Travel Vaccines and Advice for Türkiye
Bazaars, Hamams, beaches, museums, the cities, and the ruins are some of Türkiye’s amazing sites.
When travelers are looking for a place to rest their heads, Türkiye offers some of the best boutique hotels. The Keyebek Hotel, the Alcati, the Safranbolu, the White Garden Pansion, the Nisanyan Hotel, and the Casa di Bava are amazing places to stay.
Türkiye also offers tours for travelers to see the sights. It gives tourists the chance to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Türkiye. Taking pictures makes travelers capture their own memories on film.
Whether you love seeing the sites, being adventurous or learning about history and culture, Türkiye a perfect place to visit.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Türkiye?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Türkiye
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Türkiye?
What Is the Climate Like in Türkiye?
Is It Safe to Travel to Türkiye?
Cappadocia and Its Amazing Rock Formations
What Should I Take to Türkiye?
U.S. Embassy in Türkiye
Do I Need Vaccines for Türkiye?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Türkiye. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Türkiye: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
While there is no active polio transmission in Türkiye, it is vulnerable for outbreaks. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Türkiye |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | While there is no active polio transmission in Türkiye, it is vulnerable for outbreaks. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Türkiye |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is primarily transmitted through tainted food and water. Protection against this disease involves vaccination combined with good hygiene and careful food consumption.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, a liver infection caused by a contagious virus, can have severe symptoms. To prevent its spread, vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine is essential, along with maintaining hygiene practices. This vaccine effectively protects against infection.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Preventing their transmission is possible through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. This two-dose vaccine not only safeguards individuals but also helps create herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks within communities.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Türkiye
Prevent Bug Bites in Türkiye
Prevent bug bites by wearing long clothing and using EPA-registered insect repellents like DEET or picaridin. Be mindful of bug-prone hours and secure your sleeping space with nets and screens. If bitten, clean the affected area, avoid scratching, and consider over-the-counter treatments, while promptly seeking medical attention for severe symptoms.
Food and Water Safety in Türkiye
While dining abroad, prioritize food safety by avoiding street food, practicing hand hygiene, and selecting fully cooked dishes. Opt for sealed bottled or canned drinks. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by adhering to hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Altitude Sickness in Türkiye
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is caused by insufficient oxygen at high elevations. Symptoms include headaches and nausea. To avoid AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If AMS strikes, descend to lower altitudes promptly, rest, and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
Infections To Be Aware of in Türkiye
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is transmitted by ticks and can also spread from person to person through contact with infected bodily fluids. Preventative measures include tick bite prevention, healthcare worker precautions, and research towards a potential vaccine.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis spreads via sand fly bites but can also be transmitted through other means. Prevention includes using insect repellents, covering up, and staying indoors during sand fly activity.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Türkiye?
A visa is not required for stays in Türkiye which are fewer than 90 days within a 180 day period. Travelers must have an entry and exit stamp for every crossing of the Turkish border.
Türkiye Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Türkiye? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Türkiye and U.S. State Department
Entry to or from other Middle Eastern countries can be complicated. Consult with a travel documents specialist as you plan your trip.
What Is the Climate Like in Türkiye?
Türkiye has a diverse climate with seven different climatic regions. Here are the following regions in Türkiye.
- Marmara — This region has a country atmosphere with farmlands for fruits, vegetables and grains. Winter temperatures are cold while summers can reach the high-90’s.
- Mediterranean — With high mountain ranges and amazing beaches, it is a must visit. It has beaches and fertile plains. The temperatures range from 45C/113F to -5C/23F with a rainfall of 31 inches.
- The Black Sea Coast — Stretching for over 1,000 miles, this coast has lush green grass and often rains. The region is known for their cherries and hazelnuts. Temperatures range from the low-teens in winter to high-80’s in summer.
- Anatolia —The weather is warm most of the time. In the summer the temperature can reach 115 degrees. Winters are cold, as low as 10 degrees.
Is It Safe to Travel to Türkiye?
Traveling to Türkiye does pose more risk than many other regions. Terrorist attacks have been known to occur and traveler safety is at risk. Travel to the southeastern regions is not recommended.
More urban areas like Istanbul are safer destinations. Increased security and government efforts have helped secure these regions. But, crime is still committed against travelers. Petty crime, like pick-pocketing, is common.
Do not walk alone at night and travel with a group during the day. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially at tourist sites as theft is more common there.
Keep a copy of your travel documents with you at all times.
