Turkey is affordable for Western travelers. Daily budget: $40–$70 budget, $80–$150 mid-range, $200+ comfort. The lira is volatile — check exchange rates before you go. Use ATMs for the best rate, cards are widely accepted.
Best for most travelers: Use a no-foreign-transaction-fee debit/credit card. Withdraw lira from ATMs. Keep cash for bazaars, dolmuş, and small vendors.
The Turkish lira (₺, TRY) has experienced significant depreciation in recent years. This makes Turkey excellent value for travelers with USD, EUR, or GBP — but exchange rates can shift.
How to get the best rate:
ATM withdrawal — Best exchange rate. Use bank ATMs (not independent machines). Decline the "conversion" option — always choose to be charged in Turkish lira.
Card payments — Widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shops. Use a no-foreign-transaction-fee card.
Airport exchange — Convenience at a cost. The rate is worse than ATMs. Only exchange a small amount for initial taxi/transport.
Bazaar exchange offices — Rates vary. Compare before exchanging. They're better than airports but worse than ATMs.
Recommendation: Carry a mix. Use cards for hotels and restaurants. Keep $6–$15 in cash for daily expenses (transit, street food, tips, small purchases).
