How to travel to Turkey from Pakistan is a popular topic among travelers who dream of experiencing Turkish culture, food, and history. Turkey offers everything from scenic coastlines to majestic mosques, bustling bazaars, and magical hot air balloon rides. If you’re planning your trip from Pakistan, this detailed guide will walk you through every step—from visa requirements and budget tips to must-visit places and travel hacks.
Why Turkey Is the Perfect International Destination for Pakistanis
Turkey stands at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and blends tradition with modernity in the most beautiful way. Whether you’re a first-time international traveler or a seasoned explorer, here’s why Turkey should be at the top of your travel list:
-
Visa process is manageable for Pakistani passport holders.
-
Cultural similarities make Pakistani travelers feel welcomed.
-
Halal food is easily available, making it easy for Muslim travelers.
-
Affordable and accessible, especially with budget airlines and group tours.
Step-by-Step Visa Guide: How to Get a Turkish Visa from Pakistan
Understanding the visa process is a vital part of how to travel to Turkey from Pakistan. Here’s a complete overview.
e-Visa for Eligible Travelers
If you have a valid visa or residence permit from the USA, UK, Ireland, or Schengen area, you can apply online for an e-Visa at https://www.evisa.gov.tr. The application process is fast and usually takes 24 hours.
Sticker Visa (Tourist Visa)
If you don’t qualify for an e-Visa, you must apply for a Sticker Visa through the Turkish embassy or consulate in Pakistan.
Documents Required:
-
Original passport (valid for at least 6 months)
-
Two recent photographs
-
Bank statement for last 3-6 months
-
Hotel reservation and flight booking
-
Travel insurance (mandatory)
-
Visa application form
-
Cover letter describing travel purpose
Visa Fees and Timelines
-
Visa Fee: Approximately PKR 12,000 to 18,000
-
Processing Time: 10 to 15 working days
-
Visa Validity: Up to 90 days (tourist visa)
Best Time to Visit: When Should You Travel to Turkey?
Timing is key when planning how to travel to Turkey from Pakistan. Weather and travel costs can vary by season.
Spring (April to June)
-
Perfect weather for sightseeing
-
Blooming landscapes and tulip festivals
Summer (July to August)
-
Warm weather ideal for beach lovers
-
Busy tourist season; prices are higher
Autumn (September to November)
-
Mild climate and fewer tourists
-
Cheaper accommodation and flights
Winter (December to February)
-
Ideal for snow sports
-
Visit Cappadocia for magical winter hot air balloon rides
Detailed Travel Budget: What Will a Trip to Turkey Cost?
Planning a budget is crucial if you’re figuring out how to travel to Turkey from Pakistan. Here’s a complete expense breakdown:
Airfare from Pakistan to Turkey
-
Round Trip Ticket: PKR 120,000 to PKR 180,000
-
Airlines to check: Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Pegasus
Accommodation Options
Type | Price (per night) | Examples |
---|---|---|
Hostels | PKR 3,000–6,000 | Stay Inn, Cheers Hostel |
Mid-range Hotels | PKR 7,000–12,000 | Avicenna Hotel, Hotel Zurich Istanbul |
Luxury Hotels | PKR 20,000+ | Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton |
Tip: Use Booking.com or Airbnb for better deals and local stays.
Food and Drinks
-
Street Food (Simit, Kebabs): PKR 200–600
-
Mid-range Restaurants: PKR 800–1,500
-
Fancy Dining: PKR 3,000+
Try local favorites like Iskender Kebab, Lahmacun, and Turkish Tea.
