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:

    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)

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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Notify your bank about your trip to Turkey to avoid any issues with your card being blocked for suspicious activity.

  • 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

    1. 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.
    2. Select Language:
      • Choose your preferred language for the transaction. English is widely available.
    3. Enter PIN:
      • Enter your personal identification number (PIN) as prompted.
    4. Choose Transaction Type:
      • Select the type of transaction you wish to perform. For withdrawing cash, choose the ‘Withdrawal’ option.
    5. Select Currency and Amount:
      • Choose the currency (TRY, EUR, or USD) and enter the amount you wish to withdraw.
    6. 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.

  • 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:

    1. Turkcell
    2. Avea
    3. 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:

    1. 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.
    2. Provide Identification: Be prepared to show your passport or another form of ID when purchasing a SIM card.
    3. 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.

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Top Destinations in Turkey

Explore Turkey’s top destinations, from Istanbul’s vibrant streets to Cappadocia’s unique landscapes and Antalya’s beaches.

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Trabzon, Turkey. Enjoy the vibrant scene that captures the essence of this remarkable city!

Trabzon

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A panoramic view of Aydın, Turkey, featuring ancient ruins of Tralles with temples and theaters, lush green landscapes, vibrant traditional bazaars with locals and tourists in the foreground, and a modern cityscape with contemporary buildings in the background. The sky is clear with a beautiful sunset casting a warm glow over the scene.

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A picturesque view of Burdur, Turkey, showcasing the serene Lake Burdur with its calm waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and lush greenery.

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A panoramic view of Bolu, Turkey, showcasing its natural beauty and historical landmarks. The image features the tranquil Abant Lake surrounded by lush forests, the ruins of Bolu Castle on a hill, and the picturesque Gölcük Nature Park. In the foreground, vibrant local markets with locals and tourists can be seen. The background shows the snow-capped mountains of Kartalkaya. The sky is clear with a beautiful sunset casting a warm glow over the entire scene

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Picturesque view of Kırklareli, Turkey, showcasing the historic Hızır Bey Mosque with its single minaret, traditional Ottoman-era houses, and a bustling local market.

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A picturesque view of Manisa, Turkey, showcasing the historic landmarks such as Niobe's Weeping Rock, the Red Bridge, and the Sultan Mosque, set against a backdrop of lush green hills and a clear blue sky.

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A picturesque view of Erzincan, Turkey with the Munzur Mountains in the background, Girlevik Waterfalls cascading down lush green surroundings, and the historical Tercan Mama Hatun Complex in the foreground.

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Historic Cities of Turkey

Phaselis

Patara

Ruins of Ani

Lotape

Alacahöyük

Aspendos

Assos

Halicarnassus

Priene

Sardis

Kalamaki