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Best Turkey Sim Card For Tourists in 2024

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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If you’re visiting Turkey anytime soon, you’re going to want to stay connected. This is why you should consider getting yourself a Turkey sim card for tourists.

Whether you need data plans so you can share photos with those back home, you want to stream Netflix whilst camping, or you have business calls you need to make – there are many reasons why you need the best Turkish sim card when visiting the country.

But what are the best Turkish sim cards for tourists and how much will it cost? Is it worth getting a sim card or should you look towards eSIM deals? These are all great questions we’ll be answering in this guide to the best Turkey Sim Cards for tourists.

Our Top Pick

Airalo E-Sim Cards

If you need a SIM card but don’t have a lot of time, then our top pick for tourist SIM cards in Turkey is the e-Sim packages from Airalo .

You can choose from as little as 1GB for 7 days up to 20 GB for 30 days packages .

The prices are the most affordable and the most transparent we have found compared to local companies and it’s quick and easy to connect. You can read our full review of Airalo in Turkey here .

Why Buy a Prepaid Tourist Sim Card in Turkey?

There are many reasons why you should consider buying a sim card, and not just so you can share Instagram stories.

There are many network providers these days that allow you to use your home network abroad. T-Mobile and 3 are two examples of companies that allow their contract users to use data abroad, but there’s always a catch.

Some network providers only allow their users to use 2G abroad. To put that into perspective for you, it will take you 5 minutes to load a webpage. Other network providers only allow you to use 500MB. This can be used up in a few days and is not suitable for more than a weekend in Istanbul .

So if you want to stay connected, or you need calls and texts while you’re away, the solution is to get a tourist sim card in Turkey.

Getting a Turkish sim card means you have access to fast, reliable data since you are connected to the country’s network. Having fast data is extremely helpful for using things like Google Maps, and Google Translate, and looking up information about attractions or how to get from A to B (such as how to get to Ephesus from Istanbul ).

A local sim card also gives you calls and texts, which is extremely useful when you want to book tours and need to keep in contact with the guide or driver.

But most importantly, having a tourist sim card in Turkey means additional safety. Not only so you can call emergency services, but so you can look up directions when you’re getting lost, you can download maps and GPS tools.

Are you reading this from Turkey? Maybe you need a VPN!

If you’re already in Turkey, there is one thing you absolutely NEED: a reliable VPN .

You may find some of your favorite websites and apps are blocked in Turkey , such as popular hotel site booking.com

A VPN allows you to get passed this ruling and enables you to browse these sites without any hassle, and it’s completely legal.

We use Express VPN when we’re in Turkey and we’d recommend it to anyone. It’s affordable, quick, and easy to use.

Things To Consider Before Buying a Turkish Sim Card

Before you go browsing through the airport service counters, you need to know what to look for in a Turkish sim card. Here are some things you need to consider before making a purchase.

What is the registration process?

Usually, the registration process is quite simple. When we bought our Turkish sim card in Istanbul, we only had to present our passport for them to register our details to the sim card.

How do you activate the sim?

If you’re buying your sim card from a shop, the assistant will set it all up for you and you’ll likely be connected before you’ve even left the store. If you’re buying a sim card online or opting for an E-Sim, does the activation process seem simple? Will you have access to the tech support if you cannot figure it out?

What if you need to top up?

You should make sure to ask how to top up your sim card when purchasing it. If you buy your sim card from a store, they will usually tell you where you can top up such as from kiosks, convenience stores, or coming back to one of their stores.

You are usually given a card with your sim card that has these details on it so do not throw this away.

Where to Get Sim Cards in Turkey

The good news is there are many ways you can buy a sim card in Turkey, so you don’t need to worry about finding a place. Here are three main ways to buy a Turkish sim card…

At The Airport

The most obvious place to get a sim card is at the international airports (Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir etc). However, we don’t recommend this. When we landed at Istanbul airport, we compared deals to what we found online and they were three times more expensive at the airport.

We’re not sure why, but we can only put it down to “airport prices.” Either the sales assistant thought we don’t know any better, or they just charge more for being in the airport.

Unless the airport is missing free WiFi or you absolutely need a sim card before you leave the airport, we don’t recommend this option.

📖 Read more: Is Turkey Expensive?

There are many stores across Turkey where you can get tourist sim cards in Turkey. The main providers are:

• Turk Telekom

You will find several shops for each of these providers in all major cities, as well as travel company shops offering sim cards as well.

We recommend you visit the official stores for each provider, such as the Vodafone store, Telecom store, or Turk Telekom stores, as they will have the best deal. You won’t have any issues finding a store no matter which area of Turkey you’re visiting, even in small towns like Fethiye.

However, you should scout around different stores . Turkcell does not share its prices online, and we found we were quoted different prices at different stores. You should be sure to visit a few different stores to scout out prices and get the best deal.

If you’re planning ahead and you have the time to wait for delivery, you can always get an e-sim card online before you visit.

Sometimes you can arrange for the sim to be delivered to your home address, or you can arrange to pick it up when you arrive at the airport. At present, there is no option to do this with the local sim cards in Turkey.

Best Turkish Sim Card Providers for Tourists

Now you know what to look for in a Turkish sim card, here is an overview of each plan available for tourists in Turkey. You can purchase these plans online before you visit, or you can pick them up from any of the network provider stores in Turkey.

Note : due to the fluctuation of the Turkish Lira, Turkcell, and Vodafone have removed their prices from their website and prices vary from store to store. As of August 8th, 2023, we have seen prices anywhere from $25 USD to $28 USD, and you should scout around for the best deal. In the below table, I have included the price in USD so you can check the exchange rate on the day of purchase. We try to update these prices regularly, but cannot always keep up with the moving exchange rates. These prices were given to us by members of staff in the network’s official stores in Turkey in August 2023.

Prepaid Tourist Sim Cards for Turkey

*Scroll left-right to view more

Data Coverage Map

Perhaps the biggest decider on which sim card is best for you is determined by the data coverage. While many Turkish sim cards connect you across the country, there are some patches that coverage cannot reach.

Here is a map of each provider’s data coverage.

Turkcell Data Coverage

As you can see from this data coverage map for Turkcell, the map is washed in red. This means that most of the country is connected to 4G+, even in rural areas. You’ll find no problems finding data coverage wherever you visit, as even Cappadocia has 4G and 4G+.

If you are planning a road trip and will pass through some of these rural areas, this is the best network provider for you in terms of data coverage. There are not many areas that have 5G with Turkcell.

Telekom Data Coverage

As you can see from the map above, Telekom has pretty good data coverage in the cities with most areas seeing 4G+ network service. In the region of Cappadocia, you can see there are 3G, 4G and some spots with 4G+ in most towns. In Istanbul, it is possible to connect to 5G.

There are a lot of rural areas in Turkey that don’t have connectivity according to this data coverage map, but these areas don’t tend to be on the main tourist trail. For tourists, Telekom provides decent data coverage, but if you are visiting Cappadocia you might find some areas a bit spotty.

Vodafone Data Coverage

Vodafone has similar connectivity as Telekom, but with few areas connecting to 5G. If you are sticking to the main tourist areas and not planning a road trip, the data coverage provided by Vodafone in Turkey will suffice.

e-Sim Cards for Turkey

Another option is to get an eSIM card. These are great for people who don’t have the time to find a sim card shop or you’re not visiting for long enough to make the purchase worth it.

eSIMS work by allowing you to buy flexible data packages without the need to buy a sim card. eSIM companies usually connect you to the local network, as they have deals with the providers who operate there.

They are quick and convenient, especially if you are planning to visit multiple countries on your trip.

Here are some eSIM providers we would recommend:

eSim Cards for Turkey

No calls or SMS

1 GB / 7 Days – $4.50

2 GB / 30 Days – $6.50

3 GB / 30 Days – $8.00

5 GB / 30 Days – $12.00

10 GB / 30 Days – $18.00

20 GB / 30 Days – $26.00

OneSimCard (eSIM World)

$0.25 USD per MB

Free to receive texts and calls

$0.45 per minute to call anywhere in the world

$0.59 per text anywhere in the world

Free Whatsapp

Holafly Turkey

Unlimited data / 5 days – $19.00

Unlimited data / 7 days – $27.00

Unlimited data / 10 days – $34.00

Unlimited data / 15 days – $47.00

Unlimited data / 20 days – $54.00

Unlimited data / 30 days – $64.00

Unlimited data / 60 days – $84.00

Unlimited data / 90 days – $99.00

300MB / 3 Days – $2.50

1GB / 15 Days – $6.00

2GB / 10 Days – $11.00

5GB / 30 Days – $29.90

10GB / 30 Days – $55.00

1GB / 3 Days – $4.50

1GB / 8 Days – $5.00

1GB / 15 Days – $5.50

3GB / 8 Days – $12.50

3GB / 15 Days – $13.50

5GB / 15 Days – $20.00

5GB / 24 Days – $21.50

7GB / 15 Days – $24.50

7GB / 24 Days – $25.00

10GB / 24 Days – $31.00

50GB / 90 Days – $100.00

The TRASST e-SIM Card for Turkey

Unlimited / 3 Days – €16.95

Unlimited / 5 Days – €17.95

Unlimited / 7 Days – €19.95

Unlimited / 14 Days – €26.95

Unlimited / 30 Days – €44.95

Unlimited / 90 Days – €89.95

Prepaid Sim Cards vs Pocket WiFi

If you’re just after a sim card for the data, then you might consider getting a pocket WiFi instead. These are small gadgets that allow you to connect to a mobile hotspot from wherever you are.

If you’re on the beach, simply connect to your pocket WiFi and you can share photos, chat with friends, and browse the internet just as you would with data. They also connect you to the whole of Turkey, and not just limit you to a region or city.

You can also connect to more than one device, so if you’re traveling as a family and everyone needs mobile internet, this could be better valued than getting everyone a sim card.

Pocket WiFi’s are usually expensive to buy, but fortunately, you can rent one for your trip and pick them up and drop them off at the airport. The fee is determined by how long you need it for.

Here’s where you can pick up pocket WiFis in Turkey…

Tips for Buying a Turkish Sim Card

Before you run off to buy your sim card, I have a few more words of advice for you.

• Don’t buy the sim card from the airport. The deals we were offered were a lot more expensive than in the city. We’re not sure why, but they were working out to be around 3x the price.
• Scout around for the best deals. Unfortunately, some companies do not advertise their prices and we found that the price varied depending on which shop we visited. Go to a few and compare prices.
• Remember the exchange rate for the Lira changes dramatically. You may find that the price of a sim card changes from week to week, this is because the exchange rate for the Lira is always changing. You should have an idea of prices in USD and then convert it to Lira on the day. In fact, many stores in Turkey are now accepting Euros or British Sterling instead, so if you’re visiting from Europe, be sure to carry some of Euros as well.
• Keep your receipt and the packaging. The little card that the sim card comes in usually has details on how to top up and emergency numbers, as well as your sim card’s pin code, so don’t throw this away.
• Don’t leave the store until you’re up and running. If there’s a problem and you’ve left, you need to go back and get it fixed. This adds more time and effort. It should connect you within minutes, but sometimes it can take up to 15 minutes to an hour. So just wait around until you’re good to go.
• Don’t remove your sim card unless you’re finished with it. The sim card is locked with a pin number (found on the card that the sim card comes in), which you need to enter to be able to open your mobile phone. If you forget your pin, you’ll be unable to use your phone if you take the sim card out and put it back in again.

FAQs About Turkey Sim Cards for Tourists

Here’s what people usually ask us about sim cards for tourists in Turkey…

Can tourists get a SIM card in Turkey?

Yes, tourists only need to show their passports to get a sim card anywhere in Turkey.

What is the best SIM card to use in Turkey?

In our opinion, the Telekom 40 GB data plan is the best value deal for tourists. If you want good connectivity, the Turkcell 20 GB plan has the best data across the country.

How much is the SIM card in Turkey?

This is dependent on the provider and the plan. You can find plans for as little as $2.50 USD, to as much as $40 USD. The most popular options are around $25 USD.

Can I use WhatsApp in Turkey?

Yes, you can use Whatsapp in Turkey.

The Verdict: Best Sim Card in Turkey for Tourists

As you can see there are a lot of choices to choose from when picking the best Turkish sim card for tourists. When we visited, we chose a Turkcell sim card for tourists because we planned to stay longer than a month and were traveling to more rural areas.

We were quite happy with Turkcell and found we always had connectivity, even when hiking in Cappadocia. We also found it easy to top up by visiting the store and asking for assistance. Their staff spoke English and were very helpful.

At the time, we believed Turkcell to be the best value for money. You get decent network coverage and 40GB lasts a long time, plus the price makes it a pretty good deal for those who need a lot of data. You can stream movies on long-distance buses for that amount.

However, we have started using the Airalo E-Sim Card because they are more transparent with their prices, and they also connect to the Vodafone Turkey AND Turk Telekom networks. If you only need data and no calls, this is the cheapest and most convenient option.

However, if your phone doesn’t support E-Sim Cards, then Telekom is the cheapest option, just be sure to shop around for the best price.

So in short, for the best data coverage, go for Turkcell, for the best-priced data plan, go for Telekom.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

32 thoughts on “Best Turkey Sim Card For Tourists in 2024”

Hiya Sean & Louisa,

This is an awesome explanation. ‘Short’, straightforward and easy to understand. My family and I will be visiting Antalya and Istanbul in the summer (I know, 🥵 😅). And this has given us enough infos in term of connectivity (our flight lands 10:00pm). Keep on writing, I enjoy your writing. Best, Yuni

Hi, thank you for the in-depth guide on data/sim in Turkey. For the E-sim, I can’t seem to find the same deal of 20gb+200mins at 13USD on the onesimcard website? Can you advise how to get this done? Thank you

Hi Sel, I think you are referring to the OneSim, eSim card which sadly doesn’t have that deal anymore. The best deal for eSIMs (I think) is the Airlo eSim, which gives you 10gb of data for 30 days, for $18.00 USD. You can see the Airlo deals here .

hello, the prepaid sim card prices you posted, are they the prices at the airport or the normal price? thank you

From our experience, no the prepaid sim prices at the airport were a lot higher. I can’t remember exactly the price now because it was a few months since I last visited Turkey, but it was definitely cheaper to buy a sim card in the city.

Arrived at Antalya Airport yesterday (04/03/2023) sims cards were on sale for over 1100tl (€55), total rip off! The hotel I’m staying at was offering them for €35, as we arrived after 9pm local time most of the shops were closed so will head into town and see what the prices are, surely will be cheaper. I will update this side with my findings.

Hi Habs, thanks for letting us know about the prices you saw! It’s a shame that it’s so much more expensive at Antalya airport as well. I hope you are able to find a better deal by going into the shops today. We found the shops were the cheapest option in Istanbul.

Hello. We are planning to arrive at the Istanbul airport on May 1 and will need GPS from there as we will be driving around Turkey for 18 days as far East as Cappadocia. How do we avoid buying the Turkcell or Telekom SIM at the airport? We live in the US. Thank you.

It will probably be better for you to get an e-Sim card if that’s the case. You can find great deals on Airlo.

If you go to app store and get Maps.me (Green square with suit case in it) you can then through WIFI search the world or in your case Turkey and as you home in it will prompt to download the map. Once you have done this you dont need a phone signal just use like Google maps. Just second check the route because sometimes it tries to be too clever and take short cuts that no longer there. Also make sure you download all the maps there may be more than 1for Turkey. Load now and practice locally to experience it; you can drop pins find walking trails etc, etc at no cost.

Hi Mark, thank you for the advice you shared. MapsMe is a great app and is really helpful for navigating around Turkey, especially if you want to do some hiking.

I went to Turkcell in the Mall of Istanbul today and asked for the Tourist Welcome Pack. The guy who helped me said the pack would cost me 800 TRL in stead of the advertised 165 TRL. Total rip off!!! Do they really think tourists are stupid?????

Hi Adriaan, I’m sorry to hear this happened to you. There are unfortunately some shops that try to take advantage of tourists, though we have not been to the shop you mentioned. I hope you were able to find a better deal at another store.

Today at Izmir city centre I went to some Turkcell and Vodafone shops and they only had one option for tourists with 20GB and it cost around 600 TRL. I went to a few different shops, all similar prices. And they didn’t have any official flyer or poster with the values, you just need to trust what the guy tells you. A bit sketchy, I find! No official info at the store. I was wondering where can I find these deals of 169 TRL?

Hi Marina, unfortunately, Turkcell and Vodafone have stopped advertising their prices online and we are always hearing of people being quoted different amounts from different shops. If you are sure you want to use their sim package, the only way to find the best deal is to go to different stores and compare prices. It’s not convenient and can be very frustrating for the consumer. At present, only Telekom are advertising their prices online and it’s much cheaper than 600 TL. Their coverage is not as good but it should be good enough if you just visit the tourist places: https://www.turktelekom.com.tr/tt-en/Pages/prepaid-tourist-sim-turkey.aspx

Thank you for your reply. I see the advertised price on the Turk Telekom website as 85 TL for the 25GB package. But today I went to the Turk Telekom shop in Izmir centre and they told me the price is 558 TL. I still can’t understand what’s happening… are all the shops trying to rip me off, or have the sim card prices gone up insanely in the last few months? Are the shops even allowed to sell at a different price than the one advertised online?

Hi Marina, I don’t see the package you mentioned on the Turkcell website, perhaps you were looking at the prepaid sim rather than the Tourist Sim Card. A prepaid sim is for locals and cannot be bought by tourists. Sometime in early 2023, Turkcell and Vodafone removed their prices from their website for this because the Lira is always fluctuating. The exchange rate in March 2023 is at an all-time low which is suspected to be due to the earthquakes . I believe the prices you are seeing are a result of the exchange rate dropping. As of this time, it seems the most affordable way to get data in Turkey as a tourist is to choose an eSim.

What about BIM sim card. Prepaid

We didn’t include BIM as we have not used BIMcell or have any experience with them. I see that you can get them from the BIM supermarkets, which is handy.

Hello, if I take off the sim cart and leave turkey when I come back to Turkey could I use it again?

Usually with these tourist sim cards, they are registered for a period of time only. Once that period is over, you need to purchase another one. If you had a 30 day sim card, left Turkey, and came back within the 30 days, then it should work fine. If you leave for a longer period of time, then you would need to get another tourist sim when you return back to Turkey.

Thanks very much guys! Extremely helpful Nick

Thanks for this, very clear and just what I needed.