Transportation
-
IstanbulKart for public transit: PKR 800
-
Bus/Metro fare: PKR 100–150 per trip
-
Domestic flights: PKR 10,000–20,000
Entry Tickets & Attractions
-
Hagia Sophia: Free (mosque)
-
Topkapi Palace: PKR 1,000+
-
Bosphorus Cruise: PKR 2,000–5,000
-
Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia: PKR 35,000–50,000
Total Estimated Budget for 7 Days
Expense | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Flight | PKR 150,000 |
Stay | PKR 50,000 |
Food | PKR 15,000 |
Transport | PKR 10,000 |
Activities | PKR 25,000 |
Total | PKR 250,000 – 300,000 |
Top Turkish Cities and What to See There
Istanbul – The City of Two Continents
-
Hagia Sophia
-
Blue Mosque
-
Grand Bazaar
-
Galata Tower
-
Bosphorus Bridge
Tip: Spend at least 3 days here to enjoy both the Asian and European sides.
Cappadocia – Land of Fairy Chimneys
-
Hot air balloon ride at sunrise
-
Göreme Open Air Museum
-
Underground cities (Derinkuyu, Kaymakli)
Antalya – Beach, Sun, and Ancient Ruins
-
Lara and Konyaaltı Beach
-
Düden Waterfalls
-
Hadrian’s Gate
-
Old Town (Kaleiçi)
Pamukkale – The Cotton Castle
-
White travertine terraces
-
Ancient city of Hierapolis
-
Thermal hot springs
Shopping in Turkey: Where and What to Buy
Grand Bazaar (Istanbul)
-
Over 4,000 shops
-
Jewelry, lamps, textiles, and souvenirs
Spice Bazaar
-
Spices, teas, dried fruits, and sweets
What to Buy
-
Turkish Delight (Lokum)
-
Handmade carpets
-
Leather goods
-
Evil eye souvenirs (Nazar)
Tip: Always bargain – it’s part of the culture!
Staying Connected: SIM Cards, Wi-Fi, and Apps
Best SIM Cards
-
Turkcell
-
Vodafone Turkey
-
Türk Telekom
Expect to pay PKR 2,000–3,000 for 10–15GB internet.
Useful Apps
-
Google Maps
-
BiTaksi (for taxis)
-
Yemeksepeti (for food delivery)
-
Google Translate (for language help)
Halal Food and Dining in Turkey
One of the benefits of figuring out how to travel to Turkey from Pakistan is knowing you’ll find halal food almost everywhere.
Must-Try Turkish Foods
-
Döner Kebab
-
Menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs)
-
Pide (Turkish pizza)
-
Turkish Tea and Coffee
-
Baklava
You’ll find halal signs at most restaurants, and pork is rarely served.
Transport Tips: Getting Around Like a Local
IstanbulKart – Your Key to the City
-
Works for metro, tram, buses, and ferries
-
Can be recharged easily
Intercity Travel
-
Domestic flights are fast and affordable
-
Bus services (Metro Turizm, Pamukkale) are reliable
-
Trains are scenic but slower
Travel Safety and Tips for Pakistani Tourists
Safety Tips
-
Turkey is safe for tourists
-
Avoid large political gatherings or protests
-
Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas
Respect Local Customs
-
Dress modestly when visiting mosques
-
Remove shoes before entering mosques
-
Learn a few Turkish greetings
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling to Turkey
-
Booking flights too late – early planning saves money.
-
Not carrying travel insurance – it’s required and useful.
-
Ignoring local laws and customs – always respect the culture.
-
Exchanging currency at airports – you’ll get better rates in the city.
Summary: Final Thoughts on How to Travel to Turkey from Pakistan
If you’ve been wondering how to travel to Turkey from Pakistan, this guide has hopefully answered all your questions. From managing your visa and planning your budget to choosing the right time to go and the cities to explore, traveling to Turkey is an achievable and memorable experience for Pakistani tourists.
With its blend of history, culture, food, and natural beauty, Turkey promises a journey like no other. Start early, plan wisely, and get ready to explore a country that welcomes you with open arms and endless discoveries.
For professional PR coverage of your travel experiences, MediaBites—the best PR agency in Pakistan—can help amplify your journey to Turkey.