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.
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:
- 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.
- 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)
- Valid Driver’s License:
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.
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.
Yes, the majority of ATMs offer English and other language options, making it easy for foreigners to navigate the transaction process.
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.
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.
When traveling to Turkey, it’s important to be aware of the country’s strict laws regarding drugs and controlled substances. Turkey has a zero-tolerance policy towards the possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs, and the penalties for violating these laws can be severe, including long prison sentences.
However, there are certain legal drugs that tourists can possess and use in Turkey, provided they follow the appropriate guidelines. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Prescription Medications
- Allowed Medications: Tourists are allowed to bring prescription medications into Turkey, but only if they are for personal use. The medications must be prescribed by a doctor and should be accompanied by a valid prescription. It is advisable to carry the prescription or a doctor’s note, ideally translated into Turkish, to avoid any issues at customs.
- Controlled Substances: Some prescription medications that are considered controlled substances (such as those containing codeine, strong painkillers, or certain psychiatric medications) require special permission to bring into Turkey. It is important to check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling to ensure compliance with local regulations.
2. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
- Availability: Over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, paracetamol), cold and flu remedies, and antihistamines, are widely available in pharmacies across Turkey. Tourists can purchase these medications without a prescription.
- Restrictions: While most OTC medications are legal, it is important to be cautious about bringing large quantities into the country. Carrying more than a personal use amount could raise suspicions and may require explanation.
3. Herbal Remedies and Supplements
- Herbal Products: Many herbal remedies and dietary supplements are available and legal in Turkey. These include products like herbal teas, vitamins, and natural supplements. However, tourists should ensure that any herbal products they bring into the country do not contain ingredients that are classified as controlled substances in Turkey.
4. Prohibited Substances
- Illegal Drugs: All forms of recreational drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and ecstasy, are illegal in Turkey. Possession, use, or trafficking of these substances is a serious criminal offense, and penalties can include heavy fines, imprisonment, and deportation.
- Unprescribed Medications: Possessing medications without a prescription, especially those that are controlled substances, can also lead to legal trouble. Tourists should never attempt to bring or buy prescription drugs in Turkey without a valid prescription.
5. Medical Cannabis
- Not Legal: Medical cannabis is not legal in Turkey. Tourists who use medical cannabis in their home countries should be aware that bringing it into Turkey, even with a prescription, is illegal and can result in severe penalties.
Key Takeaways for Tourists
- Always carry prescription medications in their original packaging, along with a valid prescription.
- Be cautious about bringing large quantities of any medication or supplement into Turkey.
- Avoid any involvement with illegal drugs, as Turkey has strict drug laws with harsh penalties.
- If in doubt, consult with the Turkish embassy or consulate before your trip to ensure you comply with all regulations.
Understanding and adhering to Turkey’s drug laws will help ensure a safe and trouble-free visit. For more detailed information about traveling to Turkey, visit the Travel Guide of Türkiye.
- 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.
When traveling to Turkey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local currency to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here is a comprehensive guide to the Turkish Lira and tips on handling money during your stay.
The Turkish Lira: Overview
Official Currency
The official currency of the Republic of Turkey is the Turkish Lira, abbreviated as TL. The Turkish Lira is divided into subunits called kuruş.
Currency Denominations
- Paper Currency: Comes in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 TL notes.
- Metal Currency: Available in 5, 10, 25, and 50 kuruş coins, and 1 Lira coins.
Design Features
- Front Face: Images of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic, adorn the front face of all money notes.
- Back Side: The reverse side of the notes features prominent names and places from Turkish culture.
Exchanging Currency
Conversion
Currencies of foreign countries can be converted into Turkish Lira at exchange offices and banks. The daily exchange rate is determined by the Turkish Central Bank.
Widely Accepted Currencies
Apart from Turkish Lira, strong currencies such as the U.S. Dollar and Euro are widely accepted by large shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants. However, it is advisable to carry some Turkish Lira with you at all times for your convenience, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
Tips for Handling Money in Turkey
- Carry Turkish Lira: Always have some Turkish Lira on hand for small purchases and in areas where foreign currencies are not accepted.
- ATMs and Credit Cards: ATMs are widely available and allow withdrawals in Turkish Lira. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, but having cash can be handy.
- Exchange Rates: Check the current exchange rates and compare options at different exchange offices and banks to get the best rate.
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.
Aksaray
Aksaray, a city with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking [...]
accommodation, Aksaray, Aksaray Grand Mosque, Aksaray Museum, best time to visit, Çanlı Kilise, Güzelyurt, history, Ihlara Valley, Kapadokya Nevşehir Airport, Luna Park, Mount Hasan, natural beauty, Red Minaret Mosque, Salt Lake, Seljuk architecture, Sultan Han, travel, Turkey, Umbrella Street
Adana
If you’re looking for a destination that combines rich history, [...]
