Turkey is a very popular destination famed for the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the Library of Celsus in Ephesus, and the travertine terraces in Pamukkale, and this travel cost guide will help you plan the perfect trip without overspending. This Turkey trip budget calculator shows you average costs from thousands of past travelers, including info on 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?
A typical traveler spends $124 (₺5,707) per day on a trip to Turkey. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Turkey based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $47 (₺2,158) on meals
- $33 (₺1,504) on local transportation
- $93 (₺4,287) on hotels
A one-week trip to Turkey for two people costs, on average, $1,742 (₺79,898). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Over the last few years, inflation in Turkey has been high. Prices can be much higher than expected, especially in larger cities.
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.
Is Turkey expensive to visit?
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 reasonably affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable countries such as Ukraine, but there are also more expensive countries, such as Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands.
In Turkey, budget travelers spend $50 (₺2,303) per person per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $124 (₺5,707) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $299 (₺13,729) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Turkey.
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, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities.
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
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$20
(₺905)
|
$47
(₺2,143)
|
$100
(₺4,570)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$13
(₺579)
|
$33
(₺1,504)
|
$88
(₺4,033)
|
|
Food2
|
$19
(₺857)
|
$47
(₺2,158)
|
$118
(₺5,397)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$13
(₺597)
|
$34
(₺1,546)
|
$90
(₺4,109)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-7
(₺102-307)
|
$5-16
(₺250-749)
|
$13-38
(₺578-1,735)
|
Diyarbakir, Turkey
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.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Turkey for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $93 (₺4,287). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $47 (₺2,143) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Turkey? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
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 $14 for a dorm bed.
Izmir
In Izmir, which is a medium , expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $25 in the low season to $136 during the peak season. Key Hotel ($123) is one of the best hotel options here, and Kordon Hotel Cankaya is also good, and starts at $71. You can expect to pay around $14 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.
Antalya
Antalya is a terrific vacation spot that is one of the top tourist destinations in Turkey. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Antalya, the average hotel price is $46 in the low season and $86 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $50 to $93. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $15 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Eski Masal Hotel - Adult Only +11 for $69 and Delight Deluxe Boutique Hotel starting at $56. Since travelers often stay up to five days, it's essential to look for a comfortable lodging option in a desirable location if you plan to explore for a bit.
Local Transportation Budget in Turkey
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $33 (₺1,504) 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 Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$33
₺1,504
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 looking to save money, public transit is the best way to get around. Many places have reliable public transportation systems. Some of the best include Istanbul and Ephesus. Many travelers like to experience places on foot. This lets you get up close and personal with different neighborhoods and the local culture. If you like walking, you'll enjoy your time in these cities.
If you're in larger cities such as Istanbul and Ephesus, consider grabbing a multi-day pass if you plan to use public transit often. You could save a substantial amount depending on your usage rather than buying tickets individually.
Planning to explore the countryside? You'll likely want to rent a car. Keep in mind that the average car in Europe has a manual transmission, and an automatic will come at a higher price. It's best to make your reservation early, as the cheaper options often sell out fast.
Navigating larger cities with a car, such as Istanbul, can be quite challenging due to their busy and crowded nature. Parking often comes with a hefty price tag, and traffic can be a hassle. By skipping the rental car and opting for public transit or walking, you can save money and enjoy the city more easily.
If you have a car while staying in a larger city, it's wise to confirm the parking arrangements with your hotel before arrival. You may incur parking fees at the hotel or in a nearby garage. Sometimes, parking further from the city center can be a more cost-effective option.
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 Cards
₺213
-
Tram Ride
₺1.25
-
Metro Ride
₺1.25
-
Short Taxi Ride
₺5.00
-
Taxi Ride
₺13
-
Local Bus
₺2.00
-
Local Bus
₺8.50
Food Budget in Turkey
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Turkey can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Turkey is $47 (₺2,158) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$47
₺2,158
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Turkey is around $47 (₺2158) per person, with previous travelers spending from $19 to $118. 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: $8 to $14
- Lunch: $7 to $24
- Dinner: $16 to $38
- Coffee: $4
- 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.
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, Antalya, and Izmir.
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.
Izmir
One of the best culinary spots in Turkey is Izmir. Located on the coast, the city is known for its fresh seafood like grilled fish, calamari, and midye dolma (stuffed mussels). Kumru, a local sandwich made with sesame-crusted bread and filled with sucuk or cheese, is a must-try street food. Also popular are meze, which are small plates of appetizers like hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and zeytinyağlılar (vegetables cooked in olive oil).
Ephesus
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Ephesus. Most of the food options are found in the nearby town of Selçuk. Popular dishes include kebabs, mezes, and pide (Turkish flatbread pizza). Many restaurants are casual and cater specifically to the tourist crowds.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. The town has a number of restaurants and cafes that serve dishes like kebabs, meze platters, and pide (Turkish flatbread). Gözleme (a savory stuffed pancake) is a popular street food in the area, but there are also many of the most popular Turkish dishes available.
If you're spending a week or more in Istanbul or Antalya, it's worth considering an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen for families or groups. This way, you can cook meals with budget-friendly groceries instead of constantly dining out.
When dining out with children, look for eateries that have a childrens' menu. It can save you a lot of money since these meals are typically more affordable. Some restaurants might not show the kids' options on the menu, so don't hesitate to ask your waiter first.
