Travel to Turkey from Malaysia: A Complete Guide for 2023

Are you dreaming of traveling to Turkey from Malaysia? If yes, then you are not alone. Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for Malaysian travelers, and for good reasons. Turkey is a country that offers something for everyone: stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, delicious cuisine, friendly people, and more. Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, marvel at the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, soak in the thermal pools of Pamukkale, or shop at the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul, you will never run out of things to do and see in Turkey.

But before you pack your bags and book your flight, there are some things you need to know and prepare for your trip to Turkey. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide on how to travel to Turkey from Malaysia in 2023. We will cover everything from travel restrictions and entry requirements due to COVID-19, to the best time to visit Turkey, to the top tourist attractions and activities in Turkey, to the public transport system in Turkey. By the end of this article, you will have all the information and tips you need to plan and enjoy your trip to Turkey.

So what are you waiting for? Let's get started!

The stunning Hagia Sophia Museum~

✅ Turkey travel restrictions

The first thing you need to know before traveling to Turkey from Malaysia is the current COVID-19 situation and travel restrictions in Turkey. As of October 2021, Turkey is open for tourism and welcomes travelers from all countries, including Malaysia. However, there are some entry requirements and health measures that you need to follow.

According to the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, here are the entry requirements for Malaysian travelers as of October 2021:

• You need to have a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours before your departure or a negative antigen test result taken within 48 hours before your departure. You need to submit your test result online before your flight and present a printout or a mobile screenshot of your test result at check-in and upon arrival.
• Alternatively, you can show proof of vaccination with a vaccine approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) or proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the last six months. You need to submit your proof online before your flight and present a printout or a mobile screenshot of your proof at check-in and upon arrival.
• You need to wear a face mask at all times during your flight and in public places in Turkey.
• You may be subject to random PCR testing upon arrival at no cost. If you test positive, you will be required to quarantine at a designated facility or hotel for 14 days at your own expense.

Please note that these entry requirements may change at any time depending on the COVID-19 situation in Turkey and Malaysia. Therefore, it is advisable that you check the latest updates and information from the official sources before your trip. You can also contact the Turkish Embassy in Kuala Lumpur or Trip.com for assistance.

🤔 Best time to travel to Turkey

The next thing you need to know before traveling to Turkey from Malaysia is the best time to visit Turkey. Turkey is a large country with diverse climates and weather conditions throughout the year. Depending on where you want to go and what you want to do in Turkey, different seasons or months may offer different advantages or disadvantages.

Generally speaking, here are some pros and cons of traveling in different seasons or months in Turkey:

Spring (March-May)

This is considered one of the best times to visit Turkey, especially for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The nature is blooming with flowers and greenery, creating beautiful scenery. The tourist crowds are moderate, so you can enjoy the attractions without too much hassle. However, spring can also be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers or cold snaps. You may also encounter some public holidays or festivals that may affect your travel plans, such as Ramadan or Labor Day.

Summer (June-August)

This is considered the peak season for tourism in Turkey, especially for beach lovers and sun seekers. The weather is hot and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The sea is warm and inviting, perfect for swimming and water sports. The tourist attractions are open and lively, with many events and activities happening. However, summer can also be crowded, expensive, and uncomfortable. You may face long queues, high prices, and limited availability for accommodation and transportation. You may also suffer from heat exhaustion or dehydration if you are not careful.

Autumn (September-November)

This is considered another good time to visit Turkey, especially for cultural and historical exploration. The weather is cool and comfortable, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The nature is changing colors with autumn foliage, creating stunning scenery. The tourist crowds are low, so you can enjoy the attractions without too much hassle. However, autumn can also be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers or cold snaps. You may also encounter some public holidays or festivals that may affect your travel plans, such as Eid al-Adha or Republic Day.

