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.
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 kuruÅŸ.
Currency Denominations
- Paper Currency: Comes in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 TL notes.
- Metal Currency: Available in 5, 10, 25, and 50 kuruÅŸ 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.
- 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.
Turkey, a country rich in history and natural beauty, offers a variety of transportation options for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you’re planning to explore the bustling cities, historical sites, or serene coastal towns, Turkey’s extensive transport network can cater to all your travel needs. Here’s a detailed look at the various modes of transport available in Turkey.
Travel by Plane
Domestic Flights
Turkey’s vast size makes air travel a convenient option for covering long distances. Turkish Airlines and several other competent carriers, such as Onur Air, Atlasjet, Anadolu Jet, Pegasus Air, and Sun Express, offer frequent flights between major cities. Domestic flights are relatively inexpensive, with most fares ranging from TL89 to TL250 one-way. Major airports are well-connected, making air travel a time-efficient way to move around the country.
Major Airports and Codes
- Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
- Ankara EsenboÄŸa Airport (ESB)
- Antalya Airport (AYT)
Travel by Bus
Modern Bus Network
Turkey boasts a robust network of modern, luxurious buses that connect cities and towns across the country. This mode of transport is particularly popular among locals. Although it might be challenging to find fare and schedule information online, it’s easy to obtain once you’re in Turkey. Bus departures are frequent, and advanced reservations are generally not necessary on most routes.
Sample Routes and Travel Times
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 450 km (280 miles), 6-7 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Izmir: Approximately 480 km (300 miles), 7-8 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Antalya: Approximately 720 km (450 miles), 10-12 hours by bus.
Travel by Car
Car Rentals
For those who enjoy the freedom of movement and are comfortable driving, renting a car is an excellent option. However, it’s essential to note that most rental cars have a manual transmission (“stick shift”), not automatic. Renting a car allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace.
Driving Tips
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Always carry your driver’s license, international driving permit, and vehicle registration documents.
- Be aware of local traffic rules and regulations.
Travel by Train
High-Speed Trains
Turkey is rapidly expanding its high-speed train network, aiming to connect 15 cities that hold half of the country’s population. These trains offer a fast, comfortable, and affordable way to travel between major cities. Notable routes include:
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 4-5 hours.
- Ankara to Konya: Approximately 1.5 hours.
Conventional Trains
Conventional trains are also available and can be a more economical option. Although slower than buses, they offer more seating room and comfort.
Useful Resources
- TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş.: The official site for Turkish State Railways, providing schedules and booking options.
Travel by Ship & Ferry
Cruise Ships
Cruise ships frequently dock at Turkish ports, including Istanbul and Kuşadası, providing easy access to popular destinations like Ephesus.
Sea of Marmara Ferryboats
Ferry services across the Sea of Marmara connect Istanbul with Yalova and Bandırma, offering a scenic and relaxing mode of travel.
Dardanelles Ferries
Ferries across the Dardanelles Strait link Europe and Asia, connecting key historical sites such as Çanakkale, Troy, and the Gallipoli battlefields.
Greek Islands—Turkey Ferries
Regular ferry services connect Greek islands with the Turkish coast. Check schedules and fares on Feribot.net.
Cyprus—Turkey Ferries
Ferries operate year-round between Girne (Kyrenia) in Northern Cyprus and Turkish ports like TaÅŸucu/Silifke, with additional services to Alanya in the summer.
Tips for Traveling During Major Holidays
Travel can be particularly crowded during major Turkish holidays. It’s wise to plan and book your transportation in advance during these peak periods to ensure availability and avoid long waits.
Turkey, a country rich in history and natural beauty, offers a variety of transportation options for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you’re planning to explore the bustling cities, historical sites, or serene coastal towns, Turkey’s extensive transport network can cater to all your travel needs. Here’s a detailed look at the various modes of transport available in Turkey.
Travel by Plane
Domestic Flights
Turkey’s vast size makes air travel a convenient option for covering long distances. Turkish Airlines and several other competent carriers, such as Onur Air, Atlasjet, Anadolu Jet, Pegasus Air, and Sun Express, offer frequent flights between major cities. Domestic flights are relatively inexpensive, with most fares ranging from TL89 to TL250 one-way. Major airports are well-connected, making air travel a time-efficient way to move around the country.
