How to Call Turkey
Complete guide to dialing Turkey (country code +90)
Planning to connect with friends, family, or business contacts in Turkey? Learning how to call Turkey from abroad doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're making your first international call or need a quick refresher, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Turkey successfully. We'll cover the essential dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, highlight common mistakes that could cost you time and money, and share important phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression. You'll also discover useful numbers for emergencies, services, and information. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making calls to Turkey from anywhere in the world.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Turkey from abroad, follow this structure: Exit Code + 90 + Area Code (without leading zero) + Local Number
Turkey's country code is +90. The exit code varies by country—011 for USA/Canada, 00 for most European countries, and + from mobile phones worldwide.
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA/Canada:
Dial 011 (exit code) + 90 + area code + local number
From UK and most of Europe:
Dial 00 (exit code) + 90 + area code + local number
From any mobile phone:
Dial + (press and hold 0) + 90 + area code + local number
Important: Drop the Leading Zero
Turkish phone numbers start with 0 when dialing domestically, but you must remove this zero when calling from abroad. For example, if a Turkish number is listed as 0212 XXX XXXX, dial only 212 XXX XXXX after the country code.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Istanbul Landline (0212 345 6789):
- From USA: 011-90-212-345-6789
- From UK: 00-90-212-345-6789
- From mobile: +90-212-345-6789
Example 2 - Ankara Landline (0312 123 4567):
- From USA: 011-90-312-123-4567
- From UK: 00-90-312-123-4567
- From mobile: +90-312-123-4567
Example 3 - Turkish Mobile Number (0532 987 6543):
- From USA: 011-90-532-987-6543
- From UK: 00-90-532-987-6543
- From mobile: +90-532-987-6543
Example 4 - Antalya Landline (0242 555 8888):
- From USA: 011-90-242-555-8888
- From mobile: +90-242-555-8888
Quick Tips
Turkish mobile numbers typically start with 5XX (like 532, 533, 542) after removing the zero. Landline area codes vary by city: Istanbul (212/216), Ankara (312), Izmir (232), and Antalya (242). Always verify current rates with your phone provider before making international calls.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Turkey, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Not dropping the leading zero from the area code. Turkish phone numbers begin with 0 domestically, but when dialing internationally, you must remove this zero. For example, if the local number is 0212 XXX XXXX, dial +90 212 XXX XXXX instead.
Using the wrong exit code. Different countries have different exit codes (011 from the US/Canada, 00 from most European countries). Alternatively, use the "+" symbol, which works universally from mobile phones and eliminates confusion.
Confusing the country code with the area code. Turkey's country code is +90, not to be confused with area codes like 212 (Istanbul European side) or 216 (Istanbul Asian side). Always dial +90 first, then the area code without the zero.
Incorrectly formatting the number. Save numbers in international format: +90 XXX XXX XXXX. This ensures your phone recognizes it as an international call and applies the correct dialing sequence automatically.
Forgetting to check mobile versus landline formats. Turkish mobile numbers start with specific prefixes (like 5XX) after the country code.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Turkey, understanding local customs helps build positive relationships. Turkish people are generally warm and hospitable, which extends to their telephone communication style.
Always begin calls with "Merhaba" (hello) or "İyi günler" (good day). In business contexts, address people formally using their title and surname, such as "Bey" (Mr.) or "Hanım" (Mrs.). Personal calls can be more relaxed, but wait for the other person to initiate casual conversation.
Business versus personal calls differ significantly. Business calls should be professional and concise, typically scheduled between 9 AM and 6 PM on weekdays. Personal calls are more flexible, though avoid calling before 9 AM or after 10 PM unless you have a close relationship.
Turkish communication tends toward warmth and relationship-building. Don't be surprised if conversations include personal questions or small talk—this shows genuine interest rather than intrusion. Be patient, as calls may last longer than in some Western cultures.
Voice messages are commonly used. Keep them clear and include your name, reason for calling, and contact information. Many Turks prefer talking directly, so following up a voicemail with a text message is appreciated.
When calling mobile phones, remember that the caller typically pays, so missed calls requesting a return call are common practice. This isn't rude—it's economical thinking. Always return missed calls from business contacts promptly, as this demonstrates respect and professionalism.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers in Turkey:
- 112 - General Emergency (ambulance, fire, police)
- 110 - Fire Department (direct line)
- 155 - Police
- 156 - Gendarmerie (rural areas)
- 153 - Municipal Police
Important Information:
All emergency numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones, even without credit or a SIM card. The primary number 112 connects you to all emergency services and is available 24/7. English-speaking operators are typically available, particularly in major cities and tourist areas. For coastal emergencies, contact 158 (Coast Guard). The Tourist Police hotline 0850 390 4201 offers multilingual support specifically for visitors. Keep these numbers saved in your phone and written down as backup. Response times are generally quick in urban areas but may be longer in remote regions.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 118: Directory assistance for finding phone numbers and addresses within Turkey
- 115: International operator for assistance with overseas calls
Tourist Support
- Tourist Police: Available in major cities; dial 153 or 527-4503 in Istanbul for English-speaking assistance
- Tourism Information Line: 444-0-THY provides general tourist information
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy directly for emergencies involving citizens. Major embassies are located in Ankara, with consulates in Istanbul and other cities. Store your embassy's 24-hour emergency number before traveling.
Other Useful Numbers
- 444: Prefix for many customer service lines (banks, airlines, utilities)
- ALO 176: Consumer rights helpline
- 183: Social services support line
- ALO 181: Information and complaints hotline for various government services
Tips for Calling Turkey
When calling Turkey, remember the country operates on Turkey Time (UTC+3 year-round, with no daylight saving adjustments). To find the best calling window, calculate the time difference from your location accordingly.
For business calls, Turkish companies typically operate Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time. Always schedule important business calls in advance, as this demonstrates professionalism and ensures availability. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:30-1:30 PM) when possible.
Consider off-peak calling times to potentially reduce costs if using traditional phone services—typically evenings after 6:00 PM and weekends. However, verify with your provider as international rates vary.
Be mindful of Turkish holidays, particularly religious observances like Ramadan (dates vary annually) and Eid celebrations, when business activity slows significantly. Also avoid calling during Republic Day (October 29) and National Sovereignty Day (April 23).
For clear communication, speak slowly and confirm understanding regularly, especially if your contact's English proficiency varies. Many Turkish businesspeople speak English, but patience and clarity ensure productive conversations. Consider having key points written beforehand to keep discussions focused and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Turkey is +90. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Turkey from any country. It's an essential prefix for all Turkish phone numbers.
To dial Turkey from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 90 (Turkey's country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and finally the local number. For example: +90-212-XXX-XXXX.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the Turkish area code when calling from abroad. Turkish numbers start with 0 domestically, but when dialing internationally, omit the zero and dial the remaining digits after the +90 country code.
The cheapest way to call Turkey is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Turkey.
In Turkey, dial 112 for general emergencies and ambulance services, 110 for fire department, 155 for police, and 156 for gendarmerie (rural police). These numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones without credit.
Yes, you can call Turkey directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Turkish phone number you want to call, and connect instantly without needing to download any software or apps.
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