Is it safe to drive in Turkey?

Yes, but stick to highways. Turkish drivers are aggressive and local city traffic can be chaotic. If you aren't confident, the bus network is excellent and cheap.

Do I need to carry cash?

Yes. While cards are accepted in cities, small shops, rural areas, and market stalls require Turkish Lira. Keep at least 1,000 Lira on you for emergencies.

How to see Turkey's highlights in two weeks

To see Turkey's major highlights in 14 days, follow a loop starting in Istanbul, heading south to the Mediterranean coast, and finishing in Cappadocia. Use domestic flights between major hubs to save 30+ hours of bus travel time.

Book domestic flights early. Use Turkish Airlines or Pegasus to fly between Istanbul, Dalaman (for the coast), and Kayseri/Nevşehir (for Cappadocia). Booking 6 weeks out usually keeps costs under $60 per flight.
Use the Museum Pass. Purchase the 'Museum Pass Türkiye' ($120 USD). It covers entry to over 300 sites, including Topkapı Palace and Ephesus, and allows you to skip the ticket lines.
Prioritize ground transport for short hauls. For distances under 3 hours, use a private transfer or a reputable bus company like Kamil Koç. Do not rent a car for the entire 14 days unless you are comfortable with aggressive highway driving.

Is it safe to drive in Turkey?: Yes, but stick to highways. Turkish drivers are aggressive and local city traffic can be chaotic. If you aren't confident, the bus network is excellent and cheap.
Do I need to carry cash?: Yes. While cards are accepted in cities, small shops, rural areas, and market stalls require Turkish Lira. Keep at least 1,000 Lira on you for emergencies.