Turkey : Safety by CityTurkey is a country where history, culture, and landscapes converge to create a vibrant destination for travelers.
Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey’s history spans ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.
More than 49 million people visit each year to explore its diverse regions and stunning natural beauty.
The Mediterranean’s turquoise coastlines and dramatic rock formations of Cappadocia offer a variety as astounding as the culture.
Well-trodden areas like Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum, and Izmir are known for their hospitality, well-developed infrastructure, and welcoming atmosphere.
Turkey’s regions each offer unique landscapes and cultural vibes.
The Aegean Coast is home to ancient ruins and beautiful beaches, while the Mediterranean region features lush pine forests and turquoise seas.
The Central Anatolia plateau hosts the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, dotted with fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings.
In the Black Sea region, you’ll find green hills and tea plantations, perfect for nature lovers.
The Marmara Region, including Istanbul, is a blend of old and new.
However, not all of Turkey is safe for visitors.
In fact, some locations are downright dangerous.
We’ll go through the places to avoid and the safest things to do in this article.
Warnings & Dangers in Turkey
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
There's a mixed bag of travel advice in Turkey, but visiting Istanbul is safer than visiting places near the borders of Syria, Iraq, or Iran. Treat it as a medium risk, even in the safer areas.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Turkey has an easy selection of buses, trains, and taxi services (called dolmus), but research each option before your trip. If booking for yourself makes you uneasy, try a registered tour guide who can book transportation for you. The risk is low, but studying the various options around and between cities will help make the process smoother.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Pickpockets can be a nuisance in busy spots like bazaars or public transport. Keep your bag zipped and your wallet somewhere secure. Dress to fit in with local etiquette so you don't stand out as a tourist.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Turkey sits in an earthquake-prone region, so it’s good to know what to do in case one happens. Check weather and seismic updates if you’re exploring mountainous or coastal areas. Treat this as a medium risk, even though there is no way to predict an earthquake.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
The mugging risk is low for those using exceptional safety measures. Avoid dark areas at night. Travel in groups, and don't go anywhere with someone you have just met. Don't accept drinks from strangers, and never leave a friend behind alone at a bar or restaurant.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk and a high risk near the Syrian and Iran borders. Read your country's advisory for the country on the most up-to-date terrorism risks. Staying in safer cities like Istanbul will lower the risk but not eliminate it.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk due to ongoing and relentless attempts at scamming. Fraud can range from dating app scams to confidence schemes. One popular scam is from a "friendly" local distracting you while another person steals your stuff. Keep your guard up and limit talking to strangers as much as possible.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Turkey’s safe for women, but cultural norms can vary. Dress modestly in conservative areas and avoid walking alone at night in quieter spots. Whenever possible, travel in mixed-gender groups.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water’s technically safe in cities but doesn’t taste great. Most people, locals included, go for bottled water instead.
Safest Places to Visit in Turkey
As we’ll mention several times in this article, the safest cities to visit in Turkey are Antalya, Bodrum, Istanbul, Izmir, and Marmaris.
To keep with that theme, we’ll focus on those cities for the things to do.
Antalya
Antalya is where history meets gorgeous beaches, making it a dream spot for travelers.
Stroll through Kaleiçi, the old town, with its charming streets and Hadrian’s Gate, a Roman masterpiece.
For some nature vibes, check out the stunning Düden Waterfalls.
History buffs will love Aspendos Theatre, an ancient Roman amphitheater still in great shape.
When it’s time to unwind, Konyaalt谋 Beach or Lara Beach are perfect for soaking up the sun and swimming in the turquoise waters.
Bodrum
Bodrum has it all—history, luxury, and nightlife.
Start with Bodrum Castle, which has a fascinating underwater archaeology museum inside.
The ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, are a must-see.
For chill beach vibes, head to Bitez Beach or Camel Beach, both great for lounging or trying out water sports.
The Bodrum Marina is the perfect spot to grab a drink and watch the yachts.
