Interesting things to do in Turkey

If you are looking for some interesting things to do in Turkey during your visit, here are a few options you can consider;

Visit the Dolmabahce Palace

One of the most famous Turkey things to do is to check out the renowned Dolmabahce Palace. Built by the Ottoman Empire, this palace was inspired by Rococo, Neoclassical, and Baroque styles of architecture. Frequently included in many Turkey packages, you may need half a day to see all the 285 rooms in this massive palace complex, which includes four spacious living rooms, five stunning staircases, six galleries, six exotic Turkish baths, and 43 washrooms. The French and Italian artisans who did the interiors did a fantastic job, and it is estimated that over 45 tons of gold went into the decorations. The chandelier in the Throne Room has a breathtaking 750 lamps and weighs 4.5 tons. Make sure to go for Turkey tour packages that feature a visit to this site.

Explore Kaleici

Exploring Kaleici, which is the old town part of Antalya, on foot is one of the most interesting things you can do in Turkey. With the beautiful architecture preserved from the Roman-Byzantine era, you will feel like you have been transported back in time. You will find quaint bed-and-breakfast inns that still have the antique charm and serve exotic breakfasts for those with hearty appetites. You can indulge in some shopping from the small curio shops that sell local handicrafts, jewellery, garments, hand-painted pictures, etc. There are a lot of filigree artefacts, and you can carry back souvenirs to keep the memories of your Turkey tour fresh long after you return. To explore Kaleici properly, find Turkey packages that include a short stay in Antalya.

Check out Anitkabir

One of the most fun things to do in Turkey is to check out the Anitkabir, the iconic square bang in front of the mausoleum of the Atta Turk. Located in Ankara, this gigantic complex that gives you a 360-degree view of Ankara was built with perfect precision. Notice the gold leaf-laid ceiling, with statues of guards standing as silent sentinels at the entrance. You’ll notice a lot of greenery and trees around the place, which is neat and well-maintained. The rare trees were sent by 25 countries worldwide in memory of the great ruler of the land. India alone donated 250 Himalayan Cedars that have grown into mammoth trees. Most popular Turkey tour packages include Anitkabir sightseeing.

Kemaralti Market

The marketplace lies in the heart of Izmir and has existed for several hundred years. You can still feel the ambience of a bygone era in the market selling exotic goods. The market has several small shops selling a wide variety of fabric and garments, silver and other metal jewellery, linen, Turkish coffee, gipsies reading fortunes, and many more knick-knacks. You can haggle or bargain and bring the prices down until you feel you are paying the right price. Overall, it is a fun experience, with plenty of exotic food on sale on carts and in small eateries. Make sure to look for Turkey packages that will give you enough time to explore this market.

Saklikent Milli Parki

It is a unique experience wading through the shallow waters of Saklikent Milli Parki that rush forward to fall into an 800-ft-deep gorge. There is equal awe among locals and tourists at this stunning site. The water body is flanked by restaurants offering delicious food you’ll remember for a long time. If you are more adventurous, you may want to go rafting and have the adrenaline rushing through your veins. Consider going for Turkey tour packages that give you sufficient time to check this site out.

Adventurous things to do in Turkey

Here are some thrilling things to do in Turkey for adventure seekers;

Cappadocia Safari

You can explore the interiors of the Cappadocia by going on an exciting safari and watching the intense landscapes. The stunning volcanic formations of the Rose Valley and Love Valley in Cappadocia are some of the most renowned Turkey attractions for tourists. As you go on with the Quad safari, you will witness the majestic sunset fading into the background, which is one of the best things to see in Turkey.

The two-hour guided tour includes pick up and drop from your hotel, and protective gear like helmets are included in the cost, which is pretty reasonable. Two adults are allowed to ride a Quad, and it is up to you how fast you wish to go in the rough terrain. Some Turkey tour packages may feature this experience as a standard inclusion.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

The hot air balloon ride across the Goreme Valley is one of the most exciting things to do in Turkey if you don’t fear heights. Have the winds caress your face while you sail far above Cappadocia, and watch the beautiful Goreme Valley below. You may want to go on the trip that starts at dawn, and you slowly drift past the rock formations known as “fairy chimneys”. 

