What currency should I carry in Istanbul?

The lira is the official currency of Turkey and is accepted everywhere in the country. You may see prices quoted as euros in some tourist attractions in Istanbul and you can pay in euros or Turkish Lira.

What's the best currency to take to Istanbul?

In Istanbul, the official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While some businesses, especially in tourist areas, may accept Euros or USD, it is not common practice, and you may not receive a favorable exchange rate. It's generally advisable to use Turkish Lira for transactions.

Is it better to take Turkish lira or Euros?

Despite prices in the tourist shops being marked in Euros, Turkish Lira is always preferred. Any foreign currency needs changing by the merchant, at a worse rate than we can get, in order to pay rent, wages, bills, food and everything else in life.

Is it better to use card or cash in Istanbul?

90% of the time you can use your card and it is advised to do so. Because the inflation is high and govt refuses to issue new higher banknotes, you end up piling large amounts of cash in your bag to pay for dinners or shopping. Therefore in corporate shops, it is much better to stick to the card.

Can I use Revolut in Turkey?

With Revolut, you'll get fee-free ATM withdrawals within your plan's limits, whether you're at home or in Turkey.

What money should you take to Turkey? Cash or Card

Can you use British pounds in Turkey?

Yes, many places especially in areas with lots of tourists in Turkey accept British pounds.

Do you tip in Istanbul?

Tipping in Istanbul is not only a customary practice but also a way to express gratitude for good service.

How much is a meal in Istanbul?

In Istanbul, the average cost for a meal at a restaurant is about 100 Turkish Lira. A budget meal can be around 40 Lira, while a nice dinner for two can cost around 250 Lira.

Do they prefer English money in Turkey?

The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira and each lira is divided into 100 kuruş. Some businesses in tourist areas might accept other currencies as well, such as euros, US dollars or pounds sterling. Although that can seem appealing, you should know that they're most likely including a markup.

How much is a coffee in Turkey?

In neighborhood coffeehouses or small restaurants, a cup of Turkish coffee typically costs 7-20 TRY. In more popular cafés or tourist areas, this price can rise to 40-60 TRY. In luxury hotels and fine-dining restaurants, specially prepared Turkish coffee can exceed 100 TRY.

Should I get Turkish Lira or euros?

While euros might be the best currency to take to Turkey, exchange money for liras when you arrive. Avoid hotel desks and airports when possible: While they do offer currency exchange services, both resorts and terminal kiosks tend to apply a much larger exchange fee.

Do you pay tourist tax in Turkey from the UK?

From 1 January 2023, Turkey introduced a 2% tourist tax. This will already be included in the price of your accommodation if you booked your holiday this year. But if you booked before the new tax came in, check with your tour operator whether you will have to make any additional payment on check-in.

Do and don'ts in Istanbul?

Is 20 Lira a good tip?

In general, a tip of 5-10% is considered standard for good service in restaurants, cafes, and bars. For hotels, porters might expect 10-20 lira per bag, and housekeeping staff might receive 20 -50 lira per day. Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.

Is there Uber in Istanbul?

Yes. Sign in online or open your Uber app to request a ride in Istanbul, and let your driver take you where you want to go. (You might see other Istanbul transportation options available in your app, too.)

Is it better to take cash or card to Turkey?

It's usually best to have both cash and a card when travelling in Turkey. You'll need cash for small shops and markets, taxis and buses, while it's often easier to pay in hotels and restaurants with a card.

How much GBP should I take to Turkey?

How much money should I take to Turkey for a week? While it depends where you'll be going and what you'll be doing, it's recommended to take around £40 to £50 per person in spending money with you to Turkey. This makes it around £280 to £350 per person for a week's holiday in Turkey.

Can I use my phone data in Turkey?

If you have data roaming enabled and your mobile phone supports GSM technology, you'll automatically connect to a local network when you arrive in Turkey. That means you can use data to send texts, make calls, and search the internet.

Can you use contactless in Turkey?

You can pay in a variety of ways in Turkey. All shops, bars and restaurants will accept cash, and most will offer the chance to pay contactless on your credit or debit card. If you're shopping in a market or buying from street food vendors, don't expect to be able to pay on your card as most won't have the technology.

Why is Revolut not working in Turkey?

Frequently Asked Questions about Revolut in Turkey

Turkish residents cannot open a Revolut account as the service is not available in Turkey. Can I use my Revolut card in Turkey? Yes, you can use your Revolut card in Turkey for transactions and ATM withdrawals.