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Is Istanbul Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Turkey : Safety by City

Istanbul is Turkey’s most popular as well as the most populous city with an estimated population between 12 and 19 million people.

It is one of the largest cities in the entire world as well as Europe, and it’s the cultural, architectural, social and financial center of Turkey.

A geographically peculiar and unique trait of Istanbul is that it spreads along both sides of the Bosphorus, between the Black Sea and the Marmara Sea.

If you go to Istanbul, you won’t easily forget its skylines, filled with domes and minarets of various sizes and heights and its vibrant streets filled with vendors, Turkish markets, restaurants, and unique eastern culture.

What tourists often emphasize as their favorite part of Istanbul experience is the unique Middle Eastern cuisine, with baklavas as their number one dessert specialty.

• Warnings & Dangers in Istanbul

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Istanbul is safe to visit if you avoid some parts of it that are considered somewhat dangerous. You should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops, and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists here, too.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Generally, transport in Istanbul is rather safe and reliable, if you succeed to avoid pickpockets from public transport. If you're driving you should keep in mind that local drivers in the city are reckless and tend to ignore traffic rules and signs.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

As for pickpocketing, it is a huge concern on the streets of Istanbul, which is a popular tourist destination, so be careful and hold your bags tightly by your side. Places, where you should watch out for pickpockets, are Taksim Square, Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar in Istanbul.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

As for natural disasters, earthquakes have been known to hit Turkey, as well as severe droughts causing the lack of tap water in some parts of this country.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The majority of violent crime happens sometimes in Istanbul, and there have been reports of tourists being mugged, drugged and stolen from. Passports have known to be stolen from tourists, so be careful and leave them in your accommodation.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorism is the greatest worry for tourists, as it's been active in Turkey in recent years. The last terrorist attack happened in January 2017. Most of these attacks are linked to Kurdish separatist terrorist activities in south-east Turkey.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

The common scam in Istanbul and the rest of Turkey is locals befriending tourists, taking them out for a drink, or dinner and then expecting the tourist to pay for it. Taxi drivers might try to trick you into paying more, giving you wrongful information about the price of the ride.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

If you're a woman traveling solo you should avoid walking alone after dark in this city. There have been reports of sexual assaults and verbal insults. These can happen even if you are accompanied by a group. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas.

• So... How Safe Is Istanbul Really?

Istanbul is mostly safe when it comes to crime and its biggest risks stem from the political situation in Turkey as well as terrorist threats.

However, that isn’t to say that violent, as well as petty crimes, don’t exist in Istanbul: snatching, pickpocketing, and mugging are the most common kinds of petty crime.

However, lately, with the newly developed camera network that supervises the streets of Istanbul 24/7, the mugging and purse snatching declined.

It is useful to know that once you leave the big city of Istanbul, you’re in a mostly safe zone where tourists have had nothing but positive experiences.

Another advice that might come in handy in Istanbul is that you should take every precaution while driving, as drivers in this city are mostly reckless and completely ignoring traffic signs, commonly causing traffic accidents.

Apart from this, transport is mostly safe in Turkey and works quite well.

The real danger in Istanbul and the rest of Turkey and the reason many tourists are skeptic when it comes to safety in this city, are the continuous and frequent terrorist attacks all around Turkey that have to do with the political situation in the state and most of them are linked to Kurdish separatist terrorist activities in south-east Turkey.

However, recently the situation has settled and the last attack happened in January 2017.

• How Does Istanbul Compare?
• Useful Information

Some nationals do need a visa to enter Turkey, but they can be purchased online at http://www.evisa.gov.tr/ before traveling to Turkey. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past the date of your arrival to Turkey. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The Turkish lira is the official currency in Istanbul. ATMs are widespread throughout the city and credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.

No worries when it comes to climate - Istanbul has a temperate oceanic climate, influenced by a continental climate. This means the city boasts hot and humid summers, though it does have cold, wet and occasionally snowy winters.

Istanbul Atatürk Airport is the main and busiest international airport serving Istanbul and the biggest airport in Turkey. It is located on the European side of the city, about 24 km west of the city center.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Istanbul, because it would cover not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Istanbul Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Turkey - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

27 Reviews on Istanbul

As a native.

Speaking as someone who lived in Istanbul for 15 years, remember that there’s all types of people that you could possibly see all over the world. Housing roughly 14 million, there are many people that moved from the eastern parts of Turkey, eastern and western neighbors of Turkey, US, UK and other Turkic countries. The information about terrorism is outdated as there hasn’t been any terrorism act for years. Go with the crowd, be careful at night as people of all intentions might be out there. Also don’t speak your opinion about inner affairs of Turkey as everybody is just very tense about it.

Do not mix with locals who speak good English. Stay alert.

Istanbul is famous for tourist scam which generally targets solo travellers. Locals speaking good English befriended with solo traveeler and take them to guide turkey in evening then tskes them to taksim square . Where lot of Turkish dznce bar are available. They serve you raki and persuade you to dance with girls. At the end the bills presented to tiu which is eye popping. I was trapped very first day and payed around huge euro. They will take you to atm to withdraw money. Due to fear of physical harm you better pay and leave and come back hotel. Very bad experience.

Don’t go drinking with strangers

That’s pretty dumb, did you do any research before you went to Istanbul? In your home country do you go drinking with friendly strangers? Duh 🙄

Good advice — this happened to me when I was working as a young professional based in Istanbul all the way back in 1991 (lived in Istanbul for 18 months) then returned to NYC. I should have paid more attention — a seemingly nice English speaking guy befriended me at the Whimpy burger restaurant …. then suggested we go to a local bar …. as soon as we walked and the “b girls” came to sit with us, I knew I was in trouble so immediately ask for the check. I ended up paying the equivalent of several hundred USD (a lot back then, for me anyway). Kind of stupid I know…. Lesson learned.

You could be jailed for speaking about politics. Don’t criticise anyone to be on the safe side. Also don’t get into arguments with racists, as some see Kurdish and Armenians as the enemy.

Please don’t give wrong info

Great destination

My wife and I visited and stayed a week. The place is very busy but it is fantastic. Never felt threatened and would recommend it to anyone.

I am going there and I haven’t been able to find any travel agencies to get a ride with. Would you know of any? Please and thank you

I went in 2010 to visit and I was not told Turkish men like black women. I was approached and immediately panicked. Told the man I was married and he continued to flirt stating he liked the way my hips looked. I thought I was going to be taken, walked passed police and showed I was in distress. No assistance forgot how to get to my hotel that was on the strip, never been so scared. But other than that Izmir and Istanbul was a lovely place to visit.

So, how was he? 😂😂

My Turkey Review

I have been to Istanbul four or five times over hee past 14 years and it is just wonderful.

I never had a problem and the people are helpful and friendly, most speak fairly good English.

I have been four times for several days and we made day trips all over Turkey. The people are handsome and friendly.

There might be a bad apple here and there but in five or more trips I never saw any of that anywhere!

Torley is beautiful, friendly, and flooded with American and European tourists.

There is some wonderful food all over Istanbul, walked in the parks and took hotel taxis if we went out at night, Turkey is a truly wonderful country and the people are just handsome and friendly.

Turkey and its cities, and people are world-class and I just love Turkey and Izmir is just as wonderful.

Ephesus is a marvel. I have been many times. I don’t care what some say about Turkey. Turkey is wonderful, beautiful and the people are just the best.

Go when you can, it is glorious! In my next life, I am going to live in Istanbul. Ephesus is truly a wonder.

Turkish men are similar to Italian men and take care of their mothers way more than other cultures usually do.

Is it dangerious

Ukrian conflict? I am scared to come?

No conflict at all, you can visit peacefully 🙂

came back today 22/3/22…had a wonderful time here…..prices of good cheaper than home country zar. had lovely experience in snow,,,,came to old crown plaza which was very central.lots of things to do there.

Avoid showing interest in Retail environment

Cultural diversity and customs are very traditional still in Turkey and interpretation is very much in default of maintaining the status quo there. Business and conduct in retail is on a different wavelength. If you “stroll” through a Bazaar, the retail owners see your very presence there as an intended purchase of their wares. Browsing and window shopping are Western concepts that the Eastern business world do not comprehend the same way we do. If you find yourself in a hotel where the ” put on ” entertainment events and you do not immediately get up and leave, then that is considered you are staying for the show which has additional costs associated with it. Belly dancers do not dance for nothing in return. Salmone in the Bible expected King Harod to honour his promise. Whilst you are unlikely to pay with your head on a plate, you will however be expected to discharge money for photos taken of you at a belly dance . Your presence at these shows is a demonstration of intent to buy in East style business. As for friendly drink or dinner invites from locals to tourists, immediately decline with a smile or expect you will pay if you agree to the social interaction. Asking questions in a retail environment is an indication that you ” want” to buy. They don’t do product information demos in Turkey. Accept a free sample at your peril.

It’s Salome I think, but true about no concept of browzing. Same in Greece.

Wonderful and safe for family travel

Traveling here currently with my husband and 3 kids. Felt pickpocketing was not an issue like Paris and Barcelona. We have felt very safe despite the crowds and free to browse the shops. The metro is safe and clean and the waterfront is great for evening strolls. Just as any big city-be street smart. We will be back!

I would never recommend Istanbul to anyone because of the horrendous experience we had. With my wife and a 3 year old daughter, I wanted to find a hotel to keep our bags after we check out from a 5* hotel and before we catch our midnight flight, we went to hotel in Fatih area. They asked for $40 to keep bags for 5 hours but they insisted me to check the room size before taking it. Leaving my wife and daughter at the lobby, I followed an young guy who claimed himself as the care taker of the hotel property. We took the lift to the 3rd floor and as we reached the room, he opened the room. After opening the door, he was keeping his hands on doors to block me since he didn’t want to let me in. His attitude has completely changed then he and started to scream and rushed to the lobby using the emergency exit staircase. I had no clue what was happening. Since I didn’t want to stand there alone and I decided to use the same stairs and as I reached the lobby, I noticed the the same guy was screaming at my wife in Turkish and telling something in their language to a senior guy from the hotel front desk. My wife and I started to run away without waiting a second there out of fear and sniffing something these guys are cooking up. But they chased us and one guy did beat me up right on my face and started yelling that I can’t leave the place before the cops arrives and they said they have already called the cops. Someone there translated to us in English that this guy is claiming that I have grabbed his buttocks when he was unlocking the door and they are ok to settle it before the cop arrives. My wife and I struggled to run away from the scene with an young child on pram. As much as we tried to run, the guys chased us and finally we found a few guys at an another alleyway who helped and talked for us holding the main guys and in the meantime, we ran from there and we did hide ourself in an car garage for good 15 mins. Finally we escaped from their and rushed to catch a cab to hagia Sofia and saved ourself from the ordeal. Never again to Turkey.

Unlucky choice of area

Fatih is a terrible area in Istanbul, I avoid those areas as someone who grew up there. Sad that you had to go through this

Hi, where is a good area to stay in Istanbul and within the touristy areas? I have booked hotels near the blue mosque area. Thank u

There is no good area in istanbul

We stayed at a hotel in Taxim area, it was really great and we had a good time. I think wherever you decide to go, you should make sure to read Hotel reviews from different places like booking.com or google map and then book your hotel. Never stay at a place without researching it in prior.

Know common scams and issues and stay sharp and you should be fine.

dream of istanbul

istanbul is really my dream. i visited it 6 times only one time i was stolen in the train. but after corona covid i m afraid to go there. but my hope is to continuou my life in istanbul nd buy a little apartment in sultan ahmet nd stay there

Istanbul: several scams

I was the victim of a scam at Istanbul Airport (IST) these days.

I had booked a transfer service even before the trip. However, when I arrived in Istanbul, I did not meet my driver at the agreed departure gate. I spoke to another driver at the same location and he allegedly called the person who was supposed to pick me up. I was induced to run the race with what I found at the airport. The price was charged in Turkish Lira and in the end I paid almost 4 times the usual amount for the distance covered. I didn’t know the Turkish Lira exchange rate.

I went to the police, but they did not file a report. The manager of the hotel where I stayed said that there is a big mafia in car transport in that airport and in the city as well. Uber, for example, does not work in Istanbul.

The guide I had hired did not show up the next day. At the hotel, you receive less than the amount paid and they try to overcharge you whenever possible.

I was robbed and there is a lot of tourist opportunism and exploitation in Istanbul. The experience was terrible and I came back very disappointed. I do not recommend Istanbul and Turkey to anyone.

I’m sorry for the negative experience you had. However, it is not rational and unacceptable for you to blame the whole country. I have traveled to many European countries. Sometimes we can experience unpleasant situations, even if we don’t want to. When coming from the airport to the city center, you should only prefer commercial taxis. And soon the metro line will be opened. Please report your negative experience at the hotel to the Ministry of Tourism or TURSAB. Surely they will be interested. Turkish people are extremely hospitable.

