Trying to find out if Turkey widely accepts Amex cards in restaurants and shops and ATMs - any suggestions
Amex is virtually useless at ATMs in Turkey - you'll get hit with cash advance fees (avg. 5%) plus immediate interest. For cash, use a debit card instead. For spending:
• Chain stores (Mudo, Beymen, Zara): Accept Amex
• Groceries (Migros, CarrefourSA): Accept Amex
• Transportation (BiTaksi, airlines): Accept Amex
• Local markets/transport: Cash only
My strategy: Use Amex where accepted for points, Revolut for everything else.
I have a friend who manages a store in Grand Bazaar, he explains why many shops in Turkey refuse Amex:
Merchant fees are nearly double Visa/Mastercard (3.5% vs 1.8%)
Settlement takes 3-5 business days vs 1-2 days for others
Some POS systems require special Amex contracts
We only accept it for purchases over 5,000 TL to justify the fees. Tourists should know that most bazaar vendors will offer 5-10% discounts for cash payments instead.
Tried using Amex Platinum at 20+ restaurants across Turkey last month. Results:
Accepted at:
• Major hotel chains (Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons)
• International restaurants in Istanbul
• High-end establishments in Cappadocia
Rejected at:
• 90% of local kebab shops
• All small cafes in coastal towns
• Most family-run businesses
Solution: I loaded my Amex to my Apple Pay as some terminals accept it that way when they refuse the physical card.
Amex acceptance in Turkey is hit-or-miss. In Istanbul's business districts (Levent, Maslak) and high-end hotels, you'll have no problems. But my card gets declined at about 40% of smaller restaurants and shops. Always carry a Visa/Mastercard backup - my Chase Sapphire works everywhere Amex doesn't. Surprisingly, even some upscale boutiques in Nisantasi refuse Amex due to the higher merchant fees.
Tried Kuveyt Turk in Turkey with my UAE card. The ATM gave me the option to withdraw, but it didnt actually work. But do not risk it with amex, dint see it accepting at many places