Money in Turkey: lira, dollars and euros

Turkey’s currency is the Turkish lira (TRY, ₺). The lira can move noticeably even during a holiday, and resorts often show prices in euros or dollars too. Here’s how to handle it.

What currency to bring

• Euros and dollars are the most convenient: they’re exchanged everywhere, and tourist places often accept them directly.
• You don’t need to buy lira in advance — exchanging in Turkey is easy and the rates are good.

Where to exchange

• Exchange offices in town (döviz bürosu) usually beat the airport and hotel desks.
• Don’t change everything at once. The lira may weaken during your trip, so exchange in parts as you go.
• Compare the rate with the market rate first. Enter the exchange office rate on the My rate tab in the app to see how many lira you’ll get.

Pay in lira or euros?

When a price is shown in both euros and lira, check which is better: sellers often round the rate in their favor. Point the price scanner at the tag or menu — the app shows the amount in your currency, so comparing is quick.

If a card terminal or ATM offers to charge you in your card’s currency instead of lira, decline. Conversion “on the spot” almost always uses a poor rate.

Cards and ATMs

Cards are accepted almost everywhere in shops, restaurants and city taxis. ATMs charge foreign cards a withdrawal fee, so withdraw less often and in larger amounts.

Prices and tipping

• Haggling at bazaars is normal.
• In restaurants, 5–10% is customary if service isn’t included.
• Tour desks and hotel shops often charge more than shops in town.

In short

1. Bring euros or dollars.
2. Exchange in town and in parts.
3. Compare euro and lira prices.
4. Pay in lira at card terminals.
5. Download rates before you go: the converter works offline.

The lira rate and rules change — check current information before the trip.