The Ultimate Guide to Cheap Travel In Turkey

Turkey, a land of vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, It has been a magnet for travelers ever since one can remember. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean, whatever kind of traveler you are, Turkey certainly has something to offer. But what if your budget were to get a little tight? Is it possible to experience the best of Turkey without breaking the bank?
Well, let me tell you as a broke backpacker-the answer is definitely yes! With some careful planning, creativity, and flexibility, you can see the wonders of Turkey without breaking the bank. In this blog, I share my tips, tricks, and stories of backpacking Turkey on a broke budget. I will cover it all: finding affordable accommodation and food, public transportation, and the most affordable attractions.
If you are ready to experience the Turks, their cuisine, and the ancient ruins that pock their landscape-all without setting your wallet on fire-then join me on this journey through Turkey on a broke budget. Let’s get going!

How to get there:

From Greece:

  • Take a bus or train from Athens or Thessaloniki to the Greek-Turkish border at Kastanies or Evzoni.
  • Cross the border on foot and take a Turkish bus or taxi to Istanbul or other destinations.

From Bulgaria:

  • Take a bus or train from Sofia or Plovdiv to the Bulgarian-Turkish border at Edirne or Svilengrad.
  • Cross the border and take a Turkish bus or taxi to Istanbul or other destinations.

From Georgia:

  • Take a bus or marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi or Batumi to the Georgian-Turkish border at Sarp or Türkgözü.
  • Cross the border and take a Turkish bus or taxi to Trabzon or other destinations.

From Armenia:

  • Take a bus or marshrutka from Yerevan or Gyumri to the Armenian-Turkish border at Akhuryan or Margara.
  • Note: The border is currently closed due to political tensions, so check for updates before planning your trip.

From Iran:

  • Take a bus or train from Tehran or Tabriz to the Iranian-Turkish border at Bazargan or Gürbulak.
  • Cross the border and take a Turkish bus or taxi to Istanbul or other destinations.

When to go:

Spring (March to May)

  • Weather: Mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
  • Pros:
    • Fewer tourists, lower prices.
    • Beautiful blooming flowers and green landscapes.
    • Comfortable hiking weather.
  • Cons:
    • Some attractions and beaches might still be closed.
    • Occasional rain showers.

Summer (June to August)

  • Weather: Hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F) or higher.
  • Pros:
    • Warm weather perfect for beach-hopping and swimming.
    • Longer days, more daylight for exploring.
    • Festivals and events like Istanbul Music Festival and Izmir International Festival.
  • Cons:
    • Peak tourist season, higher prices.
    • Crowded attractions and beaches.
    • Heatwaves.

Autumn (September to November)

  • Weather: Comfortable temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).
  • Pros:
    • Fewer tourists, lower prices.
    • Beautiful fall foliage.
    • Ideal hiking weather.
  • Cons:
    • Some attractions might start closing for winter.
    • Rainfall increases.

Winter (December to February)

  • Weather: Cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F).
  • Pros:
    • Lowest prices, fewest tourists.
    • Skiing and snowboarding opportunities in Uludağ and Palandöken.
    • Cozy atmosphere, hot springs, and Turkish baths.
  • Cons:
    • Some attractions and beaches closed.
    • Cold weather, potential snowstorms.

Best Time for Broke Backpackers:

  • Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the best balance of weather, prices, and crowd levels.

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Istanbul (explore Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace)
  • Day 2: Istanbul (visit the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and take a ferry ride on the Bosphorus)
  • Day 3: Edirne (visit the Selimiye Mosque and historic city center)

1-Week Itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Istanbul (explore Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar)
  • Day 3-4: Pamukkale (visit the travertines and ancient city of Hierapolis)
  • Day 5: Selçuk (explore the ancient city of Ephesus)
  • Day 6-7: Antalya (visit the ancient city of Perge and relax on the beach)

2-Week Itinerary:

  • Day 1-3: Istanbul (explore Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar)
  • Day 4-5: Cappadocia (explore the fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings)
  • Day 6-7: Pamukkale (visit the travertines and ancient city of Hierapolis)
  • Day 8-9: Selçuk (explore the ancient city of Ephesus)
  • Day 10-11: Antalya (visit the ancient city of Perge and relax on the beach)
  • Day 12-14: Ölüdeniz (relax on the beach and take a boat tour)

1-Month Itinerary:

  • Week 1: Istanbul and Edirne (explore the city and historic sites)
  • Week 2: Cappadocia and Pamukkale (explore the fairy chimneys and travertines)
  • Week 3: Selçuk and Antalya (explore the ancient cities and relax on the beach)
  • Week 4: Ölüdeniz and Fethiye (relax on the beach and take a boat tour)

3-Month Itinerary:

  • Month 1: Istanbul, Edirne, and the Black Sea coast (explore the city, historic sites, and coastal towns)
  • Month 2: Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and the Mediterranean coast (explore the fairy chimneys, travertines, and ancient cities)
  • Month 3: Eastern Turkey (explore the ancient cities, mountains, and lakes)

1-Month Itinerary:

Week 1:

  • Day 1-3: Istanbul (explore Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar)
  • Day 4-5: Edirne (visit the Selimiye Mosque and historic city center)
  • Day 6-7: Gallipoli (visit the battlefields and memorials)

Week 2:

  • Day 8-10: Cappadocia (explore the fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, and take a hot air balloon ride)
  • Day 11-12: Pamukkale (visit the travertines and ancient city of Hierapolis)
  • Day 13-14: Selçuk (explore the ancient city of Ephesus)

Week 3:

  • Day 15-17: Antalya (visit the ancient city of Perge, relax on the beach, and take a boat tour)
  • Day 18-19: Ölüdeniz (relax on the beach and take a boat tour)
  • Day 20-21: Fethiye (explore the ancient city of Telmessos and take a boat tour)

Week 4:

  • Day 22-24: Marmaris (relax on the beach, take a boat tour, and explore the ancient city of Knidos)
  • Day 25-27: Izmir (explore the ancient city of Smyrna and visit the Kadifekale fortress)
  • Day 28-30: Bergama (explore the ancient city of Pergamon and visit the Asclepion)

3-Month Itinerary:

Month 1:

  • Week 1: Istanbul, Edirne, and Gallipoli (explore the city, historic sites, and battlefields)
  • Week 2: Cappadocia and Pamukkale (explore the fairy chimneys, travertines, and ancient cities)
  • Week 3: Selçuk and Antalya (explore the ancient cities and relax on the beach)
  • Week 4: Ölüdeniz and Fethiye (relax on the beach, take a boat tour, and explore the ancient city of Telmessos)

Month 2:

  • Week 5: Marmaris and Izmir (relax on the beach, take a boat tour, and explore the ancient cities)
  • Week 6: Bergama and Ayvalık (explore the ancient city of Pergamon, visit the Asclepion, and relax on the beach)
  • Week 7: Çanakkale and Troy (explore the ancient city of Troy and visit the Gallipoli battlefields)
  • Week 8: Bursa and İznik (explore the ancient city of Bursa, visit the mosques and thermal baths, and relax on the beach)

Month 3:

  • Week 9: Eastern Turkey (explore the ancient cities, mountains, and lakes)
  • Week 10: Kars and Ani (explore the ancient city of Ani and visit the Kars fortress)
  • Week 11: Erzurum and Trabzon (explore the ancient city of Trabzon, visit the Sumela Monastery, and relax on the beach)
  • Week 12: Return to Istanbul

Transportation:

Buses (Otobüs)

  • Extensive network covering most cities and towns
  • Comfortable and modern buses with air conditioning and Wi-Fi
  • Affordable fares (average ₺10-30, ~$2-5 USD)
  • Companies like Pamukkale, Metro, and FlixBus operate in Turkey

Trains (Tren)

  • Limited network, but convenient for longer distances
  • Comfortable seats and sleeper cars available
  • Fares vary depending on route and class (average ₺50-100, ~$10-20 USD)
  • Turkish State Railways (TCDD) operates the train network

Ferries (Feribot)

  • Connects coastal towns and islands
  • Scenic routes with stunning views
  • Fares vary depending on route and type of ferry (average ₺10-50, ~$2-10 USD)
  • Companies like IDO and BUDO operate ferry services

Dolmuş (Minivan)

  • Cheap and frequent service for shorter distances
  • Shared rides with locals and other travelers
  • Fares vary depending on route (average ₺5-10, ~$1-2 USD)
  • Dolmuşes operate in most cities and towns

Metro and Tram

  • Modern and efficient networks in larger cities like Istanbul and Ankara
  • Affordable fares (average ₺2-5, ~$0.50-1 USD)
  • Convenient for short distances and navigating city centers

Tips and Tricks

  • Always validate your ticket before boarding
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos during peak hours
  • Learn some basic Turkish phrases to communicate with drivers and locals
  • Download transportation apps like Moovit or Trafi for route planning and schedules