Horrible police ,beat up tourists

Corrupt police and a lot of arbitrary detention

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Article Contents

• Istanbul : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Home » Middle East » Turkey » Istanbul

Is Istanbul SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

It was Constantinople, now it’s Istanbul. Before that, it was Byzantium. This world city has been a lot of things and you can see this in the richness of its culture. Incredible sights can be found all over this liberal urban sprawl that straddles Europe and Asia. Oh, and the food is just as unbelievable.

But in recent years there’s been some trouble with terrorism. High profile attacks, like one on the airport in 2016, and the constant threat of violence make it a bit concerning. Couple that news with seemingly endless tourist scamming and we get why you’d ask, “ Is Istanbul safe for tourists ?”

Don’t worry. We have created a huge insider’s guide on the best things to do to stay safe in Istanbul.  We’re all about smart travel and believe you should be able to go anywhere you want as long as you’re equipped with some great tips on staying safe. And we’ve got a lot of those.

So if you’ve got reservations about backpacking in Istanbul because of the terrorist threat, or you’re concerned since it’s your first solo travel adventure, or whatever – don’t sweat it! We understand. Our guide to staying safe in Istanbul is here for you.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Istanbul Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Istanbul.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

Is Istanbul Safe to Visit Right Now?

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Yes! Most backpackers to Turkey pass through its capital. Istanbul is definitely an awesome destination. There are plenty of things that are drawing you to this world city. History, food, and culture are just a few of the city’s appeals. It’s often cited as the crossroads between Europe and Asia.

Unfortunately, safety in Istanbul has been a concern in recent years. Sharing a border with Syria doesn’t help matters. Though Istanbul is 900 miles away from all that turmoil, there is the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks.

Though according to Euromonitor, in 2023, Istanbul was the most visited city in the world , with 20.3 million visitors ! As one of the top visited city, tourists definitely have a positive experience.

That said,  Istanbul is pretty safe.  The situation has calmed down. You may see authorities stopping people to check IDs, but that just means that security is heightened. Being vigilant and monitoring media reports is what the UK government recommends .

It’s a fairly liberal city. People stay out late and there’s a decent nightlife scene going on here. It’s fun and people are friendly.

But like most cities in the world, being aware of your surroundings will help you stay safe. Pickpockets, street beggars, and scams are less likely to affect an alert traveler.

But overall? Yes, Istanbul is safe.

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Istanbul so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Istanbul, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Istanbul below.

• Sultanahmet : Sultanahmet is the historic and cultural heart of Istanbul. It’s the oldest part of the city and is surrounded by bodies of water to the north, east and south, and old city walls to the west. This district is the best place to stay in Istanbul if you’re visiting the city for the first time as many attractions are within walking distance.
• Karaköy : Today, Karaköy is one of the city’s most hip and stylish Istanbul locations. Here you’ll find an array of vendors and stylish restaurants as well as independent shops. With its own fair share of historic and cultural attractions, this is also where you’ll find some of the most amazing views of Istanbul.
• Galata : In recent years, Galata has emerged as one of the coolest Istanbul locations. It’s in Galata where you will find the city’s hottest nightlife scene. From trendy bars and stylish clubs to relaxed pubs and funky cafes, this neighborhood has it all.

Places to Avoid in Istanbul

Is Istanbul dangerous ?!

Nope, but we recommend you avoid these unsafe places during your visit:

• Tarlabasi : Long considered Istanbul’s most dangerous neighborhood, Tarlabasi is extremely poor and crime rates are high. Even though it’s only a few blocks away from the much-loved Istiklal Street, tourists never actually end up in Tarlabasi.
• Dolapdere : A bit north of Tarlabasi you’ll find Dolapdere, which is another impoverished neighborhood. Far from being one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the world, you’ll still want to avoid the area unless you know a local resident.

Quick side note : It’s important to know that all of the places we’ve just listed CAN be visited. They just have a higher crime rate than others, but those crimes are usually not targeted toward tourists. 

Keeping your money safe in Istanbul

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

There may be a bit of a terrorist threat in Istanbul, but in general, when it comes to safety in Istanbul you’ll be fine. It’s super ready for tourists. And you’ll be even finer if you travel smartly, use your street smarts and common sense to make sure you avoid potentially dodgy situations. But since you can never over-prepare, here are a few tips for keeping safe in Istanbul.

• Keep your belongs close to you in tourist areas  – this is where pickpockets operate
• Walk around in groups if you go out at night  – just a normal city tip for almost any city.
• Watch out for ‘street children’  – near the Süleymaniye Mosque they’ve been known to surround and pickpocket unsuspecting tourists, so keep an eye out.
• Try to dress like a local  – some areas are more European, others are not. Try to be aware of where you’re visiting. But mainly everything’s quite open-minded.
• AVOID taxi scams  – these are a BIG thing (more on that later).
• Be wary of strangers  – the classic is “Would you like a drink my friend…?” One thing leads to another, you’ve got a HUGE bill and your new “friend” has scarpered.
• Don’t get a shoeshine  – you might think it’s free, it’s not. If you DO want one, definitely agree on a price beforehand. Otherwise, it will cost you, arguments ensue, a crowd can develop. Best to just NOT.
• Use a reputable tour agency  – in Turkey, these need a license. Check the TURSAB website.
• Don’t use the ‘ok’ sign?  – this means you are calling someone homosexual. This won’t go down well with Turkish men especially
• Be careful if you want to buy a Turkish rug  – there are many fakes. Research needed
• Same goes for gold coins  – fakes galore. Do your homework.
• Negotiate prices in lira  – unless you want to pay a hefty price. Plus you’re in Turkey, you shouldn’t be using US Dollars or Euros ANYWAY.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Carry small denominations  – want to pay a small amount? Have small amounts to pay with. People can be ‘forgetful’ with change!
• Don’t agree on the first price for ANYTHING  – it’s inflated, every single time. Taxis, souvenirs, whatever. Offer half and go from there.
• Never accept food or drink from a stranger -it’s been known to be laced with a sedative. Then when you’re passed out, you get robbed
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Learn to say NO  – there are a lot of scams in Istanbul. The best way to avoid getting into any bad situation is to just say “no”. Have a sense of humor and walk away.

On the whole, Istanbul is safe. And at the end of the day, the best way to avoid getting into any unsafe situation is mainly to just  watch out for strangers.  Scams are rife in Istanbul and exercising simple stranger danger (why wouldn’t you!?) and not believing everything at face value is bound to keep you safe and sound.

No doubt, Istanbul is safe to travel alone. This is a city that is very, very used to tourists visiting. Perhaps a little too used to tourists…

By which we mean, making money off tourists through scams is pretty rife. As a solo traveler, wandering around tourist sights by yourself, you’ll be more of a target. Single males especially . So here are some top tips to help you stay safe as a solo traveler in Istanbul.

• If something doesn’t feel right, like if someone starts talking to you out of the blue and being overfriendly, offering to take you somewhere “recommended”, just walk away. Don’t worry about not being polite about it.  It’s properly rife  and many fall for it since the set-ups can be pretty convincing. The general rule of thumb: don’t talk to strangers (at least when it doesn’t make sense to strike up a conversation).
• Since solo travelers are often targeted for scams, get some travel buddies! The best way to do this is by staying at a well-reviewed, well-situated, social hostel in Istanbul. This will also be a good chance to swap travel tips, stories, make actual friends , and rid yourself of the solo traveling blues. (It can get lonely!)
• But with all that said, don’t be afraid to shop. It can be  a lot of fun!  Just keep your budget in mind, know not to take the first price as the actual price, haggle your heart out and go for it.
• Learn some Turkish.  You’ll get mad respect for it. Plus it will help you get rid of people, get around, just open up the city to you – if only a little bit.
• Don’t tell people the exact address of where you’re staying. Not only is this kinda risky anyway, but this may also just bring the scams right to your doorstep!
• Walking around by yourself at night is a mixed bag. Keep an eye on what other people are doing around you. If there are a lot of people out, including families, being out after dark in this area is fine. If it’s empty and sketchy looking, it probably IS sketchy.
• Get yourself a pre-paid sim . You can get these at the airport. You’ll never get too lost, you’ll get to keep up to date with people at home, and they’ll know where you are too.
• Since scammers seem to be everywhere in Istanbul, look like you know where you’re going at all times.  Looking lost is the best way to get the wrong sort of attention, and Turkish authorities aren’t able to do much for thefts.

You’ll be happy to know that it’s safe for solo female travelers in Istanbul. As opposed to Turkey as a whole, Istanbul is pretty liberal and you’ll be basically free to do what you want when you want.

But at the end of the day, traveling solo as a female always comes with its own unique challenges . But this shouldn’t stop you from enjoying what the city has to offer. Here are a few personal safety tips and tricks below:

• Istanbul is as much a European city as it is an Asian one and as a result, the dress code is pretty casual. Women here wear pretty much what they want to wear. You won’t have to worry about  covering up  – shorts are fine, for example. Some women do cover up and dress modestly, and some women wear short skirts and show their shoulders. It’s about how comfortable you feel , as much as it is dependent on where you are. Visiting a mosque? Dress conservatively. Keeping an eye on how locals are dressing is a good gauge of what’s ok and what isn’t.
• Avoid going out by yourself late at night. It can be a bit intimidating with men in certain areas like  Istiklal Avenue  or in  Taksim . You may not actually be threatened but it can feel scary.
• Stay in a good hostel or hotel, especially one where you might be able to make friends in common areas or on tours. It’s a good idea for  staying safe in numbers , plus it’s always nice to share your experiences with someone else.
• On that note, if you feel like hitting the town, go with a group of people. And whilst you’re out,  don’t get crazy drunk . Getting tipsy is fine, but you don’t want your senses completely gone. Also, accepting drinks from strangers is a hard no.
• Understand that the culture IS different . As a woman, you might receive attention from men that feels quite hassle-y, and sometimes it is. Anything from “you’re beautiful” to practically offering marriage (seriously, this is an actual thing) is normal. Most men are polite  and will stop hassling if you politely decline any advances. If it continues, make a fuss and head to a busy area and/or alert nearby  tourist police.
• Basically, be careful of men who are overly forward and want your number, etc. They are most likely after your money.
• Catcalling is par for the course. It’s annoying and can be upsetting, but try to ignore it. This is basically  part of being a woman in Istanbul . Sad but true.
• Be confident, keep your wits about you and pretty much try not to look like an easy target. Having maps on your phone, planning routes, and getting acquainted with your local area are all good ideas.

But all said and done, Istanbul is safe for solo female travelers. You might feel intimidated, uncomfortable, and upset that people may try to scam you, but many female travelers visit Istanbul and have a great time. So will you!

Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the city’s most popular tourist destination. Home to Istanbul’s most iconic attractions, including Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, this neighbourhood is perfect for first-time visitors to the city and an awesome base for your Istanbul itinerary.

Being a pretty well-trodden tourist city, Istanbul is totally safe for families. There might be some practical problems, it might be a bit stressful, but there’s nothing to stop you from visiting with your family.

In fact, Turkey as a whole is focusing on  attracting family travelers,  which makes Istanbul a more family-oriented place.

Finding yourself a good place to stay that’s close to the main sights that you want to see is a good place to start. Make sure the reviews are good and that it genuinely does have all the facilities you need for your family. There are some pretty epic, family-friendly Airbnbs in Istanbul to choose from.

Breastfeeding in public isn’t normal, so it’s better to do it somewhere private to avoid unwanted attention.

Make sure you  agree on a meeting place  if you go to a busy area and get split up. Some sort of landmark that you can all spot will help you find each other again if you get split up.

Other than that, Istanbul is a society that  loves children! Having your children with you may even help to defuse potentially tense situations with market stallholders and shopkeepers as well as touts and hecklers.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

As Istanbul’s traffic is insane, you definitely do NOT want to drive here. There’s really no need to anyway.

Not only is the public transportation system in Istanbul  very comprehensive , but public transport in Istanbul is safe. Great news.

First things first, get yourself an  Istanbul Kart . This is a contactless card that will make traveling around Istanbul super easy . You can use it all over the city on public transport. And there are loads of different types of public transport in Istanbul.

• Trams : Trams are quick and cheap. There are five different networks.
• Metro : Our firm favorite. There are two systems, which connects large portions of the city.
• Funicular : It goes uphill (obviously) and is pretty fun.
• Ferries : Because it’s coastal, and  spans two continents . Also pretty fun!

Buses  are another story though. There are 400 different routes making it pretty confusing. It’s not very quick since they have to contend with Istanbul’s awful traffic. They get very crowded which makes pickpocketing easy. try to avoid them if you can.

In a city that seems to run rife with scams, taxi drivers are heavy offenders. Everything from simply not putting the meter on (in which case, tell them to put it on ) to taking you a massively long way around to rack up the cost.

Top tip: download the BiTaksi  app which will estimate how much your fare should cost. Good grounds for haggling! You can even book a taxi through the app.

