Gaziantep, Turkey πΉπ·
#298
37.062831, 37.379261
Nomad Score:
63%
Essentials
| ποΈ City | Gaziantep, known for its rich culinary heritage and historical significance, is one of the largest cities in southeastern Turkey. |
| π₯ Population | Approximately 2 million |
| π» Internet Speed | Average speed is around 30 Mbps, with access to fiber-optic networks in many urban areas. |
| πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 27 TRY (as of November 2024); banks like Ziraat Bank and VakifBank are widely available. |
| π° Tap Water | Not recommended for drinking; bottled water is the safer option. |
| π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type C/E sockets. |
| πΆ SIM Card | Major providers include Turkcell, Vodafone, and TΓΌrk Telekom, with prepaid options available. |
| π³ Banking for Expats | Kuveyt TΓΌrk and Δ°Ε BankasΔ± often accept foreign accounts, with debit and credit cards widely used. |
| π Accommodation | Options are available through Airbnb, local real estate agents, and long-term rental platforms. |
| π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards accepted widely in most shops and services. |
| π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local property management services provide flexible options. |
| ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Gaziantep and local guesthouses provide affordable stays, ranging from β¬10 to β¬15 per night. |
Working and Networking
| π’ Best Coworking Space | Workhaus Gaziantep, offering high-speed internet and a community vibe. |
| β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Nostalji, with free WiFi and a quiet atmosphere. |
| πΌ Networking Events | Check local Facebook groups or Meetup.com for informal gatherings. |
| π₯ Social Events for Expats | Various cultural events at Gaziantep's cultural center provide networking opportunities. |
Transportation
| π Best Taxi/Ride App | BiTaksi and Lyft are popular apps for on-demand rides. |
| π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Local bike rental shops are scant; using public transport is more common. |
| ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | The Mediterranean coast, particularly around Antakya, is about 2 hours away. |
| βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Turkish Airlines, offering domestic and international flights. |
| βοΈ Top International Airline | Lufthansa and Pegasus Airlines are major options from Gaziantep Airport. |
| π£οΈ Highway Access | E90 and E92 highways connect Gaziantep to major cities. |
| π Main Train/Transit Hub | Gaziantep Station connects to major routes; intercity buses are also frequent. |
| π Public Transport Passes | Ankarakart can be used for buses and dolmus (shared taxis). |
| βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses are frequently available to nearby cities like ΕanlΔ±urfa and Adana. |
Health and Wellness
| π₯ Best Hospital | Medical Park Gaziantep Hospital, a modern facility with emergency services. |
| π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga and Meditation Center Gaziantep, offering daily classes. |
| ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic-Fit Gaziantep, providing a range of fitness equipment. |
| π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundromats are available in major districts, with prices around 5 TRY per kg. |
Food and Drink
| π± Best Food Delivery App | Yemeksepeti and Getir are popular delivery services in Gaziantep. |
| π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Baklava and Kebab, especially the local Urfa Kebabi. |
| π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | CafΓ© Kelebek offers a variety of vegetarian dishes. |
| π« Best Dessert Spots | KΓΌltΓΌr Baklava serves some of the finest baklava in Turkey. |
| π Affordable Shopping Spots | The local bazaar is great for fresh produce and snacks. |
| π E-commerce/Online Store | Trendyol and Hepsiburada are popular e-commerce platforms. |
| π Grocery Delivery | Local grocery stores typically offer delivery services upon request. |
| πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Beylerbeyi Park area has bars and cafes, popular for nightlife. |
| π» Local Brewery | Gaziantep has various local breweries, but they are less common; beer is available in many bars. |
| π· Wine Bars | Wine bars are less common; however, some restaurants offer local wines. |
| π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors in the old bazaar serve delicious grilled meats and spices. |
| π Popular International Cuisine | Various Italian and Chinese restaurants can be found in central districts. |
Culture and Attractions
| ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Gaziantep Castle and the Zeugma Mosaic Museum are must-visits. |
| ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Gastronomy Museum showcases Gaziantep's rich culinary history. |
| π° Historical Sites | The Old Mosque and the city bazaars are rich in history. |
| π Religious Sites | The historic St. Maryβs Cathedral is notable. |
| π Annual Events | The Gaziantep Gastronomy Festival is held annually, showcasing local cuisine. |
| π¨ Cultural Districts | Balu district is known for its vibrant arts scene and workshops. |
| π Theater Venues | The Gaziantep City Theatre hosts regular performances. |
| ποΈ Local Markets | The Kemikli Bazaar offers local handicrafts and spices. |
| πΌ Music Scene | Local cafes often feature live music, especially Turkish folk music. |
| π¨ Street Art | Murals can be found throughout the city, especially in the old town. |
| π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Classes at the Gaziantep Culinary School offer hands-on experiences. |
| π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Efsane Art Gallery showcases local artists. |
| π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The ancient Stone Bridge is a landmark of architectural significance. |
| π΄ Local Heritage | Gaziantep is known as the 'City of Gastronomy' by UNESCO. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Gaziantep Botanic Garden is a serene place to visit. |
| ποΈ National Parks Nearby | KarkamΔ±Ε National Park is a short drive away for outdoor activities. |
| π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The Gaziantep City Park offers good walking and cycling paths. |
| π Scenic Viewpoints | The Gaziantep Castle provides stunning views of the city. |
| π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Nearby wetland reserves are ideal for birdwatching. |
| π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain parks allow bonfires; check local regulations first. |
Other Services and Amenities
| π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Cargo services like PTT and UPS provide reliable shipping options. |
| π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Tech Repair Center in Εahinbey offers various repair services. |
| π Table Tennis Spots | Public parks often have table tennis facilities. |
| π§βπ« Language Classes | Private language schools offer Turkish classes for foreigners. |
| π Libraries & Study Spots | Gaziantep University's library is a quiet study location. |
| ποΈ Community Centers | The Gaziantep Cultural Center hosts various community events. |
| πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Locally operated gaming cafes are popular among youth. |
| π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is not allowed; however, there are game lounges. |
Business
| π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 5,000 TRY per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = 200,000 TRY) |
| π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 4,000 TRY per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = 160,000 TRY) |
| π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 4,500 TRY per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = 270,000 TRY) |
| π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 3,500 TRY per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = 210,000 TRY) |
| π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 4,000 TRY per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = 320,000 TRY) |
| π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 3,000 TRY per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = 240,000 TRY) |
| πΌ Corporate Tax | 20% |
| π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% |
| π¦ Tax System | Progressive tax rates apply for residents. |
| π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 40% |
| π§Ύ VAT | 18% standard rate. |
| π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, subject to strict regulations. |
| π Property Tax | Annual property tax is based on declared value. |
| π Property Transaction Tax | 4% standard rate. |