If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a boat tour to explore hidden bays and islands nearby.
Istanbul
Istanbul is one of those cities you’ll never forget. Kick things off in Sultanahmet with the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque—both jaw-dropping.
Shop ‘til you drop at the Grand Bazaar, where you can haggle for everything from spices to carpets.
Walk through the opulent Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans, or climb up Galata Tower for incredible city views.
For a totally different perspective, hop on a Bosphorus cruise and see the city from the water.
Izmir
Enjoy the harbor on the Aegean Sea in Izmir.
Start with a stroll along the Kordon, a waterfront area where locals love to hang out.
Snap some photos at Konak Square with its iconic clock tower.
Dive into history at the Agora of Smyrna, an ancient Roman marketplace, or head up to Kadifekale for panoramic views.
If you’re up for a day trip, nearby Çe艧me and Alaçat谋 are packed with charming streets, beaches, and delicious local eats.
A ferry to Greece also runs out of Izmir, which takes about 14 hours.
Marmaris
To experience a mix of beaches, nature, and nightlife, head to Marmaris.
The Marmaris Marina is always buzzing with restaurants, shops, and people-watching opportunities.
For something a bit more peaceful, relax on Içmeler Beach or take a boat tour to discover hidden bays and islands.
You can also consider a four-hour ferry trip to Rhodes, Greece, to see the Old Town of Rhodes, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History lovers should visit Marmaris Castle, a small but interesting spot with great views.
For an unforgettable day trip, head to the Dalyan River, where you can see Lycian rock tombs and even take a mud bath!
Places to Avoid in Turkey
Several regions in Turkey have the highest travel warnings, but those are generally not near tourist destinations.
However, just to be super clear, we’re going to share them with you.
These are from reviewing government warnings from the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Avoid anywhere within six miles (10 km) of the border with Syria, the Hakkari province (near the border of Iraq and Iran), and Sirnak province (near the border of Iran and Syria).
Canada goes as far as to warm against any of the Southeastern provinces, saying that “non-essential travel” should be avoided in:
- Batman
- Bingöl
- Bitlis
- Hakkari
- Kilis
- Siirt
- 葮irnak
- Tunceli
Keep in mind that these regions are a solid 19 hours by car from Istanbul, so you won’t accidentally end up driving through these dangerous places.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Turkey
- Turkey has a 112 Emergency Call System, which is a unified hotline for all emergency services, including police, fire, ambulance, and the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).
- While Turkish is the official language of the country, resort towns will have the best chance of finding English-speaking accommodation. Any trips outside major tourist areas will result in a language barrier if you don’t speak Turkish.
- Earthquakes are the biggest natural disaster risk in Turkey, but the same could be said for San Francisco. Be sure to ask about earthquake safety steps and evacuation routes when you check in. As long as you know what to do if a quake hits, you should be much safer and get more peace of mind.
- The Mediterranean and Aegean coasts are popular for swimming and water sports. Stick to designated swimming areas, as strong currents can be dangerous, especially in the Black Sea. Pay attention to warning flags on beaches: red means no swimming, yellow means caution, and green indicates safe waters.
- Fishing is popular in Turkey’s seas and rivers, but you need a recreational fishing license. It’s easy to get one online through the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry’s e-Government platform (e-Devlet). Licenses are affordable and valid nationwide for non-commercial fishing. Be aware of local regulations, including species restrictions and catch limits.
- Turkish police and military have the right to detain, search, and question anyone, even without suspicion of charges. Detainment can last 48 hours. To show proof of your citizenship, carry a photo ID with you at all times. It’s not a guarantee that you won’t be detained, but it’s a lot more helpful than having no ID!
- Avoid large political protests or demonstrations. That’s one of the places you would most likely face detainment. Plus, those crowds can get out of control quickly. Terrorists also might target large gatherings.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as mosques. Women may need a scarf to cover their hair, and both men and women should avoid wearing shorts in these areas. Always remove shoes before entering a mosque.
