What currency to bring to Istanbul and how to exchange money?
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: 27 days ago
TL;DR
Bring euros and US dollars, exchange to Turkish lira as needed — the rate shifts daily in favor of foreign currency. A travel card like UP can also be useful.
What the community said
The safest combination is euros, US dollars, and a travel card like UP. The exchange and card situation can change rapidly, so having multiple options is wise.
27 days ago UP card
Bring euros or US dollars to Turkey and exchange them for lira locally as needed — not all at once.
27 days ago
If you need a large amount right away, exchange it all at once. Otherwise, exchange small amounts as needed — the Turkish lira tends to weaken daily, so tomorrow's rate will usually be better than today's.
27 days ago