Planning a trip to Türkiye in 2025? It’s essential to understand the country’s public holidays — not just for cultural insight, but also for practical reasons. During national holidays, banks, museums, markets, and even public transport can operate on different schedules, while popular destinations may be busier than usual. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Türkiye’s major public holidays and how they might impact your travel plans.
This guide will help you navigate Türkiye’s public holidays like a local:
- Learn which dates to avoid (or embrace!)
- Discover how to travel smart during Bayram
- Understand what stays open or closed
- Plan ahead to avoid surprises
📌 Table of Contents
- Overview of Public Holidays in Türkiye
- Full List of Public Holidays in 2025
- National Holidays: What Happens?
- Religious Holidays (Bayrams) Explained
- Travel During Bayrams: Pros & Cons
- What’s Open and Closed on Holidays?
- Booking Tips for Holiday Periods
- Cultural Tips for Visitors
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Ideas During Holidays
- Final Thoughts: Should You Travel During Turkish Holidays?
1. Overview of Public Holidays in Türkiye
Türkiye has two types of public holidays:
- National holidays (fixed dates, secular)
- Religious holidays (movable dates, based on Islamic calendar)
On these days, government offices, banks, and some businesses close, and locals often travel to visit family or go on vacation—causing heavy traffic and high demand for transport and hotels.
2. Turkish Public Holidays in 2025
| Date | Holiday Name | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 1 | New Year’s Day | National |
| Apr 23 | National Sovereignty & Children’s Day | National |
| May 1 | Labor and Solidarity Day | National |
| May 19 | Atatürk Memorial, Youth & Sports Day | National |
| Jun 6–9 | Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr) | Religious |
| Jul 15 | Democracy and National Unity Day | National |
| Aug 10–13 | Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha) | Religious |
| Aug 30 | Victory Day | National |
| Oct 29 | Republic Day | National |
🟡 Note: Religious holidays like Ramazan Bayramı and Kurban Bayramı shift yearly and last multiple days.
3. What Happens on National Holidays?
- Public institutions, schools, and banks close
- Some private businesses may also shut or reduce hours
- Public ceremonies and patriotic events take place, especially on October 29 (Republic Day)
- Urban areas may see street parades or concerts
- Most tourist attractions remain open but may be very crowded
4. Religious Holidays (Bayrams) Explained
🌙 Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr)
- Marks the end of Ramadan (30 days of fasting)
- Family reunions, feasts, gift-giving
- Some shops and restaurants closed on first day
- Transport systems become overloaded
🐑 Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha)
- Commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice
- Ritual animal sacrifices take place
- 4 days long: many locals travel
- Banks, government offices closed entire period
- Crowded airports, highways, beaches, and bus terminals
5. Should You Travel During Bayram?
✅ Pros:
- Witness cultural traditions up close
- Experience a warm and family-centric atmosphere
- Less crowded in big cities (locals travel away)
❌ Cons:
- Transport systems overbooked weeks in advance
- Some tourist services closed, especially in rural areas
- Prices spike for flights and hotels
- Museums may operate on limited hours
🟢 TIP: Book at least 3–4 weeks in advance if traveling around Bayram dates.
6. What’s Open and Closed?
| Type | National Holiday | Religious Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| Government offices | Closed | Closed |
| Banks | Closed | Closed |
| Shopping malls | Open | Open (reduced 1st day) |
| Grocery stores & bakeries | Usually open | Reduced hours |
| Museums & tourist sites | Mostly open | May vary, check ahead |
| Public transport | Runs (can be crowded) | Runs (extremely crowded) |
| Restaurants/Cafes | Mostly open | Closed 1st day in some cities |
7. Booking Tips for Traveling During Holidays
- Flights: Use comparison sites like Skyscanner or Kiwi
- Bus tickets: Buy on Obilet or Busbud at least 2 weeks ahead
- Hotels: Book early, especially in coastal regions or popular towns
- Alternative stays: Consider Airbnb in cities where locals leave during holidays
🟡 Avoid booking last minute—Bayram periods are like national migration seasons.
8. Cultural Tips for Visitors
- Greet people with “Bayramınız kutlu olsun” (Happy Bayram!)
- Don’t eat in public during Ramadan, especially in conservative towns
- Accept sweets or tea offered during Bayram—it’s part of hospitality
- Respect religious customs, especially around mosques
- Be patient: delays, slow service, and traffic are normal during holidays
9. Off-the-Beaten-Path Tips for Holiday Periods
- Explore lesser-known towns like Amasya, Mardin, or Kars (less crowded)
- Enjoy nature: hiking in Kaçkar Mountains, Lycian Way, or Lake Van
- Spa or wellness trips: Thermal hotels in Afyon or Yalova
- Stay in Istanbul: The city empties during Bayram, perfect for sightseeing
10. Final Thoughts
Traveling during Türkiye’s public holidays is a unique cultural experience—but only if you plan ahead. Expect crowds, book early, and embrace the energy. Or, skip the rush by choosing low-key destinations and off-season spots.
Whether you’re joining the celebrations or relaxing away from the crowds, Türkiye will leave a lasting impression.
Also check out:
- How to Travel Turkey Solo: A Complete 2025 Survival Guide
- How Much Does a Trip to Turkey Cost in 2025? Budget Breakdown by City & Traveler Type
- Ultimate Guide to Domestic Flights in Turkey (Airlines, Airports, Tips) – 2025
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