If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, you may wonder if you can use euros instead of Turkish lira. The answer is no; you cannot officially use euros in Turkey. The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira, the only currency accepted for transactions.
While some tourist areas may accept euros, it is recommended to rely on something other than this as a payment method. It is always best to exchange your euros for Turkish lira before travelling to Turkey to ensure that you have the correct currency for your transactions. Many exchange bureaus and banks offer currency exchange services, and it is easy to find one in most cities in Turkey.
Using Currency in Turkey: Practical Information
Can You Use Euros in Turkey?
While the official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira, some tourist places and luxury hotels may also accept Euros. However, using Turkish Lira for most transactions is recommended, especially in local markets and shops.
Exchange Rates and Fees
When exchanging currency, it is essential to consider the exchange rates and fees. Exchange rates can vary depending on the location and the exchange office, so it is recommended to compare rates before exchanging. Additionally, some exchange offices may charge fees or markup on top of the exchange rate, so asking about any additional charges beforehand is important.
Where to Exchange Currency
Currency exchange offices can be found in most touristic areas, airports, and major cities such as Istanbul and Adana. Banks may also exchange currency but have limited hours and longer wait times. It is recommended to exchange money at reputable exchange offices or banks to avoid scams or counterfeit bills. Our advice is to get your Lira before travelling, and use our comparison engine to get the best deal.
Credit Cards and ATMs
Credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in Turkey, especially in larger cities and touristic areas. However, checking with the merchant beforehand is important as some may not accept credit cards. ATMs can also be found throughout Turkey; most accept foreign debit cards. However, checking with your bank beforehand is important to avoid foreign transaction fees or dynamic currency conversion charges.
In conclusion, while Euros may be accepted in some places in Turkey, using Turkish Lira for most transactions is recommended. When exchanging currency, it is important to compare exchange rates and fees and exchange at reputable exchange offices or banks. Credit cards and ATMs are also widely accepted, but checking with merchants and banks beforehand is important to avoid additional charges.
The Turkish Lira: Everything You Need to Know
History and Overview
The Turkish Lira (₺) is the official currency of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It was first introduced in 1923, replacing the Ottoman lira. Over the years, the Turkish lira has undergone several changes, including the introduction of new banknotes and coins in 2005 and a currency reform in 2018 that removed six zeros from the currency.
Today, the Turkish lira is used widely throughout Turkey and is the only legal tender in the country.
Banknotes and Coins
The Turkish lira is divided into 100 kurus. Banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 lira denominations. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 kurus, as well as 1 lira.
The banknotes feature prominent Turkish figures, such as Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, and the coins feature images of historic sites and cultural icons.
Using the Turkish Lira
The Turkish lira is widely accepted throughout Turkey and is the only legal tender in the country. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most major cities and tourist areas.
When paying with cash, it is essential to note that many businesses will not accept large banknotes, such as the 200 and 500 lira notes. It is also a good idea to carry small change, as many businesses may not have change for larger denominations.
Foreign Currency in Turkey
While the Turkish lira is the only legal tender in Turkey, some businesses may accept foreign currency, such as euros or US dollars. However, it is important to note that the exchange rate may not be favourable, and using Turkish lira for transactions is generally recommended.
When exchanging money, it is best to do so at a bank or exchange office, as these will typically offer better rates than hotels or tourist areas. It is also important to check the exchange rate and any fees before exchanging money.
Overall, while it is possible to use foreign currency in Turkey, it is generally recommended to use the Turkish lira for transactions to avoid any exchange rates or acceptance issues.
