Your ultimate guide to exploring and writing about Turkey
Excellent question. Knowing cultural and social taboos is key to having a respectful and smooth experience in Turkey. Here is a comprehensive list of things you should never do in Turkey, categorized for clarity.
Never Disrespect Mustafa Kemal Atatürk or Turkish Symbols.
Why: Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, is revered. Insulting him, the Turkish flag, or the national anthem (İstiklal Marşı) is not just offensive; it is a serious criminal offense (Article 301 of the Penal Code) that can lead to prosecution. Always stand respectfully if the national anthem is played.
Never Engage in Political Debates Lightly.
Why: Politics is passionate and complex. Avoid heated debates on topics like the Kurdish issue, Cyprus, or Syrian refugees unless you are with close friends in a private setting and are deeply informed. Expressing strong, uninformed opinions can cause deep offense.
Never Assume It's "Just Like" Another Country.
Why: Avoid comparisons like "This is just like Greece/Italy/Arabia." Turks are proud of their unique culture, history, and cuisine. Such comparisons can be seen as dismissive of Turkey's distinct identity.
Never Enter a Mosque Inappropriately Dressed.
What to do: Women must cover their hair, shoulders, and knees. Men must cover their knees and shoulders. Always remove your shoes. Speak quietly, never walk in front of someone praying, and never take photos of people during prayer.
Never Publicly Eat, Drink, or Smoke During Ramadan Daylight Hours in Conservative Areas.
Why: It's a sign of respect. In cosmopolitan areas like central Istanbul or beach resorts, it's more accepted, but in conservative neighborhoods or cities (e.g., Konya), avoid it out of courtesy.
Never Refuse Hospitality (Within Reason).
Why: Hospitality (misafirperverlik) is sacred. If offered tea (çay), coffee, or food in a shop or home, it is polite to accept at least one cup. Refusing outright can be seen as rude.
Never Use Your Left Hand for Eating or Passing Items if Possible.
Why: The left hand is traditionally considered unclean. While this is less rigid in modern, urban settings, it's a good practice, especially when eating with hands (like bread) or in more traditional homes.
Never Start Eating Before the Elderest Person at the Table Begins.
Why: Respect for elders is paramount. Wait for them to take the first bite or explicitly invite you to start.
Never Show the "OK" Sign (👌).
Why: This hand gesture (forming a circle with thumb and index finger) is considered a rude and offensive gesture in Turkey, akin to calling someone an a**hole.
Never Blow Your Nose Loudly at the Dinner Table.
Why: It's considered extremely rude and unhygienic. Excuse yourself and go to the bathroom.
Never Touch Someone of the Opposite Sex Without Clear Cues.
Why: In conservative settings, avoid hugs, kisses, or pats on the back unless the other person initiates. A handshake is generally safe, but wait to see if a religious woman offers her hand first. In urban, secular circles, greetings with kisses on the cheek are common.
Never Take Photos of People (Especially Women & Children) Without Permission.
Why: It's a major invasion of privacy. Always ask. This is especially critical in rural areas and when photographing military or government installations (which is illegal).
Never Jaywalk or Disrespect Traffic Rules Assumingly.
Why: Turkish traffic can be chaotic. Use pedestrian crossings but never assume cars will stop. Make eye contact with drivers. Be extremely cautious.
Never Drink Tap Water.
Why: While it's treated, the mineral content and different bacteria can cause traveler's stomach upset. Always drink bottled water.
Never Buy or Remove Antiquities from Archaeological Sites.
Why: It is illegal to take historical artifacts, stones, or pottery shards. Customs scans are vigilant, and getting caught can lead to severe fines and imprisonment.
Never Assume "No" is the Final Word in a Market.
Why: Haggling (pazarlık) is expected in bazaars (not in fixed-price shops). The initial price is often inflated. Polite negotiation is part of the social ritual. Walking away is often the best way to get the real price.
Never Publicly Criticise Someone Directly or Cause Them to "Lose Face."
Why: Saving face and maintaining personal honor (şeref) is crucial. Criticism should be delivered subtly, privately, and with great tact.
Do NOT insult Atatürk or Turkish symbols.
Do NOT enter mosques immodestly.
Do NOT make the "OK" hand gesture.
Do NOT take archaeological artifacts.
Do NOT publicly disrespect Ramadan customs in conservative areas.
By being mindful of these points, you show respect for Turkish culture and will be rewarded with even warmer hospitality and a much richer travel experience.