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.

  • 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.

  • 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)

  • Essential Contacts for a Safe Holiday

    Turkey keeps evolving every day for the convenience of vacationers who want to spend a relaxing and pleasant holiday. Whether you’re exploring the bustling cities, enjoying the beautiful beaches, or adventuring in the great outdoors, it’s important to know the emergency numbers available to you in case of an emergency. The following is a list of emergency numbers that are available 24/7.

    Major Emergency Numbers

    112 Medical Emergency / Ambulance

    For any medical emergencies requiring an ambulance, dial 112. This number connects you to emergency medical services across Turkey.

    110 Fire

    In case of a fire, dial 110 to reach the fire department. They will provide immediate assistance to control and extinguish fires.

    155 Police

    For any situation requiring police assistance, such as crimes, disturbances, or any other public safety concerns, dial 155.

    154 Traffic

    For traffic-related emergencies, accidents, or assistance on the road, dial 154 to connect with traffic services.

    156 Gendarmerie

    The Gendarmerie handles law enforcement duties in rural areas. Dial 156 for assistance in non-urban regions.

    159 Highway Department

    For any issues or emergencies on highways, such as accidents or obstructions, dial 159 to reach the highway department.

    158 Coast Security

    For emergencies along the coast or at sea, dial 158 to connect with the coast guard for immediate help.

    113 Medical Care

    For general medical care needs that are not life-threatening, dial 113.

    114 Poison Emergency

    In case of poisoning or suspected poisoning, dial 114 to reach the poison control center for immediate advice and assistance.

    177 Forest Fire

    For forest fires or related emergencies, dial 177 to reach the forest fire department for rapid response.

    Conclusion

    Having these emergency numbers handy ensures that you can get the help you need promptly in any emergency situation. Turkey is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all vacationers, with a robust emergency response system in place. Keep this list of emergency numbers accessible during your stay for peace of mind and a relaxing holiday.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas, including airports, hotels, shopping centers, and banks.

    • 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.

A picturesque view of Bitlis, Turkey, featuring a historic medieval castle on a steep hill, surrounded by traditional stone houses with flat roofs and narrow winding streets.

Bitlis

Bitlis, a city nestled in the heart of southeastern Turkey, [...]

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Scenic view of Kütahya, Turkey with ancient ruins, traditional Ottoman houses, and vibrant ceramics market.

Kütahya

Nestled in the western part of Turkey, Kütahya is a [...]

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A panoramic view of Adıyaman, Turkey, showcasing its rich history and natural beauty. The image features the giant stone statues of Mount Nemrut at sunrise, the ancient ruins of Arsameia, and the scenic Atatürk Dam. In the foreground, locals and tourists explore vibrant markets with traditional handicrafts and enjoy local delicacies like Adıyaman Kebab. The background includes lush green landscapes and the historic Cendere Bridge spanning the Cendere River. The sky is clear with a warm sunrise casting a golden glow over the entire scene

Adıyaman

Adıyaman, Turkey, is a hidden treasure in the southeastern region [...]

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Aerial view of Karabük city with steel works and lush surrounding landscapes in Turkey’s Black Sea region

Karabük

Nestled in Turkey’s picturesque Black Sea region, Karabük is a [...]

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Scenic view of Iğdır, Turkey featuring Mount Ararat in the background, traditional architecture, and lush agricultural fields.

Iğdır

Iğdır: Nestled in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, Iğdır [...]

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A picturesque view of Artvin, Turkey featuring Lake Karagöl-Sahara National Park, the Çoruh River, and Artvin Castle on a hill.

Artvin

Artvin, a charming city located in northeastern Turkey, is a [...]

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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.

Aydın

Aydın, Turkey, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, is [...]

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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

Bolu

Bolu, Turkey, is a hidden gem nestled between Istanbul and [...]

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Antalya

Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera, is a mesmerizing [...]

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Istanbul

Istanbul, the city where East meets West, is a mesmerizing [...]

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Vibrant scene in Diyarbakır, Turkey with the Diyarbakır Fortress, Great Mosque, and bustling markets.

Diyarbakır

Diyarbakır, the largest Kurdish-majority city in Turkey, is an administrative [...]

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Scenic view of Sivas, Turkey with historical landmarks, mountains, and lush greenery.

Sivas

Sivas, known in Latin and Greek as Sebastia, is a [...]

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Historic Cities of Turkey

Assos

Halicarnassus

Anavarza

Laodikea

Letoon

Sagalassos

Knidos

Sardis

Limyra

Kültepe

Patara

Side