Does Turkey Use the Euro? Everything You Need to Know

As a popular tourist destination, Turkey sees millions of visitors each year from the Eurozone. This leaves many travelers wondering – can I use euros in Turkey? Or do I need to exchange currency?

While the Turkish lira is the official currency, euros are accepted in many tourist areas. However, using euros in Turkey does come with some drawbacks.

This complete guide will cover everything you need to know about using euros in Turkey.

What is the Currency of Turkey?

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY or TL). It has been the national currency since 1927 when it replaced the Ottoman lira.

The lira is divided into 100 kuruş (pronounced kurush) – similar to how the euro is divided into 100 cents.

There are 6 different banknote denominations

• 5 lira
• 10 lira
• 20 lira
• 50 lira
• 100 lira
• 200 lira

The coins come in these 5 kuruş amounts:

• 1 lira
• 5 kuruş
• 10 kuruş
• 25 kuruş
• 50 kuruş

So if you want to use the local currency on your trip to Turkey you’ll be dealing in lira and kuruş.

Can I Use Euros in Turkey?

While the lira is the official currency many businesses in Turkey’s main tourist spots accept euros. This includes hotels, restaurants shops, transportation and activities.

Places where you are likely to be able to use euros in Turkey include:

• Istanbul
• Cappadocia
• Antalya
• Bodrum
• Fethiye
• Pamukkale
• Ephesus
• Troy

Within these destinations, euros are more widely accepted in the tourist centers and historical sites. For example, in Istanbul you’ll have better luck using euros in Sultanahmet than in other neighborhoods.

That said, euro acceptance is never guaranteed anywhere in Turkey. Some businesses might accept them but with an unfavorable exchange rate.

Pros of Using Euros in Turkey

Why do some tourists choose to use euros instead of getting lira? Here are some of the potential pros:

Don’t Need to Exchange Currency

By sticking with euros, you skip the currency exchange step. This saves you time and eliminates exchange rate fees.

Euros are a Stable Currency

The Turkish lira is prone to fluctuation and devaluation. In the last decade it has lost significant value against foreign currencies.

The euro is stronger and more stable, so some tourists see it as a safer bet.

You Already Have Euros

If you are visiting Turkey from the Eurozone, you likely already have euros on hand to use. Instead of exchanging them, you can try using euros directly for purchases.

Avoid Leftover Lira

When you exchange currency, you’ll inevitably be left with some spare lira that are useless once you leave Turkey. Sticking to euros prevents wasting money on leftover foreign cash.

Cons of Using Euros in Turkey

On the other hand, here are some potential drawbacks:

You May Pay Higher Prices

Vendors know that they can charge tourists more when they pay in euros. So you often get a worse deal compared to the local currency.

Limited Acceptance

While euros may be accepted at tourist hubs, elsewhere in Turkey they are essentially useless. Rural areas and non-tourist cities likely won’t take euros.

Bad Exchange Rates

Some vendors will still accept euros but use an unfair exchange rate that doesn’t match the current rates. This results in you paying more than you should.

Annoy the Locals

In general, Turks prefer when foreigners make an effort to use the local currency rather than relying on euros.

When is it Best to Use Euros in Turkey?

Here are some scenarios when it can make sense to use euros on your Turkey trip:

• Paying for a tour or activity that is priced in euros
• Shopping at a store or market that lists prices in euros
• Buying souvenirs from street vendors in tourist areas
• Paying at your hotel if they use euros
• At the airport for food or shopping before your flight
• Withdrawing cash from an airport ATM before you leave Turkey

In these situations, having euros on hand can be convenient. But overall, you’ll get the best prices by using lira.

Should I Get Cash, Use an ATM or Pay by Card?

Now that you know it’s possible to use euros in Turkey, how should you get your hands on them? You have a few options:

Bring Euro Cash

If you’re visiting from the Eurozone, you likely already have euro banknotes you can bring with you. This ensures you have cash on hand to use when needed.

Just beware of theft. Don’t carry around too many euros at once.

Withdraw Euros from an ATM

Find an ATM in Turkey that dispenses euros and withdraw what you need. This prevents carrying excess cash.

Make sure your bank/card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. And avoid ATMs with high fees.

Pay by Credit Card

Many Turkish businesses accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. The purchase will automatically be handled in the local currency.

This is often the best option since you’ll pay the true exchange rate without fees or markups. But carry cash as backup.

Exchanging Euros for Turkish Lira

To get the best prices in Turkey, you’re better off exchanging your euros for lira instead of trying to use euros directly. Here are some tips:

• Exchange at a bank or currency exchange booth instead of at your hotel or the airport. You’ll get a better rate.

• Compare rates between different establishments and go with the best deal.

• Avoid exchange places at tourist sites as they prey on unsuspecting visitors with poor rates.

• Ask if they charge commission fees on top of the exchange rate.

• Exchange in smaller amounts multiple times. Don’t convert a huge sum all at once in case the lira declines during your trip.

Using Local Currency Saves Money

At the end of the day, using the Turkish lira rather than euros is going to be the most budget friendly option in most cases.

By using lira, you’ll avoid getting overcharged and you’ll have a better trip experience by embracing the local culture and currency.

But having a small supply of euros as backup can be helpful in tourist hubs when needed. Just try to rely on lira as much as possible if you want to save money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use US dollars in Turkey?

Some tourist businesses may accept USD, but not as widely as euros. You’re still better off using Turkish lira for the majority of transactions.

Do I need to tip in euros or lira?

It’s better to tip in lira. But in tourist areas, service workers somewhat expect euros or USD tips from foreign guests.

Can I use euros in Cappadocia?

Yes, many hotels and activities in Cappadocia accept euros as it’s a major tourist destination. But the local currency is still recommended for the best prices.

Is it better to get lira from an ATM or exchange euros?

ATMs give the best rates if your bank doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. But it’s good to have some lira cash on hand as backup by exchanging a small amount of euros.

The Bottom Line

While euros are accepted in many tourist regions of Turkey, you’ll ultimately save money by primarily using the local Turkish lira. Paying in euros often results in getting overcharged.

Have a small supply of euros as backup for when needed, but otherwise withdraw lira from an ATM or exchange your euros for the best deals.