Where to exchange money in Istanbul — airport vs Taksim vs Beyoglu?
Based on 1 discussion with 3 participants · Last activity: 22 days ago
TL;DR
Sabiha Gökçen airport has exchange offices for small amounts (e.g. to buy an İstanbulkart). Taksim and Beyoglu districts have numerous exchange offices with competitive rates.
What the community said
Sabiha Gökçen airport has exchange offices in the arrivals area — handy for changing a small amount to buy and top up an İstanbulkart right away. Rates are worse than in the city, but acceptable for small sums.
22 days ago Sabiha Gökçen Airport, arrivals hall
The Beyoglu district near Taksim has many private exchange offices with competitive rates. USD and EUR are exchanged without issues. It's worth comparing rates at a few offices as they can vary noticeably.
22 days ago Beyoglu / Taksim area
Around Taksim Square, exchange offices are found on the main streets and side alleys — especially along İstiklal Avenue. Rates are generally better than at the airport or hotels.
22 days ago İstiklal Avenue, Taksim Square