I see Turk Telekom prices have gone up on their website (hardly surprising, given Turkish inflation and the exchange rate) but at least they are still quoting them and they look good value.

Is there any additional cost on top of this to get the physical prepaid SIM that you then activate the Prepaid Tourist Plan on?

Hi Peter, thanks for reaching out. There are no additional costs on top of the prepaid tourist plan. The fee includes the data package and the sim card combined.

Hi guys, great article and very helpful indeed. I had normally used roaming on my phone on previous visits. Since the UK left the EU mobile providers have cheekily removed the roaming to Turkey and charging a lot now which won’t be feasible for longer visits. With a view of getting a tourist sim I just sent a message to Vodafone Turkey as the price was not listed on their website. It is just wrong to advertise a package without the price clearly. They came back with a quote of 562 TL for a 20GB plan for 28 days. Whereas the T&Cs link states a different price. Very misleading and deceptive. Anyways looking at more options. Will share if I find something better. At this point Turk Telekom and Bimcell are looking better if only they honour the advertised prices.

Update – Turk Telekom customer services quoted 473 TL for a blank SIM card and 190 for 50GB data for 28 days. 663 TL Total. This again is extremely misleading as no mention of the extortionate charge for a blank SIM card on Turk Telekom website. They only advertise 110 TL for 20GB and 190 TL for 50GB plans.

Hi Rick, thanks for the update. This is surprising to hear as we used Telekom sim cards and were not charged a Sim Card price. It seems that times have changed.

Looks that way. I’m off to Kusadasi in a couple of weeks. Will update you with latest my findings 🙂

Thank you for your clear and informative article. Regarding esim card Airalo, I’m traveling with a family of 5. Some are not very good in technology or don’t have credit card. How can I help them to buy the e-card? A bit silly question but I wonder can I buy multiple ones and then transfer to their phone or they need to buy it with their phone?

Hi Mer, Airalo have some great tutorials on their Youtube Channel that show you how to activate the plans and set it up. You can view the Youtube Channel here.

Hi guys, check out esim-turkey.com, they have unlimited data volume for any budget, like 16,95€ for three days to 89,95€ for 90 days. I happened to come across the link for them.

Hi Star, thank you for passing this on. The deals on this site look to be the same as the TRASST e-sim deals, however I don’t know that this site you suggest is reputable as it doesn’t specify the company. We would recommend booking through Trasst instead, as this is a reputable company and has the same prices on their official website.

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Turkey SIM Card for Tourists

Traveling to Turkey soon? Read our ultimate Guide to buying a SIM card for Tourists in Turkey below and get the best option at the lowest price!

If you are planning a trip to Istanbul or another city in Turkey, and want to stay connected, then you should consider buying a prepaid SIM card for Turkey.

On this page, we will tell you all you need to know about SIM cards for Tourists in Turkey. You will find helpful information about operators and which SIM card or eSIM card to buy online or on site, as well as their cost . 

Let’s start! 

Do I really need a Turkey SIM Card for Istanbul?

If your visit to Istanbul is longer than 4–5 days , buying a local SIM card is definitely the best option for you to stay in touch with family and friends while having good phone coverage and access to data.  

But even  if your stay is shorter , it might be a wise idea to opt for a prepaid SIM card instead of depending on free Wi-Fi or renting a pocket Wi-Fi router. 

Internet is charged a lot more in Turkey if you have a foreign SIM card, which does not include Turkey in their internet package.

So we recommend you to get a local SIM card either way. But how to get it easily, without waiting in line, and at the best price?

Book your SIM Card online before your trip to Turkey

What are your options of booking a SIM card or an internet device online to use it in Turkey during your trip?

For travelers who only need mobile internet and no phone calls or SMS for their Istanbul vacation, we have the perfect solution: the e-SIM card for Turkey. It is one of the most economical and practical way of getting internet in Istanbul as a foreigner.

See below our 2 top e-SIM recommendations for Istanbul, as well as another alternative, the Pocket Wi-Fi:

1. The Holafly Prepaid e-SIM Card for Istanbul

Another recommendation is Holafly's easy-to-use prepaid e-SIM card .

Holafly offers a  digital e-SIM card with unlimited mobile data service  with maximum speed coverage (4GLTE). 

This way you don’t have to worry about roaming costs when traveling and enjoy unlimited internet as if you were at home.  

Let's see the prices and conditions of these cards:

How does Holafly work?

• Choose the desired number of days  you want and   purchase the Holafly prepaid e-SIM card here .  You will immediately receive a QR code containing the e-SIM Card by email.
• Scan the QR code one day before your departure.
• Turn off your local provider’s cellular data.
• Set your phone's options so that your mobile phone uses Holafly's internet.
• Activate your QR code after you arrive in Turkey and use your Holafly SIM card during your stay.   

Compatibly:  Before purchasing the   Holafly SIM card, make sure that your mobile phone is compatible with the Holafly service. It is available for the following cell phones: iPhone SE, XS et XS Max, XR, 11, 11 Pro et 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini, 13,13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini / Google Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a, / Samsung S22, S20, Galaxy Z Flip, Note 20 Ultra, Fold LTE, / Motorola Razr 2019

The easy eSIM for Turkey by Holafly ( recommended ) :

Here are the prices and conditions for the eSIM by Holafly. The ones in red are the most popular ones picked by travelers.

• 1 Day Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 6€)
• 2 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 9 €)
• 3 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 12 € )
• 4 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 15 € )
• 5 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 19 € )
• 6 Days  Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 23 € )
• 7 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 2 7€ )
• 8 Days Unlimited Data in Turkey (approx. 2 9€ )

There are options to book a higher number of days. For further rates and information on the various offers and 5% discount , click on this link:

2. Rent a Pocket Wifi in Istanbul

You can easily  rent a Pocket Wifi Devise for the time you are in Istanbul  and access internet through it anytime. It is a device that connects you to internet without limitation and through several device (phone and computer). The access to internet is fast and covered anywhere in Turkey thanks to the support of Turkcell, which is the best phone company in Turkey.

The process to rent a pocket wifi is very easy:

• Book your device on  through this link
• Get your device delivered to you  at your hotel or directly at the airport anytime you want
• Use the device(s)  according to the guideline during your trip
• The company will pick up the device  when and where you want before you leave the country

And voilà! Now you have internet during your travel to Turkey. For more information, click the button below.

Where to buy Turkey SIM Card in Istanbul

1. at istanbul airport or sabiha gökcen airport.

You can pre-order online and then pick it up at the airport, or have it delivered to your home, Airbnb or any other address.

Or find stores selling prepaid SIM cards in the arrival terminal of Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökcen Airport . One advantage is that the staff speaks English, and since the store is tailored to tourists, it will be easy to find a deal suited to your needs. However, you will usually find   more expensive offers in the stores at the airport . Additionally, there are always long queues. For this reason, buying your Turkey SIM card there is not advisable .

An easy and cheap option  is to  use the SIM card reservation service .  Simply make an early reservation and get your Turkey SIM card delivered to your hotel by a local authorised dealer. Local communications specialists are always there to help you with any questions you may have. As prices change almost weekly, you can also  get the latest prices from an local specialist via WhatsApp.

2. In the City

There are stores practically everywhere in Istanbul where you can buy a prepaid SIM card. In addition to the official branches of Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom, there are also electronic shops, phone stores, and kiosks that sell local SIM cards of these GSM operators. 

Please be aware that the branches of the Turkish GSM operators as well as the resellers may set their own prices for the SIM card. For this reason, prices vary from store to store , and can even be as high as 200 TL.  

Cost for Turkey SIM Cards for Tourists

1. Turkcell

Turkcell provides a special package for travelers, the “Tourist Welcome Pack”.

This package will be assigned to customers who buy a prepaid Turkcell SIM card with a foreign passport.

• What is included:  A SIM card with 20 GB data + 200 minutes of local calls + unlimited messaging via Whatsapp &BiP. As a bonus, you get special discounts at restaurants, hotels, car rental, and more.  
• Validity: Turkcell’s “Tourist Welcome Pack” is valid for 30 days. After 3 months, the SIM card will be deactivated.
• Visit the official Turkcell partner website for online ordering and delivery before you arrive.
• These prices can go up to €47 at the stores at the airport.

2. Vodafone Turkey 

The mobile provider Vodafone Turkey offers a special tourist package for prepaid SIM card. It is called "Welcome to Turkey Pack".

• What is included:  Vodafone's   Prepaid   Tourist SIM Card consists of 20 GB data + unlimited WhatsApp + 750 minutes of local calls + 1000 SMS 
• Validity: The tariff is valid for 28 days.  You can use your Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for a total of  90 days . After that, it will be deactivated.
• For more information and the most up-to-date prices, please cross check with the official Vodafone website. 
• These prices can go up to 8 90 TL at the airport.

3. Turk Telekom

Türk Telekom's special SIM card package for tourists is called "Hos geldin" (Welcome). 

• What is included: The Hosgeldin 25 GB package includes 25 GB + 750 minutes of local calls + 750 SMS 
• Validity:  The Turk Telekom prepaid SIM Card is valid for 28 days.
• Check the official Turk Telekom website for detailed information. (only in Turkish) 
• These prices can go up to 850 TL at the airport .

With all tariffs, it is possible to recharge it when it is used up.

• Need an airport transfer from Istanbul or Sabiha Gökcen Airport? See all your airport transfer options and book your Istanbul airport transfer  here . 

GSM Operators in Turkey 

• There are three mobile operators in Turkey: Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom.
• Turkcell is the largest mobile provider and the leading GSM operator in Turkey . In terms of good network coverage and internet speed in Turkey, it is the best provider, especially in smaller cities or remote areas
• All three operators offer a variety of prepaid SIM Card packages to choose from, some of them even have special SIM cards for tourists.
• Remember that prepaid SIM cards in Turkey are valid for a maximum of 120 days.
• The country code for Turkey is +90

Bottom Line

Regardless of which SIM card and provider you ultimately choose, where you buy the SIM card plays a key role . There are dozens of providers selling Turkish SIM cards throughout the city, as well as at both Istanbul airports.

Generally, you will find better deals in the city, but since the branches of Turkish GSM operators as well as resellers can set their own prices for the SIM card, the cost of a Turkish prepaid SIM card varies from store to store, leaving you exposed to a confusing jungle of prices.

For this reason, we recommend either to book a very affordable online service through Holafly eSIM service or ask a question through the form present on this page above.

For more amazing pictures and tips about Istanbul, follow  our official Instagram account @istanbul.tourist.information

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SIM cards in Turkey FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Which SIM card is the best for tourists in Turkey?

The best SIM card for your holiday in Turkey is “Tourist Welcome Pack” from  Turkcell.  Since   Turkcell has the best mobile network coverage in Turkey and a package deal tailored precisely to the needs of tourists, we think it is the best SIM card to use as a tourist in Turkey.

We particularly like the fact that the SIM card is already part of the package. This makes it much easier for tourists, because the fees for prepaid SIM cards vary from store to store in Turkey, which is why tourists often pay much more than locals. Another bonus is unlimited Whatsapp and the special benefits offered.

Of course, there are many more options, and ultimately it depends on your individual needs. Our local communications specialists will be happy to help you choose the right SIM card for your purposes. Just contact them via Whatsapp to get all the information and current prices, or to reserve your SIM card in advance and pick it up when you arrive in Istanbul.

How much is a SIM card in Turkey?

Since the branches of the Turkish GSM operators as well as the resellers can set their own prices for the SIM card, the cost of a prepaid SIM card varies from shop to shop and depending on the GSM operator. You can expect it to cost around 100-200 TL. Remember that you will often need to pay an activation fee and purchase an additional one-month data package.

Feel free to contact our local communication specialists via our contact form to find out the current rates at the airport and in the city.

Where to buy a Turkish SIM card?

You can buy your prepaid SIM card for Turkey either in the city or at the arrival floor at Istanbul or Sabiha Gökcen airport. 

There are stores practically everywhere in Istanbul where you can buy a prepaid SIM card. In addition to the official branches of Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom, there are also electronic shops, phone stores, and kiosks that sell local SIM cards of these GSM operators. Please note that prices vary from store to store, as the branches of the Turkish GSM operators as well as resellers may set their own prices for the SIM card.

To help travelers with the confusing price jungle of Turkey SIM Cards, we offer travelers our  SIM card reservation service.  If you have any questions or want to know the current prices, you can ask our local communication specialists at our booth at Istanbul Airport or in advance via Whatsapp. Reserving your SIM card online allows you to pick it up  as soon as you arrive, without having to wait in line.

Can I buy a SIM card at Istanbul Airport?

Yes, there are branches of all three Turkish GSM operators as well as mobile stores at the arrival floor of Istanbul Airport that sell local SIM cards. Note, however, that the prices for a prepaid SIM card in the stores at the airport are higher than in the city.

Plan your trip to Istanbul with experts

Let us help you design your trip to Istanbul according to your unique situation and desires. With our experience of 25 years and our network, we will get you the best prices for hotels and activities .

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Mobil internette daha güvende olun. Üstelik her ay, günlük 1GB internet hediye!

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Online'a Özel Paket Değişikliği İndirim Kampanyası

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Tourist Welcome Pack - Turist Tanışma Paketi

Kategori: Hazır Kart - Yeni Turkcell'liler

Türkiye'de tatil bambaşka! Hemen Tourist Welcome Pack alın, tatiliniz boyunca doya doya internete bağlanın, size özel ek avantajlardan yararlanın. Hattınız, 20GB internet ve yurt içinde her yöne 200 dakika hediye ile açılacak.

• Detaylı Bilgi
• Sıkça Sorulan Sorular
• Benzer Kampanyalar

Daha Fazla Bilgi

• To get the details of the Tourist Welcome Pack in English please click.
• Tourist Welcome Pack alarak Turkcell faturasıza gelen müşterilerimizin hatları 30 gün boyunca kullanabilecekleri 20 GB internet, 200dk yurt içinde her yöne konuşma, BiP uygulamasında ve whatsapp uygulamasında geçerli sınırsız mesajlaşma faydası ile açılacaktır.
• Tourist Welcome Pack ile hat alan müşterilerimize 03.01.2024 itibarıyla tavsiye edilen son kullanıcı fiyatı 1.100TL'dir.
• 04 Kasım 2022 itibarıyla, bu kampanyadan yararlanan müşterilerimiz, ayrıca hatlarının açılışını takip eden 90 gün boyunca hatlarına aylık tek seferde 85 TL ve üstü TL yüklemelerinde veya 85TL ve üstü tutarda Pos kanalından paket satın aldıkları aylarda hatlarına o ay için 28 gün boyunca geçerli 10GB internet hediyesi yüklenecektir. Hediye internet faydasından 30 günde maksimum 1 kez, kampanya süresi olan 90 gün boyunca maksimum 2 kez faydalanabilecektir. 
• 24.05.2021 Tarihi itibarıyla Suriye hariç diğer tüm yabancı uyruklu müşterilerin hatları Tourist Welcome Pack tanışma seti ile açılacaktır.
• Faydalar üçüncü şahıslara transfer edilemez. Paket kapsamındaki ses, SMS ve internetin ticari amaçlı kötüye kullanımından şüphelenilmesi durumunda Turkcell ilgili numaraları kampanyadan çıkarmak, kampanya hakkını kısıtlama hakkını saklı tutar.
• 30 Gün içinde kullanılmayan kampanya kapsamında sunulan faydalar bir sonraki döneme devretmez. Paket kapsamındaki faydalar yurtdışında kullanılamaz. Özel servis numaraları paket kapsamında aranamaz.
• 30 Mart 2021 tarihi itibarıyla kampanya altında sunulan paketin internet paket aşım tarifesinin ücretlendirmesi Ön Ödemeli Paket Aşım Tarifesi üzerinden yapılacaktır.
• Paket içeriğinde sunulan dakikaların ücretlendirme periyodu 60sn, internetin ücretlendirme periyodu 100kb’tır.
• Paket içeriğindeki internetin tamamı kullanıldıktan sonra müşterilerimizin ek bir paketi yok ise paket süresi sonuna kadar müşterilerimizin internet kullanımları  Ön Ödemeli Paket Aşım Tarifesi  üzerinden; paket süresi bittikten sonra müşterilerimizin paketi yenilenmediyse ve ek paketleri yok ise internet kullanımları  Standart İnternet Tarifesi  üzerinden ücretlendirilir.

Diğer Satın Alma Seçenekleri

Avantaj Tanışma Seti Kampanyası

Turkcell'den yeni hat almak şimdi çok kolay!

Bol GB Tanışma Seti Kampanyası

Turkcell’den yeni bir ön ödemeli hat almak isteyen bireysel müşterilere, 28 gün boyunca kullanabilecekleri her yöne...

Sponsorlu Hat

Turkcell’den yeni bir Hazır Kart almak artık çok daha kolay, şimdi alın açılış vergilerinizi 12 eşit taksitte ödeyi...

Özet Bilgiler

Kampanya kapsamında verilen faydaların limit bilgileri nelerdir? Kampanya hangi yönlere geçerlidir?

• Tourist Welcome Pack Kampanyasından yararlanan müşterilerimizin hatları, hizmet bedelinin hediyesi olarak 20 GB internet, 200 dk yurt içinde her yöne konuşma, BiP uygulamasında  ve whatsapp uygulamasında geçerli sınırsız mesajlaşma avantajı ile açılacak. Faydalar 30 günlüktür.

Kampanya faydalarını ne zaman kullanmaya başlarım? Aktiflendiğinde bilgilendirme SMS’i gelir mi?

• Hattınız kullanıma açıldıktan kısa bir süre sonra kampanya faydası hattınıza otomatik yüklenecek ve sms ile bilgi verilecektir.

Kimler yararlanabilir?

Tourist Welcome Pack satın alarak, yeni bir hat alıp Hazır Kart’a gelen müşterilerimiz yararlanabilir.

Kampanyaya nasıl katılabilirim?

Tourist Welcome Pack alarak Hazır Kart’a gelen müşterilerimiz yararlanabilir.

Kullanmadığım kampanya faydaları bir sonraki aya devreder mi?

Hayır, kullanılmayan kampanya faydaları 30 gün sonunda silinir.

Kampanyadan kazandığım faydaların kalan miktarı ve geçerlilik süresini nasıl öğrenebilirim?

Kalan yazıp 2200 a ücretsiz göndererek, kampanyadan kalan faydanızı ve geçerlilik süresini öğrenebilirsiniz.

