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.

Where do rich people hang out in Istanbul?
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.
What is the most visited city in 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.
What’s the Best Currency to Bring to Turkey: Pounds, Liras, or Something Else?
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.
Frequently Asked Questions for Travelers in Turkey
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.
What should I do before traveling to Turkey to use ATMs?
Notify your bank about your trip to Turkey to avoid any issues with your card being blocked for suspicious activity.
How do I get a local SIM card in Turkey?

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.
Can I use my international mobile phone in Turkey?
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.
Taxi Fare Increase in Ankara: What You Need to Know
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.
Are there daily withdrawal limits at ATMs in Turkey?
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.

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