Turkey is a must-see destination for every traveler, but the differences from Western culture can sometimes lead to culture shock. Avoid any potential surprises by reading these dos and don’ts for visiting Turkey.

Prepare for the best visit to Turkey by taking the time to [learn about the culture before you arrive](/posts/what-to-know-before-visiting-turkey). These tips will help guide you on acceptable and unacceptable behavior in the country. You’ll be able to have the ultimate Turkish getaway once you know what to expect.

So, what are the most important dos and don’ts for Turkey?

13 Dos and Don'ts When Visiting Turkey
--------------------------------------

### Dos for Visiting Turkey

#### 1\. Do Dress Appropriately

Turkey is a predominantly-Muslim nation. Although [tourist centers like Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting) and [the summer town Fethiye](/posts/best-things-to-do-in-fethiye) are more progressive and Western, wearing revealing clothing may attract negative attention.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing, miniskirts, low cut tops, or see-through materials.

Do wear loose clothing like flowing skirts, baggy pants, and billowy shirts.

Women need to [carry a headscarf to wear](/posts/what-to-wear-in-turkey) when visiting the country’s [gorgeous mosques](/posts/mosques-to-see-istanbul). 

#### 2\. Do Be Prepared to Haggle

It is customary to haggle at bazaars or markets in Turkey. Although actual stores have fixed prices, the open-air markets expect you to haggle so their first price will be high.

Do take the time to learn the conversion rate between the Turkish lira and your currency so you know what you are haggling.

Don’t feel intimidated to pay the initial price. Tourists often pay without realizing they should haggle. This helps the shopkeepers, but harms your travel budget.

#### 3\. Do Visit a Turkish Bath

The ultimate Turkish luxury is visiting a Turkish bath or _hammam_. Westerners sometimes avoid this treatment because of the communal nudity, much like the Finnish saunas.

Don’t let your worries stop you from getting the most thorough scrub of your life. Everyone wears linen towels around their waist and are more focused on relaxing than looking at others.

You’ll quickly forget your worries once the warm water washes over you and the _tellak_ (bather for men) or _natır_ (bather for women) begins scrubbing away a lifetime of dead skin.

#### 4\. Do Learn Key Turkish Words

In popular tourist areas of large cities, like Istanbul, [people speak English](/posts/do-people-speak-english-in-turkey). However, most Turkish people are not fluent in the language. You’ll make it easier on yourself and them if you learn a few key Turkish words. 

Here are 5 key words to learn before you visit Turkey:

*   _Merhaba_ = Hello
*   _Evet_ = Yes
*   _Hayır_ = No
*   _Teşekkür ederim_ = Thank you
*   _Türkçe konuşamıyorum_ = I don’t speak Turkish

#### 5\. Do Try Local Food

Turkish food is not to be missed! Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast consisting of a plethora of local cheese, butter, olives, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, jam, honey, spicy sausage, and even more.

Wash it down with a couple of glasses of traditional black Turkish tea. Be careful, though, because it packs a punch! Settle in the afternoon with a [traditional Turkish coffee](/posts/best-drinks-turkey).

Be sure to [venture beyond the traditional Turkish kebabs](/posts/best-vegetarian-turkish-dishes). Turkish food is much like Greek and Eastern European fare. You’ll find _börek_ (baked pastry), _pide_ (Turkish flatbread pizza), _çorba_ (soup), _helva_ (sweet confection), and more!

Don’t be afraid to ask restaurants what certain dishes are. They’ll explain it as best they can, and sometimes even offer a photo.

Do try new dishes throughout the country. Ask your guides or servers what they recommend and give it a chance!

#### 6\. Do Leave Istanbul

[Istanbul is an incredibly unique city,](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting) as the bridge between Asia and Europe. But there’s so much more to Turkey than Istanbul.

If you don’t leave Istanbul, you only see a small part of the country. [Go beyond the city](/posts/best-place-in-turkey-for-families) to hot air balloon over fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, see the gates of Troy, and visit two wonders of the ancient world.

[Don’t limit your adventure to the main city](/posts/best-day-trips-from-istanbul) or you’ll miss out on Turkish culture and history.

