Navigate
Turkey with confidence using these essential do’s and don’ts.
From cultural etiquette to practical travel tips, learn how to
respect local customs and make the most of your Turkish adventure.
• Greet politely with “Merhaba.” A warm greeting is appreciated everywhere, and handshakes are common in social and business settings.
• Dress modestly in mosques and rural areas. Cover shoulders and knees; women should carry a scarf for head coverings.
• Remove shoes before entering mosques and some homes. Follow local cues at the entrance.
• Respect religious customs. Especially during Ramadan, when many people fast from dawn to dusk.
• Accept Turkish hospitality. Tea or coffee is a sign of friendliness; declining can feel dismissive.
• Learn basic Turkish phrases. Even “Teşekkürler” (thank you) is warmly received.
• Queue respectfully and give elders priority. Courtesy toward age is culturally important.
• Negotiate in bazaars. Haggling is expected in places like the Grand Bazaar.
• Carry cash. Smaller shops, taxis, and markets may not accept cards.
• Try local food. Simit, döner, baklava, and Anatolian regional dishes are cultural staples.
• Discuss politics or sensitive history casually. These topics can be deeply personal.
• Enter mosques during prayer unless invited. Always remain quiet and respectful.
• Photograph people without permission. Especially women or religious individuals.
• Wear revealing clothing in conservative areas. Modesty is valued outside tourist zones.
• Show the soles of your feet. This is considered disrespectful.
• Drink alcohol in public streets. Consume only in licensed venues.
• Blow your nose loudly in public. Especially during meals.
• Assume taxis use meters. Confirm before starting the journey.
• Ignore tea etiquette. If offered, accept or politely explain why not.
• Expect strict punctuality everywhere. Timing can be flexible, particularly rurally.
• Hospitality is central. Guests are treated generously and warmly.
• Family is highly valued. Respect for elders is essential.
• Religion shapes daily rhythm. The call to prayer (ezan) marks time throughout the day.
• Public affection is mild. Hand-holding is fine; kissing may draw attention.
• Shoes-off customs apply in some homes. Watch what your host does.
• Gift-giving is appreciated. Sweets or pastries are ideal when visiting homes.
• Tea culture is everywhere. Çay is offered in shops, offices, and homes.
• Wait for the host to begin meals. This shows good manners.
• Physical warmth is friendly but measured. Not overly expressive.
• Photography etiquette matters. Always ask before photographing people or craftsmen.
• Use an İstanbulkart. It works across metros, trams, ferries, and buses.
• Domestic flights save time. Ideal for routes like Istanbul–Cappadocia or Antalya.
• Carry a scarf. Useful for mosques and dusty outdoor sites.
• Expect weather variation. Coastal warmth contrasts with cold central and eastern regions.
• Avoid tap water. Bottled or filtered water is safest.
• Watch for scams. Especially around Sultanahmet and Taksim.
• Use official taxis or BiTaksi. Safer and more reliable.
• Avoid rush hours. Istanbul traffic can be intense.
• Wear comfortable shoes. Bazaars and historic areas require lots of walking.
• Check ferry schedules. Bosphorus routes change with weather.
• Visit mosques early. Quieter, cooler, and more atmospheric.
• Eat at neighbourhood lokantas. Authentic, affordable, and local.
• Book Cappadocia balloons early. Peak seasons sell out months ahead.
• Explore beyond Istanbul. Konya, Gaziantep, and Mardin offer deep cultural insight.
• Join a Turkish breakfast. A generous spread of cheeses, olives, breads, eggs, and tea.
• Visit Pamukkale at sunset. Softer light and fewer crowds.
• Try a traditional hammam. A uniquely Turkish cultural experience.
• Use Bosphorus ferries. The best views for minimal cost.
• Buy regional crafts. Ceramics, copperware, and carpets vary by region.
• Relax in tea gardens. Çay bahçesi culture is central to daily life.
• Emergency number: 112 for police, fire, and ambulance.
• Drug laws are strict. Penalties for possession are severe.
• Avoid political demonstrations. They can become unpredictable.
• Carry ID or a passport copy. Especially in major cities.
• Stay alert at night. Tourist areas can attract petty crime.
• Respect mosque rules. No photography during prayers.
• Traffic is chaotic. Cross carefully and follow signals.
• Earthquake awareness matters. Know hotel exits and safety guidance.
• Secure belongings. Crowded markets and trams are pickpocket zones.
• Follow beach safety flags. Currents can be strong.
• Use polite greetings. “Merhaba,” “Teşekkürler,” and “Lütfen” go far.
• English is common in tourist areas. Limited elsewhere — patience helps.
• Keep tone calm and respectful. Loudness is frowned upon.
• Avoid aggressive gestures. Pointing can feel rude.
• Personal space is moderate. Friendly but not overly physical.
• WhatsApp is widely used. Common for bookings and messages.
• Compliment food and hospitality. Turks are proud of both.
• Avoid jokes about religion or politics. Unless with close friends.
• Smile and be genuine. Warmth is always appreciated.