turkcell tourist sim 2023

Local Sim Card For Your Vacation

Get your local Simcard and stay connected during your vacation. You can get your SIM card from the nearest Turkcell store.

When you buy the Tourist Welcome Pack, you have 20GB internet, 200min. calls in all directions, unlimited messaging via BiP & whatsapp valid for 30 days.

As of 15.08.2021, Tourist Welcome Pack will be assigned to customers who purchase a new Turkcell prepaid line with a foreign passport.Tourist Welcome Pack will not be defined for lines with TCKN, YKN or other documents.

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Buy Turkcell SIM Cards for Tourists

If you’re planning a vacation in Turkcell and want to stay in touch, getting some Turkcell SIM cards is just the ticket. A SIM card investment simplifies travel to Turkcell. With low prices for data, calls and texts you will not have to pay exorbitant roaming fees from your home service provider. In this article, we will cover all the important steps someone needs to get a prepaid SIM card in Turkcell.

Table of Contents

I. Quick Facts about Turkcell

Turkcell is the clear market leader in Turkey’s telecom industry with the largest subscriber base and network nationwide. Here are some quick facts about this brand:

• Established : 1994
• Branding name : Turkcell
• Services provided : 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE mobile service, fixed broadband, IPTV
• Number of subscribers : Around 36 million (Q3 2022)
• Number of stores : Over 2,500 Turkcell stores and over 45,000 sales points
• C ustomer service : Available via phone, online chat, social media, stores
• Awards : Awarded “Best Mobile Operator of the Year” multiple times at the World Communication Awards

II. Why Turkcell When You’re Exploring Turkey – Coverage and Speed

Turkcell offers excellent coverage and speeds, making it a great choice for exploring Turkey.

1. Turkcell Coverage in Turkey

Turkcell has the best overall coverage in Turkey, covering 98% of the population. It has an extensive 4G LTE network reaching over 95% of the population, plus widespread 3G and 2G coverage. Turkcell’s network reaches all major cities and tourist destinations across the country. So you can stay conveniently connected wherever your travels take you.

2. Turkcell Speed

With an average 4G download speeds of around 30 Mbps, Turkcell provides fast and reliable mobile data throughout Turkey. Its network is well-equipped to handle high usage and congestion in crowded tourist areas. So you can enjoy smooth web browsing, social media, streaming, and more.

In summary, this mobile operator is a good choice for tourists thanks to its extensive high-speed network across Turkey.

III. Turkcell Connectivity Options for Travelers to Turkey

As a tourist visiting Turkey, you have a few options to get connected on Turkcell:

• Turkcell SIM card
• Pocket Wifi

In summary, buying a Turkcell SIM card is the most convenient connectivity option for most travelers to Turkey.

IV. Best Turkcell SIM Card for Tourists & Cost

Turkcell offers several prepaid SIM cards suitable for tourists in Turkey:

Turcell SIM

In short, the ideal Turkcell SIM card option is dependent upon your unique circumstances. The Turkcell SIM Card provides diversified plans for tourists.

V. Does Turkcell Support eSIM in Turkey?

Yes, Turkcell does offer eSIM in Turkey, only for citizens. If your mobile phone supports this technology, you will be able to obtain your new Turkcell numbers as eSIM.

VI. Where can You Buy a Turkcell SIM Card/eSIM?

To make sure you have reliable cellular access during your visit to Turkey, look into obtaining a prepaid SIM from the nation’s leading carrier, Turkcell. Their SIM cards can be bought in the following ways:

1. Where to Buy Turkcell SIM card?

Turkcell prepaid SIM cards are widely available at:

• Turkcell stores – Find them in airports, shopping malls, metro stations.
• Retail stores – Sold at phone shops, supermarkets, kiosks. Look for Turkcell signs.
• Online – Can be delivered to your hotel via websites like TurkeySIMcard.com.

When buying, you’ll need to show your passport. Opt for tourist SIMs that come ready-to-use, if available. Basic usage rates start from 20 TL ($1).

2. Where to Buy Turkcell eSIM in Turkey?

To get Turkcell eSIM as a tourist, your best option is to purchase from an international eSIM provider such as Turkey eSIM from turkeyesim.com.

You can buy directly on website. eSIM profiles are delivered to your phone via email or QR code. Prices start from $5 for 1 GB packages.

Purchasing eSIM online is easier than finding in local stores. Just activate on your phone within minutes! However, check eSIM-compatible devices list before purchasing your own!

VII. How to Activate Turkcell SIM Card/eSIM in Turkey?

1. how to use turkcell sim card in turkey.

You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready:

• Insert the SIM card : Locate the SIM card slot on your device and insert your Turkcell SIM.
• Power on your device : Turn on your phone and wait for it to recognize the new SIM.
• Activate the SIM card : Prepaid tourist SIMs are usually pre-activated. If not, call 333 from your device.
• Set up APN settings : Default APN is ‘internet’ and username/password are ‘turkcell’.
• Check your services : Make a test call and browse the internet to verify connectivity.

That’s all – you can now start using your Turkcell prepaid SIM card in Turkey!

2. How to Activate Turkcell eSIM?

Getting started with a Turkcell eSIM for Turkey is quite easy:

• Install the eSIM : Download the eSIM profile on the provider app or email to your phone. Accept installation prompts.
• Activate the eSIM : Open the app or email link. Follow prompts to activate your Turkcell eSIM plan.
• Set up the eSIM : Select Turkcell eSIM as the cellular plan. Configure settings like data usage alerts.
• Start using the eSIM : Once activated and set up, you can start using Turkcell service on your eSIM.

With a few simple steps, you’ll be set up to use Turkcell hassle-free during your stay in Turkey.

Please check detailed instructions for your device:

• Activate eSIM on iPhone
• Activate eSIM on Samsung
• Activate eSIM on Google Pixel

VIII. Turkey Turkcell Call & SMS Rates

Here are the latest Turkcell prepaid call and SMS rates for Turkey:

Turcell Call & SMS Rates

Rates may be slightly higher for prepaid SIMs. But in general, domestic calls and texts using Turkcell are quite affordable within Turkey.

IX. Useful USSD Codes for Turkcell SIM card/eSIM

Here are some useful USSD codes for checking your Turkcell account balance and more:

• *100# – Check remaining balance
• *123*RECHARGE CODE# – Recharge/top-up your prepaid credit
• *102# – Check data usage
• *111# – Check main account info and last 5 transactions
• *444*4# – Check remaining minutes, messages, data
• *555# – Turkcell customer service

Dial these codes directly on your Turkcell mobile to access account info and services quickly and easily. They work on both physical SIM and eSIM.

X. How to Top-up Turkcell SIM card/eSIM

There are several ways to top-up your Turkcell prepaid credit:

• Online – Recharge via Turkcell website/app using international credit/debit card
• Vouchers – Purchase top-up vouchers from stores and kiosks. Dial *123*CODE# to redeem.
• Stores – Visit Turkcell stores and authorized dealers to recharge in person.
• ATMs – Many ATMs support directly recharging prepaid Turkcell via bank account.

For Turkcell eSIM, the easiest way to top-up or extend your plan is through the eSIM provider’s website/app. Add funds to your wallet and renew data packages with a few clicks.

Auto top-up can be enabled to conveniently recharge your Turkcell account when your balance is low. Overall, keeping your prepaid or eSIM account topped up in Turkey is quick and straightforward.

XI. FAQs about Turkcell in Turkey

Does turkcell offer unlimited data plans.

Yes, Turkcell has unlimited data prepaid plans like Turkcell Maxi Unlimited. There are also unlimited data eSIM options through resellers. Speeds may be throttled after exceeding certain data thresholds.

Can I use Turkcell SIM in North Cyprus?

Yes, Turkcell has good roaming coverage in Northern Cyprus. But you may need to pay roaming fees outside Turkey.

How long is Turkcell SIM card valid for?

Turkcell tourist SIMs are usually valid for 15-90 days depending on plan. You can extend validity by recharging. Regular prepaid SIMs last up to 120 days from last top-up.

Does Turkcell have good coverage in Istanbul?

How can i check turkcell data usage.

You can check your data usage by dialing *102# on your Turkcell mobile or through account management apps/websites.

XII. Final Words

In summary, Turkcell is the top mobile network operator in Turkey making it a great connectivity choice for travelers. With outstanding coverage, fast speeds, and affordable prepaid SIMs, Turkcell connects you across Turkey.

For ultimate convenience, Turkcell eSIM options are also available from international providers. Just purchase a plan, activate online, and enjoy reliable service on the go.

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Best Turkey Sim Card For Tourists in 2024

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

If you’re visiting Turkey anytime soon, you’re going to want to stay connected. This is why you should consider getting yourself a Turkey sim card for tourists.

Whether you need data plans so you can share photos with those back home, you want to stream Netflix whilst camping, or you have business calls you need to make – there are many reasons why you need the best Turkish sim card when visiting the country.

But what are the best Turkish sim cards for tourists and how much will it cost? Is it worth getting a sim card or should you look towards eSIM deals? These are all great questions we’ll be answering in this guide to the best Turkey Sim Cards for tourists.

Our Top Pick

Airalo E-Sim Cards

If you need a SIM card but don’t have a lot of time, then our top pick for tourist SIM cards in Turkey is the e-Sim packages from Airalo .

You can choose from as little as 1GB for 7 days up to 20 GB for 30 days packages .

The prices are the most affordable and the most transparent we have found compared to local companies and it’s quick and easy to connect. You can read our full review of Airalo in Turkey here .

Why Buy a Prepaid Tourist Sim Card in Turkey?

There are many reasons why you should consider buying a sim card, and not just so you can share Instagram stories.

There are many network providers these days that allow you to use your home network abroad. T-Mobile and 3 are two examples of companies that allow their contract users to use data abroad, but there’s always a catch.

Some network providers only allow their users to use 2G abroad. To put that into perspective for you, it will take you 5 minutes to load a webpage. Other network providers only allow you to use 500MB. This can be used up in a few days and is not suitable for more than a weekend in Istanbul .

So if you want to stay connected, or you need calls and texts while you’re away, the solution is to get a tourist sim card in Turkey.

Getting a Turkish sim card means you have access to fast, reliable data since you are connected to the country’s network. Having fast data is extremely helpful for using things like Google Maps, and Google Translate, and looking up information about attractions or how to get from A to B (such as how to get to Ephesus from Istanbul ).

A local sim card also gives you calls and texts, which is extremely useful when you want to book tours and need to keep in contact with the guide or driver.

But most importantly, having a tourist sim card in Turkey means additional safety. Not only so you can call emergency services, but so you can look up directions when you’re getting lost, you can download maps and GPS tools.

Are you reading this from Turkey? Maybe you need a VPN!

If you’re already in Turkey, there is one thing you absolutely NEED: a reliable VPN .

You may find some of your favorite websites and apps are blocked in Turkey , such as popular hotel site booking.com

A VPN allows you to get passed this ruling and enables you to browse these sites without any hassle, and it’s completely legal.

We use Express VPN when we’re in Turkey and we’d recommend it to anyone. It’s affordable, quick, and easy to use.

Things To Consider Before Buying a Turkish Sim Card

Before you go browsing through the airport service counters, you need to know what to look for in a Turkish sim card. Here are some things you need to consider before making a purchase.

What is the registration process?

Usually, the registration process is quite simple. When we bought our Turkish sim card in Istanbul, we only had to present our passport for them to register our details to the sim card.

How do you activate the sim?

If you’re buying your sim card from a shop, the assistant will set it all up for you and you’ll likely be connected before you’ve even left the store. If you’re buying a sim card online or opting for an E-Sim, does the activation process seem simple? Will you have access to the tech support if you cannot figure it out?

What if you need to top up?

You should make sure to ask how to top up your sim card when purchasing it. If you buy your sim card from a store, they will usually tell you where you can top up such as from kiosks, convenience stores, or coming back to one of their stores.

You are usually given a card with your sim card that has these details on it so do not throw this away.

Where to Get Sim Cards in Turkey

The good news is there are many ways you can buy a sim card in Turkey, so you don’t need to worry about finding a place. Here are three main ways to buy a Turkish sim card…

At The Airport

The most obvious place to get a sim card is at the international airports (Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir etc). However, we don’t recommend this. When we landed at Istanbul airport, we compared deals to what we found online and they were three times more expensive at the airport.

We’re not sure why, but we can only put it down to “airport prices.” Either the sales assistant thought we don’t know any better, or they just charge more for being in the airport.

Unless the airport is missing free WiFi or you absolutely need a sim card before you leave the airport, we don’t recommend this option.

📖 Read more: Is Turkey Expensive?

There are many stores across Turkey where you can get tourist sim cards in Turkey. The main providers are:

• Turk Telekom

You will find several shops for each of these providers in all major cities, as well as travel company shops offering sim cards as well.

We recommend you visit the official stores for each provider, such as the Vodafone store, Telecom store, or Turk Telekom stores, as they will have the best deal. You won’t have any issues finding a store no matter which area of Turkey you’re visiting, even in small towns like Fethiye.

However, you should scout around different stores . Turkcell does not share its prices online, and we found we were quoted different prices at different stores. You should be sure to visit a few different stores to scout out prices and get the best deal.

If you’re planning ahead and you have the time to wait for delivery, you can always get an e-sim card online before you visit.

Sometimes you can arrange for the sim to be delivered to your home address, or you can arrange to pick it up when you arrive at the airport. At present, there is no option to do this with the local sim cards in Turkey.

Best Turkish Sim Card Providers for Tourists

Now you know what to look for in a Turkish sim card, here is an overview of each plan available for tourists in Turkey. You can purchase these plans online before you visit, or you can pick them up from any of the network provider stores in Turkey.

Note : due to the fluctuation of the Turkish Lira, Turkcell, and Vodafone have removed their prices from their website and prices vary from store to store. As of August 8th, 2023, we have seen prices anywhere from $25 USD to $28 USD, and you should scout around for the best deal. In the below table, I have included the price in USD so you can check the exchange rate on the day of purchase. We try to update these prices regularly, but cannot always keep up with the moving exchange rates. These prices were given to us by members of staff in the network’s official stores in Turkey in August 2023.

Prepaid Tourist Sim Cards for Turkey

*Scroll left-right to view more

Data Coverage Map

Perhaps the biggest decider on which sim card is best for you is determined by the data coverage. While many Turkish sim cards connect you across the country, there are some patches that coverage cannot reach.

Here is a map of each provider’s data coverage.

Turkcell Data Coverage

As you can see from this data coverage map for Turkcell, the map is washed in red. This means that most of the country is connected to 4G+, even in rural areas. You’ll find no problems finding data coverage wherever you visit, as even Cappadocia has 4G and 4G+.

If you are planning a road trip and will pass through some of these rural areas, this is the best network provider for you in terms of data coverage. There are not many areas that have 5G with Turkcell.

Telekom Data Coverage

As you can see from the map above, Telekom has pretty good data coverage in the cities with most areas seeing 4G+ network service. In the region of Cappadocia, you can see there are 3G, 4G and some spots with 4G+ in most towns. In Istanbul, it is possible to connect to 5G.

There are a lot of rural areas in Turkey that don’t have connectivity according to this data coverage map, but these areas don’t tend to be on the main tourist trail. For tourists, Telekom provides decent data coverage, but if you are visiting Cappadocia you might find some areas a bit spotty.

Vodafone Data Coverage

Vodafone has similar connectivity as Telekom, but with few areas connecting to 5G. If you are sticking to the main tourist areas and not planning a road trip, the data coverage provided by Vodafone in Turkey will suffice.

e-Sim Cards for Turkey

Another option is to get an eSIM card. These are great for people who don’t have the time to find a sim card shop or you’re not visiting for long enough to make the purchase worth it.

eSIMS work by allowing you to buy flexible data packages without the need to buy a sim card. eSIM companies usually connect you to the local network, as they have deals with the providers who operate there.

They are quick and convenient, especially if you are planning to visit multiple countries on your trip.

Here are some eSIM providers we would recommend:

eSim Cards for Turkey

No calls or SMS

1 GB / 7 Days – $4.50

2 GB / 30 Days – $6.50

3 GB / 30 Days – $8.00

5 GB / 30 Days – $12.00

10 GB / 30 Days – $18.00

20 GB / 30 Days – $26.00

OneSimCard (eSIM World)

$0.25 USD per MB

Free to receive texts and calls

$0.45 per minute to call anywhere in the world

$0.59 per text anywhere in the world

Free Whatsapp

Holafly Turkey

Unlimited data / 5 days – $19.00

Unlimited data / 7 days – $27.00

Unlimited data / 10 days – $34.00

Unlimited data / 15 days – $47.00

Unlimited data / 20 days – $54.00

Unlimited data / 30 days – $64.00

Unlimited data / 60 days – $84.00

Unlimited data / 90 days – $99.00

300MB / 3 Days – $2.50

1GB / 15 Days – $6.00

2GB / 10 Days – $11.00

5GB / 30 Days – $29.90

10GB / 30 Days – $55.00

1GB / 3 Days – $4.50

1GB / 8 Days – $5.00

1GB / 15 Days – $5.50

3GB / 8 Days – $12.50

3GB / 15 Days – $13.50

5GB / 15 Days – $20.00

5GB / 24 Days – $21.50

7GB / 15 Days – $24.50

7GB / 24 Days – $25.00

10GB / 24 Days – $31.00

50GB / 90 Days – $100.00

The TRASST e-SIM Card for Turkey

Unlimited / 3 Days – €16.95

Unlimited / 5 Days – €17.95

Unlimited / 7 Days – €19.95

Unlimited / 14 Days – €26.95

Unlimited / 30 Days – €44.95

Unlimited / 90 Days – €89.95

Prepaid Sim Cards vs Pocket WiFi

If you’re just after a sim card for the data, then you might consider getting a pocket WiFi instead. These are small gadgets that allow you to connect to a mobile hotspot from wherever you are.

If you’re on the beach, simply connect to your pocket WiFi and you can share photos, chat with friends, and browse the internet just as you would with data. They also connect you to the whole of Turkey, and not just limit you to a region or city.

You can also connect to more than one device, so if you’re traveling as a family and everyone needs mobile internet, this could be better valued than getting everyone a sim card.

Pocket WiFi’s are usually expensive to buy, but fortunately, you can rent one for your trip and pick them up and drop them off at the airport. The fee is determined by how long you need it for.

Here’s where you can pick up pocket WiFis in Turkey…

Tips for Buying a Turkish Sim Card

Before you run off to buy your sim card, I have a few more words of advice for you.

• Don’t buy the sim card from the airport. The deals we were offered were a lot more expensive than in the city. We’re not sure why, but they were working out to be around 3x the price.
• Scout around for the best deals. Unfortunately, some companies do not advertise their prices and we found that the price varied depending on which shop we visited. Go to a few and compare prices.
• Remember the exchange rate for the Lira changes dramatically. You may find that the price of a sim card changes from week to week, this is because the exchange rate for the Lira is always changing. You should have an idea of prices in USD and then convert it to Lira on the day. In fact, many stores in Turkey are now accepting Euros or British Sterling instead, so if you’re visiting from Europe, be sure to carry some of Euros as well.
• Keep your receipt and the packaging. The little card that the sim card comes in usually has details on how to top up and emergency numbers, as well as your sim card’s pin code, so don’t throw this away.
• Don’t leave the store until you’re up and running. If there’s a problem and you’ve left, you need to go back and get it fixed. This adds more time and effort. It should connect you within minutes, but sometimes it can take up to 15 minutes to an hour. So just wait around until you’re good to go.
• Don’t remove your sim card unless you’re finished with it. The sim card is locked with a pin number (found on the card that the sim card comes in), which you need to enter to be able to open your mobile phone. If you forget your pin, you’ll be unable to use your phone if you take the sim card out and put it back in again.