Hattımı başka bir numaraya yönlendirdiğimde kampanya faydalarım geçerli olur mu?

Hayır, geçerli olmaz.

Kampanyadan yararlanacak abone sayısına ilişkin sınır var mı?

Kampanyadan yararlanacak kişi sayısına ilişkin bir sınır yok.

Kampanyayı nasıl İptal ederim?

CANCEL TOURIST PACK yazıp 2200 a göndererek iptal talebinde bulunabilirsiniz.

Numara değişikliği, devir, ödeme tipi değişikliği, numara taşıma, hattın geçici olarak kapatılması ve hat iptal edildiğinde devam eder mi?

Devir, numara taşıma ve ödeme tipi değişikliğinde iptal olur, numara değişikliğinde devam eder.

Konuşma kampanyaları için Özel Servis Numaraları ve 444’lü Aramalar

Özel Servis Numaraları ve 444’lü Aramalarla ilgili detaylı bilgi için lütfen tıklayın . Yurt Dışı Konuşma Avantajı için: Alo Dünya 30 dk paketi ile aynı koşullar geçerlidir tıklayınız.

Kampanya kapsamında kazandığım faydaları başka bir hatta transfer edilebilir miyim?

Hayır, kampanya kapsamında kazandığım faydalar başka bir hatta transfer edilemez.

Tourist Welcome Pack - Turist Tanışma Paketi hizmetimizi almak için lütfen GSM numaranızı ve Turkcell Şifrenizi girerek işleminizi onaylayınız.

ÖN BİLGİLENDİRME

E-posta bilgisi geçerli değil. Lütfen kontrol ediniz.

• HIZLI GİRİŞ
• TURKCELL ŞİFRE
• GSM numaranızı hatalı girdiniz. Lütfen kontrol edip tekrar deneyiniz. GSM numaranızı hatalı girdiniz. Lütfen kontrol edip tekrar deneyiniz.
• Şifreniz en az 6 karakterden oluşur. Lütfen kontrol edip tekrar deneyiniz. Şifreniz en az 6 karakterden oluşur. Lütfen kontrol edip tekrar deneyiniz.
• 20 Karakter Bu alan boş bırakılamaz.
• NUMARAMI HATIRLA

HIZLI GİRİŞ NEDİR

Cep telefonu numarası aracılığıyla sağlanan müşteri kimlik doğrulama servisidir. Telefonunuza gelen doğrulama koduna onay vererek Turkcell uygulamalarına hızlı giriş yapabilirsiniz. Dünya Operatörler Birliği (GSMA) tarafından Mobile Connect adı ile desteklenmektedir.

SIFRE •• •• 2222

Lütfen ön bilgilendirme metnini okuyarak işleminizi onaylayınız.

Bu talebinizle ilgili size gerekli bilgileri aktararak yardımcı olabilmemiz için müşteri temsilcimizle buradan görüşebilirsiniz., bu paket i̇çi̇n hattinizda yeterli̇ baki̇ye bulunmuyor. kredi̇/banka karti i̇le si̇ze özel paketleri̇ almak i̇çi̇n tiklayin. https://dijital.li/iijpw.

Katma Değerli Hizmetler izininiz bulunmamaktadır.

Çıkış yapmak istediğinize emin misiniz?

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Buy Turkcell SIM Cards for Tourists

If you’re planning a vacation in Turkcell and want to stay in touch, getting some Turkcell SIM cards is just the ticket. A SIM card investment simplifies travel to Turkcell. With low prices for data, calls and texts you will not have to pay exorbitant roaming fees from your home service provider. In this article, we will cover all the important steps someone needs to get a prepaid SIM card in Turkcell.

Table of Contents

I. Quick Facts about Turkcell

Turkcell is the clear market leader in Turkey’s telecom industry with the largest subscriber base and network nationwide. Here are some quick facts about this brand:

• Established : 1994
• Branding name : Turkcell
• Services provided : 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE mobile service, fixed broadband, IPTV
• Number of subscribers : Around 36 million (Q3 2022)
• Number of stores : Over 2,500 Turkcell stores and over 45,000 sales points
• C ustomer service : Available via phone, online chat, social media, stores
• Awards : Awarded “Best Mobile Operator of the Year” multiple times at the World Communication Awards

II. Why Turkcell When You’re Exploring Turkey – Coverage and Speed

Turkcell offers excellent coverage and speeds, making it a great choice for exploring Turkey.

1. Turkcell Coverage in Turkey

Turkcell has the best overall coverage in Turkey, covering 98% of the population. It has an extensive 4G LTE network reaching over 95% of the population, plus widespread 3G and 2G coverage. Turkcell’s network reaches all major cities and tourist destinations across the country. So you can stay conveniently connected wherever your travels take you.

2. Turkcell Speed

With an average 4G download speeds of around 30 Mbps, Turkcell provides fast and reliable mobile data throughout Turkey. Its network is well-equipped to handle high usage and congestion in crowded tourist areas. So you can enjoy smooth web browsing, social media, streaming, and more.

In summary, this mobile operator is a good choice for tourists thanks to its extensive high-speed network across Turkey.

III. Turkcell Connectivity Options for Travelers to Turkey

As a tourist visiting Turkey, you have a few options to get connected on Turkcell:

• Turkcell SIM card
• Pocket Wifi

In summary, buying a Turkcell SIM card is the most convenient connectivity option for most travelers to Turkey.

IV. Best Turkcell SIM Card for Tourists & Cost

Turkcell offers several prepaid SIM cards suitable for tourists in Turkey:

Turcell SIM

In short, the ideal Turkcell SIM card option is dependent upon your unique circumstances. The Turkcell SIM Card provides diversified plans for tourists.

V. Does Turkcell Support eSIM in Turkey?

Yes, Turkcell does offer eSIM in Turkey, only for citizens. If your mobile phone supports this technology, you will be able to obtain your new Turkcell numbers as eSIM.

VI. Where can You Buy a Turkcell SIM Card/eSIM?

To make sure you have reliable cellular access during your visit to Turkey, look into obtaining a prepaid SIM from the nation’s leading carrier, Turkcell. Their SIM cards can be bought in the following ways:

1. Where to Buy Turkcell SIM card?

Turkcell prepaid SIM cards are widely available at:

• Turkcell stores – Find them in airports, shopping malls, metro stations.
• Retail stores – Sold at phone shops, supermarkets, kiosks. Look for Turkcell signs.
• Online – Can be delivered to your hotel via websites like TurkeySIMcard.com.

When buying, you’ll need to show your passport. Opt for tourist SIMs that come ready-to-use, if available. Basic usage rates start from 20 TL ($1).

2. Where to Buy Turkcell eSIM in Turkey?

To get Turkcell eSIM as a tourist, your best option is to purchase from an international eSIM provider such as Turkey eSIM from turkeyesim.com.

You can buy directly on website. eSIM profiles are delivered to your phone via email or QR code. Prices start from $5 for 1 GB packages.

Purchasing eSIM online is easier than finding in local stores. Just activate on your phone within minutes! However, check eSIM-compatible devices list before purchasing your own!

VII. How to Activate Turkcell SIM Card/eSIM in Turkey?

1. how to use turkcell sim card in turkey.

You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready:

• Insert the SIM card : Locate the SIM card slot on your device and insert your Turkcell SIM.
• Power on your device : Turn on your phone and wait for it to recognize the new SIM.
• Activate the SIM card : Prepaid tourist SIMs are usually pre-activated. If not, call 333 from your device.
• Set up APN settings : Default APN is ‘internet’ and username/password are ‘turkcell’.
• Check your services : Make a test call and browse the internet to verify connectivity.

That’s all – you can now start using your Turkcell prepaid SIM card in Turkey!

2. How to Activate Turkcell eSIM?

Getting started with a Turkcell eSIM for Turkey is quite easy:

• Install the eSIM : Download the eSIM profile on the provider app or email to your phone. Accept installation prompts.
• Activate the eSIM : Open the app or email link. Follow prompts to activate your Turkcell eSIM plan.
• Set up the eSIM : Select Turkcell eSIM as the cellular plan. Configure settings like data usage alerts.
• Start using the eSIM : Once activated and set up, you can start using Turkcell service on your eSIM.

With a few simple steps, you’ll be set up to use Turkcell hassle-free during your stay in Turkey.

Please check detailed instructions for your device:

• Activate eSIM on iPhone
• Activate eSIM on Samsung
• Activate eSIM on Google Pixel

VIII. Turkey Turkcell Call & SMS Rates

Here are the latest Turkcell prepaid call and SMS rates for Turkey:

Turcell Call & SMS Rates

Rates may be slightly higher for prepaid SIMs. But in general, domestic calls and texts using Turkcell are quite affordable within Turkey.

IX. Useful USSD Codes for Turkcell SIM card/eSIM

Here are some useful USSD codes for checking your Turkcell account balance and more:

• *100# – Check remaining balance
• *123*RECHARGE CODE# – Recharge/top-up your prepaid credit
• *102# – Check data usage
• *111# – Check main account info and last 5 transactions
• *444*4# – Check remaining minutes, messages, data
• *555# – Turkcell customer service

Dial these codes directly on your Turkcell mobile to access account info and services quickly and easily. They work on both physical SIM and eSIM.

X. How to Top-up Turkcell SIM card/eSIM

There are several ways to top-up your Turkcell prepaid credit:

• Online – Recharge via Turkcell website/app using international credit/debit card
• Vouchers – Purchase top-up vouchers from stores and kiosks. Dial *123*CODE# to redeem.
• Stores – Visit Turkcell stores and authorized dealers to recharge in person.
• ATMs – Many ATMs support directly recharging prepaid Turkcell via bank account.

For Turkcell eSIM, the easiest way to top-up or extend your plan is through the eSIM provider’s website/app. Add funds to your wallet and renew data packages with a few clicks.

Auto top-up can be enabled to conveniently recharge your Turkcell account when your balance is low. Overall, keeping your prepaid or eSIM account topped up in Turkey is quick and straightforward.

XI. FAQs about Turkcell in Turkey

Does turkcell offer unlimited data plans.

Yes, Turkcell has unlimited data prepaid plans like Turkcell Maxi Unlimited. There are also unlimited data eSIM options through resellers. Speeds may be throttled after exceeding certain data thresholds.

Can I use Turkcell SIM in North Cyprus?

Yes, Turkcell has good roaming coverage in Northern Cyprus. But you may need to pay roaming fees outside Turkey.

How long is Turkcell SIM card valid for?

Turkcell tourist SIMs are usually valid for 15-90 days depending on plan. You can extend validity by recharging. Regular prepaid SIMs last up to 120 days from last top-up.

Does Turkcell have good coverage in Istanbul?

How can i check turkcell data usage.

You can check your data usage by dialing *102# on your Turkcell mobile or through account management apps/websites.

XII. Final Words

In summary, Turkcell is the top mobile network operator in Turkey making it a great connectivity choice for travelers. With outstanding coverage, fast speeds, and affordable prepaid SIMs, Turkcell connects you across Turkey.

For ultimate convenience, Turkcell eSIM options are also available from international providers. Just purchase a plan, activate online, and enjoy reliable service on the go.

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They all offer a variety of plans, but kind of a little bit more expensive than the similar to those found elsewhere in Europe. Vodafone and Turkcell competes, while Turk Telekom is a smaller company by means of number of customers and infrastructure.

And, according to Turkish law, all SIM cards have to be registered, and can only be purchased with a valid passport . They all offer plans with different amounts of data use.

Which is better value: Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) or Prepaid?

Pay-as-you-go plans.

Pay-as-you-go plans refer to prepaid plans with consumable minutes instead of a non-contract service plan. You purchase minutes and top up as necessary. You need to top up your plan in certain amount of time, which is 180 days for Turkey .

PAYG Good For

• When traveling to other countries where you only need it for a short period of time.
• Looking for the cheapest option
• If you only want to use your phone just for emergencies.

PAYG Disadvantages

• The pay-as-you-go model is not designed for heavy phone users.
• It is likely to be more expensive if you use your phone every day.
• You will get very very less calling and no data/internet usage.
• You’ll need to keep track of your minutes.

Prepaid Plans

Prepaid plans charge you a set amount of money monthly for a specific amount of talk, SMS and data/internet. They do not require a contract (you will need to make a contact in Turkey, just by your valid passport) and you only pay for what you get in advance. If you finish your quota, the phone becomes disconnected from service.

We Highly Recommend These Fantastic Night-time Activities

Prepaid good for.

• When traveling to other countries where you only need it for a short or medium period of time.
• If you are a heavy phone user including internet/data
• Looking for an option including internet/data usage

Prepaid Disadvantages

• The prepaid model is not designed for very less phone users.
• You may get higher per-minute costs when used excessively.
• You’ll need to keep track of your minutes and data.

1. Pay-as-you-go SIM Cards in Istanbul

This is the most practical option. You’ll just asked for a valid passport for contracts. Pay-as-you-go cards can be purchased from any GSM operators’ shop in the city. It would take about 2-3 days to get activated.

With this pay-as-you-go option , you can make and receive calls for 180 days , starting from the day you top up your number. If you don’t add money to your account within this period, than a 90-day period (Semi-Active Period) will start. And you can receive calls, but you can’t make calls, even if you have credits. So you need to top up your line every 180 days.

1.1. What you will get?

Please check turkcell.com.tr and vodafone.com.tr for Packages and Tariffs FAQ

If you need to use data/internet, you will need to buy internet packages. And if so, we recommend you go further with Prepaid SIM Cards . (see below)

1.2. How long can I use my minutes in my package?

You can use your minutes until the end of your period.

1.3. Where you can top?

You can top up your SIM card from the official GSM stores, Post Offices , or online by your credit card . Foreign bank credit cards can only be used if your credit card supports 3D secure application.

Top Up Online

* For Vodafone (called “Cep Lira Yükleme” meaning “load Liras”) visit; vodafone.com.tr

* For Turkcell (called “TL/Paket Yükle” meaning “load TL/Package”) visit; turkcell.com.tr

1.4. How can I find out how much credit left and when I need to make a top up?

* You can see your remaining credit by dialing *123# from your mobile phone. * You can see your usage periods by dialing *166*5# from your mobile phone.

2. Prepaid SIM Card Deals for Tourists

What you will get and how much will it cost.

Turkcell currently offers Tourist Welcome Pack for travelers, , but since the rates and packages are changing very frequently, we decided not to mention what they offer.

You can reach Turkcell Customer Services by dialing +90 532 532 00 00

Please cross check the prices and details from turkcell.com.tr/en/ as they change frequently due to competition.

Vodafone currently offers Tourist Holidays Pack for travelers, but since the rates and packages are changing very frequently, we decided not to mention what they offer.

You can reach Vodafone Customer Services by dialing +90 542 542 00 00

Please check the prices and details from vodafone.com.tr as they change frequently due to competition.

Where can I buy both Turkey SIM Cards?

You can purchase both Pay-as-you-go and Prepaid Turkey SIM cards from the Turkish GSM Operators’ official stores located at the Istanbul Airports on arrival floors, the major transport stations, major streets and neighborhoods of Istanbul.

As the stores at the Istanbul Airports are dedicated to tourists, you may find lots of information about the deals in big letters/posters, or negotiate with the store sellers that will definitely speak good English. So that you won’t need to spend a lot of time with finding the right shop (city shops are mostly dedicated for locals) that have enough offers shown for tourists and store sellers that speak good English.

On the other hand, the tourist packages at the airports may cost more than the standard local rates in the downtown . If you have a local friend, or have enough skills and power to make negotiations with the store sellers, you can try purchasing your Prepaid Turkey SIM card with the best package that suits your needs in the downtown .

Our Recommendation

* If you want to buy any of the SIM card of the Turkish GSM Operators, please check the tariffs from their websites (see below) or from our given details about the recommended tariffs below, before you leave for Istanbul, and if you see a big difference with the prices offered at the airport , than don’t buy from the airport .

• https://www.turkcell.com.tr/en/aboutus/traveling-turkey
• https://www.vodafone.com.tr/en/roam-with-vodafone.php

Another Great Option: e-SIM

You can experience convenient and easily accessible eSim Mobile Data Roaming Plans during your trip in Turkey. With a variety of options to choose from, you can activate your eSIM anytime and anywhere during your stay in Istanbul or whole Turkey.

Features & How to Buy?

You can stay connected on your trip with high-speed coverage not only in Turkey but also in the other 39 most visited regions in Europe . Simply purchase and install your eSIM and select from a range of data packages, validity options, and coverage in additional countries. All you need to do is scan the eSIM QR code to access all your essential apps during your trip.

With one eSIM per device, you can easily top-up your plan by buying and activating additional eSIM plans as you go. Once activated, your coverage will begin according to your selected duration.

Know before you go

• Before booking, please ensure your mobile device is eSIM compatible and SIM-lock-free
• This eSIM data service is valid for your selected duration after activation on a 24-hour basis
• Top up by adding new eSIM plans
• You can have multiple eSIM plans for one device
• The connection speed depends on your reception and the local network
• It may take up to 15 mins to activate the plan
• You need to have internet access to activate the plan. Please connect to Wi-Fi when you install the eSIM
• Please select the eSIM as the data plan to use
• Please make sure roaming data is on
• The usage of commonly used apps (if medium quality is selected):
• Video streaming: 250MB-1GB/h
• Video conferencing: 0.8-2GB/h
• Music streaming: 200MB/h
• Social media with video content: 200MB/h

Available Countries for eSIM plan

Austria, Andorra, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guiana, Germany, Greece, Gibraltar, Guadeloupe, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, La Reunion, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Northern Ireland.

Buy Your eSIM Online

Check & Buy Your eSIM for Turkey

Summary of All

* If you will stay in Istanbul for at least 1 week , 10 days or more , and need to make and receive local calls , than you can buy Turkey SIM cards .

* If you want to use your phone only for emergency calls , than we recommend Pay-as-you-go (the cheapest option but only for calls, no data/internet).

* If you are a heavy phone user (calls, SMS, internet/data), we recommend the Prepaid SIM Card (price is per month) plan.

* There is also pocket Wifi/mobile hotspot rental services or eSIM plans that you can try. So that you won’t need to buy GSM line if you only need Internet and make phone calls via WhatsApp, etc.

* We recommend you to check Turkey’s GSM Operators’ web sites for the latest short term offers for tourists, wrote them down before you arrive Turkey, and compare the prices and offers at their stands at the New Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) . If you feel like rates at the airport are expensive , than we recommend you to get to the city center , find their local stores and buy Turkey SIM card there.

