Turkey
No WHV with Australia. Turkey offers a cheap, accessible 90-day e-visa. Istanbul, Cappadocia and the Turquoise Coast are the standard circuit. Gallipoli is a meaningful pilgrimage for many Aussies.
Currency
TRY
1 AUD = 25.5 TRY (mid-market, 2026-05-21)
Cost of living
45% of Sydney
Working Holiday Visa for Australians
No WHV with Australia
Tourist or short-stay entry
e-Visa
Up to 3 months. Work rights: none.
Australians need a Turkish e-Visa (USD 60) for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day window.
Source: www.evisa.gov.tr
Highlights
- Istanbul connects Europe and Asia; Turkish Airlines hub for onward travel.
- Cappadocia balloon flights, Pamukkale pools and Ephesus ruins are iconic.
- Anzac Day at Gallipoli draws several thousand Australians each April 25.
- Cost of living has dropped sharply due to inflation; AUD goes a long way in 2026.
Watch outs
- Inflation has been very high; quoted prices for tours and hotels change weekly.
- Eastern border zones carry Do Not Travel advice; check Smartraveller.
- Earthquake risk; check AFAD app for alerts.
- Photography near military and government buildings is prohibited.
Money tips
- Garanti BBVA, Akbank and Ziraat ATMs accept foreign cards.
- Pay in TRY at restaurants and shops; refuse Dynamic Currency Conversion to AUD or EUR.
- Bargaining is expected at the Grand Bazaar; start at 30-40% of asking price.
- Tipping 10% in restaurants, round up for taxis.
Typical costs (AUD)
- Hostel bed per night
- $20
- Budget meal
- $6
- Mid-range meal
- $18
- Beer (bar)
- $7
- Public transport day pass
- $4
Indicative only. Tourist-zone prices are usually 50-100% higher than local prices.
Practical basics
- Power plug
- Type C / F
- Drives on
- Right
- Emergency number
- 112
Sources
Last updated 2026-05-21.