Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling to Turkey, booking trips, and using VisitTurkey.in. Our comprehensive FAQs page is designed to provide you with all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas, including airports, hotels, shopping centers, and banks.
Recently, a significant change was announced regarding taxi fares in Ankara. The Ankara Metropolitan Municipality has implemented an increase in taxi rates, affecting both the initial fare when entering a taxi and the standard fare for short-distance rides. Under the new pricing structure, the taximeter opening fare has been raised to 35 Turkish Lira, while the base fare, often referred to as the “bindi-indi” fee for short trips, has been increased to 100 Turkish Lira.
Ankara Taxi Fare Increase
Reasons Behind the Fare Increase
The decision to raise taxi fares in Ankara comes amid rising operational costs for taxi drivers, including fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, and general living expenses. The fare hike aims to ensure that taxi services remain viable for drivers while continuing to offer safe and reliable transportation options for passengers.
Impact on Passengers and Drivers
This fare adjustment is expected to have several implications for both passengers and taxi drivers in Ankara. For passengers, the increase means higher costs for short and long-distance trips, potentially leading to a shift in transportation choices, with some opting for public transit or ride-sharing services. For drivers, the fare hike provides a necessary boost to their income, helping to offset the higher expenses they face due to inflation and other economic pressures.
Ankara Taxi Fare Increase
While the fare increase may be met with mixed reactions, it reflects a broader trend of adjusting public transportation prices in response to economic conditions. The Ankara Metropolitan Municipality has stated that the new rates are part of an ongoing effort to balance the needs of taxi operators with those of the city’s residents, ensuring a fair and sustainable transportation system for all.
Traveling to Turkey and need access to cash? You’ll find that withdrawing money from ATMs is a convenient and straightforward process. Here’s what you need to know:
Using ATMs in Turkey
Currencies Available:
- Visitors can withdraw money in Turkish Lira (TRY) as well as in Euros (EUR) and U.S. Dollars (USD) from many ATMs across Turkey. However, Turkish Lira is the most commonly dispensed currency.
Language Options:
- The majority of ATMs offer English and other language options, making it easy for foreigners to navigate the transaction process.
Steps to Withdraw Money
- Insert Your Card:
- Insert your debit or credit card into the ATM. Most ATMs in Turkey accept international cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and Cirrus.
- Select Language:
- Choose your preferred language for the transaction. English is widely available.
- Enter PIN:
- Enter your personal identification number (PIN) as prompted.
- Choose Transaction Type:
- Select the type of transaction you wish to perform. For withdrawing cash, choose the ‘Withdrawal’ option.
- Select Currency and Amount:
- Choose the currency (TRY, EUR, or USD) and enter the amount you wish to withdraw.
- Complete Transaction:
- Confirm the transaction and collect your cash, receipt, and card from the machine.
Tips for Using ATMs
Notify Your Bank:
- Before traveling, inform your bank about your trip to Turkey to avoid any issues with your card being blocked for suspicious activity.
ATM Locations:
- ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas, including airports, hotels, shopping centers, and banks.
Fees and Exchange Rates:
- Be aware of potential fees for international transactions, which may include a withdrawal fee from your home bank and a fee from the Turkish ATM operator. Additionally, exchange rates may vary, so check with your bank for the most favorable rates.
Daily Withdrawal Limits:
- Note that there may be daily withdrawal limits imposed by both your home bank and the ATM operator. It’s a good idea to check these limits in advance.
Security Tips:
- Use ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas, preferably inside bank branches or busy public places.
- Shield your PIN when entering it.
- Be cautious of skimming devices and report any suspicious activity to the bank.
Yes, there may be daily withdrawal limits imposed by both your home bank and the ATM operator. It’s a good idea to check these limits in advance.
Notify your bank about your trip to Turkey to avoid any issues with your card being blocked for suspicious activity.
The most visited city in Turkey in 2024 is Istanbul. As one of the world’s top tourist destinations, Istanbul continues to attract millions of visitors each year. In the first four months of 2024 alone—January, February, March, and April—Istanbul welcomed a total of 5,244,936 foreign visitors, according to the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. This underscores the city’s enduring appeal as a cultural and historical hub.
