Itinerary

*DAY 01* -Early depart from Izmir hotels to ADB airport for your Istanbul flight(1.10 hours) -Blue Mosque -Hippodrome -Obelisk -Serpent Column -Topkapi Palace -Grand Bazaar -End of the day drive to Istanbul hotels -Dinner & overnight Istanbul *DAY 02* -Pick up from Istanbul hotels -Bosphorus Cruise -Galata Bridge -Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Market) -Rustem Pasha Mosque -End of the tour drive to IST or SAW airport for your Izmir flight

• Starting Points: Turkey/Izmir
• Day 1 Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Obelisk, Serpent Column, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar
  Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Obelisk, Serpent Column, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar

  Istanbul, renowned for its cultural and historical richness, stands as not only one of Turkey's most significant cities but also one of the world's important destinations. Geographically bridging Asia and Europe, it brings together the influences of both the East and the West. As the former capital of two mighty empires, Istanbul carries the splendid heritage of the Eastern Roman Empire and the Ottoman Empire into the present day, making it a truly remarkable city.The majority of famous historical sites are concentrated on the European side of Istanbul, offering a wealth of attractions to explore. Sultanahmet Square, an essential location in the city, serves as a beacon of history. Istanbul, having been home to various civilizations throughout its history, showcases a complex array of artifacts in Sultanahmet Square, which was once the Hippodrome area in ancient times. Noteworthy structures to visit in this square include the German Emperor William II Fountain, the Obelisk, and the Serpent Column. Additionally, the surrounding area is home to renowned museums and architectural marvels.While the mere sight of Hagia Sophia is enough to captivate visitors, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque elevates our love for Istanbul to another level. Known as the "Blue Mosque" due to the magnificent blue patterns adorning its interior walls, it stands as the first and only mosque within the Ottoman Empire to have six minarets. The decorations in the mosque's minarets, featuring more than 20,000 tiles with 50 different tulip patterns from Iznik, are particularly eye-catching. These exquisite tiles depict flowers, fruits, and cypress trees, creating a peaceful and awe-inspiring scene. Ostrich eggs were strategically placed throughout the interior to prevent spiders, adding to the mosque's unique features. The mosque also boasts a meticulously crafted marble mihrab, surrounded by windows that allow the imam's voice to be heard clearly, even during crowded times. Its beauty, magnificence, and historical significance have earned it the distinction of giving its name to the surrounding region.The Ancient Roman Hippodrome in Istanbul, originally built in the 2nd century AD, showcases the remains of a grand structure in Sultanahmet Square, known as the Horse Square today. Emperor Constantine the Great rebuilt the magnificent Hippodrome in the 4th century. Among the surviving works in the Hippodrome are the Obelisk, brought from Egypt, and the Serpentine Column, relocated from the Apollo temple in Delphi. Many other artworks, including statues of legendary charioteers and monuments of emperors, were once present but were largely destroyed during the 57-year Latin occupation. Throughout history, this place has served as a gathering square and a site of rebellion for the masses.Hagia Sophia Mosque, together with its neighboring Topkapi Palace Museum, is considered one of the most significant buildings in the world in terms of art and architectural history. Originally constructed as a church in 325, it was rebuilt in 537 and transformed into a mosque by Mehmet the Conqueror after the conquest of Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, often regarded as the eighth wonder of the world, features numerous mosaic ornaments from different periods, including remarkable figureless mosaics in the narthex area. Great efforts have been made to preserve and protect Hagia Sophia as a symbol of conquest. In the mosque complex, you'll find minarets, a madrasah, a primary school, fountains, public fountains, sundials, and a trustees' room, which were added in various periods, making it a grand structure from the Ottoman era.The construction of Topkapi Palace, initiated by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1453 and completed in 1478, holds great significance in Istanbul's history. Spanning a vast 70-decare area on the Eastern Roman acropolis in Sarayburnu, at the edge of the historic Istanbul peninsula between the Marmara Sea, the Bosphorus, and the Golden Horn, it served as the administrative, educational, and artistic center of the empire for approximately four hundred years, housing the sultans. Although it was eventually abandoned when the dynasty moved to Dolmabahce Palace in the mid-19th century, it has retained its importance. Today, the Topkapi Palace Museum covers an area of approximately 30 decare and is one of the world's largest palace-museums, featuring architectural marvels and housing a vast collection of approximately 300,000 archival documents.Hagia Eirene Church (Aya Irini) holds the distinction of being Istanbul's first church and museum. Legend has it that the church was named after a young woman named Penelope. It is considered the second-largest temple from the Roman period after Hagia Sophia. Although the original church, built during the time of Constantine, was burned during the Nika riot in 532, Emperor Justinian II rebuilt it. While the church suffered damage from an earthquake in 738, repairs were made, and the apses and ceiling were adorned with new frescoes and mosaics. During the iconoclasm period, the depictions were closed, as was the case in other places of worship. Interestingly, Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, who was knowledgeable about Greek and Roman history, respected the story of St. Eirene and chose not to convert the church into a mosque. The main dome, supported by four large elephant feet, reaches a height of 35 meters. The upper floor of the building is designed as a vast ancient Roman cross. Hagia Eirene, Istanbul's first church and one of the grandest structures of the Roman Empire, holds a significant place in the city's history.The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets globally, is a must-visit destination in Istanbul. With its labyrinthine streets and passages, it attracts countless tourists and serves as a bustling trade center. Here, you can find something to suit every taste and budget. The Grand Bazaar is not only a fantastic historical site for shopping but also offers a delightful experience of strolling through vibrant streets, indulging in the captivating aromas of colorful shops and spices.I hope you enjoy your time exploring Istanbul and its fascinating historical and cultural treasures.

