An eclectic mix of old and new, Turkey really is where east meets west. Combining strong Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and central Asian influences, this country is not only warm and welcoming but has plenty to do for families, backpackers and couples alike. Ornate mosques stand next to Christian churches and Roman theatres, whilst awe-inspiring ruins and ancient architecture are never far away. These all sit effortlessly amongst the high rise hotels, eateries and modern shopping malls, so there’s certainly plenty to keep you entertained.

A huge part of Turkey’s popularity with tourists is due to its phenomenal archaeological sites. From stunning ancient cities to hilltop fortresses and ramshackle places of worship it’s a sight for sore eyes. Don’t forget to sample some delicious Turkish cuisine whilst you’re there too, like Çoban kavurma, sweet baklava and fresh shish lamb kebabs.

Head to any of the big bustling cities (particularly the capital Ankara and the second city, Istanbul) and you’ll find all sorts of Islamic monuments, markets, city bazaars and shopping opportunities. Or if sun, sea and sand are more your thing, the beaches of the southern coast are often unspoilt and beautiful, particularly around Antalya, Bodrum and Dalaman. Whatever you choose to do on your trip to Turkey, it’s somewhere you’ll want to come back to time and again.

5 Things You Need to Know About Turkey

Here are five things you may not have known about Turkey, which you’ll want to make note of before packing your bags:

Time Difference: UTC +10 hours
Currency: Turkish lira
Native Language: Turkish
Weather: Rainfall is low and there is more snow in the winter. The average temperature is about 23°C in summer and -2°C in winter. The climate in the Black Sea region is wet, warm and humid, with summer temperatures about 23°C, 7°C in the winter.
Sales Tax: 18%

Flying to Turkey from Australia

Here’s everything you’ll need to know about flying to Turkey from Australia, including flight times and entry requirements.

Flight Times

Flights from Australia to Turkey generally take around fifteen hours. You can fly direct from Sydney, Perth and Alice Springs.

Entry Requirements

Australians travelling to Turkey as a tourist or for business should apply for a visa online at www.evisa.gov.tr. All other visa types should be requested through your nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate. You will need a full, valid Australian passport.

Airlines That Fly to Turkey

The following airlines offer one-stop flights from Australia to Turkey:

- Turkish Airlines
- Qantas
- Pegasus Airlines

10 Turkey Must-Dos

If you’ve never visited Turkey before and are wondering what the ‘must-see’ sights and attractions are, here are our top ten:

- Sultanahmet District, Istanbul
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Hagia Sophia Museum / Church (Ayasofya)
- Bosphorus Strait
- Blue Mosque
- Celsus Kutuphanesi
- Ancient City of Ephesus
- Goreme National Park
- Gallipoli Battlefield
- Babadag, Oludeniz

Book Cheap Flights to Turkey with Globehunters

Fancy working your way round this amazing country? If you’re searching for your next exciting trip to Turkey, then look no further than Globehunters. You’ll find the best deals on flights, hotels and car hire with us, and every booking is protected by ATOL and IATA for extra peace of mind.