What to Pack

For women, it's advisable to bring a scarf or shawl that will cover the hair (and shoulders, if you are wearing a sleeveless shirt) so as to dress appropriately when entering mosques. If you're planning to visit Cappadocia, a flashlight can be extremely useful for exploring cave churches and underground cities. If you're going anywhere with beaches or archaeological ruins, it's wise to have sunscreen, as the Turkish sun can be intense. An umbrella is a good idea if you're visiting Istanbul during the rainy winter months.