How much Lira should I take to Turkey?

[jc80220]

At first I was thinking the equivalent of pounds, but 2000 Lira seems a bit much considering all I'm paying for is three evenings room service and a single taxi 😄 Any advice?

[CosmoKramer]

Why worry and take any when you can just get what you need as needed as they have many Currency Exchange shops all over the place there.

[JST07]

I paid for room service with my credit card and just had enough cash for tips. 

2000 lira seems a bit excessive. But you can always change it back in the airport? 

I only had Euros on me, and the room service staff / taxi staff were happy to accept tips in euros...

[jc80220]

Thanks, both.

I just worry my bank, HSBC, might put a lock on my account if I use my card over there, as they can be a bit dramatic with security sometimes, even though I plan to notify them of my trip. Rather just have cash in hand.

Edited November 29, 2020 by jc80220

[missingtemples]

2000 lira is definitely excessive unless you are planning to do some shopping. In a regular restaurant, you can have a meal for about 20-50 TL or a nice one for up to 100 TL. Room service shouldn't differ too much. A taxi in Istanbul would cost 200 TL tops from one of the airports to the city center only because the airports are far.

[jc80220]

Thanks, mate. Very helpful.