What currency is used in Turkey?
In Turkey, we use the Turkish Lira, which is our official currency. Besides, there are many exchange offices and banks in every city where you can easily exchange foreign currencies.
How is the transportation in Turkey?
Transportation in Turkey is varied and very easy. There are many municipal buses in every city, and trams, subways and buses in big cities. Most cities have airports and bus terminals. There are frequent flights and bus services between cities. It is also possible to reach some cities by train. Private car rental services are also quite common and developed.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
Citizens of most countries are exempt from visa requirements for 30 to 90 days upon entry to Turkey. Longer stays are subject to a residence permit. To get the most accurate information depending on your country of citizenship, you can visit the English website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by clicking on the link below.
https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa
Do local people speak English?
While the number of English speakers is relatively higher in large cities and among the young population, this number decreases in small cities and among the elderly population. But don’t worry, most Turks are sympathetic to foreign visitors and will always find a way to communicate with you.
Is there an expat community in Turkey?
Yes, there are expat communities in Turkey, especially in the big cities, which include citizens from many different countries. These communities also keep in touch through online networks.
Is Turkey a secular or Islamic country?
The majority of Turkey’s population is Muslim, but Turkey is not governed according to Islamic rules. As stated in our constitution, the Republic of Turkey is a secular state.
Is Turkey family friendly and safe?
Despite what is portrayed in the media and despite the ongoing conflicts in countries close to us, yes, Turkey is a safe country. You can come and stay here with your children, either as a tourist or as a resident. However, as in any country, you should be cautious with strangers in Turkey and be more careful when out late at night.
Is Turkey a part of the European Union?
Discussions between Turkey and the EU have been ongoing for many years and Turkey is not an EU member at this stage.
For more information, please click on the link below to visit the official English page of the Directorate for EU Affairs.
What if I fall ill during my visit?
Turkey has a large number of public hospitals, private hospitals and family health centers. If you have private health insurance, you can benefit from health services according to the scope of your insurance. If you do not have insurance, you can benefit from health services for a fee. If you encounter an emergency, you can benefit from ambulance service by calling 112. You can call 182 or visit http://www.hastanerandevu.gov.tr to make an appointment at public hospitals. You can also buy medicines from pharmacies, but be aware that heavy medicines such as antibiotics are sold with a prescription.
What kind of sockets are used in Turkey? Should I bring an adaptor with me?
Turkey operates on 220 volts, 50 Hz, European two-pin sockets as everywhere in continental Europe. Depending on your country of origin, it is useful to bring an adaptor.
How should I dress in Turkey?
This varies from city to city. Along the coastline in the west of Turkey you can wear shorter clothes, but inland and in the east you may want to dress a little longer and more conservatively for your own comfort. And, no, you don’t have to have a headscarf in Turkey unless you enter a mosque.
Is alcohol consumption legal in Turkey?
Yes, alcohol consumption is legal in Turkey and you can find alcohol in most markets and restaurants.
Do people in Turkey live in the desert and ride camels?
No, this is a complete Hollywood fallacy. There is a very small part of Turkey that is a desert. Almost all of our cities are developed modern cities. In some tourist areas you can see a couple of camels just for taking a photo for a short ride.
Can I use my mobile phone in Turkey?
Yes, you can use your phones for 120 days without any problems. After that, you’ll need to register your device if you’re going to use a Turkish phone number. You can only register your device if you have a foreign ID number.
Are there food and beverage options for vegetarians and vegans?
Unfortunately, Turkish cuisine is little known around the world. We have many delicious dishes other than kebabs and baklava, and Turkish cuisine is rich in vegan and vegetarian options. The number of such restaurants is increasing, especially in big cities.
The Turkish Handbook 