It's often a good idea to take a combination of Lira and euros in cash and currency on the Travelex Money Card. The Travelex Money Card is an easy way to convert pounds to lira and euros. Depending on what currency is being used more you can easily top up your card with more currency on the go.
The best currency to take to Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY), as it is the official currency and widely accepted for all transactions. While some places, especially in tourist areas, may accept euros or US dollars, using the local currency will typically provide better exchange rates and make transactions easier.
Is it better to take cash or use a card in Turkey?
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. In some settings, however, cash is still the valid option.
Some vendors in Istanbul may accept euros, but it's always best to travel with lira in your pocket so you can be sure that you can pay everywhere you go.
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.
What money should you take to Turkey? Cash or Card
Is it better to exchange money before going to Turkey?
Exchange rates are almost always better if your currency exchange is done in Turkey, and a good strategy is to take enough local currency for your first day or so, and change the rest once you arrive.
Is it better to take Turkish lira or euros in 2025?
It's the only legal tender in Turkey. Local shops, transport services, and restaurants mostly deal in Lira. Paying in Lira avoids the poor exchange rates offered at shops that accept Euros.
To avoid high fees, always withdraw money in Turkish Lira (TRY). If you withdraw in other currencies (like Euros or USD), the ATM will apply dynamic currency conversion, resulting in poor exchange rates and extra fees. Withdrawing money with a debit card may be cheaper than using a credit card.
Allpoint is a network of over 55,000 ATMs worldwide that provide surcharge-free cash access for participating banks, credit unions and prepaid card providers.
Tipping is expected in Turkey and leaving a 10-15% tip on your bill in a restaurant is generally an acceptable amount. When it comes to other areas of the service industry, such as taxis and hairdressers, rounding up the fare is a nice gesture but not obligatory.
What money is used in Turkey? The currency is Turkish Lira (Türk Lirası). This is the official tender used in the whole country. You will see how much things cost quoted with TL or TRY and the symbol ₺.
In Turkey, you can pay with the Turkish Lira (TRY). One Turkish Lira cent is called “kurus”. Euros and Sterling are also accepted in many places. But pay attention to what you pay exactly.
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.
Is it best to buy Turkish Lira in the UK or Turkey?
As long as you avoid the airport, and other high-fee exchange services like hotel front desks, you'll get a better deal if you buy your lira in Turkey. If you're nervous about turning up with no cash in your pocket, exchange a small amount at home and seek out the best deals after you arrive.
Food and Restaurants: Prices vary widely based on location and type of dining. Enjoying a meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost around 50 TRY, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant might set you back about 300 TRY. Supermarket Shopping: Prices in supermarkets are reasonable.
Due to the exchange rate practice, Turkiye has one of the lowest drug prices in Europe. There is a significant difference in the reference price of a product in Euros, which forms the basis for prices in Turkiye, and the actual price in Turkish lira because of the exchange rate.
This tax is not included in the room rate and must be paid at your hotel at check-in or check-out. Please note, a tourist tax is payable in Euros (€) for all guests aged 16 and over and applies to stays up to a maximum of five consecutive nights. This is to be paid directly to your hotel.
