Welcome to Turkey 😊

Quick Facts About Turkey

Money and Finances

The currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY). Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 kurus, as well as 1 lira. Notes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 lira.

ATM Network

ATMs can be found in most cities and towns in Turkey, and are generally reliable and easy to use. However, it is advisable to carry some cash as backup, especially if traveling to more remote areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Turkey, especially Visa and Mastercard. AMEX is less commonly accepted. However, it is advisable to carry some cash as backup, especially if traveling to more remote areas where credit card facilities may not be available.

Internet and Phones

In Turkey, the average internet speed for downloads is 56 Mbps and for uploads is 12 Mbps. The government does not significantly interfere with internet use, but some social media and news websites have been blocked in the past.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The major telco companies in Turkey are Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 80-100 Turkish Lira per month. SIM cards are widely available and compatible with most devices, but visitors should bring an unlocked phone to use local networks.

Dialling to Turkey

To call Turkey from another country, dial the country code +90 followed by the area code and the phone number. The area codes in Turkey range from 212 for Istanbul to 482 for Van.

Transport Around Turkey

Air Travel

Turkey has several major airports, including Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Ankara Esenboğa Airport, and Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.

Train Travel

Turkey has a well-developed inter-city train network, with trains running between major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Example ticket prices range from 50-150 TL and journey times vary depending on the distance traveled.

Metro / Local Trains

Istanbul and Ankara both have metro systems that provide local train service within the cities.

Buses

Turkey also has an extensive bus network that connects cities and towns throughout the country. Example ticket prices range from 25-75 TL and journey times vary depending on the distance traveled.

Rideshare

Uber and BiTaksi are popular rideshare companies in Turkey, with average prices similar to standard taxi fares.

Driving by Car

Driving in Turkey can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow roads in some areas. The speed limit on highways is 120 km/h and Turkey drives on the right side of the road.

Local Customs

In Turkey, tipping is common but not necessary in all cases. Around 10-15% of the total amount can be given in restaurants and cafes. In terms of greetings, locals often use a handshake and eye contact, although some may also use a small bow. When addressing strangers, it is polite to use formal titles such as 'Hocam' (teacher) or 'Bey' (sir). Men and women generally address each other with a handshake, and it is common for women to address each other with a light kiss on both cheeks.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Turkey has a universal healthcare system, which provides both public and private healthcare. Public healthcare is free of charge for all citizens and residents, but it may not be of the same standard as private healthcare. The approximate cost for a visit to the doctor is around 100-150 Turkish Lira ($12-$18 USD). If you are a foreigner, it is recommended to have travel health insurance as private healthcare can be expensive.

COVID Situation

Turkey has implemented a range of measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including lockdowns, mask-wearing mandates, and sanitary regulations. As of June 2021, the number of daily cases has decreased significantly compared to the peak in April 2021. Vaccinations have also started, with priority given to healthcare workers and elderly citizens. Travelers entering Turkey must present a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination.

Common Health Risks

The most common health risks in Turkey include food and water-borne illnesses, such as diarrhea, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria and West Nile virus, are prevalent in certain regions during the summer months. It is recommended to take precautions, such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing. Additionally, travelers should be cautious when eating undercooked meat and seafood, as well as drinking tap water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Turkey, alcohol is legal for those over the age of 18, but there are restrictions on where and when it can be consumed. Some areas and religious holidays have alcohol bans, and driving under the influence is strictly prohibited.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Turkey, with severe penalties for possession, trafficking, and use. Soft drugs such as cannabis are also prohibited, and drug laws are strictly enforced.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Turkey has a conservative culture, and pre-marital relationships are generally frowned upon. However, there are no laws specifically prohibiting such relationships, and young people are increasingly adopting more liberal attitudes towards dating and sexuality.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

LGBTQ rights in Turkey have come under increased scrutiny in recent years, with discrimination and harassment of LGBTQ individuals being prevalent. Same-sex relationships are legal, but there are no legal provisions for same-sex marriage or civil unions.

Firearms / Guns

Turkey has strict gun laws, and firearms are heavily restricted. Only licensed individuals may own firearms, and there are strict regulations on how they may be used and stored. Unlicensed possession or use of firearms can result in severe penalties.

Regions in Turkey

There are many wonderful regions to visit in Turkey, browse through each to see what to visit.

1 Popular Travel Destination in Turkey