Practical Things to Know Before Visiting Alanya
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A little local know-how makes any holiday smoother. You've sorted your entry requirements and connectivity — here are the remaining bits and pieces worth knowing before you visit Alanya: the time difference, money, etiquette and a few cultural touches that help you fit right in.
The time difference
Turkey is ahead of the UK — by 2 hours in summer and 3 hours in winter. The reason: Turkey stays on GMT+3 all year and doesn't change its clocks, while the UK shifts between GMT and BST. So when you land, put your watch forward 2 or 3 hours depending on the season. It's a small thing, but worth setting your phone to update automatically so you don't miss breakfast or a transfer.
Money in a nutshell
Turkey uses the Turkish lira (TRY). Cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, and while some places take euros or pounds, paying in lira gives the best value. Carry some cash for small shops, markets, tips and the dolmuş. We cover money in depth — see how much cash to take, using your UK card, and tipping.
Where in the world is Turkey?
Turkey straddles Europe and Asia, with Alanya on the southern Mediterranean coast. It's not in the EU or the Schengen area, which is handy — time here doesn't count against any Schengen allowance. It's a long-established, welcoming holiday destination, and Alanya in particular is well used to British visitors. On safety, see our honest take: is Alanya safe?
Language
Turkish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in the tourist areas, so you'll get by easily. A few Turkish words are a lovely courtesy though — see basic Turkish phrases.
Etiquette & culture
Turks are famously warm and hospitable, and a little respect goes a long way:
- Mosque visits: dress modestly — covered shoulders and knees, and a headscarf for women; remove shoes before entering. Avoid visiting during prayers.
- Hospitality: being offered çay (tea) is a friendly gesture; accepting graciously is appreciated.
- Haggling: normal and expected in the bazaars and with market traders, but not in fixed-price shops, malls or restaurants.
- Dress: beachwear is fine at the resorts and beach, but cover up a little when wandering into town centres or local areas.
- Tipping: appreciated but not obligatory — see do you tip in Turkey?
A few more handy bits
- Emergencies: the number is 112 — see what to do if ill or injured.
- Tap water: stick to bottled — see can you drink the tap water?
- Sun: it's strong — pack proper protection. See staying safe in the sun.
- Pharmacies (eczane): excellent for minor ailments — see pharmacies in Alanya.
- Plug adapter: European two-pin — see what adapter you need.
Frequently asked questions
What is the time difference between the UK and Turkey?
Turkey is ahead — by 2 hours in British summer time and 3 hours in winter. Turkey stays on GMT+3 all year and doesn't change its clocks, while the UK does, so the gap shifts between 2 and 3 hours.
What currency is used in Alanya?
The Turkish lira (TRY). Some tourist places take euros or pounds, but paying in lira gives the best value, and cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
Is Turkey in Europe, and is Alanya safe?
Turkey straddles Europe and Asia and isn't in the EU or Schengen. Alanya is a long-established, welcoming destination considered safe for tourists, with the usual sensible precautions.
What should I know about etiquette?
Turks are warm and hospitable. Dress modestly at mosques, accept offered tea graciously, and note that haggling is normal in bazaars but not in fixed-price shops.
For everything to sort before you go, see our entry requirements guide and Alanya practical info guide. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're local and happy to help.
