Vacation in Turkey: These mistakes will cost you money and nerves!

Vacation in Turkey: These mistakes will cost you money and nerves!

Turkey will be one of the most attractive travel destinations for German holidaymakers in 2025. Forecasts indicate that up to 7.5 million Germans want to discover the country's cultural and scenic beauties this year. To ensure a carefree stay, some important rules of conduct and information must be observed.

Alcohol consumption is particularly a sensitive issue: In Turkey, drinking alcohol in public places such as parks and beaches is prohibited by law and can be punished with fines. Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed premises and there are reports of counterfeit alcohol which can lead to serious health risks.

Legal particularities and rules of conduct

Compliance with local dress codes is necessary, especially outside tourist areas and near religious sites. Nude bathing and nudism are banned throughout Türkiye, which can result in fines. Travelers should also be careful when it comes to taking photos. Military installations, border posts and religious places are often taboo.

Although homosexual acts are not a criminal offense, there are strong prejudices against LGBTIQ people in society. Public statements against the state are also punishable and can have serious consequences. Drug offenses are rigorously prosecuted and can result in lengthy prison sentences. Travelers should also be careful not to export any cultural or natural goods, as this can also result in imprisonment.

Financial Notes

In Turkey, payments are made with the Turkish Lira (TRY), and withdrawing money with a German giro card is possible at many ATMs, but often with a fee. Exchanging money at the airport should be avoided, and credit cards are an accepted form of payment in many locations. Tourists should find out about prices in bazaars in order not to make overpriced purchases. Taxis should only be arranged with the meter on or in advance.

A holiday trip to Turkey has a lot to offer, as long as certain rules and cultural peculiarities are observed. Turkey is not only a geographical bridge between Europe and Asia, but also culturally. Despite religious differences, the cultural distance to Europe is smaller than often assumed. Before traveling, it is recommended to find out about local customs and customs.

Cultural insights and hospitality

Hospitality is a central part of Turkish culture. Private invitations are a great honor, and it is common to be served tea or coffee during visits. This also includes taking off your shoes when entering households. Furthermore, the average marriage age for women in Turkey is under 25, with arranged marriages often being practiced in rural areas.

The best time to travel to Turkey is spring and autumn, as the summer months can often be very hot. Turkish is the official language, although English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas. Well-known main dishes are mostly non-vegetarian, and popular souvenirs are Nazar amulets, which are considered to protect against the evil eye.

If you consciously deal with local laws and cultural norms, nothing stands in the way of an enriching stay in Turkey.