1. Google Translate
A translation app will be your best friend when it comes to navigating Turkey, where Turkish is often the only language spoken. You can speak directly into Google Translate and have it read out a translation, and the app can even decipher text in photos. It’s particularly handy for translating menus and museum texts, and a good tool to have in your pocket in case you ever need to ask someone for help.
2. XE Currency
Turkey’s local currency is the Turkish lira (TRY), which has fluctuated notorious the last few years. Keep tabs on the exchange rate so you always know how much you’re paying. This app is especially handy if you need to change cash often and want to makes sure you’re getting a favorable rate.
3. Getir
If you’re craving a late-night snack, don’t feel like dining out, or are feeling under the weather, you can get anything delivered to your hotel or apartment with Getir. Most restaurants, supermarkets, and corner stores are connected to Getir, and the company even has mini-warehouses stocked with essentials, foods, and toiletries dotted around every city.
4. IETT
Your phone’s map app is a good start for getting around, but if you’ll be relying on public transport in Istanbul, consider downloading the IETT app. It has real-time schedules and a route planner, so you can be sure your bus is actually on the way.
5. Pegasus
Turkish Airlines may be Turkey’s flagship carrier, but budget airline Pegasus has some of the best flight deals. Get notified of promotional fares to countless destinations all over the country with the Pegasus app. These deals can come and go quickly, so opting in to their push notifications can be worth it.
6. Obilet
If you’re more keen on bus travel, Obilet is the best way to search for and book intercity coach buses. It aggregates routes from all the major bus companies, and makes it easier to find exactly the route you’re looking for.
7. Otelz
While most hotel booking sites will allow you to book accommodation in Turkey when you’re abroad, due to legal restrictions you might need a VPN to see all listings once you’re in Turkey. Avoid this hassle altogether by using a local platform like Otelz.com – you’re likely to find more competitive prices as well.
8. Tureng
Sometimes Google Translate doesn’t quite get the nuance of Turkish phrasing and will translate phrases too literally. (For example, imam bayıldı, a popular dish of roasted eggplant topped with tender meat, will translate to “the imam fainted.”) Tureng is a Turkish to English dictionary that can help you decipher words that more automated translation apps struggles with.
9. Müzekart
Understanding the different tiers of “museum passes” can get a little bit complicated. These passes get you get discounted entry to the countless historical sites and museums across the country. With the Müzekart app, all that information is in one place, and you won’t have to keep track of your paper ticket.
10. Red Bull MOBILE Data app
Stay connected during your trip to Turkey and avoid roaming fees with the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM. This SIM card is downloaded digitally – no need to physically install anything. You can connect to data as soon as you land, without needing to track down a SIM card seller. Even better, you won’t have to worry about downloading offline maps or struggling to find Wi-Fi hotspots. With the Red Bull MOBILE Data app, you can manage your eSIM package whenever you want. If you decide to stay longer or head elsewhere, all you have to do is log in to the app, choose a new package, and get moving!For more information on how to have data and avoid roaming charges while traveling in Turkey, check out our piece on the benefits, FAQs, and installation process for the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM.