  

  

  

• Day 2 Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise, Galata Bridge, Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Market), Rustem Pasha Mosque
  Bosphorus Cruise, Galata Bridge, Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Market), Rustem Pasha Mosque

  Eminonu district, along with the neighboring Sirkeci district, is a bustling and tourist-friendly area within Istanbul's historical peninsula. It serves as a vital transportation hub and offers a vibrant atmosphere. Among its prominent attractions is the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Spice Market, which is one of Istanbul's oldest and most popular bazaars. This historical building is often one of the first stops for tourists visiting the city. In addition to its array of colorful spices, the Spice Market offers local clothing, nuts, flower seeds, and coffee, making it a delightful place to explore and capture beautiful photos.Another notable feature in the area is the Galata Bridge, situated at the entrance of the Golden Horn and connecting Karakoy and Eminonu. Spanning 490 meters, the bridge holds a unique history and is famous for the fishermen who can be seen casting their lines into the water below. Underneath the bridge, you'll find various fish restaurants, adding to the charm of this iconic structure. The Galata Bridge stands as a significant symbol of Istanbul and offers picturesque views.During your visit to Istanbul, I highly recommend taking the opportunity to embark on an incredible Bosphorus tour. This wonderful cruise tour starts from the Golden Horn and takes you through the Bosphorus Strait, eventually reaching the Black Sea. Along the way, you'll experience the beauty of Istanbul, situated between two continents, Asia and Europe. The tour allows you to explore three of the best spots in Istanbul in a single day, while also treating you to breathtaking scenery. You'll have the chance to disembark on the Asia side and explore attractions such as Ortakoy, Camlica Hill, and Dolmabahce Palace. This fantastic Istanbul visit will leave a lasting impression, making you eager to return.The Asian side of Istanbul is home to numerous historical places and structures that are worth visiting. One such destination is Camlica Hill, located in Uskudar. With its stunning views of Istanbul and its elevated position, Camlica Hill is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Divided into two sections, large Camlica and small Camlica, the hill offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus, the islands, the Golden Horn, and the European side of Istanbul. Whether you choose to visit the expansive large Camlica or the picturesque small Camlica, the experience will be equally delightful.Dolmabahce Palace is another enchanting attraction on the Asian side of Istanbul. This palace, characterized by its European baroque-style architecture and oriental ambiance, served as the residence for the last six sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Construction of Dolmabahce Palace, initiated by Sultan Abdulmecid in 1843, was completed in 1856. Unlike Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace consists of a single large building, complemented by several mansions and a spacious garden. The palace is divided into three main sections: the Imperial Council, where state administrative affairs were conducted; the Ceremony Hall, used for state banquets and ceremonies; and the Imperial Harem, where the Sultan and his family lived their private lives. Within the Harem's garden, you can also find the Clock Museum, showcasing beautiful timepieces from the National Palaces Clock Collection.I hope this alternative paragraph provides you with the desired information about Eminonu district, Galata Bridge, the Bosphorus tour, Camlica Hill, and Dolmabahce Palace on the Asian side of Istanbul.

