turkey trip on a budget

Travel Planning Guide

Turkey Travel Budget - Visit Turkey on a Budget or Travel in Style

Turkey Costs

Turkey On-Your-Own Itineraries
Turkey Hotel Prices
Turkey Cities: Hotel Prices by City
Best Cheap Hotels in Turkey
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Turkey
Best Party Hotels in Turkey
Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Turkey
Best Adults Only Hotels in Turkey
Best Hotels for One Night in Turkey
Hostel Prices & Reviews
Turkey Tour Prices
The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Turkey
The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Turkey
The Best Historical Tours in Turkey
The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey
The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey
The Best 3-Day Tours in Turkey
The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey
The Best 3-Week Tours in Turkey
Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey
The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Turkey
The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey
The Best Coach Bus Tours in Turkey
The Best Adventure Tours to Turkey
The Best Eco Tours in Turkey
The Best Art History, Museums, and Cultural Tours Tours in Turkey
The Best Sightseeing Tours in Turkey
The Best Cultural Tours in Turkey
The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey
The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Turkey
The Best Religious Tours in Turkey
The Best Walking Tours in Turkey
The Best Tours Under $1000 in Turkey
The Best Luxury Tours to Turkey
The Best Budget Tours to Turkey
The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey
The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey
How much does it cost to travel to Turkey? (Average Daily Cost)
Turkey trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in Turkey?

Is turkey expensive to visit.

How much do I need for a trip to Turkey?
Cost of Accommodation
Cost of Transportation
Cost of Food
Cost of Sightseeing & Entertainment
Cost of Alcohol & Nightlife
Budgeting Tips & Challenges
Travel Guide

Turkey is a diverse destination famed for the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and Hadrian's Gate in Antalya, and this travel cost guide will help you plan the perfect trip without overspending. We've broken down average costs from past travelers, including where to stay, what to eat, and what to see, so that your trip is both affordable and unforgettable.

How much does it cost to travel to Turkey?

You should plan to spend around $144 (TRY4,950) per day on your vacation in Turkey. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

$51 (TRY1,767) on meals
$44 (TRY1,526) on local transportation
$101 (TRY3,456) on hotels

A one week trip to Turkey for two people costs, on average, $2,018 (TRY69,300) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 144 TRY 4,950
One Week Per person $ 1,009 TRY 34,650
2 Weeks Per person $ 2,018 TRY 69,300
One Month Per person $ 4,324 TRY 148,500
One Week For a couple $ 2,018 TRY 69,300
2 Weeks For a couple $ 4,036 TRY 138,600
One Month For a couple $ 8,649 TRY 297,000

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Turkey cost?

A one week trip to Turkey usually costs around $1,009 (TRY34,650) for one person and $2,018 (TRY69,300) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Turkey on average costs around $2,018 (TRY69,300) for one person and $4,036 (TRY138,600) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Turkey will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Turkey on average costs around $4,324 (TRY148,500) for one person and $8,649 (TRY297,000) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Turkey is $221 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

Flying Carpet Tour 15 Days - 18 Destinations $ 2,974
Wonders of Turkey (Small Groups, Summer, Base, 11 Days) 11 Days - 13 Destinations $ 3,450

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Turkey is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Turkey is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Cyprus or Latvia.

Whether you're looking for luxury or traveling on a budget, Turkey has an array of accommodation and activities to suit your needs. For those on a budget, hostels in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya are available, but there are also luxury hotels for affluent visitors, and plenty of mid-range hotels for families and couples.

If you're worried about costs in Turkey, there are ways to cut back, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.

On average, budget travelers spend $58 (TRY1,985) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $144 (TRY4,950) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $353 (TRY12,085) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Turkey.

For more details, see Is Turkey Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Turkey?

The average Turkey trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Turkey travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Turkey cost?

Turkey on a Budget

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations about your travel budget is very important. While it's easy to think of yourself as a "budget" traveler who can see everything on a shoestring, most find this style of travel quite challenging. Think about what you truly enjoy and your previous travel experiences. Are you drawn to resorts and vacation rentals, or do you like the budget-friendly environment of hostels? How important is it for you to eat in nicer restaurants? The answers to these questions will influence your overall travel budget.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You may have heard that it's possible to visit Turkey for around $58 a day, but if you want to maintain any level of comfort, you should be ready to spend considerably more.

While budget travelers might manage to travel on that amount, it often means staying in hostel dormitories, eating at budget restaurants or fast food joints, using public transport or walking, and sticking to free attractions.

Fortunately, Turkey has an abundance of hostels, particularly in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. While food is a big draw for everyone visiting Turkey, budget travelers often rely on street food or cooking in their hostels, so they may not get to fully experience the local cuisine due to their budget.

