Before You Depart

FLIGHT INFORMATION

Our flights to Türkiye and back are on the following airlines with the corresponding schedules. We recommend that you arrive at the airport at least 3 ½ hours before the scheduled departure. If you are planning a connecting flight, please make sure to allow sufficient time for clearing immigration and customs. Flight schedules are subject to change.

ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT

Airlines do not assign seats in advance for group fares – seat assignments are arranged upon check-in at the airport. smarTours is not involved with seat assignments. If you require a specific seat due to a medical condition, please obtain a doctor’s note you can present to the airline at check-in.

LAND-ONLY TRAVELERS

International flights to/from the U.S. are not included. Land-only travelers are responsible for arranging entry and exit flights, as well as their arrival and departure transfers. smarTours cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by air schedule changes and delays. Unused land services are non-refundable.

Generally, check-in at hotels is not before 4:00 PM and check-out is prior to 12:00 PM. If arriving early or departing late, hotels usually allow travelers to store their luggage in the luggage room.

PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION

Travelers must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel. A visa is required for U.S. passport holders. Travelers can apply for an e-Visa with the Turkish government directly or use a visa processing service like CIBT or sherpaº to facilitate the process. If you have questions, you may reach the Turkish Consulate General at (888) 566-7656. Before your trip, review travel requirements and restrictions by country including passport and visa requirements. You can also learn more about passport and visa services. Please remember that it is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.

TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS

Final instructions, documents, and travel tips will be emailed to you 10–14 days before the scheduled start of your tour. If you have not received your final documents, please check your spam folder or contact smarTours.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Immunizations are not currently required, however, you may wish to consult your personal physician or local health authorities for their suggestions. The CDC recommends you stay up to date on routine vaccinations, and consult your physician at least one month prior to travel. Learn more about the CDC’s destination-specific recommendations.

CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY

The official currency in Türkiye is the lira (₺). Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard, however, for “street shopping” you will need local currency. ATMs can be found in major cities and will generally accept cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks. There are also currency exchange locations in major cities that can be used to exchange U.S. dollars for Turkish lira. Some hotels will be able to exchange cash to local currency. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations.

CLIMATE

You may expect daytime high temperatures in the 50’s to 60’s in March & November, 60’s to 70’s in April & October and 70’s to 80’s May & September.

Electricity

Türkiye operates on 230 volts/50 Hz and uses plug types C & F. Learn more about plug types, adapters, and converters.

BAGGAGE

Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage and one carry-on piece. Please check with the airline for the maximum weight and size for luggage. We recommend that you do not over-pack and that you take a variety of separates with climate and comfort in mind.