Useful Information for your Stay in Istanbul

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:

UK:

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