Turkey Travel Guide — Currency, Costs & Culture (2026)

Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY), symbol: ₺. Capital city: Ankara. Region: Middle East / Europe. Primary language: Turkish.

Government & practicalities: Head of state: Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (President). Government type: Presidential Republic. International calling code: +90. Drives on the Right. Power outlets: Type C/F, 230V. Internet domain: .tr.

What $100 USD typically buys in Turkey

• 🥙 22 doner kebab wraps
• ☕ 65 glasses of Turkish tea
• 🚌 72 Istanbul bus rides
• 🕌 Entry to several museums (many are free)
• 🧆 41 street snacks

Daily travel budgets in Turkey

Budget travelers: ~5–45 USD/day (hostels, street food). Mid-range travelers: ~5–150 USD/day (mid hotels, restaurants). Luxury travelers: ~00+ USD/day (boutique hotels, fine dining).

Typical local prices in TRY

• Street kebab wrap: ₺100–200
• Turkish tea (çay): ₺20–50
• Restaurant meal: ₺300–600
• Istanbul metro ride: ₺30–50
• Budget hostel/night: ₺500–900
• Mid-range hotel/night: ₺2,000–5,000

Cultural tips for visitors to Turkey

• 🕌 Remove shoes before entering mosques and dress modestly — women should cover their hair.
• 🤝 Handshakes standard; close friends embrace and kiss cheeks.
• 🍵 Accepting tea from shopkeepers carries no obligation to buy.
• 👁 The evil eye (nazar) is a popular cultural talisman.

Tipping customs in Turkey

Tipping is customary — 10% in restaurants is standard. Round up taxi fares. USD and Euros often appreciated.

Useful phrases in Turkish

• Merhaba (Mehr-hah-bah) — Hello
• Teşekkür ederim (Teh-shek-kur eh-deh-reem) — Thank you
• Ne kadar? (Neh kah-dar) — How much?
• İmdat! (Eem-dat) — Help!

Traditional foods to try in Turkey

• Doner kebab
• Mezze spread
• Baklava
• Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı)
• Lahmacun (flatbread pizza)
• Turkish tea
• Turkish delight
• Kofte

Major landmarks and attractions in Turkey

• Hagia Sophia (Istanbul)
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Cappadocia rock formations
• Ephesus ancient ruins
• Pamukkale thermal pools
• Grand Bazaar

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey

• Historic Areas of Istanbul
• Göreme National Park (Cappadocia)
• Ephesus
• Hierapolis-Pamukkale
• Troy

Safety information for Turkey

Turkey is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal caution in crowded areas. Check current travel advisories for the southeast.

Visa information for Turkey

Many nationalities including UK, US, and EU citizens require an e-Visa (evisa.gov.tr). Currently around 0–60 USD.

Emergency numbers in Turkey

police: 155, ambulance: 112, fire: 110, tourist: 174

Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and vary by city, season, and travel style. Exchange rates and costs are for informational purposes only. Always verify visa requirements and safety conditions with official sources before travel. Information current as of 2026.