FAQs About Turkey Sim Cards for Tourists

Here’s what people usually ask us about sim cards for tourists in Turkey…

Can tourists get a SIM card in Turkey?

Yes, tourists only need to show their passports to get a sim card anywhere in Turkey.

What is the best SIM card to use in Turkey?

In our opinion, the Telekom 40 GB data plan is the best value deal for tourists. If you want good connectivity, the Turkcell 20 GB plan has the best data across the country.

How much is the SIM card in Turkey?

This is dependent on the provider and the plan. You can find plans for as little as $2.50 USD, to as much as $40 USD. The most popular options are around $25 USD.

Can I use WhatsApp in Turkey?

Yes, you can use Whatsapp in Turkey.

The Verdict: Best Sim Card in Turkey for Tourists

As you can see there are a lot of choices to choose from when picking the best Turkish sim card for tourists. When we visited, we chose a Turkcell sim card for tourists because we planned to stay longer than a month and were traveling to more rural areas.

We were quite happy with Turkcell and found we always had connectivity, even when hiking in Cappadocia. We also found it easy to top up by visiting the store and asking for assistance. Their staff spoke English and were very helpful.

At the time, we believed Turkcell to be the best value for money. You get decent network coverage and 40GB lasts a long time, plus the price makes it a pretty good deal for those who need a lot of data. You can stream movies on long-distance buses for that amount.

However, we have started using the Airalo E-Sim Card because they are more transparent with their prices, and they also connect to the Vodafone Turkey AND Turk Telekom networks. If you only need data and no calls, this is the cheapest and most convenient option.

However, if your phone doesn’t support E-Sim Cards, then Telekom is the cheapest option, just be sure to shop around for the best price.

So in short, for the best data coverage, go for Turkcell, for the best-priced data plan, go for Telekom.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

32 thoughts on “Best Turkey Sim Card For Tourists in 2024”

Hiya Sean & Louisa,

This is an awesome explanation. ‘Short’, straightforward and easy to understand. My family and I will be visiting Antalya and Istanbul in the summer (I know, 🥵 😅). And this has given us enough infos in term of connectivity (our flight lands 10:00pm). Keep on writing, I enjoy your writing. Best, Yuni

Hi, thank you for the in-depth guide on data/sim in Turkey. For the E-sim, I can’t seem to find the same deal of 20gb+200mins at 13USD on the onesimcard website? Can you advise how to get this done? Thank you

Hi Sel, I think you are referring to the OneSim, eSim card which sadly doesn’t have that deal anymore. The best deal for eSIMs (I think) is the Airlo eSim, which gives you 10gb of data for 30 days, for $18.00 USD. You can see the Airlo deals here .

hello, the prepaid sim card prices you posted, are they the prices at the airport or the normal price? thank you

From our experience, no the prepaid sim prices at the airport were a lot higher. I can’t remember exactly the price now because it was a few months since I last visited Turkey, but it was definitely cheaper to buy a sim card in the city.

Arrived at Antalya Airport yesterday (04/03/2023) sims cards were on sale for over 1100tl (€55), total rip off! The hotel I’m staying at was offering them for €35, as we arrived after 9pm local time most of the shops were closed so will head into town and see what the prices are, surely will be cheaper. I will update this side with my findings.

Hi Habs, thanks for letting us know about the prices you saw! It’s a shame that it’s so much more expensive at Antalya airport as well. I hope you are able to find a better deal by going into the shops today. We found the shops were the cheapest option in Istanbul.

Hello. We are planning to arrive at the Istanbul airport on May 1 and will need GPS from there as we will be driving around Turkey for 18 days as far East as Cappadocia. How do we avoid buying the Turkcell or Telekom SIM at the airport? We live in the US. Thank you.

It will probably be better for you to get an e-Sim card if that’s the case. You can find great deals on Airlo.

If you go to app store and get Maps.me (Green square with suit case in it) you can then through WIFI search the world or in your case Turkey and as you home in it will prompt to download the map. Once you have done this you dont need a phone signal just use like Google maps. Just second check the route because sometimes it tries to be too clever and take short cuts that no longer there. Also make sure you download all the maps there may be more than 1for Turkey. Load now and practice locally to experience it; you can drop pins find walking trails etc, etc at no cost.

Hi Mark, thank you for the advice you shared. MapsMe is a great app and is really helpful for navigating around Turkey, especially if you want to do some hiking.

I went to Turkcell in the Mall of Istanbul today and asked for the Tourist Welcome Pack. The guy who helped me said the pack would cost me 800 TRL in stead of the advertised 165 TRL. Total rip off!!! Do they really think tourists are stupid?????

Hi Adriaan, I’m sorry to hear this happened to you. There are unfortunately some shops that try to take advantage of tourists, though we have not been to the shop you mentioned. I hope you were able to find a better deal at another store.

Today at Izmir city centre I went to some Turkcell and Vodafone shops and they only had one option for tourists with 20GB and it cost around 600 TRL. I went to a few different shops, all similar prices. And they didn’t have any official flyer or poster with the values, you just need to trust what the guy tells you. A bit sketchy, I find! No official info at the store. I was wondering where can I find these deals of 169 TRL?

Hi Marina, unfortunately, Turkcell and Vodafone have stopped advertising their prices online and we are always hearing of people being quoted different amounts from different shops. If you are sure you want to use their sim package, the only way to find the best deal is to go to different stores and compare prices. It’s not convenient and can be very frustrating for the consumer. At present, only Telekom are advertising their prices online and it’s much cheaper than 600 TL. Their coverage is not as good but it should be good enough if you just visit the tourist places: https://www.turktelekom.com.tr/tt-en/Pages/prepaid-tourist-sim-turkey.aspx

Thank you for your reply. I see the advertised price on the Turk Telekom website as 85 TL for the 25GB package. But today I went to the Turk Telekom shop in Izmir centre and they told me the price is 558 TL. I still can’t understand what’s happening… are all the shops trying to rip me off, or have the sim card prices gone up insanely in the last few months? Are the shops even allowed to sell at a different price than the one advertised online?

Hi Marina, I don’t see the package you mentioned on the Turkcell website, perhaps you were looking at the prepaid sim rather than the Tourist Sim Card. A prepaid sim is for locals and cannot be bought by tourists. Sometime in early 2023, Turkcell and Vodafone removed their prices from their website for this because the Lira is always fluctuating. The exchange rate in March 2023 is at an all-time low which is suspected to be due to the earthquakes . I believe the prices you are seeing are a result of the exchange rate dropping. As of this time, it seems the most affordable way to get data in Turkey as a tourist is to choose an eSim.

What about BIM sim card. Prepaid

We didn’t include BIM as we have not used BIMcell or have any experience with them. I see that you can get them from the BIM supermarkets, which is handy.

Hello, if I take off the sim cart and leave turkey when I come back to Turkey could I use it again?

Usually with these tourist sim cards, they are registered for a period of time only. Once that period is over, you need to purchase another one. If you had a 30 day sim card, left Turkey, and came back within the 30 days, then it should work fine. If you leave for a longer period of time, then you would need to get another tourist sim when you return back to Turkey.

Thanks very much guys! Extremely helpful Nick

Thanks for this, very clear and just what I needed.

I see Turk Telekom prices have gone up on their website (hardly surprising, given Turkish inflation and the exchange rate) but at least they are still quoting them and they look good value.

Is there any additional cost on top of this to get the physical prepaid SIM that you then activate the Prepaid Tourist Plan on?

Hi Peter, thanks for reaching out. There are no additional costs on top of the prepaid tourist plan. The fee includes the data package and the sim card combined.

Hi guys, great article and very helpful indeed. I had normally used roaming on my phone on previous visits. Since the UK left the EU mobile providers have cheekily removed the roaming to Turkey and charging a lot now which won’t be feasible for longer visits. With a view of getting a tourist sim I just sent a message to Vodafone Turkey as the price was not listed on their website. It is just wrong to advertise a package without the price clearly. They came back with a quote of 562 TL for a 20GB plan for 28 days. Whereas the T&Cs link states a different price. Very misleading and deceptive. Anyways looking at more options. Will share if I find something better. At this point Turk Telekom and Bimcell are looking better if only they honour the advertised prices.

Update – Turk Telekom customer services quoted 473 TL for a blank SIM card and 190 for 50GB data for 28 days. 663 TL Total. This again is extremely misleading as no mention of the extortionate charge for a blank SIM card on Turk Telekom website. They only advertise 110 TL for 20GB and 190 TL for 50GB plans.

Hi Rick, thanks for the update. This is surprising to hear as we used Telekom sim cards and were not charged a Sim Card price. It seems that times have changed.

Looks that way. I’m off to Kusadasi in a couple of weeks. Will update you with latest my findings 🙂

Thank you for your clear and informative article. Regarding esim card Airalo, I’m traveling with a family of 5. Some are not very good in technology or don’t have credit card. How can I help them to buy the e-card? A bit silly question but I wonder can I buy multiple ones and then transfer to their phone or they need to buy it with their phone?

Hi Mer, Airalo have some great tutorials on their Youtube Channel that show you how to activate the plans and set it up. You can view the Youtube Channel here.

Hi guys, check out esim-turkey.com, they have unlimited data volume for any budget, like 16,95€ for three days to 89,95€ for 90 days. I happened to come across the link for them.

Hi Star, thank you for passing this on. The deals on this site look to be the same as the TRASST e-sim deals, however I don’t know that this site you suggest is reputable as it doesn’t specify the company. We would recommend booking through Trasst instead, as this is a reputable company and has the same prices on their official website.

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• Jun 2, 2023
• 14 min read

How to Buy the Best Turkey SIM Card for Tourists in 2023

Updated: Jun 8, 2023

Are you planning your ultimate Turkey itinerary and wondering how to stay connected during your trip? Look no further than buying a Turkish SIM card from Türk Telekom! As a tourist, purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Turkey for your mobile phone is the most convenient way to stay in touch with friends and family back home, navigate new cities, and access the internet on-the-go with affordable data plans. Phone Travel Wiz recommends getting a Türk Telekom SIM card for seamless connectivity throughout your travels.

Luckily for travelers, tourist SIM cards from Türk Telekom, including eSIM options, are readily available at Istanbul airport and shops across Turkey. All you need is your passport and some Turkish Lira to purchase one of their mobile internet ana paketler. Plus, Türk Telekom offers welcome packs with added benefits like free data or international calling minutes.

But why buy a prepaid tourist SIM card in Turkey? For starters, it's much cheaper than using roaming services from your home country. Not only that, but having a local number from Turkish GSM operators like Türk Telekom means you can easily communicate with locals and businesses in Turkey without any language barriers. Plus, you can pay for the SIM card and top-ups in Turkish Lira, the local currency, making it convenient for you. Choosing the right mobile operator can make all the difference during your stay in Turkey.

So how do you go about buying a Turkish SIM card as a tourist? Where can you find them? What should you expect when making your purchase? In this complete guide by Phone Travel Wiz, we'll answer all these questions and more. By the end of this post, you'll be ready to stay connected throughout your entire trip to Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum or anywhere else in beautiful Turkey. You can find Turkish SIM cards from Türk Telekom, which offers various data plans, including eSIM options.

Benefits of Having a Turkish SIM Card and Cost of Virtual SIMs

Cheaper rates for local calls and data usage.

When traveling to Turkey, it is important to have a reliable mobile network provider like Türk Telekom to stay connected with family and friends, especially when visiting Istanbul. One of the most significant benefits of having a Turkish SIM card from one of the many GSM operators is that it offers cheaper rates for local calls and data usage compared to international roaming charges. Additionally, some providers offer the option of using an eSIM for added convenience.

International roaming charges can be incredibly expensive, especially if you are using your phone often or staying in Turkey for an extended period. By purchasing a Turkish SIM card from one of the country's top GSM operators like Türk Telekom, you can avoid these high costs and enjoy more affordable rates with their various data plans. Turkish mobile internet providers offer competitive rates and packages, making it easy to stay connected while saving money.

Understanding the Cost of Virtual SIMs

If you're not interested in purchasing a physical SIM card, virtual SIMs may seem like an attractive option due to their lower upfront costs. However, it's essential to understand that they can be more expensive in the long run due to higher data charges from mobile internet providers. Additionally, if you frequently engage in phone travel, it's important to note that not all countries support eSIM technology for 4G connectivity.

Virtual SIMs, also known as eSIM, work by allowing users to download an app that provides them with a local number and data plan without needing an actual physical SIM card. This technology is particularly useful for phone travel, as it eliminates the need to switch out SIM cards when traveling abroad. Additionally, it can be a convenient option for those who prefer not to be tied to traditional mobile internet providers. However, it's important to note that while eSIM technology provides 4G connectivity, it can come at a higher cost than traditional physical cards.

When considering whether or not to purchase a virtual SIM over a physical one, make sure you factor in all potential costs including data plans and mobile internet prices, especially if you frequently travel with your phone.

Disadvantages of Turkish SIM Cards

While there are many benefits to having a Turkish SIM card, including options from Vodafone Turkey and Türk Telekom, there are also some disadvantages that should be considered before making your purchase for phone travel. For example, they require valid ID or passport for registration, and some may not offer the convenience of an eSIM.

This requirement may be inconvenient for some travelers who prefer not to carry their passport around with them while exploring Istanbul and using Turkish SIM cards such as Turkcell and Türk Telekom. However, keep in mind that this regulation exists as part of Turkey's security measures and is intended to protect both locals and visitors alike.

Another potential downside is that the cost of Turkish SIM cards varies depending on the provider, such as Türk Telekom and Vodafone Turkey, and the amount of data and talk time included in the plan. Before purchasing a card in Istanbul, make sure you understand what you need in terms of data and talk time to ensure that you're getting the best value for your money. Additionally, consider using an eSIM for added convenience.

Comparison of Top Prepaid SIM Card Options for Tourists in Turkey

Different prepaid plans available for purchase.

When traveling to Turkey, staying connected with friends and family back home is essential. One of the best ways to do so is by purchasing a prepaid SIM card that offers affordable rates and reliable coverage throughout your trip. There are several prepaid SIM card options available for tourists in Istanbul, each with its own unique features and benefits. Türk Telekom offers a variety of prepaid SIM cards that can be easily activated on your device, including eSIM technology for added convenience.

The first thing to consider when choosing a prepaid SIM card is the type of plan that best suits your needs. Some plans, such as those offered by Vodafone Turkey and Türk Telekom, provide unlimited data, while others offer a set amount of data per day or week. The most popular plans typically include both voice and data services, but some providers may offer separate plans for each. Additionally, if you have a device that supports eSIM technology, you may be able to use an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card for added convenience.

One popular option for tourists visiting Turkey is to purchase local sim cards from providers such as Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom. The Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack, which includes 20GB of data valid for 30 days, is a great choice for those looking for Turkish sim cards. Another option is Vodafone's Tourist Package, which offers 50GB of data valid for one month along with unlimited domestic calls and SMS messages.

Rates and Combo Plans Offered by Top Prepaid SIM Card Providers

When comparing prepaid SIM cards in Turkey, it's important to consider the rates offered by each provider such as Türk Telekom. It's also important to check the data coverage of each provider to ensure you have reliable internet access. Additionally, consider if the provider has an app that allows you to easily manage your account and top up your balance. Lastly, make sure to check the validity period of the plan you choose as some plans may only be valid for a certain number of days. While some providers may offer lower rates on certain plans, others may have higher overall costs due to additional fees or charges.

Turkcell's prepaid SIM card tourist package for Turkey starts at around €35 ($41) depending on exchange rates at the time of purchase. Vodafone also offers a digital SIM card package for tourists in Turkey, which costs around €45 ($53). Meanwhile, Turk Telekom's local SIM card package starts at around €25 ($29) for those who prefer to use a local network. Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change based on current exchange rates.

In addition to standard prepaid plans, Vodafone Turkey and Türk Telekom also offer combo packages that include both voice and data services at a discounted rate. For those traveling to Turkey, a Turkey SIM card or digital SIM card can be purchased to take advantage of these deals. For example, Turkcell offers a "Superbox" package that includes 40GB of data, unlimited domestic calls, and 1,000 SMS messages for €60 ($71).

Pay with Credit Cards or Vouchers to Top Up Credit

When purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Turkey, you can typically pay with a credit card or purchase a voucher to top up your credit. Some providers such as Türk Telekom may also offer the option to top up your credit online or through their mobile app. It's recommended to consider the amount of TRY and GB you'll need for your road trip before purchasing the SIM card.

If you choose to purchase a Türk Telekom voucher, you can usually find them at convenience stores and other retailers throughout Turkey. Simply enter the code on the voucher into your phone to add credit to your account. For faster delivery, you can try purchasing online. The credit from the voucher will be valid for a certain number of days depending on the amount purchased.

It's important to note that some providers, such as Turkcell and Vodafone Turkey, may charge additional fees for topping up your credit using certain methods. If you're using a digital SIM, be sure to check with your provider for any fees associated with topping up. Additionally, keep in mind that topping up in TRY currency may also result in fees from your provider. For example, Turk Telekom charges a fee for topping up your account using a credit card.

Best SIM card providers for tourists in Turkey

Tourist sim cards from turkcell, vodafone turkey, and turk telecom.

Tourists visiting Turkey from the US on a road trip may find it challenging to stay connected with their loved ones or navigate around the country without a local SIM card . Fortunately, there are several GSM operators in Turkey that offer tourist SIM cards with affordable prices and mobile internet packages. With fast delivery, you can get your SIM card in just a few days and stay connected throughout your journey.

Turkcell is one of the largest GSM operators in Turkey and offers a wide range of tourist sim card deals that cater to different budgets and needs. One of their most popular tourist sim cards is called "Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack," which includes 20GB data, 500 minutes talk time within Turkey, and 100 SMS messages. The package costs around 129 Turkish Lira (TL) or approximately $15 USD. If you're planning a road trip in Turkey this Jun, try this sim card which is valid for 30 days.

Another option from Turkcell is their "Turkcell Tourist Pass" package that includes unlimited data for seven days at a cost of 99 TL (around $12 USD). This prepaid sim card package does not include talk time or SMS messages but is perfect for those who need constant internet access during their trip to Turkey. With this digital sim, you can enjoy unlimited GB of data without worrying about running out of data during your stay.

To purchase a Turkcell tourist sim card, you can visit any authorized retailer across the country or buy one at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport upon arrival. If you're on the road, don't worry as we offer delivery within days across the US.

Vodafone Turkey

Vodafone Turkey also offers several options for tourists looking to purchase a local SIM card during their stay in the country. Their most popular package, "Vodafone Holiday," includes 20GB data, 750 minutes talk time within Turkey, and unlimited SMS messages for 30 days. This package is perfect for those hitting the road in June. It costs around 119 TL (approximately $14 USD).

For those who want to try a prepaid SIM card or digital SIM during their stay in Turkey, Vodafone offers an "Internet Package" with 50GB data for 30 days at a cost of 199 TL (around $24 USD) until the end of June.

Tourists from the US and GB can purchase Vodafone Turkey's tourist SIM card at any authorized retailer, including Istanbul's Ataturk Airport upon arrival in June.

Turk Telecom

Turk Telecom is offering a special deal for tourists this jun! Their "Turk Telekom Tourist Welcome Pack" includes 20GB data and unlimited talk time within Turkey for ten days, all for just 99 TL (approximately $12 USD).