The ideal currency to bring to Turkey is the Turkish lira, as it’s the local currency. US dollars are also widely accepted and easily exchanged at banks and currency exchange offices. However, the most cost-effective way to pay in Turkey is by using a multi-currency travel debit card, which can help you avoid the fees associated with converting cash.
Can I withdraw money from ATMs?
Visitors may withdraw money in Turkish Lira as well as Euro and U.S. Dollar with their debit cards from ATMs in Turkey. The majority of ATMs offer English language or other language options for the convenience of foreigners.
Can I use my credit cards for shopping?
Visitors may use their credit cards and debit cards for all kinds of purchases. It is advisable, however, to carry some cash with you in case you take trips away from the city center or travel to smaller towns or villages.
What is the local currency in Turkey?
Turkish Lira is the local currency of the Republic of Turkey. Visitors can exchange their cash money for Turkish Lira at exchange offices and banks.
Can I drive in Turkey with my driver’s license?
Foreigners may drive in Turkey provided that they keep their passport, international driver’s license, and the vehicle license with them all the time. Turkey drives on the right side of the road and the advanced highway network allows easy access to different corners of the land.
What kind of sockets are used in Turkey?
European two-pin sockets are widely used in Turkey, as everywhere in continental Europe.
Do I have to speak Turkish to interact with people during my visit?
English is the most spoken foreign language everywhere in Turkey. You should have no problem meeting people who can speak English and help you get around in all the big cities, shopping malls, restaurants, and holiday resorts.
Can I use my mobile phone in Turkey?
Many international GSM operators provide coverage in Turkey in addition to local GSM operators such as Turkcell, Avea, and Vodafone. You may ask your GSM operator to activate the international roaming function of your mobile phone before traveling to Turkey or obtain a new SIM card from local operators in Turkey.
What are the opening and closing times of museums in Turkey?
All of the museums in Turkey are closed on Monday and are open to visitation from 9:00 to 17:00 on the other days.
What are the opening hours of pharmacies in Turkey?
Pharmacies are open across the country every day from 09:00 to 19:00 except for Sunday. One pharmacy, however, is open 24/7 in each neighborhood by the time the others are closed.
What are the opening hours of shopping centers in Turkey?
In Turkey, shopping centers are open every day offering a variety of trademarks and services usually from 10:00 am until 22:00 pm.
What are the opening hours of banks in Turkey?
In Turkey, banks are in service of their customers from 09:00 to 17:00 on weekdays but are closed on weekends.
What is the time zone in Turkey?
The time zone in Turkey situated at the connecting point of Asia and Europe is GMT +2.
Do I need any vaccinations before going to Turkey?
There are no mandatory vaccinations before traveling to Turkey.
Travel Tips help maximize your time and money spent in Europe and beyond. Topics include packing, planning, safety, tourist scams, transportation, money, sleeping, and much more. Here are some practical travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to Turkey.
Essential Travel Tips
Always Carry Your ID and Passport
Tourists should carry their ID and passport with them at all times for their own safety. This ensures you can identify yourself if needed and helps in case of emergencies.
Keep Some Turkish Lira
Even if a small amount of cash, it is advisable to keep some Turkish Lira with you. While credit cards are widely accepted, having cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in areas where cards are not accepted.
Use Travel Guides and Maps
Printed or digital travel guides and maps informing about the location you are visiting will help you get around and save valuable time so that you can focus on things worth seeing and doing.
Obtain a Museum Pass
Visitors who are planning to join culture tours in Istanbul, or Turkey in general, will be granted faster and cheaper admission to museums if they obtain a Museum Pass.
Use Online Check-In for Flights
Travelers who anticipate possible traffic congestion can use the online check-in system before arriving at the airport to avoid running the risk of missing their flight.
Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping
Tourists may benefit from tax-free shopping in Turkey by applying at the tax refund offices at the airports with their purchase receipts.
Purchase Prepaid SIM Cards
Tourists in Turkey may prefer to purchase prepaid SIM cards from the stores of local GSM operators to make cheap local and international calls and avoid any connection problems.
Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes
Wearing comfortable clothes and sports shoes will make you feel more comfortable if you are planning to participate in cultural tours during your stay in Turkey.
