Mediterranean Coast (e.g., Antalya, Bodrum): Characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Peak summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures are typically around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Ideal months for a Blue Cruise or beach activities are June through September when the weather is warmest and sunniest.
Aegean Coast (e.g., Izmir, Marmaris): Experiences similar weather to the Mediterranean but with slightly cooler temperatures. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 30-35°C (86-95°F). Winters are mild, averaging around 7-15°C (45-59°F). The best time for outdoor activities is from May to October.
Central Anatolia (e.g., Cappadocia): Known for its continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures soar to around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for exploring this region.
Eastern Anatolia: Experiences harsher winters with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, while summers are pleasantly warm. Temperatures can vary greatly between day and night, so dressing in layers is advisable.

For detailed, region-specific weather information, you can refer to our Weather in Turkey region by region and season by season. You can read it here.

WEIGHTS AND MEASUREMENTS IN TURKEY

Turkey uses the metric system for weights and measures. Here are some examples of U.S. or English and metric measurement systems and conversions:

Length Measurements:
- 1 millimeter (mm) = 0.03937 inches (in)
- 1 centimeter (cm) = 0.3937 inches (in)
- 1 meter (m) = 1.0936 yards (yd)
- 1 kilometer (km) = 0.6214 miles (mi)
Mass Measurements:
- 1 milligram (mg) = 0.0154 grains
- 1 gram (g) = 0.0353 ounces (oz)
- 1 kilogram (kg) = 2.2046 pounds (lb)
- 1 tonne (t) = 1.1023 short tons (US) or 0.9842 long tons (UK)

Length Measurement In Turkey

Metric		US or Imperial
1 millimeter [mm]		0,03937 in
1 centimeter [cm]	10 mm	0,3937 in
1 meter [m]	100 cm	1,0936 yd
1 kilometer [km]	1000 m	0,6214 mile

US or Imperial		Metric
1 inch [in]		2,54 cm
1 foot [ft]	12 in	0,3048 m
1 yard [yd]	3 ft	0,9144 m
1 mile	1760 yd	1,6093 km
1 int nautical mile	2025,4 yd	1,852 km

Mass Measurement In Turkey

Metric		US or Imperial
1 milligram [mg]		0,0154 grain
1 gram [g]	1.000 mg	0,0353 oz
1 kilogram [kg]	1.000 g	2,2046 lb
1 tonne [t]	1.000 kg	1,1023 short ton
1 tonne [t]	1.000 kg	0,9842 long ton

US or Imperial		Metric
1 ounce [oz]	437,5 grain	28,35 g
1 pound [lb]	16 oz	0,4536 kg
1 stone	14 lb	6,3503 kg
1 hundredweight [cwt]	112 lb	50,802 kg
1 short ton (US)		0,9072 t
1 long ton (UK)		1,0160 t

ELECTRICITY IN TURKEY

Turkey operates on a 220V power system with a frequency of 50Hz. If your appliances are not compatible with 220V, you’ll need a voltage converter. Most hotels, especially luxury ones, will provide a converter, but it’s wise to carry one if you’re unsure. Adapters for the Turkish plug type (Type C and F) will also be necessary.

CURRENCY IN TURKEY

For comprehensive details on currency, including the best exchange rates, please refer to our guide on "Currency in Turkey" and "Where to Get the Best Exchange Rate in Turkey".

DRINKING WATER IN TURKEY

Tap water in Turkey is generally safe to drink, but it’s often chlorinated and may have a taste you’re not used to. For a better taste and convenience, bottled water is widely available and recommended for drinking and brushing teeth. In Istanbul or any other city in Turkey, you can safely brush your teeth with tap water.

SMOKING IN TURKEY

Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, including buses, flights, and most indoor areas. However, designated smoking areas are available in many restaurants, and Shisha (hookah) cafes are popular. Turkish tobacco is known for its quality, and smoking is prevalent among locals.

TOILETS IN TURKEY (RESTROOMS)

Public toilets are accessible in city centers, museums, restaurants, and gas stations. Be aware that European-style sitting toilets may be less common in rural areas. It’s advisable to carry your own toilet paper and paper towels, as these may not always be provided.

TRAFFIC IN TURKEY

Traffic drives on the right side of the road. Pedestrians should be cautious and ensure vehicles have stopped before crossing. Sidewalks are safe for walking, but always be aware of local traffic conditions.

MOSQUES IN TURKEY

Visitors are welcome at mosques, but you must remove your shoes before entering. Women are required to cover their heads with a scarf, which can often be provided at the entrance. Mosques are usually quiet places, and loud behavior is discouraged. Most mosques are closed to tourists during prayer times.

WORKING HOURS IN TURKEY

Offices and banks operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a break from 12:00 to 1:30 PM. Adjust your schedule accordingly when planning visits or transactions.

NATIONAL / OFFICIAL HOLIDAYS IN TURKEY

April 23: National Sovereignty and Children’s Day
May 19: Ataturk Day and Youth Movement Day
August 30: Victory Day
October 29: Republic Day
Ramadan Bayramı/Sugar Feast: Celebrates the end of Ramadan with three days of feasting (dates vary annually).
Kurban Bayramı/Sacrificial Feast: Four days of sacrifices, with meat distributed among the less fortunate (dates vary annually).

ALCOHOL IN TURKEY

There are no restrictions on alcohol sales. Rakı, a popular anise-flavored spirit, is commonly enjoyed, along with local wines and beers. While drinking in public is generally permissible, be mindful of local customs, especially during Ramadan.

Although most people prefer Rakı, wine is also famous in Turkey.

It is worth mentioning the local wine production in the northwest and central Anatolia. Many foreigners say that the local beer, especially the bran Efes Pilsen, tastes great.

If possible, you should only avoid drinking in public places during Ramadan (the concession month). As a tourist, you will not be affected by Ramadan and the nightlife in the rural areas will continue.

BARGAINING IN TURKEY

Bargaining is a common practice in Turkish markets and bazaars. Start by negotiating prices and be prepared to haggle. In more modern shopping areas, fixed prices are standard, and bargaining is not customary.

Usually, the bargaining margin starts from 10 % and may go up to 40%. Do not push more than possible, this will cause you to underestimate the value of the good.

Bargaining could only be done in touristy areas, in local towns or new city and modern shopping malls bargaining is not possible.

TIPPING IN TURKEY

In restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill is customary, even if included in the bill. Tipping for taxis is not required, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.

TURKEY TIMEZONE

Turkey operates on Turkey Time (TRT), which is GMT+3 throughout the year. Unlike many countries, Turkey does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time remains consistent regardless of the season.

This means that Turkey is three hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3). For travelers from regions observing Daylight Saving Time, it's essential to account for the time difference when scheduling calls or planning activities.

For example, when it’s noon in London (GMT), it’s 3:00 PM in Turkey. Make sure to adjust your watch or devices to TRT to stay synchronized with local schedules during your visit.

Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Turkey