Currency exchange (Istanbul)

[Kevin Sowten]

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)   

[JohnF]

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

[nichola]

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.

[nichola]

Rate of exchange at the bank this morning up to 2.73; last Monday about 2.67.

[Kevin Sowten]

Methinks we were too close to the Sultanahmet last time 
Thanks for the tips !!

[nichola]

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   

[Kevin Sowten]

You too Nichola   

[nichola]

Thanks, I always do. Such a marvelous city