* About GSM Companies  for Istanbul, you can get about the same quality of service from all 3 GSM operators. We recommend you to catch the best deal . But, if you will stay longer and also travel around Turkey, than you we can recommend Vodafone or Turkcell .

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46 COMMENTS

Is there a Turkcell shop in Istanbul where English is spoken. I have a tricky phone matter to resolve that is beyond my Turkish (Besiktas, Istiklal, Levent, Sisli, anywhere central)

Today, I have been asked to pay 750 TL for a Tourist SIM card which is unbelievable price. The price was 169 TL on the website but is completely different at stores! I will keep using my UK number, I would rather pay this money as roaming fees.

This is the most sensible comment. Check out the options and do whatever works best ( cheapest) for you. As you realised, you have a roaming option from your own country that works, that’s better than the one in the host country and you’re going to use that.

Was charged 500 fuc**ng TL (almost 25 GBP) for a SIM card at the official Vodafone store. Are they nuts? I pay almost as much in the UK… Hate Turkey, they rip you off everywhere. Won’t go there ever again.

If that’s equal to what you pay in the UK, why is it a rip off if it’s in Turkey?

Pre-Paid sim card is free in UK, you just have to top up.

Just out of curiosity, does that mean there is no way to escape for paying such unbelievable price which is different from the official website stated?

So where can I get the portable WiFi gadget thank you

I love the fact that various people post here to complain to the blog owner abut the sim situation on arrival – is if it was their fault :D:D:D:D

I still do not understand form Vodafone’s website how much I am supposed to top up to get 5gb of data on PAYG…

they keep it vague intentionally

Hello, I am planning a trip to Istanbul for 1 week. It is important for me to have a mobile intenet. Which one do you recommend and tell me the current rates. Thank you very much.

For everyone’s information, as of today (20 May 2022), Turkcell’s official statement on their website is you should expect a price of 289.90 (base price) + 112.05 (service fee). That makes a total of almost €24 for the tourist welcome pack.

Personal side note: I live in one of the most expensive countries in the world, and for a prepaid sim card with a low-cost operator (including 10GB data, unlimited calls and SMS both in the country and to almost all European Union) I pay the equivalent of €29/month. The offer is accessible to anybody, residents and tourists, without any commitment. Turkish packs for tourists, in my opinion, have no logical or reasonable justification: they are just a shameful way to rip off foreigners.

I was sold a sim at instanbul airport for 50euro with supposed 50gb data turns out it was 29 and the sim had no number registered to it. Am going to get my money back

How about an update? In Antalya Turk Telekom is now at least 215 TL and the rest (Vodafone, TurkCell etc) charge at least 300 TL. If you know better deals, please let us know.

normal sim price of turkcell for tourist package is 169 TL but even turkcell own registered shops (i buy from trump tower shop) are selling between 250-300 TL. it mean they do not have any price control even on there own registered shops as well.

when u ask from them that why you guys are keep increasing price each month, they they will respond you same answer which is very famous in turkey……because $ price is increasing sir…….in turkey ask any price and use these words, thats all, its enough, no more excuse required…….

Hi Mike, thank you. You are right but I wonder did you ask this to the Turkcell customer service? If so I’d be glad to hear what they say. On the other hand you should consider this that, 2 months ago USD was around 8-9TRY, last Friday was 17-18, and today 10-11. Noone knows what it will be next week! Up or down!

What you should expect from any shops including markets, restaurants, service providers etc? Do you think they can give any exact price especially when they are importing goods and paying as USD

You should update your article to mention. that even the downtown stores will try to charge you more than the official rate if you are a tourist. I went to 3 Turkcell stores that were asking from 200 to 250TL for the Welcome Tourist package before I found one that would see it for the real price of 169 TL.

Hi Cesar, thank you. Well everything including prices, tariffs, store behaviors, etc changes very frequently and I don’t know what to say with prices and the behavior of the GSM companies. I gave the GSM companies’ official website information. I recommend travelers check the prices there and compare it with shops at the airport or downtown, and decide. Thank you for the feedback anyways. Best wishes!

But the sites do not give the prices sadly

Thank you so much for detailed information! I’m not sure what package we had in Vodafone(their Ebglish was very bad) but we got monthly bills. Now we moved out of Turkey but bills keep coming. Is there any idea how we can stop this? I tried to reach any kind of support for foreigners but everything is in Turkish. Thanks a lot!

Hi. Do Sim Card and internet packages bought at Istanbul will cover other regions around Turkey (such as Goreme and Cappadocia area)? I mean, is it cover all Turkey territory or only Istanbul? Thanks

Hi Alan, thank you. Well yes all packages cover all the regions in Turkey for sure. Best!

Hi, I purchased a SIM card at Istanbul airport that was then put into my unlocked iphone. I purchased a plan sufficient enough for 20 days. I’m leaving soon. Do I have to return the SIM card at the airport?

Hi Ava, thank you. Well as I don’t know which operator you did buy and which package, I can’t give the correct answer. You should have asked about it while you are buying the SIM card.

This post is not updated and we lost 30min in queue to find out what the comments already said.

I think it’s very bad of Istanbeautiful to not mention the sim card prices. The “Vodafone offer” is not valid. Please don’t just mention the official website.

Hi Duc, thank you. Your comment is really crazy. You say you are unable to find pricing and what to do with the WORLD BRAND !!! Vodafone, and I am the one to blame?!!!

The page’s title is “Plans + Insider Advice”, which means I am telling the possible useful plans and giving my advice. GSM operators even change pricing vert frequently and it is not my business. Please be more respectful and make your complaints to Vodafone or other GSM company’s customer service or whatever. Also bear in mind that this is travel blog and we are not obliged to tell every details of the World Brands’ or any other big companies’ failure in giving information to their visitors on their own website.

Please write Vodafone Turkey or Vodafone Headquarters telling that you are unable to find any updated plus good information information in English on Turkey’s Vodafone website. Also tell that majority of the people in the Vodafone shops in Turkey don’t speak English and we are as tourist are really very disappointed …

Good evening 

I came to Istanbul about a month ago. When I reached the airport I bought a telephone package from your office at the arrival point. I bought 2 two Sim cards for my wife and myself, and were given the following numbers:

1. +90 534 436 26 ** – 2. +90 534 435 01 **

Complaint : In summary I would like to file a complaint against the bad and annoying services provided by your company. When we exhausted the data (GBs) we bought, my friend and I went many times to your offices in Turium Mall and Marmara Park Mall, we asked to topup. 

Unfortunately, we noticed that your staff provide normal services to the Turkish customers, but once we as Arabs reach our turn, and ask for topup, your staff immediately say the following :

1.”system down” or “system yuk”  2. I cannot help you  3.Go to Carrefour and get service or go snother Turksel office 

Furthermore, most of your staff do not speak English or may be pretend not to speak English, in order to avoid serving us!!!!! We don’t believe that they are telling the truth. We believe that they don’t want to serve us for unknown reasons.!!! 

We could not believe that this happens to us in such a country which promotes tourist to visit their country and invite foreign investors to make investments. If you need any further information please call me on: 0534 436 26 **

Best regards, Abdulrahman From Bahrain 

Hi Abdulrahman, thank you. First of all, please don’t say “your company” or “your GSM”, because this is a travel blog and we are not selling GSM here and not a partner of the GSM companies. We are only a travel blog trying to give advice and show the current situation. GSM companies are world brands and if you are unhappy, than you should call them make your complaints. I can only say sorry for what you had.

how to reload for data plan if im using Prepaid?

I bought a chip from turk telecom about 3 months ago, but im leaving turkey now. Do i need to go personally and cancel my phone number or after 180 days it will automatically go inactive????

I too was quoted 200 TL for the initial sim card purchase, in 4 different official Vodafone shops. The 40-60 TL offers are available to you only after having purchased the sim card. The sim card comes with a 1 month option built-in (20 GB internet). I bought the sim card because i was short on time, but the misleading offers left a sour taste.

Hi I am going to Turkey in two weeks time. Please give me some info about getting a simcard in IST Airport. I need it for internet purpose mainly for GPS. Is the vodafone Tourist plan is a good option and what is the cheapest. i am in turkey for 10 days only. Thanks George

Hi. I bought a Vodafone TR prepaid SIM about 9 months ago. I tryed to find out if its still active and i can’t find ouț. Can you help me?

Hi Alexandru, sorry for the problem you had. Actually I don’t know what to say about all the problems people have globally with the GSM operators :(

https://www.vodafone.com.tr/en/roam-with-vodafone.php this is the customer satisfaction policy. You can can dial 542 or (+90 542) 542 00 00 to reach the Vodafone Call Center 24 hours/7 days. As Vodafone is a global brand, you can also ask for your complaints about them in your own country too I guess

Well, reading the comments leads to a single conclusion, which is both the data of the article and in the links of the telecom provider are not correct,, or lets say not updated!!!!! So, what is It for?? What is the benefit any traveller can have out of wrong infornation? It is only misleading. Kindly update the data, or remove It at all.

The data in the content is correct, the prices may have been changing time to time as there is a competition between the GSM operators. The page is a guide about which can be better for you. This is not a page telling about the up-to-date prices. And I did give the official links for the packages and prices for your cross check. Don’t be lazy to check the official links and don’t be rude as well. There is the update day on the top of the page. And there is also close X tab for the explorer, you can quit and go away immediately.

I’m a bit confused with the two plans you introduced here! But, here is my situation and I would appreciate if you could help.

I bought a BimCell sim card last year and each month I used to go to a BIM store and pay for a phone and internet package. It was OK for the first few months, but then as I did not use the telephone to call anyone, it went to a semi active mode; I was still able to use the internet and receive calls but could not call anyone. Now, I think it is completely inactive. I received a message today indicating that I owe 3,150 tl as a wireless usage fee to the government!!

I do not understand why am I getting this much charged for not even being able to use the damn phone for the past 6 months!

Have you any idea what I should do?

Thanks, Faye

Hi Faye, sorry that you had such a disappointing experience. Well personally I would not prefer GSM services operated by side companies like supermarket chain stores, postal services etc. For BimCell, I didn’t introduced them here as I by myself have no such experience and idea with their services. About your problem, what I know is that when your package is inactive for a specific time period, your card and line should be closed and the contract should be automatically cancelled. And I recommend you to call and their customer service from 4444551

I checked BimCell website (Turkish unfortunately) and it says below;

The details of Active Duration and Inactive Duration determined according to the last load date are as follows;

Active Duration (184 days): From your last load date, your line will be open for both making and receiving calls for 184 days. If you have not reloaded after 184 days, your line will be closed to outside calls and the 92-day inactive period will begin.

Passive Period (92 days): During the passive period, your line is closed to outside calls, you can only receive calls from your line. In order to make calls again, you need to load.

If you do not load your line until the end of the passive period, your line will be closed completely and your Contract Agreement for the line will be cancelled.

Lies. Its 200 liras for a sim, from any company. I checked with 7 shops AND the corporate stores. If 95+tax equals 200, then just say so. A lie by omission is still a lie.

Hi James, thank you for your disrespectful comment. Here I am not selling any GSM SIM card or whatever. I did give details about what you’d get. You should check the page’s last updated day as the prices may have changed. I am also giving the official links of the GSM operators to let you cross check about all. Here I give idea, you should definitely buy your SIM card or whatever from official local shops.

Lies? Seriously? The guy is only showing useful information about Istanbul and tourists SIM cards with links from the companies websites. I contacted Vodafone recently and their offer (₺40) is no longer available, but they are still publishing it on their website.

Ahmad, thank you very much for your support! Best wishes

This article isn’t accurate. I’m in Turkey now and it is impossible to buy just the sim card without activating an expensive plan. Vodafone quoted me 180 lira for a sim card with no plan on it. They want you to buy a plan, so they make it difficult to just buy the card alone.

Hi Fatima, there is a competition between 3 main GSM operators in Turkey and the prices, packages and tariffs change very frequently. I did give the official links of the GSM operators so you should cross check. And note that the prices can be higher on local shops.

Bought the TURISTCELL, thank you for your personal delivery to the airport, 1000 min international calls was enough so as 15gb 4g internet, and every where Good connection, we post everything live to or friend’s and families throw Instagram and WhatsApp. We used the unlimbered local calls for our driver, hotel etc. I just can recommend it.

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SIM Cards in Turkey: How to Buy + Best Deals

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

Traveling to Turkey? Wondering where and how to buy a local SIM card for your trip to Turkey? We’ve done all the research so you don’t have to!

We spent three months in Turkey, now known as Türkiye, in 2022 and tried the three big mobile providers for a month each, plus we tried a couple of eSIM cards in Turkey too.

In this guide to Turkish SIM cards, we’ll answer all your frequently asked questions, including how to save money when buying your SIM card, how to get the best signal and speed, how to get the best 4g, and how to keep your phone topped up for the whole of your stay.

Do You Need a SIM Card in Turkey?

Most Turkish hotels, cafés and restaurants have pretty good wifi services, so you may be wondering why you even need a mobile SIM card when you’re traveling in Turkey.

If you’re always on the go, using public transport or driving, and hopping between cities and attractions, then a local SIM card is invaluable. The convenience of being able to check your bank balance, translate, order an Uber or Lyft, book a hotel or even call for roadside assistance just make life on the road a little bit easier.

Also, public networks in hotels, shopping malls and eateries are not secure. If you need to manage personal banking, send emails or do anything other than browsing and streaming, you’ll be vulnerable using public wifi.

Good to Know: All Turkey SIM card prices and exchange rates are accurate at the time of going to press in mid-October 2022.

Planning a trip to Turkey? Get all our tips and tricks about driving in Turkey so you can stay safe on the road and have an amazing trip!

What About Your Existing Provider?

You will not be able to use your data, make calls or send texts with your domestic contract, unless you’re willing to spend a lot of money. Our UK-based mobile phone provider charges us £3.33/US$3.73 per 1GB, or £6/US$6.73 a day for an international roaming package, and some American friends we met in the country were looking at even higher costs to use their cell phones overseas.

The best option is to buy a local SIM card. You’ll need to make sure your phone is unlocked, and it’s best to do this before you arrive in Turkey, as it can take a few days.

But what if you don’t want to swap SIMs and lose your number? You could get a portable wifi device, use an eSIM or use an app for calling – but we’ll come onto that later.

Good to Know: If you’re in the country for any longer than 120 days, you will need to register your device in Turkey and pay the registration fee of 2,732 Turkish lire (£131/US$147) or your phone will be blocked from the Turkish mobile phone networks. Find out how to register your phone here .

Best SIM Card Turkey: Our Recommendation

If you’re in a hurry and just want to know the best SIM card in Turkey for tourists, then go with Turkcell . You can get a Turkcell tourist welcome pack, which gives you 20GB of data plus country-wide calls and SMS, for around £15/US$17.

We recommend Turkcell because it has by far the best network coverage, an intuitive and easy-to-use app for topping up data, and wide coverage of stores and re-sellers. It is not the cheapest of the Turkish operators, but at around 25p/30c per 1GB of top-up data, it is at least 80% cheaper than the equivalent costs in the UK or USA.

Is this your first time visiting Turkey? Get all the information you need in our Turkey Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Buying Tourist SIM Cards in Turkey

The sale of SIM cards to visitors in Turkey is controlled by the government, and you will only be able to purchase a tourist pre-paid SIM card. expect the process to take at least 30-40 minutes, with a contract to be signed at the end.

One SIM card is allowed per passport, and you must take this with you when you buy the SIM, which will be registered against your passport and visa (if you need one). You’ll be asked to sign a simple contract at the end of the transaction.

Pop the SIM into your phone and check it’s working. Remember to keep the contract and SIM envelope as it will have your new Georgian phone number written on it, and you’ll need this to use the app.

Your prepaid Turkey SIM card is valid for 28 days. If you need it for longer, make sure to top up before the 28 days, and the validity period will extend to three months.

There are no unlimited data options in Turkey for mobile phone SIMs. The most data we were able to buy at a time was 70GB, but this included all sorts of add-ons we didn’t want. We stuck to topping up with the specific data-only packs, so we weren’t paying for services we didn’t need.

Good to know: Every time we purchased a Turkish SIM card, we were asked to pay cash. We asked about using a credit card but were told that they were unable to accept non-Turkish cards in store.

Are you planning a road trip in Turkey? Get the best Turkish road trip destinations and places to see/things to do en route + maps and nearby attractions so you don’t miss a thing!

Turkish Telco Operators

Turkey has three big SIM card providers – Turkcell, Turk Telecom and Vodafone Turkey. You’ll find their stores and re-seller shops (where you can top-up) in every town and city across the country.

All three Turkish telecom providers also have an app which is not geo-locked, where you can check usage and add data. We found the app user experience extremely varied.

Some Turkish providers are allowed to set prices for the tourist SIM card at shop level, so you may find you pay more in a tourist area, at Istanbul airport, a transport interchange or at the land border. We found the prices considerably cheaper in out-of-the-way towns and cities, in some cases by as much as 50%.

Good to Know: All the Turkish operators use LTE, which stands for ‘long-term evolution’. Similar to 4g and often referred to as 4.5g, LTE data is transferred faster and with lower latency, making it a better option than regular 4g. Turkey is expected to see 5g become available in mid-2023.

RELATED POST: SIM Cards in Georgia: How to Buy + Best Deals

Tourist Welcome Pack

Price: From 320TRY (£15.30/US$17.15). Expect to pay upwards of 450TRY at the airport or border.

Included: 20GB internet + 200 minutes of calls in Turkey + unlimited messaging via Whatsapp and BiP (their own messaging system).

Top-up: Data is topped up with pre-paid data packages, which cost from 5TRY (25p/30c) per 1GB for a 30GB data pack + minutes, to 10TRY (50p/60c) per 1GB for a smaller 8GB pack. There are over 30 packages available via the app, and you can choose which is most suitable for your needs.

App: The Turkcell app is available in English for both IoS and Android operating systems, the app is user-friendly, and it’s easy to see your data, calls and SMS usage. We were able to top up successfully 90% of the time, with the occasional glitch at the point of payment. Using a different card and/or not agreeing to store the payment information always seemed to resolve this issue.

Coverage: Turkcell is widely considered to have the best mobile network coverage in the country, which is backed up by their network coverage map . We were able to get a strong LTE 4g signal in even the most remote of spots. Think the top of Nemrut Dagi , or Ani right on the Armenian border.

