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Back in the spring of 2013 I wrote this post on prices in Turkey for travelers and noted that the booming economic times seemed to be leading to higher and higher prices. Overall it felt to me like only a slightly better deal then western Europe and a worse value than Portugal.
Since then rates have definitely swung in the favor of tourists, thanks to a slowing local economy and a strong U.S. dollar. Whereas in 2013 the exchange rate was 1.7 Turkish lira to the dollar, just three years later it’s 3 to the dollar. I’ll do the math for you: that’s an increased buying power of 76%. Even if you factor in inflation, that makes a huge difference. Beer and wine seem less costly, nice restaurants seem more affordable, and the hefty admission charges that can add up are now easier to swallow. The cheap things the average Turk spends money on are cheaper.
I was only in Istanbul on this trip, invited as a speaker for the World Tourism Forum. I arrived a few days early though, exploring on my own and doing a fantastic food and markets tour with Walks of Turkey on the Asian side in Kadikoy. Here’s what I found for costs in Turkey for travelers, all converted to U.S. dollars.
Food & Drink Prices in Istanbul
Coming to Istanbul and not eating out a lot would be a crying shame. This is one of the world’s best cities for food. Thankfully if you avoid the tourist districts and the luxury hotels, you can dine well here without plowing through a lot of cash. Alcohol prices are high here in comparison though, thanks to hefty sin taxes from the nanny Islamic-leaning party. It’s not hard to find in this city—just expensive.
Turkish glass of tea: 35 cents to $1
Coffee: 65 cents to $1.35
Soda: $1 – $2
Cappuccino or latte: $1 – $2
Beer in a store: $1.35 – $2
Beer in a bar: $2.50 – $6 (330 or 500 liters)
Glass of wine in a restaurant: $3 – $10
Bottle of local wine or raki in a restaurant: $10 – $25
100 grams of nuts/dried fruit: 65 cents to $2
100 grams of already shelled pistachios: $3.35
Kilo of seasonal fruit/vegetables: $1 – $3
Kilo of olives: $6 – $8
Sesame semit: 35 cents
Doner kebab sandwich: $1 – $1.50
Street food meal: $1.35 – $3
Main dishes, non-tourist restaurant: $1.65 – $6
Ice cream novelties: 15 cents to $1
Transportation Prices in Istanbul
The main number you need to know is 4 because every metro, tram, bus or ferry ride that’s not an especially long distance costs 4 Turkish lira. For taxis, there is a meter (in the rear-view mirror, which threw me) and when they use it the prices are reasonable. Find out how much it should be though because some drivers don’t like to use it if there’s traffic. And there’s always traffic if it’s daytime. Expect Uber to cost more, but can be more convenient with no haggling.
Local transportation: $1.35 one-way
Taxi rides: $3 – $20+ (airport)
Blacklane.com airport car service: $45 – $75
Admission and Activity Prices
So far official admission prices haven’t gone up to compensate for the lower lira, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they do eventually.
Hagia Sophia & other major sites: $10
Second-level museums/sites: $5 – $6
Museum Pass Istanbul (12 sites): $30
Day tour with Walks of Turkey: $41 – $107
$20 a night Taksim Hotel in Istanbul
Hostel and Hotel Prices in Istanbul
Lodging prices are a screaming bargain in this city now, especially outside of summer. In the ranges below, you’ll find a wealth of choices, even at the low end.
Hostel bed in dorm – $8- $16
Cheap hotel double private room: $12 – $25
4-star hotel, double: $25 – $90
See this post on how to have a great experience without spending a fortune: Europe on the Cheap(er): Istanbul.
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