Western Turkey travel tips

If you go to Turkey

The best way

From LAX, Delta, United, Turkish Airlines and British Airlines have connecting service (change of planes) to Istanbul. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $1,891.

TELEPHONES

To call the numbers below from the U.S., dial 011 (international dialing code), 90 (country code) and then the number.

GETTING AROUND

By train: Tickets can be purchased up to 15 days in advance. The best bet is through authorized travel agents, including:

Turista Travel, Divan Yolu Caddesi No. 16/B, Sultanahmet, Istanbul; 212-527-7085, https://www.turistatravel.com

Backpackers Travel Agency, Yeni Akbıyık Caddesi No. 22, Sultanahmet, Istanbul; 212-638-6343, https://www.backpackerstravel.net

Tickets can be purchased at all train stations. During holiday periods, it is essential to buy tickets for intercity buses, especially sleepers, in advance. A pass good for unlimited travel on the entire Turkish rail system (Ekspres Tren Tur Karti) costs $95.

By bus: Turkey has an extensive network of private bus lines that provide comfortable and economical connections to virtually every town and city. Most long-distance buses offer complimentary drinks and snacks. Service varies with the company and distance (different companies cover different parts of the country). Ulusoy, Varan, Kamil Koc and Pumukkala are generally considered to be the top bus companies in Turkey.

WHERE TO STAY

Rates include breakfast and all taxes and fees.

White House Hotel, Alemdar Mah. Çatalçeşme Sok. No. 21, Sultanahmet, İstanbul; 212-526-0019, https://www.istanbulwhitehouse.com. Elegant and well located. Doubles from $155.

Hotel Nomade, Divanyolu Caddesi, Ticarethane Sokak 15, Sultanahmet, Istanbul; 212-513-8172; https://www.hotelnomade.com. Small but stylish rooms in excellent location. Doubles from $120.

Rumi Hotel, Durakfaki Mah Durakfaki Sok No. 5, Mevlana Alani, Konya 42030; 332-353-1121, https://www.rumihotel.com. Clean, comfortable and convenient. Doubles from $80.

WHERE TO EAT

Ciya Sofrasi, Guneslibahce Sokak 43, Kadikoy, Istanbul; 216-330-3190, https://www.ciya.com.tr. Superlative traditional Turkish dishes. Entrees less than $10.

Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi, 12 Divanyolu Cad., Sultanahmet, Istanbul; 212-520-0566. Charming family-run restaurant serving delicious grilled meatballs and white bean salad. Entrees less than $10.