Turkey

Turkey is a hugely popular tourist destination, for many good reasons.  What more does the average holidaymaker ask for other than sun, sand, sea, and relaxation – as well as a variety of sports activities and the availability of day trips to fascinating historical sites.  Millions of British tourists and Europeans visit Turkey each year.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR TURKEY
To find out about European Travel Insurance Click Here.

The resort areas of Bodrum, Kusadasi and Antalya are particular favourites among Europeans.  The capital city, Ankara, is the second largest city after Istanbul, and both cities offer visitors an array of fascinating sights and attractions.

Before booking your trip to Turkey, always pay a visit to the Foreign Office website to review their important and updated travel advice and information as part of their ‘Know Before You Go’ campaign.  In particular, check to see whether any advisories against travel to any specific areas of Turkey are currently in effect.  

If you plan to drive in Turkey read the FCO advice regarding license requirements, and especially regarding penalties for drinking and driving.
 

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - TURKEY
Useful travel advice from the Foreign & Commonweath Office for travel to Turkey.
Click Here

Turkey offers a wide array of extreme or potentially hazardous sports, especially water sports.  Always check your travel insurance to make sure that your planned activities are covered. 

The FCO warns that visitors to Turkey should exercise caution and avoid any political demonstrations or large street gatherings.  It is important to read up on the local laws and customs to avoid causing offence, especially regarding dress code.  

Visitors should also be mindful and respectful if visiting during times of the year such as Ramadan (approx. July/August, but check for the precise dates as they can vary).  The FCO advice for Turkey contains a special section regarding travel to Muslim countries and those intending to visit should read this information to avoid encountering problems or causing offence. Be aware also that many restaurants may be closed or on a limited opening schedule during the fast.

Smoking is banned on all types of public transport in Turkey (including, ferries, trains and taxis). It is also banned at outdoor venues, such as cafes, restaurants, stadiums, etc. and the penalty is a fine.  Be aware that visitors must carry photo identification at all times. Currency is the Turkish Lira.

Check the FCO information regarding passport validity and visa requirements for visiting Turkey – and be careful not to overstay your visa.

At the time of writing, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which provides for free emergency medical care to those who are eligible, is not valid in Turkey.  It is very important to take out adequate Travel Insurance for your stay, and check that it includes medical repatriation.  Visitors sometimes develop diarrhoeal illness when visiting Turkey, so it is important to be aware of food and drink hygiene.  Private medical care is expensive and without insurance visitors are solely responsible for payment of any bills. 

Disclaimer: While we have tried to ensure the information in this Travel Guide is correct we do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy, or the content of external links.

Inclusion in this Travel Guide does not guarantee travel insurance is available in any country at any given time. Travel Insurance is not available in countries where the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have issued an advisory against travel.

You are strongly advised to visit the FCO website for updated travel information and general travel advice before you travel.