Gebze City Guide

Turkish cuisine dominates with kebabs, pide, mezes, and baklava. Vegetarian options exist, but vegan spots are rare. Late-night döner and soup shops are common.

Gebze has little nightlife compared to bigger cities, reflecting its industrial and working-class nature.

Traditional Turkish coffee is common, and modern coffee shops are growing across Turkey.

Tipping is expected in restaurants (5-10%), common in cash. Small tips appreciated for hotel staff. Taxis usually do not require tips but rounding up is normal.

SIM cards require passport registration and can be bought at airports or official stores. Main providers are Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom. eSIM options also exist.

Municipal waste and recycling efforts exist but cleanliness varies.

Late-night minimarts and some pharmacies operate. Döner shops and food stalls often open late.

Supermarkets like Migros, CarrefourSA, BİM, A101, and Şok are common. Fresh markets operate on set days. Stores usually open 9 AM to 9 or 10 PM and many stay open Sunday. Bargaining is normal in bazaars, not supermarkets.

Card payments are popular and accepted in many places, but cash is still needed for small shops, bazaars, and tips.

ATMs are common, mostly near banks like Isbank, Ziraat Bankasi, and Garanti Bank. Visa and Mastercard are accepted. Some ATMs have fees, but others like Turkiye Finans and Ziraat Bankasi may offer free withdrawals.

Local schools teach in Turkish. Gebze Technical University is the main higher education institution. No widely known international schools are listed.

Gebze has a very small nomad community and few workspaces.

Some green areas are present but not prominent in the city landscape.

Coastal and city routes are available though air quality may vary due to industry.

Gyms exist but specific names are not well documented.

Tennis courts likely exist in sports clubs, but details are scarce.

No specific padel facilities noted.

Limited info on yoga studios or wellness centers in Gebze.

Martial arts training likely exists but details on styles and instructors are sparse.

Nearest ski resort is Kartepe, about an hour away by car.

Some kayaking or paddleboarding may be possible on the Gulf, but rental info is limited.

Water here is calm; not suitable for surfing.

Sea of Marmara is not known for diving.

Gebze has access to public and private healthcare. Private hospitals generally offer better service and English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common for minor health needs.

Tap water is usually not safe to drink directly. Bottled water is cheap and common. Tap is fine for brushing teeth and cooking.

Some playgrounds and baby supplies are available. Few specific kid-friendly attractions in Gebze; more options nearby.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is low, with limited safe spaces and events.

Basic pet services like vets and supply stores exist. Pet-friendly spaces vary.