Adana, Adana accommodation, Adana attractions, Adana culture, Adana festivals, Adana food, Adana highlights, Adana historical sites, Adana kebab, Adana markets, Adana natural beauty, Adana outdoor activities, Adana Sabancı Merkez Mosque, Adana Seyhan River, Adana shopping, Adana Stone Bridge, Adana tips for travelers, Adana tourism, Adana travel, attractions, cuisine, culture, hidden gem, historical sites, things to do in Adana, tourism, travel, Turkey, Visit Adana
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
Adıyaman
Adıyaman, Turkey, is a hidden treasure in the southeastern region [...]
Adıyaman, Adıyaman Airport, Adıyaman attractions, Adıyaman Kebab, Adıyaman Museum, ancient ruins, Arsameia, Atatürk Dam, Cendere Bridge, Çiğ Köfte, culinary delights, cultural heritage, culture, Gaziantep, hidden gem, historical sites, International Nemrut Kommagene Festival, Kahta, Karakuş Tumulus, local markets, Mount Nemrut, natural beauty, outdoor activities, Perre Ancient City, Şanlıurfa, scenic landscapes, tatlı, things to do in Adıyaman, tourism, traditional handicrafts, travel, Turkey
Giresun
Giresun: Nestled along the northeastern coast of Turkey, Giresun is [...]
Aksu Festival, Black Sea, Blue Lake, Cerasus, Cherry Festival, Giresun, Giresun Castle, Giresun Island, Giresun Museum, hazelnuts, highland pastures, historical sites, history, Kerasous, Kuzalan Falls, Ottoman houses, outdoor activities, tourism, Turkey, Turkish cuisine, Zeytinlik neighborhood
Muş
Muş, a captivating city in eastern Turkey, is rich with [...]
ancient city Muş, Muş, Muş archaeological sites, Muş culture, Muş education, Muş festivals, Muş history, Muş landscapes, Muş local cuisine, Muş museums, Muş natural beauty, Muş tourism, Muş transport, Muş travel guide, Muş Turkey, Ottoman Muş, travel Muş, visit Muş
Batman
Welcome to Batman, a city that holds a unique charm [...]
ancient Caria, Batman, Batman Airport, Batman province, Batman University, cultural heritage, festivals, Hasankeyf, historical ruins, Kurdish culture, Mediterranean climate, Menteşe dynasty, oil industry, scenic views, Tigris River, tourism, transportation, travel destination, Turkey, Zeynel Bey Mausoleum
Burdur
Nestled in the heart of southwestern Turkey, Burdur is a [...]
ancient history, ancient ruins, Burdur, Burdur Archaeological Museum, Burdur attractions, Burdur Camel Wrestling Festival, Burdur cuisine, Burdur festivals, Burdur International Classical Music Festival, Burdur province, Burdur şiş, Byzantine era, ceviz ezmesi, cultural heritage, culture, Dündar Bey, Early Bronze Age, Grand Mosque, Grand Mosque of Burdur, Hamidids, hidden gem, historical sites, İnsuyu Cave, Kınalı tribe, Lake Burdur, Mediterranean climate, Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, natural landscapes, Oghuz Turks, Ottoman Empire, Pisidia, Polydorion, population exchange, Sagalassos, Salda Lake, Seljuq victory, southwestern Turkey, things to do in Burdur, tourism, travel, travel destination, Turkey, Turkish city, Turkish settlement
Siirt
Siirt, a city located in southeastern Turkey, is a blend [...]
ancient city Siirt, Ottoman Siirt, Siirt, Siirt archaeological sites, Siirt culture, Siirt education, Siirt festivals, Siirt history, Siirt landscapes, Siirt local cuisine, Siirt museums, Siirt natural beauty, Siirt tourism, Siirt transport, Siirt travel guide, Siirt Turkey, travel Siirt, visit Siirt
Hatay
Hatay Province, the southernmost province of Turkey, is a region [...]
Antakya, Antakya International Film Festival, Antioch, archaeological sites, baklava, Byzantine Empire, Crusaders, cuisine, cultural heritage, culture, festivals, Giresun Island, Handicrafts, Hatay, Hatay Archaeological Museum, Hatay attractions, Hatay Gastronomy Festival, Hatay kebab, Hatay travel guide, hiking, historical sites, history, hummus, Levant, Mediterranean, Mediterranean cuisine, natural beauty, nature, Nur Mountains, Orontes River, Roman Empire, Seleucid Empire, Seljuks, tourism, travel, Turkey, Turkish cuisine, visit Hatay
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
Şanlıurfa
Şanlıurfa, 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