Speed: We were able to upload large video files to YouTube quickly, download high-resolution images easily and stream Netflix.

Good to Know: Turkcell gives away gifts every Wednesday when a gift box icon called salla kazan urges you to shake the phone and win a prize. It’s usually something like 2GB of data free for the next 12 hours or unlimited YouTube for a day. It’s a bit gimmicky, but actually quite helpful!

Vodafone Turkey

Tourist prepaid sim card.

Price: From 350TRY (£16.80/US$18.85). Expect to pay upwards of 500TRY at the airport or border.

Included: 20GB internet + 750 minutes calls in Turkey + 250 local SMS + unlimited Whatsapp.

Top-up: Data is topped up with pre-paid ‘easy packages’, which cost from 6TRY (30p/35c) per 1GB for a 30GB data pack + minutes, to 12TRY (60p/67c) per 1GB for a smaller 7GB pack. There are nine packages available via the app, and you can choose which is most suitable for your needs.

App: Called Yanimda, the app is available in English for both IoS and Android operating systems. We didn’t find this app very user-friendly, and it was hard to navigate. It was impossible to top up using the app, as it required the entry of 4 digits into the CVV2 field, which we all know is only 3 digits, even in Turkey!

Coverage: The Vodafone coverage was not as wide as Turkcell – at one point I had full LTE coverage, and Phil was stuck with the dreaded E!

Speed: We were able to upload large video files to YouTube, download high-resolution images and stream Netflix, but it took an hour to upload one YT video, and streaming tv involved a bit of buffering, dependent on location.

Good to Know: According to speedtest.net Turkey ranks 66th in the world for internet speed, with a median download speed of 28.72mbps and a median upload speed of 12.27mbps.

Turk Telekom

Price: The only operator with a fixed price for a tourist SIM.

Welcome 25 : 25GB data + 750 minutes in Turkey + 750 local SMS Price: 85TRY (£4.10/US$4.60)

Welcome 50 : 50GB data + 1000 minutes in Turkey + 1000 local SMS Price: 85TRY (£7.90/US$8.85)

Welcome 75 : 75GB data + 750 minutes in Turkey + 750 local SMS Price: 85TRY (£7.90/US$8.85)

Top-up: You can top up with 20GB of data for 50TRY (£2.40/US$2.70)

App: Called Türk Telekom Online İşlemler, the app does not have the option to change languages. Even though Turk Telecom offers the cheapest data, not being able to top up using the app made using their SIM cards for the duration of our 90-day stay a non-starter.

Coverage: Turk Telekom’s coverage is pretty weak in comparison to their competitors. They do offer 5,000 wifi hotspots around the country, but we would only recommend them if you’re planning to visit the popular tourist areas and attractions. They’re not a good choice if you’re planning to go off the beaten path in Turkey.

Speed: We were able to upload large video files to YouTube but it was a slow process. Successful downloading of high-resolution images and streaming Netflix was very location dependent.

Using a VPN in Turkey

Turkey’s government has been ramping up its internet censorship and surveillance regime for years, and currently, almost 350,000 websites are blocked in Turkey. You’ll need an effective VPN for Turkey to access the open internet, avoid government internet monitoring and stream tv from your home country.

While technically using a VPN is legal in Turkey, the government has blocked many VPN providers. We recommend NordVPN as they offer obfuscated servers, meaning not only can you disguise your IP address at the receiving end, you can disguise it in Turkey too, meaning you can use NordVPN without detection.

We used NordVPN on our phones and Macbooks for the duration of our three-month stay, meaning we could catch up with Netflix and Amazon Prime, manage personal finances and access lots of websites we wouldn’t have been able to otherwise, like YouTube .

You need to organise this before you travel, as yep, you guessed it, NordVPN is a blocked website!

Using an eSIM in Turkey

An eSIM is a virtual SIM, which usually provides data only. The benefits of eSIMs are multiple;

• An eSIM works in your phone in conjunction with your normal SIM – you can move between using one or the other, meaning you can keep your usual number.
• You buy your eSIM online, making them extremely convenient.
• eSIM providers work with lots of networks, meaning you’ll connect to the best one wherever you are.
• An eSIM can cover multiple locations and not tie you to one country. Think the whole of Europe, Asia or North America – how simple would that be?
• No data roaming fees – you know the costs upfront.
• You can organise your eSIM at home and activate it on arrival.
• These data-only SIM cards mean you’re not paying for minutes and texts you don’t need and won’t use.

The only downside is that you have to pay for the convenience, and the per GB cost is high in comparison to local prices. 1GB of data in Turkey with popular eSIM provider Airalo costs £4/US$4.50, in comparison to £2.50/US$2.80 for 1GB of Turkcell top-up data.

Good to Know: Your device needs to be unlocked. e-SIMs don’t work with all mobile devices – you can check whether your phone is compatible here .

Price: £19 to £87 / US$19 to US$99

Included: From five days to 90 days of unlimited data. You cannot tether or hotspot using these plans.

How: Buy online and receive a QR code (so you need a second device or someone with you) to scan, and you’re good to go.

RELATED POST: Holafly eSIM Review: The Best Unlimited eSIM for Travel?

Price: £4 to £16 / US$4.50 to US$18

Included: From 1GB to 10GB of data, with all but the smallest pack valid for 30 days. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot.

How: Buy online and receive a QR code (so you need a second device or someone with you) to scan, and you’re good to go. Use code IZZY9131 to get US$3 discount on your order.

RELATED POST: Airalo Review: The Best eSIM Card for Travel?

Price: £7 to £24 / US$9 to US$30

Included: From 3GB to 20GB of data, valid from 7 to 30 days. You can use this Europe travel eSIM to tether and hotspot. Also included is a VPN (only if using an iPhone) but you may struggle to use this in Turkey.

Top-Up: At the end of the unlimited period, just buy another pack in the app for your existing eSIM.

How: Buy online and add automatically, no need for a QR code of second device, but you do need internet. Use code Gap24 to get €3 dicsount.

RELATED POST: Yesim Review: The Best eSIM Option for Europe?

Price: 18.50 to £50 / US$20 to US$54

Included: From 1GB to 5GB of data valid for 7 days for the smallest data pack and 30 days for the larger packs. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot, and there are top-up options available via the Nomad app.

How: Buy online and receive a QR code (so you need a second device or someone with you) to scan, and you’re good to go. Use code IZZY47KJ to get US$3 discount on your order.

RELATED POST: Nomad eSIM: The Best eSIM for Europe?

Price: £1 to £54 / US$1.50 to US$75

Included: From 1GB to 20GB of data, with all but the smallest two packs valid for 30 days. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot. BreatheSIM packages cover areas rather than countries, so in the Turkey eSIM, the whole of Europe is covered.

How: Buy online and make some changes to your settings (explained very clearly on their website) and the eSIM will activate automatically once you connect to a network in a country covered by the bundle.

Price: £9 to £71 / US$10 to US$80

Included: From 3GB to 20GB of data valid for 28 days, and three unlimited eSIMs valid for 7, 15 or 28 days. You can use this eSIM to tether and hotspot, but the unlimited data plans have a fair usage policy of 2GB of data per day, after which data usage is barred.

Order a Turkish SIM Card Online

If you like to be organised and want to slip that SIM into place as soon as you arrive, then ordering a Turkish SIM online for delivery to your home or workplace is a great option. Remember that your phone must be unlocked to use a replacement SIM like this.

Travel SIM World

Price: £35.60 / US$39.90

Included: 6GB of data, no calls or SMS. Valid for 15 days. Tethering and hotpot enabled. It is not possible to top up this SIM card.

How: Buy your personal SIM card for Turkey and get it delivered to 120+ countries. Prepare your device and check your settings. Arrive at your destination, insert your SIM card and start browsing.

Orange Holiday World

Price: £44.50 / US$49.90

Included: 10GB of data, no calls or SMS. Valid for 14 days. Tethering and hotpot enabled. Various top-up options are available.

Portable WiFi Device for Turkey

A portable wifi device or portable hotspot means you can keep your number, and tether or hotspot to the device, wherever you are. A pocket wifi device like this operates like a router at home, meaning more than one device can be connected simultaneously.

Instead of connecting to your internet service provider, the wifi device uses cloud SIM technology, meaning you don’t need to buy a SIM card because it’s already included.

GlocalMe devices usually come pre-loaded with a few GB of data, and then you can buy more via their app or online. GlocalMe offers a variety of packs from one-day passes for £3.60/US$4, to an 8GB 30-day pack for £40/US$45.

Just register your device online or in the app and purchase data packs for immediate mobile internet connectivity.

GlocalMe Duoturbo Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router

GlocalMe UPP 4G Mobile WiFi Router

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Turkiye SIM Card for Tourists: 2023 Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Turkiye soon and are wondering whether you need an unlocked phone or a Turkish SIM card to get connected there, the answer is yes to both. You will need to use the internet, send sms, and more while you are traveling and it’s important to make sure you have access when you need it. Having your own unlocked mobile phone will help you stay connected while traveling in the country, and getting a local SIM card from one of the top network operators there will help you make local calls at affordable rates. Here is what we have found so far.

Tip : If you’re traveling to Istanbul, renting a car is an absolute must! You’ll be able to see everything the city has to offer without dealing with the hassles of public transportation or expensive taxis. Plus, you’ll have the added benefit of being able to venture outside of the city limits to see some of Turkey’s other amazing sights. See options & prices here .

1. Should I get a sim card on my vacation in Turkiye?

2. how much does a sim card in turkiye cost, 3. which network operator is the best to get a tourist sim card (turkcell, vodafone and more), 4. what is a prepaid tourist sim card, 5. roaming on your uk / usa sim card, which sim card is best for turkey.

You don’t have to get a new SIM card while on vacation in Turkiye, if you already have an unlocked mobile phone and a UK / USA sim card with a data plan. You can keep using your existing SIM card, but keep in mind that data roaming charges might apply. The local network operators in Turkiye might have some roaming agreements with your home network operator, but you can never be sure. Therefore, it’s better to play safe and get an affordable tourist sim card in Turkiye to stay connected on the go.

“ Tip : If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul for more than 1 day, be prepared for the heavy traffic that can eat up a lot of your time. To make the most of your trip, we recommend staying in the Galata Tower area for its central location and easy accessibility to the city center, museums, and other popular attractions. Check out this link to find the best hotels in the area, and keep reading for more helpful tips!

The cost of a sim card in Turkiye will depend on the network operator you choose to buy it from, and their existing offers for local and international customers. For example, if you are an international tourist in Turkiye and looking to get a local SIM card, you can expect to pay around 25 to 30 USD for a SIM card depending on the network operator and their offers.

A local SIM card in Turkiye will cost less than 10 USD. This might be an option if you want to budget the amount of Turkish lira you want to spend, but remember this option offers local services. These are some of the network operators to get a tourist sim card in Turkiye: Turkcell and Vodafone are the leading ones. There are a variety of options as a Tourist Welcome Pack in Vodafone Turkey. A Turkcell sim card also comes with mobile internet, and more, depending on the plan you choose for your usage. You can also get a local SIM card from the two leading mobile network operators in the country – the Turkish Telecommunication Authority (T-Mobile) and Turk Telekom (A Turkish Company).

If you want to get the best sim card possible, the top network operators to get a SIM card in Turkiye are Vodafone and Turkcell . They both have the best coverage, a wide range of plans and packages for customers, and also provide a reliable network for tourists. The network operators have also partnered with a few network agencies to sell their SIM cards to tourists. It is the best option to get a sim card in Turkiye for tourists.

Considering you will be using the internet to do most things while traveling (using Google Maps , registration, email, etc.), and that accesing WiFi might be difficult in some situations, it might be best to choose a plan with unlimited data. You might want to tak to your loved ones back home frequently, or maybe you will need to make many business calls within Turkey, so making a change in your phone number may affect your travel quality. Some plans include limited GB of internet, however, they provide unlimited WhatsApp , or another app like Facebook , or Twitter , which is good if those are your primary platform of communication. There are also SIM bundles you can choose from. Either way, if you know your priorities finding the best deal is no hassle, because there are many options available, and you can find relevant info on their websites now.

A prepaid tourist sim card is a local SIM card that you can get from any of the network agencies in Turkiye. You can get a Turkey prepaid card from any of the leading operators in the country – Vodafone, Turk Telecom, and Turkcell. These companies offer special tourist prepaid SIM card options– with a tourist plan that you can get at an affordable price to stay connected while in Turkiye.

The prepaid Turkey sim card for tourists will help you stay connected with friends and family back home, get cheap local and international calls, and use data to stay connected anytime, anywhere in the country. The best thing about tourist SIM cards in Turkiye is that you can make calls and use data as much as you want without worrying about running up a huge bill. Tourist SIM card Turkiye offers have a wide variety for your convenience. Do not forget that you will need to show your passport to get a tourist SIM card Turkey. You don’t necessarily need a physical tourist SIM card Turkey, you can get an e-SIM card. An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to access your carrier without a physical one.

If you have an unlocked mobile phone and a United Kingdom or United States SIM card, you can use it while traveling in Turkiye. The only thing you need to do is enable data roaming on your network operator’s account. You can then use your UK / USA SIM card to make calls, send text messages, and use data. Don’t forget that although you will likely be able to find content to watch or listen to in English, you might need to use VPN to access content you were able to access back in Europe, or the US, in your streaming services.

Make sure you don’t go over your monthly data limit. You might incur roaming charges while traveling in Turkiye depending on your network operator. For more information about what to do in Istanbul, you can also check our blog on 7 days Istanbul itinerary !

If you’re a tourist visiting Turkiye, it is highly recommended to get a prepaid tourist SIM card. The SIM card will provide you with unlimited data and a variety of call and text packages to suit your needs without worrying about high bills.

Tourist SIM cards can be easily obtained by providing your passport at various vendors across the country. If you don’t want to bother with having a physical card, an e-SIM option is also available. However, if you have an unlocked mobile phone and a UK or USA SIM card, enabling data roaming on your operator’s account could also be an option.

Check out the HeyTripster readers’ top-rated Istanbul attractions:

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Buying a Sim Card at Istanbul Airport in 2024

Planning a trip to Turkey and flying to Istanbul Airport and wondering if you can buy a prepaid sim card at Istanbul Airport (IST) on arrival? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know before buying a prepaid sim card for Turkey at Istanbul Airport.

Find out where to buy a prepaid sim card, up to date prices as per March 2024, best 4G/5G network in Turkey, sim card shops opening hours, my recommendation, a vlog about my experiences, the best e-sim cards for Turkey, info about international sim cards and everything else you need to know.

Get yourself a local prepaid sim card on arrival in Turkey or order an e-sim card on the internet to avoid high roaming charges, it will make your trip to Istanbul much easier if you have a working data connection on your phone.

Finding out the best way to stay connected is one of the first thing I look for when planning a trip to a new country. In the past I always used to buy a prepaid sim card on arrival  but nowadays I mostly order an e-sim card on the internet so that I have data on my phone as soon as the plane lands.

As Traveltomtom is also trying to  travel to every country in the world I get to a lot of different places and to help fellow travelers saving money I like to document all my travel tips.

Therefore on Traveltomtom you can find more than 200 sim card guides from all over the world: USA , Mexico , Colombia , Argentina ,  Thailand , Bangkok ,  South Africa , Kenya , Paris , London , Amsterdam , Europe , Asia , Sydney , Singapore , Saudi Arabia , Germany , Philippines , Brazil , Singapore , Australia  and many more.

Of course I also wrote a complete guide for buying a tourist sim card in Turkey in 2024  as well as buying a sim card at Istanbul SAW Airport , the other airport in Istanbul.

Rather order an e-sim card for Turkey on the internet then click on the link for my complete Turkey e-sim card guide for 2024 .

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RELATED: the Ultimate Turkey Itinerary for 14 days . See all the hidden gems and don't miss any of the top sights in Turkey. Or check out my list of the  best places to visit in Turkey in 2024 .

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for Turkey on the internet  when traveling to Istanbul. Why? The Turkey prepaid sim cards at Istanbul airport are ridiculously overpriced!

E-sim cards for Turkey are much cheaper and already start from $4.5 USD and you get 20 GB data for just $26 USD from Airalo , on top of that you can arrange everything online within just a couple clicks.

Buying a prepaid sim card for Turkey on arrival at Istanbul Airport is very expensive. The cheapest prepaid sim card plan at Istanbul Airport as per March 2024 costs 1,000 Turkish Lira which is $31 USD.

Buying a sim card at Istanbul Airport is super easy and convenient, but you pay a price for that convenience! The tourist sim cards they sell at Istanbul Airport are ridiculously overpriced and therefore Traveltomtom recommends e-sim cards for traveling to Istanbul.

Another option is to wait until you get to Istanbul city center and buy your Turkey prepaid sim card there. You will find the same plans as at the airport but then  almost 30% CHEAPER!  Read more about it in my article about buying a prepaid sim card in Turkey in 2024 .

Another way of staying connected when traveling in 2024 is an international sim card. Some of these travel sim cards are great deals for visiting Turkey. Check out my review and comparison of the best international sim cards for traveling abroad in 2024  and pick the one that suits your trip.

Keep reading for more info about Turkey e-sim cards, the easiest way to stay connected to the internet when traveling to Turkey in 2024.

Istanbul is a mind-blowing city and I am sure some Istanbul travel tips will help you make the most of your trip. I recommend you to stay in Besiktas , Taksim or Sultanahmet , check out the amazing things to do in Uskudar on the Asian side of Istanbul or one of these 10 hidden gems in Istanbul .

Best e-sim cards for Turkey

The easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Istanbul in 2024 is an e-sim card. No need to visit a sim card store anymore or buy a sim card at Istanbul Airport. With an e-sim card you are online as soon as the plane lands.

You order an e-sim card for Istanbul on the internet, you receive a QR code, scan it, follow the simple steps and within less than 2 minutes you have a Turkey e-sim card installed on your phone.

Upon arrival in Istanbul it automatically connects you to an available network and you enjoy data on your phone pretty much when the plane lands.

Make sure your phone is e-sim compatible before ordering an e-sim card for Turkey.

For all your answers on FAQ's about Turkey e-sim cards check out Traveltomtom's complete guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for traveling to Turkey in 2024 .

