One of the first questions you might have while planning your trip is how much traveling in Turkey will cost. Of course, how much you spend will vary greatly based upon the type of traveler you are and how luxurious of an experience you want to have. Staying at 5-star hotels, dining at top restaurants, getting around by plane, rental car and the occasional hot-air balloon flight or private yacht cruise will be considerably more costly than staying in hostels and taking charter buses. Rest assured, Turkey has plenty of options for every budget.
In general, travel costs in Turkey are highest in Istanbul in April–May and September–October; and at Turkish beach resorts in July and August; lowest in the small towns of eastern Turkey, and off-season (November through March).
Find more information on when to visit Turkey in the Turkish Almanac
Turkey Trip Cost & Inflation
In Summer 2018, the value of the Turkish lira dropped significantly versus major currencies. In late 2021, its value continued to decline quickly. Annual inflation in Turkey reached a two-decade high of more than 80% in 2022. As of Summer 2023, inflation still remains high and the cost of goods and services change frequently. We have made our best attempts to list all prices accurately on this page but be aware that prices continue to fluctuate.
As of July 2023, here is the current, estimated average price for each of the following categories:
Below you’ll find the average costs of a one-night stay on a weekend in July 2023. Read more about hotel classes and types of accommodations in Turkey.
- Luxury/specialty hotels: 15,000-25,000TL+ ($600-$1,000+) for the most luxurious of hotels.
- 5-star hotels: 5,000-10,000TL ($200-$400) per night at international chain hotels (İstanbul). 5,000-15,000TL ($200-600) in other cities such as Antalya & İzmir.
- 4-star hotels: 3,000-5,000TL ($120-$200)
- 3-star hotels: 1,000-3,000TL ($40-$120)
- Budget: 800-1,500TL (less than $60)
Here are some example prices for other types of accommodations:
- All-inclusive resort in Antalya: 8,000TL+ per night ($320+)
- Small villa rental with a pool in Çeşme: 5,000TL+ per night ($200)
- Cave hotel in Cappadocia: 2,500-6,000TL+ per night ($100-240+)
- Hostel near Pamukkale: around 1,000TL per night ($40)
There are many types of ways to get around Turkey. For longer distances, taking a flight is generally recommended. However, for those with more time, riding buses and trains and even taking public transit can be a good option. In some regions where local transportation doesn’t come as frequently, using a rental car can be more practical.
Find more information on transportation.
Airfare
Domestic flights on Turkish Airlines and its subsidiary Anadolu Jet tend to be more costly but offer a smoother experience. Other airlines such as Sun Express and Pegasus Airlines offer discount fares but you generally need to pay extra for meals or drinks, seat selection, and you should check the fare information carefully to determine the size and weight limits for checked and carry-on baggage. There are also many budget airlines that have direct international flights from nearby European countries and the Middle East.
Here are sample one-way airfare costs in 2023:
İstanbul-Antalya: 900-2,000TL ($35-80)
İzmir-Kayseri: 1,800-6,000TL ($70-240)
Dalaman (Mediterranean region)- İstanbul: 1,000-2,300TL ($40-90)
İstanbul-Ankara: 750-2,300TL ($30-$90)
Intercity Bus Tickets:
İstanbul-Ankara: 300-400TL ($12-16)
İzmir- Denizli (Pamukkale): 160-230TL ($6-9)
Ankara- Nevşehir (Cappadocia): 300TL ($12)
Public Transportation:
The cost of public transportation is quite affordable. Here are the prices for some of the major cities:
İstanbul Metro: 9.90TL normal fare with an additional 5.48TL for transfer to bus/tram.
İzmir Metro: 8.78TL starting fare with an additional 3.5 TL for transfer to bus/tram.
Antalya tram: 8TL with an additional 3TL for transfer to bus/tram.
Taxi:
İstanbul: 40TL minimum fare, starting at 12,70TL + 8.50TL/km Read more about avoiding taxi scams.
İzmir: 30TL minimum fare, starting at 7TL 13 TL/km. Airport to city center approximately 350TL.
Antalya: 50TL minimum fare, starting at 14TL + 18TL/km. A 15-20 minute ride is around 60-80TL.
Ankara: 30TL minimum fare, starting at 12TL + 10TL/km.
Rental Cars/ Petrol:
Renting from larger firms/international companies is more expensive but also provides more reliability. There are many options when choosing a rental car.
For an economic, manual transmission car, excluding petrol or additional insurance, with drop off in the same city as pick-up, you can expect to pay around 900TL-1200TL and up per day.
For larger vehicles and an automatic transmission 1200-2000TL and up per day. However, prices increase as the date approaches and can be significantly higher during peak tourist season.
As of June 2023, petrol was approximately 24TL/liter which is roughly $3.48 per gallon. Also note that there are additional costs for rental cars in Turkey, including tolls for highways and bridges.
Private Transfers:
Another option is to just book a private transfer when going from the airport to your destination. It can make for a more pleasant and smooth arrival and is affordable especially when traveling with a family or group.
Tours
For the best prices and most updated information on the following tours, contact one of our trusted travel agencies by filling out the form at the bottom of the linked pages. Note that the cost will depend on the length and size of the tour as well as peak and off-peak season rates. Private guided tours and group tours are available. Learn more about why booking a tour is a great idea.
Whether you want to take a ride on a hot-air balloon flight or set sail on a private yacht cruise, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. We also can connect you with our recommended guides if you are interested in a shopping tour, a one-day tour of Istanbul, a 14-day tour of Turkey, or a customized tour based on your preferences.
