FAQ Istanbul

The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL) available in the following denominations: Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 TL; Coins: 50 kuruş and 1 TL. Cash can usually be exchanged without commission at bureau de changes (döviz), banks and hotels. Exchange rates are published daily in Turkish newspapers and can also be found in web site of Turkish Central Bank at http://www.tcmb.gov.tr (please click “bugün” under “TCMB Döviz Kurları” on the left column).

The mains voltage for electricity is 220V and 50Hz. Central European type wall socket (two-pin plugs) is standard in Turkey.

International credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants throughout Turkey. However it is advisable also to carry cash for the smaller shops and cafes, particularly in more rural areas.

English is Turkey’s second widest spoken language and you will easily find English speakers in the major cities and holiday resorts. Restaurant menus and other information for foreigners are often printed in English.

Museums: 9 AM to 17 PM, Tuesday to Sunday.
Pharmacies: 9 AM to 19 PM, Monday to Saturday. 24-Hour duty pharmacies are available on a rota basis that the names and addresses can be found on any pharmacy.)
Banks: 9 AM to 17 PM, Monday to Friday. (Some closes for lunch break.)
Post Offices: 9 AM to 17 PM, Monday to Friday. (Extended hours applied on peak periods at major Holiday destinations). Shopping Centres are open seven days a week and stay open until late.

Turkey is GMT+2, that is to say two hours ahead of the UK and one hour ahead of Central Europe.

It is advisable to drink only bottled water unless it has been boiled or purified. You can buy bottled drinking and sparkling water at any supermarket or street kiosk in all cities and villages.

June is a wonderful time to visit Istanbul, Turkiye with the weather being pleasantly mild. During your stay you can expect plenty of sunshine and temperatures which will reach up to 24°C (74°F) during the warmest part of the day. The evenings do cool down a bit and temperatures can drop to 15°C, so be prepared and bring a jacket with you.

In Istanbul, Turkey, in June, the average water temperature is 21.3°C. For most, swimming in 21.3°C is not an enjoyable activity. Furthermore, controlling your breathing becomes progressively more difficult as the water temperature decreases from 21°C to 15°C.

International Driving Licenses are recognized throughout Turkey. Car rental companies ask for a valid driving license.

Registration fees do not include insurance of any kind. At the time you register for the congress and book your travel you may wish to take an insurance policy of your choice. This insurance is to be purchased in your country of origin.

Available at taxi stands or hailed on the street. All are yellow and have meters.