Straddling western Asia and eastern Europe, Turkey’s rich cultural and historical legacy, combined with its sparkling coastline and warm, vivacious locals make it a stellar travel destination. Its seaside draw cards include the vibrant port city of Bodrum, the effortlessly elegant town of Kas, and the stunning beaches at the Fethiye, while its interior highlights include the hot mineral springs of Pamukkale, the bizarre rock formations of Cappadocia, and the ancient cliff temples of Dalyan. Istanbul presents a cosmopolitan, first-world city. From trendy restaurants and clubs to contemporary art galleries and five-star hotels and spas, the city offers a world of entertainment and leisure, which bustles between ancient monuments like the iconic, glorious Hagia Sophia. Famous for its hospitality, Turkey welcomes guests to explore its old-world charms while enjoying the best modern comforts.
Banking and Currency
Currency:
Local currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
Symbol: ₺
ISO code: TRY
Subunit: Kuruş (1/100 of a Lira)
Banknotes: ₺5, ₺10, ₺20, ₺50, ₺100, ₺200
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 kuruş; ₺1
Banking:
Card Transactions: Widely accepted
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s Club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: No
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines
International Airports: Istanbul Airport, Ankara Esenboğa Airport
Domestic Airports: Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, Dalaman Airport, Gazipaşa Airport, Trabzon Airport, Bodrum Milas Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: Yes
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety: Caution advised
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local Cuisine: Turkish cuisine is a rich amalgam of influences from the Ottoman era, featuring dishes that are both flavorful and diverse. Highlights include kebabs, meze (a variety of small dishes served as appetizers), and sweets like baklava and Turkish delight. Don't miss trying traditional beverages such as Turkish tea and coffee, ayran (a yogurt-based drink), and raki (an anise-flavored spirit).
Drinks: Turkish tea, Turkish coffee, Ayran, Raki
Tipping: 5-10%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Variable across regions
Average temperature: Variable across regions
Summer:
Average in highs: 30°C
Average in lows: 20°C
Winter:
Average in highs: 10°C
Average in lows: 0°C
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Turkey is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when temperatures are pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. These seasons offer the perfect climate for sightseeing in cities, hiking in national parks, and visiting the coastal regions.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer:
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn:
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes
General:
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: No
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type C, Type F
Voltage (V): 220
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
