Turkey Reiseguide
Viktig reiseinformasjon — nødnumre, sikkerhet, valuta, visum, skikker og hvordan komme seg rundt.
Turkey is generally safe for tourists, especially in major cities and popular tourist regions. However, like any country, petty crime can occur. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Political demonstrations can occur, and it's advisable to avoid them.
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Type C and Type F (two round pins)
Tipping is customary in Turkey. In restaurants, 5-10% is appreciated for good service. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common. For hotel staff, a small tip (e.g., 5-10 TRY) for porters or housekeepers is appropriate.
Local SIM cards are readily available from major providers like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom at airports, official stores, and some kiosks. Bring your passport for registration. Tourist SIM packages often include data, calls, and texts. Be aware that phones purchased outside Turkey may be blocked after a certain period (e.g., 120 days) unless registered with a Turkish IMEI. An eSIM might be a more convenient option for short visits.
Many nationalities require an e-Visa which can be obtained online prior to arrival. Some countries are visa-free for short stays. Check the official Turkish e-Visa website or consult your local Turkish embassy/consulate for specific requirements based on your nationality.
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Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have extensive public transport networks including metros, trams, buses, and ferries (especially in Istanbul). Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card used across all public transport. Public transport is generally efficient and affordable.
BiTaksi (popular local taxi app), Uber (operates in some cities, often integrating with local taxis)
Turkey has an excellent intercity bus network, which is the most common and affordable way to travel between cities. High-speed trains (Yüksek Hızlı Tren - YHT) connect major cities like Ankara, Istanbul, Eskişehir, and Konya. Domestic flights are also a popular and time-saving option for longer distances, with Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines being major carriers.
- • Hospitality is highly valued; Turks often offer tea or coffee as a sign of welcome.
- • Always remove your shoes before entering a private home or a mosque.
- • Bargaining is common and expected in markets (bazaars) but not in shops with fixed prices.
- • Show respect for elders.
- • Do not point with your finger; a gentle nod or open hand gesture is preferred.
In general, casual wear is acceptable. However, when visiting mosques or religious sites, women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees, and men should wear long trousers. Modest dress is appreciated in conservative areas.
Turkey is a secular country, but Islam is the predominant religion. When visiting mosques, women should cover their heads and wear loose-fitting clothes that cover arms and legs. Men should wear long trousers. Everyone must remove their shoes before entering. Be respectful during prayer times (ezan) and avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
Football (soccer) — Football is by far the most popular sport, with a passionate fan base and rivalries between major clubs like Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş. Traditional oil wrestling (Yağlı Güreş) is also culturally significant. Basketball and volleyball also have a strong following.
October 29
Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı)
Commemorates the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. Celebrated with parades, fireworks, and national festivities across the country.
Varies (Islamic lunar calendar)
Ramadan Feast (Eid al-Fitr / Ramazan Bayramı)
Marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. A three-day public holiday where families gather, exchange gifts, and visit cemeteries. Known as 'Şeker Bayramı' (Sugar Feast) due to the tradition of offering sweets.
Varies (Islamic lunar calendar)
Sacrifice Feast (Eid al-Adha / Kurban Bayramı)
The second major Islamic holiday, commemorating Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son. A four-day public holiday involving animal sacrifice, sharing meat with family, friends, and the needy, and family visits.
April 23
National Sovereignty and Children's Day (Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayramı)
A unique holiday dedicated to children, commemorating the first gathering of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in 1920. Celebrated with children's festivals, performances, and parades.