Cultural etiquette guide

Turkey Etiquette: What's Polite & What's Rude

Quick verdicts on the gestures and customs travelers ask about most in Turkey. Tap any topic for the full explanation and a local tip.

Tipping Appreciated but not required Thumbs up Generally positive but ambiguous Showing soles of feet Disrespectful foot display Eating with the left hand Left hand is unclean Patting someone's head Generally rude, especially for adults Direct eye contact Moderate eye contact Removing shoes indoors Respectful indoor custom Pointing with a finger Generally impolite, use alternatives Public displays of affection Minimal PDA expected Arriving late Slight delay acceptable Refusing offered food Refusing may offend The OK hand sign Potentially offensive gesture

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