  

  

  

  

• End Points: Turkey/Izmir

Informations

• What's Included

  • 1 night - Accommodation With Dinner (4 Star Hotel or Special Class Boutique Hotel )
  • 4 Airport Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Pick up from your hotel or meeting point.
  • Drop off to your hotel or meeting point.
  • Parking Fees of Archaeological sites and national parks.
  • Private professional licenced tour guide.
  • This is a private tour/activity, only your group will participate.
  • Local Taxes.
  

• What's Excluded

  • Admission fees to the museums and sights.
  • Personal expenses not included.
  • Lunch and Dinner
  • Domestic flight tickets
  • Gratuities to tour guides and drivers.
  

• Travel Tips

  • For the Churches, mosques, and The Tombs, a visit to these places requires respect. So proper dressing into such places is advised.
  • Please wear comfortable shoes and a casual dress code.
  • Guests should watch their steps at all times in order to avoid injuries to people with mobility impairments.
  • Cameras (but tripods are not allowed in Turkish Museums and sites).
  • Good quality sunglasses are advised and photo-chromatic lenses for those who wear spectacles.
  • Hat, sunscreen, and umbrella for the rainy or sunny days, especially days that can be hot in Archaeological sites.
  • You can get bottles of soft drinks, it can be scorching hot during the day.
  • The clothes you bring with you should be according to the season of your trip. Shorts, t-shirts can be worn. There is no obligation to cover your head or shoulders In Turkey.
  • You may pay the entrance fees by credit card or Turkish Liras (The Museums charging only Turkish Liras and Credit cards).
  

• Note

  • Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time
  • This tour operated with just your party and a guide/driver
  • Complementery Turkey Map and Turkey Brouchers
  • The tour document with details and confirmations will be e-mailed after your prebooking.
  • Single travellers are obliged to pay Single Supplement and will have the hotel room to themselves.
  • Infant seats are available
  • It is suitable for wheelchair users
  • All customer touchpoints are frequently cleaned
  • Social distancing is maintained in vehicles.
  • Passport or ID card required
  • Masks required
  • This tour is available all year round.
  

Customer Comments - Tripadvisor Write A Review!

• 

  JohnAlex84

  Jun 2022

  Pamukkale Trip

  I had a prompt and enjoyable service through Castle Tours. We were a group of 11 people and this was a customised personal tour. The van and guide arrived on time and has been very flexible and helpful throughout..They have been helping and accomodating with small kids and the guide was very informative..They never made any fuss with timings nor stayed with us all the way through. The cost was very reasonable and could pay in any currency via portable paying machine on the day....Highly recommend...

• 

  Ricky G

  May 2022

  A wondrous trip

  Reassuringly The Guides really were excellent in every way welcoming,friendly,extremely helpful,informative,doing their upmost in catering for every wish & desire! You have to visit Izmir.i'd put it right at the top of your Turkish itinerary. A must do.don't pass by this opportunity if you can.you'll savour this beautiful city & its wonderful people.the sights,tastes,sounds & smells will captivate you.the iskender OR bursa kebab lunch was so delicious & my Partner even had a chicken curry at the same restaurant we stopped off at in Izmir which was so appetising full of fresh ingredients! you can even see some of the cooking being done right in front of your very eyes.there's a fair bit of walking involved but well worth it if you're able to manage it.the ferry ride to the other side of Izmir is so delightful.the Male Market Sellers are a bit of a pest though.it feels like every one is trying to persuade you into their business to spend your cash but hey that's part of the Turkey experience.keep moving on & it's fine.wallow in the splendour of one of Turkeys most fab cities

• 

  Fadi081577

  May 2022

  BEST TOUR GUIDE EVER!!!!!!

