Travel to Seven Churches of Asia Minor
Explore the Seven Churches of Asia Minor in Turkey. Discover Sardis, Smyrna, Ephesus, Laodicea, Pergamon, Philadelphia, and Thyateira. Uncover ancient history and religious significance.
Highlights
- Pamukkale; Hierapolis, Laodicea-Overnight in Pamukkale
- Philadelphia(Alasehir), Sardis, Thyatira, Overnight in Bergama
- Pergamum; Izmir-Overnight in Kusadasi
- Ephesus Ancient City; The House of Virgin Mary
Travel to Seven Churches of Asia Minor
Explore the Seven Churches of Asia Minor in Turkey. Discover Sardis, Smyrna, Ephesus, Laodicea, Pergamon, Philadelphia, and Thyateira. Uncover ancient history and religious significance.
Itinerary
*DAY 01* -Pick from Bodrum Hotels, Bodrum Cruise Port or Bodrum Airport -Proceed Pamukkale(265 km/3.30 hours) -Hierapolis Ancient Site -Cleopatra's Pool -White Calcium Rocks and Pools -Laodicea -Overnight Pamukkale *DAY 02* -Pick up from Pamukkale Hotel to go Manisa(196 km/2.40 hours) -Philadelphia(Alasehir) -Sardis -Thyatira -Overnight Bergama *DAY 03* -Pick up from Bergama Hotels to Pergamon Ancient City -Acropolis -Asceplion -Overnight Kusadasi *DAY 04* -Pick up from Kusadasi Hotel to go Ephesus (17 km/25 mins) -Ephesus Ancient City -The House of Virgin Mary -The Temple of Artemis -Transfer to the airport or drive back to Kusadasi,Bodrum.. etc
- Starting Points: Turkey/Mugla: Bodrum
- Day 1 Pamukkale: Hierapolis Ancient Site, Cleopatra's Pool, White Calcium Rocks and Pools, Laodicea Hierapolis Ancient Site, Cleopatra's Pool, White Calcium Rocks and Pools, Laodicea
Embark on a memorable journey to Pamukkale, known as the "Cotton Castle," where thermal springs have attracted visitors for over 23 centuries. The unique snow-white cliffs, shaped by calcium deposits, create a stunning landscape. According to legend, the formations resemble solidified cotton left to dry by giants. The mineral-rich water flows down the mountainside, forming cascades of stalactites and collecting in milky pools below. Don't miss the opportunity to take a dip in Cleopatra's Pool, renowned for its healing properties and ancient Roman columns at the bottom. Pamukkale also offers the chance to explore the ancient city of Hierapolis and its intriguing museums. Afterward, continue your journey to the remarkable site of Laodicea, once a prosperous city known for its commercial prosperity and renowned medical school. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including a stadium, amphitheatre, odeon, and aqueduct. As the day concludes, relax and unwind at your hotel in Pamukkale for an overnight stay.
- Day 2 Manisa: Philadelphia(Alasehir), Sardis, Thyatira Philadelphia(Alasehir), Sardis, Thyatira
Today marks the beginning of a new adventure as we set out to explore the enchanting Philadelphia, the sixth church among the Seven Churches of Asia Minor. Perched on the acropolis, this ancient city was renowned for its vineyards, wines, and hot springs, although it faced the constant threat of earthquakes due to its volcanic location. Despite a devastating earthquake in 17 AD, the city was rebuilt with the support of the Roman emperor, and its captivating ruins still stand today. After Philadelphia, our journey continues to the historic city of Sardis, once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia and an important city in the Persian Empire. Sardis boasted military strength, strategic location, and control over the fertile plain of the Hermus. Here, you will witness the remains of a small apsidal church and an intact church adjacent to the impressive Temple of Artemis. These remarkable structures offer glimpses into the early Christian presence in the region. Lastly, we will explore Thyatira, known for its worship of Greek deities and its dedication to Apollo. Among the ruins, you will discover a well-preserved basilica dating back to the 5th century AD, showcasing columns and arches from the 4th century AD. Numerous Greek inscriptions and ancient coins have been unearthed here, evidence of the city's bustling bronze smithing and woodworking industries. As the day draws to a close, we will make our way to Pergamon, where you will spend the night, eagerly anticipating the continuation of our Seven Churches adventure tomorrow.