Are You Considered an Average Traveler?

For couples or families traveling for fun, it's common to stay in mid-range hotels, dine at well-known restaurants, and visit the big museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors are not going to want to miss the top sights and attractions. As most activities are not free, you'll be spending at least some money on your trip. Given this, a more realistic daily budget would be around $144 per person, per day.

In Turkey, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Istanbul and Antalya offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are White House Hotel Istanbul in Istanbul or Masal Tatilevi in Selimiye. If you're seeking romance in Kayseri, Mirada del Lago is an ideal place for couples to stay. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for Turkey here .

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're seeking a deluxe vacation that includes premium service and amenities, expect to pay around $353. This budget will cover luxurious hotels, award-winning dining, extravagant tours, and private transportation, landing you in the "luxury" travel range. You might even find yourself vacationing in high-end spots like Cappadocia and Pamukkale. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as 8 Days, Eastern Turkey Private Tour From Istanbul - offered by My Turkey Adventures.

Accommodation Budget in Turkey

The range of hotel prices in Turkey can be quite surprising, especially when you compare budget-friendly and luxury hotels. Peak season brings much higher prices, so consider traveling in the off-season for a more affordable experience. Booking in advance can also help with savings.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Turkey for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $101 (TRY3,456). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $50 (TRY1,728) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 50 TRY 1,728
Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 101 TRY 3,456

Hotels in Turkey

Looking for a hotel in Turkey? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Actual Hotel Prices in Turkey

The average hotel room price in Turkey based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $65 in the low season and $121 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Istanbul As one of the top tourist destinations, Istanbul offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $30 in the low season to $166 during the busy peak season. With many travelers lingering for up to seven days, you should prioritize finding a comfortable stay in a favorable location if you plan to explore the area. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Stories Hotel Kumbaraci for $46 and Romance Istanbul Hotel Boutique Class starting at $79. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $13 for a dorm bed.

Antalya In Antalya, which is a vacation spot, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $24 in the low season to $196 during the peak season. Eski Masal Hotel - Adult Only +11 ($69) is one of the best hotel options here, and Delight Deluxe Boutique Hotel is also good, and starts at $56. You can expect to pay around $12 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. As many travelers typically stay for up to five days, ensure you find a cozy place in a good spot if you intend to explore for a while.

Recommended Properties

Mego Suite Otel Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 183
Polanin Hotel Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 44

Local Transportation Budget in Turkey

On average, past travelers have spent $44 (TRY1,526) per person, per day, on local transportation in Turkey. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Turkey is significantly more than public transportation.

Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 44 TRY 1,526

Local Transportation Tips

In Turkey, the train system is excellent, allowing you to connect to nearly all regions of the country. The ticket prices are reasonable, and the rides are both comfortable and swift. If trains don't reach your destination, regional and long-distance buses can help.

If you're in Turkey, you'll find that public transportation in many destinations is quite limited unless you're visiting cities such as Istanbul. It's probably a good idea to rent a car or organize some form of transportation ahead of time, like a tour. However, this could reduce your overall trip budget.

If you're considering a visit to the countryside, you'll want to rent a car . Note that in Europe, most cars feature a manual transmission , and if you prefer an automatic, you might have to pay a premium. It's important to book ahead of time, as the lower-priced rentals tend to go quickly.

It's much easier to avoid driving in the larger cities like Istanbul because they are busy and crowded. Parking is often expensive and traffic is challenging. You can save money by not renting a car while visiting the cities, and instead use public transit or walking.

If you're bringing a car to a larger city, be sure to inquire about parking at your hotel beforehand. You may need to pay for parking either at the hotel or at a nearby garage. Finding a spot further from the city could save you some money.

Recommended Services

Istanbul Camlica Tower: Private Entry, Transfer & Dine Choices Viator $ 38
Private Marmaris Airport Transfer Service Viator $ 80

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for transit in Turkey are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Turkey. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.

Metro Ride TRY 1.25
Tram Ride TRY 1.25
Short Taxi Ride TRY 5.00
Taxi Ride TRY 13
Local Bus TRY 2.00
Ferry TRY 2.80
Local Bus TRY 3.00
Local Bus TRY 8.50

Food Budget in Turkey

While restaurant and meal prices in Turkey can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Turkey is $51 (TRY1,767) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

Food 2 Meals for one day $ 51 TRY 1,767

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Turkey is around $52 (TRY1767) per person, with previous travelers spending from $20 to $132. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Turkey are as follows:

Breakfast: $9 to $15
Lunch: $8 to $26
Dinner: $18 to $41
Fast Food or Street Food: $8

Turkish food is a combination of Mediterranean, Arabic, and Central Asian flavors, among others. Beef is the most common meat, but you can also find chicken, lamb, and fish. Pork is available, but very uncommon. Food is generally heavily spiced and has a strong but delicious flavor. Rice is often served alongside of a meal. Desserts are also common, particularly in Istanbul where you can find dessert cafes everywhere. They serve everything from cakes and cookies to baklava.

