Money and payments
Lira, cards, cash and tipping — how paying works in Turkey.
The Turkish lira
Turkey's currency is the Turkish lira (TRY, ₺). Prices are almost always shown in lira, and paying in lira is the simplest choice everywhere. Exchange rates move often, so check a current rate before you travel rather than relying on old figures.
Cards and cash
Contactless cards and phone payments work in most hotels, restaurants, shops and museums in cities and resorts. Keep some cash for small cafés, markets, village shops and tips. When a card terminal or ATM offers to charge you in your home currency, choose lira — your own bank's conversion is usually the better deal.
ATMs and exchange offices
Bank ATMs are everywhere and most accept cards from abroad, sometimes with a fee shown on screen before you confirm. Exchange offices (döviz bürosu) in city centres generally offer better rates than airport counters and display their rates openly.
Bargaining and tipping
- In bazaars and markets a friendly bit of bargaining is part of the experience; in shops, supermarkets and restaurants prices are fixed.
- Restaurants: if service isn't included, leaving around 5–10% is a kind gesture.
- Taxis: rounding up the fare is common.
- Hammam attendants, hotel staff and guides appreciate a small tip in cash.
Rules and prices change — for entry requirements always check the official sources mentioned here.