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.
Notify your bank about your trip to Turkey to avoid any issues with your card being blocked for suspicious activity.
You will need to activate the international roaming function. Contact your GSM operator to:
- Confirm that your phone will work in Turkey.
- Understand the costs associated with international roaming.
- Activate the international roaming service before you travel.
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.
Turkey has long been known as a budget-friendly destination, attracting travelers with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and affordable prices. However, like any country, Turkey’s cost of living and travel expenses can fluctuate due to various factors such as inflation, currency exchange rates, and economic conditions. As of 2024, Turkey remains relatively affordable for most travelers, but there are some nuances to consider.
1. Currency Exchange Rates
- Turkish Lira (TRY): The Turkish Lira has experienced significant volatility in recent years. In 2024, the exchange rate remains favorable for tourists coming from countries with stronger currencies like the Euro, US Dollar, or British Pound. This makes Turkey an attractive destination where your money can stretch further, especially compared to Western Europe.
2. Accommodation Costs
- Affordable Options: Turkey continues to offer a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels and resorts. Prices can vary significantly depending on the location and time of year, but in general, travelers can still find affordable lodging, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas.
- City vs. Rural: Major tourist cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia may have seen some price increases, especially in prime tourist areas. However, rural destinations and less touristy cities often remain much cheaper.
3. Food and Dining
- Street Food and Local Restaurants: Turkey is famous for its delicious and affordable street food, such as döner kebabs, börek, and simit. Eating at local restaurants (lokantas) is also very budget-friendly, with meals often costing a fraction of what you’d pay in Western countries.
- Dining in Tourist Areas: While prices in tourist hotspots can be higher, they are still generally lower than in many European destinations. Dining in less touristy neighborhoods will provide a more authentic experience at a lower cost.
4. Transportation
- Public Transportation: Turkey’s public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metros, remains very affordable. Domestic flights are also relatively cheap, especially with low-cost carriers offering competitive prices.
- Car Rentals and Taxis: Car rentals can be a cost-effective option for exploring the country, particularly for groups. Taxis are more expensive but still cheaper than in many Western countries, especially if you use local apps or ride-sharing services.
5. Shopping and Souvenirs
- Local Markets: Shopping in Turkey, especially in local markets and bazaars, can still be a bargain. Handmade crafts, textiles, and spices are popular items that are reasonably priced.
- High-End Stores: High-end and international brands can be more expensive, particularly in upscale areas of cities like Istanbul. However, these prices are often still competitive compared to those in Western Europe or North America.
6. Tourist Attractions
- Historical Sites and Museums: Entrance fees to Turkey’s many historical sites and museums are generally modest, though there have been some increases in recent years. However, they still offer excellent value for the cultural and historical experience they provide.
- Guided Tours: Organized tours can vary in price, but there are many affordable options available, particularly for group tours or off-season travel.
Conclusion: Is Turkey Still Cheap in 2024?
Turkey remains a relatively cheap destination for travelers in 2024, especially for those who are savvy about where and how they spend their money. While prices have risen in some areas, particularly in major tourist cities, the overall cost of travel, food, and accommodation is still lower than in many other countries. By exploring less touristy areas, eating at local restaurants, and taking advantage of public transportation, travelers can enjoy a rich and diverse experience in Turkey without breaking the bank.
For more travel tips and updated information on costs, be sure to check out the Travel Guide of Türkiye.
The popular local GSM operators in Turkey are Turkcell, Avea, and Vodafone.
Visitors can withdraw money in Turkish Lira (TRY) as well as Euros (EUR) and U.S. Dollars (USD) from many ATMs across Turkey. However, Turkish Lira is the most commonly dispensed currency.
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, many international GSM operators provide coverage in Turkey. It’s advisable to check with your mobile carrier about international roaming services before you travel.
ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas, including airports, hotels, shopping centers, and banks.
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.