Another option from Turk Telecom is their "Turk Telekom Tourist Pass," which includes unlimited data for seven days at a cost of 59 TL (around $7 USD). This prepaid SIM card package, also known as Turkey SIM card, does not include talk time or SMS messages. It is a digital SIM that can be easily activated in Jun.

Tourists from the US can purchase Turk Telecom's tourist SIM card at any authorized retailer, including Istanbul's Ataturk Airport upon arrival.

How to easily get a local SIM card in Turkey: fast and affordable options

Find the nearest official branch or electronic shop.

The easiest and fastest way for US travelers to get a local SIM card in Turkey is by visiting one of the official branches or electronic shops. You can find them all over the country, especially in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. These stores offer a wide range of options for purchasing a SIM card, including internet packages and deals that are tailored to your needs.

When you visit an official store or electronic shop to purchase a digital SIM, you will be asked to provide your passport or ID card for identification purposes. Once you have provided this information, you can choose from various plans that suit your budget and data usage requirements. The staff at these stores are usually friendly and knowledgeable about their digital SIM products, so don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have.

Take advantage of internet packages and deals

One of the advantages of buying a local SIM card from an official store or electronic shop in the US is that they offer internet packages and deals that are designed to make your life easier. For example, some packages include unlimited data for a certain amount of time (e.g., 30 days), while others offer discounts on calls and texts.

To take advantage of these deals in the US, simply ask the staff at the store about their available offers. They will guide you through the process of selecting the best package for your needs based on how much data you need per day/week/month.

Get free delivery from official branches or grocery stores

If going out isn't possible for any reason, then getting a local SIM card with US and GB data delivered straight to your doorstep is another option available in Turkey. Official branches often offer free delivery services within major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir etc., while grocery stores also provide this service when requested.

All you need to do is call an official branch or grocery store near you in the US and place an order for delivery. You will be asked to provide your personal details and delivery address, after which the store will take care of the rest. If you are a traveler, don't forget to get a prepaid SIM card or Turkey SIM card for your mobile phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get data from Turkey? Getting data in Turkey is easy with a local SIM card. You can purchase one from official branches or electronic shops, as discussed above, and then choose from various internet packages that suit your needs.

Where to buy SIM card in the US? You cannot purchase a Turkish SIM card in the US. However, you can buy an international SIM card online that works in Turkey and other countries.

What about your existing provider? If you have an existing provider that offers international roaming services, you can use their services while traveling to Turkey. However, this may result in high charges for calls and data usage. Alternatively, you can consider purchasing a prepaid SIM card for more affordable rates.

How does Holafly work? Holafly is an online service that provides international travelers with prepaid SIM cards for various countries, including Turkey. All you need to do is select a plan on their website and order it online. The SIM card will be delivered to your doorstep before you travel.

Tips for Using Your SIM Card in the City

Look for local sim cards in phone shops around the city center.

When traveling to Turkey from the US, it's always a good idea to have a local SIM card to avoid expensive roaming charges. You can find local SIM cards at phone shops around the city center. These shops offer a variety of options from different mobile operators, so make sure to do some research before purchasing one.

One popular option for prepaid sim card is Turkcell, which has the widest coverage and fastest internet speeds in Turkey. Another option for prepaid sim card is Vodafone, which offers affordable data packages and international calling options. Lastly, there's Türk Telekom, which has competitive pricing and excellent customer service for prepaid sim card users.

Once you've chosen your preferred mobile operator, activating your SIM card is easy. The phone shop staff will assist you with the activation process, which usually involves providing them with your passport or ID card.

Check with Your Mobile Provider if They Have International SIM Card Options

If you're not comfortable buying a local SIM card or don't plan on staying in Turkey for an extended period of time, check with your mobile provider if they have international SIM card options. This way, you can use your existing phone number and avoid the hassle of switching out SIM cards.

Most major mobile providers offer international roaming plans that allow you to use your phone abroad without incurring hefty fees. However, these plans can be quite expensive and may not provide enough data or call minutes for your needs. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider getting a prepaid sim card or a Turkey sim card for your travels.

Consider Getting a Digital SIM Card for Easy Activation and Management

If you prefer convenience over cost savings in the US, consider getting a digital SIM card instead of a physical one. A digital SIM (eSIM) allows you to activate and manage your mobile plan directly from your phone without having to visit a phone shop.

Turkish mobile operators such as Turkcell and Vodafone offer eSIM options that are compatible with most modern smartphones. To activate an eSIM, simply scan the QR code provided by your mobile operator and follow the on-screen instructions.

Research Data Plans and Mobile Internet Options before Purchasing a SIM Card

Before purchasing a local or international SIM card, it's important to research data plans and mobile internet options. This will ensure that you get the best value for your money and avoid any unexpected charges.

Most Turkish mobile operators offer prepaid and postpaid data packages that vary in price and data allowance. Some even offer unlimited data plans, which can be useful if you plan on using your phone for streaming or downloading large files.

In addition to mobile data, some operators also offer prepaid sim cards and pocket wifi devices that allow you to connect multiple devices to the internet at once. This can be a great option if you're traveling with family or friends.

Use Pocket Wifi as an Alternative to Buying a Local SIM Card

If you don't want to buy a local SIM card or prefer not to use your existing phone number, consider using pocket wifi as an alternative. Pocket wifi devices are small portable routers that provide wireless internet access wherever you go.

You can rent pocket wifi devices or purchase prepaid sim cards from various providers at Istanbul Airport or online before your trip. Prices vary depending on the duration of your rental and data allowance.

Using pocket wifi has several advantages over buying a local SIM card. Firstly, it allows you to connect multiple devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones at once. Secondly, it eliminates the need for swapping out SIM cards or activating new ones. Lastly, it provides more flexibility in terms of choosing different mobile operators without having to switch out physical SIM cards.

Frequently asked questions about SIM cards in Turkey

If you're planning a trip to Turkey, getting a local SIM card is essential for staying connected and saving money on roaming charges. Here are some frequently asked questions about SIM cards in Turkey that can help you make an informed decision:

What are the benefits of having a Turkish SIM card and how much do virtual SIMs cost?

Having a Turkish SIM card allows you to stay connected with locals and other travelers, access the internet, make calls and send texts at local rates. Virtual SIMs can be purchased online before arriving in Turkey, which can save time and money compared to buying a physical SIM card upon arrival.

Which prepaid SIM card options are best for tourists in Turkey?

There are several prepaid options available for tourists in Turkey from major providers such as Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom. Each provider offers different packages with varying amounts of data, talk time, and text messages. It's important to compare prices and features to find the option that suits your needs best.

Who are the best SIM card providers for tourists in Turkey?

Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom are considered some of the best providers for prepaid sim card users due to their extensive coverage across the country and affordable pricing.

How can I easily get a local SIM card in Turkey?

Getting a local SIM card in Turkey is easy as there are many kiosks at airports or shops throughout cities where they can be purchased. You'll need your passport to register your new number, but the process is typically fast and affordable.

What tips should I know when using my Turkish SIM card in the city?

When using your Turkish SIM card in the city, it's important to keep an eye on your data usage as some plans may have limited data allowances. Make sure to turn off data roaming to avoid unexpected charges. Lastly, it's always a good idea to have your phone charged and ready for use in case of emergencies.

In conclusion, purchasing a Turkish SIM card is a smart decision for any traveler visiting Turkey. By understanding the benefits of having a local SIM card, comparing prepaid options, and knowing which providers are best suited for tourists, you can make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget. Don't forget to follow our tips for using your SIM card in the city to stay connected and avoid any unwanted charges.

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Buying a Prepaid Sim Card for Turkey in 2024

Are you planning your trip and excited to travel to Turkey soon? Don't waste money on high roaming costs or slow overseas data roaming plans. Buying a local prepaid sim card in Turkey or ordering an e-sim card for Turkey is easy. This is a complete guide for finding the best sim card for your trip to Turkey in 2024.

Find out where to buy a local prepaid sim card, a comparison of the Turkey prepaid sim cards, the best 4G/5G network, up to date prices as per March 2024, the best e-sim cards for Turkey, info about international sim cards, my recommendation and even a vlog about my experiences buying a prepaid sim card in Turkey.

When arriving in a new country I immediately look for the best ways to get connected, it is a vital part of my travel planning.

Since I am on a  journey to travel to every country in the world I get to a lot of different countries. On average per year I use about 40 to 50 prepaid sim cards and e-sim cards to stay connected and that is how Traveltomtom became the ultimate specialist in sim cards for tourists.

In general local prepaid sim cards are ideal for those who use a lot of data, but e-sim cards are the easiest way to get connected in 2024 and when it comes to Turkey then e-sim cards are also MUCH CHEAPER than local prepaid sim cards.

Providing travelers with valuable travel tips is a passion and that resulted in writing already more than 200 sim card guides from all over the world. On my travel blog you can find sim card guides from: USA , Europe , Germany , United Kingdom ,  Asia ,  Mexico , Canada ,  Brazil , Colombia , Jordan , South Africa , Dubai , Qatar ,  Thailand , Bangkok ,  Indonesia , Bali , Malaysia ,  Kenya , Egypt , Hong Kong , China and many more.

Are you flying to Istanbul and want to buy a Turkey sim card straight away at the airport then I have the perfect sim card guides for you from both airports: SAW and IST . Traveltomtom also wrote a guide for buying a sim card at Izmir Airport .

The latest addition to the Turkey sim card guide family is Traveltomtom's comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to Turkey in 2024 .

RELATED: Ultimate Turkey Itinerary for 14 days ! Rent a car and explore this beautiful country.

Traveling to Turkey and in need of inspiration? Find here a list of the best places to visit in Turkey in 2024 . What about the Switzerland of Turkey or Maldives-like beaches? Hidden Monasteries and well preserved UNESCO heritage sites? Click on the link to find them all around the country.

Why buying a sim card for Turkey

All hotels and most restaurants and bars in Turkey have pretty good and reliable WiFi, so why getting a sim card for Turkey? A very easy question to answer! It simply makes traveling in Turkey so much easier. Like in general, having a data connection on your phone makes life much more convenient. Think about ordering a taxi from an app, or getting directions from Google Maps, finding nearby restaurants with good reviews or what about emergencies?

Getting a local sim card in Turkey is easy, fast and relatively cheap compared to Western countries. A Turkey sim card guarantees you a much more relaxing trip to Turkey.

Also don't rely on WiFi, because there is no guarantee! If be the signal in your hotel room is weak or the WiFi is so slow it hardly works. On top of that be aware that public WiFi's are UNSECURED networks, using a VPN is therefore recommended.

Not a fan of swapping sim cards and changing phone numbers? Then you should look into getting a portable WiFi device. How they work? Personally I am not a fan, but I will give you my HONEST opinion and tell you everything about it in my article: how to get WiFi on the road !

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends a Turkcell tourist sim card for traveling in Turkey. They have the strongest 4G/5G network and fastest data speed and for $27 USD you get a tourist sim card with 20 GB data and 200 calling minutes.

If you just need a little bit of internet on your phone when traveling to Turkey then look into buying an e-sim card as 1 GB data already starts from $4.5 USD. But it also is a very convenient way to get a lot of data on your phone in just 2 minutes. Because an e-sim card for Turkey with 20 GB data also only costs $26 USD.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for Turkey via either Airalo , SimOptions or Nomad .

you may also like...

More about the best e-sim cards for Turkey below or check out my complete guide with a comparison of the best e-sim cards for Turkey , including everything you need to know before using e-sim cards for traveling to Turkey in 2024.

Traveltomtom also recommends global travel sim cards. Check out my comparison of the best international sim cards in 2024 , we compared and reviewed them one by one and came to the conclusion that some of them are actually great sim card deals for traveling to Turkey.

Make sure your phone is unlocked before buying a prepaid sim card in Turkey, getting an international sim card or an e-sim card. If your phone is locked none of these options to stay connected will work. If you are unsure if your phone is locked or unlocked then contact your mobile provider in your home country before your trip to Turkey.

Best e-sim cards for Turkey

The easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Turkey in 2024 is an e-sim card. No need to visit a sim card store anymore in Turkey. With an e-sim card you are online as soon as the plane lands.

You order an e-sim card for Turkey on the internet, you receive a QR code, scan it, follow the simple steps and within less than 2 minutes you have a Turkey e-sim card installed on your phone.

Upon arrival in Turkey it automatically connects you to an available network and you enjoy data on your phone pretty much when the plane lands.

Make sure your phone is e-sim compatible before ordering an e-sim card for Turkey.

For all your answers on FAQ's about Turkey e-sim cards check out Traveltomtom's complete guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for traveling to Turkey in 2024 .

Airalo is a reliable e-sim provider and Traveltomtom has used Airalo in more than 50 countries around the world without ever facing an issue. Check out the Airalo e-sim cards plans for Turkey in 2024:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $6.5 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $8 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $12 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $18 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $26 USD

Click here for more info or to  order a Turkey e-sim card directly via Airalo .

Airalo always has ongoing promotions, so definitely worth checkin them out.

The above Merhaba e-sim cards are data-only and are only valid in Turkey. They operate on the 4G/LTE network of Turk Telekom. Incoming and outgoing phone calls and sms are not supported.

Traveltomtom also uses SimOptions regularly for my travels abroad. They have e-sim cards from pretty much every country in the world. However, their Turkey e-sim plans are more expensive than Airalo:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $7.90 USD
• 4 GB data for 10 days = $17.90 USD
• 5 GB data for 10 days = $17.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $29.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $49.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order a SimOptions e-sim card for traveling to Turkey .

A third trusted and reviewed e-sim provider is Nomad and they often have very competitive e-sim card plans. The best thing about the Nomad e-sim cards for Turkey is that they are 5G ready as of 2024.

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $6 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $15 USD

Click here for more info or to order an e-sim card for Turkey via Nomad .

Make sure your phone is e-sim card compatible before getting an e-sim card for Turkey. With an e-sim card you keep your phone number from home as it operates on your phone alongside your sim card from your home country.

This is just a very quick summary of Turkey e-sim cards. Curious to know more, find a complete comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to Turkey in 2024  in my guide, including everything you need to know about using an e-sim card in Turkey.

Where to buy a tourist sim card for Turkey

There are three mobile internet providers in Turkey and when you look at the prices for data plans in Turkey they are not as cheap as you may expect. In a country where you can have a sandwich, a tea and a bottle of water for less than $3 USD, you would expect competitive prices for perpaid sim cards.

Unfortunately buying a Turkey sim card for tourists is relatively expensive compared it to its neighboring countries: Greece , Bulgaria , Georgia . This is because foreigners can only buy a tourist sim card. If you want a prepaid sim card in Turkey with a foreign passport as a non-resident you can only buy a tourist sim card.

Tourist sim cards have different prices and packages as prepaid sim cards for locals.

International Airports on arrival

The most convenient place to buy a Turkey prepaid sim card is of course on arrival at any of the international airports. Most people will start their trip to Turkey in either IST Airport or SAW Airport in Istanbul. For both airports I wrote a specific guide for buying a Turkey prepaid sim card on arrival:

• Buying a sim card at Istanbul Airport IST in 2024
• Buying a sim card at Istanbul Airport SAW in 2024
• Buying a sim card at Izmir Airport in 2024

Luckily all the other international airports like Antalya, Ankara, Bodrum, Trabzon and Kayseri all have sim card stores from the main mobile internet providers in the arrival hall. So buying a tourist sim card in Turkey is easy, it is just really expensive.

Expect tourist prices for tourist sim cards on arrival at the international airports in Turkey. The cheaper sim card deals for Turkey you find in the city center in official phone stores of the mobile internet providers. Or even better... on the internet.

Phone stores in city center

If you want the best prepaid sim card deals and data plans then you have to buy your Turkey sim card away from the airport. Go where the locals go and get local prices. However, even here tourists pay a higher price for their prepaid sim card. There are plenty official retail stores around the city from one of the mobile internet operators. Locate them simply though Google Maps. Walk in with your passport and you can buy a sim card for tourists without a problem.

Traveltomtom recommends an official retail store of one of the mobile internet providers over a random phone store. At these stores they also sell prepaid sim cards for Turkey but at different prices. Always put your new registered sim card in your phone and wait till everything is working before you walk out of the store.

As I already showed you above there are multiple ways to stay connected when traveling to Turkey and one of them is ordering a sim card for Turkey on the internet.

If you buy an international sim card for Turkey  a physical prepaid sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip and if you order an e-sim card for Turkey you arrange everything online within just a couple minutes.

If you travel to Turkey on a budget then sightseeing in Istanbul can be a lot cheaper than buying a sim cards for tourists. Check here for a free walking tour of Fener Balat and marvel at this hip up and coming neighborhood with its colorful houses.

Done with the standard things to do in Istanbul? Check this list of hidden gems in Istanbul and go off the beaten path. Other great recommendations and day trip in and around Istanbul are: Turkey's biggest mosque , Uskudar , Kadikoy , all in the Asian part of the city.

Mobile internet providers in Turkey

There are three different mobile internet providers in Turkey: Vodafone, Turkcell and Turk Telekom. They have stores all over Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir , Bodrum, Bursa , Antalya, Trabzon, Kayseri and all the other popular tourist destinations in Turkey. You can also find them on most international and domestic airports. Finding a shop to buy a Turkey prepaid sim card is not that hard.

I recommend tourists to visit one of the official internet provider stores of either Vodafone, Turk Telekom or Turkcell. These are the ones you can trust, they should have the best deals and they activate your new Turkey sim card on the spot for you. Others phone shops are just resellers, if something goes wrong they send you to the official stores.

Registration process

As a tourist or a non-resident you can only buy a visitor line sim card for tourists in Turkey. Meaning your sim card will be registered on your passport number and name. So always bring your passport when buying a sim card in Turkey. In the store they will take a copy of your passport.

As of 2024 a tourist can use a prepaid sim card and their imported mobile phone for a maximum of 3 months before it will be blocked. After 90 days you will have to pay an import tax based on the value of your phone.

If this is somehow inconvenient to you or you are looking for a way around it then buy an international sim card for Turkey  or even easier: order an e-sim card for Turkey .

Prices Turkey sim cards in 2024

All the below information and prices are updated as per March 2024. The Turkish Lira fluctuates a lot and therefore most phone stores display their Turkey tourist sim cards in USD. As of March 2024: $1 USD = 32 TL and 100 TL = $3.12 USD.

Vodafone Turkey prepaid sim card for tourists

On my last visit in Turkey in March 2024 I checked out several Vodafone Turkey stores in Istanbul and in Izmir and all of them sell the exact same prepaid sim card for tourists:

• 20 GB data + 750 minutes + 1,000 sms =  900 TL - $30 USD

This Vodafone prepaid sim card is valid for 28 days and only for use in Turkey, not in the rest of the EU!

This Vodafone Turkey tourist sim card is also advertised on the  Vodafone Turkey  and it literally says: prices may vary from store to store. Yes, that is very true. Some official Vodafone stores in Istanbul tried charging me $45 USD for the same tourist sim card.

Big plus and completely new is that Vodafone Turkey sells the same prepaid sim card plan as above in some stores also as an e-sim card. However, the same plan as an e-sim card costs 850 TL which is $28 USD.

The Turkey e-sim card plans you can buy on the internet are much cheaper!

Turk Telekom prepaid sim card

They claim to be cheapest prepaid sim card in Turkey and well according to the above prices that would be true. On the Turk Telekom website you can find complete different prices, but the above price is the real one. Taken in a Turk Telekom store in March 2024 and double checked in many other stores in Istanbul, as well as in Izmir on my recent trip to Turkey.