Top things to do:

Istanbul:

  • Explore Sultanahmet and Hagia Sophia
  • Visit the Grand Bazaar
  • Take a ferry ride on the Bosphorus
  • Walk along the city walls and explore the historic neighborhoods
  • Visit the Blue Mosque
  • Explore the Spice Bazaar
  • Visit the Topkapi Palace
  • Take a stroll through the Princes’ Islands
  • Visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museum
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Karaköy
  • Visit the Galata Tower

Cappadocia:

  • Explore the fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings
  • Take a hot air balloon ride
  • Visit the Göreme National Park
  • Explore the underground cities
  • Watch the sunset over the fairy chimneys
  • Hike through the valleys and villages
  • Visit the Derinkuyu Underground City
  • Explore the Ihlara Valley
  • Visit the Selime Monastery
  • Take a horseback ride through the countryside

Pamukkale:

  • Visit the travertines and ancient city of Hierapolis
  • Explore the ancient city of Aphrodisias
  • Take a dip in the hot springs
  • Watch the sunset over the travertines
  • Visit the ancient city of Laodicea
  • Explore the Pamukkale National Park
  • Visit the ancient city of Colossae
  • Take a hike through the Pamukkale countryside

Antalya:

  • Explore the ancient city of Perge
  • Visit the Düden Waterfalls
  • Relax on the beach
  • Take a boat tour of the coastline
  • Visit the ancient city of Aspendos
  • Explore the Antalya Old Town
  • Visit the Konyaaltı Beach
  • Take a hike in the Taurus Mountains
  • Visit the ancient city of Termessos

Eastern Turkey:

  • Explore the ancient city of Ani
  • Visit the Kars fortress
  • Take a hike in the mountains
  • Visit the Sumela Monastery
  • Explore the Trabzon Old Town
  • Visit the ancient city of Mardin
  • Take a boat tour of Lake Van
  • Visit the ancient city of Diyarbakır
  • Explore the Hasankeyf ruins

Black Sea Coast:

  • Explore the city of Trabzon and its historic harbor
  • Visit the Sumela Monastery
  • Take a hike in the Pontic Mountains
  • Relax on the beach in Rize
  • Visit the ancient city of Samsun
  • Explore the city of Sinop and its medieval walls

Mediterranean Coast:

  • Visit the ancient city of Patara
  • Explore the city of Demre and its church of St. Nicholas
  • Take a boat tour of the Kekova Islands
  • Relax on the beach in Ölüdeniz
  • Visit the ancient city of Myra
  • Explore the city of Antalya’s old town

Aegean Coast:

  • Visit the ancient city of Ephesus
  • Explore the city of Selçuk and its castle
  • Take a hike in the Dilek Peninsula National Park
  • Relax on the beach in Kuşadası
  • Visit the ancient city of Priene
  • Explore the city of Ayvalık and its historic harbor

Central Anatolia:

  • Visit the ancient city of Gordion
  • Explore the city of Ankara and its historic castle
  • Take a hike in the Phrygian Valley
  • Visit the ancient city of Konya
  • Explore the city of Eskişehir and its historic center
  • Visit the ancient city of Aksaray

Southeastern Anatolia:

  • Visit the ancient city of Gaziantep
  • Explore the city of Şanlıurfa and its historic center
  • Take a hike in the Mount Nemrut National Park
  • Visit the ancient city of Mardin
  • Explore the city of Diyarbakır and its historic walls
  • Visit the ancient city of Hasankeyf

Lake District:

  • Visit the ancient city of Sagalassos
  • Explore the city of Burdur and its historic center
  • Take a boat tour of Lake Burdur
  • Relax on the beach in Lake Köyceğiz
  • Visit the ancient city of Tlos
  • Explore the city of Fethiye and its historic harbor

Thrace:

  • Visit the ancient city of Edirne
  • Explore the city of Istanbul’s European side
  • Take a hike in the Strandzha Mountains
  • Visit the ancient city of Kırklareli
  • Explore the city of Tekirdağ and its historic harbor
  • Visit the ancient city of Çorlu

Northeastern Anatolia:

  • Visit the ancient city of Kars
  • Explore the city of Ardahan and its historic center
  • Take a hike in the Kaçkar Mountains
  • Visit the ancient city of Artvin
  • Explore the city of Rize and its historic harbor
  • Visit the ancient city of Trabzon

Food:

Turkish cuisine is but the culmination of the country’s rich cultural heritage, having been influenced by Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean. From spicy kebabs to sweet pastries, the breadth of Turkey’s international food scene simply delights the senses and leaves you wanting more.