Do find tours if you aren’t comfortable [navigating the country](/posts/best-things-to-do-in-fethiye) on your own. There are dozens of companies that run personal and group tours to help you see more of Turkey.

#### 7\. Do Tip

Tipping isn’t common in Turkey in the way that it is in North America. Typically, you only tip at fancy restaurants, where you would leave an additional 10-15% for your server.

However, tipping culture has increased due to tourism.

Leave the equivalent of 50 cents or $1 USD for bellboys. [In taxis](/posts/common-taxi-scams-turkey), round your fare up to the nearest lira. For example, if your fare is 1.70 you would give them 2 Liras.

Don’t be afraid to ask your accommodation for additional tipping practices for tour guides. 

### Don’ts For Visiting Turkey

#### 8\. Don’t Engage Excessive in PDA

Respect Turkey’s Muslim culture by avoiding excessive PDA during your travels. In Turkey, it is not very common for men and women to overtly display affection in public. It can attract unwanted attention, especially from conservative men in small towns.

Don’t be overly affectionate with your partner in public. If you aren’t married, you may even need separate hotel rooms in some conservative parts of the country.

#### 9\. Don’t Drink Excessively

Despite what you may think, [drinking alcohol in Turkey is legal](/posts/drinking-alcohol-in-turkey) and widely accepted, especially in major cities in Western Turkey such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara. However, in some regions of Turkey and even neighborhoods of major cities, people don’t drink at all.

Although alcohol is readily available for tourists and locals alike, getting extremely drunk is frowned upon. It draws unwanted attention and can lead to [an unsafe situation](/posts/turkey-travel-safety-tips). Have a few drinks, enjoy the local favorite _rakı_ (anise-flavored spirit) while you enjoy some _meze_ (appetizers) but know your limits.

Nightclubs and bars are [safe to visit](/posts/is-istanbul-safe), just make sure you have a trusted friend or companion and look after each other.

#### 10\. Don’t Travel Near the Syrian Border

Most of the crime in Turkey is centered around the southern border with Syria. Almost all tour providers have stopped going near the border to ensure their clients’ safety.

Our number one [safety tip](/posts/turkey-travel-safety-tips) is to avoid traveling near the Syrian border.

Don’t let the civil unrest of another country prevent you from visiting Turkey. There are so many gorgeous sites to see in the north of the country.

#### 11\. Don’t Fall for Scams

[Tourist scams are common in Turkey](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul) as a way for locals to make extra money. Be aware of the three most common scams in the country so you don’t get cheated out of your money:

*   Unmetered Taxis: where taxis claim their meter is broken or offer a scenic tour, then [grossly overcharge you](/posts/common-taxi-scams-turkey) at the end. Only take taxis with a working meter or use [BiTaksi](http://www.bitaksi.com/en/).
*   Romance Scams: where Turkish men get into relationships with Western women then beg them for money when they leave. Be wary of getting into a vacation romance in Turkey, as many men will try to guilt you into giving them money before you leave.
*   Pickpocketing: where thieves will steal your purse or wallet. This is the biggest crime in Turkey. Be careful at [tourist attractions](/posts/how-to-spend-24-hours-in-istanbul) and avoid flashy items that attract their attention.

If you want to be more cautious, you can choose to buy travel insurance. Some travel insurance providers may even offer fraud/scam coverage up to a certain amount.

Remember to always buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Turkey, just to be safe!

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#### 12\. Don’t Make Rude Gestures

This seems like common sense, but tourists often make this mistake simply because they don’t know what’s considered rude in Turkey. The common “ok” hand sign can actually be taken as an offensive gesture in Turkey. You should also avoid putting your thumb between your index and middle finger.

Do [research the culture](/posts/what-to-know-before-visiting-turkey) before you visit to ensure you don’t accidentally offend someone while you’re visiting. If you’re unsure, avoid gestures altogether and use the Turkish you learned earlier.

#### 13\. Don’t Stay Close to Tourist Attractions

[Tourists have the misconception](/posts/common-misconceptions-turkey) that staying near tourist attractions - either in hotels or lingering during the day - is safer. In Turkey, that is not the case.