Airalo is a reliable e-sim provider and Traveltomtom has used Airalo in more than 50 countries around the world. Check out the Airalo e-sim card plans for Turkey in 2024:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $6.5 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $8 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $12 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $18 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $26 USD

Click here for more info or to order your Turkey e-sim card via Airalo .

Airalo always has some ongoing promotions, so definitely check out if they have ongoing promotions for Turkey e-sims.

The above Merhaba e-sim cards are data-only and are only valid in Turkey. Merhaba operates on the 4G/LTE network of Turk Telekom in Turkey.

SimOptions is another reputable e-sim card provider that provides e-sim cards for pretty much every country in the world.  SimOptions also offers e-sim cards for Turkey, but they are much more expensive than Airalo.

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $7.90 USD
• 4 GB data for 10 days = $17.90 USD
• 5 GB data for 10 days = $17.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $29.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $49.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an e-sim card plan for traveling to Turkey via SimOptions .

There is also Nomad an e-sim provider with very competitive prices. Traveltomtom has used Nomad several times in many different countries around the world.

They have a great e-sim card plan worth mentioning as it gives you 10 GB data for just $15 USD. The best thing about the Nomad e-sim cards for Turkey is that they are 5G ready as of 2024.

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $6 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $15 USD

Click here for more info or to order an e-sim card for Turkey from Nomad .

With an e-sim card you keep your own phone number, but make sure your phone is e-sim card compatible and your phone unlocked before ordering an e-sim card for your trip to Istanbul.

This is just a summary of the best Turkey e-sim cards. In Traveltomtom's complete guide you will find everything you need to know about using e-sim cards when traveling to Turkey in 2024. Much more e-sim card plans and details, a comparison of the best e-sim cards for Turkey, all FAQ and of course my conclusion of  what is the best e-sim card for traveling to Turkey in 2024 .

Why buying a sim card for Turkey

I can come up with a ton of reasons why being connected to the internet makes traveling to Istanbul much easier. Ordering a taxi, using translation apps, getting direction from Google Maps, looking for nearby rooftop bars and so on. Disconnecting is the new luxury and I totally agree, but not when visiting a city!

Yes, your hotel has free WiFi and so do bars and restaurants in Istanbul, but do you want to rely on others? What if the WiFi isn't working or the signal in your room is too weak, the internet speed is super slow? Also keep in mind that public WiFi connections are UNSECURED networks. Using a VPN is recommend.

Getting a local sim card in Turkey is easy and done fast. The most convenient place to buy a Turkey sim card on arrival is of course at the airport.

When not a fan swapping sim cards and changing phone number have a look into pocket WiFi devices. These travel gadgets are a great way to stay connected while traveling , but I am not the biggest fan. Read my HONEST review in the link.

Istanbul Airport IST

Welcome to the 'new' Istanbul Airport (IST) with the ambition to become one of the biggest airports in the world in terms of handling passengers. Istanbul Airport is obviously ultra modern and super spacious. Seems like a great airport to arrive for your Turkey trip, but I am NOT a fan.

The airport is insanely huge, walking distances are legit far! Having a stopover in Istanbul Airport then fingers crossed you are going to make your flight connection. From experience I unfortunately have to admit that loads of times I missed my connection flight with Turkish Airlines. With loads I mean, almost 10 times now.

There is NO compensation as Turkish Airlines changed the Terms & Conditions in such a way that they don't have to pay you any compensation. Although having an Elite Plus status with Turkish Airlines I do NOT recommend flying them, just like I don't encourage you to buy a sim card at Istanbul Airport.

Most cringe about IST Airport is that they only offer 1 hour free WiFi and after that you will have to pay. However, you are probably just arriving at Istanbul Airport and starting your trip to Turkey. In that case never mind, my extra info! :) 

When arriving it is very easy to navigate and there is only one International Arrival Hall. After you went to passport control you get to a huge Baggage Claim Hall. There are ATM's, money changers and Duty Free shops, but no sim card shops in the baggage claim area.

Where to buy a Turkey sim card at Istanbul Airport

There are 5 different sim card shops at Istanbul Airport and they sell more or less the same prepaid sim cards for Turkey for tourists. The prices different a little, so keep reading and I tell you where you can find the best tourist sim card at Istanbul Airport.

After you collect your luggage from the luggage belts in the baggage claim area there is only one exit. Through sliding doors you will end up in the massive arrival hall and you are forced to go either left or right. 

If you walk to the right you see Burger King on your right hand side and in front of you you will see: Njoy Local SIM and Vodafone (former WIFIST) Njoy is a Turk Telekom reseller store and the 'Vodafone' (former WIFIST) sells of course Vodafone prepaid sim cards but also Turkcell sim cards. Don't be fooled by the signs this is NOT an official Vodafone store.

If you walk to the left you will see the all the phone stores of all the main mobile internet provider in Turkey: Turkcell, Vodafone and Turk Telekom.

There is also an Airport WIFI rental company. The Turkey prepaid sim card business is booming. Never have I seen an airport with so many mobile internet shops. You must think: great that means competitive prices... but NO, unfortunately not!

Be aware that prices for Turkey sim cards at Istanbul Airport are MUCH higher than in Istanbul city center. At Istanbul Airport you can buy tourist sim cards for tourist prices.

Here is Traveltomtom's vlog what it looks like arriving at Istanbul Airport and my experiences buying a local prepaid sim card to stay connected in Turkey.

Prices Turkey sim cards at Istanbul Airport in 2024

As I said in the beginning of this article, all information is up to date as per March 2024 and everything is based on my own experiences buying a sim card for my Turkey trip. As I am a full time nomadic world traveler and use Istanbul often as a base I fly to IST airport all the time.

When you decide to buy a Turkey prepaid sim card at the airport of Istanbul then always pay in Turkish Lira or by card. The exchange rates some of the stores offer are outrageous. Don't be fooled!

All stores accept international credit cards. Best is to pay by card when buying a sim card at Istanbul Airport. Prices below are in Turkish Lira and as of March 2024: $1 USD = 32 TRY and 100 TRY = $3.12 USD.

All sim card shops at Istanbul Airport are open for 24 hours. None of the sim card shops sell e-sim cards, only physical prepaid sim cards for tourists are available.

If you want an e-sim card for Turkey then check out my complete guide with the best e-sim cards for Turkey in 2024 .

Njoy Sim Istanbul Airport

Njoy is an official Turk Telekom reseller and they offer the following Turk Telekom prepaid sim card plans:

• 25 GB data + unlimited calling, texting and social media apps = 1,500 TL - $46.8 USD
• 40 GB data + unlimited calling, texting and social media apps = 1,600 TL
• 70 GB data + unlimited calling, texting and social media apps = 1,900 TL - $69.3 USD
• 90 GB data + unlimited calling, texting and social media apps = 2,050 TL
• 125 GB data + unlimited calling, texting and social media apps = 2,200 TL
• 300 GB data only = 2,800 TL

At Njoy they only sell prepaid sim cards, e-sim cards are NOT available as of March 2024.

The cheapest sim card for tourists at the NJOY/Turk Telekom store is 1,500 TL = $46.8 USD.

All packages are valid for 30 days in Turkey only. Please pay in Turkish Lira’s or use your credit card to pay in Lira. Their exchange rate is very off, but that counts for every store at Istanbul Airport. Always use local currency whether you pay cash or card.

WIFIST/WIFI 5G Vodafone Istanbul Airport

WIFIST is an official Vodafone Turkey reseller and they sell several different Vodafone Turkey prepaid sim cards valid for 30 days:

• 20 GB data + 750 minutes + 250 sms + unlimited social media = 1,500 TL - $46.8 USD
• 50 GB data + 750 minutes + 250 sms + unlimited social media = 1,750 TL
• 70 GB data + 750 minutes + 250 sms + unlimited social media = 1,900 TL - $59.3 USD
• 100 GB data + 750 minutes + 250 sms + unlimited social media = 2,100 TL

These Vodafone prepaid sim card plans are only available as a physical sim card and not as an e-sim card. Unlimited social media is included, but TikTok and YouTube is NOT included.

They now also sell Turkcell sim cards, yes this 'Vodafone' store! Here are the data-only plans.

• 12 GB data only = 1,200 TL - $37.5 USD
• 50 GB data only = 1,700 TL
• 100 GB data only = 2,050 TL - $64 USD
• 200 GB data only = 2,400 TL
• 400 GB data only = 3,950 TL- $123 USD

And they also have Turkcell prepaid sim cards for tourists including calling and texting.

• 20 GB data + 200 minutes = 1,500 TL - $46.8 USD
• 50 GB data + 1,000 minutes + 200 sms = 1,750 TL
• 105 GB data + 1,000 minutes + 200 sms = 2,100 TL - $65.5 USD

These Turkcell prepaid sim cards for tourists are available as physical prepaid sim cards as well as e-sim cards.

If you have read my best Turkey prepaid sim card for tourists in 2024  article then you know that the prices for Turkey prepaid sim cards at Istanbul Airport are MUCH more expensive than at official Vodafone or Turkcell stores in Istanbul city center.

Again a reminder to NOT pay in another currency, always pay in Turkish Lire, the above conversion rates are stupid!

EXAMPLE: at the time of updating this articles in March 2024 --> 1,500 TL = $46.8 USD, they charge you $58 USD for 1,500 TL!

Again do NOT pay in USD, always pay by card or Turkish Liras. There are many ATM's around in the arrival hall.

Vodafone store Istanbul Airport

Vodafone Turkey at Istanbul Airport definitely listened to my critics from the last years. Their prices went down drastically. Vodafone Turkey was a no-go at first, but they now got much more affordable prepaid sim card plans for tourists. Still though, very expensive compared to e-sim cards for Turkey.

The cheapest Vodafone prepaid Turkey sim card at Istanbul Airport is now 1,250 TL around $24 USD, see the price sheet above.

• 20 GB data + 750 minutes + 250 sms = 1,250 TL - $39 USD
• 50 GB data + 750 minutes + 250 sms = 1,350 TL - $42 USD
• 70 GB data + 750 minutes + 250 sms = 1,750 TL - $54.6 USD

The Vodafone store at Istanbul Airport has more sim card plans for tourists, see the photo above.

Turkey is a pretty cheap country for tourists, but the prices for tourist sim cards are through the roof. Therefore another reminder to buy a prepaid sim card for turkey on the internet or get yourself an e-sim card for Turkey .

All the above Vodafone Turkey prepaid sim card plans are valid for 30 days and are for use in Turkey only. The Vodafone store at Istanbul Airport only sells prepaid sim cards, as of March 2024 e-sim cards are still NOT provided.

Turk Telekom store Istanbul Airport

These are the update prices as per March 2024 for Turk Telekom prepaid sim cards at Istanbul Airport, also see the picture above:

• 10 GB data + 750 minutes + 100 sms = 1,100 TL - $34 USD
• 20 GB data + 750 minutes + 100 sms = 1,200 TL - $37 USD
• 40 GB data + 750 minutes + 100 sms = 1,300 TL
• 50 GB data + 750 minutes + sms = 1,400 TL  - $44 USD
• 100 GB data + 1,500 minutes + sms = 1,600 TL

They also have data only plans:

• 30 GB data = 1,100 TL - $34 USD
• 100 GB data = 1,300 TL
• 200 GB data = 1,500 TL - $46.8 USD
• 300 GB data = 1,800 TL

All Turk Telekom prepaid sim card plans are valid for 30 days and are only for use in Turkey. The Turk Telekom store at Istanbul Airport sells all prepaid sim cards as physical sim cards as well as e-sim cards.

Turkcell store Istanbul Airport

Turkcell sells a lot of prepaid sim card plans for tourists at Istanbul Airport valid for 30 days, including free WhatsApp:

• 20 GB data + 200 minutes = 1,000 TL - $31 USD
• 50 GB data + 1,200 minutes + 100 sms = 1,100 TL
• 80 GB data + 1,200 minutes + 1,000 sms = 1,400 TL   - $44 USD
• 105 GB data + 1,200 minutes + 1,000 sms = 1,600 TL

All Turkcell prepaid sim card plans are valid only in Turkey.   The Turkcell store at Istanbul Airport sells physical prepaid sim cards as well as e-sim cards for tourists for the same price.

As you have seen some of the mobile internet providers and sim card shops at Istanbul Airport provide e-sim cards. But reminder that if you  buy an e-sim card for Turkey on the internet  you can find much better deals. For example the Airalo e-sim card for Turkey with 20 GB data for just $26 USD .

Best sim card at Istanbul Airport in 2024

Unfortunately it seems that prices for Turkey prepaid sim cards for tourists at Istanbul Airport are not getting cheaper, but in fact getting more expensive. This is the conclusion after updating this article in March 2024 when I visited Turkey again for the 30th+ time.

Prices for prepaid tourist sim cards at Istanbul Airport skyrocketed in the last months and it is hard to recommend a specific prepaid sim card as all of them are overpriced.

The cheapest prepaid sim card for tourists at Istanbul Airport is a Turkcell sim card with 20 GB data and 200 minutes for 1,000 TL. That is $31 USD.

Because Turkcell also has the   BEST 4G/5G NETWORK IN TURKEY they are considered the best prepaid sim card for traveling to Istanbul and therefore it is a simple conclusion that Turkcell is the best sim card at Istanbul Airport. But be sure you buy it in the Turkcell store and not at the 'Vodafone store' called WIFIST as here the exact same sim card costs 1,500 TL, 50% more expensive.

However, a reminder that an e-sim card for Turkey with 20 GB data for 30 days only costs $26 USD and you can order it directly on the internet and you are online as soon as the plane lands.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for Turkey via either Airalo  or  SimOptions .

I am sure you now understand what I meant when I said: Traveltomtom does NOT recommend buying a prepaid sim card at Istanbul Airport. Instead order an e-sim card for Turkey online. Read all about using e-sim cards in Turkey including a comparison of the best Turkey in e-sim cards in 2024  in the link.

How I know about the best 4G/LTE network in Turkey?  Check out my recently updated article about the best Turkey sim card for tourists in 2024 , including all the information and a comparison of the network coverage maps of all the mobile internet providers.

Remember that the prices for a Turkey sim card at Istanbul Airport are much higher than the official retail stores in the city. If you want the best deal (up to 30% cheaper) you have to wait until you reach Istanbul city center and you will find much better Turkey sim card deals for tourists.

Turkey sim cards and traveling in Europe

Although Turkey and especially Istanbul is partially located in Europe, it is NOT part of the EU and therefore you can NOT use your Turkey sim card data for traveling in Europe. The other way around you might be lucky that your Europe sim card allows you free roaming in Turkey.

If you want to buy a Europe sim card that works in Turkey I can recommend you the following:  Orange prepaid sim card with 10 GB data valid in more than 30 European countries + Turkey for $49.90. You can order this physical prepaid sim card online and get it deliverd to your home address. This international prepaid sim card for Turkey is already pre-activated. Simply plug and play! Click on the link above for more info.

However, the best way to stay connected when traveling to Europe and also visiting Turkey on the same trip is a Eurolink e-sim card from Airalo.

This e-sim card is valid in all of Europe as well as in turkey. Click here to order the Eurolink e-sim card via Airalo .

If you buy a local prepaid sim card in Turkey then there is NO international roaming included in any of the prepaid sim cards.

For more info about Europe sim cards check out Traveltomtom's list of the best sim card for Europe travel in 2024 ? In the link you find my complete guide with first hand information from more than 20 countries and 25 airports.

Also another reminder that you can order an e-sim card for Turkey . You keep your own number and you don't need to swap physical sim cards and visit a sim card shop.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for Turkey via either Airalo ,  Nomad  or  SimOptions .

Pocket Wifi for Turkey

On your left-hand side when you walk into the Arrival Hall you will also find a store Airport Wifi Rental shop. Here they rent out Pocket Wifis and for $13 USD per day you get unlimited data. You can connect up to 10 devices at the same time. Sounds cool, but keep in mind that you all share the same connection, so data speed will drop drastically the more devices you connect. You will have to pay a $50 USD deposit for the pocket WiFi.

For some people, especially those with locked phones this is a solution to stay connected when traveling to Istanbul. Check out my HONEST review about these portable WiFi devices . I am not a fan! This is so old school! The easiest way to stay connected when traveling abroad in 2024 is an e-sim card for Turkey as described above.

I hope all the above tips for buying a Turkey sim card at Istanbul Airport were helpful for your upcoming Turkey trip. May you have any specific questions hit me up and leave me a comment below. Also happy to help you find some cool photos spots from around Istanbul.

Buy a prepaid sim card for Turkey online

Does buying a prepaid sim card for Turkey in Istanbul sound like too much hassle and your phone is not e-sim compatible then check out the following option.

You can order an international physical prepaid sim card for turkey online and get it delivered to your home address. These pre-activated travel sim cards work like plug and play. You put the sim card in your phone in the plane and as soon as the plane lands you are online.

Check out the following international prepaid sim card for Turkey that you can order via SimOptions:

• 10 GB data for 14 days = $49.90 USD

Click here to directly order an international sim card for Turkey via SimOptions .

Also a last reminder that with an e-sim card for Turkey you will get online within just 2 minutes and you arrange everything online. No need for swapping a physical sim card anymore or visiting a phone store.

Check out my guide and comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to Turkey in 2024 .

Or order an Airalo e-sim card with 20 GB data for $26 USD directly online or a Nomad e-sim card with 10 GB data for $15 USD .

How to get from IST New Istanbul Airport to Istanbul

You can take a regular taxi which will cost around 600 TL ($20 USD) and takes between 40-60 minutes depending on traffic and where you go in the city. If you bought a Turkey prepaid sim card already then I recommend you to download Bitaxi, the leading Taxi App in Turkey, but Uber also works. A ride to Taksim, Galata, Besiktas, etc will cost you only 600 TL ($20 USD).

There are of course also busses and damn they are convenient. Go to the -2 floor and get one of the HavaIST busses. They have several stops in the popular tourist districts of Istanbul and you only pay 60 TL ($2 USD) for a ticket. You can buy a ticket in the bus with your credit card.

In need of some more Istanbul travel inspiration then check out this 4-day Istanbul itinerary and don't miss a visit to Turkey's biggest mosque: Çamlıca . Or go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom for some serious wanderlust inspiration. As of March 2024 I have been to more than 155 countries on my way to visit every country in the world .

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Travel & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Enjoy your trip to Istanbul!

Some links in this article about buying a sim card for Istanbul are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

Buying A Turkey Sim Card For Tourists In Istanbul (& Rest of Turkey!)

If you are planning a trip to Turkey, you must wonder whether buying a Turkish sim card is necessary.

