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.

  • 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.

  • Yes, the majority of ATMs offer English and other language options, making it easy for foreigners to navigate the transaction process.

    • Visit a Store: You can purchase a SIM card from official stores of Turkcell, Avea, or Vodafone. These stores are commonly found in airports, shopping malls, and city centers.
    • Provide Identification: Be prepared to show your passport or another form of ID when purchasing a SIM card.
    • Choose a Plan: Select a prepaid plan that suits your needs for calls, texts, and data.

  • Turkey, situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, follows the Eastern European Time (EET) zone. This time zone is GMT+2, meaning it is 2 hours ahead of London (Coordinated Universal Time (GMT/UTC)), 7 hours ahead of New York, and 10 hours ahead of Los Angeles, except during the spring-to-autumn Daylight Saving Time.

    Turkish Time Zones: Eastern European Time (EET)

    Standard Time (November to March)

    • Turkey is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+2).

    Daylight Saving Time (April to October)

    • Turkey advances its clocks by one hour, shifting to GMT+3.

    Daylight Saving Time in Turkey

    • Begins: The last Sunday in March, with clocks turned ahead one hour.
    • Ends: The last Sunday in October, with clocks turned back one hour.

    Time Comparison

    When it’s noon in Turkey, the local times in various global cities are as follows:

    Location April-October November-March
    Istanbul & Ankara 12 noon 12 noon
    Paris, Rome 11 am 11 am
    London 10 am 10 am
    New York 5 am 5 am
    Los Angeles 2 am 2 am
    Hong Kong, Perth 6 pm 5 pm
    Sydney 8 pm 7 pm
    Auckland 10 pm 9 pm

    World Time Zone Map

    A world time zone map can be highly beneficial for understanding global time differences, planning travel, or coordinating international meetings.

  • In the heart of Istanbul’s vibrant Şişli district lies Nişantaşı, a neighborhood synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Known for its upscale boutiques, refined atmosphere, and cosmopolitan vibe, Nişantaşı stands out as one of the most prestigious and expensive areas in Istanbul. It attracts the city’s wealthiest residents, discerning shoppers, and cultural enthusiasts, making it a prime destination for those seeking an elevated lifestyle.

  • If you’re planning to explore Turkey by car, here’s what you need to know about driving with a foreign driver’s license:

    Requirements for Driving in Turkey

    Foreigners can drive in Turkey under the following conditions:

    1. Valid Driver’s License:
      • You can use your foreign driver’s license in Turkey. However, it’s recommended to carry an international driver’s license (International Driving Permit – IDP) in addition to your home country license.
    2. Documentation:
      • Always carry your passport, international driver’s license (IDP), and the vehicle’s registration documents (vehicle license) while driving.

    Driving Rules and Regulations

    • Drive on the Right: In Turkey, driving is on the right side of the road.
    • Speed Limits: Pay attention to speed limits, which are clearly posted. The general speed limits are:
      • Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
      • Rural roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
      • Highways: 120 km/h (75 mph)
    • Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
    • Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
    • Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.

    Road Conditions and Driving Experience

    • Highway Network: Turkey boasts an advanced highway network, facilitating easy access to various parts of the country. The roads are generally well-maintained and signposted.
    • Toll Roads: Some highways and bridges have tolls. Make sure to have a toll payment method, such as the HGS sticker or OGS device, which can be purchased from post offices and certain banks.
    • City Driving: Driving in cities like Istanbul and Ankara can be challenging due to heavy traffic. Be prepared for congestion, especially during rush hours.
    • Rural Areas: Rural roads can be narrow and winding, so exercise caution and be mindful of local driving habits.

    Renting a Car

    If you plan to rent a car in Turkey, ensure you have the following:

    • Driver’s License and IDP: A valid driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (if required).
    • Credit Card: A major credit card for the rental deposit.
    • Insurance: Check the rental agreement for insurance coverage, and consider additional coverage for peace of mind.

    Emergency Numbers

    • Emergency Services: 112
    • Police: 155
    • Gendarmerie: 156
    • Road Assistance: 154 (for highway assistance)

  • 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 popular local GSM operators in Turkey are Turkcell, Avea, and Vodafone.

  • The minimum wage in Turkey for 2024 has been a significant topic of discussion as the country continues to navigate economic challenges. Understanding the changes in the minimum wage is crucial for both employers and employees. In 2024, the net minimum wage in Turkey is set at 17,002.12 TL, with the gross wage being 20,002.50 TL. This increase reflects the ongoing adjustments to support the workforce amidst rising living costs. In this article, we will delve into the details of the 2024 minimum wage in Turkey, its impact on the economy, and how it compares to previous years.

    Minimum Wage in Turkey for 2024

    Significant Increase in 2024 Minimum Wage

    The minimum wage in Turkey for 2024 has seen a substantial increase compared to previous years. The net wage is set at 17,002.12 TL, while the gross wage stands at 20,002.50 TL. This marks a significant rise from the second half of 2023, where the net wage was 11,402.32 TL and the gross wage was 13,414.50 TL. The increase aims to help workers cope with the rising costs of living in the country.

    Comparison to Previous Years

    To understand the significance of the 2024 minimum wage, it is essential to compare it with the figures from the past few years. In the first half of 2023, the net minimum wage was 8,506.80 TL, with a gross wage of 10,008 TL. Looking further back, the second half of 2022 saw a net wage of 5,500.35 TL and a gross wage of 6,471 TL. The consistent increases over the years highlight the government’s efforts to adjust wages in line with inflation and economic demands.

    Average Salary in Turkey for 2024

    Overview of Average Salaries

    In 2024, the average salary in Turkey has also seen adjustments in response to economic conditions. As of August 2024, the average salary for a worker in the country is approximately 23,000 TL. This figure can vary significantly depending on factors such as industry, experience, and job role.

    Worker Salaries in 2024

    Focusing on worker salaries, the average monthly wage for a worker in 2024 is around 25,784 TL. This represents a substantial increase from the previous year, where the average worker salary in 2023 was 16,428 TL. The rise in wages reflects the broader economic trends and the need to support workers in the face of increasing expenses.

    Impact of Minimum Wage Increase on the Economy

    Economic Implications

    The increase in the minimum wage for 2024 is expected to have several economic implications. On the one hand, higher wages can boost consumer spending, which is vital for economic growth. On the other hand, businesses may face increased operational costs, leading to potential price adjustments or hiring freezes. The balance between supporting workers and maintaining business sustainability will be crucial in the coming year.

    Government Policies and Support

    The Turkish government has been proactive in adjusting the minimum wage to align with inflation and economic needs. This ongoing effort to increase wages aims to improve the standard of living for workers while also stimulating the economy. However, it also requires careful management of fiscal policies to avoid adverse effects on businesses and employment rates.

    Conclusion

    The minimum wage in Turkey for 2024 has been significantly increased to 17,002.12 TL net and 20,002.50 TL gross. This rise reflects the ongoing economic adjustments and the government’s commitment to supporting the workforce. With the average salary also seeing an increase, the overall impact on the economy remains a critical area to monitor. As Turkey continues to navigate its economic challenges, these wage adjustments play a vital role in shaping the country’s financial landscape.

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Historic Cities of Turkey

Kalamaki

Sagalassos

Karahantepe, Şanlıurfa

Simena

Phokaia

Anavarza

Aphrodisias

Pergamon

Colossae

Telmissos

Xanthos

Termessos