How to get a tourist SIM card in Istanbul: prices, carriers, options

According to one report, tourist packages at Turkish carrier stores, including a physical SIM and data allowance, start at about TRY 2,500. For moderate data use, a physical M8 SIM with data added as needed may cost less.

For 10–15 GB of data, the M8 option is recommended because services should work without restrictions. With T2, some services may not work, and one report says speeds drop sharply after the first 1 GB.

If you only need a local +90 number without data, Turkish SIM cards can be purchased at Istanbul airport on arrival using your passport.

For a week-long trip needing data, eSIM plans offer around 500 MB/day for $3–4 for a few days. If your phone doesn't support eSIM, a physical Turkish SIM card is the alternative.

For phones without eSIM support, one option is an eSIM adapter (around $29) that lets you use eSIM plans on a regular phone. Combined with a trip.com plan (20 GB for 15 days at $5–7), this can be cost-effective for longer stays.

Turk Telekom is one of the main carriers for tourists. A 10 GB data package costs around $15, with the SIM card itself sold separately (price may vary). The M8 device is available for approximately $4.50.