How Do You Use Money in Turkey? Lira, ATMs & Tipping Guide

✓ Last reviewed: May 2026 — Verified and updated by our licensed Turkey travel experts. Prices, opening hours and visa rules reflect the latest 2026 guidance. Quick Answer: To use money in Turkey, you'll primarily use the local currency, the Turkish Lira (TRY) , for most daily expenses like food, transport, and shopping. While credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, carrying a mix of Lira cash is essential for smaller vendors, markets, and tipping. The best way to get cash is by withdrawing from bank-affiliated ATMs or exchanging USD or EUR at a "Döviz" (exchange office) for the most favorable rates. What currency is used in Turkey? The official currency used in Turkey is the Turkish Lira, identified by the currency code TRY and the symbol ₺. The Turkish Lira (TL) is the lifeblood of commerce throughout the country. While you might see prices for major purchases like hotels, flights, or some private Turkey tours quoted in Euros or US Dollars for price stability, all your day-to-day transactions will be in Lira. The Lira is subdivided into 100 kuruş , but due to inflation, these small coins are rarely used or seen in circulation today. It's important to be aware that the exchange rate for the Turkish Lira can be volatile. This means the value against currencies like the USD, EUR, or GBP can fluctuate daily. Don't be surprised if the rate you get one day is slightly different the next; it's a normal part of the local economy. Expert Insight: Because of the currency's fluctuations, it's often wiser to exchange your money after arriving in Turkey rather than in your home country, as you'll almost always secure a much better rate locally. Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey? Yes, credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in Turkey's cities, tourist centers, hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. In major hubs like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and popular destinations like Cappadocia and the Turquoise Coast, you can comf