Turkey Travel Essentials: Currency, Best Time to Visit & More

If you’re looking for a destination that combines history and culture with picturesque landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine, then Turkey is an obvious choice.

Officially called the Republic of Türkiye, this country sees a healthy number of tourists each year. And if you dig a bit on the internet, you’ll know why.

Turkey isn’t just a visual spectacle; it has tonnes and tonnes of things that will linger long after your visit.

Like any trip, not being sufficiently prepared can make things a nightmare.

So, to make sure nothing goes wrong during your visit, we’ve put together this piece about Turkey travel advice. From the basics, like passport requirements, to more detailed stuff, like the time to visit and currency conversion, we’ve talked about everything that might help. Continue reading!

Travel Rules UK Tourists Should Know Before Visiting

Let’s start things off with travel documents.

You can visit Turkey from the UK without a visa. UK tourists are allowed to stay in Turkey for up to 90 days in any given 180-day period. You can state the purpose as either business or tourism.

Also, the expiry date of your passport must be 150 days from your date of arrival in Turkey. Make sure your passport has at least one blank page.

However, these rules are applicable only for those with a British citizen passport. If you have any other type of passport, then it’d be wise to check with the Turkish Embassy or Consulate General before your visit.

Like any other country, Turkey also has a list of things that tourists cannot bring. They are mentioned below.

• Controlled drugs
• Firearms
• Offensive weapons
• Endangered animals and plants
• Indecent/obscene material

Self-defence sprays, also considered a self-defence weapon, are in a tricky spot. They may not be considered an offensive weapon unless they’re used aggressively. Plenty of shops in Turkey sell them. You can buy one after arrival.

Lira vs Pounds: Tips to Spend Smart While in Turkey

A Turkey travel guide would be incomplete without the mention of currency.

The Turkish lira is the official currency of the country. You can exchange GBP for Turkish lira in many spots in Turkey. We recommend stores in the Grand Bazaar and Istiklal Street in Istanbul, as they offer some of the best exchange rates.

Turkey is a cash-friendly city, so it helps to always have some cash on you. This advice is especially useful if you plan to shop in the market stalls and souks that are in the not-so-popular parts of the city.

Many spots in Turkey accept GBP. But don’t expect fair exchange rates.

The Turkish government has limits on the amount of cash you can carry out of the country. You’re free to bring any amount of cash into the country. But you’re limited to carrying $5000 (3700 GBP approx.) worth of Turkish Lira when leaving the country. Anything more than that and you’ll have to declare it with the customs authorities.

You can also pay using credit/debit cards. Here are some points to keep in mind if you plan to do so.

• Notify your bank about your visit. This prevents them from blocking the card when they see transactions from a new location.
• If you get the option to pay using Turkish Lira and GBP, choose the former. Exchange rates for GBP are usually on the higher side and often come with hidden charges.
• You can use your debit card to withdraw cash from any ATM in Turkey. But stay away from the ones at the airport. They have exorbitant exchange rates.

The Best Time to Visit Turkey

Next on our Turkey travel guide is the ideal time to visit.

Turkey has a lot of exotic spots. But visiting them at the wrong time of the year means you’ll have to deal with unpleasant weather or huge crowds.

You might also miss out on some cool sights. Snow in Cappadocia is a sight to behold, and so is spring in Istanbul.

Here is a brief about the seasons in Turkey and what you can expect.

January, February & March

Some of the coldest months of the year. Also, the least busy. Visiting during these months gives you the chance to experience breathtaking snow-covered scenery.

April & May

The best time to visit Turkey due to the pleasant weather. The crowds are on the higher side, and hotels may be expensive. You can also expect rain.

June & August

These are peak summer months. Great for visiting the beaches and taking a dip in the Mediterranean. Expect longer days. Cruises and landmarks will be busy.

September & October

Temperatures shift between hot and cold. A great time to visit to avoid the summer crowds. Autumn in Turkey is a beautiful sight, regardless of whether you’re a photographer or a nature lover.

November & December

It’s chilly during this time of the year, and as a result, popular tourist spots are generally less crowded. Expect snow and rain.

Common Travel Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Turkey

Your experience when visiting Turkey will be based on how respectful you are of the local laws and culture. Be mindful of customs and obey the law to prevent things from going south.

Here are some mistakes you should avoid to make sure your trip to Turkey goes smoothly.

