Explore Türkiye on Weekends
Your Erasmus semester is the perfect time to explore Türkiye beyond your university city. Domestic travel is usually much more affordable than students expect.
Local Buddy Tip
ESN sections often organize group trips on weekends. They are usually cheaper, simpler to plan and a fast way to meet people.
Top Weekend Destinations
- Cappadocia for balloons, cave hotels and a full weekend itinerary
- Pamukkale for travertines and a short escape from İzmir
- Ephesus for ancient history and day trips
- Antalya for beach weekends and old town walks
- Safranbolu for Ottoman architecture near Ankara
- Princes' Islands for a day trip from Istanbul
Transportation Options
Türkiye has a wide range of student-friendly transport choices, from buses to domestic flights.
- Pegasus and AnadoluJet for budget flights
- Kamil Koç, Metro and Pamukkale for intercity buses
- YHT high-speed train on selected routes
- BlaBlaCar for low-cost carpooling
- Car rental for group trips when split between friends
Local Buddy Tip
Use obilet.com to compare intercity bus companies and prices in one place before booking.
Budget Tips
- Travel in groups of 4 to 6 when possible
- Book hostels early during high season
- Use museum and student discounts whenever available
- Eat at local lokanta restaurants to keep food costs low
- Plan overnight transport when it saves a hotel night