Doner kebab: Turkish kebabs are made from rotating, seasoned meat. They are typically made from lamb or chicken that is slow cooked and served as either a pita sandwich or as a platter with vegetables. You'll see the meat rotating on the side of the street almost everywhere. It's a great dish for lunch or dinner and is usually a more affordable option.

Kofta: This is a Turkish type of meatball that is made from ground meat with onions and special seasoning. They are often an option on buffets or at sit down restaurants throughout the area. They can be strongly spiced or mild, and they are often served with a grain or side of vegetables.

Baklava: Baklava is a sweetened filo pastry that is made with honey and various nuts. It is most commonly found in Eastern Turkey. The diversity of options is mind boggling. You can typically buy baklava by the pound from dessert shops that are in almost every city.

Popular Culinary Destinations

Turkey is an extremely popular culinary destination, and the cuisine is enjoyed around the world. Many visitors come just for the food. Some of the best foodie cities include Istanbul and Antalya.

Istanbul If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Istanbul . From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

Antalya Antalya is one of the best culinary destinations in Turkey. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Food & Dining Tips

Are you planning an extended stay of a week or more in Istanbul or Antalya? Families or groups might want to consider an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen, so you can make meals with less expensive groceries instead of eating out.

If you're traveling with kids, be sure to seek out restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit of money, as these meals are usually priced much lower. Some places may not display the kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter before placing your order.

A lot of hotels feature breakfast in their room rates, although some charge separately for it. Breakfast quality and prices can vary widely from one hotel to another. Understanding this beforehand can help you figure out if the hotel buffet is worth the splurge or if a local bakery or café would be a more economical choice.

Choose to take a water bottle with you instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also beneficial for the planet.

Before taking off on a tour, check which meals are part of the package. If you have to pay for some meals on your own, that could lead to higher costs.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Turkey. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

Istanbul - Europe and Asia Private and Guided Food Tour. For $198 details
Private Ephesus Tour with Cooking Class in the Village for $169 details
Authentic Homemade Turkish Breakfast Cooking with Local Friends for $55 details
Istanbul Evening Food Tour: The Best Bites of Taksim and Karaköy for $85 details

What did other people spend on Food?

Listed below are typical food prices in Turkey, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.

A Quick Lunch TRY 12
Dinner TRY 15
Lunch TRY 18
Lunch TRY 20
Sandwiches TRY 5.00
Dessert TRY 5.50
Snacks TRY 8.00
Lunch at Beach (for 2) TRY 19

Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Turkey

Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Turkey typically cost an average of $48 (TRY1,636) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 48 TRY 1,636

The Best Sightseeing Destinations

As a very popular travel destination, Turkey allows many visitors to tick off several items from their bucket lists. Notable places to explore in Turkey are Istanbul and Antalya.

Istanbul Istanbul sits at the crossroads of east and west. It's a major cosmopolitan city that has long been at the center of trade, culture, religion, and activity. The city is filled with beauty and historical sights that make it a world class travel destination. It attracts everyone from backpackers to high end luxury vacationers who appreciate the diversity and culture that flows through the city.

Antalya Antalya is a resort city in Turkey that attracts European and international tourists. The beaches are lined with hotels and the water is a beautiful blue color. Also nearby are many historical and archeological sights.

Sightseeing Tips

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Turkey. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

Daily Ertugrul Tour from Istanbul for $232 details
Highlights of Cappadocia Tour with Lunch for $118 details
Best Seller: Ephesus Private Tour –Skip-the-Line & On-Time Return for $53 details
Legendary Memories:Ephesus&House of Mary and Bath Experience for $47 details

Recommended Activities

Daily Ertugrul Tour from Istanbul Viator $ 232
Highlights of Cappadocia Tour with Lunch Viator $ 118

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in Turkey, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.

Gorge Walk entry and photo TRY 5.50
Underground City TRY 8.00
Castle entry TRY 10
Goreme open air museum TRY 20
Hagia Sofia entrance TRY 30
Turkish Bath TRY 70
Bellydancing Show TRY 130
Paragliding TRY 240

Nightlife Budget in Turkey

The average person spends about $15 (TRY499) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Turkey per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 15 TRY 499

Popular Nightlife Destinations

Turkey is a highly sought-after spot for nightlife, drawing visitors from across the globe to enjoy its vibrant scene. Some of the top nightlife destinations are Istanbul and Antalya.

