Turkey Travel Tips: Money, Tipping, Etiquette and Staying Safe

Turkey is easy to travel in, but a few local habits make a trip smoother. Here is what is worth knowing before you go.

Money and payments

• The currency is the Turkish lira (TRY). Prices can change quickly, so check rates close to your trip.
• Cards are accepted almost everywhere in cities, including many taxis and cafés.
• Keep some cash for markets, small shops, tips and public toilets.
• Use bank ATMs rather than standalone machines, and when asked, choose to be charged in lira rather than your home currency.

Tipping

In restaurants, around 5–10% is customary if service is not included. Rounding up taxi fares is common. Hotel porters and guides appreciate a small tip, but it is never compulsory.

Visiting mosques

Mosques are open to visitors outside prayer times. Cover shoulders and knees, take off your shoes at the entrance, and women should cover their hair — scarves are usually available at major mosques. Keep your voice low and avoid photographing people praying.

Bargaining

Bargaining is normal in bazaars and souvenir shops, but not in supermarkets, restaurants or shops with fixed price tags. Stay friendly and be ready to walk away — it is part of the game.

Staying safe

• Use licensed taxis or ride apps and make sure the meter is running.
• Be wary of overly friendly strangers inviting you to a bar or shop.
• Watch your belongings in crowded places such as İstiklal Avenue and trams.
• Tap water is treated, but most visitors prefer bottled water for drinking.

Getting around

Domestic flights are frequent and often affordable, long-distance buses are comfortable and cover the whole country, and high-speed trains link Istanbul, Ankara, Eskişehir and Konya. Compare all three on Perlatrip before you book.