12:33 am
+3h from you
Weather in Turkey
Turkey
17°
Slight rain
Sun
7
17
Mon
7
12
Tue
5
10
Wed
4
11
Thu
3
9
SPF level in Turkey
Recommended: SPF 50
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 50
Autumn
SPF 30
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Turkey
Language in Turkey
Tipping in Turkey
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Turkey. Locals often round up the bill or leave a small amount as a token of appreciation for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% for good service. It is not uncommon to round up the bill instead.
Bar/Café
Round up the bill or leave a few extra lira.
Taxi
Round up the fare.
Hotel Porter
10-20 TRY per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
20-50 TRY per day, left at the end of your stay.
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price for a good tour.
Safety & security in Turkey
Tips for British travellers
Turkey is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Carry your passport or residence permit at all times as it is illegal not to carry photographic ID.
Be aware of street robbery and pickpocketing in major tourist areas by keeping your personal belongings secure.
Only drink alcoholic drinks from reputable sources to avoid methanol poisoning, which can be fatal.
When swimming, understand the beach flag system and follow lifeguard instructions, as a red flag means you must not enter the water.
Use registered taxis, note the registration number before entering, and ensure the fare is metered to stay safe.
Bonus tips:
Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them to avoid drink or food spiking.
Smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places.
Driving in Turkey
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: Turkey drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
155
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Turkey
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, hotels, and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. Smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Turkey
ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. You may find fewer ATMs in rural locations.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Most ATMs accept international cards. Be aware of potential transaction fees charged by your bank and the local ATM.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the EU roaming regulations no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider about roaming charges in Turkey. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper rates.
Local SIM data package
20GB for 300 TRY (~£7)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, Türk Telekom
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in urban areas and tourist destinations. However, the quality and speed may vary.
Average speed
30 Mbps
Free WiFi is commonly offered, but it's often slower than paid services. Mobile data is a reliable alternative, so consider getting a local SIM card.
Health & vaccinations
Make sure you have a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you travel. These cards allow you to access state-provided healthcare in Turkey at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. However, GHIC/EHIC is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation, repatriation, and other unexpected costs.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. Be cautious about food hygiene, especially from street vendors. The tap water is generally not safe to drink. Avoid intense sun exposure and stay hydrated. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell as heatstroke is common.
Calling Turkey
Country code
+90
To call Turkey from the UK, dial 00 90 followed by the local number.
To call a number in Ankara, you'd dial 00 90 312 XXX XX XX.
The country code for Turkey is 90. When calling from abroad, dial the exit code of your country, followed by 90, and then the local number. Mobile phone coverage is generally good in urban areas.
UK Embassy in Turkey
British Embassy Ankara
Şehit Ersan Caddesi 46/A, Çankaya, Ankara, Turkey
Airports in Turkey
Frequently asked questions about Turkey
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.