Eskisehir Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Connectivity

Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Türk Telekom are main providers. Purchase SIM cards at airports or official stores together with your passport. Tourist SIM packages offer good value.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, shopping malls.
Mobile Data: Local SIM cards give good 4G/5G coverage.
Portable Wi-Fi: Consider Solis Wi-Fi for consistent personal connection.

Language & Translation

Turkish (Türkçe) is the official language. English is used by hotel staff, in tourist-oriented shops, and by many younger people.

Translation Tools

Google Translate app (download Turkish for offline use).
Carry a small phrasebook with frequent expressions.
Consider language learning with Rosetta Stone.

Turkish Phrases

A few words will go a long way in showing respect and connecting with locals.

Common Greetings

Merhaba (MEHR-hah-bah) - Hello
Teşekkür ederim (teh-shek-KEWR eh-dehr-eem) - Thank you
Lütfen (LEWT-fen) - Please

Essentials

Knowing these phrases simplifies daily interactions.

Practical Phrases

Evet (EH-vet) - Yes
Hayır (HAH-yur) - No
Ne kadar? (NEH kah-DAR) - How much?

Postal Services & Extra Tips

Sending Mail

PTT (Posta ve Telgraf Teşkilatı) is the national postal service.
Find branches by the yellow and dark blue PTT sign.
Available for postcards, letters, and deals.
Digital options: Airalo eSIM for worldwide connectivity.

Dining & Directions

Afiyet olsun (ah-fee-YET ohl-SOON) - Enjoy your meal
Su (SOO) - Water
Tuvalet nerede? (too-vah-LET NEH-reh-deh) - How do i get to the toilet?
Using local phrases shows appreciation.

Stay Connected

An ESIM from Airalo or portable Wi-Fi from Solis Wi-Fi provides uninterrupted internet.

Business Hours & Services

Shops & Malls

Shops: 09:00/10:FROM 12 to 19:00/20:00 (Mon-Sat), later in the heart of the city. Malls: 10:BETWEEN 12 and 22:00 (7 days).

Restaurants & Cafes

Open from early morning for breakfast until late evening (23:00 or later).

Museums

Typically 09:00/10:00 to 17:00/18:00. Many close on Mondays; check specific websites.

Banking & ATMs

Banks: 09:00 to 17:00 (Mon-Fri), closed weekends/holidays. ATMs: Widely available 24/7 throughout the city.

Money Management

Major credit cards are widely broadly accepted.
Inform your bank of international travel.
Currency exchange available at banks and exchange offices.

Public Holidays

Be aware of holidays, as they could influence opening hours and public services. Check specific calendars.

Dates

Republic Day (Oct 29th): A national holiday.
Ramadan Feast & Sacrifice Feast: Major religious holidays.
Other Public Holidays: New Year's Day, National Sovereignty and Children's Day, Labor Day, etc.

Travel & Seasonal Information

Airport Services

Airport lounges available with Priority Pass.
Flight delay compensation available from Compensair.
Ensure you have necessary travel documents.

Seasonal Considerations

Smaller attractions may have limited hours or close in winter.
Outdoor activities can be weather-dependent.
Always confirm opening times for specific attractions.

Plan Wisely

Look at local schedules for holidays and seasonal variations that may influence your visit.

Cultural Etiquette

General Conduct

Handshakes are common greetings. Modest dress shows respect, especially in religious settings.

Dining Customs

Wait for everyone to be served before eating.
Tipping (5-10%) is customary in sit-down restaurants.
Avoid blowing your nose at the table.

Social Norms

Photography is generally acceptable in public areas, but ask permission for individuals.

Sensitive Subjects

Refrain from talking about on politics or national symbols.
Showing affection in public is usually not common.
Pointing with a finger can be considered impolite; use your whole hand.

Gender & Inclusivity

Turkish society is generally conservative. Gender equality is legally recognized, but traditional roles persist. Women traveling alone are generally safe.

LGBTQ+ Travel

Homosexuality is not illegal, but not widely accepted.
Public displays of same-sex affection may lead to harassment.
Discretion is advised, specifically outside of university areas.

Accessibility Information

Eskişehir functions to improve accessibility, yet older areas like Odunpazarı can be difficult because of cobbled streets and hills. Sidewalk quality is not consistent.

Accessible Features

Newer buildings, malls, and modern public transport (trams/buses) offer accessible ramps.
Modern parks and museums often have accessible pathways and elevators.
Contact places in advance for specific needs.

Important Cultural Notes

Cultural Sensitivity

Avoid public criticism of national figures.
Respect local traditions.
Wear conservative clothing at religious sites.

Safety Advice

Be aware of your surroundings.
Keep valuables secure.
In emergencies, contact local authorities.

Further Accessibility & Resources

Visual & Hearing Impairments

English information may be limited.
Translation apps and Turkish phrasebooks are helpful.
Guide dogs may not be universally permitted; verify in advance.

Information Resources

Specific resources for Eskişehir accessibility may be limited.
Contact hotels or local tourism offices directly for confirmations.
General disability travel organizations might offer broad guidance.

Respectful Travel

Adherence to local manners and customs enriches your journey and dealings with the community.

Money & Airport Logistics

Smooth financial transactions and airport processes contribute to stress-free travel.

Currency & Exchange

The local money is the Turkish Lira (TL). Exchange workplaces and banks are available for currency exchange. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Financial Tips

ATMs are widespread and available 24/7.
Notify your bank about your travel plans.
Keep smaller denominations for local purchases.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is customary in restaurants (5-10%). For taxi drivers, give the change as a tip. Small tips for hotel the workers are appreciated.

Service Industries

Restaurants: 5-10% of the bill.
Cafes: Round up to the nearest lira.
Hotel Porters/Housekeeping: Small amounts (e.g., 5-10 TL).

Airport Lounge Access

Enhance your airport experience before or after flights for convenience and coziness.

Priority Pass

Offers access to independent airport lounges worldwide. Learn more.

Comforts

Enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and Wi-Fi in a relaxed environment.

Relaxation

Escape the busy terminals in a quiet and comfortable setting.

Financial Security

Secure your valuable items and always pay attention to what's around you, particularly in busy places.

Eskisehir Travel Tips