Cycling in Istanbul is not the easiest, but it does have a vibrant and loyal number of cyclists. If you really want to get a feel for the city on two wheels, do so in a park or other bicycle-friendly locale.

Pickpocketing is the most common type of crime you’ll encounter in Istanbul. Unfortunately, it’s all too common these days and is absolutely something to prepare for. Areas of particular concern include popular tourist hotspots like Taksim Square, The Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet, and The Spice Bazaar.

Use a money belt or other hidden compartment for your wallet and phone. We’d also recommend leaving hard-to-replace valuables in your hotel room.

Terrorist attacks are a legitimate concern when visiting Istanbul. In November 2022, 6 were killed and dozens more were injured in a Taksim Square explosion . While events like these are rare, they do happen. Avoid crowded, touristy areas when and where you can.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Istanbul without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Istanbul.

What should I avoid in Istanbul?

These are the things you should avoid in Istanbul: – Don’t disrespect the culture or religion – Don’t give the ok sign (this is very offensive) – Avoid shoe shining stalls – Don’t be afraid of haggling

Is Istanbul safe at night?

Yes, it is safe to walk around the streets in Istanbul at night. While it’s still safer during the day, you’ll be unlikely to wander into a sketchy area. We’d recommend sticking with a friend or a group, just to add some extra safety to your nightly stroll.

Is Istanbul airport safe?

Absolutely! The new Istanbul Airport is one of the nicest places in the world to transit through. It was recently completed at the end of 2019 and is super safe, modern and secure.

What are dangerous areas in Istanbul?

While Istanbul is a safe city, there are areas to avoid such as the Tarlabasi neighborhood which is the most dangerous part of the city. Even locals try to avoid it. It’s unlikely that you’ll end up in there as a tourist, but if you do, make sure you get out!

Can you drink the water in Istanbul?

Nope. While it’s fine to brush your teeth with it, Istanbul’s tap water is not safe to drink. Many locals have filtered jugs that they frequently replace.

You can totally visit Istanbul, see the sights, even as a solo female traveler, eat the food, even live there – safely, too!

Honestly, though, Istanbul is  known for its scams.  This is what’s going to be instantly noticeable in tourist areas and especially the Old Town.

Don’t get a shoe shine and basically just follow the simple advice that you’ve heard since you were 3 years old: don’t talk to strangers. There are a lot of savvy scammers in Istanbul, so it pays (literally) to be savvy yourself.

Explore Istanbul, eat the food, get wrapped up in the history and culture of the streets. You’ll be fine!

Looking for more info on traveling to Istanbul?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Istanbul
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures !
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Istanbul travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

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Very good and mostly accurate review but the part about Wikipedia being blocked is not. I just pulled it up from my Turkish ISP.

It was blocked at the time the article was written and may be blocked again in the future should it offend the ruling establishment!

I have however updated the copy to reflect this.

Thank you for the information. Thankfully I have learned alot about Turkey! I started watching Turkish series 4 years ago and I love them. I loved the first series so much that I never stopped watching them. I started to watch many historical series as well and learned so much of their history. I find Turkey fascinating. The ottoman empire days were just awesome to me. I plan to visit there soon. I am a Canadian citizen although I live in the USA and I am Ukraine descent. I just can’t get enough of these turkish shows. I stopped watching American TV. No offense but I love Turkey’s traditions!

Usefull! Regarding the name of the city, all the names now and past, are Greek names since all turkey was Greek territory at the ancient years before Turkey exists as a nation!

So, the name Istanbul is combined of 3 Greek words – ???- ???- ????- which means – to the city-.

Through the years the words combined from the three Greek words into one.

Thank you for the great tips I really enjoyed reading this article I’m planing a trip to turkey with my family soon and just by reading this it felt as if i actually was there. One more issue that yiou had not addressed is the internet connectivity. Am planning to place an order for the Pocket WiFi with rent n connect let me know of this is the right choice or if there are more options on this that are better.

If you need to be connected to the internet pretty frequently for high-volume work, definitely stick to your pocket WiFi plan. If you just need it at night, your accommodation’s WiFi should be enough. 🙂

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Update April 12, 2024

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Turkey Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, turkey - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Syrian border due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Security forces have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with terrorist organizations based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated.  U.S. citizens have also been subject to travel bans that prevent them from departing Turkey. Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government (including on social media), can result in arrest.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Turkey.

If you decide to travel to Turkey:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay at hotels with identifiable security measures.
• Monitor local media and be prepared to adjust your plans quickly.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Turkey.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Sirnak Province, Hakkari Province, and Any Area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Syrian Border – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, or any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest.  Terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings, ambushes, car bomb detonations, and improvised explosive devices, as well as shootings, and illegal roadblocks leading to violence have occurred in these areas. U.S. government employees are subject to travel restrictions in the entire provinces of Sirnak and Hakkari, and any areas within 10 km of the Syrian border.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Is Istanbul safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, is the biggest city in Turkey and serves as the country’s historic, cultural and economic center. The city of Istanbul has more than 15 million residents, which is roughly 19% of Turkey’s entire population. It is also one, if not the country’s most popular tourist destination, with an average of 16 million tourists every year. This is because of the city’s rich history and culture as well as its collection of world-renowned attractions; in fact, the Turkish city is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

While Istanbul is a year-round destination, the months from June to August are considered the peak season because of the summer weather and the range of events and festivals held during this period. If you want more manageable crowds, consider Istanbul’s “shoulder season”, which takes place from March to May. During this period, prices are generally reasonable and the weather is starting to get warmer as summer approaches.

The best time to visit Istanbul depends on your personal preference; for instance, summer has the best weather but prices do increase. Winter is colder and gloomier but the rates are at their lowest. Regardless of when you decide to come, use a Bounce luggage facility in Istanbul during your visit to make your trip convenient and hassle-free.

Flying into Istanbul Airport ? Read on for details on how to have an enjoyable and safe trip in this incredible city. Traveling to Istanbul is bound to be a terrific adventure.

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Is Istanbul safe to visit right now?

As a nation, Turkey is currently ranked Level 2 in the U.S. Government Travel Advisory, which means exercising increased caution when you travel. This does not necessarily mean that you should reconsider visiting Istanbul; the city itself is predominantly safe for tourists and has a lower crime rate compared to other places outside the city limits.

Like many holiday destinations around the world, there is the risk of tourists being victims of petty crimes in Istanbul. For one, pickpocketing is a common occurrence in some of the popular tourist areas that tend to be crowded. Another potential problem is taxi driver scams designed to get more money from you.

All in all, the Turkish city is a safe destination to visit and this guide will provide some Istanbul safety tips that you can apply during your trip. You should keep in mind that it is your responsibility to ensure your own personal safety and to do additional research about the city before your trip. It's best that you check with the government travel advisory of your home country to see if there are any potential threats regarding your destination, no matter your experience as a traveler.

Top petty crimes and scams in Istanbul affecting tourists

“Is Istanbul safe?” is a question that has been asked many times by travelers from all over the world. It is predominantly safe in Istanbul for tourists, whether solo travelers or family travelers.

There are some potential crimes and scams that you need to look out for during your stay. Turkish authorities are aiding in preventing these petty crimes to keep tourism alive in the city.

Pickpocketing and purse snatching

Perhaps the most common petty crime in Istanbul is pickpocketing; many tourists and locals in the city have reported occurrences of purse snatching. Most of these crimes are even carried out by children in tourist hotspots such as the Topkapi Palace and Taksim Square. To avoid falling victim to this wrongdoing, consider a belt or bag that is hidden from sight and leave your important items in your hotel safe.

Or keep your important belongings in a Bounce luggage location in Istanbul to ensure that they are secure. Another thing that you can do is purchase travel insurance before your trip, to help you recover the value of your stolen items if you do fall victim to pickpockets.

Taxi drivers scam

Another popular scam that can affect visitors in Istanbul is one pulled by local drivers of taxis. They either charge you a fixed rate that is double the usual fare that you would normally pay on a metered taxi or they pretend they don’t have change for your money so they can keep the excess. To avoid falling prey to this scam, insist that you stick to the metered rate and prepare small notes before you go on a taxi ride.

Shoe shine scam

One common scam that is unique to Istanbul is the “shoe shine scam.” Shoe shining is a traditional trade in the city and it is not surprising to find shoe cleaners in a busy area in the city. The scam involves the shoe cleaner pretending to drop their brush in the presence of a tourist. Once the tourist picks up the brush and returns it to the shoe cleaner, they then offer their services for free and share a story about making ends meet.

After the cleaning, the shoe cleaner will suddenly charge the tourist an exorbitant amount and guilt them into paying. The simplest way to avoid this is to not engage with the shoe cleaners no matter how hard they try to get your attention.

Currency scam

Beware of the currency scam, which is when shops and vendors charge a tourist’s credit card in Euros instead of Turkish Lira . Since the Euro has a higher value than Lira, you're essentially paying for items at an extra cost and will be charged expensive exchange fees. To avoid this, make sure that the shop’s card machine is charging in the local currency or simply pay using cash.

Is Istanbul safe to travel alone

The simple reply to, "Is Istanbul safe to travel alone" is YES. Safety in Istanbul is not that big of a concern, even for a solo traveler. What's more, the Turkish people are warm and welcoming to visitors. However, as mentioned, there are some instances that one has to be aware of when planning to visit Istanbul. For solo female travelers that are planning a trip, know that Istanbul is generally a very safe city for women. In fact, Turkey ranks 30th on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index , with little occurrence of crimes on females.

While Istanbul is safe in general, this does not mean that there is no likelihood of trouble, especially if you're a solo female traveler. Needless to say, it is still best to exercise common sense when you're out exploring on your own. Even though Turkish hospitality is a huge part of the city's culture, it is best practice to avoid instances such as accepting drinks from strangers.

Safest neighborhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul is a large city and there is no shortage of accommodations to choose from. You should definitely consider if the area you're staying in is safe and easy to explore. Below are some of the safest neighborhoods in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet

Located on the European side of Istanbul, Sultanahmet is the city’s historic district and the most popular area to stay in for tourists. The area is home to most of the city’s prominent attractions, such as the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia and the famous Grand Bazaar (also known as the Spice Bazaar). It is also home to Istanbul’s top-rated hotels and hostels, most of which are walking distance from the best sights.

While it is a popular tourist area, the neighborhood of Taksim is spacious and more conducive for walking. The district is home to the famous Taksim Square and has numerous public gardens as well as a pedestrian-only street filled with street food vendors, restaurants, shops and other bustling establishments.

Nişantaşi is an upscale district known as a luxury residential and shopping destination. The neighborhood is not part of the usual tourist route but it does offer a quieter and more lavish escape for those who want to get away from the crowds.

Is Istanbul public transportation safe?

You might be wondering if Istanbul is safe when it comes to using public transport, which is a valid concern. The city’s public transportation is efficient, affordable and easy to figure out. The downside is that public transport can get extremely crowded, especially during rush hour, hence why most pickpockets and thieves target places such as train stations and buses.

If you're using public transportation in Istanbul, be mindful of your belongings and your surroundings. Don’t leave your wallet or mobile phone in your pocket where it can be easily snatched.

Important emergency numbers in Istanbul

Despite having prepared everything for your trip, there are instances where you might need assistance from local authorities. It is good practice to take note of emergency numbers of the destination that you're planning to visit. For Istanbul, here are some of the vital contacts to take note of:

• Tourism Police: +90 212 527 4503
• Medical emergency: 112
• Poison Emergency: 114
• Police: 155

Additionally, it is best to be aware of your country's embassy number.

Visit Istanbul safely

Safety in Istanbul may be a concern for some but all in all, the Turkish city is safe for tourists and definitely worth making the trip for. Remember to exercise caution and use your better judgment when making decisions.

Check out our guide on Where to Stay in Istanbul: The Ultimate Guide for wonderful accommodation information. To learn about transportation, you'll find it helpful to read our guide on How to Get Around Istanbul .

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Is It Safe to Visit Istanbul Right Now?

By Ashlea Halpern

On January 12, 2018, the U.S. State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Turkey , asking its citizens to "reconsider travel … due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions." Specifically, it cautioned against traveling in the southeastern provinces along the Turkey-Syria border, and to be vigilant in places with large crowds, such as airports, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and clubs.

The Level 3 classification puts Turkey in the company of Sudan and Haiti , and one step below no-go zones like Afghanistan and North Korea . (Iceland, by contrast, is classified as Level 1, where “normal precautions” apply.) The United States isn’t alone in its assessment; the U.K. Foreign & Commonwealth Office has also cited a heightened risk of a terrorist attack in Turkey , listing “Kurdish groups, Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL), and far left organizations” as potential perpetrators.

Does that mean you shouldn’t go to Turkey right now? Not necessarily.

