9 Budget-Friendly Tips for Planning a Trip to Turkey

Needless to say, Turkey and its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant history have been on many people’s bucket lists, starting from dreaming to actually going. You’re not alone! Istanbul and Cappadocia’s fairy tale chimneys, quiet Mediterranean beaches, and more are a treasure trove of experiences in Turkey. The bright side is that Turkey is more than affordable with a bit of smart planning, and so many are planning a trip to Turkey. Regardless if you are traveling on your own, as a couple, or as a family, you will be able to see and do as much as Turkey has to offer for your budget.

At the risk of sounding disrespectful, you need not worry if you’re on a tight budget and planning to visit Turkey. A budget trip to Turkey is certainly possible with the right tips and tricks. This guide works its way from finding cheap flight fares to tasting the country’s famous cuisine as cheaply as possible. Well, prepare your Turkey travel planner, and I will take you through nine budget tips to have a memorable and budget-friendly sojourn in Turkey. Also, don’t forget to check Turkey Visa requirements before you go as it is an easy process and necessary for your journey!

Here are the 9 Budget-Friendly Tips for Planning a Trip to Turkey

1. Early Book of Flights for Better Deals

One of the most effective ways of saving some money when planning your trip to Turkey is to book your flights in advance. Of course, airfares fluctuate widely, so locking in a ticket beforehand means that you are locking in a lower price. On the whole, flights are cheaper on midweek days such as Tuesdays or Wednesdays, and flying off peak seasons (spring and fall) will also help you find cheaper flights. Make use of travel search engines and get price alerts to track the variations and catch the best deals. If you are willing to be flexible with your dates, the odds are much higher, you can get a great deal!

2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Visiting Turkey during one of its peak tourist seasons can be expensive. A trip may be of more affordable price during the off-peak or shoulder season, for instance, late spring (April–May) or early fall (Sept–Nov). These times still offer pleasant weather, and if the crowds aren’t at the thinner end of peak season, then you can wander around without the crowds you generally find in peak season. Besides, you will be able to experience the local culture in a more relaxed atmosphere and save on travel expenses.

3. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodations

However, a significant portion of your budget can be taken up in accommodation, however, in Turkey you can find affordable options. Hostels, guesthouses, and budget boutique hotels are a good option if you prefer to stay in a place that is comfortable and affordable compared to staying in expensive resorts. On the other hand, Airbnb has a variety of affordable apartments or rooms to live like a local. If you are feeling a little adventurous, then camping along Turkey’s beautiful coastal regions, such as in Oludeniz or Antalya, can offer some amazing views and the countryside at a low cost.

4. Use Public Transportation

Turkey’s public transportation is not only extensive but also very cheap. Istanbul has a very well-connected system of trams, metro lines and buses, so it’s easy to get around without having a rental car or taxis. If you are traveling long distances, then intercity buses are a really budget-friendly way of traveling between cities, being comfortable and cost-effective. Cities like Istanbul can be seen through extensive ferry systems at low cost and provide an excellent scenic alternative to traveling. The use of public transportation ensures that you do not spend over your budget and still get to enjoy the beauty of the country.

5. Eat Like a Local

There is no doubt that Turkish cuisine is famous worldwide, and one of the best things about visiting the country is trying its mouthwatering food. Eating Turkish like a local is one of the ways to enjoy Turkish dishes without spending much. Stay away from touristy restaurants and hop to local markets or ‘lokantas’ where you can have a hearty, home-cooked meal for a fraction of the price. Turkey’s street food is both delicious and cheap. Visit the place to taste a classic food doner kebab, simit (Turkish bagels), or gözleme (savory stuffed flatbreads), which will satiate your stomach and will not damage your wallet.

6. Explore Free and Low-Cost Attractions

There are plenty of cultural and historical attractions in Turkey that are free or have very low entrance fees. One aspect is the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Istanbul being free whether you want to enter or not, giving you a chance to dive into the history and wonder of it all without parting with any cash. Of course, the country has many ancient ruins, including Ephesus, where you can admire the ruins of an ancient civilization. Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts have also got some beautiful beaches along them, which are free to visit and provide the perfect opportunity for relaxation without the cost.

7. Take Advantage of Discounts and Passes

Discount passes are available in many cities in Turkey and can save you money on entry fees to the main tourist attractions. For example, in Istanbul, you can buy a museum pass that gives you free admissions to a number of popular sites, as they are cheaper if you buy a pass than pay individually at the respective sites. Most of these passes include museums, historical sites, and even public transportation. Additionally, if you’re a student or senior, you would be entitled to additional discounts, so always carry your ID. With careful planning and these passes, you can see Turkey’s treasures for a budget.

8. Shop Smart at Local Markets

Shopping in Turkey can be fun, and with the country’s famous bazaars, such as the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, it can be a very exciting experience. Nevertheless, do not get tempted into purchasing overpriced souvenirs from tourist shops. They also sell lower-priced fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique souvenirs at the local market, or what used to be known as ‘pazar’ but now it has a wider range of offerings. Haggle for the best deal, as this is a common practice. These local markets are perfect for shopping if you are looking for textiles, jewelry, or pottery. You will have a chance to buy authentic souvenirs and not overspend.

9. Prepare for Your Visa in Advance

Before leaving for Turkey, you should have arranged to get your visa. The visa on arrival is available for many travelers, including those from India, and is both affordable and easy to apply for, as it can be done online through the e-Visa system. The process is quick but to ensure there are no hiccups at the end, make sure to apply well in advance. The price of the visa is not high and it is a very important step before your trip to Turkey. It is always better to check visa requirements before you leave since, during the peak times, there might be some delays on simply enjoying your vacation.

Conclusion:

A trip to Turkey doesn’t have to be an expensive thing, so we do not see why you would shy away from a visit to one of the most beautiful countries in the world. By simply following these tips, using budget-friendly things, you can enjoy Turkey with its rich culture, phenomenal landscape, and amazing cuisine on a budget. Some of the ways to stretch your travel budget include early booking of flights, traveling during non-peak season and using public transportation, and more. The reason why Turkey is a top destination for budget travelers is because of its historical charm and affordability. If you are planning your trip from India, then you must go through the Turkey visa for Indians to make your trip smooth and hassle-free.

Having an idea of accommodation, eating like a local, and taking advantage of discounts, your trip to Turkey can be both fun and budget-friendly. Do not forget to prepare your visa in advance to begin your trip smoothly. If you are going to visit Istanbul’s ancient sites and relax on the beaches of Antalya, a budget Turkey trip is definitely possible if you just prepare a little and make smart choices.

Top Searched Destinations:

Recommended Destinations:

China Tour Package | Uzbekistan Tour Package | Egypt Tour Package | Europe Tour Package | Paris Tour Package | Bhutan Tour Package | Kazakhstan Tour Package | Armenia Tour Package | Hongkong Tour Package | Kenya Tour Package | Tanzania Tour Package

Domestic Tour Package:

Meghalaya Tour Package | Rajasthan Tour Package | Hyderabad Tour Package | Golden Triangle Tour India | Darjeeling Tour Package