Calis Beach and Fethiye Turkey Discussion Forum

Calis Beach Forum => Calis Beach Questions and Information => Topic started by: Kevin Sowten on March 18, 2013, 11:15:37 AM

Title: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: Kevin Sowten on March 18, 2013, 11:15:37 AM
For holiday money we generally bring sterling to Fethiye and exchange it locally as exchange rates are better than UK.
Last time we went to Istanbul we noticed that exchange rates were much closer to UK rates than Fethiye rates.
Is this still the case ? (we are in Istanbul 24 - 31 March)   :)
Title: Re: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: JohnF on March 18, 2013, 11:41:02 AM
The rates in the banks are the same as you'd get in Fethiye.  If using a döviz, don't use the ones in tourist areas as like in any major city, you're unlikely to get a good rate.  Saying that, some of the best rates I've had have been in a little one near the Kapalıçarşı - they're giving 2.7 to the £ just now, don't know how that compares with Fethiye.

JF
Title: Re: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: nichola on March 18, 2013, 12:35:32 PM
The best exchange rates in Istanbul that I have found are the exchange offices inside the Grand Bazaar at the bottom - far end from the tram line. All the traders there use these.

Otherwise use the exchange offices very close to the Bazaar - tram entrances; there are a few you can check out and compare there. If you change your money a couple of hundred yards down the road in Sultanahmet expect to find substantially lower rates of exchange. I don't bother changing in the banks in Istanbul.
Title: Re: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: nichola on March 18, 2013, 12:36:31 PM
Rate of exchange at the bank this morning up to 2.73; last Monday about 2.67.
Title: Re: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: Kevin Sowten on March 18, 2013, 12:39:24 PM
Methinks we were too close to the Sultanahmet last time  :(
Thanks for the tips !!
Title: Re: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: nichola on March 18, 2013, 14:45:04 PM
I miss you by two days Kevin... yes the rate in Sultanahmet is pitiful. Around the Grand Bazaar easily as good if not better than Fethiye. Have a lovely time   :)
Title: Re: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: Kevin Sowten on March 18, 2013, 15:48:31 PM
You too Nichola   :)
Title: Re: Currency exchange (Istanbul)
Post by: nichola on March 18, 2013, 16:05:06 PM
Thanks, I always do. Such a marvelous city   :)