“The question of safety is sadly one that now affects every major tourism destination, as we’ve seen in Paris, Nice, London, Madrid, Sydney, Berlin, Copenhagen, New York, Boston, and even Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, Florida,” says Ralph Radtke, general manager of the five-star Çırağan Palace Kempinski hotel in Istanbul. It’s important to keep some perspective. “In Turkey, for example, the distance between Istanbul and the farthest regions in its southeast is roughly 900 miles—greater than the distance between London and Rome or New York and Texas,” observes Radtke.

How exactly, then, does the State Department come up with its ratings?

“We look at the totality of circumstances, including such factors as crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest, health and natural disaster, and current events,” explains a State Department official, speaking to Condé Nast Traveler on condition of anonymity. “The primary drivers of the [Level 3] classification are terrorism and arbitrary detention. So while street crime in Turkey is relatively low, that’s separate from terrorism. And what makes terrorism challenging is that terrorist attacks can occur with little or no warning.”

The administration works with government partners to assess credible threat information and determine which types of places are most likely to be targeted by terrorists. “That’s not solely Istanbul-specific,” the official continues. “That’s the kind of target in any place with a heightened terrorist risk.”

Unfortunately, a string of high-profile attacks—including a 2016 suicide bombing in touristy Sultanahmet Square (near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia) and a mass shooting at ritzy nightclub on New Year’s Day— crippled Turkey’s tourism economy . But the biggest blow, at least for many working in hospitality, was the June 28, 2016 attack at Istanbul Atatürk Airport . Forty-one people died and 230 were injured.

“The attack at the airport and then the coup were the final straw,” says Earl Starkey , an Istanbul-based Turkey travel specialist from Protravel International. “After that we got no bookings at all. Maybe one or two in 2017.”

By January 2017, tourism had fallen 19 percent from the previous year. Hotels slashed room rates in an attempt to increase occupancy. Tour guides went a year or more without work; other were forced to lead outbound tours or focus on the Asian market. Some tour companies, like London-based outfitter Travel the Unknown , suspended trips to Turkey altogether.

But with the passage of time, and international media focusing its attention elsewhere, things have slowly begun to rebound. Locals working in the service sector have suffered for years, says Riza Yenice, one of Starkey’s most trusted Turkish tour guides, but the recovery now is palpable. “There are really long lines getting into museums and mosques and even markets,” says Yenice. “Seeing [the return of] tour groups and individual travelers is really cheering us up and giving [us] hope.”

Intrepid Travel , which offers a dozen small-group itineraries in Turkey, reports that the country is currently its fastest growing in terms of global bookings, with a 368 percent increase over last year. While travelers appear keen to take advantage of the favorable exchange rate, warnings from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have pushed Intrepid to rethink some of its itineraries.

“We wouldn’t consider going to a region with a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning. However, Istanbul and Van are categorized at the next level and we do travel there,” says Jen Hartin, Intrepid’s Istanbul-based destination manager for Turkey and the Middle East. “Our team in Turkey have the local knowledge and contacts to avoid any situations. For example, we’re still being cautious and ensuring our leaders avoid taking groups into public events, fairs, and parades while they’re on a trip.”

By Starkey’s estimate, the U.S. State Department’s Level 3 warning may be driven by the fact that Turkey is technically still in a state of emergency since the coup. A snap election has been planned for June 24, around which he would advise travelers to “avoid political rallies or large crowds until the elections are over.” But mostly, he believes the warning has “more to do with politics than any real danger,” noting that Russia also has a Level 3 categorization right now.

Yenice concurs, noting that there are “crazy leaders everywhere.” Turkey is a melting pot, she says, adding that “we have always lived [in] harmony with cultural and religious diversity. Despite these difficult times, it will always continue this way. If we felt unsafe due to the instability, we would have already left. But we didn’t, and we have no regrets.”

With the first phase of the Istanbul New Airport slated to open in late October, Turkey has a golden opportunity to reboot its tourism economy. By the airport’s intended completion in 2020, it is expected to be the largest transit hub in the world, serving 200 million passengers a year. Because the State Department reassesses Level 3 and 4 countries every six months, Turkey will also be up for re-evaluation next month. (Level 1 countries, by contrast, are examined just once a year.)

Ansel Mullins, the Chicago-born founder of food tour company Culinary Backstreets , spent 15 years living and working in Istanbul. He moved to Lisbon a year and a half ago, coincidentally flying out six hours before the attempted coup. But Mullins still visits Istanbul regularly and considers it to be as safe as ever. Like Starkey and Yenice, he pins the Level 3 rating on troubled U.S.-Turkey relations.

“Worrying about being the victim of a terrorist attack feels, to me, like worrying about being struck by lightning,” says Mullins. “Set that aside, and you’ve got what? The threat of an angry mob? As an American citizen, I’ve lived and traveled widely throughout Turkey in times when the country’s reputation was at its worst. From Diyarbakir to Mardin to Mus, I’ve always been mobbed... with hospitality! Honestly, I've never felt anything but safe here.”

While Mullins concedes that the current political situation does not make Turkey “as ‘free’ a place (for activists, journalists, academics, free-thinking folks) as it was a few years ago, it is probably more safe. Once you hit the ground, it’s all free tea and the beautiful chaos that makes the city so enchanting. For the visitor, paradise.”

Tip: If you decide to travel to Turkey (or anywhere really), sign up for STEP , the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. The free service keeps you alerted to country-specific travel advisories and helps the U.S. Embassy contact you in case of an emergency.

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Is Istanbul Safe to Visit in 2023? Guide to Staying Safe

Seren, a Turkish-American, has 23 years of experience traveling to and around Turkey and is now happy to help others learn more about Turkey.

Is Istanbul safe for tourists? Many travelers have this question before setting out to explore a big metropolitan city. Istanbul, a hub of diverse cultures nestled between Europe and Asia, is renowned for its ancient history, delicious foods, and much more.

But just because it’s so beautiful doesn’t mean that you can not care about safeguarding your personal safety. Thankfully, I’ve rarely felt unsafe in Istanbul and I’ve been there a lot over many years. But I owe a lot of that to following basic safety measures. Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying safe in the big city of Istanbul:

Safety Concerns in Istanbul

Avoid bad neighborhoods.

Some neighborhoods are rougher than others, so it’s important to stay aware of where you are. You won’t want to go anywhere near Tarlabaşı, Dolapdere, Gaziosmanpaşa, Laleli, Aksaray, Esenyurt, and Sultanbeyli – basically, just stick to the touristy, more suburban areas and you’ll be a lot safer.

If you’re a woman (especially traveling solo), this is even more important for you! These neighborhoods are more religiously conservative, so it’s important for a woman’s safety that you’re covered up as much as possible. If you don’t want to do that, just stay where other tourists are.

Safe Areas (And Where You Should Stay)

Some neighborhoods in Istanbul offer a lot of (safe) fun for tourists, so you’re going to want to take a note of these. Neighborhoods like Nisantasi, Beyoglu, Zincirlikuyu, Arnavutkoy, Bebek, and Karakoy are great on the European side. On the Asian side, neighborhoods like Kadikoy, Maltepe, Caddebostan, and Fenerbahce are great.

If you’re choosing between the European side or the Asian side, I’d recommend staying on the European side but doing day trips with taxis to the Asian side. That way, you’ll be much closer to the airport and get to experience both sides of Istanbul.

Warnings & Dangers in Istanbul

Transport & taxis risk.

In general, public transportation and taxis are safe for tourists and foreigners. According to locals, taxies on the European side have started to be ruder to tourists over the past few years. I’m not sure why, but that’s just the way it is. You’ll still be able to take a taxi places, but do a little research beforehand on how much taxi fares should cost. Also, illegal taxis do go around pretending to be legitimate – real ones always have a TAKSI/TAXI sign on top of their yellow car and the name of the taxi company with its phone number on the side of the car.

For your safety, always sit in the back seat of a taxi or Uber and if solo, sit right behind the driver. This prevents the driver from easily reaching back around and touching you. If riding in an Uber, please always double check that the license plate is correct – no matter how convincing the driver is, never get into a car without verifying it first!

When it comes to flying, Turkish Airlines is extremely safe . You can definitely feel at ease when flying domestically or internationally with Turkish Airlines – the incident rate in the airlines’ 89-year history is basically 0.

Risk: Low-to-Medium

Pickpockets, Scams, & Muggings Risk

It’s safe to say you can expect that there are pickpockets and muggers walking around the highly touristic areas of Istanbul. Did you know 16 million people visited Istanbul in 2022 ? With that many people flying in from literally every part of the world, you’re bound to attract thieves who target wealthy tourists.

One common scam or way of pressuring money from tourists is a group of 3 or 4 people will play some instruments and then a guy will walk up to people in the crowd and shove his trumpet in your face until you put cash into a hat. That happened one time when my family and I were walking down Istiklal Street several years ago. Nothing happened the most recent time I was on Istiklal Street.

To improve your safety against them, I’d recommend grabbing this anti-theft protected bag from Amazon here . I personally LOVE this brand for feeling safe while traveling!

Natural Disasters Risk

As you probably already know, southern Turkey experienced a 7.8 magnitude earthquake on February 6, 2023. That’s because, just like California and Japan, Turkey is on fault lines. Fault lines are where two of Earth’s tectonic plates meet.

As you can see, Istanbul is very close to a fault line on the North Anatolian fault. And it’s not good news. According to Professor Celal Sengor of Istanbul Technical University , “If a major earthquake doesn’t happen in the next 20 years in Istanbul, then we would all be very surprised. That’s how close it is. It’s only a probability, but the probability is high.”

The odds of anything happening while you’re visiting the country for a week are super low – let’s be real. Aside from earthquakes, other natural disasters that happen outside of the main city are forest fires, floods, and landslides. That’s why there’s not much risk to you from natural disasters.

Terrorism Risk

Unfortunately, Istanbul has seen its fair share of terrorism. There have been 29 incidents since 1896, resulting in over 200 casualties. The most recent one was a bombing on November 2022 on Istiklal Street.

I’ve personally never witnessed a terrorist attack. Again, the likelihood of anything happening while you’re visiting the country for a week are super low. If you’re really worried about it, I’d recommend staying away from super touristic spots like Eminonu, Istiklal Street, and The Grand Bazaar as much as possible.

Female Solo Travelers Risk

If you’re a solo woman traveling to Istanbul, you should take extra precautions. Unfortunately, about 4 in 10 women have suffered physical and/or sexual violence by a romantic partner .That extends to the streets, meaning you should definitely dress more conservatively and try not attract attention to yourself. Always carry something that could turn into a weapon – just for extra protection and security.

Risk: Medium-to-High

What Istanbul is Like Today

Today, Istanbul is FULL of beauty, culture, and delicious food! When the weather”s sunny with blue skies it’s fun to walk the streets of the city and pop in and out of different shops and cafes. It’s also a ton of fun to visit the big, super modern shopping centers. You can grab a Shake Shack burger and then go see the latest James Bond movie. Or sit down for an Iskender Doner Kebab and then sip on Turkish tea for the night.

Istanbul is a blend of the old and the new in many ways. Young people continue to drive change forward. New skyscrapers go up next to centuries-old mosques. New fusion flavors pop up left and right. Istanbul is constantly changing! The options are endless.

Context Matters

Istanbul is a huge, metropolitan city.

That’s right, Istanbul is a humongous (try 16 million people), metropolitan city smack dab in the middle between Europe and Asia. Before Istanbul, there was Constantinople. And Constantinople was founded way back in 330 AD. That means there’s been over 1692 years for people to build out the city we now know today as Istanbul.

Just like New York City, Berlin, and Paris, Istanbul also has its fair share of negative city elements. It’s important to remember that it’s a huge city in a foreign country. It attracts all kinds of different people, some good and some bad, just like any other major city.

Terrorism is a threat in many major cities in Europe (and the U.S.)

Terrorism is also a threat in many major cities in the Western world – it’s not just Turkey and the Middle East. Unfortunately, there were 15 terrorist attacks in the E.U. in 2021 and 77 terrorist attacks and plots in the U.S. that same year. It’s our sad reality that terrorist attacks do happen every now and then around the world and are impossible to accurately predict. To avoid them as much as possible, avoid highly touristic destinations and big crowds.

Islamophobia is at an all-time high

In a Gallup survey, among Americans who reported no personal prejudice toward Muslims, one-third (36% to be exact) said they had an unfavorable opinion about Islam . In the United Kingdom, a survey found that about 42% of surveyed mosques or Islamic bodies in the UK have come under attack in the last three years. Also, the UK Home Office statistics shows 6,377 religious hate crimes occurred between March 2020 and 2021 with almost 50% of them aimed at the Muslim community in Britain.

That’s just a sample of what’s going on in a couple of Western countries. Go all over the world and it’s the same thing unfortunately. There’s islamophobia in South Korea , Australia , India , Brazil , and even Canada .

Turkey is a Muslim country

Since 1453, Istanbul has been a Muslim city. And for thousands of years, Turkey has been a Muslim country. So understandably, the culture is deeply rooted in the religion. In general, that means 99% of food is pork-free, women are unfortunately treated more like second-class citizens, and religious holidays are taken seriously.