  I cannot tell you what an amazing guide Yeliz is and the driver we had too was amazing. Yeliz was incredibly knowledgeable, spoke perfect english, was very charismatic. Honestly she became like our best friend. We wanted to take her back home with us she became like a sister to us. BEST BEST BEST EXPERIENCE EVER! was the highlight of our entire Turkey trip

• 

  SuzanneJane

  May 2022

  Amazing sites & fun guides

  Super tour with Castle Travel! Our guide Yeliz took us from Izmir to the three main sites at Pergamon: the Asklepion, the Red Basilica, and the Akropolis. She had all kinds of interesting stories to tell about each of the sites and really brought them to life for us. I would go on a tour with her again in a second. She was great to hang out with, as were our guide-in-training, Mustafa and our driver Umet. Pickup was right on time. Yeliz knew some great local places to stop for lunch and tea, and clued us in regarding local culture as well as the amazing sites of Pergamon. Highly recommended!

• 

  Adam

  Jan 2022

  Super Time

  We were there 2 weeks ago Harun is a great guide. It was a great experience great location and we had a great time thanks to our guide. Thank you to Harun and our driver.

• 

  Charles J S

  Jan 2022

  Thanks Harunn!

  Pamukkale is a fascinating place, I found its hot spring interesting. We wanted to do a balloon tour, but unfortunately it was not possible due to weather conditions. It was not possible to enter the Cleopatra pool either. Hierapolis was impressive. Our guide, Mr. Harun, was caring and communicative. If we come again, we will prefer the summer months...

• 

  Orlene Gerald

  Nov 2021

  Priene miletos didyma

  Priene miletos didyma tour went perfectly. İt was a different feeling to see didyma appollon temple accompanied by our guide yeliz. Do not forget to eat fish when you join the tour.

• 

  Anonymous

  Oct 2021

  Pamukkale Tour

  Our experience with Harun touring Pamukkale was fantastic, he was engaging and had good energy and was very knowledgeable about the history of the region. Pamukkale was exceptional and beautiful, we dipped ourselves in the thermal pools and took lots of great shots and also swam in Cleopatras pool. Harun was proactive in helping us take some good photos for memories and we had more than enough time to have a worthwhile time. It was lots fun and the lunch was great, one of the best meals we had in Turkey by far.

• 

  Kris

  Oct 2021

  Castle tour company

  5 star. Wonderful tour group. We had a private tour that picked us up in Bodrum and took us to Ephesus, Virgin Mary house. Tour guide excellent and very knowledgeable. Driver excellent.

FAQs

• How to meet my tour guide?

  Your tour guide/staff will be waiting at pick up points such as your hotels’ lobby/main gate, a specific point etc. according to timing which you were given before tour date.

• Can I state the departure time for my tour?

  Of course! We also operate tours on private basis, so you can customize the departure time, if it is a private service.

• Can I choose the sights to visit on my own?

  On private tours. You can choose the sights and museums along with all sort of criteria you like by your agent according to content of service.

• How to buy museum tickets?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• Am I traveling with a group on the tour?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• How about the transportation?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• How do I pay?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• What is the language of group tours?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• What type of restaurants do you use?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• How to pay for my services?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• Am I traveling with a group?

  If the museum tickets are included in your tour, you do not need to buy it as extra. But if the museum ticket/s is/are not included in your tour, still no need to buy tickets in advance, during the tour your tour guide will help you to purchase them. Official tour guides have priority at museum ticket offices.

• Are any Vaccinations Required For tourist entering Turkey?

  There are no vaccination requirements for any international traveller. The World Health Organization web site, www.who.org, provides vaccination certificate requirements by country, geographic distributions of potential health hazards to travellers.

• Can We Choose our Hotels?

  Yes, you can. All you have to do is just letting us know what hotels you would like to stay in while your agent creates your itinerary.

• Do I Have to Pay Full Amount To Book A Package Tours?

  No. You will need to pay %50 of the total amount of your package tour in order to complete your booking. You will be required to pay the rest of the amount 30 days before your arrival day in Turkey.

• Do I need a Visa To Turkey?

  Citizens of most of countries must have a visa to enter Turkey. U.S. citizens may obtain a visa upon entry into Turkey or in prior to departure from one of the five Turkish Consulates in the United States. Please find your state in the Turkish Consulates Jurisdiction (https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en).

• How Can I Travel in Turkey?

  By Plane Virtually every major city in Turkey has air service and Turkish Airlines offers nationwide services. Most flights connect through Istanbul or Ankara, both of which have domestic and international terminals. You can check Turkish Airlines.

• How Should Visitors Dress in Turkey?