Istanbul If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Istanbul . Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Antalya Antalya is one of the best nightlife destinations in Turkey. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Nightlife Tips

Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but drinking less can leave you with more money for other parts of your trip.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Turkey. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey for $105 details
Private Tour: Best of Cappadocia with Wine Tasting for $279 details
Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family for $90 details
Skip-the-line Ephesus & Wine Tasting Tour From Kusadasi Port for $23 details
Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey Viator $ 105
Private Tour: Best of Cappadocia with Wine Tasting Viator $ 279

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in Turkey, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.

Beer TRY 4.00

Budgeting and Travel Tips

Turkey is a popular destination for tourists and the prices can climb dramatically during the peak season. Most places in Turkey see the biggest crowds during the summer season. Hotels fill up and accommodation prices become more expensive during this time of the year. If you want to keep your budget low, then it's better to visit during the shoulder and low seasons.
Locations like Istanbul and Antalya are particularly popular with tourists, which means you should anticipate larger crowds and higher costs during peak times. Expect to encounter busy attractions with lengthy lines, sold-out tickets, and increased prices. In all areas, especially these popular destinations, try to make your reservations well in advance, ideally several months ahead.
In some destinations, it's pretty common for stay for an entire week or more. Places like Istanbul and Antalya are perfect for week-long getaways, and many families, especially those with kids, prefer to book an apartment or vacation rental. This option gives you more space to relax, plus handy amenities like a kitchen, which makes it easier to save a bit of cash while still enjoying a comfortable stay.

Budgeting Challenges

Turkey has limited options for public transportation unless you're visiting places like Istanbul and Antalya. You should plan to rent a car or have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour. This may cut into your budget elsewhere.

In Istanbul, many hotels aren't spacious enough for a family of four or more. You may find yourself needing to book a larger hotel or even pay for two separate rooms. Often hotels further away from the city center are larger and more modern.

Traveling in turkey.

Turkey is a country that is strategically positioned where east meets west. Istanbul, the country's largest city, is split by the Bosphorus, dividing the continents of Europe and Asia. Turkey itself is quite diverse, with some regions having a more European atmosphere, while others are more Middle Eastern. It's a great country if you want to venture into the Muslim world, but also keep a foot in the west.

While Western Turkey has many fascinating mosques, it also has a large European population. The eastern part of the country, however, is home to the Kurdish population and offers a unique cultural experience. The country's coastal areas are strikingly beautiful along the edge of the Mediterranean. They have plenty of hiking and sailing opportunities for sport enthusiasts, but there are also resorts, camps, and hotels or hostels for all types. Whatever your travel style, don't miss the opportunity to do a Blue Cruise, which is a popular tourist activity.

Traveling in Turkey is far less expensive than nearby European countries, but it offers many of the same comforts and luxuries. As the currency continues to strengthen however, you can expect prices to get higher and many of the shockingly good deals will disappear. Istanbul, in particular, is comparable in price to elsewhere in Europe. Food is quite affordable though, even in nicer sit down restaurants. You'll find no shortage of dessert options anywhere in this country. Cakes and pastries are cheap, delicious, and ubiquitous.

Transportation options are abundant, but the large size of the country will tempt you to take a flight, particularly if your time is limited. If you're traveling by land and hoping to save some money, consider overnight buses. They are not exactly comfortable, but they can save you both time and money, and can sometimes make a twelve hour bus ride fly by (or creep frustratingly slowly, depending on the comfort level of the bus).

Street food is your best option if you're on a tight budget. The food is quite tasty and usually of a high quality. It is also a great way to experience the more traditional foods of the country. Street stands are abundant, particularly in the larger cities such as Istanbul.

At A Glance

Many of the showers throughout the country are solar powered. This means when there's no sun, there's no hot water. This is most common in the smaller towns and countryside. Even if you're assured that there is hot water, prepare for lukewarm at best. You'll find the water is warmest in the late afternoon on a sunny day.

Looking for a party in Athens or Istanbul ?

Traveling alone to Athens or Santorini ?

Find a Contiki tour to Europe.

Top Tourist Attractions

Ephesus: One of the best preserved ancient cities dating back to the 12th century BC, Ephesus is one of the top travel destinations in the area. It's best visited in the early morning hours or in the evening when the cruise ships have moved on and the crowds are at a minimum. Guides are available to help you understand the history better, but they are not required.

Pamukkale: An incredibly beautiful natural phenomenon, these calcium pools are unlike anywhere else in the world. A handful of pools remain open for wading, but the vast majority are now closed to the public in an effort to preserve this fragile ecosystem.

Blue Mosque: In the heart of Istanbul, this is an incredibly beautiful mosque named for the blue tiles on its interior. It was built between 1609 and 1616 and, like many mosques of that time period, it has a tomb for its founder.

