Useful Information
Here are some useful tips about traveling in Turkey.
- When visiting the museums or sites, the entrance fee has to be paid in Tukish Liras. In some of the major museums they accept credit cards but many of them are cash only. Don't forget to change some money into Lira.
- Don't forget that several museums have a day of closure. This is usually on Mondays but it depends on the museum because some are closed on a different day of the week. Archaeological sites usually don't have a closure day, but it's adviced to check with a licensed tour guide or a travel agent.
- In order to visit a mosque, you should take your shoes off, cover your legs (if you're wearing shorts) and your shoulders (for short sleeves). In most of the mosques ladies should cover their hair as well.
- Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. But keep in mind that some shop keepers may still prefer cash.
- Banks are open between 8:30-12:00 and 13:30-17:00 during weekdays, Government offices between 8:30-12:30 and 13:30-17:30 during the weekdays, and shops usually between 9:30-19:00. But in most of the tourist areas closing times vary, some close around midnight.
- Local time zone of Turkey is GMT+2 hours. Country dialing code is 90. There is a very good GSM mobile phone network coverage all over the country. Electricity is 220 Volts. Metric System is used.
- By the law, travel agents are obliged to provide a professional licensed guide on all of their tours. So please check with your tour leader if he/she's licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.
Important phone numbers
- Police 155 - Gendarmerie 156 - Coast Guard 158
- Fire 110 - Forest Fire 177
- Emergency (Ambulance) 112
- Unknown Numbers 11811
- Tourism Information 170
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