- When dining in public, only use your right hand for eating. The left hand should be in your lap and out of sight. This is because Muslims believe that the left hand is for cleaning and the right hand is for eating.
- During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. It’s considered impolite to eat or drink during this time, even if you aren’t Muslim.
So... How Safe Is Turkey Really?
Turkey is the fourth most visited country globally, so there must be some degree of safety to keep generating the 50 million or so guests each year.
Places like Istanbul are generally safe, assuming you are using the standard safety precautions we’ve talked about in this article.
The United States ranks Turkey at Level 2: Exercise Increase Caution.
Terrorism and “arbitrary detentions” are the main reasons why.
The detentions are due to a law passed in 2018 that allows authorities to detain and hold people without a criminal charge.
The United Kingdom’s FCDO advises against any travel to Turkey.
Canadian authorities say visiting Turkey should come with a “high degree of caution.”
Be sure to avoid the places we mentioned above, including those near the borders of Syria and Iran.
The safest cities to visit are Antalya, Bodrum, Istanbul, Marmaris, and Izmir.
Overall, Turkey offers a mixed bag of advice and safety recommendations, but those who focus on places like Istanbul should exercise normal precautions and adhere to local etiquette standards to make the most of their trip.
How Does Turkey Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Turkey | 45 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Qatar | 84 |
| United Arab Emirates | 79 |
| Montenegro | 70 |
| Denmark | 94 |
| Poland | 84 |
| Lithuania | 79 |
| Argentina | 70 |
Useful Information
Visas
Getting into Turkey is pretty straightforward, thanks to their e-Visa system, which you can apply for online. Some travelers don’t even need a visa, depending on their nationality. For example, U.S. nationals can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Just double-check the requirements before you go, and make sure your passport has at least six months of validity.
Currency
Turkey uses the Turkish lira (TRY). While cards are widely accepted in cities, it’s smart to keep some cash for smaller shops and rural areas. ATMs are easy to find, with banks offering the best exchange rates. Avoid the airport or hotel front desks unless you want to pay higher rates.
Weather
Turkey’s weather depends on where you are. The coasts are sunny and warm, especially in summer, while central areas like Cappadocia can get freezing in winter. Istanbul sits somewhere in the middle with milder conditions. Pack for the season and your specific destination.
Airports
Istanbul Airport (IST) is Turkey's main gateway, a massive international hub. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is on the Asian side. Other popular airports include Antalya for beachgoers and Ankara for the capital. Domestic flights make hopping around the country easy.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for Turkey. It’ll save you stress in case of medical issues, lost luggage, or trip hiccups. You should specifically ask for medical evacuation insurance. Stay out of high-risk areas, as policies can be deemed invalid if you need help after ignoring travel warnings.
Turkey Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 8 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 30 | 32 | 31 | 27 | 20 | 15 | 10 |
| Low °C | 2 | 3 | 7 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 22 | 21 | 17 | 10 | 7 | 3 |
| High °F | 46 | 50 | 59 | 68 | 77 | 86 | 90 | 88 | 81 | 68 | 59 | 50 |
| Low °F | 36 | 37 | 45 | 50 | 59 | 68 | 72 | 70 | 63 | 50 | 45 | 37 |
Turkey - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Alanya | 76 |
| Ankara | 58 |
| Antalya | 74 |
| Bodrum | 70 |
| Bursa | 66 |
| Eskisehir | 85 |
| Istanbul | 58 |
| Izmir | 73 |
| Kusadasi | 68 |
Quite true
One thing, most of the terrorist attacks of 2016 and 2017 were linked to isis. It costed a lot of innocent lives. Kurdish terrorist organisation (pkk) is still a concern though everything started to settle down after Turkish armed forces TSK stormed the borders.