In our guide, you will find information about how much it costs to buy a Turkish sim card, where to get it, and whether you actually need a sum card in Turkey or not . Enjoy!

Planning A Trip To Istanbul Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:

• Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken Airport (SAW) (Hassle-free and cheap!)

Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:

• Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must In Istanbul!)
• Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique cultural experience!)
• Istanbul Food Tour: Taste of Two Continents (For the foodies!)
• Historical Turkish Bath Experience (SOOO relaxing!!)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:

• Magnuara Palace Hotel (Beautiful hotel in the historic center!)
• Pera Palace Hotel (Luxurious and affordable)
• Cheers Hostel (Perfect for backpackers!!)

Should You Buy A Sim Card In Turkey As A Tourist?

Before you pull your credit card out and start ordering a Turkey sim card, do you actually need a Turkish sim card for traveling in Turkey? After all, Turkey is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world for tourism, there has to be plenty of WiFi everywhere you go, right?

Not exactly.

In places like Istanbul and Antayla, numerous public spaces offer free WiFi as long as you can receive a confirmation code on your phone . However, once you get out of Istanbul to other tourist attractions in Turkey such as Pamukkale, Cappadocia , and Ephesus, WiFi can be hard to come by .

Public transportation in Turkey doesn’t have WiFi , which is probably the most important time to have it because you need to know where to go.

When you have a Turkish sim card, not only will you get a lot of data to use for the entire country, but you also get a phone number that is necessary for booking things such as buses, accommodation, and tours.

It will allow you use to Google Translate, so you can easily get around without knowing any Turkish words or phrases for traveling !

In general, we highly recommend you to purchase a sim card for tourists in Turkey because it will be much more convenient and save you lots of headaches (as it did for us)!

Is A Sim Card In Turkey Expensive?

One of the biggest concerns about purchasing Turkey sim cards is the price. Does it cost a lot to get a sim card in Turkey? Fortunately not!

Turkish sim cards are cheap , especially when compared to western standards. It is, however, relatively expensive when compared to the cost of everything else in the country.

For us, we paid about 220 Turkish Liras (~26 USD at the time of writing) for a 20 GB sim card in Istanbul, and that was the lowest offer they had. In comparison, you can have about 5 to 7 great meals in Istanbul at that price!

Disclaimer: Turkey is in the midst of an inflation crisis, the currency exchange ratio from USD to Turkish Lira is changing rapidly. In return, the cost of everything in Turkey, including sim cars, is going to change unpredictably. Please keep that in mind when shopping!

Nonetheless, it isn’t a lot of money in terms of western standards. The only downside is that you have to get it for a minimum of 30 days , which is not great if you have a short Turkey itinerary.

If you run out of data on your sim card, it is much cheaper to top it up than buying a new one!

It is worth noting that the prices of sim cards in Turkey are not consistent. The price of the same sim card is different in different parts of the city (or country), especially the airport.

We were looking for sim cards in Istanbul and went to over 10 different stores in different neighborhoods and the prices were never the same . Maybe there is a different price for sim cards for tourists than locals.

The Turkish sim card prices in the Istanbul Airport were the highest . It seems like all airports in Turkey charge a premium for sim cards. Therefore, we recommend avoiding getting a sim card in the Turkish airports if possible.

3 Best Turkey Sim Card Providers

As far as we know, there are only 3 companies that offer Turkish sim cards: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom . From our in-depth research and personal experience, Turkcell is the best sim card and mobile phone operator company out of the three.

If you don’t want to read the rest of this guide and need to buy a sim card in Turkey right now, go with Turkcell !

1. Turkcell

Turkcell is the leading mobile phone operator in Turkey and it is easy to see why. With the best internet coverage out of the 3 mobile phone operators in Turkey, Turkcell is the best sim card to get on your Turkey trip.

When looking at the coverage map above, it is easy to tell that its coverage is much stronger and more widespread than its competitor.

But how much is a Turkcell sim card? Surprisingly, after spending hours of scouting around Istanbul for our own sim card on our trip, we found that Turkcell is conveniently the cheapest of the three options as well.

We spent about 220 TL for 20 GB of data with calls included (which is something we didn’t even know was included) at a shop in the Taksim neighborhood of Istanbul. All sim card plans in Turkey are for a 30-day period.

There is no guarantee that you will find the same price as us because the prices vary depending on the store. Near Sultanahmet (the most touristy part of Istanbul), the same Turkcell sim card was for ~350 TL.

2. Vodafone

Vodafone is the second-most popular mobile operator company in Turkey . Many of you might already know Vodafone since it is a big British multinational telecommunication company. They have services in Asia, Africa, Europe and Oceania.

Vodafone Turkey used to be called Telsim until it was incorporated by the Vodafone group in 2005.

As you can see from the coverage map, a sim card from Vodafone is almost as good as one from Turkcell. In the touristic places of Turkey such as Istanbul and Cappadocia, you will find no issues with Vodafone.

But if you intend on stepping off the beaten path in Turkey, then we recommend that you get a Turkcell sim card.

From our experience, the price of a Vodafone sim card was also more than that of one from Turkcell. The lowest price we can find for a 20 GB Vodafone sim card was about 250 TL (at the time of writing).

Your result might vary depending on which city you are buying it from and whether you are in a touristy area or not.

Vodafone Tourist Welcome Pack

If you have been doing your research on prepaid sim cards for tourists in Turkey, you might come across an extraordinary offer from Vodafone. That is the Vodafone exclusive Prepaid sim card tourist welcome pack .

For only 40 Turkish Liras, tourists can get 20 GB of data, 750 minutes of calls, 1000 SMS, and unlimited messaging via WhatsApp for 28 days. We are sad to announce that this offer is misleading/false . We went to multiple Vodafone stores in Istanbul and none of the shops would honor the offer.

They said that the offer is only valid for recharging, but doesn’t include the sim card itself. You could use that offer, but you would have to first buy a sim card first (which already comes with data, minutes, and messages).

If you try purchasing it online here , the site goes to an error page. You are more welcome to try your luck, but just don’t get your hopes up!

3. Turk Telekom

Turk Telekom is a formerly state-owned Turkish telecommunications company. In terms of coverage, it is severely lacking when compared to Turkcell and Vodafone.

Its mobile service in touristy destinations is decent, but you can forget about it once you get off the top places to visit in Turkey.

If you plan on visiting the eastern side of the country, then you might not even get any service, let alone a 4G connection.

We don’t recommend Turk Telekom unless you are staying in the majority of your days in Istanbul or the other big cities of Turkey.

From our experience, a Turk Telekom sim card is about the same price as one for Vodafone, at around 250 TL for 20 GB.

Getting A Turkey Sim Card In Istanbul Airport (IST)

Can you get a Turkey sim card in Istanbul Airport (IST), the new airport of Istanbul? The answer is YES!

Matter of fact, the moment you exit the luggage claim, you will find all three mobile phone operating companies at your service.

The prices of the prepaid sim cards for tourists are a lot higher (about 50% more from our experience) than what you’d normally find in the city, but if you are someone that needs to get connected right away, then you can do so at the Istanbul airport.

Since it is quite a difficult journey to get from the Istanbul Airport to the historic center of Istanbul via public transportation, getting a sim card will give you internet access to help guide your way.

The sim card shops in Istanbul Airport accepts card and cash (in Turkish Lira, Euros, or USD). There are currency exchanges and plenty of ATMs to take Turkish Liras out if needed.

Getting A Turkey Sim Card In Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Similar to the new Istanbul Airport on the European side, the smaller and older Istanbul SAW Airport (Sahbika Gokcen International Airport) also has sim cards for sale.

In fact, all three of the mobile phone operator companies are located in the Arrivals Hall of the airport . Being a small airport, there is only one arrival hall. The sim card companies have small kiosks inside the airport and it is very hard to miss them.

Just like the other Istanbul Airport, sim cards at the SAW Airport are much more expensive than the ones you can get in the city center.

However, if you need internet access to navigate to your accommodation in Istanbul (which is very likely), then you are free to get one!

Pocket WiFi In Turkey

If you are traveling in a group, it might be more wise and economical to get a pocket WiFi (sometimes known as portable WiFi). A pocket WiFi allows multiple devices to connect to the internet, so you can save the time and headache of getting multiple sim cards.

The only disadvantage of getting a pocket WiFi instead of a sim card is not having a local number. Having a local sim card gives you a number that you can use for any Turkey-specific apps, such as BiTaksi (a cheaper Uber alternative), Yemeksepeti (food delivery app) and more. Though these apps claim to work with foreign numbers, we found otherwise.

Pocket WiFi also tends to have a shorter duration, so it might not be viable for those backpacking Turkey.

Nonetheless, for lots of travelers out there. A portable WiFi might be a better alternative than getting a sim card. They usually have unlimited data, which is perfect for those that might want to stream something online on one of Turkey’s long-distance buses.

There are plenty of places where you can get a pocket WiFi, but we recommend doing it as soon as you arrive at the airport. That way you can return it to the same place you got it from when you get a flight back home.

eSIM For Turkey

Thanks to the latest advancements in technology, getting connected in Turkey is as easy as ever due to eSIMs. As the name suggests, eSIMs are sim cards, but they work digitally so you don’t have to go to a physical store and get a physical sim.

This means that you can get all set up before you leave for your trip to Turkey, and immediately get online the moment you step off the plane.

In fact, we quite like getting an eSIM when we are traveling around the world, especially to countries where tourists are likely to be scammed when buying a sim card (such as Turkey). The eSIMs have a variety of data packages and are all valid for 30 days, perfect for all types of travelers.

It is easy to activate, all you need to do is purchase the eSIM online, activate it on your phone, and you are all set! However, eSIMs don’t give you a local number, which you might want.

Tips For Getting A Tourist Sim Card In Turkey

Getting a sim card might seem like an easy procedure. You just go to somewhere that seels sim cards, buy one, pop it in your phone, and voila! Unfortunately, it isn’t this simple in real life.

Here are some tips you’ll need before getting your prepaid sim card in Turkey:

• Bring Your Passport! – Turkey requires that all sim cards are registered to passports, so make sure you bring your actual passport or else you won’t be able to get one. A copy of the passport is fine in some places, but we recommend taking your actual one instead.
• The Sim Card Can Take A While To Activate – Once you have paid for your sim card and inserted it into your phone, it takes about 15 minutes to an hour to activate on their end. This means it might not be a good idea to get one at the airport, unless you don’t mind waiting for an hour.
• Keep The Packaging Of Your Prepaid Turkey Sim Card – Your Turkish Prepaid Sim Card comes with a 4-digit PIN that is required every time you put it into your phone. If you don’t have this PIN, then you won’t be able to use your sim card. (You can also just take a photo of the PIN)
• Browse Around For The Best Price – If you are purchasing a sim card in Turkey, then you should go to a few shops and see what the prices are. From our experience, it seems like different shops offer different prices for the same package. However, it is not possible to haggle.

Turkey Sim Card FAQs

Is there free wifi in turkey, especially in the airports, what is the best sim card in istanbul, do i need a sim card for turkey.

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In conclusion, we highly recommend you to purchase your Turkey sim card in the city instead of the airports to save money. However, if your budget isn’t tight and you don’t mind spending more than you need to, then feel free to get a sim card at the airport!

Any questions? Leave them in the comments!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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Guide: How to Buy a Tourist SIM Card in Istanbul

If you’re visiting Istanbul and want to stay connected with your loved ones, getting a tourist prepaid SIM card is a great option. Here are the detailed instructions on how not to lost in Istanbul Airport and Istanbul without the Internet!

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Can I Get Free Wi-Fi in Istanbul?

While you don’t have a SIM card, you can still use Wi-Fi to stay connected. Many cafes, restaurants , and hotels offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. You can also find Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the city, including in parks and public squares. There is free Wi-Fi available at Istanbul airport. To connect, search for the Wi-Fi network “IST-Wi-Fi” on your device and follow the instructions to connect. The Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, including in the departure and arrival areas. Some popular locations for free Wi-Fi include Starbucks, McDonald’s, and KFC. You can also find free Wi-Fi in some public parks, such as Gezi Park and Yildiz Park.

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How much is the tourist sim card in istanbul.

By 2024, the price of the tourist sim card in Istanbul will be about 800 TL. You can’t buy a local sim card, you would need a Tourist Welcome pack, and this costs more. But we’ve got you covered. Here are the prices and popular operators you can choose from!

Note, that prices for sim cars in Istanbul are very variable. What is in one place would cost the standard amount of money you would find on the official website, and would cost twice or more in the other stores, especially in the airports!

Turkcell – Welcome Tourists with the Exclusive “Tourist Welcome Package”

Turkcell is delighted to offer a special package tailored for travelers – the “Tourist Welcome Package.” This package is exclusively available to foreign passport holders who purchase a Turkcell prepaid SIM card.

Included in this package:

• 20 GB of data
• 200 minutes for local calls
• Unlimited messaging with WhatsApp & BiP via your SIM card
• Bonus discounts at restaurants, hotels, car rentals, and more.

Validity: The “Tourist Welcome Package” from Turkcell is valid for 30 days and will be deactivated after 3 months from the date of purchase.

For more information and the latest prices, please visit the official Turkcell website. Prices at airport stores can go up to 2000 TL. The standard price is around 800 TL.

Vodafone Turkey – “Welcome to Turkey Package”

Vodafone Turkey, a leading mobile provider, offers an exclusive tourist package for prepaid SIM cards known as the “Welcome to Turkey Package.”

• Vodafone’s Prepaid Tourist SIM Card with 20 GB of data
• Unlimited WhatsApp usage
• 750 minutes for local calls

Validity: This plan is valid for 28 days, and you can use your prepaid tourist SIM card for a total of 90 days. After that, it will be deactivated.

For detailed information and the most up-to-date prices, please check the official Vodafone website. Prices at the airport can reach up to 1890 TL. The standard price is around 1 000 TL.

Türk Telekom – “Welcome” Package

Türk Telekom welcomes tourists with its special SIM card package called “Hoş geldin” (Welcome).

Package Details: The “Hoş geldin” 25GB package includes 25 GB of data, 750 minutes for local calls, and 750 SMS.

Validity: Türk Telekom SIM Cards are valid for 28 days.

For more details, please visit the official Türk Telekom website. Prices at the airport can go up to 850 TL.

Important Note: If you decide to purchase a prepaid SIM card in Turkey, you’ll need to show your valid passport as the SIM card will be registered in your name. The standard price of the Turk Telecom sim card would be around 700-900 TL.

Don’t Miss The Best Tours and Cruises in Istanbul

Step-by-step guide on how to buy a turkish simcard, step 1: choose your network provider.

There are three major network providers in Turkey – Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. You can choose any of them based on your preference and budget. We recommend Turk Telecom.

Step 2: Locate a store

You can find the stores of these network providers at the airport, shopping malls, or in the city center: there are a lot of them, and all of them are official even if it doesn’t seem so because of their appearance.

At Istanbul airport and Sabiha Gökcen airport, you will see mobile internet provider shops of Turkey such as Turkcell, Turk Telekom, and Vodafone. However, it’s worth noting that the prices at these stores can be higher than at stores in the city center. You can use Google Maps or ask locals for directions.

Step 3: Bring your passport

You need to bring your passport with you to the store. This is required by Turkish law to register your SIM card.

Step 4: Choose a prepaid plan and check prices

To buy a tourist prepaid SIM card in Turkish, you can say “Turist SIM kartı” (pronounced “toorist sim kart”) which translates to “tourist SIM card.” They will understand you.

The network provider will offer you different prepaid plans with various data limits and validity periods. Prices will vary depending on the provider and the plan you choose (about . Make sure to ask the store personnel about the prices and choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

Step 5: Purchase the SIM card

After choosing your prepaid plan, the network provider will give you a SIM card. You will also need to pay for the plan at this time.

Step 6: Register your SIM card

The store personnel will help you register your SIM card by entering your passport information into their system.

Step 7: Activate your SIM card

Once your SIM card is registered, the store personnel will activate it for you. You can then start using your phone with your new prepaid plan.

Roaming with Vodafone

If you use Vodafone as your network provider, you may be able to use your prepaid plan in other countries as well, including Turkey. Vodafone offers free roaming for certain plans in some countries, but it’s best to check with the store personnel to confirm if your plan includes this feature.

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2024 Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack

We understand the need for uninterrupted communication and internet services for tourists visiting Turkey. And that’s why we are pleased to provide detailed information on the Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack , a reliable, high-quality, and affordable solution for all your communication needs while traveling in Turkey.

Turkey Sim Card for Tourists

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, one of your top considerations should be staying connected. The Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack comes with a Turkey sim card specially designed for tourists. Starting at just 20 dollars, these packs are affordable and offer a range of benefits.

The sim cards are easy to install and come with detailed instructions in English, ensuring a smooth start for your Turkish journey. With superior coverage across Turkey, you’ll never have to worry about losing connection, whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Istanbul or the tranquil beaches of Antalya.

Moreover, the Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack doesn’t just offer calling services. You also get high-speed internet and messaging services, making it easier for you to stay in touch with your loved ones, share your experiences on social media, and navigate your way through new cities using online maps.

How to Check Data Balance in Turkcell?

Monitoring your data usage is essential when using a sim card in a foreign country. Turkcell makes it easy for you to check your data balance. All you need to do is dial *123# and press the call button. You will receive an instant SMS with details about your remaining data balance.

The process is straightforward and ensures you are always aware of your data usage. In case you’re running low, you can easily top up your balance using Turkcell’s easy and secure online services.

Whether you’re using the internet for navigation, to upload your travel pictures, or to stay in touch with family and friends, the Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack and its easy balance check feature ensure a seamless experience.

Turkcell Balance Check

Alongside data balance, keeping track of your calling and messaging balance is equally important. Just like data balance, you can check your call and message balance by dialing *123# and pressing the call button. You will receive an SMS with detailed information about your remaining balance.

Turkcell’s system is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring you can easily navigate through their services without any language barriers. The balance information is available in English, ensuring all tourists can understand and manage their communication needs effectively.

The simplicity of the Turkcell balance check service ensures you are never caught off guard and can plan your communication needs efficiently.

Turkcell Internet Packages

If you’re an internet-savvy traveler, Turkcell’s internet packages are a perfect choice. The Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack offers internet packages starting at just 50 TL per week, making it an incredibly affordable option for tourists.