• 40 GB data + 750 minutes + 750 sms for 28 days = 650 TL - $22 USD

A Turk Telekom prepaid sim card for tourists is only valid in Turkey. Turk Telekom does NOT offer e-sim cards for tourists. For more info check the Turk Telekom  website.

Turkcell prepaid sim card

Don't be fooled by the above price of 169 TL for the following prepaid sim card plan for tourists:

• 20 GB data + 200 minutes + Free WhatsApp valid for 1 month = 650 TL - $22 USD

Turkcell adapted their prices for 2024 and took off their prices from their website because of the inflation of the Turkish Lira, just like Vodafone. They still sell the exact same tourist sim card but they raised the price to 650 TL which is $22 USD.

Turkcell does NOT offer e-sim cards for tourists in their stores in Turkey. For more info about this Turkey prepaid sim card check out the Turkcell website .

Check how much Turkcell credit you have left? Dial *123#

Best 4G/5G network in Turkey in 2024

Turkey is a huge country and all those millions of Turkish people love mobile internet. For them it is much cheaper to stay connected than for tourists. Therefore the Turkey tourist sim card business is booming and prices are exceptional high.

But apart from the prices for tourist sim cards let's also dive into the network coverage. Traveltomtom compared the 4G/5G mobile data network coverage maps for Turkey of Vodafone, Turkcell and Turk Telekom to find out which provider has the best mobile data network in Turkey in 2024.

Is there 5G in Turkey?

No, there is still no 5G in Turkey as of March 2024. Despite millions of mobile internet users there is only 5G in central areas in Istanbul. The first 5G towers are recently constructed in Istanbul city center and at the IST Airport, but that is about it.

If you go off the beaten path in Turkey, 4G/LTE coverage can become rare as well. Turkey is a huge country. However, as you can see from the below Turkey 4G/5G mobile internet coverage maps most of the  best places to visit in Turkey are covered with a 4G/LTE signal.

Turk Telekom 4G/5G network coverage map

Vodafone 4G/5G network coverage map

Turkcell 4G/5G network coverage map

Although the above mobile data network coverage maps are updated for 2024 they are not 100% accurate. However, they are a great reference to compare the 4G/5G networks of the mobile internet providers in Turkey in 2024.

Based on the 4G/5G network coverage maps for 2024 Turkcell has the best 4G/5G mobile data network in Turkey in 2024. If you travel to the more remote areas in Turkey then Turkcell is the best Turkey sim card for you. You can also expect the fastest data speed in Turkey from Turkcell.

Turk Telecom and Vodafone have a slightly weaker network, but if you only stay in one of the famous Turkey tourist destinations then Turk Telecom and Vodafone will be just as good.

Looking for amazing hotels in Istanbul? Check out my best hotels in Besiktas on the Bosporus blog.

Mobile internet data speed in Turkey

With a respective 63th place on the world data speed ranking in 2023, on average one can expect a download speed of 69 Mbps according to Speed Test Pro, published on Wikipedia.

Best prepaid sim card for Turkey in 2024

My conclusion after my comparison of the Turkey prepaid sim cards for tourists is that prices fluctuate a lot these days and that is all due to the massive inflation of the Turkish Lira. The prepaid sim card plans you find online on the websites of the mobile internet operators are completely outdated and some won't even show you prices anymore.

For me it was a shocking surprise when I got to the official retail stores in Istanbul and Izmir and saw the prices for tourist sim cards. When I asked the staff about the tourist sim card plans that are advertised online they said they were not able to offer them anymore for the price shown. Basically I felt like they made their own prices and they indeed differ per sim card store.

It seems like Turkey sim card prices for tourists are going up with the years and at the same time the prices for Turkey e-sim cards are going down a lot. If you only need a little bit of internet to navigate, check email and use WhatApp then Traveltomtom definitely recommends an e-sim card over a local prepaid sim card.

For just $4.5 USD you already get 1 GB data for traveling in Turkey. Turkey tourist prepaid sim cards start from $25 USD!

Even if you are a heavy data user then an e-sim card for Turkey is cheaper than a local prepaid tourist sim card. An e-sim card for Turkey with 20 GB data costs $26 USD. Keep in mind that e-sim cards for Turkey are data-only and phone calls are NOT supported.

Find out everything you need to know about Turkey e-sim cards in 2024 , including a comparison of the best e-sim cards for Turkey, all specifications, all FAQ's and more.

And that is also the only reason that I can come up with for you to buy a sim card in Turkey on arrival over ordering a sim card for Turkey on the internet. Local prepaid sim cards come with unlimited calling and texting in Turkey, which in some situation can be handy.

Based on the Turkey tourist sim card plans and the 4G/5G network coverage Traveltomtom ranks Turkcell is the best prepaid sim card for Turkey in 2024.

Remember that you can also buy a sim card for traveling in Turkey at the airports of Izmir, Antalya and of course Istanbul, but these tourist sim cards are sold for tourists prices. E-sim cards for Turkey are much cheaper. However, here is a guide for buying a sim card at Istanbul IST Airport  or at  Istanbul SAW Airport .

Interested in watching a vlog what it is like to buy a prepaid sim card for tourists in Turkey then check out Traveltomtom's YouTube video above.

Order a prepaid sim card for Turkey online

If your phone is not e-sim compatible but you would like to order a sim card for traveling to Turkey online before your trip then check out the following.

Arrive prepared in Turkey with an international prepaid sim card. You order them online and a physical prepaid sim card will be delivered to your home address. You put this sim card in your phone and it automatically connects to an available network upon arrival in Turkey, basically when the plane lands you are instantly online.

SimOptions is the only sim card provider that sells physical prepaid sim cards for Turkey:

• 10 GB data for 14 days = $49.90 USD

Click here to directly order an international sim card for Turkey via SimOptions .

Here also a last reminder that if your phone is e-sim card compatible you can also order an e-sim card for Turkey and get connected within just a couple minutes and keep your own number from home.

You arrange everything online and there is no need for swapping a physical sim card anymore. Recommended e-sim card providers for Turkey are:  SimOptions ,  Airalo ,  Nomad .

For a complete guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for Turkey on the internet check out Traveltomtom's comparison of the best e-sim cards for Turkey in 2024 .

RELATED: Ultimate Turkey Itinerary for 14 days , including all the best places to visit! Check it out and don't miss any of these Turkey top sights.

What to do in Istanbul? There is so much more than visiting the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Taksim. Click on the photos below to read see where to find the best viewpoint in Istanbul: Buyuk Valide Han  will blow your mind! Or read about the  best day trips from Istanbul and see what it looks like to climb the minaret of the amazing Edirne Mosque and don't forget to explore the  colored houses in Istanbul .  

Looking for a place to stay in Istanbul? I have now visited Istanbul about 15 times and my favorite areas are: Galata Tower/Beyoglu or Besiktas . Check here for a complete guide about where to stay in Istanbul .

If you have any further question please do not hesitate to leave me a comment below or check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom if you are in need of some serious travel inspiration or follow up on my road to visit every country in the world . As of March 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, so many more to go still.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Enjoy your trip to Turkey!

Some links in this article about the best prepaid sim cards for Turkey are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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Turkey SIM Card for Tourists

Traveling to Turkey soon? Read our ultimate Guide to buying a SIM card for Tourists in Turkey below and get the best option at the lowest price!

If you are planning a trip to Istanbul or another city in Turkey, and want to stay connected, then you should consider buying a prepaid SIM card for Turkey.

On this page, we will tell you all you need to know about SIM cards for Tourists in Turkey. You will find helpful information about operators and which SIM card or eSIM card to buy online or on site, as well as their cost . 

Let’s start! 

Do I really need a Turkey SIM Card for Istanbul?

If your visit to Istanbul is longer than 4–5 days , buying a local SIM card is definitely the best option for you to stay in touch with family and friends while having good phone coverage and access to data.  

But even  if your stay is shorter , it might be a wise idea to opt for a prepaid SIM card instead of depending on free Wi-Fi or renting a pocket Wi-Fi router. 

Internet is charged a lot more in Turkey if you have a foreign SIM card, which does not include Turkey in their internet package.

So we recommend you to get a local SIM card either way. But how to get it easily, without waiting in line, and at the best price?

Book your SIM Card online before your trip to Turkey

What are your options of booking a SIM card or an internet device online to use it in Turkey during your trip?

For travelers who only need mobile internet and no phone calls or SMS for their Istanbul vacation, we have the perfect solution: the e-SIM card for Turkey. It is one of the most economical and practical way of getting internet in Istanbul as a foreigner.

See below our 2 top e-SIM recommendations for Istanbul, as well as another alternative, the Pocket Wi-Fi:

1. The Holafly Prepaid e-SIM Card for Istanbul

Another recommendation is Holafly's easy-to-use prepaid e-SIM card .

Holafly offers a  digital e-SIM card with unlimited mobile data service  with maximum speed coverage (4GLTE). 

This way you don’t have to worry about roaming costs when traveling and enjoy unlimited internet as if you were at home.  

Let's see the prices and conditions of these cards:

How does Holafly work?

• Choose the desired number of days  you want and   purchase the Holafly prepaid e-SIM card here .  You will immediately receive a QR code containing the e-SIM Card by email.
• Scan the QR code one day before your departure.
• Turn off your local provider’s cellular data.
• Set your phone's options so that your mobile phone uses Holafly's internet.
• Activate your QR code after you arrive in Turkey and use your Holafly SIM card during your stay.   

Compatibly:  Before purchasing the   Holafly SIM card, make sure that your mobile phone is compatible with the Holafly service. It is available for the following cell phones: iPhone SE, XS et XS Max, XR, 11, 11 Pro et 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini, 13,13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini / Google Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a, / Samsung S22, S20, Galaxy Z Flip, Note 20 Ultra, Fold LTE, / Motorola Razr 2019

The easy eSIM for Turkey by Holafly ( recommended ) :

Here are the prices and conditions for the eSIM by Holafly. The ones in red are the most popular ones picked by travelers.

• 1 Day Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 6€)
• 2 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 9 €)
• 3 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 12 € )
• 4 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 15 € )
• 5 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 19 € )
• 6 Days  Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 23 € )
• 7 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 2 7€ )
• 8 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 2 9€ )

There are options to book a higher number of days. For further rates and information on the various offers and 5% discount , click on this link:

2. Rent a Pocket Wifi in Istanbul

You can easily  rent a Pocket Wifi Devise for the time you are in Istanbul  and access internet through it anytime. It is a device that connects you to internet without limitation and through several device (phone and computer). The access to internet is fast and covered anywhere in Turkey thanks to the support of Turkcell, which is the best phone company in Turkey.

The process to rent a pocket wifi is very easy:

• Book your device on  through this link
• Get your device delivered to you  at your hotel or directly at the airport anytime you want
• Use the device(s)  according to the guideline during your trip
• The company will pick up the device  when and where you want before you leave the country

And voilà! Now you have internet during your travel to Turkey. For more information, click the button below.

Where to buy Turkey SIM Card in Istanbul

1. at istanbul airport or sabiha gökcen airport.

You can pre-order online and then pick it up at the airport, or have it delivered to your home, Airbnb or any other address.

Or find stores selling prepaid SIM cards in the arrival terminal of Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökcen Airport . One advantage is that the staff speaks English, and since the store is tailored to tourists, it will be easy to find a deal suited to your needs. However, you will usually find   more expensive offers in the stores at the airport . Additionally, there are always long queues. For this reason, buying your Turkey SIM card there is not advisable .

An easy and cheap option  is to  use the SIM card reservation service .  Simply make an early reservation and get your Turkey SIM card delivered to your hotel by a local authorised dealer. Local communications specialists are always there to help you with any questions you may have. As prices change almost weekly, you can also  get the latest prices from an local specialist via WhatsApp.

2. In the City

There are stores practically everywhere in Istanbul where you can buy a prepaid SIM card. In addition to the official branches of Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom, there are also electronic shops, phone stores, and kiosks that sell local SIM cards of these GSM operators. 

Please be aware that the branches of the Turkish GSM operators as well as the resellers may set their own prices for the SIM card. For this reason, prices vary from store to store , and can even be as high as 200 TL.  

Cost for Turkey SIM Cards for Tourists

1. Turkcell

Turkcell provides a special package for travelers, the “Tourist Welcome Pack”.

This package will be assigned to customers who buy a prepaid Turkcell SIM card with a foreign passport.

• What is included:  A SIM card with 20 GB data + 200 minutes of local calls + unlimited messaging via Whatsapp &BiP. As a bonus, you get special discounts at restaurants, hotels, car rental, and more.  
• Validity: Turkcell’s “Tourist Welcome Pack” is valid for 30 days. After 3 months, the SIM card will be deactivated.
• Visit the official Turkcell partner website for online ordering and delivery before you arrive.
• These prices can go up to €47 at the stores at the airport.

2. Vodafone Turkey 

The mobile provider Vodafone Turkey offers a special tourist package for prepaid SIM card. It is called "Welcome to Turkey Pack".

• What is included:  Vodafone's   Prepaid   Tourist SIM Card consists of 20 GB data + unlimited WhatsApp + 750 minutes of local calls + 1000 SMS 
• Validity: The tariff is valid for 28 days.  You can use your Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for a total of  90 days . After that, it will be deactivated.
• For more information and the most up-to-date prices, please cross check with the official Vodafone website. 
• These prices can go up to 8 90 TL at the airport.

3. Turk Telekom

Türk Telekom's special SIM card package for tourists is called "Hos geldin" (Welcome). 

• What is included: The Hosgeldin 25 GB package includes 25 GB + 750 minutes of local calls + 750 SMS 
• Validity:  The Turk Telekom prepaid SIM Card is valid for 28 days.
• Check the official Turk Telekom website for detailed information. (only in Turkish) 
• These prices can go up to 850 TL at the airport .

With all tariffs, it is possible to recharge it when it is used up.

• Need an airport transfer from Istanbul or Sabiha Gökcen Airport? See all your airport transfer options and book your Istanbul airport transfer  here . 

GSM Operators in Turkey 

• There are three mobile operators in Turkey: Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom.
• Turkcell is the largest mobile provider and the leading GSM operator in Turkey . In terms of good network coverage and internet speed in Turkey, it is the best provider, especially in smaller cities or remote areas
• All three operators offer a variety of prepaid SIM Card packages to choose from, some of them even have special SIM cards for tourists.
• Remember that prepaid SIM cards in Turkey are valid for a maximum of 120 days.
• The country code for Turkey is +90

Bottom Line

Regardless of which SIM card and provider you ultimately choose, where you buy the SIM card plays a key role . There are dozens of providers selling Turkish SIM cards throughout the city, as well as at both Istanbul airports.

Generally, you will find better deals in the city, but since the branches of Turkish GSM operators as well as resellers can set their own prices for the SIM card, the cost of a Turkish prepaid SIM card varies from store to store, leaving you exposed to a confusing jungle of prices.

For this reason, we recommend either to book a very affordable online service through Holafly eSIM service or ask a question through the form present on this page above.

For more amazing pictures and tips about Istanbul, follow  our official Instagram account @istanbul.tourist.information

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SIM cards in Turkey FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Which SIM card is the best for tourists in Turkey?

The best SIM card for your holiday in Turkey is “Tourist Welcome Pack” from  Turkcell.  Since   Turkcell has the best mobile network coverage in Turkey and a package deal tailored precisely to the needs of tourists, we think it is the best SIM card to use as a tourist in Turkey.

We particularly like the fact that the SIM card is already part of the package. This makes it much easier for tourists, because the fees for prepaid SIM cards vary from store to store in Turkey, which is why tourists often pay much more than locals. Another bonus is unlimited Whatsapp and the special benefits offered.

Of course, there are many more options, and ultimately it depends on your individual needs. Our local communications specialists will be happy to help you choose the right SIM card for your purposes. Just contact them via Whatsapp to get all the information and current prices, or to reserve your SIM card in advance and pick it up when you arrive in Istanbul.

How much is a SIM card in Turkey?

Since the branches of the Turkish GSM operators as well as the resellers can set their own prices for the SIM card, the cost of a prepaid SIM card varies from shop to shop and depending on the GSM operator. You can expect it to cost around 100-200 TL. Remember that you will often need to pay an activation fee and purchase an additional one-month data package.

Feel free to contact our local communication specialists via our contact form to find out the current rates at the airport and in the city.

Where to buy a Turkish SIM card?

You can buy your prepaid SIM card for Turkey either in the city or at the arrival floor at Istanbul or Sabiha Gökcen airport. 

There are stores practically everywhere in Istanbul where you can buy a prepaid SIM card. In addition to the official branches of Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom, there are also electronic shops, phone stores, and kiosks that sell local SIM cards of these GSM operators. Please note that prices vary from store to store, as the branches of the Turkish GSM operators as well as resellers may set their own prices for the SIM card.

To help travelers with the confusing price jungle of Turkey SIM Cards, we offer travelers our  SIM card reservation service.  If you have any questions or want to know the current prices, you can ask our local communication specialists at our booth at Istanbul Airport or in advance via Whatsapp. Reserving your SIM card online allows you to pick it up  as soon as you arrive, without having to wait in line.

Can I buy a SIM card at Istanbul Airport?

Yes, there are branches of all three Turkish GSM operators as well as mobile stores at the arrival floor of Istanbul Airport that sell local SIM cards. Note, however, that the prices for a prepaid SIM card in the stores at the airport are higher than in the city.

Plan your trip to Istanbul with experts

Let us help you design your trip to Istanbul according to your unique situation and desires. With our experience of 25 years and our network, we will get you the best prices for hotels and activities .

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The ultimate guide to choosing the best sim card in turkey for tourists.

• Cab Istanbul

Navigating Connectivity in the Crossroads of Cultures: Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best SIM Card in Turkey for Tourists

Welcome to the vibrant nexus where East meets West, where the azure waters of the Aegean flirt with the bustling streets of Istanbul — Turkey. As a traveler stepping into this mosaic of history, culture, and natural beauty, staying connected is paramount to enrich your Turkish escapade. This guide is meticulously crafted to be your digital compass, leading you through the intricate web of options to uncover the best SIM card solution for your travels across the land of bazaars, balmy beaches, and baklava. Embarking on a journey in Turkey without a reliable communication lifeline is akin to sailing the Bosphorus without a compass. Whether you're capturing the sunrise from a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, wandering through the ruins of Ephesus, or negotiating in the Grand Bazaar, seamless connectivity is key to enhancing your experience and ensuring safety. With an array of choices ranging from local heavyweights to budget-friendly operators, the Turkish mobile landscape presents a SIM card for every type of traveler. We'll delve into the essential factors you need to consider — from network coverage and data packages to cost-effectiveness and customer service. We will decode the fine print and demystify the process of obtaining, activating, and topping up your Turkish SIM card, so you can make an informed decision that suits your travel itinerary and keeps you connected with ease. So tighten your seatbelt as we prepare to take off on this journey through the digital terrain of Turkey. Say goodbye to hefty roaming charges and hello to a world of crystal-clear calls and lightning-fast data speeds at your fingertips. Welcome to 'Navigating Connectivity in the Crossroads of Cultures' — the only guide you'll need to stay connected in Turkey, as reliably as the sun graces the minarets each morning.