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Is Turkey Expensive to Visit? How to Travel on a Budget in 2024

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

One of the questions we get asked the most is; is Turkey expensive to travel to? The simple answer is no, Turkey is a cheap place to visit when compared to other European countries, but it’s getting more expensive.

In recent years, we have found that more hotels, restaurants and tour companies have increased their prices to accommodate for the declining value of the Turkish Lira.

We also found that some destinations are more expensive than others, and the time of year you visit also factors into how much you will spend.

The truth is, visiting Turkey today isn’t as cheap as it once was, but that doesn’t mean you can’t travel to Turkey on a budget.

If you’re wondering how much does a trip to Turkey cost? How cheap is it really? In this guide, we’ll be breaking down the cost of everything from transport, food, accommodation, and attractions, so you know exactly how much to budget for your Turkey trip.

At A Glance: How Much Does A Trip to Turkey Cost?

If you’re in a hurry and need a quick answer to how much Turkey is going to cost you, here’s a table showing estimates for how much you’re looking to spend.

After this, we will go into detail about how much each factor costs and how you can save money. All prices listed are in USD($) .

Note that prices tend to be higher in the summer season, and also depend on where in the country you visit, so use this as an estimate for budgeting purposes.

The estimated daily costs do not factor in long-distance transport or the price of alcohol, as this will largely depend on the individual. If you don’t drink or plan to travel around Turkey, your daily budget will be cheaper.

Prices vary depending on your travel style, time of year, and where in Turkey you visit.

Coastal regions such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Antalya tend to cost more as they are popular tourist destinations.

Cost of Transport in Turkey

Transport is where the majority of your budget gets eaten up. You can save money on attractions, food, and even accommodation, but the price of transport is not something you can haggle down and is also a necessity.

Here is how much you will need to budget for transport in Turkey.

Cost of Flights to Turkey

The cost of flights to Turkey will largely depend on where you are flying from. Since Istanbul is the most popular airport for layovers, flights from all over the world travel here.

There are two airports in Istanbul , Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), and Istanbul International Airport (IST) . Istanbul International Airport is where all international flights depart and arrive. Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is really used to domestic flights only these days.

You’re more than likely going to fly into Istanbul International Airport. The average price of a flight to Istanbul is as follows:

From Europe and the United Kingdom: $120-$300
From Asia: $400-$600
From the United States: $700-$1000

The price of the flight will depend on how far in advance you book. The earlier you book, the cheaper the price (usually)!

If you’re flying from the United States, Turkish Airlines are the only airline to operate direct flights. You can fly from the following airports:

Atlanta (ATL)
Boston (BOS)
Chicago (ORD)
Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
Houston (IAH)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Miami (MIA)
New York (EWR) & New York City (JFK)
San Francisco (SFO)
Seattle / Tacoma (SEA)
Washington (IAD)

The longest direct flight is from Mexico City which takes 14 hours. You can also fly direct from these major cities:

Kuala Lumpur

Cost of Internal Flights in Turkey

So your flight to Istanbul will be your largest expense. From here on out, it’s cheap, cheap, cheap! Fortunately, internal flights are really affordable in Turkey.

Most internal flights are operated by Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, or Sun Express. You can fly direct to and from Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, and Cappadocia.

If you want to fly from Cappadocia to Izmir, you will need to change in Istanbul.

However, even if you need to change flight in Istanbul, the flights are really affordable and quite quick, with layovers only lasting between 1-2 hours.

This is because a lot of people take these routes, not just tourists but locals as well. So they are strategically timed to allow you to transfer quickly.

The average cost of internal flights in Turkey is $80-$120 per flight . If you are booking the day before, then you might have to pay up to $150, but it’s very rare to exceed $100 if you’re organized.

Related Reading: How To Get From Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) Airport To Istanbul City Center: 4 Easy Ways

Cost of Long Distance Buses in Turkey

Long-distance buses are the most affordable way to travel across the country. If you’re planning an epic Turkey itinerary , this will be your most affordable way to get from city to city, and it can also be quite convenient too.

Most long-distance bus journeys are night buses . This is because the roads are quieter and safer at night. Since you’ll be traveling for 14-17 hours, we highly recommend you take a night bus if you have the choice to choose between the two. You also get to save on a night’s accommodation!

The price of long-distance buses is usually between $25-$40 depending on the route you take . Istanbul to Cappadocia is a long journey, so it might be at the top end of the budget. From Cappadocia to Antalya , you might find the prices are a little cheaper.

Top tip: we recommend you book your bus ticket locally using the tour providers . We booked using FlixBus, and it turned out they used the local companies anyway, so we would have saved money by booking direct.

Make sure to book a day in advance, as the buses are usually full and you can’t buy a ticket from the bus driver.

