It was incorporated in 2014 by a son of Mr. Erdoğan and another man, who at the time was a board member of Turkish Airlines. Mr. Erdoğan’s daughter currently sits on its board .

The Türken Foundation’s chairman, Behram Turan, its treasurer, Memiş Yetim, and another board member would go on to give a total of $6,000 to Mr. Adams’s mayoral campaign from 2018 to 2021, contributions that were first reported by The City . Mr. Adams’s campaign refunded $1,000 to Mr. Turan to comply with the rules of the city’s public matching funds program.

Reached late last year, Mr. Turan, an engineer who lives in New Jersey, said he was an American citizen who has lived in the country for 30 years. He added that there was nothing inappropriate about his donation. On Thursday, Mr. Yetim said he could not remember the dinner with Mr. Adams. Mr. Turan declined to comment.

In September 2017, Mr. Adams attended a Türken Foundation dinner and event with Mr. Erdoğan at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Manhattan. Mr. Adams would later present Mr. Yetim with a proclamation honoring the Türken Foundation for “outstanding achievements and contributions to society.”

In December 2017, Mr. Adams was scheduled to attend another dinner, this time with Turkish consular officials, at a Brooklyn seafood restaurant run by two of his close friends . Mr. Öcal and another top Turkish Airlines official were on the guest list, the emails show.

In 2019, the emails show, Ms. Abbasova passed along an invitation from Turkish Airlines for Mr. Adams to attend a gala at the Metropolitan Club in Manhattan. Mr. Adams had another event that night but an internal staff memo noted that he would do his best to attend, the emails show. Ms. Abbasova would be on site and provide frequent updates, the memo said.

Mr. Adams did make it to the event, which featured Turkish dishes, a raw bar and high-end cocktails. He even took the microphone to speak, according to an article in Elite Traveler, a luxury lifestyle publication, which published photos of the event, including several of Mr. Öcal in a shiny blue tuxedo. Mr. Adams was the only city official listed in the account of the night, along with Turkish consular officials and diplomats, business leaders and Martha Stewart.

Mr. Adams won the Democratic mayoral primary in June 2021. Soon after, he contacted the commissioner of the New York Fire Department at the time and urged him to allow the opening of the Turkish consulate building, which had been held up over fire safety concerns. The building received a temporary certificate of occupancy that September — shortly before Mr. Erdoğan presided over the consulate’s grand opening in Manhattan .

Mr. Adams previously said it was part of his role as borough president “to notify government agencies of issues on behalf of constituents and constituencies.”

In May 2022, the Turkish Philanthropy Funds , a New-York based nonprofit devoted to supporting social investments in the Turkish and Turkish American communities, held its 15th anniversary gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Mr. Adams, who made remarks at the event, was there in a dark suit, posing with the foundation’s chairman and the night’s honoree, the billionaire founder of the strained yogurt company Chobani.

Mr. Öcal was there too, and was photographed in a tuxedo with the Turkish ambassador to the United States and their wives. It is unclear if he interacted with Mr. Adams that night. Their fortunes had gone in opposite directions.

Mr. Öcal had been fired by Turkish Airlines by then, according to a Turkish news report, and Mr. Adams was newly ensconced as the mayor.

Susan C. Beachy contributed reporting.

William K. Rashbaum is a senior writer on the Metro desk, where he covers political and municipal corruption, courts, terrorism and law enforcement. He was a part of the team awarded the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News. More about William K. Rashbaum

Michael Rothfeld is an investigative reporter in New York, writing in-depth stories focused on the city’s government, business and personalities. More about Michael Rothfeld

Dana Rubinstein covers New York City politics and government for The Times. More about Dana Rubinstein

Explore Our Coverage of the Adams Administration

Campaign Inquiry : Federal authorities investigating Mayor Eric Adams’s campaign fund-raising have been examining valuable flight upgrades  they believe he received from Turkish Airlines that elevated him to its highest class of seats available on international trips.

Burger King and Baptisms: Adams keeps finding eye-catching ways to seize the spotlight on the issue of public safety , even when the narrative turns against him.

Gun-Detecting Technology: Adams announced that New York City planned to test technology  to detect guns in its subway system as officials seek to make transit riders feel safe after a deadly shoving attack.

Grappling With Acts of Violence: Adams was recently confronted with two tragic events that crystallized some people’s persistent fears  about the city: the shooting death of Police Officer Jonathan Diller  and a man being fatally pushed into the path of a subway train  in an unprovoked attack.

Sexual Misconduct Accusations: A woman has accused Adams  in a lawsuit of asking her for oral sex in exchange for career help in 1993 and sexually assaulting her when she refused. Adams said the accusation was completely false .