The Kurd terrorist group dose not pose a threat for tourists, it only targets the government
They actually said to target tourists to hurt the tourist revenue
Sadly, no. Especially in eastern Turkey, it targets many civilians. although the EU wants people to think that it’s a peaceful group they have mostly killed, civilians, unfortunately.
6 People just died, and 80+ injured by a street bomb November 14, 2022.
Feel free to travel to Turkey. Recently there isnt any terrorist attack from any parties. At recent past it happens at special days at crowded marching etc. If you are afaraid just avoid going city big city centers at special days.
The page is laughable
This page is so wrong its laughable. Overall risky is High? its probably safer than the united states or the UK. People in turkey are very nice. they also have great coffee, when it comes to women i i would agree with the page but mugging, pick pocketing, and terrorism are not issues at all. there hasten been a terrorist attack in turkey in over 100 years. and if there is one its extremely unlikely you’ll be a victim because they mainly attack the government and never attack tourist destinations. turkey has a lot of reasons to go there. you got ancient ruins from the ottoman empire, the abalone empire, the Assyrian empire, the Persian empire, its one of the most beautiful places on earth
Hi it’s a bit confusing saying there haven’t been terrorist attacks and then saying they mainly attack the government. Can I just clarify with my plans to drive all through north Turkey and into Armenia and then return through central Turkey to the southwest and up the coast back into Bulgaria. I’ll obviously steer very clear of the Syrian border. Is this a sensible and safe plan?
I agree.
it is laughable.
I was hoping for a trip and even learning some Turkish, but the bombing yesterday on a busy road in Istanbul killing people shopping has put me off. I am American and just read America or Kurds are being blamed by Turkey. What? That was the nail in the coffin so to speak.
Im confused, Terrorisim or not ???
Unfair rating! Please read
As an American woman, I have traveled to Turkey many times due to my spouse being from there.
This rating is very unfair –ranking just barely above the safety of countries that are crime havens.
You literally never hear about rapes, murders, petty-crime. One good thing that comes from having a Despot as a leader, is people are frightened of breaking the law.
You couldn’t pay me to visit some places like Mexico.
Turkey has 80 million people and is the size of Texas – so terrorism is about as much of a treat there as it is in any European country.
It is a gorgeous country full of amazing history, food, and friendly people – modern and tolerant people.
Like most people visiting Turkey, I have only been to places like Istanbul, Antalya, Fethiye.
I don’t think when people are asking about vacationing in Turkey, they are visiting anywhere near the Syrian border (Turks don’t even visit those areas).
I’ve been out at night on my own and never worry about my safety, as I do here in the USA.
I love my trips there!
Pancho the great ?
Whilst much of what you say about Turkey is quite true i’m afraid the ” Texas” bit is just not true ?neither as the borders stand now ! or even less so
if the US were to return land it stole from Mexico during its struggle with “ Pancho the great “ .
what??
“You literally never hear about rapes, murders, petty-crime.” girl you sure about that?? as a native, femicides and rapes are happening nearly EVERYDAY. and they dont even arrest criminals. think twice before spreading false information. you are just lucky bcuz someone didnot rape and dismember you and easily get away with it.
Why are you lying x?
Turkey is safer then most countries in the world. It is not true that criminals dont get arrested. Criminals of rape and murder getting more punishment then European countries
no it is not.
A traitor tries to show his country bad...
A traitor “opposing” tries to show Turkiye bad. hahaha. Turkiye is one of the safest country on the earth. Does that mean you will be safe %100? No. Of course its not. You will be safe %99. But a crime occurs to you by luck, you can go to police which is more trustworthy than European law enforcers.
you hear about rapes in turkey every f’ing day.
This was my dream trip. I watch a lot of Turkish films to learn language, but now this bombing of a busy pedestrian street in Istanbul has me changing my mind especially since I just read Turkey is whispering bomb was fault of Kurds or America. America? Seriously?
Mexico is Probably as Safe as Turkey for Tourists!