The Cost of Inner City Transport

Getting around the cities in Turkey is super easy. In major cities in Turkey, there is a tram network, metro and bus route. The tram is the most affordable way to travel.

The tram network usually connects the suburbs to the city center, and passes by the top attractions. A single trip on the tram can cost you around $0.10 USD.

If you don’t get the tram, the metro and the bus are just as convenient and affordable. The average price of one journey on the metro or bus is $1.00 USD.

You can use your contactless payment card on any mode of transport in the cities, such as metro, tram or bus.

📚 Read more: Getting Around Istanbul

Taxis are the most expensive way to get around, largely because drivers try to scam you. Very rarely do taxi drivers use the meters, and if they do, they like to take the “scenic route” which ends up costing you more. We recommend you take Uber in Istanbul and major cities, so you know how much you are paying up front.

The average cost of a taxi fare in Turkey is between $0.50-$0.70 USD per 1km

You can also save money on the metro in Istanbul or Ankara by getting a monthly pass, if you plan on staying a while.

📚 Read More: Can You Use The Euro In Turkey? Currency In Turkey Guide

Average Cost of Accommodation in Turkey

Your accommodation is really where you can save your pennies. You can find a bed in a hostel dormitory for around $12 USD per night, or you can splash out on a five-star resort on a beach in Antalya for $300 per night. It’s really down to you.

You can find hotels for as high as $500 per night, but those are really for romantic getaways and honeymoons. For the average traveler, or family, you wouldn’t expect to pay this much (unless that’s what you’re looking for!).

To break it down for you, here are the average costs of accommodation:

Hostels – $8-$20 per night for a dorm bed, $34-$75 per night for a private room
Hotels – $45-$80 for a 3-star hotel, $65-$120 for a 4-star hotel, $150-$250 for a five-star hotel.
Vacation rentals – $70 per night for a room, $120 for entire apartments, $250 for houses

Are you reading this from Turkey? Maybe you need a VPN!

If you’re already in Turkey, there is one thing you absolutely NEED: a reliable VPN .

You may find some of your favorite websites and apps are blocked in Turkey , such as popular hotel site booking.com

A VPN allows you to get passed this ruling and enables you to browse these sites without any hassle, and it’s completely legal.

We use Express VPN when we’re in Turkey and we’d recommend it to anyone. It’s affordable, quick, and easy to use.

Cost of Food in Turkey

The best thing about Turkey is the food. The cost of food and drink prices in Turkey is very low, and you can honestly spend less to nothing on food, which makes it one of the most affordable places to visit for foodies.

The average cost of a meal in Turkey is anywhere from $4-$8 per dish. You might pay up to $20 if you include drinks and desserts, which you definitely should because Turkish desserts are just yum!

Street food in Istanbul tends to be really cheap too, but do be careful when trying the stuffed mussels as the price racks up. Generally, stuffed mussels are charged per mussel. When we visited, the going rate worked out to about $0.35 USD per mussel. Bargain!

We ended up eating 20 mussels, which came to around $7 USD. It’s not a lot but if you go crazy, it adds up. We also bought an ice cream later in the day for about $0.40 USD and then went to town in the Grand Bazaar.

Top tip: If you’re in Istanbul and you’ve spent a large amount of your daily budget already, head to Eminou and get a fish sandwich for your dinner at just 15 Lira ($0.56 USD). Here’s an image of the shop below so you know what to look for.

Don’t forget you have three meals a day on average, so remember this when you’re putting your daily food budget together.

Cost of Groceries in Turkey

You can save a lot of money by shopping at the supermarket and cooking for yourself.

To help you estimate the cost of your groceries, here is the average cost of some staple food items such as fruit, vegetables and meat:

Cost of Alcohol in Turkey

Alcohol in Turkey is really cheap and you can also find some exceptional Turkish wines from the Cappadocia region. We bought a bottle of wine in Cappadocia for about $2 and were able to bring it into a restaurant with us to have with our meal.

You should note that alcohol is rarely served in restaurants since it is a Muslim country. However, most places don’t mind you bringing your own but do ask before you whip out a bottle and start chugging.

In places like Antalya or Bodrum, you’ll find many bars serving alcohol. These cities have a nightlife culture, so you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs here serving a variety of drinks, from local beers, to international beers, and spirits.

The average price of alcohol is as follows:

Wine by the bottle – $2 – $7.00
Wine by the glass – $0.50 – $0.85
Beer – $1.48 for a local beer, $2.50 for an international beer
Cocktails – $7.50

Cost of Attractions in Turkey

After transport, your second biggest expense is your attractions. Depending on where you are in Turkey, you can expect to pay quite a bit for tours.

However, you can save money by either visiting attractions yourself and planning your own transport. Or taking tours from nearby towns and cities, rather than from Istanbul.