  Casual wear is appropriate for most tour excursions. Women wear pants or skirts, but when visiting mosques it is recommended that they cover their heads with a scarf and both sexes should not wear shorts out of respects for religious customs.

• Is it Safe to Travel in Turkey?

  Turkey is one of the safest countries in the world in which to travel, and its crime rate is low in comparison to many Western European countries. Interpol ranked Turkey as the safest holiday destination in Europe for travelers. Naturally, we recommend.

• Should I exchange money before I go to Turkey?

  The highly favourable exchange rate makes travel to Turkey extremely affordable. Most banks in the U.S. do not have Turkish Lira. However, Turkish currency is easily obtainable upon arrival in Turkey at any exchange office or bank.

• What are the departure dates of your tours?

  There is no specific date! You can just pick-up your own dates to depart your package tour! In another word, our tours depart every day all year-round.

• What is a Turkish bath (Hamam)?

  Communal baths were used in Roman and Byzantine times, but as the name Turkish Bath suggests, they played a significant role in Ottoman culture. At a time when the concept of cleanliness was not yet accepted in Europe.

• Where can I find information on Festivals, Fairs and other Events in Turkey?

  There are more than 100 festivals in Turkey every year. In addition to the local festivals organized in almost every city of the country, international culture and art festivals are held in major cities including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Antalya.

Good to Know

• Currency Regulation

  Limits
  There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that may be brought into Turkey, but not more than 5 5,000 worth of Turkish currency may be brought into or taken out of the country.

• Exchange Slips

  The exchange slips for the conversion of foreign currency into Turkish lira should be kept, since you may be required to show these when reconverting your Turkish lira back into foreign currency, and when taking souvenirs out of the country (to prove that they have been purchased with legally exchanged foreign currency).

• Customs Regulations

  On Entry
  The following items may be brought into the country duty free personal effects of the tourist.
  
  One TV, one color pocket TV (maximum 16 cm screen), one TV-tape-radio combination, one video recording camera and 5 video cassettes (blank); 5 records, 5 tape cassettes or compact discs, one video player, cine-projector (8 mm) and 10 rolls of film (blank), one slide projector, one pocket computer (maximum main memory capacity Ram 128k. Byte), electronic playing devices (without cassette – keyboard), one transistor radio and portable radio – tape player (its specification to be determined by the Ministry of Finance and Customs), one Walkman or pocket tape recorder, one portable compact disc player, binoculars (one pair, except night binoculars), harmonica, mandolin, flageolet, flute, guitar, and accordion (only one of each type, maximum 3 musical instruments). personal sports equipment, necessary medical items, bicycle, baby buggy, toys, 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars. 200 grams of tobacco and 200 cigarette papers, or 50 grams of chewing tobacco or 200 grams of pipe tobacco, or 200 grams of snuff (In addition to the above allowances, it is possible to purchase 400 cigarettes, 100 cigars, and 500 grams of pipe tobacco from the Turkish Duty Free Shops upon entering the country), 1.5kg. coffee, 1.5kg. instant coffee, 500 grams of tea, 1 kilo chocolate and 1 kilo sweets, 5 (100 cc) or 7 (70 cc) bottles of wines and/or spirits, five bottles of perfume (120 ml max. each), one portable typewriter, one camera with 5 rolls of film, first aid, and spare parts for the car, other items necessary during the journey.
  
  Valuable items and all items with a value of over $ 15,000 must be registered in the owner’s passport upon entering Turkey, for control upon exit.
  
  Antiques brought into the country must be registered in the owner’s passport to avoid difficulties on exit.
  
  Sharp instruments (including camping knives) and weapons may not be brought into the country without special permission.
  
  The bringing into the country, trade, and consumption of marijuana and all other narcotics is strictly forbidden and subject to heavy punishment.
  
  Gifts, not exceeding 500 DM in value and not for trading purposes, may be brought into the country duty free. In addition, gifts not exceeding 500 OM in value may be posted to Turkey duty free, if the date stamped by the sending post office falls one month before, or one month after the following holidays: Seker Bayrami, Kurban Bayrami, Christmas, and New Year’s.
  
