WHEN BEST TO GO
Istanbul’s summers are hot and humid, while its winters are cold and rainy – especially in December and January. To avoid the high-season crowds and inflated prices we recommend traveling in spring and autumn. From April to June, Istanbul enjoys longer days and milder weather.
LOCAL CUSTOMS
Turkey is predominantly Muslim. During the holy fast of Ramadan (throughout the month of August) eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be as discreet as possible. Modest clothing should be worn to mosques and religious shrines. Smoking is banned on public transport.
ATTIRE
Smart-casual modern clothing and shoes or sandals are generally worn by both sexes. In mosques, shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted and it is obligatory for women to cover their head with a scarf. Wear socks if you are walking on carpets in mosques. LANGUAGE Turkish; English widely spoken
CURRENCY
Turkish Iira
EXCHANGE RATE
$1 = TRY 1.42
£1 = TRY 2.30
€1 = TRY 2.00
COUNTRY DIALLING CODE
+90
24 HOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT
Ambulance: 112
Fire services: 110
Police: 155
Coastguard: 158
EMBASSY CONTACTS
US:
+90 212 335 9000
İstinye Mahallesi, Kaplıcalar Mevkii No.2 İstinye 34460
UK:
+90 212 334 6400
Mesrutiyet Caddesi No.34,Tepebasi Beyoglu 34435
TIME ZONE
GMT+3 hours
POPULATION
12 million
RELIGIOUS DEOMOGRAPHIC
Predominately Muslim
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
- New Year’s Day
- May Day
- Victory Day
- Ramazan Bayrami
- Kurban Bayrami
