World of the Bible: Biblical, Christian, Jewish & Muslim Sites in Greece & Turkiye

Passport
You are kindly advised to have a travel document/passport valid for at least 6 months as from the date of your arrival in Turkey.

Currency
The monetary unit is in Turkish Lira (TL).  The exchange rates for the foreign currencies are announced daily.
1 USD = 49.92 TRY

*Please be advised that exchange rates are intended to be guidelines and cannot be considered official

Climate
Average temperature is 24°C - 75°F during May at Istanbul
Average temperature is 27°C - 80°F during May at Izmir
Average temperature is 23°C - 73°F during May at Kayseri
Average temperature is 29°C - 84°F during June at Istanbul
Average temperature is 32°C - 89°F during June at Izmir
Average temperature is 27°C - 80°F during June at Kayseri

Local Time
G.M.T +3 HOURS

Tap Water
It has been chlorinated but may have strong taste. Bottled Spring water is suggested.

Electricity
220V, AC, 50hz

Phone Calls
Automatic dialing is possible anywhere in the country. Reduced rates are applied in the evening and early mornings. For local, trunk and international calls Telephone Cards should be obtained. To make a phone call to USA, you need to dial 00-1-city code-phone number. Toll free calls are also available if you possess AT&T, MCI or similar cards.
To learn your access number, please get in touch with your guide or hotel concierge desks.

Religion
Moslem. In addition to the Mosques, Synagogues, Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches are available to the worshippers.

Credit Cards
VISA, MasterCard credit cards honored by the well-known restaurants and the stores. Please check before the purchase. American Express, Diner’s Club valid in some places, you should ask beforehand.

Shopping
Turkey participates in an international trade program (GSP) that may reduce duties on certain exports. If you purchase items made in Turkey over $500 —such as carpets or jewelry—be sure to request a certificate of origin, as this may be helpful at customs.

V.A.T
The value added tax of 10-20-23% is applied to all services & purchases.

Measures
In metric system - Kilogram and Meter

Taxi
All of the taxis have meters.

General Tipping
It is customary to tip an extra of 10% to 15% for all services delivered.

Luggage
All tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person plus one carry-on bag.

Is Turkey Safe For Tourists
Totally yes. We are thrilled to inform you that Turkey continues to be a safe and captivating destination for your next adventure. The country offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. With a rich tapestry of ancient civilizations, including awe-inspiring Roman and Christian remnants, history enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in a journey through time. Turkey's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its visitors is unwavering. Rigorous measures have been implemented to guarantee a secure environment for all travelers.

How much money should I bring?
It's always a tough question as people's spending habits vary greatly. About 100-200 USD will suffice. Your guide will assist you in converting US Dollars to Turkish Lira. ATMs in Turkey can provide additional cash if more is needed.

Time zone
Greece lies in the Eastern European Time Zone, which is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +2). Greece is max 6 hours ahead from EDT.

Currency
Greece’s currency is Euro and in most cities & islands there are currency exchange spots.

1 USD = 0.89 EUR

*Please be advised that exchange rates are intended to be guidelines and cannot be considered official

Language
The official language is Greek. English is spoken within the international tourism industry. (Most of the Greeks in big cities and at tour sites speak English. Even if they don’t, most of them will figure out the best way to help you!)

Electricity
Electricity in Greece is 220-240 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. Outlets generally accept one type of plug with 2 round pins. If your appliance plugs have a different shape, you may need a plug adapter.

Climate
Greece has a Mediterranean climate.
Average temperature is 26°C - 78°F during May at Athens
Average temperature is 26°C - 78°F during May at Thessaloniki
Average temperature is 22°C - 71°F during May at Patmos
Average temperature is 27°C - 80°F during May at Corinth
Average temperature is 25°C - 77°F during May at Delphi
Average temperature is 24°C - 75°F during May at Philippi
Average temperature is 27°C - 80°F during May at Kalambaka
Average temperature is 30°C - 86°F during June at Athens
Average temperature is 29°C - 84°F during June at Thessaloniki
Average temperature is 24°C - 75°F during June at Patmos
Average temperature is 30°C - 86°F during June at Corinth
Average temperature is 29°C - 84°F during June at Delphi
Average temperature is 27°C - 80°F during June at Philippi
Average temperature is 31°C - 87°F during June at Kalambaka 

Banks & ATM & Credit Cards
The most widely accepted cards are Visa, MasterCard & American express. On almost every corner you will find a bank or ATM machines. Almost all shops hotels and restaurants accept credit cards. Make sure your bank knows you are travelling abroad.  Bank operating hours vary. Open from Monday to Friday 08:00 a.m. – 14:00 p.m. Some of the larger banks stay open till 18:00 p.m. You can withdraw money from any ATM with a charge depending on the cash card you’re using.

Tipping
10% tip is expected at restaurants, hotels and taxi in Greece.

Internet
Most cafe and hotel hotels will offer you free WI-FI.

U.S. EMBASSY ATHENS
91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue, 10160 Athens, Greece
Phone (Main Switchboard/Info): +30-210-721-2951
Work hours: 8:30 a.m – 5.00 p.m. // Monday to Friday