Turkey

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. 


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