As a tourist, you should just be aware of the cultural differences so that you don’t do anything that could get you in trouble. Also, please be respectful of the culture as you explore around. If you’re disrespectful, don’t assume nothing would ever happen to you.

Tips For Solo Travelers in Istanbul

1. enroll in your government’s safe traveling program.

A lot of countries, including the U.S., have free safe traveling programs designed to keep their citizens safe while traveling abroad. Before traveling to Turkey (or anywhere for that matter), I’d recommend signing up to your country’s program and making sure all of the details (like your emergency contacts) are correct. For easy access, here are resources for a few countries:

United States citizens: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Canadian citizens: Registration of Canadians Abroad

United Kingdom citizens: Travel Aware

Australian citizens: Smartraveller

2. Never leave your stuff unattended

Sometimes people think their bags will be fine if they want to take a photo somewhere but don’t want to take their stuff. Please don’t do this! Especially if you’re in a touristic spot. Because you can bet that there are some pickpockets going around looking for easy targets. To not even put yourself into a situation where your stuff could be stolen, I’d recommend adopting the mentality of ‘better safe than sorry’.

Always be able to track your bags! Grab one of these handy bag trackers here on Amazon or a budget-friendly 3-pack .

3. Limit the number of valuable belongings on you

Passport. Money. IDs. Credit cards. These are all valuable belongings that you should either leave locked up in your luggage at the hotel or very safely packed away in your bag/purse. When traveling, I only carry some cash, a credit card, and my driver’s license on me at all times. I use an awesome anti-theft bag , so I always feel like my valuable belongings are safe and sound.

4. Keep your money safe

Keeping your money safe is definitely easier said than done. If you prefer to travel with a lot of cash on hand, then you should take extra care to keep it all safe. That means not carrying all of it on you all of the time and either locking what you’re not going to carry in your luggage at the hotel or using the hotel’s lock box. It’s up to you, but I’d recommend keeping it in your luggage (it’s less conspicuous than a locked lock box).

On the other side, if you’re just carrying credit or debit cards around, that means keeping your wallet and bag safe. I’d recommend just using this anti-theft bag from Amazon to make it easy and give you peace of mind. That brand tends to use RFID-blocking technology , which blocks scammers from walking around and electronically getting your credit/debit card details.

5. Keep a hard copy of your card numbers, phone numbers, & passport information

It’s easy to ignore making a hard copy of your most important details (I mean, who has the time?!), but I promise it’s so important to do! Just in case your bag got stolen, what would you do? Imagine your phone’s gone, wallet’s gone, passport’s gone. That’s why this is so essential.

Write everything down on a post-it note or small piece of paper and then tuck it away in a secure pocket while you’re out and about. You’ll feel a lot better knowing your most precious information is safely tucked away and that you’ll never worry about who to call or what to do if the worst case were to happen. Fingers crossed nothing happens to you, but better safe than sorry!

6. Keep a hard copy of your country’s consulate & the Istanbul tourist police’s address and contact information

In addition to writing down your personal and financial details, I’d also recommend having your country’s local consulate and the Istanbul tourist police’s address and phone numbers written down for easy access. This is just in case your passport gets stolen or a crime is committed against you. The consulate should be your first contact because they’ll know exactly what to do as a citizen of your country. Here are important details for a few countries:

United States:

Poligon Mahallesi, Sariyer Caddesi No: 75

İstinye 34460 Sariyer- Istanbul / Türkiye

(+90) 212 335 9000

United Kingdom:

Meşrutiyet Caddesi No 42

Tepebaşı Beyoglu 34435 Istanbul / Türkiye

(+90) 212 334 6400

Büyükdere Caddesi No: 209, Tekfen Tower, 4.

Levent 34394 Istanbul / Türkiye

(+90) 212 385 9700

Suzer Plaza

Elmadag Askerocagi Caddesi No. 15,

Sisli 34367 Istanbul / Türkiye

(+90) 212 393 3300

The Istanbul Tourist Police:

(+90) 212 527 4503

There are 2 offices: one near Taksim Square and Beyoglu, and the other one is near Hagia Sophia mosque – both heavily touristic areas.

7. Always pay attention to your surroundings

Paying attention to your surroundings might seem obvious, but a lot of people don’t do it. This is especially important if it’s nighttime and/or you’re alone. No need to run everywhere or anything, but it’s a good idea to look around and behind you every so often. Because Istanbul has many streets, alleys, and dark spots, I’d recommend staying where there’s light, other people, and cars.

As a woman, never walk around with earphones in and/or scrolling or using your phone. Bad people are known to look for people doing these things because they’re easier targets. Wear comfortable sneakers and, if you’re a solo female traveler, I’d recommend carrying a whistle just in case. Also, the word for help in Turkish is yardim – good to know!

8. Don’t join any political events, protests, or rallies

Even if your friends pressure you, try to avoid any political events, protests, rallies, demonstrations, or parades (like an LGBTQ+ parade). These can be magnets for terrorists, violence, and theft. But if you’re absolutely determined to go, I’d recommend taking as many safety precautions as possible like studying a map of the area beforehand, having your phone and valuable documents safely tucked away, and deciding beforehand what to do in case one of your friends feels unsafe and wants to leave immediately.

Tips For Female Travelers in Istanbul

1. ignore sketchy men selling things on the street.

Walking around Istanbul, you’ll see lots of shopkeepers and sellers at stalls/tables. Majority of the time, they’re harmless good people just trying to peacefully sell their goods. If you’re in a crowded area like Kadikoy or Ortakoy, the sellers there are all good and used to tourists. However, if you find yourself in a random area or on a random street with men trying to sell you stuff, then that’s a no-go just to be on the safe side. I’d recommend not engaging with these sellers, no matter how real that fake Prada bag looks!

2. Only go out at night in a group & don’t separate

There’s definitely safety in numbers, especially for female travelers. If you’re traveling solo, try to make friends at your hostel (if you’re staying in one) or use Meetup to join gatherings with locals and expats. I used Meetup in Dublin, Ireland a couple of years ago and found some really nice people through it. Also, be sure to stay with the group wherever it goes until you’re ready to split and head back to your accommodation. Even then, stick to well-lit paths and where other people are to either walk back or get a taxi. Just in case you might get separated, I’d recommend saving two people’s phone numbers (that is, two people who are a part of your group) in your phone so you can find the group again.

3. Don’t make yourself an easy target

Not to scare you, but an easy target looks like a drunk young woman walking alone at night who’s on her phone. Please please don’t make yourself easy to mug/attack. Stay off your phone as much as possible, look behind you every so often, don’t seem drunk or intoxicated, and make sure there are other people around you at all times. If you ever end up in a bad situation, try to find an open shop – shop owners would help you. Most importantly, DO NOT get into a car without checking first that it’s the correct Uber or checking that it’s a legitimate taxi (see the section ‘Transport & Taxis Risk’ above for how to tell if a taxi is legitimate or not).

4. Don’t look like a tourist or stand out

What’s a tourist look like? Stereotypically, they wear bright colors, khaki shorts/pants, and travel-ready backpacks. Whenever I visit touristic areas in Istanbul, the tourists are pretty easy to spot. To blend into the locals, I’d recommend wearing soft or neutral colors and not wearing anything more revealing than a t-shirt and mid-thigh length shorts. You’ll also blend in by walking straight ahead and not stopping to look at everything, like a local would. At touristic places, it’s perfectly fine to stop and look at everything. But in neighborhoods and suburban areas, you’ll stay safer by not standing out as a tourist.

5. Always dress appropriately

If you didn’t guess already, dressing appropriately in Istanbul is way more important for women than it is for men. For women, don’t wear anything more revealing than a t-shirt and mid-thigh length shorts. Even dressed liked that you’ll get stares from men on the street. So if you don’t want to attract male attention (you don’t), I’d recommend carrying a light sweater around just in case you have to cover up to go into a mosque or have to walk in a more religiously conservative area.

Men and young children can wear shorts and a t-shirt without any worries. Men can even wear a sleeveless t-shirt and be fine. For female children between the ages of 7 and 18, I’d recommend they stick to a minimum of thigh-length shorts and a t-shirt. Also, don’t let them go off and do their own thing! Always keep them in your sights.

6. Don’t smile at men on the street (even just to be friendly)

In Istanbul, most men are highly religiously conservative. Don’t forget, Istanbul hosts millions of people from strict religious backgrounds (like Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, etc.) so it’s not just Turkish men you need to be aware of.

Especially as a solo female traveler, absolutely DO NOT smile or stare at men on the street (even if you just want to be friendly). Us Americans, I know we have a tendency to smile at strangers and be friendly towards strangers, but this is something you should be actively aware of when walking around Istanbul. Turkish women don’t go around randomly smiling at strange men, so a smile from a woman can be considered as flirting or an invitation. You don’t want to put yourself in a situation where someone starts following you or tries to engage with you. Just in case that ever happens to you, seek safety in a nearby shop or restaurant, explain to them what’s going on, and stay there until you feel safe.

Tips For Family Travelers in Istanbul

1. never lose sight of your child(ren).

Children! You love ’em but they love to run around. If your kid likes to randomly walk away from you, then you should take extra precautionary measures before traveling to Istanbul. Things like packing them only bright colors (so they’re easier to spot from far away), this inconspicuous GPS tracker from Amazon , and maybe even creating incentives for your child to be rewarded with if they don’t wander off (like an hour of phone use or ice cream).

2. Give your child(ren) a GPS tracking bracelet

The best way to easily find your kids (if they ever went missing) is giving them this highly-rated GPS tracking bracelet before traveling. You can literally learn their exact location with this. I mean, imagine the relief knowing you can just locate them on your phone. Even if it didn’t work for some reason, I know $8 USD would be worth the extra safeguard.

PRO TIP: To make sure you can always find your child, I’d recommend purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device called VINN at a local Turkcell store because there’s no publicly available Wi-Fi in Istanbul. Keep it on whenever you and your family are out and about. As of publishing, a VINN costs about $77 USD. If your phone data still works in a foreign country, then you can just use that!

3. Avoid large crowds as much as possible

Would definitely recommend avoiding huge crowds as much as possible. It’s super easy to lose track of a small kid in a large crowd. That’s why that GPS bracelet is really useful!

If you’re visiting highly touristic spots, be sure to take extra precautions (especially if your kid tends to randomly walk away from you). There are lots of fun things for families to do in Istanbul that don’t involve crowds! Things like visiting Galata Tower, taking a boat tour of the Bosphorus ,  trying different foods, visiting malls/shopping centers, going on day tours , etc.

4. Bring lots of sanitizing wipes – these come in handy!

Especially with COVID-19, E. coli, and tuberculosis increasing around the world , it’s more important than ever to travel with an arsenal of sanitizing wipes. I promise, they’re worth it 100x over. You can wipe down your flight’s seats, sanitize your kids’ hands before snack time, sanitize door handles – you can literally clean anything that has a surface. Here are the wipes I specially recommend:

Zogics 800-Count Wipes

Purell Small Individual Packets of Wipes

Purell 20-Count Travel Pack of Wipes

A Feast For the Eyes: 7 Best Istanbul Restaurants With a View

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Home > Is Istanbul Safe To Visit Right Now? – Written By A Local

Is Istanbul Safe To Visit Right Now? – Written By A Local

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

One of the most commonly asked questions people ask me as a Turkey local would have to be, “Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?”

In this post, I will show you how safe Istanbul is and how to keep safe on the streets of Istanbul while you are in this iconic Turkish city.

You might think there should be a simple yes or no answer here, but nothing about traveling to Türkiye is ever that simple. The truth is that Istanbul, as with any large city, has its dodgy spots. Every city in the world requires you to be careful about personal safety, and Istanbul is no different.

However, asking this question in 2023 is understandable because you’ve undoubtedly heard a few stories.

Let’s lay those doubts to rest.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Past Terrorist Attacks In Istanbul

The main reason why people ask about safety in Istanbul is that the city has, in the past, been the victim of several terrorist attacks. The most recent was in November 2022, when an explosion occurred on a busy Sunday afternoon on Istiklal Street, Taksim. This is one of the most active parts of the city.

Before that, the city suffered in 2015 when a suicide bomber detonated a bomb close to Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia in Sultanahmet . Again, this is a bustling and touristic part of Istanbul. Further suicide bombings occurred in 2016, and in 2017, a mass shooting happened at a busy nightclub.

Of course, from reading that, you undoubtedly decide that Istanbul is dangerous, but you have to put this into context. During these years, many cities worldwide were dealing with terrorism due to the rise of ISIS and its deadly campaign of terror. Unfortunately, Türkiye suffered very badly during this time too.

Since 2017, Turkey’s safety record has increased a significant amount. The last attack in November 2022 came to us locals as a huge surprise simply because we assumed that after a period of calm, such tragedies were a thing of the past. Unfortunately, terrorism is a global problem, and it’s not only Istanbul that has had to deal with it.

