Turkey Travel & Emergency Guide

Emergency Numbers in Turkey

Key Travel Facts

Driving Rules & Speed Limits in Turkey

Toll & Vignette: HGS electronic toll system for highways (Otoyol) and Bosphorus bridges/tunnels. HGS RFID stickers are purchased at PTT post offices or gas stations. Cash is not accepted at toll gates!

Tipping & Etiquette

Recommendation: 5 to 10 percent customary in restaurants & cafes. In restaurants & cafes, 5–10% tip (Bahşiş) is customary. Leave cash on the table or bill box (card tips often don't reach waiters). Round up taxi fares to the nearest 10 or 20 Lira. Tip hotel porters around 20–50 TRY per bag.

• DO Cover shoulders & knees when entering mosques; women should also cover hair with a scarf (remove shoes before entering).
• DO Accept offered tea (Çay) graciously – tea is the universal symbol of Turkish hospitality and respect.
• DO Haggle politely on bazaars for carpets, leather goods & souvenirs – it's part of the culture.
• DO Keep some cash (Turkish Lira or small Euro notes) handy for tips (Bahşiş), small stalls, or public restrooms.
• DON'T NEVER speak disrespectfully or critically of state founder Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, national symbols, or currency.
• DON'T Do NOT export stones, fossils, old coins, or artifacts from nature or historical sites – strict cultural heritage law (heavy prison sentence!).
• DON'T Do not walk through town centers or villages in swimwear or beach clothes.
• DON'T Do not take photos of locals (especially women, elders, or people praying) without asking politely first.

Power Sockets & Tap Water

Plug Type & Electricity: Type C & F (Europlug / Schuko, 230V, 50Hz – identical to DE & AT, no travel adapter needed!).

Tap Water: Tap water in Turkey is heavily chlorinated and should NOT be used for drinking. Always use bottled water (Su) for drinking and brushing teeth.

Insider Tip: Get an 'İstanbulkart' (or 'Antalyakart' in Antalya) for public transport – it saves huge time and money on metros, ferries, and buses. Don't miss a Bosphorus ferry ride at sunset!