Using your card in Turkey: The complete guide
If you're planning to travel to Turkey, you might wonder if you have to carry Turkish liras (TRY), or if you can use your debit card while sightseeing and shopping abroad. Holidays should be relaxing, not stressful — and preparing in advance will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises in Turkey.Read on to find out if you can use your debit card while in Turkey, which ATMs are available to tourists, if you risk being charged extra fees, and much more.
Can I use my debit card in Turkey?
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, using a debit card in foreign countries like Turkey can come in handy — not only for convenience but also as an extra measure in case you run out of Turkish liras. Generally speaking, many establishments in Turkey accept debit cards, especially cards affiliated with major international payment networks like Visa or Mastercard.
Are debit cards widely accepted in Turkey?
Debit cards have become increasingly popular in Turkey, and widely accepted in urban areas and tourist destinations. Many establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, have card payment terminals that accept debit cards from major international networks like Visa and Mastercard, but generally speaking, most places are happier with cash.
While major cities and tourist areas in Turkey typically accept debit cards, some smaller shops, local vendors, or remote locations may only accept cash. Carrying some Turkish lira for these situations is always a good idea. Make sure to take enough cash with you as Turkish ATMs can unexpectedly reject your card.
Tips for using your debit card in Turkey
Follow our tips for a smooth and secure experience when using your debit card in Turkey:
- Before traveling to Turkey, notify your bank about your travel plans. This prevents your card from being flagged for suspicious activity, and you can access your funds without any fuss.
- Always carry some Turkish liras for small purchases, street vendors, or establishments that only accept cash.
- When using your debit card or ATMs in Turkey, always opt to be charged in Turkish liras to avoid higher exchange fees. The exchange rate offered by your bank will usually be a better deal than the rate at the ATM or card terminal, so it’s smart to pay in local currency.
- Keep your debit card secure, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Use ATMs in well-lit and secure areas, such as banks or shopping malls. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently, and try to choose ATMs with lower withdrawal fees.
- Always check your transaction receipts and monitor your account activity regularly. Report any unauthorized transactions to your bank immediately.
Using ATMs in Turkey
Most ATMs in Turkey are equipped to accept international debit cards. These ATMs typically display logos of international card networks like Visa and Mastercard. When inserting your card, the ATM usually prompts you to choose your preferred language and transaction type. The withdrawal limits at Turkish ATMs vary between ₺1,500 to ₺5,000 Turkish liras per transaction. Plan to make your withdrawals during bank opening hours — otherwise, your session might expire before your transaction is complete!Several banks in Turkey are known for being more accommodating to international cardholders, including Isbank, Ziraat Bankasi, and Garanti Bank. Also, because of card cloning and ATM tampering, you're safer using ATMs near bank branches or at the airport.
Say goodbye to exchange rate markups
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Foreign transaction fees to look out
Paying with your N26 card when traveling
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FAQs
Visa and Mastercard are definitely the most widely accepted debit card networks in Turkey, as well as Maestro. Travelers with these cards benefit from accessible and convenient payments and cash withdrawals.
Before traveling to Turkey, check if your debit card is affiliated with one of these major networks.
Although using your debit card in Turkey is usually safe, being aware of potential risks can help you and your funds stay secure. Stick to official ATMs near bank branches or with bank lobbies, and look for anything suspicious.
Using trusted ATMs and practicing good card and password handling habits can improve your financial safety while you’re exploring Turkey.
You can use your debit card to withdraw cash in Turkey from several different banks, Isbank, Ziraat Bankasi, and Garanti Bank. Due to ATM tampering, you're safer using ATMs near bank branches or at the airport.
But be mindful of your daily withdrawal limits! To withdraw large amounts of Turkish liras, you may need to make multiple transactions over a few days or temporarily increase your withdrawal limit through your bank or banking app.
Yes, using your debit card in Turkey may incur fees from 0 to 10% of the amount being withdrawn. At N26, all our accounts come with free card payments worldwide — as often as you like and with no foreign transaction fees.
And remember: When in doubt, always choose to be charged in Turkey’s local currency, the Turkish lira (TRY), you may need to make multiple transactions over a few days or temporarily increase your withdrawal limit through your bank or banking app.
Using ATMs in Turkey is generally safe. However, that doesn’t mean you should throw your good security habits out the window! Boost your financial safety by choosing secure locations, inspecting ATMs for signs of tampering, shielding your PIN, and monitoring your account activity closely.
Losing your debit card or having it stolen in Turkey can be challenging, but it's not the end of your travels.
Once you realize your debit card is missing, contact your bank's customer service or international helpline to report the loss or theft. Provide details such as your account number, card number (if you know it), and the date and location where you last used the card.
With N26, you can easily lock your card or turn off international payments, right in your N26 app. Here's what else to do if you suspect a fraud.
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