Turkey is a transcontinental country, straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia, with cultural connections to ancient Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Its vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and unique blend of traditions make it a fantastic travel destination.
How to reach:
Direct Flights
Airlines: Turkish Airlines operates direct flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi to Istanbul Airport (IST) in Istanbul.
Flight Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours.
Connecting Flights
You can also opt for connecting flights with one or more layovers. Common layover cities include Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and various European cities.
Popular Airlines for Connecting Flights:
- Qatar Airways: Via Doha (DOH)
- Emirates: Via Dubai (DXB)
- Etihad Airways: Via Abu Dhabi (AUH)
- Lufthansa: Via Frankfurt (FRA)
- Air India: Various connections
Booking Your Flight
You can book flights through airline websites, travel agencies, or online travel booking platforms like Expedia, Kayak, or Skyscanner. Comparing prices across different platforms can help you find the best deal.
Arrival in Turkey
Main International Airports:
- Istanbul Airport (IST): The largest and busiest airport in Turkey.
- Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW): Located on the Asian side of Istanbul.
- Antalya Airport (AYT): Popular for those heading directly to the Mediterranean coast.
- Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB): For those flying to the capital city.
- Transportation from the Airport
- Istanbul: You can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or the metro from Istanbul Airport to the city center. The metro line M11 connects the airport to the city.
- Antalya and Ankara: Taxis, shuttles, and buses are available for airport transfers.
Travel Tips:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY).
- Language: Turkish, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Cuisine: Don't miss trying kebabs, mezes, baklava, and Turkish tea and coffee.
Best time to visit from New Delhi:
Spring (April to June)
- Weather: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- Pros: Blooming flowers, lush landscapes, fewer crowds compared to summer.
- Highlights: Ideal for sightseeing in cities like Istanbul, Ephesus, and Cappadocia, as well as enjoying the natural beauty of places like Pamukkale and the Aegean coast.
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Warm and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- Pros: Cooler temperatures after the summer heat, harvest season for fresh fruits and vegetables, fewer tourists.
- Highlights: Great for exploring historical sites, hiking in Cappadocia, and enjoying the coastal regions.
Summer (July to August)
- Weather: Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), especially in inland areas.
- Pros: Best time for beach holidays along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
- Cons: Crowded tourist spots, higher prices, and very hot weather in cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cold and wet, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) in most places, and snowfall in some regions like Cappadocia and the eastern parts of Turkey.
- Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices, and the opportunity to experience Turkey's winter activities like skiing.
- Cons: Some tourist attractions may have shorter hours or be closed, and outdoor activities can be limited by the weather.
Recommended Travel Period
- Best Overall: April to June and September to November.
- For Beach Lovers: Late May to early September.
- For Skiing and Winter Sports: December to February.