Türkiye

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Istanbul uses the Istanbulkart, a rechargeable transport card accepted on metros, trams, buses, ferries, funiculars and Marmaray trains. Visitors can purchase and top up cards at ticket machines near major stations.

Contactless bank cards are also accepted on many services, although fares may differ. Other cities have their own systems, including Ankarakart in Ankara, İzmirim Kart in İzmir and Antalyakart in Antalya. There is no nationwide public transport card, so travelers generally need a separate card for each city.

Türkiye uses Type C and Type F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V at 50Hz. Most European two-pin plugs work without an adapter, while travelers from the UK, US and other countries may need one. Check that your electronics support 230V before plugging them in, especially devices designed for 110–120V.

Türkiye offers several visa options depending on nationality and travel purpose. Many nationalities, including most EU citizens, can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, while others can apply for an e-Visa or a regular tourist visa through a Turkish embassy or consulate. Longer stays generally require a residence permit, while employment requires appropriate work authorization.

Digital nomads from eligible countries may qualify for Türkiye’s Digital Nomad Identification Certificate and corresponding visa process. Always check nationality-specific requirements before traveling.

Türkiye is generally safe for tourists in popular destinations such as Istanbul, Antalya, Cappadocia and İzmir, although travelers should remain alert to pickpocketing, taxi scams and overcharging in crowded tourist areas. Political demonstrations and large gatherings can become unpredictable. Terrorism and regional security tensions remain concerns, particularly near the Syrian and Iraqi borders, where travel should be avoided. Exercise caution in busy public spaces, respect local laws and customs, and check regional travel advisories before visiting.

Türkiye is highly earthquake-prone, with significant seismic risks around Istanbul, the Marmara region, the Aegean coast and eastern Anatolia. Strong earthquakes can cause widespread damage and aftershocks.

Wildfires are common during hot, dry summers, particularly along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.

Heavy rainfall can trigger flash floods and landslides, especially around the Black Sea region, while winter storms and heavy snowfall may disrupt travel inland. Tsunamis are rare but possible following major offshore earthquakes.

Follow local warnings from AFAD and emergency authorities.

ATM withdrawal fees in Türkiye vary significantly by bank and card type. Some ATMs may offer fee-free withdrawals, while others charge a percentage of the transaction.

As of October 2026, İşbank charges 9.99% and TEB charges 10% for withdrawals using foreign-issued cards.

Banks such as Halkbank and Ziraat Bankası may offer lower-cost or fee-free withdrawals, depending on the card and ATM. Your home bank may also charge additional fees. Always review the displayed charges and decline dynamic currency conversion, choosing Turkish lira (TRY) instead of your home currency.