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Tourism Turkey: Top Travel Spots and Tourist Attractions
Tourism Turkey: Top Travel Spots and Tourist Attractions

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Visit Turkey network of websites has been designed to be accessible to all web users, irrespective of individual abilities and browser type. This statement gives information about accessibility features, and levels of conformance to industry standards.

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See Accessible Turkey for information about accessible Turkey hotels, attractions and travel in Turkey

Common Questions

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Mersin, with its charming towns of Erdemli and Silifke, is often celebrated as one of Turkey’s most beautiful cities. Known for its breathtaking Mediterranean coastline, Mersin offers a mix of pristine beaches perfect for relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing. Beyond its unspoiled natural beauty, Mersin also boasts numerous beach resorts with top-notch facilities and a variety of water sports, making it a top destination for beach lovers and vacationers alike.

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

Discover Turkey now!

A scenic view of Bayburt, Turkey featuring the Çoruh River, Bayburt Castle on a hill, lush green landscapes, and traditional houses along the riverbank.

Bayburt

Bayburt, a charming city in northeast Turkey, is situated along [...]

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Scenic view of Malatya, Turkey with ancient ruins, apricot orchards, and modern cityscape.

Malatya

Malatya, a large city in the Eastern Anatolia region of [...]

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A panoramic view of Ağrı, Turkey, showcasing its natural and historical landmarks. The image features the majestic Mount Ararat with its snow-capped peak, the ancient Ishak Pasha Palace with its intricate architecture, and the serene Lake Balık surrounded by lush greenery. In the foreground, locals and tourists explore vibrant markets with traditional handicrafts and enjoy local delicacies like Ağrı Kebab. The background includes the vast Ağrı Plateau and the historic Cendere Bridge spanning a river. The sky is clear with a beautiful sunset casting a warm glow over the entire scene.

Ağrı

Ağrı, Turkey, located in the eastern part of the country, [...]

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A picturesque scene of Mersin, Turkey, showcasing its beautiful Mediterranean coast, bustling marina, and cityscape with modern and historic buildings.

Mersin

Mersin, a bustling port city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is [...]

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Realistic view of Hasankeyf, Batman - Turkey, showcasing ancient ruins along the Tigris River with rock-cut houses and the Zeynel Bey Mausoleum.

Batman

Welcome to Batman, a city that holds a unique charm [...]

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Surrounded by seas on three sides and blessed with an inland sea and lakes, Turkey has a cuisine that makes extensive use of seafood in its recipes. Turkish seafood recipes and their local versions, both in the northern and southern parts of Turkey, have become cornerstones of Turkish cuisine.

Diverse Seafood Delicacies

Seafood Preparation Methods

Turkish seafood is prepared using various methods to enhance its natural flavors. Whether seasoned with vegetables, herbs, and spices, and either grilled, steamed, or fried, seafood is a versatile component of Turkish dishes. It is often used in soups, salads, pastas, and even as a main ingredient in appetizers.

Examples of Seafood Dishes

Fish Soup

A staple in Turkish seafood cuisine, fish soup is made with fresh fish, vegetables, and a blend of spices. This hearty and nutritious soup is perfect for warming up on a cool day.

Bonito with Vegetables

Bonito, a type of fish abundant in Turkish waters, is often cooked with a medley of fresh vegetables and herbs. This dish is typically baked or steamed, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Pilaf with Anchovies

Pilaf with anchovies is a unique and flavorful dish where rice is cooked with anchovies, creating a savory blend. This dish is particularly popular in the Black Sea region.

Baked Trout

Baked trout is a simple yet delicious dish, where the fish is seasoned with herbs and spices, then baked to perfection. It is often served with a side of fresh vegetables or salad.

Fried Mussels

Fried mussels, known as “midye tava,” are a popular street food in Turkey. Mussels are battered and deep-fried until golden and crispy, then typically served with a tangy garlic sauce.

Octopus Stew

Octopus stew is a flavorful dish made with tender octopus cooked slowly with tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. This hearty stew is often enjoyed with a side of crusty bread.

Stuffed Squid

Stuffed squid is a delightful appetizer where squid is filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, then baked or grilled. The result is a tender and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the squid.

Baked Gilthead Fish

Baked gilthead fish, also known as “çipura,” is a popular dish in Turkish seafood cuisine. The fish is typically seasoned with olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then baked until tender and juicy.

Conclusion

Turkey’s rich coastal environment and abundance of fresh seafood have given rise to a diverse and flavorful seafood cuisine. From hearty fish soups to savory pilafs with anchovies and elegant dishes like baked trout and stuffed squid, Turkish seafood recipes offer something for every palate. Whether enjoyed in a coastal town or a bustling city, these dishes reflect the bounty of Turkey’s seas and the creativity of its culinary traditions.

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