Can foreign UnionPay bank cards be used at shops and restaurants in Turkey?
Based on 2 discussions with 2 participants · Last activity: 24 days ago
TL;DR
Recent traveler reports suggest UnionPay should not be your only payment method in Turkey: it was declined at Migros and McDonald’s in Nova Mall. There are also reports of Rosselkhozbank cards having issues after sanctions announced on July 24.
What the community said
Following the July 24 sanctions, travelers have reported that Rosselkhozbank cards may no longer work in Turkey. Bring Turkish-lira cash or a backup card from another bank.
25 days ago Rosselkhozbank, July 24 sanctions
A UnionPay card was declined at the Migros supermarket in Nova Mall. Even where contactless payment is available, do not treat UnionPay as a guaranteed option.
34 days ago Migros, Nova Mall
UnionPay was also declined at McDonald’s in Nova Mall. For everyday expenses such as fast food and small purchases, carry Turkish lira cash or an alternative international card.
34 days ago McDonald’s, Nova Mall