We’ll, just to reassure you about Mexico, I live and travel throughout this country. What is dangerous for a US government employee, vis a vis kidnappings etc, is not necessarily the case for tourists. Caution is needed everywhere in the world, including Brooklyn, New York!
Thanks for weighing in on Turkey! It seems the most helpful sources are those that live in the country in question.
Get your facts right and stop blaming Turkey!!!!
Sure, whatever fits your agenda, “Travel Enthusiasts”. That Kurdish terrorist group doesn’t target the government, but us, the people!!! Go check some of the explosions that were undertaken by PKK in Turkey! After all, you were not there and you never had to lose one of your loved ones because of those sick, disgusting pigs. Shame on you!
Unlike this article terrorism attack risk is too low
This article is really so exaggrated.Turkey is absolutely same with U.S .All the countries have dangerous streets like Skid Row Street in Los Angeles.It doesn’t make dangerous whole country.By the way there is no risk about terrorism if you don’t visit east side of Turkey.But the other risks are accurate.You need to protect yourself from muggling especially if you are in a crowded city like Istanbul or Ankara but this risk is low in Izmir,Antalya and the other touristic cities.Izmir is one of the safest city in Turkey so I suggest you to visit there if you are so worried about safety BUT I need to say that visiting Istanbul and visiting Los Angeles are exactly the same in terms of security.
You can sleep on lara beach !
Southcoast. S east /east ankara ist izmir
food 7. 10. 10
View 10. 10. 6
Seaswim 10. – 3
Safety luxury towns 10 10. 6
Comfort 7. 10. 10
Price. $$$ $ $$$$
Alanya antalya fethiye bodrum anamur mersin
Antep adana urfa diyarbekir hatay bitlis tunceli erzurm agri van
The only place i dont know is the north coast
And not interested in.
You will enjoy Turkey if you visit.
You take a risk of a country have a blast more than the europe combine.
You go to a country that requires no visa. So anybody can come in.
You should visit Turkey while you are young, for honeymoon. Just don’t leave the wife after meeting russian german girls.
Turkey is probably the best place to visit in the world , just not to live in it.
Unless you are a footballer. 🙂
I dont agree with east is more gangerous.
Ankara and istanbul is more valnurable.
you are so wrong
I will still go to turkey cause it is-sure it borders syria but it does not let any terorists go to turkey
Felt safer than mentioned here.
Felt safer than mentioned here, place is full of helpful people.
We drove 100 of miles from Istanbul, Cappadocia and Antalya.
No one tried to scam or anything, people are helpful and friendly.
as a tourism geographer, this review is full of lies, we are safe.
of course everyone know that media is giving people stereotypes in all channels.
As a native
It is truly unfair. 45? So you’re saying we’re worse than many African countries. Make it 25 if that helps you push your agenda.
Safe
Well, Turkey is safe. If you research on YouTube you gotta see. Also Turkey is one of the most popular destinations in the world as i know. (6th 8th something like that) There is no terrorism
This article was so wrong ppl!
Thats a shame that showing a perfect country that bad. As a Italian person, I have been in Turkey a lot and what you mentioned in this article is so not true at all. I have been in Istanbul Ankara Izmır Antalya Fethıye Mersin Kapadoccia Samsun and Rıze. Istanbul and Ankara are mix cities. They are modern but that much religious in the same time. There are living locals from both sides in there. Izmır Antalya Fethıye and Mersin was just sea culture. I had so many Turkish friends in there and they are def pro-eu. Locals and tourists women were wearing so free and modern. Bars and clubs were also good as much as I didnt think. I even joined pride walk eith thousand of Turkish ppl years ago in Mersin and Izmır. So not expected at all! Kapadoccia was amazing, I cant even say something. Rıze and Samsun had a wheather and forest same as I saw in Ukraine but locals were religious in there. What I see is; South and west sea coast european and safe, capital and Istanbul are mix, north is religious.
Life expectancy in Turkey is higher than in USA as of 2021. I dunno what they are talking about XD
Life expectancy?