The packages are designed to cater to various needs – whether you need the internet for light browsing and emails or high-definition video streaming. With high-speed 4G and extensive coverage, Turkcell ensures a smooth and fast internet experience no matter where you are in Turkey.

The process to activate the internet packages is straightforward and can be done directly from your mobile phone. This way, you can always stay connected and enjoy your trip without any worries.

How to Know My Turkcell Number?

Forgetting your new mobile number is a common issue among tourists. Turkcell has addressed this issue by making it extremely easy to find out your mobile number. Just dial *134# from your Turkcell sim, and you will receive an instant message with your mobile number.

Knowing your mobile number is crucial when you are traveling. It allows you to share your contact details with local friends, services, or in case of any emergencies. The Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack ensures you have easy access to your mobile number at all times.

With all these features and benefits, the Turkcell Tourist Welcome Pack is your best companion for staying connected while enjoying the beautiful sights and experiences that Turkey has to offer.

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Prepaid SIM card for your holiday

Apply for Tourist SIM Card by filling out the form below

Get your SIM or e-SIM from nearest Vodafone shop

Activate your SIM in seconds and get your Welcome to Turkey Pack

Start using your allowance

Tourist prepaid sim card for your holiday.

Get your prepaid SIM card or e-SIM from nearest Vodafone Shop (incl. Airport Shops). You can apply Vodafone tourist SIM card by filling out the form below. After activating your SIM card or e-SIM, you can get your Welcome to Turkey Pack in Vodafone shop.

Apply now for the Vodafone Tourist SIM Card

You can apply now for Vodafone Tourist SIM Card by filling out the form and get your SIM card from nearest Vodafone shop.

*Zorunlu alanlar

I agree that the information I share is processed to the required extent and for a sufficient period of time and shared with third party business partners authorized by Vodafone in order to present the most suitable offer for my needs.

Başvuru formunda belirttiğiniz bilgileriniz, 6563 sayılı Elektronik Ticaretin Düzenlenmesi Hakkında Kanun uyarınca siz ticari elektronik ileti almayı reddedene kadar, Vodafone Telekomünikasyon AŞ ve Vodafone Net İletişim Hizmetleri AŞ’nin ticari işletmelere özel ürün, hizmet, kampanyalarının tarafınıza tanıtım ve pazarlamasının yapılması amacıyla tarafınıza SMS, arama ve e-posta gönderilmesi amaçlarıyla işlenecektir. Ticari elektronik ileti iznini dilediğiniz zaman Vodafone müşterisi iseniz IPTAL yazıp 5203’e ücretsiz SMS göndererek, Vodafone müşterisi değilseniz İleti Yönetim Sistemi web sitesi ( iys.org.tr ) üzerinden giriş yaparak ücretsiz olarak Vodafone’dan ticari elektronik ileti izninize ret verebilirsiniz veyahut size gönderilen SMS, arama veya e-postada belirtilen iptal yöntemiyle ücretsiz olarak geri alabilirsiniz.

Why Vodafone Tourist SIM Card?

Wide Vodafone network quality

In the Welcome to Turkey package, 20 GB internet valid domestically, unlimited Whatsapp (including calling feature ) , Telegram and Facebook Messenger, 1 week unlimited Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, 750 minutes and 250 SMS

International calling additional packages at advantageous prices

Not having to reload with 3-month package

U ninterrupted communication without changing physical card with e-sim

Terms&Conditions

Tourist Starter Package

• Tourist Starter Package will be available to foreign subscribers coming with newline.
• Valid for newline only.
• Vodafone reserves the right to make changes in the tariff by notifying BTK within the framework of legal rules.
• New Easy Tariff campaign will be used to activate the Tourist Starter Package.
• VAT and ÖIV are included in the specified fees. The price stated is the recommended price.

Click for tourist starter package.

How do I get an e-SIM card for Turkey as a tourist?

To get an e-SIM card for Turkey, you’ll need to check if your device is compatible with e-SIM. Vodafone offers both physical SIM card and e-SIM to their customers in Welcome to Turkey Pack. You can take your e-SIM from Vodafone Shops.

What is e-SIM card?

An e-SIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM that is build into a device such as smartphone or smartwatch. It eliminates the need for a physical SIM card and allows for greater flexibility. E-SIM cards are available in Turkey and are supported by Vodafone.

What is a travel sim?

A travel SIM is a type of SIM card that is designed to be used by travelers. It typically provides international roaming services, allowing the user to access local mobile networks while traveling abroad. This means that the users can use their phone as they would in their home country, without incurring additional charges or having to change SIM cards. Travel SIMs often offer competitive rates and packages, making them a cost-effective option for international travelers.

Sim card that works in Turkey

A SIM card that works in Turkey would be a local SIM card that is issued by a mobile network operator in Turkey. These SIM cards can be purchased and activated in Turkey, and will allow the user to make and receive calls, send texts, and access the internet. It's important to note that if you are planning to travel to Turkey, you should check with your mobile network operator to see if they have any roaming agreements with Turkish network operators, as this may be a more cost-effective option than purchasing a local SIM card. Also, make sure that your device is unlocked and is compatible with the Turkish networks' frequencies.

Who can buy a prepaid sim card for tourists

Prepaid SIM cards for tourists can be purchased by anyone who is visiting a country and plans to use their mobile phone while they are there. These SIM cards are typically available at airports, phone shops, and other retail outlets. Some countries have regulations that require tourists to provide proof of identity and address in order to purchase a SIM card. However, in many countries, SIM cards can be purchased with minimal documentation, or even without any documentation at all. In some cases, it's also possible to purchase a prepaid SIM card online before arriving at a destination. Tourists should check the regulations of the country they are visiting before arriving, to ensure they are able to purchase a SIM card and know what documents are needed.

How to get tourist sim card in Turkey

To get a tourist SIM card in Turkey, you will need to visit a mobile phone operator store. You will need to provide your passport and a local address, such as your hotel or hostel. You can then choose from a variety of prepaid or postpaid plans, depending on your needs. Be sure to check for any special deals or packages that may be available for tourists. Keep in mind that you may need to activate your SIM card by providing a local contact number or by making a small deposit.

How does a prepaid sim card work

A prepaid SIM card is a type of SIM card that allows you to pay for the services you use in advance. These cards are typically sold in specific denominations and the balance on the card is used to pay for services such as phone calls, text messages, and data usage. When you purchase a prepaid SIM card, you will need to activate it by providing your personal information, such as your name and passport number. Once activated, you can use the card to make calls and send messages until the balance is depleted. You can reload or top-up the card by purchasing additional credit at a store or online. Prepaid SIM cards are a good option for those who want to control their spending or for travelers who want a temporary mobile phone service.

How does international sim card work

An international SIM card is a type of SIM card that allows you to use your mobile phone while traveling abroad. These cards are typically used in lieu of a local SIM card, and they allow you to make and receive calls and send and receive text messages at a lower cost than using your regular SIM card while roaming. International SIM cards work by allowing you to switch between different networks depending on your location. They come with a specific phone number, which you can give to your friends, family and work colleagues to reach you. You will need to purchase credit for the card, which can be used to pay for services such as calls, text messages, and data usage. You can top-up or reload the card as you need. Some international SIM cards also come with additional services such as call forwarding and voicemail.

How long does a prepaid sim card stay active

A prepaid SIM card will typically stay active as long as there is a credit or an active plan on the card. Most prepaid SIM cards have a certain validity period after which the card will expire if not topped up or recharged with credit. The validity period of a prepaid SIM card can vary depending on the provider and the country in which you are using the card. Vodafone offers a 90-day validity period. It's important to check the terms and conditions of your prepaid SIM card and to keep an eye on the expiry date to ensure that you can continue using the card.

How much is a sim card in Turkey

The cost of a SIM card may vary depending on the provider and the type of plan you choose. Some providers offer prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased with a small amount of credit, while others offer postpaid plans that require a deposit and a contract. It is also possible to purchase SIM cards from street vendors or small shops, but it is recommended to buy from official providers in order to avoid any issues with activation or service. Overall, the cost of a SIM card in Turkey is relatively affordable compared to many other countries.

Pay as you go sim deals

Pay-as-you-go SIM deals, also known as prepaid SIM deals, allow users to pay for their mobile phone service in advance, instead of paying a monthly bill. These types of plans are often used by individuals who do not want to be tied to a long-term contract, or by those who are traveling and need a temporary phone line. Pay-as-you-go SIMs can be purchased at many retailers and phone stores, and they can be used with both smartphones and basic mobile phones. Users typically purchase a set amount of minutes, texts, and data, and once that is used up, they can purchase more as needed. The cost of pay-as-you-go SIM deals can vary depending on the carrier and the amount of usage.

Who can buy a Prepaid SIM Card for tourist?

Tourist Prepaid SIM Card is eligible for the subscribers who has foreign passport number and declare their passports during registration process.

How much is a Tourist SIM Card (Prepaid SIM Card for tourist) in Turkey?

New SIM Card fee may vary from shop to shop.

What is New Easy Tariff?

New Easy tariff is the tariff where foreign customers can use with a passport statement. Within the scope of the tariff, no benefit is charged to the subscriber for a fixed fee, the subscribers pay as much as they use.

What is Welcome To Turkey Pack?

This package will be automatically defined to subscribers who activate a new line with the New Easy Tariff, no fee is charged.

Welcome To Turkey Pack includes allnet 750 minutes, allnet 1000 SMS, allnet 20GB, unlimited data valid for Whatsapp usage and 5 TL that can be used for radio usage tax. Package allowance is valid for 28 days.

How much is the tariff’s overage fee?

Without any available pack, the standard exceeding fees for internet: 2 Kr/100 kB voice is 68,69 Kr/60 seconds, for SMS: 49 Kr/1 unit and for MMS: 90 Kr/ 1 unit.

How long is the Tourist SIM Card valid for?

Tourist SIM Card will be deactivated automatically after 60 days. If the customers want to keep their sim cards activated, they can change their tariffs before 60 days expire by calling 542 or typing CHANGE and sending an SMS to 7000.

Prepaid Tourist SIM Türkiye

• EN Hakkımızda EN

• Travelling to Türkiye?
• Looking for an affordable tourist prepaid plan with exclusive deals?
• Get your prepaid SIM card from Turk Telekom and stay connected with all-inclusive offer

Pick a tourist plan

Get calls, texts and data when traveling Türkiye with our prepaid Tourist Welcome packages:

Tourist Welcome Packages

Free BiP and Yaay

Free WhatsApp messaging

1 week unlimited social media: X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

Click to learn about sim card fee

*Subscribers will only be able to purchase one of the "Welcome 10GB{*}", "Welcome 25GB", "Welcome 50GB" or "Welcome 75GB" packages. Subscribers who bought a package mentioned above shall not purchase another.

• Please click to know more about Welcome Packages with English subtitles
• Please click to know more about Welcome Packages with Deutsche subtitles
• Please click to know more about Welcome Packages with Arabic subtitles
• Please click to know more about Welcome Packages with Persian subtitles
• Please click to know more about Welcome Packages with Ukrainian subtitles
• Please click to know more about Welcome Packages with Russian subtitles

Come to the nearest Turk Telekom store or airport

Get a local prepaid sim card

Choose your plan and active your sim in seconds

Get access to the world of benefits

Why Turk Telekom?

Turk Telekom,

• Is the first integrated telecommunications operator in Türkiye.
• Has a wide service network and product ranges (mobile, internet, phone and TV products and services).
• Provides services in all 81 provinces of Türkiye with 34,034 employees.
• According to the Opensignal December 2021 Türkiye Mobile Network Experience Report data, Türk Telekom ranked at the top in gaming, video and audio application experiences.
• Turk Telekom has more than 5000 Wi-Fi hotspots in Türkiye and is the 2nd largest wireless network in Europe and 8th in the World, click to find the nearest hotspot to you.
• Customers who have bought a new prepaid card and declare their passports or ID cards during registration process in the last 60 days may opt-in.
• Subscribers will only be able to purchase one of the “Welcome 25GB”, “Welcome 50GB”, “Welcome 75GB” or “Welcome 10GB” packages. Subscribers who bought a package mentioned above shall not purchase another.
• Welcome 25 GB package includes 750 minutes of standard calls within Türkiye, 750 SMS of standard SMS within Türkiye, 25 GB mobile internet data valid within Türkiye and free messaging via WhatsApp for 28 days; unlimited mobile internet for using X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for 7 days. Welcome 50 GB package includes 1500 minutes of standard calls within Türkiye, 1000 SMS of standard SMS within Türkiye, 50 GB mobile internet data valid within Türkiye and free messaging via WhatsApp for 28 days; unlimited mobile internet for using X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for 7 days. Welcome 75 GB package includes 750 minutes of standard calls within Türkiye, 750 SMS of standard SMS within Türkiye, 75 GB mobile internet data valid within Türkiye and free messaging via WhatsApp for 15 days; unlimited mobile internet for using X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for 7 days. Welcome 10 GB package includes 250 minutes of standard calls within Türkiye, 250 SMS of standard SMS within Türkiye and 10 GB mobile internet data valid within Türkiye for 7 days.
• Packages will not be automatically renewed after the validity period has expired.
• WhatsApp free messaging covers messaging, photo, video, audio file, voice message applications and all file sending supported by WhatsApp application. It does not cover the call service of WhatsApp. Any internet content that can be accessed via an external link shared on WhatsApp (web pages, YouTube videos, location services such as Google maps, etc.) is not included.
• Except for Mobil Ofis, Faturasız Bayi, Katlayan, Standart, Jet, TV8, BIMCELL, PTTCELL, Teknosacell tariffs, customers on individual prepaid tariffs who purchase a new SIM card within the last 60 days can benefit from this offer.
• Subscribers shall make a request of registration by sending an SMS, calling customer service or register directly from the dealers.
• For customers to purchase the package, they must have a balance of at least the package amount. In case of insufficient balances of the customers, they must top up using the relevant Türk Telekom sales channels. In case of insufficient balance, balance inquiry will be made for 27 days for Welcome 25GB, and Welcome 50GB packages, 14 days for Welcome 75GB package and 6 days for Welcome 10GB package.Unless a package cancellation is made and when the customer's balance reaches a sufficient level, the top-up payment will be made by deducting the package amount.
• Benefits included in the package cannot be transferred to third parties.
• In the tariff, we use 60/60 second billing increment.
• When you activate your prepaid SIM card, you accept the use of the domestic 4.5G service. As a result of BTK authorization, our customers will use the domestic 4.5G service as long as they own an appropriate SIM Card and Device. Our customers will be able to cancel the service any time.
• The minutes, SMS and data usage rights offered within the scope of the package are only valid for domestic use.
• Extra data cost is 2KR/100KB.
• Excludes the TRNC and overseas use. The free calls within the scope of the package include 3-digit calls starting with 444 and starting with 1 and video calls. The standard conditions of the tariff regarding the SMS and call will apply outside the included service.
• Billing increment in 100 KB steps. The standard conditions of the tariff will apply outside the included service.
• SCT and radio license fee is charged at the new line facility.
• Radio usage fee is charged separately.
• All prices indicated are inclusive of VAT-SCT. TT Mobil İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş. reserves the right to change the package price.
• The mobile telecommunication services provided by TT Mobil İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş. will continue under the Türk Telekom® brand from now on.

Standard Call and SMS Coverage

• The minutes, SMS and data usage rights offered within the scope of the package are only valid for national use.
• Excludes the TRNC and overseas use.

Pricing Period

• 60/60 billing increment. Billing increment in 100 KB steps. TT Mobil İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş. reserves the right to change any price/fee.

Information on TL Top-Up

• Click to learn about these channels.
• Click to top-up TL to your SIM card with a credit card.

Registration Request, Balance Inquiry Short Codes via SMS

You can get your Tourist Prepaid SIM Card from our dealers at the airport or from our nearest Turk Telekom stores.

You can choose your package at the same time by activating your Tourist SIM Card, or you can buy the package later via SMS.

Welcome 25GB and Welcome 50GB packages will be valid for 28 days, Welcome 75GB package will be valid for 15 days and Welcome 10GB package will be valid for 7 days. They are one time only and will not be renewed in the following months.

Minute and SMS package excesses are charged over the current tariff, and your mobile internet package excesses will be charged as 2KR/100KB.

To check the balance enquiry, you can type keywords in the table below and send an SMS to 5555 or click

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Turkcell tourism welcome pack sim 20GB for 315 TL in Kadikoy - Istanbul Forum

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Turkcell tourism welcome pack sim 20GB for 315 TL in Kadikoy

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23 replies to this topic

To be honest this seems to be the going rate in other parts of Turkey as well. In Turkey SIMs are not included in the 'package' and there is an extra charge unlike the UK where you can pick up a SİM for nothing anywhere. Often a set up fee is also charged. So not really duped. The whole lot has cost you around 16 quid which must be far cheaper than using your home SIM and pay the roaming charges ;o)

That's true. I did get it at the end just coz of that reason but because of the language personally for me it's not clear what i paid for and hence the question? I'll keep the discussion open for anyone having the same thought or experience. Thanks vipfamily.

"As of 10.01.2022, the recommended price of the Tourist Welcome Pack introduction kit has been revised as 289.80 TL. In addition to the opening taxes for our customers who buy a line with the Tourist Welcome Pack, the one-time Service Fee at the time of opening will be 112.05 TL."

So in total about 400 TL.

https://www.turkcell.com.tr/kampanyalar/yeni-turkcell-musterisi/tourist-welcome-pack

But inflation is huge in Turkey...

@PS is this a straightforward process, how long did it take to set it up in the shop?

Interested in this as well for our upcoming trip, thank you.

Hi, I just landed in Izmir and got quoted 500 TL from Turkcell in one shop. The 2nd Turkcell shop offered the same deal for 350 TL but when I went to pay they wanted cash, which I didn't have.....strange how they knocked back Mastercard and visa, which is used all over the world. Ended up going to Vodafone and payed 289 TL......by Mastercard lol

Looks like it's gone up quite a bit now.

Link to Turkcell website FAQ:

790TL for the pack and another 288TL for the service fee.

May be worth investigating whether an esim is compatible with your handset and offers what you need. Many use and recommend airalo

https://www.airalo.com/

That is an astonishingly high price for what you are getting. They would be as well withdrawing the offer if it is too expensive to operate. That works out at nearly £50 for 20 GB of data, lol.

315 lr is actually only £13.06 at current exchange rates?

I brought a travelsim last may, can I just top up last year's SIM card?

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