5-Day Istanbul City Break

Yes — Indian passport holders must apply for a Turkish e-visa online at evisa.gov.tr before travelling. The fee is currently USD 50 and processing is usually instant to 24 hours. The e-visa allows a 30-day stay.

April to June and September to November are ideal — mild weather, no summer heat and fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest months; the Turkish coast is packed but the beaches are at their best. Cappadocia is magical in winter with snow on the rock chimneys, and balloon rides still run most days.

Cappadocia is one of the best places in the world for balloon flights — the volcanic landscape creates ideal stable conditions and the operators are experienced. Flights are cancelled when wind speeds are unsafe; if yours is cancelled, a rebooking is attempted for the following morning. The ride is not included in the package price but is very strongly recommended.

Turkey has excellent vegetarian options — meze platters, lentil soup (mercimek çorbası), cheese börek, pide bread, stuffed vine leaves (dolma), fresh salads, and grilled vegetable dishes. Breakfast spreads are particularly good: olives, cheeses, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers and fresh bread every morning.

The Turkish Lira (TRY). The lira has been volatile in recent years, so exchange rates can fluctuate. USD and Euro are accepted in tourist areas, hotels and restaurants. Cards work widely. It is worth carrying some cash for the bazaars.