That’s because USA people eat sooo much unhealthy processed and fast food and die from diabetes, heart disease, cancers, dementia, and obesity, not because it’s any more or less dangerous. However, USA does not border Syria type dangers. It has its Issues but not that.
Atatürk Airport is out of operation for public aviation since April 6, 2019. All flights are transferred to Istanbul Airport, in Arnavutköy, except for military and freight.
The new Istanbul Airport is serviced by Havaist bus services from various locations in Istanbul.
Not a place to visit.
I just got back from Turkey and that place is horrible. They find every way to exploit you once they know you are a tourist. Taxi drivers drive soo reckless they dont care. They cheat you asking for more money, the switch your cash if you are not watching lying you gave them less once the notes look almost the same. They rip you off. My overall experience with the taxi, people and driving was so horrible I am never going back or advice anyone to go.
How easy to critisize the whole country with a single nasty experience which is highly doubtful… Shame on you…
I couldn’t agree more Garvin Smith on every single fact you mentioned.
I would never go back to Turkey:((
July 09, 2022
Absolutely true, had one of the worst experiences in Turkey, the Cab driven threaten u , cheat u and when we complained to the cops at the airport they did nothing about, it. Absolutely disastrous day with uber cabas well. Not safe at all, please avoid this nation if its in your travel list. Absolutely not worth it
How current is this article?
Why are there no dates of when this article was posted, or when comments were posted? How current is this article? Is this as of August 2021?
Ditto
I was wondering the exact same thing! Would be nice to have some context here…
Beautiful
Come on. Turkey is one of the nicest and safest country to visit. Delicious food, nice people, and beautiful women. And there many ancient ruins to enjoy and wonderful sceneries. The USA or UK are much less safer for tourists.
Great
I travelled through Turky for 1 month and I would have stayd longer if my visa had allowed it. Turkey is a great country with tje most hospitable people in the world. I travelled to Istanbul, Ankara, Konya and Trabzon. The further away you get from Istanbul the friendlier the people get, and the cheaper and better the food gets (I love Istanbul anyways). I have to say that I never felt unsafe or uneasy during my whole trip.
Where are u from?
Your title lists 9 cities in Turkey. 7 of them is in green (safety high), and two of them is orange (safety medium) where almost all of the countries people live (istanbul). As a little math and lets say you are right about the safety level of medium cities, the overall ratio must be at least 65, where you have chosen 45… Congratulations…
Turkey is safe and exciting
I have to say this: I think saying that Turkey has a HIGH risk is not fair, not fair at all. From personal experience and from the experience of friends and family who have visited multiple cities in Turkey, we can all say that Turkey deserves a much better rating. It’s currently rated with a 45 on the Safety Index and imho this should be closer to 70 or more. I will mention why I think this is the case below.
Safety wise, I feel Turkey has a lot of safe cities and just a few areas in a few cities that are rather dangerous. But you can’t give it such a low rating just because of that. This country is filled with friendly, welcoming people. These people are hospitable and they will even help you if you have trouble. Just to give you an example: my phone was stolen in a market and some seller there saw what had happened. He came right over, talked to me and encouraged me. I was sad that I had lost some important numbers. It honestly felt good to have someone to talk to at that moment. And like this person, there are so many in Turkey.
Most people that have visited this country have a good impression of it and its people. And there’s so, so much to see and do here. Their food is amazing, they like to haggle when trying to sell you something and I can understand that – it’s just their nature – and maybe some people are put off by this thing but not me. I see why they do it and sometimes, it’s fun to negotiate a bit.
I haven’t yet been to a city that I did not like. There’s always one or more things to like. Visited Alanya, Istanbul, Antalya, Bursa and Kusadasi. All great cities, with some pickpockets here and there (but which relatively big city doesn’t have them?). And I don’t see Turkey having a High terrorism risk. Maybe medium, yes. You never know what can happen of course, but we should just scare people away like that.