Use Public Transportation
Obtaining a public transportation card and making use of public transportation facilities is more practical and cheaper if you intend to spend your holiday in one of Turkey’s metropolitan areas.
Keep a Turkish Dictionary
It is advisable to keep a Turkish dictionary with you at all times. Finding people who speak foreign languages may not be possible at all times.
Rely on Local Hospitality
Turkish people are well known for their hospitality and friendliness. If you need help, you may ask the people around you; they will not turn you down.
Discover the best of travel Turkey. Explore top tourism spots, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, find tips on the best destinations, hotels, flights, and tours to make your Turkish adventure unforgettable. Dive into the wonders of tourism in Turkey and plan your perfect trip today!
Top Destinations in Turkey
Explore Turkey’s top destinations, from Istanbul’s vibrant streets to Cappadocia’s unique landscapes and Antalya’s beaches.
Bolu
Bolu, Turkey, is a hidden gem nestled between Istanbul and [...]
Abant Lake, Babas Kaplıcası, boating, Bolu, Bolu attractions, Bolu Castle, Bolu Museum, culinary traditions, culture, fishing, Gölcük Nature Park, Göynük, hidden gem, hiking, historical sites, Höşmerim, Kabak Tatlısı, Karacasu Thermal Springs, Kartalkaya, lakes, local markets, Mengen Chef Festival, Mengen cuisine, mountains, mud baths, Mudurnu, nature, nature lover, Ottoman architecture, outdoor activities, Seben, skiing, spas, thermal springs, things to do in Bolu, tourism, travel, Turkey, Yedigöller National Park
Batman
Welcome to Batman, a city that holds a unique charm [...]
ancient Caria, Batman, Batman Airport, Batman province, Batman University, cultural heritage, festivals, Hasankeyf, historical ruins, Kurdish culture, Mediterranean climate, Menteşe dynasty, oil industry, scenic views, Tigris River, tourism, transportation, travel destination, Turkey, Zeynel Bey Mausoleum
Adana
If you’re looking for a destination that combines rich history, [...]
Adana, Adana accommodation, Adana attractions, Adana culture, Adana festivals, Adana food, Adana highlights, Adana historical sites, Adana kebab, Adana markets, Adana natural beauty, Adana outdoor activities, Adana Sabancı Merkez Mosque, Adana Seyhan River, Adana shopping, Adana Stone Bridge, Adana tips for travelers, Adana tourism, Adana travel, attractions, cuisine, culture, hidden gem, historical sites, things to do in Adana, tourism, travel, Turkey, Visit Adana
Niğde
Niğde, a quaint yet historically rich city nestled in Turkey’s [...]
Alaaddin Mosque, ancient Tyana, Central Anatolia attractions, Eski Gümüşler Monastery, historical Niğde, historical sites in Niğde, Niğde, Niğde Archaeological Museum, Niğde Castle, Niğde climate, Niğde Province, Niğde sightseeing, Niğde tourism, Niğde travel, Niğde Turkey, scenic spots in Niğde, Sungur Bey Mosque, travel in Central Anatolia, Turkish cities to visit
Kahramanmaraş
Kahramanmaraş, historically known as Marash, is a city with deep-rooted [...]
2023 earthquake, Battle of Marash, boutique hotels, camping in Kahramanmaraş, Ceyhan River, Ceyhan River boating, cultural festivals, Grand Mosque, harvest festivals, International Ice Cream Festival, Kahramanmaraş, Kahramanmaraş Airport, Kahramanmaraş Castle, Kahramanmaraş history, Kahramanmaraş hotels, Kahramanmaraş markets, Kahramanmaraş Museum, Kahramanmaraş recovery, Lake Aksu, Maraş Dondurması, Marash, Mediterranean climate, Mediterranean region, Mount Ahır, Mount Ahır hiking, traditional Turkish dishes, Turkey travel, Turkish cuisine, Ulu Cami, visit Turkey
Kilis
Kilis, a captivating city in the southernmost part of Turkey, [...]
Kilis, Kilis 7 Aralık University, Kilis archaeological sites, Kilis attractions, Kilis climate, Kilis cuisine, Kilis culture, Kilis demographics, Kilis diversity, Kilis heritage, Kilis historical sites, Kilis history, Kilis Mediterranean climate, Kilis modern era, Kilis mosques, Kilis Ottoman period, Kilis resilience, Kilis Syria border, Kilis tourism, Kilis travel, Kilis Turkish baths
Eskişehir
Eskişehir, a vibrant and modern city in northwestern Turkey, offers [...]