Experience the epitome of convenience with Cab Istanbul's premier chauffeur-driven car service. In our commitment to providing exceptional and seamless travel experiences, we offer an exclusive service that caters to your connectivity needs from the moment you land. With us, you can effortlessly pre-order your SIM card and have it delivered directly to you as part of your airport transfer service. Indulge in the luxury of immediate connectivity and unmatched comfort, ensuring you stay connected as you journey through the city with Cab Istanbul's distinguished service.

Choosing the Best SIM Card for Your Turkish Adventure

Essential Connectivity: Your Comprehensive Guide to Turkish SIM Cards for Travelers

Embark on a voyage through the crossroads of antiquity and modernity with our indispensable guide to SIM cards in Turkey. As you prepare to immerse yourself in the myriad offerings of this storied land—from the storied streets of Istanbul to the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia—ensuring seamless connectivity is key to a fulfilling and hassle-free journey. Our guide is designed to help you navigate through the myriad of SIM card options, ensuring you find the perfect match for your communication needs without compromising on value or convenience.

Ensuring Continuous Connection: Pre-Order Your SIM with Cab Istanbul for a Smooth Start

Introductory Paragraph: When you set foot on Turkish soil, let the continuity of your digital life be as uninterrupted as the rich history that surrounds you. Cab Istanbul melds luxury transport with the ultimate convenience in connectivity. With our impeccable chauffeur service, not only will you be escorted in comfort from the airport to your destination, but your pre-ordered SIM card will await you, ensuring you are connected from the moment you arrive. Discover the seamless transition from air to land, with a touch of digital ease that commences your Turkish escapade on a note of excellence.

Navigating Turkey's Mobile Networks: Insight into Operators and Coverage

Turkcell: The Bedrock of Connectivity in Turkey Turkcell, as Turkey's leading mobile operator, offers unmatched coverage and an array of SIM card options designed for tourists. Their comprehensive service ensures that whether you find yourself in the bustling city centers or off the beaten path, connectivity is always within reach.

Vodafone: Synonymous with Value Vodafone secures its reputation in Turkey by offering cost-effective tourist SIM card solutions. With substantial coverage that extends across urban centers and popular rural destinations, Vodafone delivers reliable service without straining your budget.

Türk Telekom: Affordability Meets Reliability Türk Telekom enters the arena with competitively priced offerings and a strong network presence, particularly in metropolitan areas. They provide an assortment of plans that cater to tourists seeking both short-term and extended connectivity solutions.

Point of Purchase: Where to Acquire Your Turkish SIM Card

Acquiring Your Digital Key to Turkey Find your SIM card at the various authorized retail outlets strewn across the cities, or conveniently at airport kiosks. Remember, your passport is essential for registration, tying your digital journey to your real-world adventures.

The Registration Rundown: Activating Your Turkish SIM

Adhering to Turkey's robust mobile regulations is straightforward with our step-by-step registration guide, ensuring your communication tools are fully operational, secure, and ready for your Turkish journey.

Tailoring Your Talk: Selecting the Perfect SIM Package

Deciphering Data and Calls for Your Turkish Sojourn Your travel agenda and data demands are as unique as Turkey itself. Our guide helps you pinpoint the perfect package, guaranteeing you stay connected with the right plan tailored to your trip's duration and specific needs.

Connectivity is your bridge to the world while you explore the wonders of Turkey, but remember to unplug occasionally to fully engage with the mesmerizing culture and landscapes that beckon. With the right SIM card in hand, your travels will be both enriching and effortlessly connected. Here's to a journey that's as smooth as the Turkish coffee that will energize your days. Safe travels and enjoy the unforgettable blend of tradition and modernity that Turkey offers.

Connectivity Made Easy:

Turkey SIM Card Showdown

The 2023-24 traveler's companion to sim cards in turkey: a comparative guide.

Embark on a digital odyssey as seamlessly as you would through the historic streets and picturesque landscapes of Turkey with our detailed guide. In 2023-24 , staying connected is as crucial as the adventures you'll embark upon. Dive into our comprehensive comparison of Turkey's leading SIM card providers—Türk Telekom, Vodafone Turkey, and Turkcell—to unlock the intricacies of their tourist-centric packages. Assess costs, package validity, and exclusive perks to identify the ideal communication ally for your Turkish sojourn.

Decoding SIM Card Tourist Packages: Türk Telekom, Vodafone Turkey, Turkcell

Türk Telekom: Embracing Wanderers with Generous Connectivity Türk Telekom rolls out the red carpet with their tourist-friendly SIM package, offering a hearty data allowance of 25 GB, complemented by 750 minutes of local talk time and 750 SMS, all valid for 28 days. Expect airport prices to hover around $100, allowing for convenient top-ups as your travel dictates.

Vodafone Turkey: Your Passport to Unrestricted Communication Vodafone's 'Welcome to Turkey Package' is designed for the modern traveler, featuring 20 GB of data, the luxury of unlimited WhatsApp usage, 750 minutes of local voice time, and 1000 SMS. Valid for 28 days with the SIM staying active for up to 90 days, this option is available at around $105 at airport outlets.

Turkcell: The Traveler's Quintessential Network Companion Turkcell's 'Tourist Welcome Package' is tailored for the globe-trotting communicators, providing 20 GB of data, 200 local minutes, and limitless messaging via WhatsApp & BiP for 30 days. Revel in additional benefits such as exclusive discounts at partner businesses. Anticipate airport prices at about $100, with a 3-month SIM card lifespan.

Essential Information: Purchasing and Registering Your SIM in Turkey

Remember, procuring a prepaid SIM card in the heart of Turkey requires a valid passport for registration. By weighing the amenities and financials of each offering, you can handpick a package that resonates with your itinerary and connectivity needs. With the right choice, your Turkish escapades in 2023-24 will be as connected as they are unforgettable.

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Turkiye SIM Card for Tourists: 2023 Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Turkiye soon and are wondering whether you need an unlocked phone or a Turkish SIM card to get connected there, the answer is yes to both. You will need to use the internet, send sms, and more while you are traveling and it’s important to make sure you have access when you need it. Having your own unlocked mobile phone will help you stay connected while traveling in the country, and getting a local SIM card from one of the top network operators there will help you make local calls at affordable rates. Here is what we have found so far.

Tip : If you’re traveling to Istanbul, renting a car is an absolute must! You’ll be able to see everything the city has to offer without dealing with the hassles of public transportation or expensive taxis. Plus, you’ll have the added benefit of being able to venture outside of the city limits to see some of Turkey’s other amazing sights. See options & prices here .

1. Should I get a sim card on my vacation in Turkiye?

2. how much does a sim card in turkiye cost, 3. which network operator is the best to get a tourist sim card (turkcell, vodafone and more), 4. what is a prepaid tourist sim card, 5. roaming on your uk / usa sim card, which sim card is best for turkey.

You don’t have to get a new SIM card while on vacation in Turkiye, if you already have an unlocked mobile phone and a UK / USA sim card with a data plan. You can keep using your existing SIM card, but keep in mind that data roaming charges might apply. The local network operators in Turkiye might have some roaming agreements with your home network operator, but you can never be sure. Therefore, it’s better to play safe and get an affordable tourist sim card in Turkiye to stay connected on the go.

“ Tip : If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul for more than 1 day, be prepared for the heavy traffic that can eat up a lot of your time. To make the most of your trip, we recommend staying in the Galata Tower area for its central location and easy accessibility to the city center, museums, and other popular attractions. Check out this link to find the best hotels in the area, and keep reading for more helpful tips!

The cost of a sim card in Turkiye will depend on the network operator you choose to buy it from, and their existing offers for local and international customers. For example, if you are an international tourist in Turkiye and looking to get a local SIM card, you can expect to pay around 25 to 30 USD for a SIM card depending on the network operator and their offers.

A local SIM card in Turkiye will cost less than 10 USD. This might be an option if you want to budget the amount of Turkish lira you want to spend, but remember this option offers local services. These are some of the network operators to get a tourist sim card in Turkiye: Turkcell and Vodafone are the leading ones. There are a variety of options as a Tourist Welcome Pack in Vodafone Turkey. A Turkcell sim card also comes with mobile internet, and more, depending on the plan you choose for your usage. You can also get a local SIM card from the two leading mobile network operators in the country – the Turkish Telecommunication Authority (T-Mobile) and Turk Telekom (A Turkish Company).

If you want to get the best sim card possible, the top network operators to get a SIM card in Turkiye are Vodafone and Turkcell . They both have the best coverage, a wide range of plans and packages for customers, and also provide a reliable network for tourists. The network operators have also partnered with a few network agencies to sell their SIM cards to tourists. It is the best option to get a sim card in Turkiye for tourists.

Considering you will be using the internet to do most things while traveling (using Google Maps , registration, email, etc.), and that accesing WiFi might be difficult in some situations, it might be best to choose a plan with unlimited data. You might want to tak to your loved ones back home frequently, or maybe you will need to make many business calls within Turkey, so making a change in your phone number may affect your travel quality. Some plans include limited GB of internet, however, they provide unlimited WhatsApp , or another app like Facebook , or Twitter , which is good if those are your primary platform of communication. There are also SIM bundles you can choose from. Either way, if you know your priorities finding the best deal is no hassle, because there are many options available, and you can find relevant info on their websites now.

A prepaid tourist sim card is a local SIM card that you can get from any of the network agencies in Turkiye. You can get a Turkey prepaid card from any of the leading operators in the country – Vodafone, Turk Telecom, and Turkcell. These companies offer special tourist prepaid SIM card options– with a tourist plan that you can get at an affordable price to stay connected while in Turkiye.

The prepaid Turkey sim card for tourists will help you stay connected with friends and family back home, get cheap local and international calls, and use data to stay connected anytime, anywhere in the country. The best thing about tourist SIM cards in Turkiye is that you can make calls and use data as much as you want without worrying about running up a huge bill. Tourist SIM card Turkiye offers have a wide variety for your convenience. Do not forget that you will need to show your passport to get a tourist SIM card Turkey. You don’t necessarily need a physical tourist SIM card Turkey, you can get an e-SIM card. An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to access your carrier without a physical one.

If you have an unlocked mobile phone and a United Kingdom or United States SIM card, you can use it while traveling in Turkiye. The only thing you need to do is enable data roaming on your network operator’s account. You can then use your UK / USA SIM card to make calls, send text messages, and use data. Don’t forget that although you will likely be able to find content to watch or listen to in English, you might need to use VPN to access content you were able to access back in Europe, or the US, in your streaming services.

Make sure you don’t go over your monthly data limit. You might incur roaming charges while traveling in Turkiye depending on your network operator. For more information about what to do in Istanbul, you can also check our blog on 7 days Istanbul itinerary !

If you’re a tourist visiting Turkiye, it is highly recommended to get a prepaid tourist SIM card. The SIM card will provide you with unlimited data and a variety of call and text packages to suit your needs without worrying about high bills.

Tourist SIM cards can be easily obtained by providing your passport at various vendors across the country. If you don’t want to bother with having a physical card, an e-SIM option is also available. However, if you have an unlocked mobile phone and a UK or USA SIM card, enabling data roaming on your operator’s account could also be an option.

Check out the HeyTripster readers’ top-rated Istanbul attractions:

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Best Tourist Sim Cards in Turkey in 2024

By Author Delilah

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

If you’re visiting Turkey then you’re undoubtedly going to need a sim card. Having access to the internet when you’re travelling makes navigating new cities easy. You can find the best restaurants, directions to your accommodation, book a taxi and send photos back to your family – all whilst on the go.

Roaming is always an option, but the fees quickly add up when travelling internationally, so we always recommend either an eSIM or a local sim card to get access to local phone rates. Fortunately, getting either an eSim or local sim card in Turkey is super easy, but it helps to know which one is best! 

We were recently in Turkey and were shocked to find the prices of sim cards to be amongst the highest we’d seen in any country we’ve visited. We quickly realised the stores in Istanbul are indirectly colluding to fix the price of tourist sim cards in Turkey high. Lovely.

This guide is designed to tell you everything you need to know about buying a sim card in Turkey, including up to date pricing and the absolute best sim card for you to buy.

Best Sim Card in Turkey for Tourists

Turkey sim card prices, turkish sim card providers, how to get a sim card in turkey, where to get a sim card in turkey, turkey esim, european roaming in turkey, mobile network performance in turkey.

The best sim card in Turkey is actually to not get one in Turkey at all. We visited all the different sim card providers in Turkey, we even visited numerous stores for each provider, and came to the conclusion that the prices are essentially fixed and they’re all ripping tourists off. We hate it and think you should boycott it.

For this reason we recommend that anyone with an eSim compatible phone purchases an Airalo eSim here before arriving in Turkey or on arrival. Why? Well, Turkey is one of those unique countries where it’s actually significantly cheaper to buy an eSim than it is to buy a local sim card.

And it’s not just cheaper, it’s also way more convenient. The process of buying one of the local sim cards in Turkey can be elaborate, requiring navigating the traffic to the nearest store and then waiting while they register your passport and set up your sim card – usually at LEAST half an hour. Your eSim can be up and running in minutes from the airport wifi or your hotel room.

We have an entire section later in this guide dedicated to eSims in case you need more information, so more on this later. But long story short, buy this eSim before you arrive in Turkey – don’t buy one there.

The eSim prices are below, buying a sim card in stores in Istanbul costs around $30-40 USD (we were there recently) – and that’s if you get a good price.

What about people without eSim compatible phones?

Most phones produced these days are compatible with eSims (including all iPhones produced since 2018). But some aren’t. If you’re not yet one of the lucky people with an eSim compatible phone then your only option is to purchase a local sim card.

The good news is you can use any of the three sim card providers in Turkey: Vodafone, Turk Telekom and Turkcell. Though we’d give the edge to Turkcell if you get to choose. 

The bad news is unless you are a Turkish citizen, you will not get to choose your sim card. You will have to purchase their tourist sim which will be registered with your passport. It will take a while and it will cost you way too much.

A Tourist Sim Card in Turkey costs around $30 USD, or 28 EUR, but they can easily cost as much as 40 USD, or 37 EUR, depending on the store you visit. A Turkey eSim will cost between $4.50 USD and $26 USD depending on how much data you require, but for most travellers the $12 USD eSim is perfect.

As you can see, sim card prices in Turkey are extortionate. We enquired at the airport, as well as Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom stores all around Istanbul and received similar prices from each store. An Airalo is undoubtedly your best option right now and we highly recommend this option.

Note on Currencies: Turkey has extremely high inflation which causes all the prices you see online to be out of date within a matter of weeks. Even though we just visited recently, the price in Turkish Lira has likely already changed so it is more useful for us to provide the price in USD or EUR, even though you will need to pay in Turkish Lira once you arrive in Turkey.

Turkey has several prominent SIM card providers that offer reliable services and extensive coverage. 

Turkcell, as the largest mobile network operator, provides a wide range of prepaid and postpaid plans with flexible options for data and calling. 

Vodafone Turkey is known for its strong network infrastructure and appealing package deals, including affordable international calling rates. 

Türk Telekom, the national telecommunications company, offers reliable service and diverse plan choices. 

Other notable providers include Avea, which provides competitive rates and package options, as well as MVNOs like Turk Telekom Mobile and PTTCell. 

With these providers, customers in Turkey have a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences and needs.

Turkcell Tourist Sim 

Turkcell provides excellent tourist SIM cards in Turkey, ensuring seamless connectivity during your visit. With wide coverage and fast internet speeds, you can navigate, communicate, and share your experiences effortlessly. 

Turkcell offers flexible data plans to suit your requirements, allowing you to stay connected throughout your journey. 

You’ll experience reliable and convenient communication with Turkcell’s tourist SIM cards.

Turkcell Turkey Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Turkcell tourist sim card in Turkey varies between $30 and $40 USD, or 28 and 37 EUR. It is not possible for a non-Turkish resident to purchase any other sim plan from here.

The plan offered by all Turkcell stores includes 20 GB data + 200 minutes + Free WhatsApp valid for 1 month.

Vodafone Turkey Tourist Sim

Vodafone offers exceptional tourist SIM cards in Turkey. With extensive coverage and high-speed internet, you stay connected throughout your journey. 

Enjoy affordable data plans tailored to suit your needs, allowing you to browse, share, and explore hassle-free. Plus, Vodafone’s reliable network ensures uninterrupted communication, making it the ideal choice for tourists. 

Stay connected and make the most of your Turkish adventure with Vodafone tourist SIM cards.

Vodafone Turkey Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Vodafone tourist sim card in Turkey varies between $30 and $40 USD, or 28 and 37 EUR. It is not possible for a non-Turkish resident to purchase any other sim plan from here.

The plan offered by all Vodafone stores includes 20 GB data + 750 minutes + 1,000 sms + unlimited whatsapp valid for 28 days.

Turk Telecom Tourist Sim

Turk Telekom offers reliable tourist SIM cards in Turkey, ensuring uninterrupted communication while you explore the country. 

With extensive coverage and high-speed internet, you can stay connected, browse, and share your experiences effortlessly. 

Turk Telekom’s flexible data plans cater to your needs, providing a seamless connectivity experience for tourists. Enjoy a hassle-free stay with Turk Telekom tourist SIM cards.

Turk Telekom Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Turk Telekom tourist sim card in Turkey varies between $30 and $40 USD, or 28 and 37 EUR. It is not possible for a non-Turkish resident to purchase any other sim plan from here.

The plan offered by all Turk Telecom stores includes 25 GB data + 750 minutes + 750 sms + 5 GB social media valid for 28 days.

Although we recommend purchasing an eSim, if you need to buy a local, prepaid sim card in Turkey here are the steps to follow:

• Identify mobile providers: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom are your only options in Turkey.
• Find a store: Locate a store or retailer by searching on Google Maps for your nearest store or asking at your hotel reception. They can be found in major cities, shopping centers, or tourist areas. 
• Bring necessary documents: Carry your passport or identification documents for registration purposes. We’ve provided additional details on this below.
• Choose a plan: Consult with the staff in your store to select the right plan for you. In Turkey they will only be able to offer you their tourist sim package.
• Pay and activate: Pay for the SIM card and plan, and the staff will activate it for you. 
• Test: Check you can access the internet before you leave the store.

Registration Process

When visiting Turkey as a tourist or non-resident, it’s important to note that you can only obtain a travel sim card specifically designed for tourists. These SIM cards are registered under your passport number and name, so don’t forget to bring your passport when purchasing one. The store will make a copy of your passport for registration purposes, ensuring compliance with the regulations.

As of 2023, there is a maximum usage period of 3 months for prepaid SIM cards and imported mobile phones before they may be blocked. If you exceed this timeframe, you will be required to pay an import tax based on the value of your phone. It’s essential to keep this in mind to avoid any inconveniences during your stay.

If you find these regulations inconvenient or are looking for a workaround, there are alternative options available. You can consider purchasing an international SIM card specifically designed for use in Turkey. Another convenient solution is to order an eSIM card for Turkey, which eliminates the need for a physical SIM card and provides seamless connectivity.

When it comes to purchasing a Turkey prepaid SIM card, you have various options available. You can buy one in person at international airports, mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or online. However, it’s important to note that buying a SIM card at the airport can be pricey and may offer limited data options, so it’s generally not recommended.

While SIM card shops may not be available at every airport, it’s advisable to consider alternative options. Opting to buy a SIM card directly from a mobile provider store is often a better choice. Keep in mind that you may need to present your passport during the purchase process.

It’s worth noting that buying a SIM card from a provider store means you may not have immediate data upon arrival. If you prefer constant connectivity, you can explore using an eSIM or purchasing a European prepaid SIM card online. Many Europe SIM cards also offer coverage in Turkey.

