Istanbul Culture and Etiquette: Tea, Bazaars, Mosques and Everyday Life
Accept the tea, bargain politely in the bazaars, cover shoulders and knees in mosques (women also cover their hair) and take your shoes off at the door, and leave about 5–10% in restaurants. A simple “Merhaba” (hello) and “Teşekkürler” (thank you) go a long way.
Tea is an invitation
Tea (çay) is drunk all day from small tulip-shaped glasses, without milk. Shopkeepers, carpet dealers and hosts will often offer you one; accepting is polite and does not oblige you to buy. Turkish coffee is stronger and served in small cups; leave the grounds at the bottom.
Bargaining in the bazaar
In the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar prices for carpets, lamps, leather and jewellery are usually open to negotiation; in supermarkets, chain stores, restaurants and pharmacies they are fixed. Take your time, be friendly, and only start bargaining if you really want the item. Paying in cash can get you a better price. The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Visiting mosques
- Cover shoulders and knees; women also cover their hair. Most large mosques lend scarves and wraps at the entrance.
- Take off your shoes before the carpet and carry them in a bag.
- Avoid visiting during the five daily prayers, especially the Friday noon prayer; tourist entry pauses for about an hour or so.
- Speak quietly and don't walk in front of people who are praying.
Tipping
In restaurants a tip of about 5–10% is usual if service is not already included. In taxis people round up the fare. For hotel porters a small note per bag is appreciated. With our transfers tips are never expected; the price you book is the price you pay.
A few useful words
- Merhaba: hello
- Teşekkürler / Teşekkür ederim: thank you
- Lütfen: please
- Evet / Hayır: yes / no
- Ne kadar?: how much?
- Afiyet olsun: enjoy your meal
Everyday life
Istanbul is a busy, late city: shops stay open into the evening and restaurants fill up after 20:00. During Ramadan many people fast during the day and streets come alive after sunset. Public transport works with the Istanbulkart, a rechargeable card used on metro, tram, bus, Marmaray and ferries.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to buy something if a shopkeeper offers tea?
No. Offering tea is hospitality. Accepting is polite, and you are free to leave without buying.
What should I wear to visit a mosque in Istanbul?
Clothes that cover shoulders and knees; women also cover their hair. Large mosques lend scarves and wraps at the entrance, and shoes come off before the carpet.
How much should I tip in Istanbul?
About 5–10% in restaurants if service is not included, rounding up in taxis. Tips are not expected for our transfers.