For example, a trip to Ephesus from Izmir is going to cost you $200 from Istanbul if you include flights, transport, and the entrance ticket. But from Izmir, it will come to $35 if you include the transport and entrance fee.

Izmir-to-Selcuk-Ephesus-Pamukkale-Ticket

Booking tours save you time in planning, but it tends to cost a bit more than doing it yourself. It can sometimes cost a bit more to book online than by purchasing from a local tour company, but it can also sometimes save you money – it really depends on the tour and the time of year.

We do recommend shopping around before booking attractions to see the most economical way of seeing things.

Fortunately, many things to do in Istanbul are free, such as mosques, parks, and visiting landmarks such as The Grand Bazaar. In Cappadocia, it’s free to hike any of the valleys.

You can also save money on attractions by getting an Istanbul Tourist Pass, which is a tourist pass that gives you discounts at 75 attractions in the city.

You can always find good deals for hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia when booking online.

The average cost of attractions is anywhere from $20 – $80 per attraction , depending on whether you need to organize transport and the type of attraction.

📚 Read more: The Best Tours in Cappadocia

Cost of Souvenirs in Turkey

Everyone wants to get a souvenir on vacation and Turkey is the best place to do some shopping.

When shopping for luxury brands, you will find the same prices in high street brands like Zara and H&M as you would anywhere else in the world. You will find cheaper deals by shopping in local stores.

You can take home all manner of souvenirs and gifts for friends and families, and with places like the Grand Bazaar being full of thousands of stalls, you can get really carried away when shopping.

To help you work out how much to expect, here’s the average cost of souvenirs in Turkey:

Turkish delight – $6 – $30, depending on whether you get one or a box
Turkish towel or textiles – $9-$18
Turkish tea / coffee – $12-$18
Turkish lamp – $48
Turkish rug – $50 – $100 USD (the cheaper ones tend to be factory-made knockoffs)
Nazar Amulet (Evil Eye) – $14
Herbs and spices – $1-$2
Ceramics – $12-$18
Baklava – $18 – $36

If you’re not sure what souvenirs to take home with you, here’s a complete guide to souvenirs in Turkey .

Note: you can sometimes haggle at markets such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, but prices in stores are fixed price.

Additional Costs to Consider

We have pretty much covered all the usual expenses for a vacation to Turkey, but there are some additional costs you should allow for in your budget.

We recommend you add 10% to your daily budget to cover any unforeseen purchases, such as medicine from a pharmacy or snacks.

Here are some other expenses to consider:

Water. Bottles of water tend to cost around $0.26 – $0.48. However, tap water is drinkable in many cities. You can also take a water filtration bottle such as Grayl or LifeStraw and save money on buying water.
Sun loungers or umbrellas at the beach. If you’re planning on visiting one of the many beaches in Bodrum , Antalya or Fethiye, then you may have to pay for a sun lounger. Some places allow you to use a lounger outside a restaurant if you buy a drink or snack. Otherwise, the going rate is about $5.38 (100 Lira).
ATM fees. Depending on your bank account, you may get charged ATM fees. Most ATMs don’t charge a fee, but your bank might. Check with your bank before visiting.
Tipping. It’s customary to leave a 10% tip in Turkey. Places that usually require tipping is restaurants and cafes, and sometimes hotel chambermaids. You don’t have to tip your taxi driver, but they usually appreciate you rounding up the fare.
Resort tax. Some five-star hotels and resorts will charge an extra 1% of the total stay price as tax per night. This isn’t a huge amount but it can add up.
Visa. Some countries require a visa for Turkey. Americans can no longer get a Visa on arrival and must pay $85.00 for the Visa plus there may also be a service fee.
SIM card. You’re going to want a SIM card so you’re always connected to the internet, right? The cost of a SIM card can vary depending on the data plan you go for. Here’s a comprehensive guide to sim cards in Turkey to help you decide.
Travel insurance. There are many different providers who offer travel insurance, so it’s a good idea to shop around. You should make sure your travel insurance covers hospital bills and medical emergencies. Obviously, we don’t want any accidents, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared. You should also make sure it has trip cancellation cover, especially if you plan to visit Bodrum or Fethiye in the summer. This is because wildfires can sometimes happen and disrupt your travel plans.

Cost of Living in Turkey

Are you considering moving to Turkey? Or are you planning to stay for a month or more working as a digital nomad? Then you might be wondering whether the monthly cost of Turkey is expensive to live in.

The short answer is no. The typical cost of an apartment is around $530 USD per month . On top of this, you have utilities such as internet costs which are around $11 USD per month .

On average, a family of four spends $70 a month on utilities , which covers electricity, water, and garbage disposal.

