Money

One of the easiest things about traveling to Turkey is electricity. The country uses the same plug types as most of Europe, so if you’re coming from places like the Netherlands, Germany, or France, you won’t need an adapter at all. I could charge my phone and camera everywhere without thinking twice. Power cuts were rare and Wi-Fi was available in most accommodations, cafés, and even long-distance buses. If you rely heavily on your phone for navigation or work, it’s still handy to bring a power bank, but overall plugs and electricity are stress-free here. 

Plugs

The local currency is the Turkish lira, and cash is still widely used, especially in markets, small shops, and local restaurants. In bigger cities and tourist areas, paying by card is very common, and I rarely ran into places that didn’t accept it. ATMs are everywhere and withdrawing cash was easy, though it’s worth checking your bank’s foreign withdrawal fees. Prices can change quickly due to inflation, so sometimes menus are handwritten or updated often. As long as you keep a bit of cash on you and stay aware of exchange rates, handling money in Turkey is simple and hassle-free. 

Safety

I have felt very safe in Turkey! People are friendly and helpfull. If you ask for directions you will get them, even without giving a tip. Waking alone, even at night is no issue and I haven’t been worried about being robbed. Now, as a solo female traveler, you do get invited for tea or diner a LOT of times. Some platonic, because they are interested in you and your country but most of the men definitely want a date. Now I never felt unsafe saying no, but is is something I want to give a heads up about to my fellow girlies (and maybe guys aswell, I don’t know how it would be for you)

Istanbul
Sanat Hostel Taksim

A nice hostel in the middle of a bustling nightlife area. The rooms where clean, breakfast is included and there is a rooftop terrace! Downside is that you sleep right above a nightclub, so the music is very loud in your dorm room. 

Kuşadası
Ali's Hotel
 
Comfortable private rooms with a small balcony for around €30 a night for one person. Clean, well-kept, and located close to the center, with markets, restaurants, and the beach all within walking distance.

Göreme

Panorama Camping

 A chill campground right in the valley, with a shared kitchen and a small pool. In the morning you just step outside and watch the hot air balloons float past your tent while you’re still holding your coffee.

Bus

I only took two flights during my time in Turkey: one to get into the country and one to leave. All the traveling in between was done by long-distance buses, which turned out to be incredibly easy and comfortable. You can simply show up at the bus station or book your ticket online through platforms like FlixBus and travel pretty much anywhere in the country. Prices are very affordable, usually ranging from €10 to €30 depending on the distance. 

Boat
 

In Istanbul, I mostly got around by ferry. Traveling by boat is an easy and enjoyable way to move between the European and Asian sides of the city, and it comes with stunning views of the skyline along the way. Besides being practical for daily transport, ferries are also a great option for visiting the Princes’ Islands just outside the city, making them both a scenic and useful way to get around. 

Citybus or Minivan

Public transport in Turkey is very well organized. During my entire trip, I only needed to take a taxi once, late at night to get to the bus station. The rest of the time, I fully relied on public transport. With fares ranging between €0.50 and €2, it was definitely worth putting in a bit of effort to find the right bus or tram. Bus stops aren’t always clearly marked, so chatting with locals and asking around is often the best way. It’s not only a great way to save money, but also an easy way to connect with people along the way.