Watch the bronze-age cave dwellings that are the pride of Cappadocia. The bird’s eye view is stunning and offers a fantastic photo opportunity. You can opt for the round-trip offer, get picked up right from your hotel, and end the trip with a champagne toast as a celebration.  So, if you are not afraid of heights, add this to your Turkey itinerary. Also, make sure to look for Turkey holiday packages that include this activity first before you start to plan for it yourself.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in the Cappadocia Valley is another extremely fun and adventurous activity you can try during your Turkey trip. Riding past the pristine landscape, you’ll be stunned by the magical colours and the flora found in the valleys. You can go in groups, and hotel transfers are included in the riding trip. You will be accompanied by an experienced tour guide on this journey. You will also get midway breaks to refresh yourself with snacks and drinks available easily. Horseback riding helmets are included in the package, as are private hotel transfers. If you are interested in this activity, make sure to enquire in advance which Turkey packages feature it as a standard inclusion. 

Bosphorus Yacht Cruise

For people who love sailing, the Bosphorus yacht cruise can be a memorable part of the Turkey tour. The Bosphorus straits form the dividing line between Europe and Asia, and the Bosphorus yacht cruise takes you past the stunning sea. The live commentators will describe the areas you sail past, and there is a brief stopover on the Asian side. 

The classic waterfront sights are magnificent, and sailing past the palaces, bridges, the Rumeli Fortress, and Maiden’s Tower presents some fantastic photo opportunities. You can sip authentic Turkish coffee, nibble on some delicious snacks, and make use of the free on-board Wi-Fi. You may or may not find the Bosphorus Yacht Cruise as a standard inclusion in some Turkey packages.

What to eat in Turkey?

Apart from checking out the best available Turkey tour packages from India, make sure to research the local Turkish delicacies. Some popular choices are;

Piyaz

Piyaz is a unique salad available in Antalya that is made with Candir, a smaller version of the old butter bean grown in the region by the same name. Exotic scent Candir is cooked with tahini, a little water, salt, vinegar, lime juice, and garlic. Olive oil is added to get the perfect finish. During your Turkey tour, make sure to look for and try the traditional version of Piyaz, where chopped soft-boiled egg is mixed into the dish prior to serving.

Ezo Gelin Corba

This delicious dish has a very interesting legend tied to its origin and is a highlight of Turkey tours and travels. It is a savoury soup containing domato salca (tomato puree), red lentils, finely chopped onions, and tomatoes and served with a sprinkle of chilli flakes and dried mint to add flavour. Believed to be originating from a small village near Turkey’s Gaziantep City, Ezogelin Corba has become a favourite of both locals and tourists.

Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a traditional Turkish side dish with zucchini, eggplant, chilli, and tomatoes. Most of the vegetarian dishes in Turkey are in the Mediterranean style, cooked in olive oil, known as zeytinyagli yemegi in local parlance. Depending on where you try Shakshuka in Turkey, you will find some variations in its seasoning and use of different chillies. Shakshuka is a very delectable dish that you shouldn’t miss out on during your Turkey tour.

Kisir

Kisir is a famous Turkish salad made from tomatoes, parsley, garlic, mint, and a generous touch of broken bulgur wheat. Each region in Turkey has its version of Kisir. Still, the one available in Antalya tops the list because of the additional ingredients of nar eksisi (fermented pomegranate molasses) and pul biber (red chilli flakes) that give it a hot and spicy twist which you can enjoy during your Turkey tours and travels.

Mercimek Kofte

Mercimek Kofte is a vegetarian delicacy that is also known as belluh. It is made from broken bulgur wheat, red lentils, salt, finely chopped tomatoes and onions, scallions, red pepper paste (aci biber salca), and cilantro. Mercimek Kofte is served as small, easy-to-bite pieces and makes a great afternoon snack. It is best eaten with a twist of lemon and rolled onto a fresh lettuce leaf. Even if you don’t find Mercimek Kofte included under meals in the popular Turkey tour packages from India, make sure to try it out by yourself.