Not only do restaurants and hotels have huge markups in these popular regions, but you’re also more at risk of getting [pickpocketed or scammed](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul).

Do [stay on in the local neighborhoods](/posts/where-to-stay-in-istanbul), where accommodations are much cheaper. During the day, go beyond the typical tourist attractions to see a different side of the city.

Closing Thoughts
----------------

Prepare for your ultimate Turkish vacation by learning these dos and don’ts before you visit. [Go beyond the typical tourist areas](/posts/unusual-things-to-do-istanbul) to see more of the country, but behave appropriately to avoid upsetting Turkish locals. Respect the nation’s culture by dressing modestly and limiting your alcohol consumption.

[Use these tips](/posts/travel-tips-women-turkey) to feel confident in visiting this historically rich country. You’ll be so blown away by the hospitality of the Turkish people, the ancient sites, and the incredible food that you’ll be glad you spent the time learning the dos and don’ts so you could enjoy it all worry-free.

woman-in-hat-istanbul-large.jpg

Dos and don’ts for visiting Turkey to avoid culture shock and have the best travel experience.

13 Dos and Don’ts When Visiting Turkey

Many travelers coming to Turkey for the first time will often ask whether drinking alcohol is legal or safe. Turkey being a country that is straddling Europe and the East, it's only natural to ask such questions.

So can you drink alcohol in Turkey? **There is no problem with drinking alcohol as a traveler in Turkey. Drinking is a rich part of Turkish culture and cuisine in some regions, however, there's also a large portion of Turkish people who do not drink alcohol for religious reasons.**

Although the sale and consumption of alcohol in Turkey are 100% legal, there are still some specific regulations regarding the sale of alcohol and cultural drinking [norms you should adhere to](/posts/what-to-know-before-visiting-turkey). Certain alcoholic beverages are also a wonderful part of Turkish cuisine and should not be missed.

Drinking Alcohol in Turkey
--------------------------

The dominant religion in Turkey is Islam; however, alcohol is still legal and consumed by locals. Many Turkish people, both young and old, will enjoy a friendly drink or two during the evenings.

Local attitudes shy away from excessive binge drinking, and instead, most alcoholic beverages are commonly served with a portion of small finger foods to graze on (nuts, appetizers, etc.).

The sale of alcohol in Turkey is strictly regulated by the time of day. You cannot buy alcohol from shops between 10 pm to 6 am, however, alcohol can still be sold in bars, restaurants, and hotels 24 hours a day. Depending on the city, many bars and nightclubs may stay open and serve alcohol until 5 am with most restaurants closing earlier around 1 to 2 am.

It is not uncommon, though, to find restaurants in smaller towns/cities or in more conservative neighborhoods that do not serve alcohol at all. But if you are in one of the more populated cities, such as Istanbul, Ankara, or Izmir, you should not have any problem finding a drink. It's always a good idea to check out [what to expect in certain neighborhoods](/posts/where-to-stay-in-istanbul) of the city you're traveling to.

**The legal drinking age is 18 years old in Turkey**. You may have to show some identification for proof of age if you do not look of age to the bartender. It is worth noting that it is illegal to sell alcohol within 100 meters of a mosque or school.

You may also notice that advertising of alcoholic beverages is also restricted in both print and television. As common in many countries, liquor bottles and alcoholic beverages have warning labels for the potential harm of alcohol.

Legal permission is required to produce or sell alcohol in Turkey, which is regulated by the Turkish Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock. Avoid buying alcoholic beverages from street vendors as you may not know what they are made of. In the event you come across non-labeled alcohol, stay away and instead buy from a safe and reliable source such as corner shops, supermarkets, liquor shops, or bars and restaurants.

Drunk driving laws in Turkey are strict. **The legal alcohol limit for driving is .05% BAC (blood alcohol concentration).** This only applies if you are driving alone. If you have a passenger you must not have any alcohol in your system.

Police have the power to administer random alcohol tests on drivers at any time. If you are caught driving over the legal limit, you will be hit with a hefty fine by the police and your driver’s license will be suspended for a minimum of 6 months of the first offense.