The point here is that, yes, Istanbul has suffered very severely in the past at the hands of terrorist groups. Still, visitors should not be overly concerned about visiting as long as they learn a little about the city before they arrive.

If there is a terrorist threat while you are in Istanbul, always follow the local authorities’ directives and contact your embassy just as you would while you are in any foreign country.

As I write this, I am in Istanbul, and I do not feel unsafe in the slightest.

Evening & Solo Female Travel Safety In Istanbul

Rather than worrying about personal safety in Istanbul, you’d probably be better off worrying about being ripped off more than anything else. There are several well-documented scams that many tourists fall foul of. To help you out, we’ll talk about those in a moment.

For now, let’s talk about whether Istanbul is a safe place during the evening hours and for solo female travel .

Istanbul is a large and bustling city, so there are some dangers during the evening hours. This is the same for every large and busy city worldwide. Walking alone at night is not advisable, and you’d be better off taking a taxi wherever you want. It goes without saying that you shouldn’t flash your valuables during the day or not.

Is Istanbul Safe For Women?

As for solo female travelers, you will see many females traveling on their own, and for the most part, they experience a very pleasant and enjoyable time. The key here is to stay within busy tourist areas. In that case, the worst you’ll ever experience is a rather over-eager waiter who wants to talk to you. A simple “no, thank you” will suffice.

Read our solo travelers’ guide to Turkey here

Obviously, make sure that you dress sensibly. While you can wear whatever you want in Istanbul (unless you’re visiting a religious site), walking around with short skirts or low-cut tops doesn’t pay. Aside from anything else, it’s cold in the winter! Cover up a little, and you won’t attract unwanted attention.

Read what to wear in Türkiye here. 

Is istanbul safe with kids.

Istanbul is a beautiful city for families with kids . The city has much to offer regarding history, culture, and fun activities for the whole family. However, as with any large city, there are also some safety concerns that parents should be aware of.

Here are a few tips to help keep your family safe while enjoying all that Istanbul has to offer:

• First and foremost, always be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your kids at all times, especially when they are near busy streets or crowded areas. If possible, stick to well-lit and populated areas when out and about after dark
• Secondly, be sure to educate your children about stranger danger. Teach them not to talk to strangers or accept gifts from them. If they do get lost, they should know to go to a police officer or security guard for help
• Lastly, it’s always a good idea to have a plan in case of an emergency. Know where the nearest hospitals and police stations are located, and make sure everyone in the family knows how to reach you if they get separated. By following these simple safety tips, you can rest assured that your family will have no safety issues and will have an enjoyable trip to Istanbul
• Public breastfeeding is not permitted in Istanbul, especially in conservative neighborhoods. If you need to breastfeed, you must do so discreetly

Editors note: I was in Istanbul with my two sons (aged 5 & 10) in 2023, and I can say we never once felt unsafe. I made sure to hold the boys’ hands and reminded them each day not to run ahead or move away from me – just because the city was so packed! But I do that in every big city we visit as a precaution. 

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Is there much violent crime in istanbul.

With a population of 16 million – or 2o plus million, if you ask the locals, there is undoubtedly some crime in Istanbul.

Crime Against Tourists

The highest form of crime against tourists in Istanbul (and Turkey) is petty crime, such as pickpocketing, particularly in tourist attractions like Taksim Square , Sultanahmet, The Grand Bazaar, and Spice Bazaar. Taking precautions beforehand can mitigate your risk of being pickpocketed in busy areas or tourist destinations.

If you want to be extra safe, wear a money belt under your shirt rather than putting your belongings in your pockets.

Some victims have reported their bags being snatched or slashed, so keeping your travel documents secured in a safe in your hotel room is better.

Other than that, crime rates are not anything to worry about in Istanbul.

Istanbul’s Safest Neighborhoods And Not-So-Safe Areas

Let’s repeat the same line here – Istanbul is like any other city, which means it has very safe areas and dangerous areas that you should probably avoid.

You’re generally very safe in any touristic area, so we’re talking about Sultanahmet , Fatih, Kadikoy, Besiktas, Ortakoy, etc. You still need to use your common sense and not walk alone at night, but overall, you’re very safe in areas like this.

The question arises when we talk about Taksim and Beyoglu . Now, Taksim isn’t unsafe per se, but it’s a very large and busy area with many winding back streets, and this is also where the city’s main nightlife is located. This part of the city literally doesn’t sleep. You’ll find trouble if you deliberately open yourself up to it.

Beyoglu is the area around Taksim, which also includes Istiklal Street. You only have to visit there during the daytime to understand that it may be a little dangerous during the evening hours if you don’t speak the language and don’t know where you’re going.

So, while you shouldn’t necessarily avoid these areas, use common sense and caution, especially during evening hours.

That being said, there are a few neighborhoods to avoid in Istanbul:

This neighborhood is within walking distance of Taksim Square and Istikal Street. Extreme poverty and violence related to that poverty color daily life here, and taxi drivers won’t even venture this way if they can avoid it.

Another run-down neighborhood near Taksim Square and Istikal Street, technically in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, is Tarlabaşı. If you aren’t aware, it is easy to walk into this area accidentally. Don’t detour too far to the east or northeast of Istikal to avoid this area, known for its sex workers and aggressive vibe.

Sultanbeyli

This neighborhood is on the outskirts of the Asian side of Istanbul , so it’s unlikely you would venture this far. It is calm during the daytime; yes, there isn’t anything to do here. At night, things get more unruly.

It’s another location not high on tourists’ radar, but just in case it comes up in your searches, it’s another place to avoid. It can be quiet during the day but is a top spot for street fights and drug deals.

Gaziosmanpaşa

Located near the historic center, this disadvantaged city area was built with poor infrastructure. It is an area where weapons are more common, and the population is dense, so avoid it.

This is a working-class neighborhood in the Beyoğlu district, and not so much dangerous as it is poor. Many buildings are falling apart, and streets are dirty. A large population of the city’s scammers live in the neighborhood, so it’s more prone to petty theft.

This neighborhood is in the Sisli district. The Sisli district is an incredible part of town. Still, the Kustepe neighborhood, just a tiny portion of the district that you can walk around, has a history of crime: drugs, beggars, and other sketchy behaviors you want to avoid on your travels.

Laleli-Aksaray

These neighborhoods are in the Fatih district. While not dangerous, they also aren’t super comfortable places for travelers, especially women. Laleli is known for prostitutes, and Aksaray is where the most conservative live, so if you wander into these areas, dress as modestly as possible.

Is It Safe To Walk Around Istanbul At Night

Yes, the city of Istanbul is a very safe city. However, as with most major cities worldwide, it can be a little more troublesome during dark hours. Istanbul is precisely the same, but that also means you need to use your common sense as you would anywhere else.

There are certain parts of Istanbul where it’s just not a good idea to walk around after dark, but if you stick to the main areas, such as Sultanahmet, Besiktas, and Kadikoy, to give a few examples, you’ll be fine. Just don’t wander into quiet residential areas, as these will likely cause you a few more problems when it’s quiet and dark.

However, Taksim and Beyoglu are two places (strictly speaking, they run into one another, so it’s just one area) where you should be careful at night.

This is where most of the nightlife is located, so there could be fights, people getting drunk and causing problems, etc, which is the same in any active nightlife hotspot. It’s best to stick to the main roads and avoid alleyways in these areas.

Take a taxi back to your hotel if you need to walk any distance, and you should be more than fine.

Is It Safe To Use Public Transport While In Istanbul

I would totally recommend you make use of Istanbul’s fantastic public transport network and it’s very safe and easy to use. The only thing to be careful of is if you’re carrying a bag with you, especially if it’s a backpack.

Public transport, such as Metros and buses, can get extremely busy, to the point where you’re sharing personal space with people you’ve never met before. Trust me, it can get CROWDED. Of course, this is prime time for pickpockets and petty thieves.

Keep a hold of your bag in front of you, and make sure you don’t carry valuables around with you. You’ll notice that a lot of locals have their backpacks on their fronts, so follow their lead and do the same.

I wouldn’t use the Metro late in the evening, but that’s just my opinion. I would much prefer to get a taxi in that situation, especially if I was alone or just with another person. That’s only because Metro stations can be quiet during the late evening hours.

Istanbul’s Well-Known Scams

There are some well-known scams that most tourists fall foul of at least once during their first stay. After your first visit, you’ll know what to look for and be savvier!

Taxi Issues

The most common is when you choose to use a taxi. Now, this is less of a problem these days because there are more rules that taxi drivers have to adhere to, but it doesn’t completely rule out the chances of this happening.

The good news is that public transport is effortless and very cheap, so that you can avoid this to a certain degree. A taxi driver may decide to take you on the scenic route to your destination, which costs you a lot more because the fare is determined by the meter and, therefore, by kilometer. Efforts, that plus, not every taxi driver will try to do this to you – it’s just the minority that may.

Shine Those Shoes

You’ll usually see someone drop a brush before you and walk away as though they’ve accidentally dropped it. This is usually a little older man. You’ll probably pick it up and call him back, thinking you’re doing a good deed. What you’ve done is fall for a scam.

The person will then offer to thank you for picking up their brush by giving your shoes a shine. They will refuse to take no for an answer, but you don’t know that they’re not doing this for free, and you’ll end up paying for their services.

“It’s Turkish Hospitality”

Now, I can vouch for the fact that most Turks are very hospitable and will treat you with great respect. But, in Istanbul, you’ll find this scam that takes that to another level and misuses it.

You’ll meet someone, and they will want to speak to you, usually because they want you to help them with their English. They’ll tell you that chatting like this is all part of Turkish hospitality.

You’ll have a friendly little chat, and everything will be great. But you don’t realize that you’re paying for the drinks they’re consuming. And often, the bar or restaurant is in on it, and you’re not getting away with not paying, no matter how much you complain.

It’s really best to say that you’re busy and walk away.

Wrong Change

Always check your change when you pay in cash, and try not to give large notes if possible. One common scam is that they will provide you with the change for a smaller note and then refuse your explanation that you gave them a larger note.

Pay with the right money if you can, or use your debit/credit card, which is widely available.

Lira Or Euro

In shopping malls, prices are set in Turkish lira , but some scrupulous traders will take your credit cards and process the sale in euros. Needless to say, the difference is drastic. You can avoid the charade by always paying in cash, which Turkish people like anyway.

Another way tourists are swindled is through the restaurant scam . Let’s say you go to a restaurant, review the menu, and order food. Your waiter comes over with a dish you haven’t ordered but insists you try. You might think it’s free, but it’s not. If you read reviews online and ask what’s included in the dish before ordering, you can avoid being scammed by restaurants.

Read all about scams in Turkey here. 

Storms & earthquakes in turkey.

Natural disasters are impossible to prevent, but keeping up with storm and snow weather forecasts and the news may help you stay safe.

In Istanbul and throughout Türkiye, earthquakes and tremors are common. Although they cannot be avoided, you can mitigate your own risk by following safety protocols during an earthquake.

If you’re caught in an Earthquake, flood, or snowstorm in Turkey, listen to the local authorities and follow their safety instructions.

Istanbul Safety Tips To Know

Using your common sense will ensure your safety in Istanbul. To help you out, here are a few pointers.

Learn A Few Words Of The Local Language

You’re far less likely to be scammed if you speak Turkish, even just a little. Plus, it’s nice to talk to locals in their mother language.

Avoid Backpacks

This is especially the case on public transport when there are usually many people in a small space. Keep your bag very close to you, and if you use a backpack, have it on your front instead.

Find anti-theft bags here. 

Don’t show off your valuables.

It goes without saying, surely? Just leave them at home or in the hotel safe.

Get A Local SIM Card

Turkcell and Vodafone offer tourist sim cards with packets that give you internet , call, and text allowances. This will help you to get around more efficiently, and you’ll always have the ability to call someone if you need to

Don’t Go For The Cheapest Accommodation

If you search for accommodation in Istanbul, you’ll undoubtedly find a considerable amount, which is very reasonable. However, the cheapest options are usually not in the greatest of spots. Do your research and make sure you’re staying in a safe area.

Find the best accommodation in Istanbul here. 

Use the istanbul kart.

This is a pre-paid card you can use on public transport. You buy the card from a Metro station or the airport , or alternatively, a small kiosk on the street with the sign. Then top up your card and use it on buses, trams, Metro, and ferries.

Read all about transport in Istanbul here. 

Watch your drinks.

It’s always best to drink bottled beer and always keep your drink with you. Remember, drink measures vary from country to country, and you don’t want to find yourself drunk and unable to find your way back to your hotel.

As you can see, Turkey is a safe country, and you will have a safe trip to one of my favorite cities in Türkiye.

Is tap water safe to drink in Türkiye?

Turkish authorities claim tap water is safe to drink , but most tourists and locals prefer bottled water. It’s always best to buy bottled water when visiting another country , regardless of whether authorities claim tap water is safe.

Is English widely spoken in Turkey?

