Turkey: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
No, Turkey is not in the Schengen zone. Days spent in Turkey do not count toward your 90-day Schengen allowance. This makes Turkey one of the most strategic destinations for UK travellers who want to extend a European trip without burning through their Schengen days.
Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offering a rich mix of history, cuisine, and stunning landscapes. Istanbul alone is worth a visit of several days, and the country's Mediterranean and Aegean coasts are easily accessible from neighbouring Greek islands. For UK travellers on long European trips, Turkey provides a natural break from the Schengen zone while staying in the same region.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: No
- EU Member: No
- Year Joined Schengen: N/A
- Capital: Ankara
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
- Languages: Turkish
Turkey is not a member of the Schengen zone or the European Union. Days spent in Turkey do not count toward the Schengen 90/180-day limit, making it a strategic destination for travellers managing their Schengen allowance.
Using Turkey as a Schengen Break?
Time in Turkey pauses your Schengen clock. Use Entorii to track exactly when your Schengen days stop counting and when they restart as you move between Turkey and the Schengen zone.
How Long Can You Stay?
Since Turkey is not in the Schengen zone, there is no Schengen day limit for time spent here. UK passport holders can visit Turkey for up to 90 days without a visa under Turkey's own immigration rules (e-Visa required).
The key benefit for Schengen-conscious travellers: every day you spend in Turkey pauses your Schengen clock. If you have been in the Schengen zone for 60 days and need a break, a week or two in Turkey gives you breathing room before re-entering Europe. Turkey has its own 90-day tourist allowance within 180 days, which is separate from and unrelated to the Schengen system.
Top Destinations in Turkey
Istanbul (4-5 days)
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus cruises, and incredible food.
Cappadocia (2-3 days)
Hot air balloon rides over fairy chimneys, cave hotels, and underground cities.
Antalya & Turkish Riviera (7-10 days)
Beach resorts, ancient ruins at Side and Perge, and the turquoise coast.
Bodrum & Aegean Coast (5-7 days)
Harbour town with castle, nearby Greek island ferries, and boutique beach resorts.
Ephesus (1-2 days)
One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, near the port of Kusadasi.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from the UK serve Istanbul, Antalya, Dalaman, Bodrum, and Izmir. Flight times are three and a half to four hours. Turkish Airlines, British Airways, easyJet, and Jet2 run regular services. Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) on the Asian side. Antalya and Dalaman are the main gateways for beach holidays. You can also ferry from several Greek islands to the Turkish coast (Kos to Bodrum, Rhodes to Marmaris).
Travel Tips
UK citizens need an e-Visa to enter Turkey, which can be obtained online before travel for approximately 40 US dollars. The visa is valid for 90 days within 180 days and allows multiple entries. Apply at the official e-Visa website (evisa.gov.tr) rather than third-party sites that charge unnecessary fees.
Turkey offers exceptional value for UK travellers. The Turkish Lira has weakened significantly against the pound, making food, accommodation, and transport very affordable. Haggling is expected in bazaars and some shops but not in restaurants or modern stores. Turkish hospitality is legendary, and you can expect generous portions of food and strong tea offered freely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Turkey in the Schengen zone?
No. Turkey is not a member of the Schengen zone or the European Union. Days spent in Turkey do not count toward the 90-day Schengen limit.
Can I use Turkey to pause my Schengen clock?
Yes. Since Turkey is outside the Schengen zone, any days you spend in Turkey do not count toward your Schengen 90/180-day allowance. This makes Turkey a popular strategic stop for travellers on long European trips who need to pause their Schengen clock.
Do I need a visa for Turkey as a UK citizen?
Yes. UK citizens need an e-Visa to enter Turkey. It can be obtained online at evisa.gov.tr before travel. The cost is approximately 40 US dollars and the visa allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days.
Can I ferry from Greece to Turkey?
Yes. Regular ferry services run from several Greek islands to the Turkish coast: Kos to Bodrum, Rhodes to Marmaris, Samos to Kusadasi, and Lesbos to Ayvalik, among others. The crossing typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. You will go through passport control on both sides.
Does Turkey have its own 90-day limit?
Yes. Turkey has its own immigration rules separate from Schengen. UK citizens can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within any 180-day period on an e-Visa. This is completely independent of the Schengen 90/180-day count.