You will also need to think about healthcare. The average cost of a dental visit, which includes consultations, cleaning, x-rays, is about $30 USD per visit . If you need fillings, it will be $60-$100, or $150 for a root canal per tooth.

To see a doctor, a standard appointment without the need of x-rays or special examinations, is around $7-$10 USD .

You can also find affordable coworking spaces in Istanbul that are as little as 100 TL per hour, if you do need to hire a hot desk space or private office.

After that, the cost of living comes to around $350 per month on average, if you cook meals yourself and take public transport.

It’s estimated that the cost of living in Turkey is about 61.25% less than in the United States, with rent coming at a whopping 86.29% lower than in U.S.

FAQs About Turkey Prices & Travel Costs

Here’s what people usually ask us about whether Turkey is expensive:

Is Turkey expensive for a holiday?

No, Turkey is cheap, especially if you opt for budget accommodation and dine at local restaurants. However, it’s not as cheap as it used to be because of the declining currency rate.

How much is a Coke in Turkey?

Coca Cola costs on average around $0.50 USD.

How much is a beer in Turkey?

In restaurants and bars, a beer will cost between $1.88-$2.42 USD depending on whether you get local or international.

Is food and drink cheap in Turkey?

Yes, food is very cheap in Turkey. You can get a kebab, gyro, or pide for as little as $4 USD.

When is the cheapest time to visit Turkey?

Those wanting to know when Turkey is cheap to visit, will need to plan their trip for the winter months, from November until February. You will find the highest prices in Turkey in the summer, from June until September.

Final Verdict: How much does it cost to travel to Turkey?

So there you have it, this is how much it will cost you to travel to Turkey. As you can see, there is a lot to consider when planning your trip and working out your budget. I bet you thought it was easy, right?

It’s really easy to get carried away and go over budget, especially with booking tours and shopping for souvenirs.

To make matters easier, here’s how much we would recommend for a daily budget in Turkey:

Solo travelers or backpackers – $60 per day
Couples – $100 per day
Families – $180 per day

As we mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to add 10% to cover emergencies – though we hope you don’t need to use it!

Our final tip for those budget travelers out there is that you can save considerably by traveling off the beaten path and not sticking to the usual tourist trails.

The average salary for a Turkish local is about $600 USD per month, so you can’t expect them to pay the same prices as tourists, right?

So, how expensive is Turkey really? By now you have a rough idea of what it will cost you to travel in Turkey and what kind of budget you need. If you have any more questions or would like to add something to this guide to help a fellow traveler out, reach out to us in the comments!

Note: The prices listed in this article are estimates based on the prices we found on our visit in December 2023 and are subject to change. This is because the Turkish Lira is always fluctuating and prices tend to be higher in the summer – so to ere on the side of caution. We have used summer prices in this guide. Who knows, it may even be cheaper when you visit!

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

6 thoughts on “Is Turkey Expensive to Visit? How to Travel on a Budget in 2024”

A friend went to kusadasi. Last week and she said she paid 9.000 tL for 3 meals and drinks also she was charged 55 euro service charge. I cant believe prices has gone up that much?

Hey Isobell, that is a lot of money even outside of Turkey. Kusadasi is a resort town so it is a little bit more expensive than other parts of Turkey, but 9000 TL for 3 meals is ridiculous. Unless she went to a very luxurious restaurant in Kusadasi, or she got scammed.

I love the content of your page. And i very much agree on you about Turkiye. Been visiting Turkiye couple of times and i cant get enough of it. And going through your page i came to learn more and putting it on my tab for next visit. Thanks for sharing all the information needed to maximize the trip on a budget.

Thanks for sharing such info on this page. Türkiye is really increble to visit.

The inflation inside the country has left many Turks worse off financially and they will always be trying to price gouge you. All day you will be haggling to get the correct price. It can get very tiring, which is not what you want from a relaxing holiday. It all starts when you land and you try to exchange for Turkish Lira. And when you step outside and order a taxi, you will literally be taken for a ride. Hotels will charge you all sorts of extras and restaurants will add all sorts of items such as water and treats which you might think are free and “service”. And your alcohol will taste watery. But once you go out of the touristy areas things get a lot better.

Hi George, yes you are right, the declining value of the Lira has caused many hotels, restaurants and tour operators to push their prices up. You will also find that right now is peak tourist season and is why you can expect to see higher prices. This guide was updated in August 2023 which was the last time we visited, so we do think the prices in this guide are accurate. The summer is not the cheapest time to visit Turkey and it also depends on which city you visit – though you will find cheaper prices in most coastal towns in Turkey than in other countries in Europe. I highly recommend you withdraw money from the ATM machine (no more than 1000 lira at a time or you lose out to the declining Lira) as you will find a better rate doing this than exchanging money, especially at the airport. You are right that prices are cheaper off the beaten track.