Turkey, which is under lockdown since 26 April has decided to exclude foreign travellers from curfew, who are already in the country. The lockdown will last until 17 May to curb a surge in corona virus infections in the country.

Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, culture and tourism minister in Turkey assured foreign visitors that they are exempt from the round-the-clock curfew. Foreign visitors will be able to carry out their activities provided that they have their passports with them. Public transportation will continue to operate at 50% capacity.

Major museums and historical sites across nine cities including Istanbul, Antalya, Mugla and Nevsehir (Cappadocia) will be open to foreign visitors during the lockdown. The country is all geared up to host two major upcoming events too, as per the original schedule, UEFA Champions League Final on 29 May and Formula 1 from 11-13 June.

During the lockdown, accommodation facilities will continue to serve their customers including the dining facilities inside hotels. Other dining facilities such as restaurants and cafes will continue to operate only for delivery and take-away services.

Turkey is continuing to invest in ‘Safe Tourism Certification Programme’ which is one of the first and most successful examples in the world in this field ensuring  ‘strict safety and hygiene measures’ at tourist spots,  accommodation facilities and airports. The country also offers additional insurance facilities that provide various benefits along with health and travel insurance.