What Currency Does Turkey Use? A Traveler’s Guide to Money in Türkiye
Planning to explore Turkey? Maybe you’re flying over fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, shopping in Istanbul’s bazaars, or kicking back by the coast in Antalya. Whatever your trip looks like, you’ll definitely need to know: What currency does Turkey use? Here’s everything travelers need to know to spend smart in this unique crossroad of East and West.
The Official Currency of Turkey
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira as its official currency.
- Currency name: Turkish Lira
- Currency code: TRY
- Symbol: ₺ or TL
- Subunit: 1 Lira = 100 kuruş
So if you see ₺100, that means 100 Turkish Lira – the national currency used throughout the country.
What’s the Exchange Rate?
The exchange rate can fluctuate frequently due to Turkey’s economic situation. As a rough guide:
- 1 USD ≈ 32 TRY
- 1 EUR ≈ 35 TRY
- 1 GBP ≈ 41 TRY
Pro Tip: Use real-time apps like XE or Google Currency Converter before exchanging money or making big purchases.
Can I Use Other Currencies in Turkey?
While major tourist hubs may quote prices in euros or dollars, only the Turkish Lira is legal tender. You cannot pay in foreign currency in regular stores, restaurants, or for public transport.
That said, many currency exchange shops and hotels accept foreign cash for exchange.
Where to Exchange or Withdraw Money in Turkey
You’ve got several options:
- ATMs (Bankamatik): Best for withdrawing cash in Turkish Lira directly
- Currency exchange offices: Widely available in cities, bazaars, and tourist spots
- Banks: Safe and reliable, but may charge service fees
- Hotels: Convenient but often provide poor exchange rates
Avoid street exchangers or unauthorized money changers.
Using ATMs in Turkey
ATMs in Turkey:
- Are widespread and available in both tourist and rural areas
- Accept most international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus)
- Offer multilingual interfaces (English, French, German, etc.)
- May charge withdrawal fees, especially for foreign cards
Always inform your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks abroad.
Card or Cash – What Do Turks Prefer?
Turkey is a mix of old and new when it comes to payments.
- Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in urban areas, hotels, and restaurants
- Cash is essential in bazaars, taxis, small shops, and local eateries
- Contactless payments and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted in many places, especially in big cities
Carry both cash and card to stay flexible.
Turkish Lira: Notes and Coins
- Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 kuruş and ₺1
- Banknotes: ₺5, ₺10, ₺20, ₺50, ₺100, ₺200
Fun Fact: All lira banknotes feature a portrait of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
Summary at a Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | Turkish Lira (TRY) |
| Symbol | ₺ or TL |
| Subunit | 1 Lira = 100 kuruş |
| Exchange rate (USD) | ~32 TRY |
| Card acceptance | High in cities, cash needed in rural areas |
| Best exchange method | ATMs and official exchange offices |
Final Travel Tip
When visiting Turkey, always carry some small bills and coins. Trust me when I say they’re handy for tipping, taxis, and street food. Avoid exchanging large sums at the airport and use reputable exchange shops or ATMs for better value. And don’t forget: bargaining is part of the culture in many places, so brush up on your negotiation skills!