Major Airports and Codes
- Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
- Ankara EsenboÄŸa Airport (ESB)
- Antalya Airport (AYT)
Travel by Bus
Modern Bus Network
Turkey boasts a robust network of modern, luxurious buses that connect cities and towns across the country. This mode of transport is particularly popular among locals. Although it might be challenging to find fare and schedule information online, it’s easy to obtain once you’re in Turkey. Bus departures are frequent, and advanced reservations are generally not necessary on most routes.
Sample Routes and Travel Times
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 450 km (280 miles), 6-7 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Izmir: Approximately 480 km (300 miles), 7-8 hours by bus.
- Istanbul to Antalya: Approximately 720 km (450 miles), 10-12 hours by bus.
Travel by Car
Car Rentals
For those who enjoy the freedom of movement and are comfortable driving, renting a car is an excellent option. However, it’s essential to note that most rental cars have a manual transmission (“stick shift”), not automatic. Renting a car allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace.
Driving Tips
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Always carry your driver’s license, international driving permit, and vehicle registration documents.
- Be aware of local traffic rules and regulations.
Travel by Train
High-Speed Trains
Turkey is rapidly expanding its high-speed train network, aiming to connect 15 cities that hold half of the country’s population. These trains offer a fast, comfortable, and affordable way to travel between major cities. Notable routes include:
- Istanbul to Ankara: Approximately 4-5 hours.
- Ankara to Konya: Approximately 1.5 hours.
Conventional Trains
Conventional trains are also available and can be a more economical option. Although slower than buses, they offer more seating room and comfort.
Useful Resources
- TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş.: The official site for Turkish State Railways, providing schedules and booking options.
Travel by Ship & Ferry
Cruise Ships
Cruise ships frequently dock at Turkish ports, including Istanbul and Kuşadası, providing easy access to popular destinations like Ephesus.
Sea of Marmara Ferryboats
Ferry services across the Sea of Marmara connect Istanbul with Yalova and Bandırma, offering a scenic and relaxing mode of travel.
Dardanelles Ferries
Ferries across the Dardanelles Strait link Europe and Asia, connecting key historical sites such as Çanakkale, Troy, and the Gallipoli battlefields.
Greek Islands—Turkey Ferries
Regular ferry services connect Greek islands with the Turkish coast. Check schedules and fares on Feribot.net.
Cyprus—Turkey Ferries
Ferries operate year-round between Girne (Kyrenia) in Northern Cyprus and Turkish ports like TaÅŸucu/Silifke, with additional services to Alanya in the summer.
Tips for Traveling During Major Holidays
Travel can be particularly crowded during major Turkish holidays. It’s wise to plan and book your transportation in advance during these peak periods to ensure availability and avoid long waits.
- Insert your debit or credit card into the ATM. Most ATMs in Turkey accept international cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and Cirrus.
- Choose your preferred language for the transaction. English is widely available.
- Enter your personal identification number (PIN) as prompted.
- Select the type of transaction you wish to perform. For withdrawing cash, choose the ‘Withdrawal’ option.
- Choose the currency (TRY, EUR, or USD) and enter the amount you wish to withdraw.
- Confirm the transaction and collect your cash, receipt, and card from the machine.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The popular local GSM operators in Turkey are Turkcell, Avea, and Vodafone.
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.
Bolu
Bolu, Turkey, is a hidden gem nestled between Istanbul and [...]
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Tokat
Tokat, a city nestled in the mid-Black Sea region of [...]
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Diyarbakır
Diyarbakır, the largest Kurdish-majority city in Turkey, is an administrative [...]
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Elazığ
Nestled in the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey, Elazığ is [...]
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Mardin
Mardin, a city perched on the southeastern edge of Turkey, [...]
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Tunceli
Tunceli, a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, [...]
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Balıkesir
Balıkesir, a city nestled in the Marmara region of Turkey, [...]
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Karaman
Karaman, a city steeped in history and culture, is a [...]
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Adana
If you’re looking for a destination that combines rich history, [...]
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Hakkâri
Hakkâri: Nestled in the rugged terrain of southeastern Turkey, Hakkâri [...]
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Yozgat
Nestled in the heart of Central Anatolia, Yozgat is a [...]
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Bitlis
Bitlis, a city nestled in the heart of southeastern Turkey, [...]
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