Popular Dishes

  • Doner Kebab: A classic Turkish dish made from layers of lamb or beef stacked on a vertical spit and served in a crispy sesame-topped bun.
  • Lahmacun: A thin crust topped with minced meat, onions, and spices, served with lemon juice and herbs.
  • Manti: Steamed dumplings filled with meat and spices, served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
  • Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo, nuts, and honey.
  • Turkish Delight: A traditional dessert made from sugar, cornstarch, and fruit juice, often flavored with rosewater or lemon.

Ingredients

  • Meat: Lamb, beef, and chicken are staples in Turkish cuisine, often cooked on a grill or in a stew.
  • Spices: Cumin, paprika, and sumac add depth and warmth to Turkish dishes.
  • Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, and mint are used to add freshness and flavor.
  • Grains: Rice, bulgur, and bread are essential components of Turkish meals.
  • Dairy: Yogurt and cheese are used in a variety of dishes, from sauces to desserts.

Regional Specialties

  • Istanbul: Known for its seafood, Istanbul offers fresh fish and shellfish dishes like grilled octopus and fried calamari.
  • Anatolia: The heartland of Turkey, Anatolia is famous for its kebabs, stews, and desserts like baklava and Turkish delight.
  • Aegean: The Aegean region is known for its fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs, often used in dishes like stuffed bell peppers and eggplant.

Street Food

  • Simit: A crispy sesame-topped bread ring, often enjoyed with cheese or jam.
  • Kokoreç: A spicy sausage made from lamb intestines, often served with bread and onions.
  • Midye: Stuffed mussels filled with rice, herbs, and spices.

Tips and Tricks

  • Eat at local markets: Try traditional dishes and fresh produce at local markets like Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar.
  • Visit a Turkish bath: Many Turkish baths offer traditional meals and refreshments.
  • Learn some Turkish phrases: Show respect for the culture by learning basic phrases like “merhaba” (hello) and “teşekkür” (thank you).

Culture:

Turkey is a nation with diverse cultural elements amassed over more than 10,000 years. Situated at the juncture of Europe and Asia, the earliest civilizations of Mesopotamia, together with the modern-day Republic of Turkey, have shared a peculiar blend of Eastern and Western influences.

History and Heritage

  • Ancient Civilizations: Turkey is home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, including the Hittites, Lydians, and Phrygians.
  • Ottoman Empire: The Ottoman Empire, which ruled from the 13th to the 20th century, left a lasting legacy in Turkish culture, architecture, and cuisine.
  • Islamic Heritage: Islam has played a significant role in shaping Turkish culture, with many mosques, madrasas, and other Islamic monuments throughout the country.

Art and Architecture

  • Mosques: Turkey is famous for its stunning mosques, such as the Blue Mosque and Süleymaniye Mosque, which showcase Ottoman architecture.
  • Palaces: Topkapi Palace and Dolmabahçe Palace are two of the most famous palaces in Turkey, showcasing Ottoman opulence.
  • Textiles: Turkish textiles, such as carpets, rugs, and kilims, are renowned for their intricate designs and colors.

Music and Dance

  • Whirling Dervishes: The Whirling Dervishes, a mystical Sufi order, perform a unique dance that symbolizes spiritual devotion.
  • Turkish Folk Music: Turkish folk music, known as “Türkü”, is characterized by lively rhythms and soulful melodies.
  • Belly Dance: Belly dance, also known as “Oryantal”, is a popular form of dance in Turkey.

Cuisine

  • Kebabs: Turkey is famous for its delicious kebabs, made from lamb, beef, or chicken.
  • Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo, nuts, and honey.
  • Turkish Delight: A traditional dessert made from sugar, cornstarch, and fruit juice.

Festivals and Celebrations

  • Eid al-Fitr: A significant Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan.
  • Nowruz: A spring festival celebrated by many cultures in Turkey.
  • Istanbul Festival: A cultural festival that showcases music, dance, and theater performances.

Social Etiquette

  • Hospitality: Turks are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature.
  • Respect: Showing respect for elders, traditions, and customs is important in Turkish culture.
  • Communication: Direct communication and physical touch are common in Turkish culture.