I visited Turkey before COVID 19 hit, and again at the end of Nov/Dec 2021… I traveled solo, I took precautions as I would in any other country. people are mostly friendly and helpful, except for some of the staff at The New Airport, especially the female attendants for the Queue, I had never felt so much aggression towards people, I thought this is not a good start. Remember the tourist pays your salary.
Apart from this, I enjoyed Istanbul very much and I will return again. The only other Negative I felt was the older Male Receptionist at the Hotel I stayed at I was afraid of because practically every time I used the lift he came in beside me stood so close in my personal space and stared me out. Needless to say, I moved to another Hotel.
There is currently war in Ukraine and the safety level is around 30. But normal day in Turkey is 45? How recent is this? There is no war, terrorism, or anything like that in here right now. I am Turkish but I lived in Italy, France and traveled most of the EU. I would say might not be as safe as Florence but bigger cities like İzmir, Ankara, and İstanbul are a lot safer than cities like Athens and Budapest, etc.
You might need to be careful about taxi drivers that might try to overcharge you or pickpocketers like in every big city, especially in İstanbul. But other than that there is nothing to ‘get scared’. -March 2022
Love Turkey ❤️
I am Australian born from Italian parents and I also think that this is wrong, I went for 5 weeks between Istanbul, Antalya, Kas, Fethiye and back to Istanbul and yes there are people who tried to get extra money here and there out of me but hey that is usually normal when you’re a tourist and don’t speak the language… try going to Rome and see what happens… it shouldn’t be but it is, so as tourists you need to lighten up a little and go with the flow of things.
I felt so safe, one time I had to walk for 30 mins through many dark back streets at night as I couldn’t get a taxi and it was raining on and off, and as much as I was worried it was perfectly safe with girls walking through the alleys also.
I never once felt at risk, and everyone is friendly. I went from Dec 6 to Jan 14 2022 and wished I could have stayed.
Am looking to move there for good this year if all goes to plan… had enough of Sydney Australia, born and raised here but this country isn’t what it used to be, slowly going to the dogs because of our fantastic government agendas and prison lockdowns for 2 years.
Rather be closer to Europe and enjoy culture and history…
Hi ,
I like your reviews, and I’m writing here because ,in few days I’m traveling to Turkey myself 65 woman plus a dog on my backseat of the car . So , of course I have some worriers about turkies people . I’ve been few times to Istambul . This time , just west coast , along the sea up to Antalia , along nice beaches , to stay a bit warmer than my country can offer.
Hope nothing bad could happen to me there .
BEWARE OF THIS
I am a Turkish guy who lives in İstanbul. Kindly warn all of my women fellas, West of Turkey might be safer but mostly Turkey isn’t safe for SOLO WOMEN travelers, those creepy perverts won’t harras you if you are with a man. If you hear someone who tells you that women are very safe in Turkey, that person prabably working for a travelling agency or stu’id as hell.
True
I totally agree, and yet I am headed there in 9 days. My first time in Turkey was spent only in istanbul. I didn’t want to be among the tourists so I stayed in Istiklal, or so I thought (it was along Tarlabasi). Early morning, middle of the afternoon, early evening…NON-STOP being harassed, followed, hissed at – men just wouldn’t leave me alone. It was very uncomfortable BUT it is my favourite city on earth! I hope it has improved since, but I am sure it has not.
Happy to hear Izmir is safe though, and Antalya as I will finally get to visit them on this next trip!
Thx for your honest comments, especially a male’s perspective.
This is not objective point. I cant imagine how Italy can be more than 70 point but Turkey is 45.