At the Airport

The most convenient option for purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Turkey is undoubtedly upon arrival at any of the international airports. 

IST Airport and SAW Airport in Istanbul are the common entry points for most travelers visiting Turkey. The good news is that sim card stores from major mobile internet providers can be found in the arrival halls of other international airports as well, including Antalya, Ankara, Izmir, Bodrum, Trabzon, and Kayseri. 

This ensures easy accessibility to tourist SIM cards at Turkish airports throughout the country.

However, it’s important to note that purchasing a SIM card at the international airports in Turkey typically comes with higher prices geared towards tourists. 

For more affordable SIM card deals, it is advisable to explore options in the city center, away from the airport premises. By venturing into the city, you can often find better deals on SIM cards specifically tailored for tourists visiting Turkey.

For the best prepaid SIM card deals and data plans in Turkey, it is advisable to purchase your SIM card away from the airport. Seek out locations frequented by locals to obtain better prices. However, even in these places, tourists may still encounter higher prices for their prepaid SIM cards.

Fortunately, there are numerous official retail stores of mobile internet operators scattered throughout the city. You can easily locate them using Google Maps. Simply visit one of these stores, present your passport, and purchase a tourist SIM card without any issues.

We recommend opting for an official retail store of a mobile internet provider rather than a random phone store. These stores offer prepaid SIM cards for Turkey at varying prices. It’s important to insert your newly registered SIM card into your phone and ensure everything is functioning properly before leaving the store. However, fitting all this into your busy Turkey itinerary can be a pain, hence the online option below!

If you like to be prepared and would prefer to arrive in Turkey with your sim card all sorted and your phone ready to connect to the internet immediately then you should look into purchasing a sim card online.

The first option is to buy your sim card in advance via SimOptions, which is a company that will prepare and ship a sim card directly to your door. It’s a reliable and effective service, but with the invention of eSims it’s becoming obsolete.

The better option is to purchase an eSim online. We’ve written more on that below!

An eSim is a digital version of a traditional sim card and is most likely the future of connectivity for mobile devices. The convenience of no longer visiting a store, handing over your passport and purchasing a physical sim card is quickly making physical sim cards obsolete in favour of eSims.

We recommend Airalo’s eSim when travelling to Turkey. The Airalo Turkey eSim offers fast internet speeds, wide coverage and extremely competitive prices making it a far more compelling option than purchasing a physical sim card from any of the local sim card providers.

In order to get set up with an Airalo eSim, all you need to do is visit Airalo here and purchase the eSim online (the $12 USD plan is suitable for most travellers, but higher plans are also available). Once you’ve purchased the sim card, Airalo will email you instructions and a QR code. Following these instructions should take just a couple of minutes, then you’ll have a sim card in Turkey without having to venture outside.

eSim Providers in Turkey

None of the local networks currently offer eSims in Turkey, however, Airalo and Holafly are market leaders globally when it comes to eSims. We’ve used both numerous times around the world, including in Turkey, and can genuinely recommend them both.

Airalo Turkey

Our preferred eSim provider in Turkey is Airalo. We used them, alongside a local sim card on another device, for our most recent trip to Turkey and found the service to be equal to the local sim card but without the hassle of acquiring a sim card in a store.

Airalo’s Turkey eSim uses the Turk Telekom network to provide data and connect users to the internet. Turk Telekom’s network has very wide coverage and reliability as the second best mobile network provider in the country.

Here are the plans and prices for Airalo’s Turkey eSim:

1GB data valid for 7 days – Price: $4.50 USD

2GB data valid for 15 days – Price: $6.50 USD

3GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $8 USD

5GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $12 USD

10GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $18 USD

20GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $26 USD

For most travellers we recommend the 5GB data plan for $12 USD which is valid for 30 days. Some travellers may prefer a larger plan, whilst travellers visiting for just a couple of days may be fine with a smaller plan.

Holafly turkey

An alternative eSim provider we can recommend is Holafly. 

Holafly’s eSim is a suitable option for travellers who require large amounts of data, such as digital nomads and people who work online while they travel. All of Holafly’s Turkey eSims offer unlimited data.

Holafly’s Turkey eSim uses the Avea / Fital networks to provide data and connect users to the internet. These providers are two of the smaller companies, however, they should still offer similar connectivity and download speeds.

Here are the plans and prices for Holafly’s Turkey eSim:

Unlimited data valid for 5 days – Price: $19 USD

Unlimited data valid for 7 days – Price: $27 USD

Unlimited data valid for 10 days – Price: $34 USD

Unlimited data valid for 15 days – Price: $47 USD

Unlimited data valid for 20 days – Price: $54 USD

Unlimited data valid for 30 days – Price: $64 USD

Unlimited data valid for 60 days – Price: $84 USD

As you can see these plans are a lot more expensive than Airalo, so unless you require unlimited data we recommend Airalo over Holafly.

What is an eSim?

An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that is built into a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, an eSIM does not require a physical card to be inserted or removed from the device.

Instead, the eSIM is integrated into the device’s hardware and can be activated and programmed remotely by a mobile network operator. This allows users to switch between different mobile networks or plans without needing to physically swap SIM cards.

eSIM technology provides convenience, flexibility, and ease of use, especially for travelers or individuals who frequently switch between different mobile networks or travel internationally. It eliminates the need to purchase and insert physical SIM cards, making it more convenient for managing multiple mobile connections on a single device.

To activate an eSIM, users need to scan a QR code provided by their mobile network operator or manually enter the activation details. Once activated, the device can connect to the chosen mobile network and enjoy voice, data, and messaging services as with a traditional SIM card.

Why Use an eSim?

There are several reasons why using an eSIM can be beneficial:

Convenience: With an eSIM, you don’t need to physically insert or remove a SIM card when switching between mobile networks or plans. This convenience is particularly useful for frequent travelers who may need to switch networks or use local SIM cards in different countries.

Dual SIM functionality: eSIM allows you to have dual SIM functionality on your device, meaning you can have two active mobile numbers on the same device. This can be useful for separating personal and work numbers or for managing multiple phone lines.

Space-saving: As eSIMs are embedded within the device, it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card slot. This frees up space within the device, allowing manufacturers to make devices smaller or use the extra space for other components.

Remote provisioning: With eSIMs, activation and management of mobile plans can be done remotely over the air. This means you can activate or switch to a new mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card or visiting a store. It offers greater flexibility and convenience for managing your mobile connectivity.

Future-proofing: As eSIM technology continues to gain traction, more mobile networks and service providers are offering support for eSIMs. By using an eSIM-compatible device, you ensure that you can take advantage of new services and offerings as they become available.

Overall, eSIM technology provides flexibility, convenience, and future-proofing for mobile connectivity, making it a compelling choice for many users.

eSim Compatible Phones

eSIM technology is becoming increasingly popular and is supported by a growing number of smartphones and other devices. Here are some examples of eSIM-compatible phones:

Apple iPhone series (iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, etc.): Apple was one of the early adopters of eSIM technology and offers support for eSIM on various iPhone models.

Google Pixel series (Pixel 3, Pixel 4, Pixel 5, etc.): Google’s Pixel smartphones also support eSIM functionality, allowing users to activate and use eSIMs.

Samsung Galaxy series (Galaxy S22, Galaxy Note 20, etc.): Many of Samsung’s flagship devices now come with eSIM support, enabling users to utilize eSIM technology.

OnePlus devices (OnePlus 7, OnePlus 8, etc.): OnePlus has included eSIM support in some of its smartphone models, offering users the flexibility of using eSIMs.

Motorola Razr (2020): The latest iteration of the iconic Motorola Razr features eSIM compatibility, enabling users to use eSIMs for cellular connectivity.

These are just a few examples, and the list of eSIM-compatible phones continues to expand as more manufacturers embrace this technology. There’s a very strong chance your phone supports eSims so if you’re unsure we recommend looking it up on Google to confirm before purchasing one.

How to Use an eSim

Using an eSim is new for many travellers, however, the good news is it’s surprisingly easy to get set up – even for the technologically challenged!

Here’s a general guide on how to use an eSIM:

• Check eSIM Compatibility: Ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality. Many newer smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and other devices are eSIM compatible including all iPhones produced since 2018.
• Obtain an eSIM: There are multiple ways to acquire an eSIM. You can purchase an eSIM online from a provider like Airalo (which we recommend) or directly from a mobile network operator. Some devices also allow you to scan a QR code provided by your carrier to download the eSIM profile.
• Activate the eSIM: Your eSim provider will send you instructions to activate the sim. This will usually involve scanning a QR code, entering an activation code, or downloading the eSIM profile directly onto your device.
• Set up the eSIM: Once activated, your device will guide you through the eSIM setup process. This typically involves selecting the eSIM as your preferred mobile plan, configuring settings like data roaming, and entering any necessary authentication details.
• Enjoy the Connection: Once the eSIM is set up, you can use it as you would with a physical SIM card. Make calls, send messages, browse the internet, and use data services as needed. You can also switch between eSIM profiles if you have multiple eSIMs installed on your device.

Turkey is not a member of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), although it is a Potential Candidate Country for EU membership.

Due to this, the EU/EEA Roam Like At Home regulation, which enables free roaming within EU/EEA countries, does not apply in Turkey. Therefore, if you have an EU/EEA SIM card, you should not expect to roam for free while traveling in Turkey.

Additionally, it’s important to note that with a Turkey SIM card, you cannot enjoy free roaming in the EU/EEA either. The roaming benefits provided by the EU/EEA Roam Like At Home regulation are specific to EU/EEA member states and do not extend to Turkey.

There is, however, a solution to this if you are planning to travel around Europe!

Airalo EuroLink eSim

If you’re visiting other European countries alongside your trip to Turkey then you should consider purchasing a single eSim that will work across multiple countries.

That is where Airalo’s Eurolink eSim comes in. This eSim offers data that can be used across 39 countries in Europe with plans ranging from 7 days to 180 days. By purchasing this eSim you can travel all across Europe without losing connectivity at all.

Really, I can’t stress how amazing this is! 

Here are the plans and prices:

1GB data valid for 7 days – Price: $5 USD

3GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $13 USD

5GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $20 USD

10GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $37 USD

50GB data valid for 90 days – Price: $100 USD

100GB data valid for 180 days – Price: $185 USD

Mobile Network Coverage

Turkey has extensive mobile network coverage throughout the country, including urban areas, towns, and even rural regions. The major mobile network operators in Turkey, such as Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom, provide comprehensive coverage across the country, ensuring reliable voice and data services.

In urban areas and popular tourist destinations, network coverage is generally excellent, offering high-speed 4G LTE and even 5G connectivity. You can expect good coverage in cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and Bodrum.

In more remote or rural areas, coverage may be slightly limited compared to urban regions, but it is still available in most areas. It’s worth noting that some remote or mountainous regions may have weaker signals or intermittent coverage.

Turkcell offers the best mobile network coverage of the three providers in Turkey, however, all three providers cover every location that you will realistically expect mobile network coverage as a traveller.

Mobile Network Speed

According to Speedtest , Turkcell has the fastest mobile download speeds of the three main networks in Turkey with 51.76 Mbps median download speed. This was followed by Turk Telekom at 28.4 Mbps and Vodafone at 16.83 Mbps.

Turk Telekom has the lowest multi-server latency at 38ms compared to Turkcell at 41ms and Vodafone at 45ms. 

This means that Turkcell will allow you to download large files faster than the other networks, such as for video streaming, whilst Turk Telekom will have a shorter lag between actions you take online, which is beneficial for general browsing.

Mobile Network Experience

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Trip Turkey

Buy SIM Card for Tourists in Turkey in 2023

Traveling to Turkey as a tourist can be an exciting and memorable experience, but staying connected on the go can be challenging. For this reason, we will give you information about buying and using sim cards for tourists in Turkey.

Using your home country’s mobile network can be costly, especially when it comes to roaming charges. But if you have an international sim card, you can connect to the internet as you wish with this modem .

Another solution is to buy a local SIM card in Turkey.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of getting a SIM card in Turkey, compare major mobile network operators, and provide tips and advice for maximizing your mobile experience while in the country.

You can also learn how to search within Turkey with our Turkey area code article.

Table of Contents

Do tourists need a sim card in turkey, buying a sim card from the airport, buying sim cards in stores in the city, buying online esim in turkey for tourists, buy portable modem, sim card for tourists in turkey – faq.

This question is personal. It may vary depending on the operator you use in your own country and the length of stay in Turkey. If you are going to stay in Turkey for more than 3 days and do not have an international sim card, it would be good to buy one.

The telecom company you use in your own country may have an agreement with the telecom companies in Turkey and you can use your own sim card in Turkey at a low cost.

For example, Vodafone is used in many European countries and Turkey. It may be more cost-effective to choose Vodafone international packages instead of buying a new sim card.

If you are planning to spend a short time like 1-2 days in Turkey, you can manage with free public internet. Although it is a bit slow, there is free internet service in almost all hotels and cafes. In addition, some municipalities have free internet service in their parks.

If you plan to stay in Turkey for more than 3 days and want to travel constantly, purchasing an eSim card or a physical sim card will be more affordable and the coverage will be wider.

Buying SIM Cards in Turkey for Tourists in 2023

If you want to buy a sim card in Turkey in 2023, you can buy it from physical dealers or buy a sim card online before you come to Turkey.

It might make more sense to buy online. However, if you plan to stay in Turkey for a short time and don’t want to spend a lot of money, you can try to settle for free WiFi.

Let’s take a quick look at the online sim card options in Turkey and the sim card brands that have physical stores in Turkey.

Airports are the first place you can buy a sim card as soon as you arrive in Turkey. Almost all airports in Turkey have stores where you can buy prepaid lines.

The fact that the staff working in the stores at the airport speaks English is an advantage for you, but the sim cards sold at the airport are 2-3 times more expensive than normal.

Therefore, if you do not have an urgent business, it may make more sense to consider other options.

You can find stores where you can buy sim cards in all streets and shopping centers of Turkey.

The brands that you can buy sim cards in Turkey are Vodafone, Turkcell, and Türk Telekom.

You can find cheaper alternatives from the physical dealers of these brands compared to the airport. However, you may not find an English sales consultant in every dealership. But you can get your work done by using translate.

After purchasing a sim card in Turkey as a tourist, your sim card will be activated immediately.

If you are going to buy a sim card in Turkey as a tourist, you will probably be given one of the special offers created for tourists. It would be good to find out how much internet and speaking rights you have at the time of purchase.

Now, let’s talk about operators that also have physical stores in Turkey.

1. Vodafone

Vodafone is one of the most common operators in Turkey and you can find its store everywhere.

Vodafone has a package called “Tourist Easy Package”, specially created for tourists. After purchasing a sim card, your Tourist Easy Package will be active. You can use this sim card in Turkey for 30 days.

Vodafone provides service in nearly 25 countries. If you are using Vodafone in your own country, you can buy the overseas package without buying a new sim card in Turkey. This way it can be more affordable.

If you have a complaint about your Vodafone sim card, you can call 542 and talk to a customer representative who speaks English.

You can access Vodafone’s Sim Card for Tourists page here .

2. Turkcell

Turkcell is another sim card company widely used in Turkey. You can find a Turkcell store almost anywhere.

As a foreign tourist, you can buy a prepaid sim card from Turkcell with your passport.

You can choose a sim card with 20 GB of internet and 200 minutes of talk time at Turkcell, or you can buy a sim card that you can pay as you go.

Turkcell call center number is 532 and you can access the web page for the Turist line here .

3. Türk Telekom

Another sim card company is Türk Telekom brand. You can find Türk Telekom stores like Vodafone and Turkcell everywhere.

Türk Telekom is the brand where you can buy the cheapest sim card in Turkey.

Türk Telekom offers three different options for tourists who want to buy sim cards in Turkey.

The cheapest tariff offers 750 minutes of talk for 28 days, 750 SMS, and 25 GB of internet and the price is 85 TL.

Another tariff offers 1500 minutes of talk time, 1000 SMS, and 50 GB of internet. You can use the sim card with a 5 GB social media gift for 28 days. The price of this sim card is 165 TL.

The tariff with the most internet offers 75 GB internet and 750 SMS rights are defined with 750 minutes of talking. The price of this sim card is 165 Turkish Liras and it has a 15-day usage period.

Whatsapp is free on these 3 different sim cards and does not reduce your internet. You can visit the web page of the tariffs here .

If you have a problem with the Türk Telekom sim card, you can reach the call center by calling 444 1 444.

You can activate your sim card before you come to Turkey as a tourist and start using it as soon as you arrive in Turkey.

All you need to do is purchase one prepaid eSIM. If you wish, let’s take a quick look at the eSIM brands you can use in Turkey.

eSIM in Turkey with Holafly

Holafly is an eSIM brand that you can use worldwide and in Turkey.

With Holafly you can buy e-sims from 5 days to 90 days. 3G/4G/LTE speed options are available and you can purchase unlimited internet. You don’t have to pay a country change fee either.

👉🏻 You can browse here to buy eSIM for Turkey with Holafly.

How to use eSIM with Holafly?

• Check if your phone is compatible with eSIM.
• Buy your eSIM
• Scan the QR code that will come to you 2-3 hours before your trip.

That’s all it takes with Holafly.

Holafly compatible devices

Models higher than XS and XR for iPhone.

For Android devices, Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and later; Huawei P40, P0 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro and later models; Google Pixel 3, 3a (some versions do not allow eSIM), Google Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 5 and later models; Oppo Find X3 Pro, Oppo Reno 5A, Motorola Razr (2019) and Motorola Razr 5G (dual SIM).

Apart from these models, you can check if your phone is compatible with eSIM. Remember, your phone must be unlocked for Holafly eSIM to work.

For iOS devices: go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data; If you have the “Add Cellular Plan” or “Add Data Plan” option, your iPhone supports eSIMs.

On Android devices (Samsung): go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager; If you have the “Add mobile plan” option, your smartphone supports eSIMs.

Turkey Sim Card

Turkey SIM Card, like Holafly, is a Turkey-specific eSIM brand. You can buy a physical sim card other than an e-sim card.

We recommend purchasing an eSIM if your device supports it. If it is not supported, you can buy online via Turkey SIM Card and receive your sim card at airports without waiting in line.

If you don’t want to waste time at the airport, you can also request that it be delivered to your hotel by cargo.

There is also a portable WIFI device service of this brand for $1 per day.

Turkey SIM Cards start from 5 days and there are different internet packages from 15 GB to 155 GB. Prices range from $23 to $90.

👉🏻 You can buy it by visiting the Turkey SIM Card website .

👉🏻 You can check the comments about Turkey SIM Cards on Tripadvisor .

Renting portable WIFI in Turkey

If you have come to Turkey on holiday with your family or group of friends, it would be logical to rent an internet line and a portable WIFI modem that can be used by more than one person.

This device, which is provided with Turkcell infrastructure, contains an unlimited internet sim card.

You can rent with online reservations and receive delivery from 8 different points in Turkey. Among the delivery, points are Istanbul airports and Antalya Airports. There is also a courier service to the hotel in Istanbul and Antalya.

You can connect more than one device to the internet with the Wifi service, which costs 7.99 Euro per day.

👉🏻 You can check here to rent unlimited Wifi service in Turkey.

As a tourist in Turkey, it can be expensive to buy a portable modem, even for a short time.

Instead of renting a modem, you can buy and use a portable modem that works with a sim card. Also, since the modem will be yours, you can use it for your next trip.

👉🏻 Buy an affordable and quality portable sim card modem.

Let’s continue our SIM Card buying guide for Tourists in Turkey with frequently asked questions.