Cappadocia and Its Amazing Rock Formations
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Cappadocia is a region in central Türkiye known for its unique rock formations, underground cities and hot air balloon rides. There are many reasons why a traveler would visit Cappadocia, including:
- Fairy chimneys: Cappadocia is known for its unusual rock formations, called fairy chimneys. These tall, cone-shaped rocks are made of soft tuff and have eroded over time into fantastic shapes that resemble mushrooms, cones and even animals.
- Underground cities: The region is home to several underground cities, including Derinkuyu and Kaymakli. These ancient cities were carved into the soft volcanic rock and provided shelter for early Christians escaping persecution.
- Hot air balloon rides: One of the most popular activities in Cappadocia is taking a hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscape. The balloons lift off early in the morning, providing stunning views of the chimneys and valleys.
- Hiking: There are many hiking trails in Cappadocia that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some popular trails include the Rose Valley, Pigeon Valley, and Love Valley.
A traveler visiting Cappadocia can expect to be immersed in a unique and surreal landscape.
What Should I Take to Türkiye?
When you travel to Türkiye, you need to think about what to take with you. Here are the following things you should take on your trip.
- Dress Code — Pack clothes and shoes that are comfortable, yet modest. It’s a good idea to pack for every occasion whether it’s in the city, at the beach, on a yacht cruise, or for the weather. You want to be respectful when visiting certain places in Türkiye.
- Tickets, Money and ID — Make sure you keep copies of everything with you when traveling to and around Türkiye. Officials can, and do, ask for documentation at various times and could detain you if you do not have what is required.
- Medicine — Make sure to bring any prescriptions medications you may need with you, in your carry-on. Be sure to keep them in a safe place once you arrive to avoid any incidents.
U.S. Embassy in Türkiye
All Americans visiting Türkiye should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in Türkiye, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Ankara
1480 Sok No:1 Cukurambar Mah
Cankaya 06530, Ankara
Türkiye
Telephone: +(90) (312) 294-0000 (emergencies only)
Fax: +(90) (312) 232-7472
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Türkiye
Overall rating: 5 stars – 4 reviews
★★★★★
“A must for travelers“
“I was a skeptic prior to my appointment but once there I knew it was a necessity. 1 – a wonderful nurse knowledgeably explained what was required for our trip to Türkiye. 2 – assisted us in selecting the proper medicines. 3 – very helpful helping us understand the areas we will be traveling. A must see before traveling anywhere. Thanks”
Submitted by: Dale
★★★★★
“Super Service“
“We went to Passport Health this morning to get immunizations for our upcoming trip to Türkiye and Africa. We had an appointment and were seen on time! All our questions were answered and shots were given. It was a pleasure to do business with people who know their business.”
Submitted by: Pat
★★★★★
“Why the experience was excellent“
“Our guide to the potential world of illnesses awaiting us in Türkiye was begun with a a cheerful smile and a genuinely warm welcome. He was informative without being scary…and did a good job at putting the risks into perspective. .He displayed a sense of humor about his task without compromising the information at hand and my sense was that he is most adaptable to all types of clients and would be able to hand hold if necessary.”
Submitted by: Roz
★★★★★
“Great Service“
“My husband and I came to Passport Health as it was the only clinic in the area that provided one of the shots the CDC recommended for our trip to Türkiye. The nurse was fabulous and took time to answer all of our questions as well as called in a preventive prescription to our pharmacy.”
Submitted by: Iris
“I was a skeptic prior to my appointment but once there I knew it was a necessity. 1 – a wonderful nurse knowledgeably explained what was required for our trip to Türkiye. 2 – assisted us in selecting the proper medicines. 3 – very helpful helping us understand the areas we will be traveling. A must see before traveling anywhere. Thanks”
“We went to Passport Health this morning to get immunizations for our upcoming trip to Türkiye and Africa. We had an appointment and were seen on time! All our questions were answered and shots were given. It was a pleasure to do business with people who know their business.”
“Our guide to the potential world of illnesses awaiting us in Türkiye was begun with a a cheerful smile and a genuinely warm welcome. He was informative without being scary…and did a good job at putting the risks into perspective. .He displayed a sense of humor about his task without compromising the information at hand and my sense was that he is most adaptable to all types of clients and would be able to hand hold if necessary.”
“My husband and I came to Passport Health as it was the only clinic in the area that provided one of the shots the CDC recommended for our trip to Türkiye. The nurse was fabulous and took time to answer all of our questions as well as called in a preventive prescription to our pharmacy.”
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