Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

Fodor's Travel Talk Forums (https://www.fodors.com/community/)
-   Europe (https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/)
-   -   Changing $ to T Lira on weekend (https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/changing-to-t-lira-on-weekend-634681/)

Lee Jul 28th, 2006 06:38 AM

Changing $ to T Lira on weekend
 
We will be arriving in Istanbul late Friday night. What would be the best way to change $ to Turkish lira on the weekend--best rate, etc.?

Neopolitan Jul 28th, 2006 06:42 AM

In my opinion your best bet and best rate would be by leaving the $ at home in your checking account and removing them in Istanbul in the form of lira from an ATM machine. Why would you want to take them and exchange them which involves a great fee and a poorer exchange rate?

ira Jul 28th, 2006 06:49 AM

ditto

fishee Jul 28th, 2006 07:05 AM

You can withdraw lira at the airport ATM's at any time with your debit card. Remember to bring at least 20 cash with you to purchase your entry visa if you are a U.S. citizen -- can't recall the exact amount but I think it was $15 USD. You need to purchase this before you leave the customs area at IST -- they take Euro or dollars or lira for the visa.

Lee Jul 29th, 2006 07:04 AM

Thanks for the suggestions. Has anyone had trouble with rejected ATM cards and/or Pin #s?

fishee Jul 30th, 2006 07:39 AM

No, there are tons of ATMS in IST and never had a problem -- nut I always bring two debit cards just in case.

Don't forget to have some USD in your wallet for the entry visa -- the ATMS are available after clearing customs, not before. Have fun!

tmh Jul 30th, 2006 09:24 AM

Check with your bank about ATM usage. I've seen too many posts here about 4 or 6 digit PINs; pulling from only one account (checking vs savings), etc. They should be able to address you answer best based on the card you have.

Lee Jul 30th, 2006 10:17 AM

Thanks so much to all!!


All times are GMT -8. The time now is 11:28 AM.