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.
Visitors dreaming of an extraordinary vacation using Turkey’s advanced highway network should be well-informed about certain rules and regulations for their own convenience.
The unique and magnificent landscape of Turkey is waiting to be explored by vacationers ready to hit the road!
Car Rental
Car rental companies located near airport and terminal exit gates, as well as in numerous city centers and holiday resorts, will provide you with the most appropriate vehicle for a pleasant car trip.
Traffic Lanes
Turkey drives on the right-hand side of the road, as in many other countries. Drivers who frequently check their mirrors will automatically improve their safety.
Seat Belt and Child Safety Seat
Drivers and passengers are legally required to fasten their seat belts as soon as they get into the car and to wear them until they arrive at their destination. Likewise, children under the age of 7 are legally required to be seated in child safety seats for their own safety.
Drink Driving
The legal alcohol limit for drivers is limited to 0.5 promilles since drink driving is prohibited in Turkey. Drivers convicted of driving over the legal alcohol limit risk having to pay a fine of 700 TL and the suspension of their driver’s license for six months.
Mobile (Cell) Phones
Drivers are not allowed to use mobile phones while driving for their own security and that of their passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited by law, and the penalty for breaking this law is a fine of 73 TL.
Traveling to Destinations Away from Tourist Centers
Turkey is like a riddle to be solved as it hides numerous interesting spots and towns in the interior regions waiting to be explored. It is advisable to make use of a GPS device and road map and to keep an eye on the road signs at all times.
Tolls
Some of Turkey’s major highways are toll highways that can be used in return for a small fee collected at automated HGS (fast pass system) and OGS (automatic pass system) stations located at the entrance and exit of toll roads.
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, the majority of ATMs offer English and other language options, making it easy for foreigners to navigate the transaction process.
Kuruçeşme, located on the European side of Istanbul, is a favored hangout for the city’s wealthy residents and visitors. Known for its luxurious waterfront properties and upscale restaurants, Kuruçeşme offers a sophisticated atmosphere paired with stunning views of the Bosphorus. This neighborhood is a popular destination for those seeking an exclusive and elegant experience in Istanbul.
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.
Antalya is located on the Mediterranean Sea. This coastal city is situated along the Turkish Riviera, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sea, and cultural experiences.
- Cost Savings: Avoid high international roaming fees by using local rates.
- Local Number: Having a local Turkish phone number can be convenient for making reservations and contacting local services.
- Better Coverage: Local SIM cards often provide better network coverage and data speeds within Turkey.
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.
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.
Nevşehir
Nevşehir, a captivating city in central Turkey, serves as the [...]
ATV tours, Avanos pottery shops, best time to visit, boutique hotels, budget-friendly options, campsites, Cappadocia, Cappadocia Art and Craft Center, Cappadocia hot air balloon rides, carpet weaving workshops, cave dwellings, culture, cycling tours, Derinkuyu Underground City, Dolma, family-friendly accommodations, getting around Nevşehir, Göreme Market, Göreme Open-Air Museum, gözleme, hidden gem, hiking and trekking, historical sites, horseback riding, hot air balloons, Ihlara Valley, Kaymakli Underground City, local boutiques, local food markets, Love Valley, luxury cave hotels, Mantı, Nevşehir, Nevşehir attractions, paragliding, Pasabag, Pigeon Valley, Red Valley, safety tips, Testi Kebab, things to do in Nevşehir, tourism, traditional pottery in Avanos, travel, Turkey, Turkish delight shops, Turkish Lira, Turkish Night shows, Uchisar Castle, Whirling Dervishes ceremony, Zelve Valley
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
Karabük
Nestled in Turkey’s picturesque Black Sea region, Karabük is a [...]
