9 Cultural Etiquette Tips Every Visitor Should Know in Turkey
Visiting a new country without knowing its culture might make you feel out of place. Planning a trip to Turkey? But don’t know how to blend in? Read the following guide to get a sense of the cultural etiquette of Turkey.
Turkey is one of such countries that shares two continents - Europe and Asia. Naturally, you will find the country being influenced by both European and Asian cultures. Besides, the country’s majority of people are Muslim, making Islamic cultural etiquette a part of the regular life of people.
Top cultural etiquettes of Turkey: Every visitor must know
Religious ways of greeting a person when meeting for the first time, or eating with the right hand (and not using the left hand to pass the food bowl), etc., are special things to know. If you know these small things before you visit Turkey, you will have a truly amazing experience in Turkey.
So, let’s start discussing the top cultural etiquettes of Turkey.
1. Greeting Makes the First Impression
Turkish people are warm and welcoming, and so is their greeting culture. But it is slightly different from the Western greeting culture. Here, men greet each other with a firm handshake while looking straight into the eyes. But it gets a bit sensitive when greeting a woman. You either wait for her to extend her hand or place your hand over your heart and gently bow. The latter one is more traditional and reflects your respect for the lady in a beautiful way.
At the same time, the Turkish people view personal space differently. It is very natural to see people of the same gender walking hand in hand. But touching people from opposite genders is only allowed between persons in the family and in close relations.
2. Hospitality Matters a Lot
Next is hospitality, and it is an important part of the Turkey country’s culture. Turkish hospitality is world famous, and in this culture, people believe that guests are blessings from God. So, they treat their guests with warmth and generosity to make the guests feel genuine care.
When you visit Turkey, you will see such iconic hospitality extending to even the street vendors and shops.
It is very common in Turkey to be offered tea or coffee while you are out shopping in the streets. If you get invited to a Turkish home, you will experience the true hospitality of the Turkish people.
3. Don't Ever Refuse Tea or Coffee
Turkish tea and coffee are more than beverages in the country; they are a significant part of Turkish people and culture. It is customary to offer Tea to the guests in Turkish culture. The traditional aromatic tea comes in beautiful glasses. Taking a sip from the cup instantly gives a refreshing feeling.
Turkish coffee is deeply intertwined with its culture. Traditionally, coffee is served after a meal, and the tradition says that the one who prepares the coffee has to serve others. The real beauty of the custom lies in appreciating the preparation of coffee and making the host proud.
4. Bring Gifts if Invited to a Turkish Home
According to the Turkey country culture, you should bring gifts when invited to a Turkish home. If you have been invited to a home, bring small gifts such as pastries, baklava, flowers, or some chocolates. Better not bring alcohol (as accepted in the European culture) to a home you have been invited to for the first time. But if you know the host for a long time, then you might consider bringing alcoholic beverages.
However, no matter what you gift, don't bring expensive things, as it might embarrass your host. The price of the gift does not matter; what matters is the warmth of your gesture. So, express your gratitude to your host by giving the gift with both hands.
5. Keep Shoes Outside
Unlike Western and European cultures, Turkish people prefer to keep their shoes outside the room. When you have been invited to a home, remember to keep your shoes outside. Also, when you are entering a mosque or any religious place, keep your shoes outside.
In Turkey, people keep their shoes outside as a way of keeping the inside fresh and clean. It allows you to keep the dirt outside of your room or holy places.
6. Dress Properly While Staying in Turkey
You can identify Turkish people and their culture from the unique clothes they wear. The Turks have a distinct way of wearing clothes that gives them a unique identity. An appropriate dressing following the Turkish way reflects your respect for the Turkish people and culture.
If you plan to visit a Mosque, you (both men and women) must cover your shoulders, arms, and legs totally. Head coverings for women are suitable but not mandatory. You may find scarves offered by most mosques to complete your dressing.
However, if you have come to Turkey for work or business deals, you can choose to wear Western dresses. Make sure your dressing reflects a conservative approach.
7. Religious Influence
Turkey does not have an official religion, but its daily lifestyle is influenced by Islamic practices. During the prayers, you will see that the business activities stop for a while. You are expected to show some respect for the customs and wait a bit till the prayer is over.
During Ramadan, most of the shops might be closed. During the day, restaurants might not be open as well, because eating heavily is considered insensitive. Even when local people are not observing Ramadan, they do not eat publicly; it is a sign of respect for the Turkish people and their culture.
8. Respect for Family
Turkey country and culture values family a lot. Asking about the family of the Turkish people is the perfect conversation starter. If you meet local people and ask about their family, it shows that you care for the family and are genuinely interested in the person's well-being.
You will also see that elderly people in Turkey get special treatment in society. Remember to offer your seat to an elderly person if you see any of them standing in public transport.
9. Don't Waste Food and Eat with Your Hands
Food is a pivotal part of the Turkish culture. Here, bread is considered sacred. When you sit at the table eating bread, break it with your hands and do not flip it upside down. Also, share the bread with others sitting at the table. It is symbolic of creating bonds between people at dinner.
Most importantly, don't start eating until the host or the elder person at the table starts eating. It is customary for the Turks to start eating when the host starts eating. Don't refuse a second food offering, and don't leave food on the plate.
Important Tips to Remember Before Visiting Turkey
Before you plan for a trip to Turkey, keep the following things in mind:
- Apply for a Turkey visa and keep a printout of the same
- Learn some common phrases in local language to blend in with the local people
- Stay away from political or religious discussions
Planning a Trip to Turkey? Learn About the Culture First.
Visiting Turkey becomes easier when you know about its culture. You will feel like you belong to the culture if you know how Turkish people welcome guests and how they dress. So, apply for the Turkey visa to get a smooth traveling experience to the country.
Check your eligibility for Turkey Visa and apply for Turkey e-Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. Armenian Citizens, Afghan citizens, Bhutanese citizens and Taiwanese citizens can apply online for Electronic Turkey Visa.