Yaprak Dolma 

Yapkrak Dolma comes in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions. The Isparta, vegetarian version is made with rice cooked with ripe tomatoes and parsley, finely chopped onions, garlic, tomato puree, black pepper, salt, water, and olive oil. The heady mixture is a filler rolled onto a vine leaf. The non-vegetarian version has minced meat added to the above ingredients before cooking.

Best Indian Restaurants in Turkey

Besides browsing through the available Turkey holiday packages, individuals should also note down the following Indian restaurants in the country they can consider visiting;

Dubb Indian Restaurant

While on your Turkey tours and travels, consider checking out the Dubb Indian Restaurant, located at a minute’s walking distance from the heart of Istanbul. It is one of the best places in Turkey where you can try delicious Indian dishes. The place remains operational from 12 AM to 10:30 PM, serving a mouthwatering range of Indian dishes, such as Biryani, Paranthas, Butter Chicken, etc. Besides its good food quality, the restaurant is also quite affordable, with an approximate dining cost for two individuals being TRY 100 to 300.

Musafir Indian Restaurant

The Musafir Indian Restaurant in Istanbul is another well-known restaurant you can check out during your Turkey tour. The elegant indoor and outdoor seating, mixed with great service and warm ambience, makes it a fine choice in the city. Serving customers since 2004, the Musafir Indian Restaurant is also a very budget-friendly option with an approximate cost of TRY 50 to 100 per person.

Masalaa Magiic Indian Restaurant

The Masalaa Magiic Indian Restaurant is another great restaurant that you will find in Istanbul, Turkey. Located at a 10-minute drive from the city centre, the place is known for its traditional home-cooked style meal, pleasant ambience and prompt service. It is the perfect place to go to for all your Indian food cravings at a reasonable price. You can eat at this restaurant for as low as TRY 10 to TRY 50. Make sure to try their kebab and butter chicken during your visit.

Shopping in Turkey

If you are confused about what gifts and souvenirs to purchase when shopping in Turkey, check out the following options;

Turkish Blue Evil Eye Amulet

Locally called Nazar Boncuk, the Turkish Blue Evil Eye Amulet is a popular market item that you can purchase during your Turkey tours and travels. It is known for bringing good luck and protecting one from mishaps. Besides, its beautiful blue colour looks great as pendants, bracelets or casual home/office decor.

Where to find: Some of Turkey’s best places to visit for buying Nazar Boncuk are the Grand Bazaar, Diva Bazaar, and Beyoglu El Sanatlari Evi.

Rugs and carpets

The traditional Turkish handmade rugs and carpets can also be an interesting purchase as gifts or for personal use. Made with high-quality materials like bamboo fibre, cotton, silk, etc., these vibrant-coloured rugs and carpets are also offered with shipping options in case you are unable to carry them with you.

Where to find: The local markets and shops in Istanbul are a great location for buying Turkish rugs and carpets during your Turkey tour.

Turkish mosaic lamps

If you are looking for home decor items, nothing can beat the beautiful and intricately designed Turkish mosaic lamps. These lamps can be ideal as both gifts or souvenirs and will surely be the centre of attraction in any room where they are placed.

Where to find: The Kapali Carsi marketplace in Istanbul is a well-known place where you can buy high-quality mosaic lamps while on your Turkey tours and travels.

Coffee and tea sets

Tea and coffee sets are available all across the markets and stores in Turkish cities. These are some of the most frequently bought items by tourists during their Turkey tours and travels. These intricately designed sets will surely highlight your tea/coffee time back at home and can be an elegant way to welcome guests.

Where to find: One of the best places in Turkey where you can buy tea and coffee sets is the Kemeralti Bazaar in Izmir. 