I have never heard something in Turkey. Which happen in İtaly or another European cities
Do NOT go on holiday to Turkey. Every dollar you leave turns into bullets against the Kurds, Syrians, Iraqis and Cypriots murdered by the Turkish state. Turkey has invaded and occupied half of Cyprus for 50 years, part of Syria and is now invading Iraq as well. Turkey is a criminal state that does exactly what Russia does but with the tolerance of the West. Turkey is the country with the most jailed journalists in the world
Revenge on tour guide Manager didn’t like
Our small tourist bus with 12 were arrested as manager of small motel decided one of us had stolen a blanket. Instead of asking us, he had police stop us as we drove off ferry to go to Gallipoli. It took about four hours to find someone had lent a blanket to one traveller who was cold the night before.
SAFE
Be aware, this is an old article. In current day Turkey’s risk levels are mostly low eventough, it becomes medium sometimes.
Safety
The country Has a very good natural landscape and an in – order police and military combatants. But There have been many terrorist attacks, especially in the last few years, if anyone wanted to go there they had to make sure that their belongings are safe.
NOTE: Avoid Walking in the streets at midnight, several crime cases like kidnapping has been reported at the time.
Very distressing
Given how popular Turkey has become for golfing holidays I feel that British citizens need to be aware that, if your Husband dies suddenly in Turkey, as mine did 4 months ago, be prepared that Turkish authorities will impose Muslim culture and therefore rules upon the family. Widows are treated in the same way as divorcees and seen as a threat. I have been in battle with the British consulate to get my beloved husbands belongings back and they just will not let me have them. I am also struggling to obtain a cure of death and will have to wait several more months before I have more information. I cannot grieve for my husband properly and I am desperate for closure on a Turkey. Please wives and girlfriends, be aware of the agony your family will face if you lose your partner in Turkey.
Turkey is safe to visit
Turkey is the best place to visit and it is safe.
As A British Tourist , I would like to say that Turkey is Safe if you follow the rules and Guidelines. There is a risk of Terrorist attacks, but these are only used to Target the Government , Military People and Workers.
Turkey is fine, the government is the worty
I lived in Turkey for many years and my children were born there (Etiler) to their Turkish mother – best food ever, worst traffic ever, sort of insane people (screaming matches all the time) but I did love to go on the roof of my building when the first call to prayer echoed through the city, very, very dramatic. I was able to maintain my status as a hard drinking American but now I guess they are clamping down on that a bit? If you are a typically obnoxious American you will have problems but if you respect Turks they will reciprocate 100% – visit a place on the Bosporus for brunch, you won’t be disappointed- my wife was almost killed at the HSBC bomb site so there is risk
Loved it and will go again soon
I’m a British woman and I cannot say one bad word about Turkey. I think that people’s opinions are shaped by their experiences. I stopped in Istambul for three days en route to Zanzibar as I was flying with Turkish Airlines in 2019. I loved the architecture, I loved the food and people were friendly and helpful. Last year I spent two weeks in Calis Beach, which is next to Fethyie and I had a great time. I also visited Olu Deniz. I enjoyed scuba diving, kayaking and shopping at the Friday’s market in Fethyie.
If you don’t drink to excess, don’t take drugs, don’t wander on your own at dark and don’t mix with the wrong crowd, you significantly minimise the risk of trouble anywhere in the world. I spent 9 weeks in South East Asia in 2017, 6 weeks in Mexico in 2018 and 4 weeks in Sri Lanka in 2018 and I never had any problem.
An absolute disastrous experience when I think of Turkey. Airport Taxis are thugs of A grade and very unsafe. Never recommending anybody to travel to Turkey for Tourism. Even if you complain to the cops of the taxi guys threatening you to pay more than the meter , they never bother . Nothing worth seeing here. please dont waste your time and mental peace
Solo woman in 2019. Safe BUT near Grand Bazaar some men loiter and I had one ask me (in a polite tone) sometime around 6pm if I can go home with him but he kept persisting and even walking with me as I walked away! Never experienced that before. He was small and I didnt feel scared but VERY uncomfortable. Also beware of hamams if you have asthma. I had a horrible episode the last day and was almost denied boarding my flight!
Why no mersn
mersin