How long can tourists use a SIM card in Turkey?

According to Turkish law, foreign tourists can use SIM cards purchased with their passports for 120 days. After 120 days, you need a Turkish ID number to use the SIM card.

Can I use my own mobile phone in Turkey?

Mobile phones brought from abroad can be used uninterruptedly for 120 days in Turkey. If you want to use your phone after 120 days, you must register with your passport. In this case, some payment is made.

Where can I buy the best SIM Card in Turkey?

You can choose Vodafone, Türk Telekom, or Turkcell for uninterrupted communication in Turkey. Türk Telekom is the cheapest among them. Vodafone has special campaigns for tourists.

Can I use an eSIM card in Turkey?

Yes, you can use eSIM cards purchased from brands such as Holafly and Turkey Sim Card in Turkey. Before purchasing, make sure to check if your device is eSIM compatible.

Is free WIFI common in Turkey?

There is free WIFI service in almost every hotel and cafe in Turkey. In addition, many municipal parks have free WIFI service and you can use it.

How much are SIM Card fees for Tourists in Turkey?

SIM Card fees for Tourists in Turkey vary according to the brand you buy. The cheapest option is Türk Telekom and its current prices for 2023 are 85 TL (5 Dollars or 5 Euros).

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SIM Cards in Turkey: How to Buy + Best Deals

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

Traveling to Turkey? Wondering where and how to buy a local SIM card for your trip to Turkey? We’ve done all the research so you don’t have to!

We spent three months in Turkey, now known as Türkiye, in 2022 and tried the three big mobile providers for a month each, plus we tried a couple of eSIM cards in Turkey too.

In this guide to Turkish SIM cards, we’ll answer all your frequently asked questions, including how to save money when buying your SIM card, how to get the best signal and speed, how to get the best 4g, and how to keep your phone topped up for the whole of your stay.

Do You Need a SIM Card in Turkey?

Most Turkish hotels, cafés and restaurants have pretty good wifi services, so you may be wondering why you even need a mobile SIM card when you’re traveling in Turkey.

If you’re always on the go, using public transport or driving, and hopping between cities and attractions, then a local SIM card is invaluable. The convenience of being able to check your bank balance, translate, order an Uber or Lyft, book a hotel or even call for roadside assistance just make life on the road a little bit easier.

Also, public networks in hotels, shopping malls and eateries are not secure. If you need to manage personal banking, send emails or do anything other than browsing and streaming, you’ll be vulnerable using public wifi.

Good to Know: All Turkey SIM card prices and exchange rates are accurate at the time of going to press in mid-October 2022.

Planning a trip to Turkey? Get all our tips and tricks about driving in Turkey so you can stay safe on the road and have an amazing trip!

What About Your Existing Provider?

You will not be able to use your data, make calls or send texts with your domestic contract, unless you’re willing to spend a lot of money. Our UK-based mobile phone provider charges us £3.33/US$3.73 per 1GB, or £6/US$6.73 a day for an international roaming package, and some American friends we met in the country were looking at even higher costs to use their cell phones overseas.

The best option is to buy a local SIM card. You’ll need to make sure your phone is unlocked, and it’s best to do this before you arrive in Turkey, as it can take a few days.

But what if you don’t want to swap SIMs and lose your number? You could get a portable wifi device, use an eSIM or use an app for calling – but we’ll come onto that later.

Good to Know: If you’re in the country for any longer than 120 days, you will need to register your device in Turkey and pay the registration fee of 2,732 Turkish lire (£131/US$147) or your phone will be blocked from the Turkish mobile phone networks. Find out how to register your phone here .

Best SIM Card Turkey: Our Recommendation

If you’re in a hurry and just want to know the best SIM card in Turkey for tourists, then go with Turkcell . You can get a Turkcell tourist welcome pack, which gives you 20GB of data plus country-wide calls and SMS, for around £15/US$17.

We recommend Turkcell because it has by far the best network coverage, an intuitive and easy-to-use app for topping up data, and wide coverage of stores and re-sellers. It is not the cheapest of the Turkish operators, but at around 25p/30c per 1GB of top-up data, it is at least 80% cheaper than the equivalent costs in the UK or USA.

Is this your first time visiting Turkey? Get all the information you need in our Turkey Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Buying Tourist SIM Cards in Turkey

The sale of SIM cards to visitors in Turkey is controlled by the government, and you will only be able to purchase a tourist pre-paid SIM card. expect the process to take at least 30-40 minutes, with a contract to be signed at the end.

One SIM card is allowed per passport, and you must take this with you when you buy the SIM, which will be registered against your passport and visa (if you need one). You’ll be asked to sign a simple contract at the end of the transaction.

Pop the SIM into your phone and check it’s working. Remember to keep the contract and SIM envelope as it will have your new Georgian phone number written on it, and you’ll need this to use the app.

Your prepaid Turkey SIM card is valid for 28 days. If you need it for longer, make sure to top up before the 28 days, and the validity period will extend to three months.

There are no unlimited data options in Turkey for mobile phone SIMs. The most data we were able to buy at a time was 70GB, but this included all sorts of add-ons we didn’t want. We stuck to topping up with the specific data-only packs, so we weren’t paying for services we didn’t need.

Good to know: Every time we purchased a Turkish SIM card, we were asked to pay cash. We asked about using a credit card but were told that they were unable to accept non-Turkish cards in store.

Are you planning a road trip in Turkey? Get the best Turkish road trip destinations and places to see/things to do en route + maps and nearby attractions so you don’t miss a thing!

Turkish Telco Operators

Turkey has three big SIM card providers – Turkcell, Turk Telecom and Vodafone Turkey. You’ll find their stores and re-seller shops (where you can top-up) in every town and city across the country.

All three Turkish telecom providers also have an app which is not geo-locked, where you can check usage and add data. We found the app user experience extremely varied.

Some Turkish providers are allowed to set prices for the tourist SIM card at shop level, so you may find you pay more in a tourist area, at Istanbul airport, a transport interchange or at the land border. We found the prices considerably cheaper in out-of-the-way towns and cities, in some cases by as much as 50%.

Good to Know: All the Turkish operators use LTE, which stands for ‘long-term evolution’. Similar to 4g and often referred to as 4.5g, LTE data is transferred faster and with lower latency, making it a better option than regular 4g. Turkey is expected to see 5g become available in mid-2023.

RELATED POST: SIM Cards in Georgia: How to Buy + Best Deals

Tourist Welcome Pack

Price: From 320TRY (£15.30/US$17.15). Expect to pay upwards of 450TRY at the airport or border.

Included: 20GB internet + 200 minutes of calls in Turkey + unlimited messaging via Whatsapp and BiP (their own messaging system).

Top-up: Data is topped up with pre-paid data packages, which cost from 5TRY (25p/30c) per 1GB for a 30GB data pack + minutes, to 10TRY (50p/60c) per 1GB for a smaller 8GB pack. There are over 30 packages available via the app, and you can choose which is most suitable for your needs.

App: The Turkcell app is available in English for both IoS and Android operating systems, the app is user-friendly, and it’s easy to see your data, calls and SMS usage. We were able to top up successfully 90% of the time, with the occasional glitch at the point of payment. Using a different card and/or not agreeing to store the payment information always seemed to resolve this issue.

Coverage: Turkcell is widely considered to have the best mobile network coverage in the country, which is backed up by their network coverage map . We were able to get a strong LTE 4g signal in even the most remote of spots. Think the top of Nemrut Dagi , or Ani right on the Armenian border.

Speed: We were able to upload large video files to YouTube quickly, download high-resolution images easily and stream Netflix.

Good to Know: Turkcell gives away gifts every Wednesday when a gift box icon called salla kazan urges you to shake the phone and win a prize. It’s usually something like 2GB of data free for the next 12 hours or unlimited YouTube for a day. It’s a bit gimmicky, but actually quite helpful!

Vodafone Turkey

Tourist prepaid sim card.

Price: From 350TRY (£16.80/US$18.85). Expect to pay upwards of 500TRY at the airport or border.

Included: 20GB internet + 750 minutes calls in Turkey + 250 local SMS + unlimited Whatsapp.

Top-up: Data is topped up with pre-paid ‘easy packages’, which cost from 6TRY (30p/35c) per 1GB for a 30GB data pack + minutes, to 12TRY (60p/67c) per 1GB for a smaller 7GB pack. There are nine packages available via the app, and you can choose which is most suitable for your needs.

App: Called Yanimda, the app is available in English for both IoS and Android operating systems. We didn’t find this app very user-friendly, and it was hard to navigate. It was impossible to top up using the app, as it required the entry of 4 digits into the CVV2 field, which we all know is only 3 digits, even in Turkey!

Coverage: The Vodafone coverage was not as wide as Turkcell – at one point I had full LTE coverage, and Phil was stuck with the dreaded E!

Speed: We were able to upload large video files to YouTube, download high-resolution images and stream Netflix, but it took an hour to upload one YT video, and streaming tv involved a bit of buffering, dependent on location.

Good to Know: According to speedtest.net Turkey ranks 66th in the world for internet speed, with a median download speed of 28.72mbps and a median upload speed of 12.27mbps.

Turk Telekom

Price: The only operator with a fixed price for a tourist SIM.

Welcome 25 : 25GB data + 750 minutes in Turkey + 750 local SMS Price: 85TRY (£4.10/US$4.60)

Welcome 50 : 50GB data + 1000 minutes in Turkey + 1000 local SMS Price: 85TRY (£7.90/US$8.85)

Welcome 75 : 75GB data + 750 minutes in Turkey + 750 local SMS Price: 85TRY (£7.90/US$8.85)

Top-up: You can top up with 20GB of data for 50TRY (£2.40/US$2.70)

App: Called Türk Telekom Online İşlemler, the app does not have the option to change languages. Even though Turk Telecom offers the cheapest data, not being able to top up using the app made using their SIM cards for the duration of our 90-day stay a non-starter.

Coverage: Turk Telekom’s coverage is pretty weak in comparison to their competitors. They do offer 5,000 wifi hotspots around the country, but we would only recommend them if you’re planning to visit the popular tourist areas and attractions. They’re not a good choice if you’re planning to go off the beaten path in Turkey.

Speed: We were able to upload large video files to YouTube but it was a slow process. Successful downloading of high-resolution images and streaming Netflix was very location dependent.

Using a VPN in Turkey

Turkey’s government has been ramping up its internet censorship and surveillance regime for years, and currently, almost 350,000 websites are blocked in Turkey. You’ll need an effective VPN for Turkey to access the open internet, avoid government internet monitoring and stream tv from your home country.

While technically using a VPN is legal in Turkey, the government has blocked many VPN providers. We recommend NordVPN as they offer obfuscated servers, meaning not only can you disguise your IP address at the receiving end, you can disguise it in Turkey too, meaning you can use NordVPN without detection.

We used NordVPN on our phones and Macbooks for the duration of our three-month stay, meaning we could catch up with Netflix and Amazon Prime, manage personal finances and access lots of websites we wouldn’t have been able to otherwise, like YouTube .

You need to organise this before you travel, as yep, you guessed it, NordVPN is a blocked website!

Using an eSIM in Turkey

An eSIM is a virtual SIM, which usually provides data only. The benefits of eSIMs are multiple;

• An eSIM works in your phone in conjunction with your normal SIM – you can move between using one or the other, meaning you can keep your usual number.
• You buy your eSIM online, making them extremely convenient.
• eSIM providers work with lots of networks, meaning you’ll connect to the best one wherever you are.
• An eSIM can cover multiple locations and not tie you to one country. Think the whole of Europe, Asia or North America – how simple would that be?
• No data roaming fees – you know the costs upfront.
• You can organise your eSIM at home and activate it on arrival.
• These data-only SIM cards mean you’re not paying for minutes and texts you don’t need and won’t use.

The only downside is that you have to pay for the convenience, and the per GB cost is high in comparison to local prices. 1GB of data in Turkey with popular eSIM provider Airalo costs £4/US$4.50, in comparison to £2.50/US$2.80 for 1GB of Turkcell top-up data.

Good to Know: Your device needs to be unlocked. e-SIMs don’t work with all mobile devices – you can check whether your phone is compatible here .

Price: £19 to £87 / US$19 to US$99

Included: From five days to 90 days of unlimited data. You cannot tether or hotspot using these plans.

How: Buy online and receive a QR code (so you need a second device or someone with you) to scan, and you’re good to go.

RELATED POST: Holafly eSIM Review: The Best Unlimited eSIM for Travel?

Price: £4 to £16 / US$4.50 to US$18

Included: From 1GB to 10GB of data, with all but the smallest pack valid for 30 days. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot.

How: Buy online and receive a QR code (so you need a second device or someone with you) to scan, and you’re good to go. Use code IZZY9131 to get US$3 discount on your order.

RELATED POST: Airalo Review: The Best eSIM Card for Travel?

Price: £7 to £24 / US$9 to US$30

Included: From 3GB to 20GB of data, valid from 7 to 30 days. You can use this Europe travel eSIM to tether and hotspot. Also included is a VPN (only if using an iPhone) but you may struggle to use this in Turkey.

Top-Up: At the end of the unlimited period, just buy another pack in the app for your existing eSIM.

How: Buy online and add automatically, no need for a QR code of second device, but you do need internet. Use code Gap24 to get €3 dicsount.

RELATED POST: Yesim Review: The Best eSIM Option for Europe?

Price: 18.50 to £50 / US$20 to US$54

Included: From 1GB to 5GB of data valid for 7 days for the smallest data pack and 30 days for the larger packs. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot, and there are top-up options available via the Nomad app.

How: Buy online and receive a QR code (so you need a second device or someone with you) to scan, and you’re good to go. Use code IZZY47KJ to get US$3 discount on your order.

RELATED POST: Nomad eSIM: The Best eSIM for Europe?

Price: £1 to £54 / US$1.50 to US$75

Included: From 1GB to 20GB of data, with all but the smallest two packs valid for 30 days. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot. BreatheSIM packages cover areas rather than countries, so in the Turkey eSIM, the whole of Europe is covered.

How: Buy online and make some changes to your settings (explained very clearly on their website) and the eSIM will activate automatically once you connect to a network in a country covered by the bundle.

Price: £9 to £71 / US$10 to US$80

Included: From 3GB to 20GB of data valid for 28 days, and three unlimited eSIMs valid for 7, 15 or 28 days. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot, but the unlimited data plans have a fair usage policy of 2GB of data per day, after which data usage is barred.

Order a Turkish SIM Card Online

If you like to be organised and want to slip that SIM into place as soon as you arrive, then ordering a Turkish SIM online for delivery to your home or workplace is a great option. Remember that your phone must be unlocked to use a replacement SIM like this.

Travel SIM World

Price: £35.60 / US$39.90

Included: 6GB of data, no calls or SMS. Valid for 15 days. Tethering and hotpot enabled. It is not possible to top up this SIM card.

How: Buy your personal SIM card for Turkey and get it delivered to 120+ countries. Prepare your device and check your settings. Arrive at your destination, insert your SIM card and start browsing.

Orange Holiday World

Price: £44.50 / US$49.90

Included: 10GB of data, no calls or SMS. Valid for 14 days. Tethering and hotpot enabled. Various top-up options are available.

Portable WiFi Device for Turkey

A portable wifi device or portable hotspot means you can keep your number, and tether or hotspot to the device, wherever you are. A pocket wifi device like this operates like a router at home, meaning more than one device can be connected simultaneously.

Instead of connecting to your internet service provider, the wifi device uses cloud SIM technology, meaning you don’t need to buy a SIM card because it’s already included.

GlocalMe devices usually come pre-loaded with a few GB of data, and then you can buy more via their app or online. GlocalMe offers a variety of packs from one-day passes for £3.60/US$4, to an 8GB 30-day pack for £40/US$45.

Just register your device online or in the app and purchase data packs for immediate mobile internet connectivity.

GlocalMe Duoturbo Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router

GlocalMe UPP 4G Mobile WiFi Router

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Mobile data in Turkey for tourists in 2023

Mobile service from local providers is not cheap, and you can pay even more if you buy a SIM card in a popular tourist destination. Turkish mobile service providers do not offer fixed prices for the pre-paid plans available to visitors to the country, so the prices vary greatly depending on where you buy a plan.

If you are in the country only for a few days and don't need a lot of mobile data, it's cheaper to use your existing SIM card and activate roaming.

Local mobile service providers

In 2023, the country has three major providers that offer SIM cards to all tourists: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom (formerly Avea).

If you are going to rent a car to travel around Turkey, it is best to connect to Turkcell. It has maximum coverage and better call quality in remote areas. For a vacation in a major city or tourist region, you can choose any provider.

Where and how to buy a SIM card

On average, SIM cards cost 250-350 Turkish Liras (~€14-19). Don't buy cheap options from unauthorised dealers, it's a scam.

You can connect to a mobile service at the airport on arrival, at a provider’s retail store in town, in large shopping centres, hotels, tourist centres, petrol stations, on the beach, and in other popular places. But... prices will differ for the same plan at different places.

You can buy the cheapest SIM cards far from popular tourist destinations. The authorised retail stores in town offer the best prices, while those at the airport, hotel, train station, and beach offer the highest prices.

You will need your ID or passport to buy a SIM card. 

Most salespeople in large telecom retail stores speak English. And if you have trouble communicating, you can use Google Translator. Wi-Fi is free in most telecom retail stores.

If you did NOT buy your smartphone in Turkey, you can use Turkish mobile service for 120 days only. After this period, local mobile service will be locked for your phone. 

You can unlock it by paying a tax of 6,091 Turkish Liras (~€215). This rule does not apply to a SIM card with enabled roaming.

Plans for tourists

If you are staying for a long time or plan to use lots of mobile data, it is best to buy a local SIM card with a suitable plan.

Only pre-paid plans are available for tourists.

This provider has the maximum coverage: 2G is available nationwide, 3G in 95% of the country, and 4G in all major cities. Turkcell is ideal for travelling in a rental car .

The Tourist Welcome Pack costs 349 Turkish Liras (~€19). The first month of use includes 20 GB and 200 minutes of local calls. Mobile data above the plan is ₺1.8 per 100 KB.

Once you have used up the mobile data or after 30 days of using your SIM card, you can activate a plan that suits you best. 

The price of mobile data per month:

• 4 GB – ₺75 (~€4);
• 6 GB – ₺80 (~€4-5);
• 8 GB – ₺85 (~€5);
• 22 GB – ₺155 (~€9).

Install your provider's app on your smartphone to monitor your data usage, activate new plans, and top up your balance online.

2G is available nationwide (except the desert and the eastern mountains), 3G in all populated places, and 4G in all major cities and popular resorts.

After purchasing a Vodafone SIM card, you must activate a mobile data plan, otherwise you will be charged at the standard rates.

The price is ₺0.02 per 100 KB.

A SIM card with the starter plan (Turist Kolay Paketi) costs 300-350 Turkish Liras (~€16-19). It can be activated only once and is valid for 28 days. It includes 20 GB, 750 minutes, and 1,000 local SMS.

Once the plan has expired or when all the mobile data has been used up, you can buy another plan.

• 5 GB – ₺74 (~€4);
• 10 GB – ₺84 (~€5);
• 15 GB – ₺94 (~€6).

Turk Telekom

Although this provider has the smallest number of users, the quality of mobile service is good. 

You will need to buy a Turk Telekom SIM card and activate a suitable plan.

SIM cards cost from 250 Turkish Liras (~€14). 