Winter (December-February)

This is considered the off-season for tourism in Turkey, especially for coastal areas and central Anatolia. The weather is cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C. The sea is chilly and rough, not suitable for swimming or water sports. Many tourist attractions are closed or have reduced hours of operation. However, winter can also be charming, cozy, and budget-friendly. You can enjoy the snow-covered landscapes, ski resorts, hot springs, and winter festivals in Turkey. You can also find cheaper flights, accommodation, and tours in Turkey.

Based on these pros and cons, the best time to travel to Turkey from Malaysia depends on your preferences, budget, activities, etc. For example, if you want to enjoy the beach and the sun, you may prefer summer. If you want to explore the cultural and historical sites, you may prefer spring or autumn. If you want to experience the winter wonderland, you may prefer winter.

However, no matter when you choose to visit Turkey, you can always find something amazing and memorable to do and see in Turkey. Turkey is a country that has something for every season and every traveler.

🤩 Tourist attractions in Turkey

The next thing you need to know before traveling to Turkey from Malaysia is the tourist attractions and destinations in Turkey. Turkey is a country that has a rich and diverse history and culture that spans thousands of years and civilizations. From ancient ruins and monuments to modern cities and museums, Turkey has a lot to offer for travelers who are interested in learning about its past and present.

Here are some of the main tourist attractions and destinations in Turkey that you should not miss:

Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest and most populous city in Turkey, as well as its cultural and economic center. Istanbul is also the only city in the world that straddles two continents: Europe and Asia. Istanbul is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Bosphorus Bridge. Istanbul is also a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a variety of experiences such as shopping, dining, nightlife, art, music, etc.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a region in central Anatolia that is known for its unique and surreal landscape of rock formations, valleys, caves, and fairy chimneys. Cappadocia is also home to many historical and cultural sites such as the Goreme Open Air Museum, the Kaymakli Underground City, the Uchisar Castle, etc. One of the most popular activities in Cappadocia is taking a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape at sunrise or sunset.

Ephesus

Ephesus is an ancient city that was once one of the most important and prosperous cities in the Roman Empire. Ephesus is famous for its well-preserved ruins and monuments such as the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), the Library of Celsus, the Theatre of Ephesus, etc. Ephesus is also a sacred site for Christians as it was where Saint Paul preached and where Saint John wrote his gospel.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is a natural wonder that consists of white terraces of travertine (a type of limestone) that are filled with mineral-rich thermal water. Pamukkale means "cotton castle" in Turkish and it looks like a giant cotton candy from afar. Pamukkale is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the ancient city of Hierapolis, which was a spa town that used the thermal water for healing purposes.

Antalya

Antalya is a coastal city that is located on the Mediterranean Sea. Antalya is a popular destination for beach lovers and sun seekers who want to enjoy the turquoise water, golden sand, and warm weather. Antalya is also a gateway to many other attractions such as the ancient city of Perge, the Aspendos Theatre, the Duden Waterfalls, etc.

These are just some of the tourist attractions and destinations in Turkey that you can visit during your trip. Of course, there are many more places and sights that you can explore and discover in Turkey. You can also customize your itinerary or route according to your interests, time, and budget.

The Goreme Open Air Museum is a super interesting landmark that you should definitely check out!~

🤩 What to do in Turkey

The next thing you need to know before traveling to Turkey from Malaysia is what to do in Turkey. Turkey is a country that offers a variety of fun and exciting things to do for different types of travelers. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, food, or relaxation, you will find something that suits your taste and mood in Turkey.

Here are some of the things that you can do in Turkey that are specific to Turkey or reflect its culture and identity:

Take a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia

One of the most unforgettable and magical experiences that you can have in Turkey is taking a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape of Cappadocia. You will feel like you are flying in a fairy tale as you soar over the rock formations, valleys, caves, and fairy chimneys. You can book your hot air balloon ride with us and choose from different packages and options that suit your needs and preferences.

