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.
- 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.
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.
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.
If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, staying connected with your mobile phone is essential. Here’s what you need to know about using your mobile phone in Turkey:
International GSM Coverage
Many international GSM operators provide coverage in Turkey, ensuring that you can use your mobile phone seamlessly. Before you travel, it’s a good idea to check with your mobile carrier about international roaming services.
Popular Local GSM Operators:
- Turkcell
- Avea
- Vodafone
Activating International Roaming
To use your current mobile phone number and plan in Turkey, 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.
Obtaining a Local SIM Card
Alternatively, you can obtain a local SIM card upon arrival in Turkey. This option can be more cost-effective and provide better local rates for calls, texts, and data. Here’s how you can get started:
How to Get a Local SIM Card:
- 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.
Benefits of Using a Local SIM Card
- 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.
Bebek is widely regarded as the fanciest area in Istanbul. Nestled along the Bosphorus, Bebek is known for its luxurious villas, upscale residential communities, and stunning waterfront views. It is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in the city, attracting wealthy residents and offering an exclusive, high-end lifestyle. Another prestigious area is Üsküdar, where real estate prices are notably high, particularly near the Bosphorus, offering a mix of luxury villas and elegant apartments with breathtaking views.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yalova
Nestled along the eastern coast of the Sea of Marmara, [...]
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Afyonkarahisar
Afyonkarahisar, often simply called Afyon, is a captivating city nestled [...]
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Isparta
Isparta, a charming city nestled in western Turkey, is renowned [...]
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Aydın
Aydın, Turkey, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, is [...]
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Erzincan
Erzincan, a city with a rich historical tapestry and breathtaking [...]
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Giresun
Giresun: Nestled along the northeastern coast of Turkey, Giresun is [...]
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Trabzon
Trabzon, located on Turkey’s stunning Black Sea coast, is a [...]
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Konya
Konya, Turkey, often referred to as the “City of Whirling [...]
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Niğde
Niğde, a quaint yet historically rich city nestled in Turkey’s [...]
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Antalya
Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera, is a mesmerizing [...]
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Ankara
Ankara, Turkey’s vibrant capital, is a city steeped in history [...]
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Hakkâri
Hakkâri: Nestled in the rugged terrain of southeastern Turkey, Hakkâri [...]
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