  Note
  Cellular Telephones entering the country must be accompanied by a certification form showing ownership. Ownership must be documented in the passport of the owner and will be checked on entry and exit. For more information contact the Ministry of transportation, General Directorate at Tel: (312) 212 35 72 – 212 60 10 (10 lines), Fax: (312) 221 32 26 or write to Ulastirma Bakanligi Telsiz Gn. Md. Emek – Ankara.
  
  On Exit
  Gifts and souvenirs: for a new carpet, a proof of purchase; for old items, a certificate from a directorate of a museum is necessary. Exporting antiques from Turkey is forbidden.
  
  Valuable personal items can only be taken out of the country providing they have been registered in the owner’s passport upon entry, or providing they can show they have been purchased with legally exchanged currency.
  
  Minerals may only be exported from the country with a special document obtained from the MTA (General Directorate of Mining Exploration and Research). Etudler Dairesi 06520, Ankara. Phone: +90 312 287 3430 /1622, Fax: +90 312 285 4271
  
  Tax Refund
  You Can Receive a Tax Refund for the Goods You Purchased In Turkey! Refunds will be made to travelers who do not reside in Turkey. All goods (including food and drinks) are included in the refunds with the exclusion of services rendered. The minimum amount of purchase that qualifies for refund is 5.000.000 TL. Retailers that qualify for tax refunds must be “authorized for refund.” These retailers must display a permit received from their respective tax office.
  
  The retailer will make four copies of the receipt for your refund, three of which will be received by the purchaser. If photocopies of the receipt are received the retailer must sign and stamp the copies to validate them. If you prefer the refund to be made by check, a Tax-free Shopping Check for the amount to be refunded to the customer must be given along with the receipt.
  
  For the purchaser to benefit from this exemption he must leave the country within three months with the goods purchased showing them to Turkish customs officials along with the appropriate receipts and! or check.
  
  There are four ways to receive your refund:
  If the retailer gives you a check it can be cashed at a bank in the customs area at the airport. If it is not possible to cash the check upon departure or if you do not wish to cash it then, .e customer must, within one month, send a copy of the receipt showing that the goods have left the country to the retailer who will, within ten days upon receiving the receipt, send a bank transfer to the purchaser’s hank or address.
  
  If the certified receipt and check are brought back to the retailer on a subsequent visit thin one-month of the date of customs certification, the refund can be made directly to the purchaser. Retailers may directly refund the amount to trustworthy customers upon purchase. The refund may be made by the organization of those companies that are authorized to make tax refunds.
  
  Additional information:
  Ministry of Finance and Tax Dept. General Directorate, (Maliye Bakanligi, Gelirler Genel Mudurlugu) KDV Subesi 06100, Ulus – Ankara Phone: +90 312 310 3880 / 725 – 728 – 735, Fax: +90 312 311 4510
  
  Tourist Health
  Turkish Tourist Health Society (Turizm Sagligi Dernegi-Hacettepe Üniversitesi Tip Fakültesi Plastik ve Rekonstrüktif Cerrahi Ana Bilim Dali, Sihhiye 06100 ANKARA
  
  Phone:
  +90 312 311 9393 – 310 98 08) performs the functions below, to provide the travelers in the entire country, mainly in the touristic regions, with proper health care:
  - to secure food hygiene
  - to prevent environmental pollution
  - to ensure hygiene and healthy working-conditions in touristic establishments.
  
  Health Regulations for Pets
  For those who wish to bring domestic animals into the country the following are required:
  - Pets have to be 3 months and older
  - An International Certificate of Health issued within 15 days before the travel
  - The Identification Card
  - Vaccination Card
  
  Note
  If you have an official certificate, you may bring one cat, one bird, one dog and 10 aquarium fish into the country. To get information for the importation of pets, please see the Consular Services.

• Motorist Rules

  General
  Those who wish to enter the country with their vans, minibuses, automobiles, station wagons, bicycles, motorcycles, motorbikes, sidecars, buses, motor coaches, trailers, caravans or other transport vehicles, will have to provide the following documentations:
  
  - Passport.
  - International driving license.
  - Car license (document where all details related to the car and the owner’s name are registered). If it is somebody else’s vehicle a power of attorney should be provided.
  - International green card (Insurance card). The TR sign should be visible.
  - Transit book “Carnet de passage” (for those who want to proceed to the Middle East).
  
