What to do with leftover Turkish lira before leaving Istanbul?
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: today
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: today
TL;DR
Best to save leftover lira for your next trip since airport prices are inflated, but you can spend cash lira at duty-free shops. Note that currency exchange points in Turkey often only accept cash, not cards.
At currency exchange points and some shops in Turkey, card payment isn't always accepted — cash lira is often required instead.
Don't rush to spend leftover lira at the airport — prices there are inflated. If you do need to use them, duty-free shops accept cash lira payments.
It's better to save leftover lira for a future trip to Turkey — around 200 lira can come in handy next time. Keep in mind that if your return flight departs from a different airport, you won't be able to spend them before leaving.