Turkey is the most booked leisure destination for Pakistani travellers, and for first-timers heading to Europe it is close to ideal: familiar food, universal halal, widespread goodwill towards Pakistani visitors, and enough variety to fill a week or three.
Where to go
Istanbul — four to five nights
The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern and the Grand Bazaar are all within walking distance of each other on the historic peninsula. The Bosphorus cruise is worth doing properly rather than as a rushed hour. Cross to the Asian side at Üsküdar for a different and much quieter feel.
Cappadocia — two to three nights
The fairy chimneys, the cave hotels and the hot air balloons at sunrise. Balloon flights are weather-dependent and cancel without warning, so build a spare morning into your schedule rather than booking for your only available day.
Bursa — one to two nights
The first Ottoman capital, with the Grand Mosque, the silk market and the cable car up Uludağ. It works well as a day trip or an overnight from Istanbul, and it is the place to go if you want snow.
Antalya and the coast — three nights or more
The beach portion, with resort hotels and the ancient sites at Side and Perge nearby. Worth adding if you have nine nights or more; skip it on a shorter trip.
Suggested itineraries
- 5 nights: Istanbul only, done properly.
- 7 nights: Istanbul (4) and Cappadocia (3).
- 9 nights: Istanbul (4), Cappadocia (2), Bursa (1), Antalya (2).
- 10 nights: Turkey and Azerbaijan combined.
Best time to visit
April to June and September to November offer the best combination of weather and crowds. July and August are hot and busy, with the coast at its peak. December to March is cold in Istanbul and Cappadocia but offers the lowest prices and the option of skiing at Uludağ. Cappadocia in snow is genuinely spectacular.
Getting around
Istanbul's tram and metro network is efficient and inexpensive — get an Istanbulkart on arrival. Domestic flights between Istanbul, Cappadocia and Antalya are cheap and quick, and far preferable to the long overnight coach journeys. Istanbul Airport is a considerable distance from the centre, so pre-book your transfer.
Money and costs
The Turkish lira has been volatile, which makes published cost guidance unreliable. Carry a card and some cash, exchange in the city rather than at the airport, and expect prices at tourist sites to be materially higher than in ordinary neighbourhoods.
Bargaining is expected at the Grand Bazaar and in tourist shops, and not appropriate in ordinary retail or restaurants.
Halal food and prayer
Not an issue anywhere. Turkey is Muslim-majority, halal is the default, and mosques are everywhere. Alcohol is served in some restaurants — if you prefer alcohol-free establishments, they are easy to find and we can note the preference in your booking.
Visa
Pakistani passport holders require a visa for Turkey. Eligibility for the electronic visa depends on conditions including holding a valid visa or residence permit from certain countries; those who do not qualify apply through the consulate. Beware of unofficial websites charging inflated fees. See our Turkey visa page.
Practical notes
- Mosques require modest dress; headscarves are provided for women at the major ones.
- Remove shoes before entering a mosque — carry a bag for them.
- Many traders in the Grand Bazaar speak some Urdu, and will use it.
- Tap water is not generally drunk; bottled water is cheap.
- Tipping of around ten per cent is customary in restaurants.
See our Turkey tour packages for itineraries with flights, hotels and guided tours included.
Need help with your travel plans?
Our consultants can answer your questions and arrange the whole trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Five nights covers Istanbul properly. Seven lets you add Cappadocia. Nine or more allows Bursa or the coast as well.
Less than western Europe, more than Southeast Asia. Costs vary sharply between tourist areas and ordinary neighbourhoods, and currency volatility makes fixed guidance unreliable.
Yes. Pakistani passport holders require a visa, obtained through the consulate or, where the specific eligibility conditions are met, electronically.