Adalar District, culture, day trips from Eskişehir, Eskişehir, Eskişehir architecture, Eskişehir art galleries, Eskişehir attractions, Eskişehir Aviation Museum, Eskişehir cuisine, Eskişehir cultural centers, Eskişehir Eti Archaeology Museum, Eskişehir festivals, Eskişehir Meerschaum Museum, Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, Eskişehir nightlife, Eskişehir Opera House, Eskişehir parks, Eskişehir sports, Eskişehir thermal springs, Eskişehir transportation, Eskişehir universities, Eskişehir winter charm, Eskişehir youthful vibe, hidden gem, historical sites, modern city, museums, Odunpazarı, Porsuk River, Sazova Park, shopping in Eskişehir, things to do in Eskişehir, tourism, travel, Turkey
Antalya
Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera, is a mesmerizing [...]
Antalya, Antalya Aquarium, Antalya attractions, Antalya Bazaar, Antalya Film Festival, Antalya Museum, Antalya nightlife, beaches, cuisine, culture, Düden Waterfalls, Hadrian's Gate, historical sites, Jewel of the Turkish Riviera, Kaleiçi, Konyaaltı Beach, Köprülü Canyon National Park, Lara Beach, Marina District, Mediterranean coast, Mount Tahtalı, Olympos Beach, Perge, piyaz, şiş kebab, tourism, travel, Turkey, Turkish Hammam, Turkish Riviera
Ağrı
Ağrı, Turkey, located in the eastern part of the country, [...]
Ağrı, Ağrı Ahmed-i Hani Airport, Ağrı attractions, Ağrı Kebab, Ağrı Plateau, cultural heritage, culture, Diyadin Thermal Springs, Doğubeyazıt, Eastern Anatolia, Erzurum, Göfte, hidden gem, historical landmarks, historical sites, Iğdır, Ishak Pasha Palace, Künefe, Lake Balık, local festivals, local markets, Meteor Crater, Mount Ararat, Mount Ararat National Park, natural beauty, nature, outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, things to do in Ağrı, tourism, traditional handicrafts, travel, Turkey
Samsun
Samsun, historically known as Sampsounta and Amisos, is a vibrant [...]
Amazon Village, Atakum Beach, Black Sea port, Kızılırmak Delta, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Samsun, Samsun Archaeology Museum, Samsun attractions, Samsun culture, Samsun festivals, Samsun history, Samsun local cuisine, travel to Samsun, Turkey travel, Turkish War of Independence, visit Samsun
Denizli
Denizli is a hidden gem in Turkey, offering a blend [...]
Cleopatra hot springs, culture, Denizli, Denizli attractions, Denizli city, Denizli historical sites, Denizli landmarks, Denizli markets, Denizli natural beauty, Denizli shopping, Denizli sightseeing, Denizli to Pamukkale, Denizli tourism, Denizli travel, explore Denizli, hidden gem, Hierapolis, Hierapolis ruins, historical sites, Karahayit Red Springs, Pamukkale, Pamukkale terraces, Pamukkale thermal waters, thermal spa, thermal springs, things to do in Denizli, tourism, travel, Turkey, Turkish textiles, visit Denizli
Amasya
Amasya is a captivating city in Turkey, renowned for its [...]
Amasya, Amasya apples, Amasya attractions, Amasya Museum, ancient civilizations, Aynalı Mağara, Ayvalıpınar Höyüğü, best time to visit, Bimarhane, Black Sea region, Borabay Lake, boutique hotels, budget-friendly accommodations, cultural festivals, culture, Halifet Gazi Kümbeti, Hamam Tepesi Höyüğü, Harşena Mountain, Hazeranlar Mansion, hidden gem, historical sites, Kingdom of Pontus, Künbet Höyük, local customs, local markets, Ottoman architecture, Ottoman princes, Roman and Byzantine influence, scenic views, things to do in Amasya, tourism, traditional dishes, transportation in Amasya, travel, Turkey, Yeşilırmak River