Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey
The capital of Turkey is Ankara. It became the capital in 1923, replacing Istanbul, following the founding of the Republic of Turkey.
The official language of Turkey is Turkish. Kurdish, Arabic, and Zaza are also spoken by minorities within the country.
The currency used in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
Turkey is a transcontinental country located mainly on the Anatolian Peninsula in Western Asia, with a smaller portion on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeastern Europe.
As of the last update in April 2023, Turkey had a population of approximately 85 million people. However, for the most current population figures, please refer to the latest census or estimations.
Turkey is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, stunning architecture, vibrant markets, Turkish cuisine, beautiful coastlines, and landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys.
The best time to visit Turkey is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasantly mild and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Traditional Turkish foods to try include Kebab, Baklava, Meze, Lahmacun, Turkish Delight, Börek, and Turkish tea and coffee.
The Turkish flag consists of a white star and crescent on a red background. It symbolizes the Ottoman Empire’s legacy and is a powerful national emblem representing Turkish independence and sovereignty.
Turkey’s climate varies widely, with coastal areas enjoying a Mediterranean climate (hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters), while inland areas experience a continental climate (hot summers and cold, snowy winters).
Turkey is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Historic Areas of Istanbul, Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, and the Great Mosque and Hospital of Divriği.
The main religion in Turkey is Islam, with the majority of the population identifying as Sunni Muslims.
In Turkey, transportation options include buses, trains, domestic flights, and ferries. Major cities also have metro, tram, and bus systems for urban travel.
Popular destinations include Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Bodrum, and the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
Traditional Turkish arts include carpet weaving, ceramics, calligraphy, miniature painting, and marbling (ebru).
The Turkish education system includes compulsory education from age 6 to 18, encompassing primary and secondary education. Turkey also has numerous universities and higher education institutions.
Turkish tea culture involves drinking tea (çay) throughout the day, often served in a tulip-shaped glass. Tea gardens and cafes are popular meeting spots.
A Turkish Bath, or Hamam, is a traditional steam bath experience that includes a body scrub, foam massage, and relaxation, rooted in Ottoman culture.
Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to follow travel advisories, remain vigilant, and respect local customs and regulations.
Popular souvenirs include Turkish carpets, ceramics, spices, Turkish delight, tea and coffee, evil eye ornaments, and handmade jewelry.