- Day 3 Pergamum: Acropolis, Asceplion Acropolis, Asceplion
Conclude your tour today with a visit to Pergamum, where you will have the opportunity to delve into its extraordinary discoveries. Pergamum holds a special place in history as the birthplace of remarkable inventions, such as the first-ever psychiatric hospital, and as the home of the renowned Pergamum Library, which once housed an impressive collection of over 200,000 ancient scripts. Begin your exploration at the Acropolis, divided into three distinct areas. Marvel at the architectural wonders of the Library, Gymnasium, and the Roman Temple of Trajan, a grand structure symbolizing the city's imperial cult. The Temple of Athena, designed to replicate the Acropolis in Athens, proudly displays its ruins and majestic columns. As you wander, you will encounter the Theatre, nestled into the hillside and capable of accommodating up to 10,000 spectators across its 80 seating levels. Prepare to be captivated by other captivating sites in Pergamum, including the Temple of Dionysus and the magnificent Altar of Zeus. After a satisfying lunch, continue your journey to the fascinating Asclepion, renowned as the most famous healing center in the ancient world. Experience the spiritual and therapeutic powers of its thermal springs, and explore the Propylon, a monumental gateway leading to a courtyard surrounded by stoas. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the Library and Theatre, both of which display astonishing ruins. As you conclude your exploration of Pergamum and Asclepion, return to the tour bus and make your way to Izmir, where you will have the privilege of visiting the remarkable St. Polycarp Church. This ancient church, known as the oldest in Izmir, holds deep historical significance as the final resting place of Saint Polycarp, the bishop of Smyrna and a convert of John the Apostle. Legend tells of his martyrdom, where the flames miraculously refused to touch his holy body. The church's exquisite exterior and interior detailing exude a spiritual aura that will leave you fascinated. With St. Polycarp Church as your last stop for today, journey to the resort town of Kusadasi for a well-deserved rest, preparing for tomorrow's exploration of the world-famous ancient city of Ephesus.
- Day 4 Ephesus: Archaeological Site, The House of Virgin Mary, The Temple of Artemis Archaeological Site, The House of Virgin Mary, The Temple of Artemis
Prepare for an unforgettable exploration of Ephesus, where you will witness its incredible wonders. One of the highlights is the Artemis Temple, also known as the Temple of Diana, an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Regarded as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, its ruins still captivate visitors today. Moving on from the Artemis Temple, you will encounter the Odeon, a small covered theater constructed by Vedius Antonius around 150 AD. This venue hosted plays and small concerts, accommodating approximately 1,500 spectators. The magnificent Great Theatre awaits you next, situated on the slope of Panayir Hill, opposite the main harbor street. Initially built during the Hellenistic Period, it was later expanded during the Roman Period to its current grand capacity of 25,000 spectators, making it the largest theater in Anatolia. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the stunning Celsius Library, a beautifully preserved structure that served as a monumental tomb for Gaius Julius (Celsus Polemaeanus). The library's remarkable preservation will leave you in awe. Ephesus also offers other remarkable sites to explore, including the Agora, Trajan Fountain, Domitianus Temple, and the Roman Latrines. After an eventful tour of the city, enjoy a delightful lunch indulging in authentic Turkish cuisine. The journey continues as we make our way to the sacred House of Virgin Mary. Also known as Meryem Ana or Meryem Ana Evi by the locals, this Catholic and Muslim shrine is located on Mt. Koressos. According to belief, Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken to this stone house by Saint John and spent her final years there. The modest yet sacred chapel contains a single large room with an altar and a prominent statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Just outside the house, you will find a wishing/prayer wall where visitors can write their wishes or prayers on ribbons, cloth, or paper and affix them to the wall. It's an opportunity to seek blessings and hope for your desires to be fulfilled.
- End Points: Turkey/Izmir; Mugla: Bodrum
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Informations
- What's Included
• Private Professional Licenced Tour Guide.
• Private Deluxe A/C VIP Vehicle.
• Parking Fees.
• Local Taxes.
• Pick up from your hotel or meeting point.
• Drop off to your hotel or meeting point.
- What's Excluded
• Entrance Fees.
• Gratuities to the guide and driver.
• Lunch & Drink.
• Personal expenses.
• Hotel Accommodations.
- Travel Tips
• We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and comfortable walking shoes.
• 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.
• For the Churches or mosques, a visit to these places require a respect. So proper dressing into such places is advised.
• You can get bottles of soft drinks, it can be scorching hot during the day.
• Hat, sunscreen and umbrella for the rainy or sunny days, especially days can be hot in Archaeological sites.
• Good quality sunglasses are advised and photo-chromatic lenses for those who wear spectacles.
• Cameras (but tripods are not allowed in Turkish Museums and sites).
- Note
• The wheelchair is accessible, therefore just request from us when you are booking your trip.
• You may pay the entrance fees by credit card or Turkish Liras. (The Museums charging only Turkish Liras and Credit cards.)
• This tour involves over a mile of walking on uneven, cobblestone surfaces.
• Restrooms are available at the entrance and the exit of Archaeological Sites.
• The tour document with details and confirmations will be e-mailed after your prebooking.
• This Tour is available all year round.
• Daily, a Private small group tour of Turkey.
• This tour operated with just your party and a guide/driver.
Tour Reminder!
You can create a reminder for yourself for this tour. We will send you a reminder e-mail/sms about this tour on the date you specify.
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FAQs
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Good to Know
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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).
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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.)
