
Turkey is a shopper's paradise, and you'll want to make sure you have the right currency to take advantage of the great deals. The Turkish Lira, or TRY, is the official currency of Turkey and it's widely accepted everywhere you go.
You can exchange your money for Turkish Lira at the airport, a currency exchange office, or a bank. Be aware that exchange rates can vary greatly depending on the location and the service provider.
To get the best exchange rate, it's a good idea to have some local currency with you when you arrive in Turkey. You can also use ATMs to withdraw Turkish Lira, but be aware of any fees associated with this service.
Discover more: Turkey Currency Lira to Inr
Understanding Turkish Lira
The Turkish Lira is the official currency of Turkey, abbreviated as TRY or symbolized as ₺, and has been in use since 1923.
You'll need cash for small shops, markets, taxis, and buses, while hotels and restaurants often accept card payments.
The Turkish Lira has undergone changes over the years, including a significant revaluation in 2005 when the New Turkish Lira (TRY) replaced the old Turkish Lira (TRL).
Euros are often accepted in Turkey, and it's 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 a convenient way to convert pounds to lira and euros, and you can easily top up your card with more currency on the go.
Here's a rough guide to daily expenses in Turkey:
These prices are approximate, but they'll give you an idea of what to expect.
Managing Your Money in Turkey
It's essential to have a combination of cash and a card when traveling to Turkey, as some small shops and markets may only accept cash. You'll also need cash for taxis and buses.
Cash is widely accepted in Turkey, and you can exchange euros or US dollars into Turkish lira at banks, authorized currency exchange offices, or ATMs. However, be mindful of foreign transaction fees and potential withdrawal limits when using ATMs.
For another approach, see: When Is the Best Time to Take Sucontral D?
You can exchange currency at banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs, but it's best to avoid exchanging money at airports due to unfavorable rates and high markups. Consider using a prepaid travel card or a debit card that can convert your pounds to lira automatically with a small conversion fee.
It's a good idea to have a mix of both cash and cards, as some businesses may only accept cash, and others may have limited card acceptance in smaller towns and the countryside.
Turkey Travel Guide
The Turkish lira is the country's official currency, divided into 100 kuruş.
You can exchange your money for Turkish lira at a currency exchange office or withdraw it from an ATM.
Some businesses in tourist areas might accept other currencies like euros, US dollars, or pounds sterling, but be aware that they often include a markup.
It's generally recommended to stick to Turkish lira to avoid unnecessary exchange fees and additional charges.
Carrying the local currency with you will make your transactions smoother and more convenient.
Changing Money
You'll need to exchange your money for Turkish lira once you arrive in Turkey. Currency exchange offices, known as "Döviz Bürosu", are widely available in major cities, airports, and tourist areas. They offer competitive rates, but be sure to check the rates and fees before exchanging your money.
Banks in Turkey also offer currency exchange services, though they may have limited hours and higher fees compared to exchange offices. ATMs are a convenient way to withdraw Turkish lira, but be mindful of foreign transaction fees and potential withdrawal limits.
Here are some options to consider:
- Currency Exchange Offices: Competitive rates, but check the rates and fees before exchanging money.
- Banks: Limited hours and higher fees, but a secure option for exchanging money.
- ATMs: Convenient, but be aware of foreign transaction fees and potential withdrawal limits.
It's generally not necessary to exchange currency before traveling to Turkey, especially if you have a Wise debit card. However, you can bring a small amount of Turkish lira just in case you need it for something upon arrival.
Payment Options in Turkey
When traveling to Turkey, it's essential to know your payment options to avoid any inconvenience. Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, hotels, restaurants, and major retail stores. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards.
You can also use your debit card or mobile wallet, which are used almost equally in Turkey, accounting for around 20% of transactions. However, it's still a good idea to have some cash on hand, as it's accepted everywhere and essential for things like tipping or shopping at local bazaars.
If you're trying to stay on budget, consider using a prepaid travel card or a debit card with no foreign transaction fees. Some cards, like the Wise debit card, can even convert your pounds to lira automatically, with only a small conversion fee.
Here are some popular payment methods in Turkey:
- Credit cards (used for over 40% of transactions)
- Debit cards (used for around 20% of transactions)
- Mobile wallets (used for around 20% of transactions)
- Cash (accepted everywhere and essential for certain transactions)
Remember to inform your bank about your trip to avoid having your card blocked for suspicious activity. And, of course, always choose to pay in the local currency when asked to avoid any unnecessary exchange fees.
Estimated Costs
Your money goes a long way in Turkey, where most things cost significantly less than at home.
You can expect to save money on food, drinks, experiences, and shopping, making it a great destination for budget-conscious travellers.
Market sellers offer imitation designer goods at affordable prices, including clothing, bags, and sunglasses, but be aware that you may not be buying the real thing.
Keep in mind that prices are generally lower compared to the UK, allowing you to stretch your pound further.
Shopping and Souvenirs
If you plan on doing some shopping in local markets or souvenir shops, it's a good idea to have some Turkish Lira on hand.
Cash is often preferred in these settings, so make sure to have a small amount of Turkish Lira for purchases.
In some markets, prices may be negotiable, and having cash on hand can make the process smoother.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping with cash in local markets:
- Make sure to have a small amount of Turkish Lira for purchases.
- Having cash on hand can make price negotiation smoother.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Shopping in local markets or souvenir shops often prefers cash, so it's a good idea to have some Turkish Lira on hand for purchases.
In some markets, prices may be negotiable, and having cash can make the process smoother.
To be prepared, consider bringing a small amount of Turkish Lira with you to local markets or souvenir shops.
Having cash can also give you an advantage in price negotiations, making it easier to get a good deal.
Ready to Buy?
You can exchange your money for Turkish lira at currency exchange offices or banks, but be aware that you might not get the best exchange rate.
The Turkish lira is the official currency of Turkey, and you'll need it to buy souvenirs and pay for services.
Ready to buy some Turkish lira? You can also discover more background information about currency exchange in Turkey / Türkiye.
You can pay with credit cards at many shops and restaurants, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Some shops and markets may not accept credit cards, so it's a good idea to have some local currency with you.
Suggestion: Were Not Here to Take Part?
Sources
- https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/turkey/turkey-and-currency
- https://www.travelex.co.uk/travelex-hub/travel-guides/turkey/what-currency-does-turkey-use
- https://www.advantour.com/turkey/currency.htm
- https://www.magnificenttravel.com/en/blog/turkey/currency-used-in-turkey-a-comprehensive-guide-for-travelers/
- https://wise.com/gb/blog/best-currency-to-take-to-turkey
Featured Images: pexels.com