The currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL) and it comes in the following denominations:
Notes: TL10,000,000, 5,000,000, 1,000,000, 500,000, 250,000 and 100,000
Coins: TL100,000, 50,000, 25,000, 10,000 and 5000
Traveler's Checks and Cash:
Traveler’s checks can be exchanged at banks, exchange shops, hotels, and international airports at moderate exchange rates. Typically, banks and exchange shops are open only on weekdays. Larger banks may offer the best exchange rates, but avoid black marketers at all cost.
The exchange rate of the Turkish lira is constantly changing, so it is advisable to change money often and to keep the amount as small as practically possible. Also, scrutinize your bills carefully, as it is far too easy to misinterpret all the zeroes such as a 100,000-lira note could easily be mistaken for a 10,000 lira note. If carrying cash, ask your bank for crisp and new notes. Old and soiled notes may be refused.
Credit Cards and ATM:
Major credit cards are readily accepted in up-market places in the main cities, but in little shops and cafes they may ask for cash. Credit card transactions receive the most favorable exchange rates. ATMs are commonplace and some banks in the capital offer cash advances on credit cards if accompanied by passport identification.
Here are some listings you may find useful:
American Express
There are four offices in Istanbul, check the website for locations:
http://travel.americanexpress.com/travel/personal/resources/tso/
MasterCard/Maestro/Cirrus ATM Locations
MasterCard: http://www.mastercard.com/atm/
There are 700 ATM’s in Ankara, and 1,000 in Istanbul, with many more around the country.
Visa ATM locations
Visa: http://www.visa.com/pd/atm/main.html
There are over 450 ATM’s in Turkey. Visa’s website enables you to type in the address of your whereabouts to obtain a map and address of the three ATM’s closest to your location.
Money Emergencies:
Lost or Stolen Cards and Checks
American Express Card Toll-free [1] (800) 268-9824
Diners Club Collect [1] (303) 799-1504
MasterCard Toll free00-800-13-887-0903
Visa Card Toll free00-800-13-535-0900
If you need money sent to you go to:
MoneyGram
There are 19 agents in Istanbul. Here are some centrally located ones:
KOCBANK
Cagologlu Nurosmaniye #82; Istanbul
tel: [90] (212) 512-9484
KOCBANK
Bagdat Cad 394 Suadiye; Istanbul
tel: [90] (216) 302-1984
KOCBANK
Sahrayicedid Nah Ataturk; Istanbul
tel: [90] (216) 386-2110
