Money in Turkey: Lira, Credit Cards, ATMs and Exchange Tips

✓ 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: The official currency in Türkiye is the Turkish Lira (TRY) . While major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, it's essential to carry some lira for smaller purchases, local markets, and situations where card payments might incur extra fees. ATMs are readily available, but be mindful of exchange rates and potential charges. What is the Official Currency of Turkey? The official and legal tender of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY) . Since its redenomination in 2005, the currency has been denoted as TRY, with banknotes ranging from 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 lire. Coins, known as kuruş , come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 kuruş, with 100 kuruş equaling 1 lira. While you might occasionally hear older locals refer to 'New Turkish Lira,' this is simply a carryover from the redenomination and refers to the current TRY. It's crucial to understand that while some tourist-oriented establishments, especially in major cities like Istanbul , might display prices in Euros (€) or US Dollars ($), all transactions must legally be settled in Turkish Lira. Merchants who accept foreign currency are doing so as a convenience, and they will convert the price into lira at their own, often less favorable, exchange rate. For this reason, it's almost always more economical to pay in TRY. Should I Exchange My Currency Before Arriving in Turkey? Generally, it is not necessary to exchange a large sum of foreign currency into Turkish Lira before you arrive in Turkey. The exchange rates offered outside the country are typically less competitive than those you'll find within Turkey's borders. However, having a small amount of local currency on hand (perhaps 800-1600 TRY) for immediate expenses like a taxi or public transport from the airport can be convenient, especially if you arrive late at ni