If you are traveling in Turkey, it is advised to stay away from any form of drinking and driving. It’s not worth the potential legal headache and can ruin a great holiday.

Depending on the city and municipality, drinking alcohol in public places such as streets, parks, or beaches may be allowed. If you are unsure, be sure to ask a local nearby establishment or look around and do as the locals do.

If you are traveling in Turkey, be respectful of locals, [learn what to do and not to do](/posts/dos-and-donts-for-turkey), and realize they may have different attitudes towards alcohol than those in your home country. Just as in your home country, there are still laws in place for disturbance of the peace of others, so drink responsibly.

Where to Buy Alcohol
--------------------

Alcohol can be purchased in corner stores called “_tekel_” where a selection of local beer, wine, and spirits along with tobacco can be found. Supermarkets will generally have more cost-effective prices for alcohol with most imported and popular brand name spirits costing much more. In 2014, a tax on alcohol was raised, depending on your home country and exchange rate, prices may seem higher or more affordable.

At the supermarket, .5L of domestic beer will cost around 10 TL, a bottle of local wine 40 TL, and a bottle of mid-range liquor 200 TL. As per normal, these prices will be higher in a restaurant or bar with .5L of domestic beer costing 20 TL and a bottle of local Turkish wine costing 100 TL. Keep in mind that these prices may fluctuate with changes in the local economy.

Drink as the Locals Do
----------------------

If you are traveling to Turkey, be aware of cultural norms and attitudes towards alcohol.  While many Turkish people will consume alcohol, there may be a large portion that chooses not to because of religious reasons.

Turkish cuisine is very rich and best complemented with local alcoholic beverages, although [they have many delicious soft drinks](/posts/best-drinks-turkey) as well. Turkish wines are not to be skipped out on, as there are many producers and local grapes due to Turkey’s diverse topography and climates.

Some popular Turkish varieties include Kavaklıdere Yakut (Boğazkere - Öküzgözü), Paşaeli 6N Karasakız (merlot), and Vinkara Yaşasın (sparkling white). While Turkish beer may not be the best-tasting in the world, you will still find some delicious craft brews along with more familiar Western brands.

The national drink is called “_rakı_” which is a spirit twice distilled from grapes and made with aniseed very similar to Greek ouzo.  Nicknamed “lion’s milk” for its white color when mixed with water and ice, _rakı_ has a strong anise flavor and is commonly served with seafood or “meze” -  a collection of small dishes served as appetizers. Think Spanish tapas Turkish style.

**A warning to first-time _rakı_ drinkers as it can pack a punch, with most brands in the 80-90 proof (40-50% ABV) range.**

A “_rakı_” table is a common social gathering in Turkish culture and is to be enjoyed during moments of celebration or pain with both friends and family. When at a restaurant, you will be offered a choice of different delicious meze to start your meal.

After your meze selection arrives, the waiter will ask you if you would like to open a bottle of _rakı_. If it is your first time drinking _rakı_, ask for a small bottle (35cl) and tell the waiter you each would like a small shot (4cl).

After pouring the _rakı_ into a highball glass, the waiter will ask if you want ice and water. Take both water and ice as this will make the drink much lighter and more enjoyable for novice raki drinkers. Graze on your meze and continue to sip _rakı_ as you enjoy the rest of the main courses of your meal.

What About During Ramadan?
--------------------------

Ramadan or “_Ramazan_” is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting from dawn until dusk. This includes not eating or drinking and abstaining from pleasure while praying to become closer to god.

It is also a time for families to gather and celebrate. Islam is the predominant religion in Turkey, so many locals may be fasting during this time.

**During Ramadan, alcohol is still sold in markets, restaurants, and bars as per normal**. When in public spaces or non-touristic areas you should be conscious and respectful of those who may be fasting during the daytime.

raki-alcohol-turkey-large.jpg

Learn about the regulations, cultural norms, and where to buy alcohol in Turkey. Is it legal and safe to drink alcohol in Turkey?

13 Dos and Don’ts When Visiting Turkey

Can You Drink Alcohol in Turkey?