Things to do in Turkey
2 destinations in Turkey, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.
Places to visit in Turkey
- Things to do in Antalya beach, culture, relax
- Things to do in Istanbul city, culture, food
Best time to visit Turkey
When flights to each destination are cheapest.
- Antalya
- The cheapest months to fly to Antalya are November through March (outside beach season), with fares often 40-50% lower than the July-August peak. Mid-week departures on Tuesday or Wednesday typically save an additional 10-15% versus weekend flights.
- Istanbul
- Fly in November through February (excluding New Year's) for the cheapest fares, typically 30-45% below peak summer prices; mid-week departures (Tuesday and Wednesday) save an additional 10-15% compared to Friday or Sunday travel.
Is Turkey expensive?
A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.
- Antalya
- About $26 a day on a shoestring, about $178 comfortably.
- Istanbul
- About $27 a day on a shoestring, about $192 comfortably.
Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.
Free things to do in Turkey
- Antalya: Hadrian's Gate Stroll Walk through a triumphal Roman arch built in 130 AD and explore the atmospheric Kaleiçi alleys for free
- Antalya: Konyaaltı Beach Long public pebble beach with mountain backdrop, bring your own towel and skip the sunbed rental
- Antalya: Ataturk Park & Cliff Promenade Sweeping coastal clifftop park with sea views perfect for a sunset walk
- Istanbul: Walk the Galata Bridge Fishermen, street food vendors, and panoramic Golden Horn views, all completely free.
- Istanbul: Explore Balat neighborhood Colorful Ottoman-era houses, street art, and a vibrant local atmosphere with no entry fee.
- Istanbul: Visit the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) Wander through mountains of spices, dried fruits, and Turkish delight in a stunning 17th-century arcade.
Cheap eats in Turkey
- Şimşek Pide Salonu in Antalya, Kaşarlı pide (Turkish flatbread pizza with cheese) Plates $2-5
- Merkez Kebap (Old City area stalls) in Antalya, Döner dürüm wrap with ayran Plates $2-4
- Balıkçı Hasan (Fish Market, Kaleiçi) in Antalya, Grilled sea bass or anchovy with bread and salad Plates $6-10
- Karaköy Güllüoğlu in Istanbul, Baklava by the portion with tea Plates $1-3
- Tarihi Karaköy Balık Ekmek in Istanbul, Balık ekmek (grilled fish sandwich off the boat) Plates $2-4
- Sahin Lokantası (Fatih district) in Istanbul, Ev yemeği (home-style stew, rice, and salad set) Plates $3-6