Turkey is a country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it one of the most geographically and culturally unique nations in the world. The country borders Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Iran, Iraq, and Syria, and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Aegean Sea, and Black Sea.
The capital city is Ankara, while Istanbul is the largest city and a major cultural and economic center. Istanbul is famous for its historical landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.
Turkey has a long and rich history that includes the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, and today it blends ancient traditions with modern culture and tourism.
Current Time
- Time Zone: Turkey Time (TRT)
- UTC Offset: UTC +3
- Daylight Saving Time: Not observed
- IANA Time Zone: Europe/Istanbul
Turkey uses the same time throughout the entire year.
Quick Facts
- Capital: Ankara
- Largest City: Istanbul
- Continent: Europe & Asia
- Population: ~85 million
- Official Language: Turkish
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
- International Dialing Code: +90
- Internet TLD: .tr
- Major Cities: Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, Antalya
Time Difference From Major Cities
| City | Time Difference |
|---|---|
| Sydney | Turkey is 8 hours behind |
| London | Turkey is 3 hours ahead |
| New York | Turkey is 8 hours ahead |
| Dubai | Turkey is the same time |
| Tokyo | Turkey is 6 hours behind |
(Time differences may vary depending on daylight saving time in other countries.)
Daylight Saving Time
Turkey does not observe Daylight Saving Time anymore.
Since 2016, Turkey has remained on UTC +3 permanently throughout the entire year.
Best Time to Call Turkey
If calling Turkey from other regions:
From Australia
- Best time: 4 PM – 8 PM Sydney time
From United Kingdom
- Best time: 9 AM – 4 PM London time
From United States
- Best time: 7 AM – 11 AM New York time
These time ranges usually fall within normal business hours in Turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time zone is Turkey in?
Turkey uses Turkey Time (TRT) which is UTC +3.
Does Turkey observe daylight saving time?
No. Turkey stopped using daylight saving time in 2016.
What is the capital of Turkey?
The capital city is Ankara.
Is Turkey in Europe or Asia?
Turkey is located in both Europe and Asia.
What is the largest city in Turkey?
The largest city is Istanbul.
Where Is Turkey Located?
Turkey is located between Europe and Asia, connecting the two continents.
Neighboring countries include:
The country is surrounded by three seas: the Mediterranean Sea, Aegean Sea, and Black Sea.
What Is Turkey Famous For?
Turkey is famous for:
- The historic city of Istanbul
- Ancient landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
- The unique landscape of Cappadocia
- The natural terraces of Pamukkale
- Rich Ottoman and Byzantine history
Additional Note
Turkey operates under Turkey Time (UTC +3) across the entire country. Since the government abolished daylight saving time in 2016, the country remains on the same time throughout the year.