Many hotels come with breakfast included in the price, but some add it as an extra fee. The quality and cost of breakfast can change depending on the hotel. Knowing what to expect can assist you in deciding whether the hotel buffet is a worthwhile expense or if a nearby bakery or café would be a better choice.
Make sure to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks at every opportunity. It's also a great way to help the environment.
If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.
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:
- Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour: Taste of Istanbul for $264 details
- Istanbul Home Cooking Experience in a Local Home for $69 details
- Private Ephesus Tour & Cooking Experience with locals for $160 details
- Çiğ Köfte Cooking Class/Night with Traditional Music At Home for $60 details
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.
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A Quick Lunch
₺12
-
Dinner
₺15
-
Lunch
₺18
-
Lunch
₺20
-
Sandwiches
₺5.00
-
Dessert
₺5.50
-
Snacks
₺8.00
-
Lunch at Beach (for 2)
₺19
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Turkey
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Turkey typically cost an average of $34 (₺1,546) 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.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$34
₺1,546
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, Ephesus, 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.
Ephesus
Ephesus, located in western Turkey, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world and a world-class destination for history enthusiasts. Once a thriving Greco-Roman city, it is home to many iconic landmarks. Many visitors stay in the nearby town of Selçuk, which has hotels and restaurants. This is also a popular destination with cruise ship passengers and tour groups, who usually visit for the day before moving on.
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.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale, located in southwestern Turkey, is home to the famous travertine terraces, which is a stunning natural wonder that is recognized for its cascading white pools that are filled with turquoise thermal waters. It has been a popular attraction for centuries due to its unique landscape and the therapeutic properties of its mineral-rich waters. Visitors can walk barefoot along the travertine pools but swimming has been limited to preserve the environment. Pamukkale is also home to the ancient city of Hierapolis, where guests can explore ruins such as a well-preserved theater, ancient baths, and the Necropolis.
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:
- Private Old City Guided Tour for $231 details
- Hidden Beyoğlu Tour for $145 details
- Basilica Cistern (Private Guide & No waiting) Ticket not included for $30 details
- Private Ephesus Tour & Farm Lunch for $100 details
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.
Nightlife Budget in Turkey
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $11 (₺500) 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.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$11
₺500
Turkey is a fun place to enjoy the local nightlife, as you'll find a variety of bars, clubs, parties, and more. A few of the best cities for nightlife 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.
While enjoying the nightlife is often one of the most fun activities while traveling, cutting back on drinking can actually help reduce your travel budget in a big way.
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 $276 details
- FOR CRUISERS:Kusadasi Port Private Wine Tasting and Ephesus Tour for $45 details
- Cappadocia Private Tour-Mixed Tour+Home-made Wine Tasting for $219 details
- Skip-the-Line: Ephesus Shore Excursion & Wine Tasting for $21 details
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.
Travel Costs Last Updated: Apr 20, 2026
Traveling in Turkey
Pamukkale, Turkey
Turkey (Turkiye) 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
- Buses are generally of high quality, but the trips can be very long because the country is so large. Overnight buses are a common option for the longest routes. This can help you save money and time but it you can't sleep on the bus it will cause you to have a rough day after you arrive. It is possible to negotiate the price of a bus ticket. You'll be more successful in some cities than in others. In Eastern Turkey in particular, negotiating is recommended.
- Once you get outside of Istanbul the prices will drop dramatically. You can also negotiate the price of almost anything, particularly when you're in the countryside. Even bus tickets and hotel prices are often negotiable.
- Turkey has a lot to offer visitors who venture outside of the major tourist areas. Try to head to some of the less frequently visited towns and you'll be welcomed with a level of friendliness you might miss in the big cities.
- It's easy to fill a week or more while you're visiting Istanbul. It's a beautiful city and there are many neighborhoods worth visiting that are off the beaten path and left out of the guidebooks. Plan ahead so you know everything that you want to see and do.
- 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.
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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.
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Turkey on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
Who are Budget Travelers?
It's common to hear that a visit to Turkey can cost just $50 a day, but unless you're willing to forgo many comforts, expect to spend significantly more.
Backpackers often find ways to stick to this tight budget, but it generally means staying in hostel dorms, grabbing meals at the cheapest spots or fast food places, relying on public transport or walking, and visiting only free attractions.
Fortunately, Turkey is home to numerous hostels, and you'll find the largest number in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. Some destinations offer excellent public transportation, allowing budget travelers to skip costly taxi or Uber fares. Food is a highlight for all types of visitors to Turkey, but budget travelers often dine on street food or cook meals in their hostel, so they may not always experience this aspect of the country.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're traveling as a couple or family, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular restaurants, and visit major museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most visitors are not going to want to miss Hadrian's Gate in Antalya. After all, most activities do come with a price tag. With that in mind, you should realistically plan for a daily budget of about $124 per person.
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. For couples visiting Kayseri, check out Mirada del Lago for a romantic place to stay. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for Turkey here.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
For a trip filled with top-notch service and every possible comfort, expect your budget to reach around $299 per day, per person. Staying in high-end accommodations, enjoying gourmet meals, going on lavish adventures, and hiring personal drivers comes with a luxury price tag. You'll be in the company of the wealthy in locations like Pamukkale and Istanbul. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as 14-Day Private, Premium Tour of TURKEY | Premium Tranquility & Relaxation! | VIP Road Trip | by ANGELS VACATIONS - offered by Angels Vacations.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