Not Carrying ID

You must always carry some photographic ID when you’re in Turkey. The local authorities may stop tourists for random ID checks. Cooperate with them by showing your passport or residence permit to avoid getting into trouble.

Not Making Reservations in Advance

Book hotels/resorts in advance, especially if you plan to travel to Turkey during peak tourist season. Last-minute reservations usually cost more than usual, and you may have to compromise on location or facilities.

Hailing Taxis from the Airport

Everything at the airport is expensive. This applies to taxis as well. Avoid hailing taxis from the airport, as you’ll end up paying 5 to 10 times more than the usual price.

Engaging in PDA

Public display of affection is frowned upon in most regions. The most PDA you can resort to is hand-holding. Anything more than that, it’s recommended to do it in private.

Talking Loudly in Public Transport

Turkey has an extensive and affordable public transport system, and we suggest you use it to get around. But being loud in public transport can draw angry stares. Also, you’re expected to give up your seat for the elderly.

Eating/Drinking in Public During Ramadan

Ramadan is the holy month for Muslims and is strictly followed in Turkey. During the fasting period leading to Ramadan, tourists are expected to avoid eating or drinking in public, especially in conservative areas, like central and eastern Anatolia.

Showing Offensive Hand Gestures

Hand gestures that might be normal in some parts of the world are considered rude in Turkey. The fig and okay gestures are two examples. In Turkey, the former represents genitalia, and the latter depicts a homosexual. Tourists can get into serious trouble for using them.

Staying Connected in Turkey

You need a reliable mobile plan during your visit to Turkey. Not just to book cabs or make hotel reservations, but also to know about the timing of local events and to get in touch with friends and family back home.

Using your number without roaming benefits is not recommended. The roaming charges you’ll have to pay are not worth it.

You can get a new line instead. There are two ways you can go about this.

Buy a Local SIM Card

A point to note here is that there is a ban on the sale of eSIMs in Turkey. This means you cannot buy or activate an eSIM after you’ve landed in Turkey.

But strangely, you can use eSIMs if they’re purchased and activated outside Turkey. The websites and apps of popular eSIM providers are banned, so you may have to plan accordingly.

If you’re looking for a Turkey eSIM, then Lyca Mobile is a great option. Here are Lyca Mobile’s eSIMs for Turkey.

Plan Name

Just get one of these Turkey eSIMs from Lyca Mobile and activate it before you leave the UK. You’ll have plenty of data for your Turkey trip.

You could also get a physical SIM card from a local provider. But note that they are comparatively more expensive, and you will have to swap out your primary SIM card. The benefits you get for the price are also not worth it. Also, you will have to provide proof of accommodation and a copy of your passport when you buy a local SIM card in Turkey.

Checklist for Turkey travel

Before we wind up, we’d like to list out the essentials you should carry before you travel to Turkey. These are non-negotiables and are important for a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Travel Documents: Alongside your passport and visa (if applicable), don’t forget your travel insurance documents, proof of reservations, and flight tickets.
• Essential Medications: Carry some bandages, pain relievers, and medicines for stomach ailments along with your regular prescriptions (if any).
• Comfortable Clothing & Shoes: Pack according to the expected weather. No point in carrying rain gear if you’re visiting Turkey during summer.
• Sunscreen: Especially important if you’re planning to visit during June and August. Carry one regardless.
• Hygiene essentials: Carry toiletries and skincare products from your preferred brands.
• Anti-Theft Bag: Great for keeping your ID, cash, cards, and other similar essentials safe from pickpockets and other unsavoury elements.
• Electronics: In addition to your smartphone, charger, and headphones, make sure to carry a power bank and a universal travel adapter. A weather-resistant sleeve is useful during the rainy months.
• Credit/Debit Cards: A convenient alternative to cash, but don’t forget to inform your bank about your trip and always choose to pay in Turkish Lira if given the option.

Fina Thoughts

Certain parts of the internet may be hostile towards Turkey, but it is a beautiful country nonetheless. It has some of the best sights in the world and experiences like no other.

The issues you will find in other tourist spots are applicable to Turkey as well. But that doesn’t mean you should skip the country.

With the right precautions and our Turkey travel guide, you can have a fun trip, one that’s filled with memories.

Turkey might be a little rough around the edges, but that’s true when it comes to most destinations.

Travel to Turkey with an open mind and respect the local customs and culture. We’re sure you’ll love it!