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Money Exchange in Istanbul, Turkey

hi. so im totally new to travel. But, the GF would love to explore Istanbul. One question arises tho~ where would we exchange our US $ for Turkish Lira? Are there terminals at Ataturk Airport or outside the city? Let me know~ THANX GUYS!

Posted by
2876 posts

Just bring your ATM/debit card with a Visa/Mastercard logo and get your Turkish lira at any ATM in Istanbul. You'll find ATM's everywhere, including the airport. Be sure to tell your bank you're headed for Turkey so they don't block your card when they see a foreign transaction.

Posted by
338 posts

There is an exchange site in the airport where you can change money and others in downtown Istanbul, but I agree with Tom that the ATMs are the best option. There are ATMs in the airport. If you're staying in Sultanahmet there are several next to the Aya Sophia. Do bring some U.S. dollars, however. You will need to buy your tourist visa in either Euros or Dollars after you land. Its $20/person right now, but was as high as $100 in the past (during a spat with the U.S. over entry fees). Have fun.