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Shoes off at the door

Always, always, always take your shoes off before entering a home unless otherwise directed. You can leave them outside, or you may ask if you can store them somewhere inside the home. Some will insist on you taking them off inside the home right after entering, and maybe a tiny handful will tell you to forget taking them off all together- otherwise be ready to show off your socks. At any kind of doctor’s office, they’ll give you little plastic booties to wear.

Stand up if you’re able-bodied

Give your seat to the elderly, pregnant people, or others who you think might be in need in public waiting spaces (subway, bus, bank, etc).

Tipping

When to tip 10-15%: moderately priced or expensive restaurants, food delivery- or when you’re happy with the service. Round up at cheaper restaurants, cafes, taxis, places where you’re not paying much money. If it’s not convenient to round up, it’s okay to not leave a tip. Sometimes the tip is included, so if there’s a bill you can have a look at that. See more on tipping here.

Saying hello and goodbye

It’s best to follow the lead of the other. When meeting new people, a handshake is common. With friends or acquaintances, hugs (on both “sides” of the person – you’ll understand when it happens to you) and kisses (one on each cheek) are common. Some men will do a gentle head bump with their greeting. This is never expected… but we’ll talk more about that one later.

Turkish “**** you”

Putting your thumb in between your index finger and middle finger is kind of like giving the middle finger. Careful there! (If you are curious about more offensive expressions, check out our Pagan’s Companion that comes with the Phrasebook Plus)

Hosting someone?

Offer them food or drinks, and offer more than once. They will likely refuse the first couple offers. You can refuse the first offer when being hosted too if you’d like. You’ll definitely be asked again.

At the dinner table

You will sometimes see napkins on the table rather than in people’s laps; it doesn’t matter where it goes. Wait for the host / everyone else to start eating / drinking.

During Ramadan

Some people feel more comfortable not eating on the go. Food and beverage establishments are open so people are eating there obviously, but it might feel more comfortable not to eat while you’re in another public space such as a park or while walking. It’s up to you. For more info see the religion section.

Clothing

Unless around the tourist beach areas, shorts aren’t common. They are totally fine, however in more rural areas, if you appear female, wearing clothing that covers your legs is recommended. See the religion section on how to dress in mosques.

Bargain shopping

This is only done in certain places at certain times, mostly just souvenir shopping, and buying in bulk- definitely not at restaurants or indoor shopping centers. Do not expect every merchant to consider bargaining! If you have traveled to other countries that practice bargaining, know that in Turkey there is no pushing; you ask once and no means no. You can ask for a discount, and move on if they say no. If you’re buying in bulk or buying something more expensive, you might take your time on making a decision once you’ve heard their offer. Asking again very politely is okay, but trying to talk someone into a sale or pushing the shopkeeper is definitely not advised.

Hygiene

It’s a big deal in Turkey! Blowing your nose is typically done in private. Wash your hands when you enter a home if you’ve come from a public place or taken public transportation. And although done in private and a personal preference, bidets are everywhere. If you need to do your business and the establishment has run out of toilet paper, the bidet will save you. It might just change your life, too- bidet conversion is sweeping the world and what better way to jump on board when you’ve got no other choice!

This guide is only the beginning – there’s lots to update here. Other than the business you do behind closed doors, understanding and adapting to these social norms is crucial for any visitor looking to fully engage with Turkish culture. By respecting these customs, you ensure smoother interactions and a more authentic experience whether in Turkey for days or years.