Visit Turkey
Explore Turkey, Embrace Adventure
No adress data
Disclaimer
The author(s) and publisher of VisitTurkey.in have made every effort to ensure that the information on this site is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. However, they accept no responsibility or liability in contract, tort, negligence, breach of statutory duty, or otherwise for any inconvenience, loss, damage, costs, or expenses of any nature whatsoever incurred or suffered as a result of any advice or information contained on this site (except to the extent that such liability may not be excluded or limited as a matter of law).
Before traveling to Turkey, it is advisable to verify all information locally, including but not limited to transport, accommodation, shopping, and dining details. Users of VisitTurkey.in are entirely responsible for their own health, well-being, and belongings, and should always exercise caution while traveling.
Common Questions
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.
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.
Turkey, situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, follows the Eastern European Time (EET) zone. This time zone is GMT+2, meaning it is 2 hours ahead of London (Coordinated Universal Time (GMT/UTC)), 7 hours ahead of New York, and 10 hours ahead of Los Angeles, except during the spring-to-autumn Daylight Saving Time.
Turkish Time Zones: Eastern European Time (EET)
Standard Time (November to March)
- Turkey is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+2).
Daylight Saving Time (April to October)
- Turkey advances its clocks by one hour, shifting to GMT+3.
Daylight Saving Time in Turkey
- Begins: The last Sunday in March, with clocks turned ahead one hour.
- Ends: The last Sunday in October, with clocks turned back one hour.
Time Comparison
When it’s noon in Turkey, the local times in various global cities are as follows:
Location April-October November-March Istanbul & Ankara 12 noon 12 noon Paris, Rome 11 am 11 am London 10 am 10 am New York 5 am 5 am Los Angeles 2 am 2 am Hong Kong, Perth 6 pm 5 pm Sydney 8 pm 7 pm Auckland 10 pm 9 pm World Time Zone Map
A world time zone map can be highly beneficial for understanding global time differences, planning travel, or coordinating international meetings.
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.
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:
- 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.
Discover Turkey now!
Ağrı
Ağrı, Turkey, located in the eastern part of the country, [...]
Ağrı, Ağrı Ahmed-i Hani Airport, Ağrı attractions, Ağrı Kebab, Ağrı Plateau, cultural heritage, culture, Diyadin Thermal Springs, Doğubeyazıt, Eastern Anatolia, Erzurum, Göfte, hidden gem, historical landmarks, historical sites, Iğdır, Ishak Pasha Palace, Künefe, Lake Balık, local festivals, local markets, Meteor Crater, Mount Ararat, Mount Ararat National Park, natural beauty, nature, outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, things to do in Ağrı, tourism, traditional handicrafts, travel, Turkey
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
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
Denizli
Denizli is a hidden gem in Turkey, offering a blend [...]
Cleopatra hot springs, culture, Denizli, Denizli attractions, Denizli city, Denizli historical sites, Denizli landmarks, Denizli markets, Denizli natural beauty, Denizli shopping, Denizli sightseeing, Denizli to Pamukkale, Denizli tourism, Denizli travel, explore Denizli, hidden gem, Hierapolis, Hierapolis ruins, historical sites, Karahayit Red Springs, Pamukkale, Pamukkale terraces, Pamukkale thermal waters, thermal spa, thermal springs, things to do in Denizli, tourism, travel, Turkey, Turkish textiles, visit Denizli
Trabzon
Trabzon, located on Turkey’s stunning Black Sea coast, is a [...]
Akçaabat Köfte, Altındere National Park, Atatürk Mansion, Bedesten Bazaar, best time to visit, Black Sea coast, boating on Uzungöl, boutique hotels, Boztepe, budget-friendly options, Çal Cave, camping sites, culture, cycling tours, family-friendly accommodations, folk music and dance, Forum Trabzon, getting around Trabzon, Hagia Sophia, hamsi, hidden gem, hiking in the Pontic Mountains, historical sites, kuymak, local artisan shops, local festivals, local food markets, luxury hotels, Meydan Park, nature, paragliding, pide, rafting on the Fırtına River, safety tips, Sera Lake, Sumela Monastery, things to do in Trabzon, tourism, Trabzon, Trabzon attractions, Trabzon Bakırcılar Market, Trabzon Bazaar, Trabzon Castle, traditional handicrafts, travel, Turkey, Turkish Lira, Turkish tea culture, Uzungöl, Vazelon Monastery