Practical Information in Istanbul
Bring sun block for summer and a brolly for winter, light walking shoes, and empty bags for the carpets you swore blind you wouldn't be tempted by.
GMT
GMT +2 (+3 in summertime).
Money
New Turkish Lira (TL) is the currency. This replaces the old Turkish Lira (with multiple zeros), which went out of circulation in December 2005.
Visas
Each country has its own regulations and restrictions for its visitors. Find specific visa information for your destination.
Health
Travelling to (sub) tropical destinations means taking care of your health. Read more about health issues for the area you're visiting.
Electricity
220V AC, 50 Hz, two-pin round plugs are standard.
Dialling Code
+90 (national), (0) 212 (European side) or 216 (Asian side) + eight-digit number (Istanbul).
Istanbul Tourist Info
Fit In
Parts of Istanbul are fairly traditional, so shorts should cover knees and T-shirts cover shoulders, otherwise you would look out of place. When visiting mosques, women should bring a scarf to cover head and shoulders: if you forget, you will be provided with one.
Public Holidays 2011-2012
- National Sovereignty & Children's Day 23 Apr
- Ataturk Commemorations & Youth Sports Day 19 May
- Victory Day 30 Aug
- Seker Bayram (End of Ramadan) 30 Aug-1 Sep
- Republic Day 29 Oct
- Kurban Bayram (Feast of Sacrifice) 6-8 Nov
- New Year's Day 1 Jan