Plans per week:

• 5 GB – ₺45 (~€3);
• 10 GB – ₺55 (~€3);
• 15 GB – ₺70 (~€4).

Plans per month:

• 1 GB – ₺29 (~€2);
• 3 GB – ₺45 (~€3);
• 4 GB – ₺59 (~€3-4).

Free internet in Turkey

Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport, in many cafés, restaurants, shopping centres, and even at some large beaches. Hotels, on the other hand, often offer free internet only in the lobby.

To connect to the free network, you will need a phone number to receive a text message with your password.

So, you will need a local SIM card or your national SIM with SMS roaming.

How to save mobile data when travelling

• Download the video in advance in the free Wi-Fi area.
• You can also download maps for your navigator to use offline.
• Disable automatic photo and video upload to your cloud storage.

Rent a car in Turkey

If you want to travel around this beautiful country by car, you can book a rental car in advance directly on our website. A rental agent will deliver it to the right place at the right time.

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Home > Turkey Tourist SIM Card Options 

Turkey Tourist SIM Card Options 

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Here are your Turkey tourist SIM card options while you’re on vacation in Türkiye. I have covered telecomms providers and an eSIM option to help you save time and money in Turkey.

Regarding finding places while you are on vacation in Türkiye, Google Maps, taxi apps, and other apps are invaluable, and you need the Internet to access them! Before traveling to any country , you must figure out your SIM card options, and in Türkiye, a plan must be made before you arrive. 

If you’re heading there soon, there are several options for tourism SIM cards in Turkey ( we love these eSIMs the best ); some come at a great price, too. The other good news is that excellent internet coverage is widespread in Turkey, so you’ll have no issues connecting no matter where you are.

Let’s take a look at the major companies offering tourist SIM cards and eSIM cards in Turkey and what I recommend you take.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Vodafone Turkey Tourist SIM Card 

If you’re already a Vodafone customer at home, you might feel more secure opting for the same company overseas. In that case, check if they do any packages for existing customers. If not, or if you’re not a customer in the first place, Vodafone offers several packages for tourists visiting Turkey .

You’ll find Vodafone shops in all big towns and cities and also in the major airports .

To register, you head online and register for your SIM or eSIM. When you arrive, head to the nearest Vodafone store (often found in the airport) and pick up your SIM – you can activate it immediately. You’ll also be given a tourist pack with free data.

The SIM is prepaid, so you don’t have to worry about running up a bill. Different packages range from 20GB to 70GB, including 250 SMS, 750 minutes, and free WhatsApp. Some packages offer free access to popular social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Your SIM will remain active for up to 90 days as long as credit is on it. Prices depend upon the package you choose, but expect to pay no more than around 35 euros at the most.

Turkcell Turkey Tourist SIM Card 

Turkcell is one of Turkey’s biggest phone providers, and you’ll find stores literally everywhere, including at the airport. The company offers several SIM card options for tourists; however, the most popular package offers 20GB of data and is valid for 30 days. You will also receive 200 minutes of talk time and free WhatsApp access.

Expect to pay around 12 euros for a package, but there are different options, so if you ask for more data, you will expect to pay a little more.

To purchase your SIM, head to the nearest Turkcell store.

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Turk telekom tourist sim card .

Another popular option is Turk Telekom, which offers SIM cards for tourists to use during their stay. Packages vary between 25-75GB, depending upon what you need, and last for 15-28 days, depending on which package you choose.

You will also receive between 750-1500 minutes and free, unlimited WhatsApp access.

Prices range between 5-10 euros, and you can purchase your SIM at your nearest TurkTelekom store. As with Turkcell, you will find these shops everywhere, including at the airport.

eSIM With Airalo

I recommend this quick and easy solution. Use an e-SIM in Turkey, which you can have downloaded and all ready to use when you arrive in Türkiye. This is ideal if you have little time and you don’t want to mess around trying to find a store to purchase a SIM.

Head to this website and choose the country you’re heading to. Obviously, you’ll select Turkey in this case, but you can also get a global SIM card if you plan to travel to other places. You can opt for packages between 1GB and 20GB; validity varies between 7 to 30 days, depending on your desired package. The only issue here is that you don’t get calling credit, but that may not be an issue if you use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Telegram.

Once you’ve chosen your package, you install and activate your app, and you’re good to go.

We recommend one of these eSIM options.

What is an esim.

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a small chip that is built into electronic devices such as smartphones and smartwatches. The eSIM functions similarly to a traditional SIM card, but it is already integrated into the device’s hardware instead of being removable. Essentially, an eSIM allows you to connect to cellular networks without physically inserting a SIM card into your device. It can store multiple carrier profiles simultaneously, and switching between carriers can be done with just a few taps on your device screen. 

Why You Should Use An eSIM

The use of eSIMs has several benefits that make them an attractive option for travel. One key advantage is their convenience – since the eSIM is built into your device rather than being a physical card that needs to be inserted and removed, it’s much easier to switch between different carriers without having to fiddle around with tiny pieces of plastic. This can be especially useful if you travel internationally and want to switch to a local carrier for better coverage or lower rates. Another benefit is increased security – because the eSIM is essentially just software running on your device, it’s much harder for someone else to clone or steal your SIM card information. Finally, using an eSIM can sometimes save you money in the long run by allowing you to take advantage of special deals and discounts from carriers that are only available through digital channels like apps or websites.

In addition, there are a few other eSIMs you can choose, which are slightly lesser known yet still very useful when you’re traveling.

• OneSimCard:  also known as eSIM World – Charges $0.25 per MB of data, $0.45 per minute worldwide, and free to receive calls and texts. WhatsApp can be used for free
• Holafly: this service doesn’t allow calls or SMS, but you can use data. Charges are $19 for unlimited use for 5 days, $27 for unlimited use for 7 days, $34 for 10 days, and $47 for 15 days
• MOGO eSim: this is another data-only SIM. Charges are $2.50 for 300MB over 3 days, $6 for 1GB over 15 days, $11 for 2GB over 10 days, $30 for 5GB over 30 days, and $55 for 10GB over 30 days
• Flexiroam: another data-only card with various options. You can use 1GB over 3 days for $4.50 or over 8 days for $5. Opt for 3GB over eight days for $12.50, 7GB over 15 days for $24.50, or a huge 50GB over 90 days for $100

Is It A Good Idea to Get a Prepaid SIM Card or eSIM In Turkey?

Yes! Turkey is huge, meaning there are countless things to see and do. You might find yourself in a city and then decide that you want to eat a specific type of food; you’ll automatically reach for Google, right? That’s all fine and dandy if you have an Internet connection, but if not? Well, you’re stuck.

Having access to your phone during your travels is useful on many levels, not least from a safety point of view. You’ll be able to get to different places with much more ease, thanks to Google Maps; check the weather and avoid a downpour while also being able to update your friends and family with your travels. If you book private tours or a driver, you can also call them and avoid any mishaps or confusion.

It makes life so much easier.

Of course, you might have a contract back home with your phone provider, and they say that you can use your phone overseas. If that’s what they say, you can, but check the small print. You might have a data limit when traveling, which is super-easy to use up quickly, and there may be extra charges you’re unaware of.

But most importantly, having a tourist sim card in Turkey means additional safety. Not only so you can call emergency services, but so you can look up directions when you’re getting lost, you can download maps and GPS tools.

What About Pocket WiFi In Turkey

As you can see, some eSIMs don’t allow for calls or texts, so you might find that pocket WiFi offers better value for money or better convenience at least. This device acts as a mobile hotspot, and you connect your phone to it to access data.

This is especially useful if you’re traveling in a group or as a family, as you can connect multiple devices to the same hotspot.

The only downside of this is that pocket WiFi is that it’s not available to rent or buy everywhere, and you might find it more expensive, depending on what you’re looking for.

You can usually rent these devices from most major airports, and you’ll pay a flat fee, depending on how long you’ll use it, before dropping it back at the airport when you depart.

Some touristic resorts also offer pocket WiFi devices, so it’s simply a case of researching before you visit your specific location.

Extra Tips To Bear In Mind

There’s no doubt that a SIM is a great option when visiting Turkey, but there are a few extra tips to add to our chat. That way, you’ll get the best value for money and always be connected.

Avoid Buying Sims At The Airport

If you have no option, go for it, but you will find you end up paying a lot more than if you bought your SIM from a store or online.

Check Prices Before You Visit

The prices mentioned in this guide are approximate; remember that prices often fluctuate, so double-check before you visit to ensure you have the most up-to-date prices to hand.

Ask The Store To Fix Everything For You

If you’re going to get your SIM from a store, make sure everything is working before you leave. The assistant can quickly fix it all for you, and you won’t end up having to go back the next day, wasting precious time during your visit.

Know How To Top Up

Your SIM will come with a small card that will have a few emergency numbers on, and it will also tell you how to top up if you need to – keep this handy!

Don’t Take The Sim Out Until You’re Done

Don’t be tempted to put your home SIM in your phone to check messages etc. If you do this, you might find that your Turkish SIM is locked. The SIM card will come with a PIN, so make sure you know this if you do need to remove it.

Make Use Of WhatsApp

If your SIM doesn’t allow SMS, or you opt for an eSIM that only offers data, WhatsApp is your friend. Many SIMS enable free use of WhatsApp, too, so that’s something to look out for.

Questions To Ask Before Choosing a SIM Card Provider

You do have a few options regarding SIM card providers, so it’s useful to know their unique selling points and how easy they are to use.

Ask yourself these questions before making a choice:

How do you register the SIM?

For most large companies, this isn’t a difficult process. You’ll have to show your passport; the setup should be quick.

How is the SIM activated?

If you head into a Vodafone, Turkcell, or Turk Telekom store, the shop assistant will do all this for you, so you won’t have to worry. However, if you buy a SIM card over the Internet or choose an e-SIM, ensure you know the activation process in advance.

How do you top up your data?

While most plans offer more than enough data, you might find that you use it all (YouTube, we’re looking at you), and you need to top up. So, how do you do that? Most large SIM providers in Turkey will allow you to top up in store (they’re found in all large towns and cities) or from a convenience store for a small extra charge.

Where can you get a SIM card in Turkey?

For the easiest process, it’s best to head to a Turkcell, Turk Telekom, or Vodafone store and ask the assistant to set it up for you. However, you can also buy them online before you arrive and pick them up in store, or you can purchase them from the airport. If you choose this option, know that it will cost more.

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Sights of Elektrostal, Moscow region

Table of contents:, history of the city, park of culture and leisure, historical and art museum, october cultural center, kristall ice palace, memorial complex, museum and exhibition complex.

2024 Author : Harold Hamphrey | [email protected] . Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

In the Moscow region there is a small cozy town Elektrostal. Its sights for the most part have no historical value due to the fact that the city has a relatively small history. But for a visiting tourist or city dweller, they will be of interest. There is something to see, where to go to have an exciting leisure time.

Today the population of the city is 158 thousand people. Until the beginning of the 20th century there were several small workers' settlements here. After the opening of the electrometallurgical and equipment factories, the place began to be called the natural boundary of Calm. The construction of the railway made this settlement accessible, and workers and families flocked here to earn money. In 1925, the station was named Elektrostal, and the rapid increase in population allowed the village to receive the status of a city.

The founder of the city is a prominent Russian industrialist Nikolai Vtorov. It was he who opened the plant here, creating, in fact, a city-forming enterprise that is still operating. In Soviet times, it was a closed facility, and it was not easy to get to work here.

Today Elektrostal is a promising industrial city with a great future and a heroic past. It bears the proud name "City of Military and Labor Glory".

You can learn about the sights of Elektrostal with descriptions and photos here. There are places for walking, outdoor activities and cultural development.

Those who come to the city by train are met by a monument to the metallurgist. It was installed in November 2017 for the 100th anniversary of the Elektrostal plant. The attraction is made in the style of constructivism. The monument quickly won the love of the townspeople, because this city is supported by ordinary workers.

Elektrost altsy and the founding father of the plant, Nikolai Vtorov, are honored. In 2002, a monument was opened in honor of him, which became a landmark of the city of Elektrostal. The bronze sculpture is installed on the site where once stood a monument to the leader of the world proletariat, V. I. Lenin. Times change, characters change. Today, the plant, founded a century ago, is the largest in Russia. Vtorov himself, whose fortune was estimated at 60 million rubles in gold, according to Forbes magazine, was the owner of the largest capital at the beginning of the century. He was a banker, an industrialist, an entrepreneur, a man of action.

The monument was erected byinitiative of the townspeople who wished to perpetuate the monument to the great man.

One of the popular places for spending weekends and evenings among citizens and guests of the city is the Park of Culture and Leisure. Here you can ride attractions for children and adults, play slot machines, rollerblade or bike. The park is divided into two zones. Fans of unhurried walks in the fresh air make a promenade on the Quiet Alley, and those who prefer outdoor activities flock to the Entertainment Alley. The park has a summer stage, where concerts and cafes are regularly held.

Until 1999, there was no central museum among the attractions of Elektrostal in the Moscow Region. The expositions were exhibited in schools, the house of culture, in factory museums. The city was closed, so there was no large influx of tourists and visitors. The appearance of the historical and art museum made it possible for residents and guests of the city to learn a lot of useful information about their native land, the formation of the production process, and the difficult years of the war. The exposition consists of paintings by local artists, historical artifacts, household items, documents, books and much more. The collection is updated regularly. It also hosts outdoor exhibitions, which are always popular with the townspeople.

One of the main attractions of Elektrostal, the photo of which is available to almost every resident or visitor, is the Main Alley. On herpassers-by like to stroll along shady paths, townspeople rest by the fountain after a hard shift at the plant. Flower beds are the decoration of the alley. In 2006, a flower festival was held here for the first time, which has become traditional. Each enterprise of the city and private individuals give residents a real composition of fresh flowers, which pleases with bright colors all summer long. A riot of colors, aromas and a flight of fantasy reigns here. Walking through the park, you can see Snow White with a basket, a bright well, a multi-tiered cake made from fresh flowers, hearts of lovers or a fabulous house. It is almost impossible not to take a photo against the background of these compositions.

There is a cultural center in the city. It hosts performances by local creative teams and visiting stars, performances and circus performances.

In 1971, the ice palace "Crystal" was opened in the city. Almost immediately, a children's and youth hockey team was organized, which gained sports fame. This is the home sports arena for the Elektrostal hockey team. Matches of different levels are held on the ice.

There are sections for children who go in for hockey or figure skating. Citizens come here with their families to cheer for their favorite team or go ice skating.

Elektrostal is a city with a heroic past. During the war years, more than 12 thousand citizens came to the recruiting station and went to the front to defend their homeland. Almost 4 thousand of them did not return from the battle. To these heroesdedicated to the memorial complex with the inextinguishable Eternal Flame, opened in 1968

But the electricians took part in the war in Afghanistan and Chechnya. By decision of the city authorities, their memory is also immortalized in the memorial complex.

It has become a good tradition for newlyweds to lay flowers at this monument.

In 1999, a museum and exhibition complex was opened in the city, where, in addition to the exhibition hall, there are numerous circles for children, classes for young people, and a creative workshop. Various festivals, exhibitions, city holidays and other events are held within the walls and on the territory of the complex, which attract many spectators.

Listing the sights of Elektrostal, it is impossible not to mention the temples. There are several of them in the city: the church of St. John of Kronstadt, St. Andrew's Church, the hospital church of St. Panteleimon. Another new church is being built. In appearance, the temples look ancient, monumental, in the Novgorod style. But they were all built at the end of the 20th century.

Let there be no ancient artifacts among the sights of Elektrostal. But on the other hand, all of them are connected with the history of the city, with everyday work and military exploits of ordinary residents.

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Moscow metro to be more tourist-friendly

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

For many years now, Moscow has lagged behind St. Petersburg when it comes to making life easy for tourists, especially where getting around the city is concerned. Whereas the northern capital installed English-language maps, signs and information points throughout its subway system in the late 2000s, the Russian capital’s metro remained a serious challenge for foreign visitors to navigate.

Recent visitors to Moscow may have noticed some signs that change is afoot, however. In many stations of the Moscow subway, signs have appeared on the floor – with large lettering in Russian and English – indicating the direction to follow in order to change lines. Previously, foreign visitors using the Moscow metro had to rely solely upon deciphering the Russian-language signs hanging from the ceilings.

Student volunteers help tourists find their way in Moscow

However, this new solution has a significant drawback. “The floor navigation is visible only to a small stream of people – fewer than three people per meter. During peak hours, this navigation will simply not be noticed,” said Konstantin Trofimenko, Director of the Center for Urban Transportation Studies.

One of the biggest problems for tourists in the Russian capital remains the absence of English translations of the names of subway stations in the station vestibules and on platforms. The Department of Transportation in Moscow has not commented yet as to when this problem will be solved. However, Latin transliterations of station names can already be found in the subway cars themselves.

Finding the right exit

At four of the central stations – Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Lubyanka and Kuznetsky Most – the city authorities have now installed colorful stands at the exits with schematic diagrams of the station’s concourse and surrounding area, which provide information about the main attractions and infrastructural facilities.

The schematic diagrams are the work of British specialists from the City ID and Billings Jackson Design firms, who have already implemented successful projects in New York and London.

According to Alexei Novichkov, expert at the Design Laboratory at the Higher School of Economics, the design of these information booths raises no objections: The color solutions, font, layout and icons are consistent with international standards.

However, the stands do have some shortcomings. “Many questions are raised about the fact that the developers of these maps did not apply orientation to the north, and have provided layouts of the surrounding areas with respect to the exits,” says Novichkov. “A system like that is used for road navigators, but most of the ‘paper’ guides and maps are oriented strictly to north. The subway map is also oriented to north, so people may become confused.”

Muscovites and foreign visitors are generally positive about these navigation elements, with most of them citing the numbered exits from the subway as the most useful feature.

The fact is that many Moscow subway stations have several exits. One of the busiest central stations of the Moscow subway in particular, Kitay-Gorod, has more than a dozen exits. Previously, these exits were differentiated from each other only with signs in Russian referring to the names of streets and places of interest to which they led – making it easy for tourists and those with poor navigation skills to get confused.

Now, when making an appointment to meet a friend, instead of struggling to find the right spot when they tell you: “I'll meet you at the exit to Solyanka Street,” you can just propose to meet under a specific exit number.

“I’ve lived in Moscow for seven years,” says Angelika, a designer from Voronezh, “but I still don’t always know where to go to find the place I need, so the new schematic diagrams will be very useful. Previously, some subway stations had maps, but not with so much detail.”

Teething problems

Foreigners, meanwhile, focus their attention on other elements. “It is good that the new information boards have QR-codes, which can be ‘read’ by smartphones,” says Florentina, a writer from Vienna. But there are also shortcomings. “The English font of the information on posters and in the captions to theaters and museums is too small – you have to come very close to see it well,” she says.

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Florentina was also dissatisfied with the fact that such posters are not provided at all subway stations: “When I was trying to find Tsaritsyno Park (a museum and reserve in the south of Moscow) at a subway station with the same name, it turned out to be quite difficult,” she says.

“There are no maps with landmarks for other areas, such as those already in the city center. There were no clear pointers in the English language, and the passers-by I met did not speak in English, so they could not help me,” she adds.

Officials say that the navigation system is gradually being redeveloped and improved. According to Darya Chuvasheva, a press representative for the Department of Transport of Moscow, the introduction of a unified navigation system will take place in stages.

“By the end of 2014, the system will first appear on the first subway stations on the Circle Line. By the end of 2015, we plan to install the system at all major stopping points, subway stations and transport interchange hubs,” says Chuvasheva.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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