Turkey offers excellent value for travelers. Prices are significantly lower than in Western Europe, the US, or Japan. In 2026, the exchange rate continues to favor foreign visitors. A meal that costs $10 in the US costs about $5-7 in Turkey. A hotel room that costs $150 in Paris costs $60-80 in Istanbul.
This guide gives you current prices and budgeting advice. All prices are in US dollars as a reference. Exchange rates change; check before you go.
| Item | Budget Price | Mid-Range Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street food (simit, börek, döner sandwich) | $1-3 | $4-6 | |
| Sit-down restaurant meal (local restaurant) | $5-8 | $10-15 | |
| Three-course dinner (tourist area) | $10-15 | $20-30 | |
| Beer (0.5L in restaurant) | $3-4 | $5-7 | |
| Turkish tea (çay) | $0.50-1 | $1-2 | |
| Coffee (Turkish coffee or espresso) | $1.50-2.50 | $3-5 | |
| Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.30-0.50 | $0.50-1 | |
| Hostel dorm bed (Istanbul) | $15-25 | — | |
| Budget hotel double room (Istanbul) | $40-60 | $70-100 | |
| Mid-range hotel double (Istanbul) | — | $80-140 | |
| Cappadocia cave hotel double | $60-90 | $100-180 | |
| Museum entry (Ephesus, Hagia Sophia, etc.) | $10-20 per site | Included in tours | |
| Hot air balloon (Cappadocia) | — | $200-350 |
Euros and US dollars are accepted in some tourist shops and hotels, but the exchange rate will be poor. Use Turkish Lira for everything. You get Lira from ATMs or exchange offices. Foreign currency is rarely accepted in restaurants, supermarkets, or local transport.
ATMs are everywhere in Turkish cities. Most accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus). Be aware:
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, mid-range and upscale restaurants, and larger shops. Visa and Mastercard are standard. American Express is accepted in fewer places. Small restaurants, markets, and street food vendors expect cash.
Exchange offices (döviz) offer competitive rates in city centers and near tourist sites. Avoid exchanging at airports (rates are worse) or hotels (even worse). Compare rates at two different exchange offices before you change money.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. General guidelines:
Bargaining is expected in the Grand Bazaar, carpet shops, and markets. It is not common in supermarkets, restaurants, or normal retail stores (except for large purchases like carpets or jewelry). Start at 30-50% of the asking price and negotiate to a middle point.
You do not need to carry large amounts of cash. ATMs are widespread. For safety, carry $100-200 equivalent in Lira plus your cards. Keep larger amounts in your hotel safe.