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Cash also remains a popular way to pay across the country, so a cash withdrawal could be an option. Just be wary of cash advance fees and cash advance APR that are common with credit cards.
Consider a credit card without foreign transaction fees or an airline cobranded card that saves you money on flights, checked bags or lounge access.
Turkish Airlines and United Airlines are members of the Star Alliance. This means you can earn and redeem miles on Turkish Airlines flights with a cobranded credit card from United Airlines.
Also, the two United credit cards have no foreign transaction fees.
Whether you’ll pay any fees on your purchases abroad depends on your card. For example, you could pay:
Yes. Avoid this by paying in local currency and getting a credit card without foreign transaction fees.
Visa and Mastercard are most commonly accepted card networks in Turkey, and American Express credit cards are accepted more widely than Discover cards — especially at expensive hotels and restaurants.
If you’re a Discover cardmember looking to make cash withdrawals, look for Citibank and Garanti ATMs. American Express owners can choose ATMs from Akbank, Vakifbank, Garanti and Turkiye Bankasi among others.
| Visa |  High | High |
| Mastercard | High | High |
| American Express |  Medium | High |
| Discover | Medium |  Low |
You’ll need cash if you’re planning to shop from street vendors, market stands, or if you’re going to use public transportation or taxis.
ATMs are widespread across Istanbul and other cities, but expect to pay high cash advance fees and APR if you’re using a credit card. Use a debit card to avoid cash advance fees and an APR.
Most taxis in Turkey accept only cash. There are some, however, that may accept credit cards.
Also, don’t expect to find Uber rides in Turkey, as Uber has been declared illegal since 2018.
These are the most common types of credit cards used in Turkey. You could use a chip and signature card, but it may not be accepted everywhere. To avoid unnecessary frustration, ask your bank to provide a four-digit PIN for your card before traveling.
Using a credit card in Turkey is safe, but exercising caution is advised.
You can use your credit card in most places in Turkey, including hotels, restaurants and most museums. Mastercard and Visa are most popular, but some merchants may accept American Express and Discover cards. However, you may still need cash to fully enjoy Turkey.
If you’re looking to make cash withdrawals, consider carrying a debit card to avoid cash advance fees and an APR. For all other card purchases, get a travel credit card without foreign transaction fees.
See more guides on using a credit card in other countries.
Do Turkish hospitals accept international credit cards?
Hi Corinne,
Thanks for reaching out to Finder.
Yes, Turkish hospitals accept international credit cards. In fact, paying patients may be required to pay a deposit towards the cost of treatment, usually by credit card and to leave a credit card imprint.
All doctors in Turkey as well are required to accept payment by credit card for consultations or appointments.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Charisse