Accommodations:

Turkey has a wide range of hostels to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Here are some of the most common types of hostels you’ll find:

  • Dormitory Hostels: These are the most common type of hostel in Turkey, offering shared rooms with bunk beds and shared facilities.
  • Private Room Hostels: For those who want a bit more privacy, private room hostels offer single or double rooms with shared or en-suite facilities.
  • Boutique Hostels: These hostels offer a more luxurious experience, with stylish decor, comfortable beds, and often, en-suite facilities.
  • Party Hostels: For travelers who want to experience Turkey’s vibrant nightlife, party hostels offer a lively atmosphere, with bars, clubs, and organized events.
  • Family-Run Hostels: These hostels are run by local families, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, often with home-cooked meals and traditional Turkish hospitality.

Prices

Hostel prices in Turkey vary depending on the location, type of hostel, and time of year. Here are some approximate prices:

  • Dormitory Hostels: ₺20-₺50 (~$3-8 USD) per night
  • Private Room Hostels: ₺50-₺100 (~$8-15 USD) per night
  • Boutique Hostels: ₺100-₺200 (~$15-30 USD) per night
  • Party Hostels: ₺30-₺70 (~$5-12 USD) per night
  • Family-Run Hostels: ₺20-₺50 (~$3-8 USD) per night

Atmosphere

Turkish hostels are known for their warm and welcoming atmosphere, with many offering:

  • Communal areas: Shared spaces where travelers can relax, socialize, and meet new people.
  • Organized events: Many hostels organize events, such as traditional Turkish nights, BBQs, and sightseeing tours.
  • Home-cooked meals: Some hostels offer home-cooked meals, giving travelers a taste of traditional Turkish cuisine.

Party Hostels

For travelers who want to experience Turkey’s vibrant nightlife, party hostels are a great option. Some popular party hostels in Turkey include:

  • Istanbul: Retropub, The Pera Palace Hotel, and The Hostel
  • Antalya: Olympos Hostel and Sabah Pension
  • Cappadocia: Cave Hostel and Traveler’s Cave Pension

Relaxed Hostels

For travelers who want a more relaxed atmosphere, there are many hostels that offer a peaceful and quiet environment. Some popular relaxed hostels in Turkey include:

  • Istanbul: Simla Hotel and Sultan Hostel
  • Antalya: Kaleiçi Hostel and Hadrian’s Gate Hotel
  • Cappadocia: Göreme Inn Hotel and Cappadocia Cave Suites

Backpacking Turkey costs:

Daily Budget Breakdown for Broke Backpacking in Turkey

  • Accommodation: ₺20-₺30 (~$3-5 USD) per night (dormitory hostel)
  • Food: ₺30-₺50 (~$5-8 USD) per day (street food, markets, and cheap restaurants)
  • Transportation: ₺10-₺20 (~$2-3 USD) per day (public transportation, walking)
  • Attractions: ₺20-₺30 (~$3-5 USD) per day (free walking tours, cheap museums, and historical sites)
  • Miscellaneous: ₺10-₺20 (~$2-3 USD) per day (souvenirs, snacks, and unexpected expenses)

Total daily budget: ₺90-₺150 (~$15-25 USD)

Weekly Budget Breakdown for Broke Backpacking in Turkey

  • Accommodation: ₺140-₺210 (~$23-35 USD) per week (dormitory hostel)
  • Food: ₺210-₺350 (~$35-58 USD) per week (street food, markets, and cheap restaurants)
  • Transportation: ₺70-₺140 (~$12-23 USD) per week (public transportation, walking)
  • Attractions: ₺140-₺210 (~$23-35 USD) per week (free walking tours, cheap museums, and historical sites)
  • Miscellaneous: ₺70-₺140 (~$12-23 USD) per week (souvenirs, snacks, and unexpected expenses)

Total weekly budget: ₺630-₺950 (~$105-158 USD)

Backpacking in Turkey can be one of those journeys that are going to blend self-discovery with great adventure and bonding. From dynamic street life in Istanbul to the ruins of Ephesus, from beaches in Ölüdeniz to mountain scenery in Eastern Turkey, this country has something to offer for any type of traveler.
With the spirit of a broke backpacker, you surely will save money but at the same time be engulfed in the culture, make friends with other travelers, and thus keep memories that last for eternity. Because of its enriched history, breathtaking landscapes, and people well-renowned for their warmth in hospitality, Turkey can be described as the ultimate destination to look for in a travel experience that is far more genuine and rather affordable.
So pack your bag, get your rucksack out, and ready yourself for an epic adventure that awaits you in Turkey! With these tips, tricks, and insights, well on your way to exploring this incredible country on a broke budget.