Lonely Planet İstanbul Guide

Need to Know For more information, see Survival Guide

Currency Türk Lirası (Turkish lira; ₺ )

Language Turkish

Visas Not required for some (predominantly European) nationalities; most other nationalities can obtain a 90-day visa electronically at www.evisa.gov.tr.

Money ATMs are widespread. Credit cards accepted at most shops, hotels and upmarket restaurants.

Mobile Phones Most European and Australasian phones work here; some North American phones don’t. Check with your provider. Prepaid SIM cards must be registered when purchased.

Time Eastern European Time (UTC/GMT) plus three hours.

Tourist Information Tourist offices operate in Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Taksim, İstanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. See for their addresses and opening hours.