Gaziantep Turkey Travel Guide
Local SIM cards are available. Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom are the main providers. Wi-Wi-fi is common in hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
Turkish is the official language. English might be spoken in tourist areas, but it is not universally common.
PTT (Posta ve Telgraf Teşkilatı) is the national postal service. Branches are available city-wide for sending letters, postcards, and all-inclusive packages.
Banks are open Monday to Friday. ATMs are widely available throughout the city at local banks, shopping malls, and on main streets for cash withdrawals.
Carry a small notebook and pen. Writing down numbers or simple phrases overcomes language barriers effectively.
Interacting with Gaziantep's culture respectfully deepens your travel experience.
A handshake is a common greeting for introductions. Between close friends, a kiss on both cheeks (starting with the right) is a common greeting.
Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) for religious sites. Women must cover their heads. General public casual dress is fine, but avoid overly revealing clothing.
Generally acceptable for vistas and monuments. Always get consent before taking photos of people, especially women and children. Be discreet in religious settings.
Wait to be seated in more official restaurants. Water and bread are often brought to the table automatically.
Avoid public displays of affection. Do not criticize Atatürk or the Turkish Republic. Approach politics and religious matters with caution.
Information for travelers with mobility challenges or particular needs.
Gaziantep's infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is developing. Modern buildings, shopping malls, and some newer hotels are accessible.
The Zeugma Mosaic Museum is generally accessible with ramps and elevators. Newer municipal buses and trams may have wheelchair access.
Limited specialized services are widely available for travelers with disabilities. Guide dogs may not be widely recognized or permitted everywhere.
Get in touch with local tourism offices or disability support organizations in Turkey for specific, up-to-date facts concerning accessibility in Gaziantep.
For specific accessibility needs, research and plan well in advance to ensure a comfortable and accessible travel experience in Gaziantep.
Cultural norms for respectful engagement.
Learn and use simple Turkish phrases. Even a few words show respect. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or in more conservative areas.
Remove your shoes before entering mosques. Women must cover their heads. Maintain silence and show consideration, especially during prayer times.
Respect privacy. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly women and kids. Be mindful in religious or sensitive areas.
Your travel choices directly benefit Gaziantep's local economy. Opt for practices that directly benefit the community.
Donate through established local charities or reputable NGOs.
Avoid engaging in activities that exploit local people or animals.
Support fair trade and ethically sourced products.
Choose locally-owned hotels and restaurants. This directly supports the Gaziantep community plus aids preserve its unique character.
