The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish lira. Like British pounds and pence, each lira is divided into 100 kuruş.
The currency code for the Turkish lira is TRY, so look out for this if you’re ordering travel money.
Some tourist areas in major cities may accept euros but try to pay in lira wherever you can. There may be a markup if you use euros, which means you’ll pay more.
Both debit card and credit card payments are accepted all over Turkey, but you may need to pay some extra fees.
When paying by card outside the UK, you should usually have the choice between converting to British pounds at the point of sale or paying in lira.
If you have a Global Money Account, just make sure you have a pounds sterling (GBP) balance in your account and we’ll automatically convert to lira for you.
To open a Global Money Account, you’ll need to have an eligible HSBC UK current account. This excludes our Basic Bank Account, Appointee and MyAccount.
Credit cards and debit cards are accepted all over Turkey, but it’s also a good idea to have some lira with you.
If you’re visiting a market like the Grand Bazaar, you may find that cash is preferred. Haggling is also common in Turkish markets, and paying in cash helps you avoid extra card fees once you agree on a price. Bear in mind there are no HSBC fees with Global Money. Non-HSBC fees may apply.
The best place to buy Turkish lira will depend on you. If you want to start spending as soon as you land, you may want to exchange your money in the UK. This will also give you more choice on where to buy, since you can visit a travel money bureau or order online using HSBC Travel Money.
However, if you avoid high-fee exchange services (like hotels and airports), you may get a better deal in Turkey. You might find it more convenient to withdraw money from cash machines too, but you’ll usually be charged for doing this. These fees are usually 2% for debit cards and 2.99% for credit cards – but if you use your Global Money debit card to spend or withdraw cash, there will be no HSBC UK fees. Non-HSBC fees may apply.
Tipping is normal across Turkey, especially for good service in restaurants, spas and hotels. For restaurants and spas, aim for a cash tip between 10% to 15% of the price.
For hotel staff, like housekeepers and valets, a daily tip between 5 to 10 lira will be appreciated.
You won’t need to apply for a visa to visit Turkey. Once you land, your passport will be stamped, and you’ll be able to stay in the country for up to 90 days. If you’re staying longer, there’s a charge for a Turkish visa, so make sure you check the latest cost before you travel.
The time zone is Turkey Time (TRT). Turkey doesn’t observe daylight saving time, so it’s 2 hours ahead of the UK in summer and 3 hours ahead in winter.
Getting travel insurance for a trip to Turkey isn’t mandatory, but it can give you peace of mind. Travel insurance can cover you if part of your trip is cancelled or if your luggage gets lost.
Despite not being in the European Union, some insurers class Turkey as part of Europe. Other insurers class Turkey as part of their worldwide cover – like our own travel insurance.
Be sure to check with your insurer when taking out insurance for Turkey.