Interesting facts about Turkey

Here are some fun and interesting facts about Turkey that you should know about prior to your trip;

• Istanbul extends to two continents: The residents of Istanbul can claim that they are Asians by night and Europeans during the day or vice versa. The city is divided by the Bosphorus Straits, putting part of the city in Asia and part of it in Europe. However, most of Istanbul (95%) is in Asia, and the rest (5%) is in Europe.
• The capital of Turkey is Ankara, not Istanbul: Istanbul used to be the capital city of three empires, Byzantine, Rome and Ottoman. However, contrary to popular belief, it is not the current capital of Turkey as that title is held by Ankara.
• Istanbul was earlier known as Byzantium: You may have heard of the Byzantine Empire, originating from the Greek word Byzantium. The term refers to Byzas, the founder of Istanbul, which was known as Byzantium when it was established. The name later changed to Constantinople. In 1930, the city got its current name – Istanbul.
• Turks Love Tea More than Coffee: You may have heard of Turkish brew too frequently, which generally refers to coffee. However, the truth is that over 95% of the population prefers to drink tea. Don’t forget to try it yourself during your Turkey tours and travels.
• Turkey is the primary source of Hazelnuts: An interesting fact about Turkey is that it produces around 75% of the total hazelnuts in the world.
• Turkey has 82,693 Mosques: Although Saudi Arabia and Pakistan top the list with the most significant number of mosques, Turkey also boasts 82,693 mosques at last count. One of the biggest and best is the Sultanahmet Mosque, popularly known as the Blue Mosque of Istanbul.
• Serving Turkish Tea: As mentioned earlier, the Turkish drink more tea than coffee. Serving tea is steeped in tradition and is followed more like a ritual that shows the host’s hospitality. Don’t be surprised if a Turkish family welcomes you with a hot cup of tea, which means they like you and are trying to be friendly.
• Oil Wrestling: One of Turkey’s most exciting and action-packed traditions is oil wrestling, which takes place in every corner of the country. This traditional sport can be dated back to Mesopotamia, where it originated. History has it that the sport started in 1362 as the exciting Kirkpinar oil wrestling championship in Erdine. The wrestlers soak themselves in oil and try to grapple with each other, and the many slips and falls add to the fun element. The end of June is the best time to go Turkey to witness this traditional sport.

Turkey Culture

The culture of Turkey is very diverse and includes various elements derived from other cultures like Central Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, etc. A normal handshake is often given when meeting someone new in Turkey, while a kiss or two on the cheek is the common way to greet close family members and friends. Food in Turkey is a crucial aspect of the local culture, and its wastage is highly frowned upon. The residents of Turkey are very hospitable, and frequent get-togethers are very normal in the local culture. Reading coffee cups after finishing the beverage is a well-known practice in Turkey. The dressing style in Turkey is a very interesting and stylish one. The local men usually go for clothes with sombre colours, with popular styles being baggy trousers and waistcoats. The local women, especially in the village areas, prefer the traditional attire. Weddings in Turkey are grand occasions marked by elaborate ceremonies, rituals and celebrations. The Turkish population observes and celebrates a wide number of traditional events and festivals, including the holy month of Ramadan.

Turkey visa for Indian tourists

Indian tourists will need to apply for and acquire a visa for their Turkey tours and travels. Though Indian passport holders are not eligible for the Turkey visa on arrival option, they can easily opt for the eVisa feature. The validity of this visa is up to 30 days, which is sufficient for more trip plans. You can easily get your Turkey visa from the online visa services offered by Thomas Cook. Just visit the official website, choose the destination country, type of visa, and branch and provide the communication details. You will then get the quote, after which you can proceed with the online payment and document submission process. After this, you will receive your Turkey visa very soon.

Foreign currency for Turkey visit

The official Turkey currency is called the Turkish Lira, denoted by the code TRY and sign ₺. For your Turkey trip, you will need the local Turkey currency for your expenditures in the country. As of now, the 1 Turkish Lira is equivalent to 3.10 INR. You can easily buy forex for your Turkey trip via the online forex services offered by Thomas Cook. Just go to the official website, choose the currency type, check rate (Forex card or cash), and forex amount and provide your contact details to get a quote. After that, choose a delivery method and complete the online payment. Once complete, you will obtain your Forex order receipt along with your foreign currency within the specified time.