10 Interesting Facts About Turkey Culture That Will Surprise You

An intriguing fact about Turkey is its unique position spanning both Europe and Asia. This geographical placement has led to a remarkably diverse civilization that has been shaped by a multitude of empires and varying religious and ethnic groups. Furthermore, the cultural imprints of both the European and Asian spheres are readily evident throughout Turkey's landscape.

The population of Turkey has rapidly transitioned from being pagans to Christians to Muslims. On Turkish soil, countless conflicts have been fought, leaving behind countless historical and religious sites. With beautiful scenery, lion-hearted people, and diverse cuisine, Turkey is definitely a favorite destination for tourists.

Do you want to learn some entertaining Turkey culture and traditions? In this article, we delve into 10 interesting facts about Turkey culture that are sure to surprise and fascinate you.

10 Facts About Turkey Culture You Probably Do Not Know

If you've never considered visiting Turkey, we're confident that after reading about all it has to offer, you will put it on your bucket list. Turkey is every traveler's ideal destination because of the magnificent remains of former empires, the rich Turkish language and culture, the calm rivers, and the towering mountains. Here are 10 facts about Turkey culture that you probably did not know.

1. Time perception in Turkey

With the exception of Istanbul, where life is as hectic as it is in major cities throughout the world, if you are used to the bustle of Asian and European metropolitan areas, you will find Turkey culture to be more relaxed. Turkish people work slowly.

If someone in Turkey tells you that he is on his way, don't expect that he will arrive on time. That means the person is on his way but he can stop for lunch or tea and can complete other tasks on the way.

Don't think that everyone who avoids you is doing so on purpose. It's ingrained in their culture. As a result, you should respect their Turkish culture and norms and refrain from offending them.

Turkish people work slowly

2. Cleanliness is a must-have

Turkish people place a high value on cleanliness because this is also a part of their religion Islam. They maintain a tidy and clean living space. Moreover, cleanliness is evident in every aspect of life, including restrooms, clothing, and food. Islamic doctrine, which regards cleanliness as holy and divine.

You can discover clean hotels and Airbnb accommodations in Turkey. Parks, beaches, streets, playgrounds, and even schools are all clean in addition to that. If you want to try Turkish street food, you can do so without worrying about sanitation.

3. Turkish tea is life

A fascinating facet of Turkey country culture is that the national drink isn't your typical beverage; rather, it's tea. The Turkish people have an unwavering fondness for tea, considering it an integral part of their daily routines. It's common to find them savoring a cup of tea throughout the day. So, when someone offers you tea in Turkey, it's not just a gesture; it's an invitation to experience a quintessential element of their culture. Embrace the moment and accept the tea graciously.

Even someone who doesn't particularly enjoy tea can have three or four cups. In Turkey, tea is available all the time and everywhere. You can find vendors selling tea in paper cups along beaches or parks.

Tea is a national drink in Turkey

4. Yogurt is a part of the meal

People eat yogurt for all three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Yogurt helps them quench their thirst and keep cool in the sweltering heat.

Turkish yogurt is distinct from the yogurt we consume on a daily basis. Referred to as Aryan, Turkish yogurt takes on a distinct form by blending yogurt with salt and water. Alongside this, another variation of yogurt stands out for its opulent creaminess and richness.

You can read more about Exploring the Famous and Traditional Foods in Turkey

5. The Evil Eye

When you arrive in Turkey, an evil eye bead will be the first thing you see. It has been a cultural icon for 5000 years. It is often used in the country, particularly by those who have recently purchased a new vehicle or home or on the arrival of a baby.

This symbol is used to drive away the malignant energy that jealous people emit. Turkish folks make necklaces, bracelets, and other jewelry items with this evil eye.

Evil eyes can be found in jewelry stores, but you can also discover signs of good omens in Turkish people's homes, workplaces, and retail establishments. This symbol plays a significant role in the culture of Turkey.

When you arrive in Turkey, an evil eye bead will be the first thing you see

6. About 31% of people smoke cigarettes in Turkey

Comparatively, 12.5% of Americans currently smoke cigarettes. That's two and a half times LESS than Turkish smokers! If you couldn’t tell already, Turkish adults and, regrettably, Turkish children smoke a lot of cigarettes. In Turkey, between the ages of 13 and 15, about 5.3% of teens smoke.

Cigarette butts are (sadly) frequently littered, so don't be shocked to find a lot of them on the streets, especially if there isn't a trash can nearby.

Smoking cigarettes is permissible in open-air settings, encompassing outdoor sections of cafes and restaurants. Thus, if you're sensitive to secondhand smoke, it's wise to be mindful of your seating choices.

7. Not understanding the Turkish language is not a problem

Even if you don't know any Turkish words and Turkish people don't know the language you speak, it doesn't matter to them.

Whether or not you understand, he or she will continue to use gestures to communicate with you. The elderly and residents of the village experience this issue.

Nonetheless, it can occur everywhere throughout the nation. As a result, you shouldn't mind if someone in Turkey still tries to speak to you despite learning that you don't speak the language.

In Turkey country culture, language is not a barrier to communication. They place more emphasis on gestures and emotions.

Not understanding the Turkish language is not a problem

8. Alcohol is permitted in Turkey

You'll be shocked to learn that the only Muslim nation with legalized alcohol consumption is Turkey. Alcohol is not prohibited, but it is also highly expensive. You will spend more on buying and drinking booze with pals than on three meals a day.

Efes is the least expensive local beer; it costs two pounds in grocery stores and three to four pounds in bars. The cost of these alcoholic beverages is likewise high in the nation's major cities.

9. Turkish people leave shoes before entering the apartment

In certain European nations, people remove their shoes while entering the house. The shoes are placed next to the door or in closets. Nonetheless, it is usual in Turkey to remove shoes before entering the home.

Turkish individuals adopt the perspective that it's unnecessary to bring outdoor grime into their living spaces, which is why they leave their shoes outside. If there's ample room outdoors and on the stairways, then there's a rationale for not introducing shoes indoors and thus preventing the house from becoming soiled.

10. No lockers in stores

Upon entering stores in Turkey, an unexpected observation awaits the absence of storage containers or lockers. This applies not only to grocery stores but also extends to a variety of other retail establishments, with the exception of IKEA.

Hence, if you were hoping to leave a bag or backpack at the door before going shopping, this is regrettably not an option in Turkey. It's typical for folks to bring their bags with them when they go shopping. As a result, it's wise to constantly travel light and avoid carrying a lot of luggage. Nobody will mention it, though, even if you carry a sizable luggage or a dozen additional bags of goods.

This practice is deeply ingrained in Turkey culture and traditions and reflects a number of different values, including a sense of personal responsibility and the idea that customers should take care of their own belongings.

No lockers in store

Useful Information When Traveling To Turkey

Turkey is a nation with a colorful culture, varied landscapes, and a long history. The country provides a distinctive fusion of the old and new, from its ancient archaeological wonders to its contemporary buzzing metropolis. Its food tempts taste buds with a delightful blend of tastes, and guests from all over the world are welcomed with open arms.

You must be even more motivated to visit Turkey now that you are aware of these amusing facts about it. These cultural insights will make it easier for you to interact with Turks, allowing you to have a trouble-free vacation.

If you're feeling inspired to embark on this adventure, remember to apply for a Turkey eVisa through Turkey Immigration Services to facilitate your journey. With these cultural nuggets in mind, you're poised to savor every moment of your trip without a hitch.