Travel Guide - Turkey – Currency Hub

TURKEY

DESTINATION GUIDE

Turkey is a country of immense cultural and geographical diversity, straddling the continents of Europe and Asia. Renowned for its historical landmarks, Turkey is home to treasures like the ancient city of Ephesus, the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, and the iconic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Visitors can explore bustling bazaars, relax in natural hot springs like Pamukkale, or cruise along the stunning turquoise coast. Turkey’s unique blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern influences is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. With its welcoming locals, rich history, and breathtaking scenery, Turkey offers an unforgettable travel experience.

CURRENCY INFORMATION

Currency Name: Turkish Lira

Currency Code: TRY

Symbol: ₺

Coins: 1 kuruş, 5 kuruş, 10 kuruş, 25 kuruş, 50 kuruş, 1 lira

Banknotes: 5 lira, 10 lira, 20 lira, 50 lira, 100 lira, 200 lira

DAILY COST IN TURKEY

ACCOMODATION

₺300–₺800 per night for budget hotels or hostels.
₺800–₺2,000 per night for mid-range hotels or boutique stays.
₺2,000 and above per night for luxury hotels or high-end resorts.

MEALS

₺50–₺100 for a simple meal at a local eatery or street food.
₺150–₺300 for a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant.
₺400 and above for fine dining experiences.

TRANSPORTATION

₺10–₺25 for a single ride on public transportation (bus, tram, or metro).
₺40–₺70 for short taxi rides within the city.
₺500–₺1,200 per day for car rentals, depending on the type of vehicle.

SIGHTSEEING & ENTERTAINMENT

₺100–₺200 for entry to popular attractions like museums or ancient ruins.
₺300–₺600 for guided tours or unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia.
₺50–₺150 for local activities like hammam (Turkish bath) visits or boat rides.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIPS FOR TURKEY

ATMs

ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas across Turkey. Most ATMs accept international cards and offer the option to withdraw Turkish Lira or other major currencies. Withdrawal fees typically range from ₺20–₺50 per transaction. Stick to ATMs connected to major banks like İşbank, Ziraat Bank, or Garanti Bank for reliability.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

Currency exchange services are available at airports, exchange offices, and banks. While airport kiosks offer convenience, their rates are often less favorable. Local exchange offices in the city generally provide better rates with minimal fees. For the most competitive rates, consider exchanging money at Currency Hub in Knox, Melbourne, before traveling.

USING CARDS

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, hotels, restaurants, and major stores. Visa and MasterCard are commonly used, while American Express may not be accepted everywhere. Notify your bank before traveling to avoid issues with card usage and inquire about foreign transaction fees. Always carry cash for small purchases or when visiting rural areas, as not all vendors accept cards.

TURKEY MUST DO'S

EXPLORE THE ANCIENT CITY OF EPHESUS
Walk through the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater.
VISIT THE HAGIA SOPHIA IN ISTANBUL
Marvel at this iconic structure that blends Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, once a church, mosque, and now a museum.
TAKE A HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE IN CAPPADOCIA
Soar above the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys.
RELAX IN PAMUKKALE’S THERMAL POOLS
Dip into the natural travertine terraces filled with mineral-rich thermal waters.
CRUISE ALONG THE TURQUOISE COAST
Enjoy a traditional gulet boat cruise, stopping at secluded beaches and ancient ruins along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas.
EXPLORE THE GRAND BAZAAR IN ISTANBUL
Wander through one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, filled with textiles, jewelry, and spices.