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Explore Turkey

Ancient sites, warm hospitality, and daily life shaped by tea, markets, and conversation.

Turkey connects Europe and Asia through layered history, generous hospitality, rich food, and lively bazaars. Turkish greetings and thank-yous go a long way, especially in smaller towns and family-run restaurants.

Phrases Quick Mode Culture Tipping

Quick facts

LanguageTurkish

CurrencyTurkish Lira (TRY)

Emergency112

PaymentCards are common in cities and hotels

Essential phrases

All phrases

Hello

Merhaba

Mer-ha-ba

Please

Lütfen

Loot-fen

Thank you

Teşekkür ederim

Te-shek-kur e-de-rim

Excuse me

Affedersiniz

Af-fe-der-si-niz

Cultural norms

All tips

Tea is social glue

Hospitality

Accepting tea can be a friendly gesture in shops and homes. It does not always obligate you to buy, but be clear and polite if you are browsing.

Bargaining belongs in markets

Shopping

Haggling is expected in bazaars and some souvenir shops, but not in malls, supermarkets, restaurants, or fixed-price stores.

Dress respectfully at mosques

Etiquette

Cover shoulders and knees. Women should carry a scarf for mosque visits. Remove shoes before entering prayer areas.

Tipping guide

Full guide

Tipping is customary in restaurants and tourism. Around 5-10% is common at restaurants; small cash tips are appreciated by hotel staff and guides.

Restaurants

5-10%

Customary where service is good

Check whether a service charge is already included before adding more.

Taxis & rideshares

Round up

Round up or small tip

For longer rides or driver assistance with luggage, add a small amount.

Hotel staff

Small local-currency notes

Appreciated

Tip porters, housekeeping, or concierge staff for helpful service.

Tour guides

5-10% or local equivalent

Expected for good service

Private guides and full-day tours generally merit a larger tip.

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