  Period
  The vehicle can be brought into Turkey for up to 6 Months. The owner should declare on the opposite form, the date of departure at the border gate and should absolutely ve the country at the date declared. If for any important reason the staying period has to be ended, it is necessary to apply to;
  The Turkish Touring and Automobile Club (Türkiye Turing ve Otomobil Kurumu) 1. Sanayi Sitesi Yani, 4.Levent, Istanbul, Phone: +90 212 282 8140 (7 lines).
  The General Directorate of Customs (Gümrükler Genel Müdürlügü), Ulus Ankara Phone:
  +90 312 310 3880, 310 3818, Fax: +90 312 311 1346, before the end of the period declared.
  
  In Case of Accident
  The accident should be reported to the police or gendarme. That report has to be certified by the nearest local authority. The owner should apply to the customs authority with his passport and report.
  
  If the vehicle can be repaired, it is necessary to inform the customs authority first and take the vehicle to a garage. If the vehicle is not repairable and if the owner wishes to leave the country without his vehicle, he has to deliver it to the nearest customs office, and the registration of his vehicle on his passport will be cancelled. (Only after the cancellation can the owner of the vehicle leave the country.)
  
  Following an accident, you can phone:
  - Trafik Polisi (Traffic Police), Phone: 154
  - Jandarma (Gendarme), Phone: 156
  - For more information, contact the Touring and Automobile Association of Turkey.
  
  Formalities for Private Yacht Owners
  Yachts require a Transit Log and may remain in Turkish waters for up to two years maintenance or for wintering. There are certain ports licensed by the Ministry of Tourist the storage of yachts for a period of two to five years. For further information and regulations contact the marina concerned.
  
  Upon arriving in Turkish waters, yachts should immediately go for control of the ship to the nearest port of entry which are as follows: Iskenderun, Botas (Adana), Mersin, Tasucu, Anamur, Alanya, Antalya, Kemer, Finike, Kas, Fethiye, Marmaris, Datça, Bodrum, Güllük Didim, Kusadasi, Çesme, Izmir, Dikili, Ayvalik, Akçay, Çanakkale, Bandirma, Tekirdag, Istanbul, Zonguldak, Sinop, Samsun, Ordu, Giresun, Trabzon, Rize, Hopa.
  
  Port Formalities
  All the required information concerning the yacht, yachtsmen, members, intended route, passports, customs declarations, health clearance, and any obligatory matters must be entered in the Transit Log.
  
  The Transit Log is to be completed by the captain of a yacht under a foreign flag or amateur sailor acting as captain of the vessel.
  The Transit Log is completed upon first entering a Turkish port and, generally, it is necessary to contact the Harbor Authority before leaving. For information on tax-free fuel, contact the Marina Harbor Office.
  
  Note
  If you have a certificate from the Tourism Ministry Yacht Harbor, you may take petrol at no charge, provided you possess an official marina license.

• Formalities for Private Plane Owners

  General
  When coming to Turkey, international air routes should be followed. Private planes may stay for up to three months in Turkey with tourist status, but for longer periods permission should be obtained from;
  The General Directorate of Customs (Gümrükler Genel Müdürlügü), Ulus Ankara
  
  Phone:
  +90 312 310 3880, 310 3818, Fax: +90 312 311 1346
  The airports of Ankara, Adana, Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Trabzon and Dalaman have ties for private planes. It is also possible to hire planes and helicopters in Turkey.
  
  For further information, apply to:
  The Civil Aviation Department of the Ministry of Transport (Ulastirma Bakanligi, Havacilik Gen. Müd.). Bosna-Hersek Cad., No: 5 – 06338 – Emek, Ankara.
  
  Phone:
  +90 312 212 6730, Fax: +90 312 2124684, TIx : 44659 Ga-tr.
  
  Underwater Diving
  Diving for purposes of sport, with proper equipment and in non-restricted areas, is permitted. Foreign divers should have official documentation of their specifics and training and must be accompanied, when diving, by a licensed Turkish guide.
  
  The limit for diving with diving gear is 30 meters. For educational purposes, this limit is extended to 42 meters. Dives exceeding 30 meters must be carried out with proper diving and medical equipment. In order to protect Turkish archaeological and cultural values. It is strictly forbidden to transport Turkish antiquities or natural specimens.

