Find and Book Cheap Flights to Turkey for Your Next Trip

Spring offers mild temperatures perfect for sightseeing in Istanbul or hiking through the valleys of Cappadocia without the summer heat.

Summer is the peak time for beach lovers. Coastal resorts are bustling, and the weather is hot and sunny.

Autumn brings cooler air but warm seas, making it an excellent time for both culture and relaxation.

Winter is the time for budget flights to Turkey. You can find snow in the mountains or enjoy quiet cities.

Turkey has an extensive and affordable public transport network. In cities like Istanbul, the Istanbulkart is essential for using metros, trams, and ferries. For intercity travel, the domestic flight network is excellent, with cheap flights to Izmir, Ankara, and Antalya frequently available. Long-distance buses are also a high-quality option, featuring comfortable seating and onboard service. If you prefer driving, car rentals are available at all major airports, but be aware that traffic in major cities can be very heavy. Taxis are plentiful; always ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fixed price for long distances beforehand. For a local experience, try the 'dolmus'—shared minibuses that run on set routes and are very inexpensive.

Turkish culture is known for its hospitality. When visiting mosques, both men and women should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees; women will also need to cover their hair. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or a mosque. While Turkey is a secular country, it is predominantly Muslim, so being respectful during the month of Ramadan is appreciated, especially in less touristy areas. Tipping is common in restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill. When shopping in bazaars, bargaining is a standard practice and part of the social interaction—start by offering about half the initial price and meet in the middle. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases like 'Merhaba' (Hello) and 'Teşekkür ederim' (Thank you) will be warmly received by locals.

Turkish food is incredibly diverse, ranging from the famous kebabs of the southeast to the olive oil-based dishes of the Aegean coast. Don't miss out on a traditional Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı), which is a feast of cheeses, olives, honey, and eggs. Street food is high quality and safe; try 'simit' (sesame bread rings) or 'balık ekmek' (fish sandwiches) by the Bosphorus. For a local tip, avoid the 'tourist menus' in main squares and look for 'Lokantas'—tradesmen restaurants where you can see the freshly cooked food in bains-marie and pay very low prices for authentic home-style cooking. Always drink bottled water rather than tap water. To finish your meal, enjoy a glass of Turkish tea (çay) or a strong Turkish coffee, which is a vital part of the local social fabric.

Turkey is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any popular travel spot, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas like the Grand Bazaar. A common 'don't be a tourist' tip is to ignore overly friendly strangers who offer to take you to a 'special' carpet shop or bar, as these can be setups for inflated prices. For the best photos and a local vibe, head to the Karaköy district in Istanbul at sunset or find a rooftop terrace in Sultanahmet for a view of the Hagia Sophia. TICKETS.ME.UK suggests visiting the local neighborhood markets (pazar) that happen on specific days of the week; they offer a sensory explosion of colors and scents that you won't find in a supermarket. Always keep a digital copy of your passport and flight tickets for peace of mind.