Sivas
Sivas, known in Latin and Greek as Sebastia, is a […]
ancient city Sivas, Ottoman Sivas, Sivas, Sivas archaeological sites, Sivas culture, Sivas education, Sivas festivals, Sivas history, Sivas landscapes, Sivas local cuisine, Sivas museums, Sivas natural beauty, Sivas tourism, Sivas transport, Sivas travel guide, Sivas Turkey, travel Sivas, visit Sivas
Erzurum
Erzurum, often called the gateway to Eastern Turkey, is a […]
Cağ Kebab, cultural heritage, culture, Eastern Anatolia, Eastern Turkey, Erzurum, Erzurum attractions, Erzurum Castle, hidden gem, historical sites, historical sites Turkey, Kadayıf Dolması, Narman Fairy Chimneys, Palandöken, Palandöken Mountain, skiing, things to do in Erzurum, Tortum Waterfall, tourism, travel, travel tips Turkey, Turkey, Turkey travel, Turkish cuisine, Twin Minaret Madrasa, Winter Sports Festival, Yakutiye Madrasa
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
Trabzon
Trabzon, located on Turkey’s stunning Black Sea coast, is a […]
Akçaabat Köfte, Altındere National Park, Atatürk Mansion, Bedesten Bazaar, best time to visit, Black Sea coast, boating on Uzungöl, boutique hotels, Boztepe, budget-friendly options, Çal Cave, camping sites, culture, cycling tours, family-friendly accommodations, folk music and dance, Forum Trabzon, getting around Trabzon, Hagia Sophia, hamsi, hidden gem, hiking in the Pontic Mountains, historical sites, kuymak, local artisan shops, local festivals, local food markets, luxury hotels, Meydan Park, nature, paragliding, pide, rafting on the Fırtına River, safety tips, Sera Lake, Sumela Monastery, things to do in Trabzon, tourism, Trabzon, Trabzon attractions, Trabzon Bakırcılar Market, Trabzon Bazaar, Trabzon Castle, traditional handicrafts, travel, Turkey, Turkish Lira, Turkish tea culture, Uzungöl, Vazelon Monastery
Bingöl
Bingöl, a city in Turkey’s eastern Anatolia region, is a […]
accommodation, best time to visit, Bingöl, Bingöl Castle, Bingöl Culture and Art Festival, Bingöl Museum, boating, cultural festivals, fishing, Floating Island, Gayt River, hiking, history, local delicacies, Mount Bingöl, natural beauty, skiing, Sülbüs Mountain, traditional crafts, traditional cuisine, travel, trekking, Turkey, winter sports, Yüzen Ada
Yozgat
Nestled in the heart of Central Anatolia, Yozgat is a […]
ancient civilizations, Bozok Stadium, Çapanoğlu Mosque, Central Anatolia, Kerkenes Plateau, Kusaklu Tumulus, Ottoman era Yozgat, travel Turkey, Yozgat, Yozgat attractions, Yozgat climate, Yozgat Clock Tower, Yozgat Ethnography Museum, Yozgat history, Yozgat Pine Grove National Park, Yozgat tourism, Yozgat travel guide
Izmir
Izmir, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Aegean,” […]
Aegean coast, Agora of Smyrna, Alsancak, Atatürk Museum, beaches, boyoz, Çeşme, cuisine, culture, Ephesus, Foça, historical sites, Izmir, Izmir Archaeological Museum, Izmir European Jazz Festival, Izmir International Fair, Kemeraltı Bazaar, Konak Square, Kordon, kumru, Mount Sipylus, Pearl of the Aegean, Pergamon, Spil Mountain National Park, tourism, travel, Turkey
Hakkâri
Hakkâri: Nestled in the rugged terrain of southeastern Turkey, Hakkâri […]
adventure travel, Assyrian heritage, Cilo Mountains, Hakkâri, Hakkâri attractions, Hakkâri City, Hakkâri history, Hakkâri travel guide, historical sites, Kurdish cuisine, Kurdish culture, Kurdish festivals, Kurdish tribes, Naqshbandi order, Newroz festival, outdoor activities, Sat Mountains, Şemdinli, southeastern Turkey, traditional Kurdish food, travel enthusiasts, trekking, Turkey, Turkey travel, visit Hakkâri, Zap Valley
Şanlıurfa
Åžanlıurfa, often referred to as the “City of Prophets,” is […]
ancient city, Balıklıgöl, Birecik, culture, day trips from Şanlıurfa, Dergah Complex, Göbekli Tepe, Gümrük Han, Harran, hidden gem, historical sites, Şanlıurfa, Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, Şanlıurfa attractions, Şanlıurfa Bazaar, Şanlıurfa city center, Şanlıurfa cuisine, Şanlıurfa festivals, Şanlıurfa music, Şanlıurfa nights, things to do in Şanlıurfa, tourism, travel, Turkey, Urfa Castle
Kars
Kars, a city steeped in history and culture, sits in […]
Ani Ruins, culture, hidden gem, historical sites, historical sites in Kars, Kars, Kars accommodation, Kars attractions, Kars cuisine, Kars day trips, Kars festivals, Kars natural wonders, Kars tourism, Kars travel guide, things to do in Kars, tourism, travel, travel to Kars, Turkey, visiting Kars, winter tourism
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
TekirdaÄŸ
TekirdaÄŸ, a city located on the north coast of the […]
ancient city TekirdaÄŸ, Ottoman TekirdaÄŸ, TekirdaÄŸ, TekirdaÄŸ archaeological sites, TekirdaÄŸ culture, TekirdaÄŸ education, TekirdaÄŸ festivals, TekirdaÄŸ history, TekirdaÄŸ landscapes, TekirdaÄŸ local cuisine, TekirdaÄŸ museums, TekirdaÄŸ natural beauty, TekirdaÄŸ tourism, TekirdaÄŸ transport, TekirdaÄŸ travel guide, TekirdaÄŸ Turkey, travel TekirdaÄŸ, visit TekirdaÄŸ