Turkish is the official language of Türkiye; that said, English is widely spoken , especially in Istanbul. But learning a few Turkish words or phrases for your vacation to Turkey is still a good idea . It is also highly appreciated by the locals.

Is Istanbul a safe city for tourists?

Yes, Istanbul is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, taking usual precautions is always best, such as being aware of your surroundings and belongings.

Are there any specific areas to avoid in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a large city, and while most areas are safe, it’s recommended to avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.

Is it safe to use public transportation in Istanbul?

Yes, public transportation in Istanbul is generally safe. However, being cautious in crowded places is advisable, especially during rush hours.

What should I do if I encounter any issues or emergencies in Istanbul?

If you encounter any issues or emergencies, seek assistance from the local authorities or your embassy/consulate. Istanbul has tourist police specifically trained to assist travelers.

Are there any specific safety tips for solo travelers in Istanbul?

While Istanbul is relatively safe for solo travelers, it’s essential to remain vigilant and avoid walking alone in remote areas, particularly at night.

What is the current security situation in Istanbul?

As security situations can change, checking with your government’s travel advisory for the latest updates and safety information before traveling to Istanbul is recommended.

Is it safe to visit popular tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Yes, popular tourist attractions in Istanbul are generally safe. However, be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded places and tourist hotspots.

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Is Istanbul Safe To Travel? Must-Have Tips For Tourists

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

“Is Istanbul safe to travel?” has to be one of the most popular questions we get asked, and it is not surprising why. Just a little more than 5 years ago, the country (especially Istanbul) was a victim of terrorist attacks that destroyed many people’s faith in Turkey’s safety.

But nowadays, Istanbul is generally a very safe city to visit. Yes, of course, there are still dangerous parts of the city, but travelers won’t have to worry about them as long as they stay on the tourist path. The biggest concerns when visiting Istanbul nowadays are petty crimes such as pickpockets, and the rampant scams throughout the city.

That is what we are here for! After falling for numerous scams ourselves, and wandering off the beaten path into sketchy neighborhoods, we are here to tell you all the safety tips in Istanbul so you can have the perfect trip!

Planning a trip to Istanbul last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:

• Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken International Airport (SAW) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:

• Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must-do In Istanbul)
• Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique experience!)
• Historical Turkish Bath Experience
• Istanbul Food And Culture Tour

Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:

• Magnuara Palace Hotel (Gorgeous hotel in the historic centre!)
• Pera Palace Hotel
• Cheers Hostel (Budget hostel near the Blue Mosque!)

History Of Safety In Istanbul

If Istanbul is safe, why do so many people have the perception that Istanbul and Turkey are dangerous? It all started in 2015.

Beginning in 2015, there was a series of terrorist attacks in Istanbul that really shook up the city. The first one happened in 2015, when a suicide bomber blew himself up in Sultanahmet Square, right next to two of the most historical sites in Turkey – Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

In 2016, the terrorist attacks got much worse , and the city had 5 bombings and shootings in the entire year. The last terrorist attack was in 2017, which was a mass shooting in a nightclub in Istanbul.

More recently, a terrorist attack took place in Istanbul in November 2022 , when a bomb was detonated on the famous Istiklal Avenue, which killed six people.

These terrorist attacks, combined with the Syrian refugee crisis and the political instability in Turkey made Istanbul a very dangerous city to visit in the past.

But since then, the safety situation in Istanbul has gotten significantly better. Millions of tourists visit Istanbul annually, and nearly all of them have a safe and pleasant trip.

However, it is worth noting that Turkey is in an economic crisis, which means that some of the locals are poorer than ever. This has had an impact on the number of scams and petty thefts in the city, but nothing that would jeopardize your safety.

Is Istanbul Safe For Tourists?

If you are traveling to Istanbul, then it is worth knowing that Istanbul is very safe for tourists. But that requires you to stay in one of the tourist neighborhoods, visit popular tourist attractions, and don’t wander too far off the beaten path.

As we mentioned, there are dangerous parts of the city, but those areas offer nothing in terms of tourist attractions, so there is little reason to be there. Typically speaking, travelers won’t just randomly get themselves into a risky situation.

It is worth noting that there are some pretty bad scams targeted at tourists. Because of the economic meltdown in the country, the locals are relying more and more on tourists for income. Some of these scams are small, but some can set you back a few hundred dollars! We’ll talk more about those below!

Is Istanbul Safe At Night?

Any city in the world is more dangerous at night than in the daytime, and Istanbul is no exception. Luckily, Istanbul is still quite safe at night, but you should take extra precautions.

Walking around at night in one of the tourist neighborhoods in Istanbul such as Sultanahmet or Kadikoy is quite safe. The places that you should be careful of are the nightlife district in Istanbul, especially near Taksim.

Petty theft and pickpocketing usually happen in crowded nightclubs and bars, and Taksim is one of the most popular areas for nightlife in Istanbul , especially for travelers.

Another risk is getting approached by people who want to show you this place they were recommended. Usually, they’ll say they want to have a drink with you, and then take you to a place that is going to be in on the scam. It ends with you paying for all the food and drinks of the party, and it won’t be cheap.

Is Istanbul Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Solo female travelers are not in any particular danger when traveling in Istanbul, but there are some risks they should be aware of.

If you are a solo female traveler, you are very likely to get more attention as you explore the city. Men’ll come up to you for a chat, call you beautiful on the street, and try to befriend you. Turkish people are known for their hospitality, and some will be genuinely nice, but there are lots of them that are just after your money.

If someone is extra nice to you and wants to take you somewhere (their cousin’s carpet shop, this nice restaurant, etc) other than where you want to go, then it is usually a scam.

If you are a solo woman traveling in Istanbul, you should be extra cautious about going out at night. We’ve not heard of anyone getting drugged or robbed at night, but we have heard of Turkish men being very aggressive, persistent, and not taking no as an answer.

If possible, we recommend solo female travelers make some friends on their travel either through a Facebook Group or by staying in one of the social hostels in Istanbul. If all else fails, check out one of the pub crawls in the city if you want a fun and safe night out!

Safe Areas In Istanbul And Where You Should Stay

Staying in a safe area in Istanbul can highly increase your chance of not encountering any dangerous situations. There are many areas to stay in Istanbul, but when it comes to safety and a tourist’s point of view, there is nowhere better than Sultanahmet, the historic center of Istanbul.

This area is home to the best things to do in Istanbul – from the Grand Bazaar to the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Since this neighborhood is quite sacred, there is no nightlife here, which means there are no drunks or people under the influence.

Here are our favorite places to stay in Sultanahmet:

• Best Hostel In Sultanahmet – Cheers Hostel
• Best Hotel In Sultanahmet – The Magnaura Palace Hotel

Are Taxis Safe In Istanbul?

Taxis are safe in Istanbul, but I’ve not encountered a taxi driver that did not try to scam us. The situation has gotten so bad that we have started to take only Uber in Istanbul , which is always cheaper because the price is fixed beforehand.

Taxi drivers are not known to rob tourists, but they’ll most certainly try to scam them. One of the most common taxi scams in Istanbul is by taking a detour. Taxis in Istanbul are metered, and drivers like to take a longer route than needed.

Sometimes, they’ll even drive in the opposite direction. Some drivers will even negotiate a fixed fee before you get in the car, which is a quick indicator they are trying to scam you.

The worst part of this detour scam is that most of the time it is unavoidable. When you realize you’ve gone the wrong way or taken a detour, it is already too late. If you confront the driver, they’ll often say they took the detour because there is road construction or traffic, so the detour is actually the best way.

It is almost always better to get an Uber in Istanbul, or an Uber Alternative like BiTaksi.

Is Public Transportation Safe In Istanbul?

The public transportation in Istanbul is incredible. With many modes to choose from, public transport is a traveler’s best friend in Istanbul, especially if your budget is low. It can get you to the majority of the sights and even to Adalar, one of the best day trips in Istanbul.

The best part is that public transportation is fairly safe in Istanbul. However, travelers should be aware of pickpockets and thieves, especially if you have a backpack. You should always try to wear your backpack in front of you, and you’ll see that’s what the locals do as well.

Public transportation in Istanbul can get so crowded that you cannot even move. And that is one of the easiest times for thieves to take something out of your pocket or unzip your backpack and take something from inside. Be extra aware of your surroundings on public transportation, especially when it’s busy.

Common Scams In Istanbul

Perhaps the biggest safety concern in Istanbul is the number of scams. We’ve fallen for a few on our visit to Istanbul, encountered plenty of scammers coming up to us, and met tons of people who have gotten scammed.

One of the reasons why so many tourists get scammed is that Turkish people are very friendly and they are not shy to approach you. And when they offer something, they’ll say it is Turkish hospitality and that it is part of their culture.

So naturally, tourists will take up on their offer because they don’t want to offend anyone. Yes, many people in Turkey are very hospitable, but there is a bad bunch that ruins it for everyone.

Here is a list of common scams in Istanbul: (Yes, there’s a list…)

• Taxi Detour Scam – We mentioned this above. This is the taking a detour scam that usually ends up with tourists paying at least 20% more than they should. Take an Uber to avoid this.
• The Dropped Brush, Shoe Shine Scam – A random person will drop his brush in front of you. When you reach down and pick it up for him, he’ll thank you and offer you a “free” shoe shine. He’ll insist until you say yes. Then he’ll charge you for it after he is done.
• “Free” Things – To elaborate a bit on the point above, anytime that someone says something is free in Istanbul, it usually isn’t. And once you accept your “free” thing, you’ll be asked to pay. This is more common in touristy neighborhoods in Istanbul, such as Sultanahmet and Taksim.
• Menu With a Different Price – This scam is most popular in restaurants. The price of your food from the menu you ordered from is not the same when you ask for your bill. Sometimes a server will even tell you there’s no menu or that the prices on the menu are not updated due to inflation. This usually doesn’t happen in renowned places, but just to be safe, take a photo of the menu before ordering your food.
• “Let’s just have a drink” scam – This is a very popular nightlife scam in Istanbul. We briefly talked about this above. Usually, someone will approach you in a very friendly manner. After exchanging a few lines and getting to know each other, the locals will invite you to have a drink with them. He’ll take you somewhere he recommends, then orders lots of food and drinks (and sometimes women). Then he’ll make you pay the bill in cash, and the entire establishment is in on this. If you don’t have enough money, they’ll escort you to an ATM and make you take out cash
• Swapping Bank Notes Scam – When you try to pay for something, the person swaps out your banknote so it looks like you gave them a smaller bill than what you actually gave them. Alternatively, they swap out for a fake one and tell you that they can’t take that one for whatever reason.

Crime And Terrorism in Istanbul

Crime and terrorism in Istanbul used to be a real concern, but now the situation is much better. Most of the issues nowadays happen near the Syrian border and Ankara, the capital of Turkey. There have not been any terrorist acts in Istanbul since 2017, and from the way the politics are going, it looks like they’ll be unlikely to occur in Istanbul.

Violent crimes against tourists are also extremely rare. In fact, we have not heard of any travelers becoming victims of serious crime in Istanbul.

Dangerous Areas In Istanbul

Though Istanbul is safe, there are dangerous areas. Most of these areas are situated very far from the tourist places in Istanbul, so travelers don’t have much to worry about.

There are a few that tourists might stumble on. Though these are not the riskiest, your chances of becoming victims of crime are higher here, which is why we have decided to mention them.

Here are the neighborhoods that you should avoid:

• Tarlabasi – A very poor neighborhood with lots of minorities. This area is a few blocks away from the famous Istiklal street . Tourists don’t usually come here (or even stumble here), but it is worth including just in case.
• Dolapdere – Another poor neighborhood in Istanbul. This one is northeast of Tarlabasi and north of Taksim Square. Not super dangerous, but don’t visit here unless you know what you are doing.

It might appear that the areas near Istiklal Street and Taksim Square are a bit sketchy, and that wouldn’t be exactly incorrect. It is safe enough for tourists nowadays, but increased caution should be exercised near Istiklal and Taksim.

Safety Tips For Istanbul

• Pick Up A Few Turkish Phrases – Knowing a few Turkish phrases or words can help you get out of sticky situations. Plus, it is a nice way to acquaint yourself with the locals, which might make it less likely for them to want to scam you.
• Watch your Belongings – There are over 15 million people in Istanbul. Though Istanbul spans both Asia and Europe, that is still a ton of people. The city is very crowded, which makes it easy for pickpockets and thieves. Keep an extra eye on your belongings.
• Get a Sim Card – We highly recommend getting a sim card in Istanbul . That’ll help you navigate the city and make you look confident, which makes it less likely for people to approach you. You are also going to need a Turkish number for using some of the local apps such as BiTaksi.
• Stay In Sultanahmet – As much as we like to go off the beaten path, staying in the historic center of Istanbul not only puts you within walking distance of the city’s best attraction, but it is also one of the safest places in Istanbul. Your visit will be much safer if you stay in Sultanahmet.
• Purchase Travel Insurance – If you want peace of mind, we recommend getting travel insurance. For a small cost, you can be completely insured for anything that could happen on your trip!   ✔️  Check out our recommended travel insurance here!

