Knowing the standard working hours in Turkey can help travelers plan visits to government offices, banks, shops, and major attractions more efficiently. While opening hours may vary slightly between cities and individual businesses, the following schedules serve as a general guide.
Government Offices
Most government offices operate during regular weekday business hours.
- Monday – Friday: 08:30 – 12:30 and 13:30 – 17:30
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Government offices are typically closed during national and religious public holidays.
Banks
Banks throughout Turkey generally follow standard business hours.
- Monday – Friday: 08:30 – 12:00 and 13:30 – 17:00
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Most banks close for lunch between noon and 1:30 p.m., although some branches located in airports, shopping malls, and tourist areas may offer extended hours.
Shops and Retail Stores
Traditional shops and small businesses usually operate six days a week.
- Monday – Saturday: 09:30 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 19:00
- Sunday: Usually closed
However, in major cities and popular tourist destinations, many shopping malls, supermarkets, and stores remain open seven days a week, often from 10:00 until 22:00.
Grand Bazaar (Covered Market), Istanbul
One of Turkey’s most famous shopping destinations, Istanbul’s historic Grand Bazaar, welcomes visitors during the following hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 08:00 – 19:00
- Sunday: Closed
It is advisable to arrive early in the day to enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience before the busiest afternoon hours.
Summer Working Hours
During the hot summer months, particularly in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, some government offices and public institutions may adopt seasonal working schedules. In certain provinces, offices close during the hottest part of the afternoon and reopen according to locally determined summer timetables.
These seasonal hours are established by the provincial authorities and may vary from one region to another. Visitors who need official services are advised to check local office hours in advance, especially during the summer season.
Useful Tips for Visitors
- Banks and government offices are generally busiest during the morning hours.
- Shopping malls, supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, and most tourist attractions often remain open throughout the day and into the evening.
- Pharmacies operate on a rotating duty system outside normal business hours, ensuring that at least one pharmacy remains open at night, on weekends, and during public holidays.
- Business hours may differ during the month of Ramadan and on national or religious holidays, so it is advisable to confirm opening times before planning your visit.