Black Sea region Turkey, Eskipazar ancient city, Filyos River, Hadrianapolis, Karabük, Karabük attractions, Karabük climate, Karabük festivals, Karabük historical sites, Karabük museums, Karabük parks, Karabük travel guide, Kardemir Steel Works, Safranbolu UNESCO, Taurus Mountains, Turkish Black Sea cities, Turkish iron and steel industry
Ordu
Ordu, also known historically as Cotyora or Kotyora, is a [...]
ancient city Ordu, Ordu, Ordu archaeological sites, Ordu climate, Ordu culture, Ordu festivals, Ordu history, Ordu landscapes, Ordu local cuisine, Ordu museums, Ordu natural beauty, Ordu sports, Ordu tourism, Ordu travel guide, Ordu Turkey, travel Ordu, visit Ordu
Mardin
Mardin, a city perched on the southeastern edge of Turkey, [...]
ancient architecture, Arabs, Artuqid architecture, cultural festivals, culture, Deyrü'z-Zafaran Monastery, Emineddin Külliyesi, Great Mosque of Mardin, hidden gem, historical city, historical landmarks, historical sites, Kasım Pasha Medrese, Kurds, local markets, Mardin, Mardin accommodation, Mardin attractions, Mardin Bazaar, Mardin cuisine, Mardin transportation, Mesopotamia, Mor Behnam Church, old city, souvenirs, Sultan İsa Medrese, Syriac Christians, things to do in Mardin, Tigris River, tourism, traditional markets, travel, travel guide, Turkey, UNESCO
Şırnak
Şırnak, a city in southeastern Turkey, is the capital of [...]
ancient city Şırnak, Kurdish Şırnak, Şırnak, Şırnak archaeological sites, Şırnak culture, Şırnak education, Şırnak festivals, Şırnak history, Şırnak landscapes, Şırnak local cuisine, Şırnak museums, Şırnak natural beauty, Şırnak tourism, Şırnak transport, Şırnak travel guide, Şırnak Turkey, travel Şırnak, visit Şırnak
Van
Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Van, the city [...]
Akdamar Island, Armenian Kingdom of Vaspurakan, culture, Eastern Turkey, hidden gem, historical sites, Hoşap Castle, Kurdish culture, Lake Van, Muradiye Waterfall, nature, things to do in Van, tourism, travel, travel to Van, Turkey, Turkish cuisine, Urartu Kingdom, Van, Van accommodations, Van attractions, Van Castle, Van festivals, Van history, Van Kahvaltısı, Van Museum, Van tourism
Bartın
Bartın: Nestled near the Black Sea, Bartın is a picturesque [...]
accommodation, Amasra, Bartın, Bartın Castle, Bartın River, beach activities, best time to visit, Black Sea, boating, festivals, hiking, history, İnziva Cave, Küre Mountains National Park, Kuşkayası Road Monument, local cuisine, local markets, natural beauty, traditional houses, travel, Turkey
Karaman
Karaman, a city steeped in history and culture, is a [...]
Aktekke Mosque, Central Anatolia, Karaman, Karaman architecture, Karaman attractions, Karaman Castle, Karaman climate, Karaman economy, Karaman hiking, Karaman history, Karaman Museum, Karaman outdoor activities, Karaman tourism, Taurus Mountains, Turkey travel, Turkish culture, Yunus Emre
Artvin
Artvin, a charming city located in northeastern Turkey, is a [...]
accommodation, Artvin, Artvin Castle, best time to visit, bird watching, Caucasus Culture and Arts Festival, Çoruh River, cultural festivals, Deriner Dam, Double Bridge, hiking, history, honey festival, Lake Karagöl-Sahara National Park, local markets, Macahel Valley, natural beauty, Ottoman era mosques, rafting, travel, Turkey
Malatya
Malatya, a large city in the Eastern Anatolia region of [...]
ancient city Malatya, Malatya, Malatya archaeological sites, Malatya climate, Malatya culture, Malatya education, Malatya festivals, Malatya history, Malatya landscapes, Malatya local cuisine, Malatya museums, Malatya natural beauty, Malatya tourism, Malatya transport, Malatya travel guide, Malatya Turkey, Ottoman Malatya, travel Malatya, visit Malatya
Kırklareli
Welcome to Kırklareli, a city rich in history, culture, and [...]
accommodation, Balkan influences, Byzantine Greeks, cultural heritage, Demirköy Foundry, Dupnisa Cave, European Turkey, historical sites, Istranca Mountains, Kırklareli, Kırklareli Museum, local festivals, natural beauty, Ottoman era, outdoor activities, traditional festivals, travel guide, Turkey, Turkish cuisine, vineyards, wineries