Turkish Money

Tips for handling Turkish money

Shopkeepers and restaurant owners don’t often keep nor have large notes in the shop/ restaurant. They prefer you to pay with smaller notes: indeed many people in Turkey will not accept large bills or notes for small purchases. Try and get into the habit of paying for something with a note that is roughly twice the amount you owe (ie, for a meal worth 27 lira, pay with a 50 lira note). Paying with anything more may earn you a dirty look and a request for a smaller note!

As such, try to juggle your money so you always have some smaller notes on your person. Use your bigger notes at big shops such as supermarkets, which are more likely to have change.

Don’t underestimate the importance of the kurus coins either. It is always wise to have a collection/ purse or pocket full of them. They are indispensible for journeys on the dolmus - public transport in Turkey – and for trips to the public toilets, for instance.

Coins are often scarce so don’t be surprised if you don’t receive all of your change when shopping in Turkey either. If you’re owed something very small, such as five kurus, you simply may not get it! It works the other way too. Shopkeepers will do whatever involves giving less change!

It is always good to get a little of the currency you need before leaving home but for the best return, change the majority of your money when you are in Turkey as you will receive a better exchange rate. Use banks, ATMs or exchange bureaus once in the country as the exchange rate will be more favorable than in hotels. Bear in mind that you will need to know your ATM code in numbers and not letters. Your Turkish lira will be virtually useless outside the country so try to spend it all while you can! 

Do you have any further tips or hints for handling Turkish money? Share them in the comments section below.

1.	Turkish Money
2.	Tips for handling Turkish money

Share:

Facebook

Return to TC essays page