• Postal System

  Turkish post-offices are easily recognized by their black PTT letters on a yellow background. Major post offices are open from 8:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m., Monday/Saturday, and 9:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m., Sunday. Small post-offices have the same hours as the government offices.
  
  Postal charges vary for different services depending on destination. Post restante letters should be addressed “postrestant” to the central post-office Merkez Postanesi, in the town of your choice. You have to show your identification card to collect your letters.
  
  All PTT branches have the facilities to exchange money at the current international exchange rates, as well as international postal orders and travelers’ cheques. There is also an express postal service (APS) operating to 90 countries for letters , documents and small packages. A wide variety of special stamps are available in all PTT centers for philatelists.
  
  To phone from PTT telephone booths, which are extensively found in all areas; telephone cards , and tokens (“;jeton”) in three sizes are used. Local, inter-city and international calls can be made from all PTT offices. Besides these main offices there are also mobile PTT services in the touristic areas. For the area codes of major cities and touristic areas in Turkey, please see the “Area Codes” list. Foreign countries area codes are indicated in the International Telephone Codes list.
  
  Some important service numbers are;
  - 155 Police
  - 112 Emergency
  - 110 Fire
  - 118 Unknown Numbers
  - 161 PTT Information.

• Working Hours

  Government Offices
  Monday-Friday (8:30-12:30), (13:30-17:30)
  Saturday-Sunday (closed)
  
  Banks
  Monday-Friday (8:30-12-00), (13:30-17:00)
  Saturday-Sunday (closed)
  
  Shops
  Monday-Saturday (9:30-13:00), (14:00-19:00)
  Sunday (closed)
  
  Istanbul Covered Market:
  Monday-Saturday (8:00-19:00)
  Sunday (closed)
  
  During summer months, the government offices and many other establishments in the Aegean and Mediterranean Regions are closed in the afternoon. These fixed summer hours are determined by the governing bodies of the provinces.

• Other Practical Information

  Local time: GMT+3 hours (April-September) GMT+2 hours (October-March)
  
  Time Differences:
  Argentina -5, France -1, Netherlands -1, Australia +8, Germany -1, Saudi Arabia+1, Austria -1, Greece 0, Sweden -1, Egypt 0, Italy -1, Switzerland -1, England -2, Japan +7, Spain -1, USA -7 (EST) -10 (WEST)
  
  *These time differences are for the period October-March; however, they may show variances according to each country’s own time-saving adjustments.
  
  Petrol: Super (premium) – Unleaded (at some places). Normal (regular) – Diesel.
  
  Electricity: 220 volts AC/50 Hz. all over Turkey. (Industrial:380 V) Plug: European round/ 2-prong plug.
  
  Water: Although tap water is safe to drink since it is chlorinated, it is recommended to get advice from the conceded authorities of the places resided.
  
  Weights and Measures:
  1 inch = 2.54 centimeters , 1 centimeter = 0.3937 inches
  1 yard = 0,9144 meters, 1 meter = 1.0936 yards
  1 mile = 1,6093 kilometers, 1 kilometer = 0.6214 miles
  1 pound = 0,4536 kilograms, 1 kilogram = 2.2046 pounds
  Area: 1 acres = 0,4047 Hectares, 1 hectare = 2.471 acres
  
  Capacity:
  1 UK gallon = 4.546 liters, 1 liter = 0.2199 UK gallons
  1 US gallon = 3.7831 liters, 1 liter = 0.2643 US gallons
  
  Newspapers and Magazines:
  Foreign newspapers and magazines are available in big cities and tourist areas. Also there is a Turkish daily newspaper, Daily News, published in English.
  
  Tipping:
  At various establishments like hotels, restaurants, Turkish baths, barbers and hairdressers, tipping at a rate of 5%-15% of the total is common. Taxi and “dolmus” drivers on the other hand, do not expect tips or even rounded fares.
  
  Visiting a mosque:
  Five times a day, the “müezzin” calls the faithful to prayer in the mosque. Before entering a mosque, Muslims wash themselves and remove their shoes. Foreign visitors should also remove their shoes and show the respect they would any other house of worship and avoid visiting the mosque during prayer time. Women should cover their heads and arms, and not wear miniskirts. Men should not wear shorts. (In certain famous mosques, overalls are provided for those not suitably dressed.)

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