Many Turkish travel companies such as hotels, car rental agencies, tour operators, etc., price their products and services in dollars or euros. You may need to request the price in Turkish lira as their exchange rate could vary compared to the daily bank rate.
Find more information on converting euros and dollars to liras.
From street kebabs to elaborate traditional Turkish breakfast, eating is part of the experience of visiting Turkey. Assuming your hotel does not include breakfast, you might spend the following:
Breakfast: 120-200TL/person for a large breakfast buffet with unlimited tea. Espresso-based drinks around 65TL.
Lunch: 60-80TL for a wrap or salad, 30-40TL for a drink.
Dinner:120-200TL for a meat-based dish, 40-50 TL for appetizers (meze), alcoholic beverages 60-120 TL+
Water: 20-30 TL per day.
This assumes dining at midrange restaurants. Therefore, the average person might spend $20-35+/day. Those who wish to save money and have a more budget travel experience can save by eating at smaller eateries outside of the touristy areas or even opting to make meals at their hotel or Airbnb.
You even find that after eating a large Turkish breakfast, you would prefer to spend a few lira on some fresh fruit from the local markets instead of having lunch.
Note that it’s generally not advisable to drink tap water. Some hotels will provide 1 free bottle per day.
Entertainment Costs
While in Turkey, it is only natural to take advantage of the beautiful nature and activities offered by the country. Turkey has many choices of activities. Let's see the most popular cities in Turkey and some of the main attractions and how much they cost.
Beach Prices in Turkey.
There are many free public beaches in Turkey which locals and visitors enjoy alike.
There are also VIP beach clubs for people looking for a more luxurious experience without the crowds. These clubs will generally include:
Sunbeds (50-70TL)
DJs (Included in the entrance fee of 100-150TL)
Drinks (60-150TL)
There may also be other free attractions and amenities on site. Some beach clubs may have free entrance but require a minimum amount spent per person. Others may charge a flat rate but allow you to redeem that amount for food or drink on-site.
Beach clubs can be very popular during the summer so it’s wise to call ahead and make a reservation if possible.
Read more to learn about the best beaches in Turkey here.
Water Sports Prices in Turkey
Three quarters of Turkey is surrounded by sea. So, the country offers breathtaking activities for water sports enthusiasts. Let's have a look at common water sports and typical prices in Turkey:
Scuba Diving Tour $20-30
Rafting, ATV / Quad Ride & Zipline Adventure Tour $30
Diving in the Mediterranean Sea $40-50
Canyoning and Rafting Tours $30-50
Antalya/Kemer Boat Tours $30-50
Please note prices may change depending on the agency and based per person.
Day Trip Prices in Turkey
Turkey has many historical and natural wonders, so it is no wonder there are many day trips to these historic places. Let's look at prices for the most popular day trips in Turkey:
Sapadere Canyon and Dwarf Cave Tours $25+
Pamukkale and Hierapolis Daily Tours $50-80+
Gallipoli Day Trip From Istanbul $65+
Highlights of Istanbul Old City $80-100+
Antalya Full Day City Tour $50-100+
Diving in the Mediterranean Sea $50+
Antalya Jeep Safari Adventure $50+
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia: $100-$250+
Note that these prices can change significantly during peak summer season when demand is at an all-time high. It also can vary according to the quality of service and amenities that are provided by the tour operator.
For more information, please check our excursions page here.
Nightlife in Turkey
Some people may prefer nightlife. Turkey also has a big industry with clubs and bars with fully English-speaking staff. These clubs generally take an entrance fee included with the first drink of the night. Drinks in clubs will be slightly more expensive than in markets:
Beer between 60-100TL
Wine 60-100TL per glass.
Cocktails 100-150TL
Entrance fee (generally first drink of the night included) 100-150TL
So, the average daily cost for nightlife would be around 500-80 TL.
Learn more about nightlife in Turkey here.
Museum Prices in Turkey
Turkey has an enormous history that will captivate many. Naturally, the country has many museums to tell its culture and history to locals and tourists alike. You can always get a Museum Pass (not Museum Kart, which is for Turkish people) that will let you visit all the museums run by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism for 1,000TL which will save money. Regardless, let's look at Turkey's biggest museums and their prices.
Archaeological Museums: 200TL, free of charge for children under twelve years old.
Basilica Cistern: 350TL
Blue Mosque: Free
Dolmabahçe Palace: 450TL, free of charge for children under six years old.
Hagia Sophia: Free
Istanbul Modern: 300TL
Grand Bazaar of Istanbul: Free
LEGOLAND Discovery Center 450TL
For more information, please check our Museums in Turkey page.
About Turkish Money
In recent years, the value of the Turkish lira against the US dollar and the Euro has been favorable for travelers.
Note that the New Turkish Lira notes (YTL: Yeni Türk Lirası), current from 2005 through 2008, have been withdrawn from circulation, and you should not accept them, though it is rare to encounter them. Accept only the “E9” series Turkish Lira bills/notes introduced in 2009.
Here’s information on counterfeit notes/bills in Turkey.
Book a Trip to Turkey
Turkey remains a remarkably diverse and captivating destination that offers an extensive range of experiences for any budget.
Whether you're a luxury-seeking wanderer or a frugal backpacker, there's a wealth of options to cater to your travel style. From exploring historic landmarks and basking in breathtaking landscapes to indulging in delectable Turkish cuisine, every moment spent in Turkey is bound to be a cherished memory.
Embark on your journey today and discover the wonders of this enchanting country.
—by Tom Brosnahan, updated by Can Turan
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