Can I use the local cash machines?

Cash machines (ATMs) are accessible throughout Turkey, accepting major European credit and bank cards and directions are often possible in English. It is advisable to inform your bank in advance that you are travelling to Turkey as some will automatically put a pause on cards after the first use in an try to combat fraud.

Can I use my credit card?

International credit and debit cards are widely taken in shops and restaurants everywhere Turkey. However, it is advisable also to carry cash for the smaller shops and cafes, particularly in more rural areas.

What is the local currency?

The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL) available in the following sections: banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50,100 and 200 TL; coins: 10, 25 & 50 kurus and 1 TL. Cash can usually exchange without commission at bureau de changes (döviz), banks and hotels. Exchange rates are published daily in Turkish newspapers and can also be found in website of Turkish Central Bank at http://www.tcmb.gov.tr (please click “bugün” under “TCMB Döviz Kurları” on the left column).

What should visitors dress in Turkey?

There are no difficult and fast rules, but it is best to use natural sense when choosing what to wear. If staying at a beach resort, it is fine to dress as you feel happy. For city breaks, comfortable clothing is the most suitable for comfortable shoes and casual trousers and a dress if you plan to do lots of walkings. When visiting mosques you should take off your shoes at the door and ladies should cover their hair; often scarves are given on the way. Both sexes should dress simply with no shorts and arms and shoulders covered during visits to mosques.

Can I drive in Turkey ?

Driving in Turkey is on the right-hand side as in continental Europe and visitors may drive with an international driving licence. You should have your driving licence, your passport and insurance documents of the vehicle with you. All of the major international car rental companies, as well as a number of local ones, have offices at airports and all major centres.

What is the mains supply voltage, will I need an adaptor?

The mains voltage for electricity is 220V and 50Hz. Central European type wall socket (two-pin plugs) is standard in Turkey.

Do I need to know Turkish in order to communicate?

English is Turkey's second widest spoken language, and you will easily find English speakers in the major cities and holiday resorts. Restaurant menus and other information for foreigners are often printed in English.

Will I be able to use my mobile phone in Turkey?

The major GSM operators in Turkey are Turkcell, Vodafone and Avea. You can use your mobile phone in Turkey if your provider has enabled international roaming. However, if you intend to stay for a long time in the country or make several calls, it may be preferable to buy a local prepaid SIM card. Take your mobile phone and passport to a Turkish mobile phone shop where your new SIM will registered along with your handset's IMEI number and your personal information. (Unregistered phones will be blocked and unable to receive or make calls.) Turkey has very wide mobile coverage networks so you shouldn’t have any problems in the main cities and tourist resorts.

What are the opening times for shops and other services?

Museums: 9 AM to 17 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. Pharmacies: 9 AM to 19 PM, Monday to Saturday. 24-Hour duty pharmacies are available on a rota basis that the names and addresses can found in any pharmacy.) Banks: 9 AM to 17 PM, Monday to Friday. (Some close for lunch break.) Post Offices: 9 AM to 17 PM, Monday to Friday. (Extended hours applied for peak periods at major Holiday Destinations). Shopping Centres are open seven days a week and stay open until late.

What is the time difference?

Turkey is GMT+2; that is to say, two hours ahead of the UK and one hour of the Central Europe.

Can I use traveller’s cheques?

Traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at banks, some large hotels and bureau de changes (döviz).

Is any vaccination required for tourists entering Turkey?

There are no compulsory vaccinations for visitors entering Turkey though it is a good idea to be up-to-date with polio, tetanus, typhoid and if you are travelling to the east of the country.

Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?

While planning your trip to Turkey do not forget to check your passport if it is valid for at least 90 days. Depending on your nationality, most probably your stay as a tourist is limited up to 3 months (for one entrance).For tourist visas for many countries, there is no need to apply in advance or to fill in any forms. However, please check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website http://www.mfa.gov.tr for updated information and information on which passport holders may require a visa before leaving their country. You may also check with the Turkish Embassy in your country for the latest visa updates. The visa for UK passport holders currently costs £10 and must be paid for with a Sterling note. The visa fee for USA and Australian passport holders is $20/€15. Canadian passport holders need to pay $60/€45. The visa fee for New Zealand passport holders is gratis. The visa for some EU state-passport holders currently costs € 10 and must be paid for with a Euro note.Visas are multiple entries and are valid for three months. Each passport-holder, including infants, must purchase a visa. With tourist visas, you will not have the right to take up paid or unpaid employment or to reside or to study (including student exchange program) or to establish yourself a business in Turkey.