Experience a Turkish bath

A Turkish bath or hammam is a traditional form of bathing and cleansing that involves steam, water, soap, and massage. A Turkish bath is not only good for your body and skin, but also for your mind and soul. It is a relaxing and rejuvenating way to pamper yourself and experience the Turkish culture. You can find many hammams in Turkey, especially in Istanbul, where you can choose from different types and styles of hammams.

Try Turkish cuisine

Turkish cuisine is one of the most diverse and delicious cuisines in the world. It reflects the influences of various cultures and regions that have shaped Turkey's history and identity. Turkish cuisine offers a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the must-try dishes include kebabs, baklava, borek, dolma, kofte, meze, etc. You can also try some of the local drinks such as ayran (a yogurt drink), raki (an anise-flavored liquor), or Turkish coffee or tea.

Visit a bazaar

A bazaar is a type of market that sells various goods such as clothes, jewelry, spices, souvenirs, etc. A bazaar is not only a place to shop, but also a place to experience the Turkish culture and lifestyle. You can bargain with the vendors, chat with the locals, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of the bazaar. One of the most famous bazaars in Turkey is the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, which is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.

Learn about Turkish history and culture

Turkey has a rich and diverse history and culture that spans thousands of years and civilizations. You can learn more about Turkey's history and culture by visiting its many museums, monuments, ruins, mosques, churches, palaces, etc. Some of the most notable ones include the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, the Ephesus Museum, the Anitkabir (the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk), etc. You can also join some cultural tours or activities that will give you a deeper insight into Turkey's traditions, customs, arts, music, etc.

These are just some of the things that you can do in Turkey that will make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. Of course, there are many more activities and experiences that you can try and discover in Turkey. You can also customize your trip according to your interests, time, and budget.

The interior of one of many cave cafes in Cappadocia~

🚆 Public transport in Turkey

The last thing you need to know before traveling to Turkey from Malaysia is the public transport system in Turkey. Turkey has a modern and efficient public transport system that consists of various modes such as buses, trains, metro, trams, ferries, taxis, etc. You can use public transport to get around within or between cities in Turkey.

Here are some tips on how to use public transport in Turkey:

Buy a travel card

A travel card is a smart card that you can use to pay for public transport in Turkey. You can buy a travel card at kiosks or vending machines at bus or metro stations. You can also top up your travel card at these places or at some shops or newsstands. A travel card will save you money, time, and hassle when using public transport in Turkey.

Use an app or a website

An app or a website can help you plan your trip using public transport in Turkey. You can use an app or a website to check the routes, schedules, fares, maps, etc. of public transport in Turkey.

Be aware of the etiquette and safety

When using public transport in Turkey, you should be aware of the etiquette and safety rules. For example, you should give up your seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled people. You should not smoke or eat on public transport. You should keep your belongings close to you and beware of pickpockets. You should also follow the instructions of the staff or the signs on public transport.

Using public transport in Turkey is a convenient and affordable way to travel around the country. You can also enjoy the views and the atmosphere of the places you visit by using public transport.

🥳 Experience a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Turkey from Malaysia

Traveling to Turkey from Malaysia is a wonderful and rewarding experience that you will cherish for a lifetime. Turkey is a country that has something for everyone: stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, delicious cuisine, friendly people, and more.

In this article, we have provided you with a complete guide on how to travel to Turkey from Malaysia in 2023. We have covered everything from travel restrictions and entry requirements due to COVID-19, to the best time to visit Turkey, to the top tourist attractions and activities in Turkey, to the public transport system in Turkey. We have also given you some tips and advice on how to plan and enjoy your trip to Turkey.

We hope that this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you are ready to book your trip to Turkey, we recommend that you use Trip.com , a leading online travel agency that offers the best deals and services for flights, hotels, tours, and more. Trip.com will help you find the best options and prices for your trip to Turkey, as well as provide you with customer support and assistance throughout your journey.

So what are you waiting for? Travel to Turkey from Malaysia and discover the wonders and beauty of this amazing country. You will not regret it!