Safety In Istanbul FAQs

Is istanbul airport safe.

Istanbul Airport was one of the places that terrorists attacked in 2016. But nowadays, Istanbul Airport is very safe. In fact, they built a new airport and it is one of the most modern and incredible airports in the world!

Is Istanbul Safe to Walk Around?

Istanbul is very safe to walk around, as long as you are in the tourist areas. There are dangerous areas in Istanbul that tourists might be more at risk when walking around, but typical tourists won’t end up in one of those neighborhoods.

Is Tap Water Safe To Drink In Istanbul?

Tap water is treated in Istanbul, so it is actually safe to drink. Though you might find that locals don’t drink tap water in Istanbul , and that is because the taste isn’t exactly the best. If you are a tourist, we recommend drinking bottled water instead.

Is Istanbul Safe to Live?

For the most part, Istanbul is safe to live. This culturally rich city has plenty to offer, and more and more expats are calling this city their home. As long as the political situation stays the same, Istanbul is safe to live.

Is Istanbul safe for LGBTQ+?

Though Istanbul is one of the more liberal Muslim countries, public affection, especially between LGBTQ+ members, is looked down upon. Same-sex relationships aren’t illegal in Turkey, but some of the older generations might show discontent about them. But generally speaking, LGBTQ+ members are not at any major risk.

Is it safe to drive in Istanbul?

Local drivers in Istanbul are known to be aggressive, and there are plenty of unusual hazards that drivers might need to be aware of, such as animal crossing, kids playing on the street, and more. Istanbul is also known for its horrible traffic. So, driving in Istanbul might not be the safest, and since public transportation is so great, there is little reason to drive in Istanbul.

So, Is Istanbul Safe?

Generally speaking, Istanbul is very safe, especially for tourists. But there are some things travelers should be aware of, and that is the number of scams in the city and the possibility of ending up in a sketchy neighborhood. But as long as you use common sense and follow our safety tips, your trip to Istanbul should be enjoyable and safe!

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

12 thoughts on “Is Istanbul Safe To Travel? Must-Have Tips For Tourists”

Very useful information. Is there a British or Canadian consulate in Istanbul?

Yes there is! The British consulate is in the center of Istanbul but the Canadian consulate is a bit out of the center in the Levent district.

My next trip to Istanbul is in the next month, mid december! Is it safe to visit at this time?

Hey Pam, it is hard to predict what will happen in a situation like this. Obviously, with what has occurred, the chances of another attack are higher than usual. Whether you decide to continue with your trip, or reschedule it for a different time is up to you. We recommend you to stay up-to-date with the latest news regarding the issue so you can make the most informed decision.

Hi, wow such useful information. We are have a nine hour lay over in Istanbul in January and were thinking of catching a dinner at the Grace Rooftop Restaurant or one of the other beautiful rooftop restaurants in that area. Is that area particularly safe in the evening. Was also thinking of taking a romantic walk along Kennedy Cd. next to the bay in the evening. Is this area safe to walk at night. Any thought would be much appreciated. Thank you kindly.

Hi Bogdan, that sounds like a wonderful way to spend a layover! The Grace Rooftop Bar is in the Sultanahmet District which is a historic part of the city and very touristy. We stayed in this area the last time we visited and felt it was safe at night. You should be ok walking along the path by Kennedy Cd but be mindful of the traffic on that road as it can be busy.

Thank you very much for the info, I’m looking forward to it

This is really helpful as I am planning for two weeks holiday in Istanbul with my husband and my 4 years old! Been travelling to the Middle East most of the time but never read as much as I did when planning to visit Turkey!

We are having a family reunion meeting up in Istanbul late October 2023.. Is there a prettier area in Sultanahmet, that isnt as touristy? Can you recommend any cruises down to the coastal areas?

All of Sultanahmet is rather touristy. If you want to avoid the touristy parts of Istanbul, you could consider staying on the Asian side of Istanbul. For the cruises, are you referring to the Bosphorus Cruise? If yes, you can see our recommendation near the top of the article! 🙂

Is it safe to travel to Istanbul now? Is Atasehir a safe place to stay?

As of right now, government officials are saying that it is quite safe to travel to Istanbul. Terrorist threats are fairly low, but there is still a small risk in our opinion. We’ll let you decide whether you think it is worth it or not. Atasehir is a safe and residential area. It is a little bit far from the tourist attractions of Istanbul though.

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Is Istanbul safe? Staying safe as a tourist in Turkey’s largest city

Matthew Hillier

Last updated 6 February 2024

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Istanbul is a city that has been attracting tourists from all over the world for centuries.

Over the years there have been many movies made and stories written that have portrayed Istanbul as a dangerous city or at least one which has some element of risk.

Not only that, the city has experienced real unrest and attacks in the past.

So we can't blame you for asking if Istanbul is safe to visit?

Key takeaways

Istanbul is a relatively safe city for tourists. This is reflected in the numbers with over 6 million foreign tourists visiting the city in the first half of 2023.

Like any big city in the world, Istanbul has its fair share of crime and safety concerns. However, the Turkish government has taken steps to improve security measures, especially in tourist areas. Police presence and security is felt in places where people gather such such as main historical sites , train and metro stations and shopping malls.

Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists and locals alike. However, as with any major city, you should always be careful traveling around and be aware of your surroundings.

Pick-pocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas, such as tourist attractions and public transportation. It is recommended to keep your valuables secure and out of sight, and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Traffic in Istanbul can be chaotic and dangerous, with many drivers ignoring traffic laws. As a pedestrian always be cautious. Even if there is a crosswalk do not assume cars will stop for you.

There is a low risk of terrorism in Istanbul, but visitors should remain aware and follow the advice of local authorities. You should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.

Personal note

From personal experience Istanbul has always felt like a safe place for us to live as a family. We have not had any situation out of the ordinary where we were overly concerned.

Saying that, we know no one is immune from danger. We always remain aware of our surroundings, especially in areas where there are crowds.

Is public transportation safe?

Public transportation in istanbul.

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, metros, and ferries. The public transportation system is generally safe and reliable, with regular schedules and affordable fares. However, it can be crowded during peak hours, and pick-pocketing is a common issue.

Taxi services in Istanbul

Taxis are readily available in Istanbul, but before using one you should make sure that the taxi is licensed and has a working meter. Some unlicensed taxis may overcharge tourists, so it is always best to use licensed taxis. You should be cautious when using taxi services at night and avoid getting into taxis that already have passengers.

One easy way to get a Taxi in Istanbul is to use the Uber app .

Helpful tip

We will always wear a seatbelt if the taxi has them. Sometimes you don't have a choice as they are not there.

Taxi drivers in Istanbul are known for their crazy and often fast driving. We trust they are experienced at what they do!

If you don't like the sound of that, public transportation such as the metro can be a more relaxing option.

An alternative to public transportation for those more confident drivers is renting a car . Just be aware the traffic can be crazy and finding a parking space can be a challenge in Istanbul.

Pedestrian safety in Istanbul

Pedestrian safety is a concern in Istanbul, especially in busy areas such as Taksim Square and Istiklal Street. Drivers in Istanbul may not always follow traffic rules, so you should exercise be extra carful when crossing the street.

Walk cautiously. Some sidewalks in the older city areas can be quite narrow - if they are event there at all!

Be aware of traffic on the road while navigating streets, as you tend to walk on the road and off again. It can make pushing a stroller (pram) a difficult task!

Health and hygiene

Istanbul has generally a good standard of health and hygiene. The city has many hospitals and clinics that provide high-quality medical care. People from all over the world come to Istanbul to receive treatment at their specialty clinics.

Water quality is generally good in Istanbul, but it is still recommended that visitors drink bottled water. It's extremely cheap to buy.

Be cautious when eating street food, especially if it looks like it's been sitting out for a while. You should be aware of the potential for food poisoning and if you want to go the extra mile check the reviews on Google or TripAdvisor and eat only at highly rated restaurants.

Istanbul has a number of public restrooms, but not all of them are well-maintained. Carrying some hand sanitiser with you is a good idea.

In terms of personal hygiene, you should be aware that the city can be quite dusty and polluted. If you have respiratory issues bring appropriate medication and take precautions to avoid exposure to pollution.

One thing to be aware of is that locals will always take off their shoes before entering a home. It's common at some tourist sites to see them hand out disposable shoe covers to prevent dirt getting inside.

Political stability and safety

Istanbul has experienced some political unrest over its history, which has led to concerns about the safety of tourists and locals.

Turkey has had a stable government for many years. However, there have been political issues that have led to protests and disagreements. It is reassuring knowing that at the recent election, the time when you'd most likely expect unrest, there was very little disruption. The election process seemed to go smoothly.

As we mentioned earlier there is a strong police presence in the city to protect tourists and locals. At times throughout the year there are certain days where cause for protest is more likely but it is reassuring that on those days more police are placed on duty in key locations around the city.

Is Istanbul safe for solo female travelers?

When it comes to safety for women travelers in Istanbul, you do need to be cautious, as with any other major city. Istanbul is generally a safe city for women to travel in, but there are a few things that women can do to ensure their safety while exploring the city.

It is a good idea to avoid walking alone at night, especially in quieter areas of the city.

Women should dress modestly when visiting more conservative areas of the city, and especially at religious sites. This means avoiding revealing clothing and covering shoulders and knees.

Women should be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their belongings, especially in crowded areas such as, popular tourist sites , markets and public transportation.

For women traveling alone, it may be a good idea to stay in a hotel or hostel that has good security measures in place. Many hotels in Istanbul have 24-hour security and require guests to show identification before entering the building.

Safety tips for tourists

In summary it is important to be aware of the potential safety risks and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety tips:

• Be mindful of your surroundings : Tourists should always be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas, especially at night. It is also important to be cautious of pickpockets and scams targeting tourists.
• Respect local customs and laws : Istanbul is a conservative city, and tourists should dress modestly and respect local customs and laws.
• Use licensed taxis : Tourists should use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked or unofficial taxis.
• Avoid political demonstrations : Istanbul has seen political demonstrations in the past, and tourists should avoid these events.
• Be prepared for emergencies : Tourists should always carry a copy of their passport and keep it in a safe place. It is also recommended to have a local emergency contact and a plan in case of an emergency.

Istanbul is a relatively safe city. While there have been incidents of terrorism and political unrest in the past, the Turkish government has taken steps to improve security measures.

Like any big city, Istanbul has its share of petty crime such as pick-pocketing and theft. Crowded areas are more susceptible to that type of crime, so you should always take common sense precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night.

I’m a writer and graphic designer currently living in Turkey with my family. I enjoy learning language, great food (chicken kebab is a favourite at the moment) and experiencing places less-traveled.

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Is Istanbul Safe? 13 Tips to Stay Safe in Istanbul

Whenever I travel to Turkey, my family and friends back home raise their eyebrows. “Okay, but is Istanbul safe?” they always ask me. And yes, for the most part, Istanbul is a safe city for travelers. 

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t things you need to know to make sure you stay safe in Istanbul so you can enjoy your trip. Here’s what you need to know about crime in Istanbul and important Istanbul safety tips to help you while you’re in the city.

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Is Istanbul Safe? 5 Things to Know about Safety & Crime in Istanbul

Here are five facts about the current state of crime in Istanbul that you should be aware of. I address how to protect yourself in the next section. So while these things exist, there are things you can do. Being aware of them is the first step.

Travel Advisories

Most of the terrorism threats in Turkey are at the border with Syria – far, far away from Istanbul

Turkey is a large country. Whenever the US State Department or other nation’s government issues a travel advisory for the country, check which part of the country the advisory is referring to. For example, currently, the US is advising people not to travel to Turkey due to terrorism threats that are located near the Turkey/Syria border. 

No tourist heading to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Bodrum, etc. would be anywhere near this region.

While terrorism threats exist in Istanbul (like they do in Paris, Barcelona, etc) there’s no current heightened threat in Istanbul. 

Check the US Travel Advisory for Turkey before your trip, just read them carefully to see what they actually reference. 

Potential for Detainment

There have been incidents of Americans being detained and not allowed to leave the country.

Right now, press freedom is being deeply curtailed in Turkey, even for foreign journalists. According to the current (July 2019) travel advisory:

Security forces have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with terrorist organizations based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated.   U.S. citizens have also been subject to travel bans that prevent them from departing Turkey. Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government, including on social media, can result in arrest.   The U.S. government has very limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens traveling in Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hakkari, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Siirt, Sirnak, Tunceli, and Van, as the U.S. government restricts its employees from traveling to specific provinces in these regions without prior approval.

Now the first half of this is all great advice for someone traveling to Istanbul. Be careful what you post on social media. Don’t go after the government before or during your trip, etc. If you are a journalist, be extra cautious. 

The second half is where things can get a bit confusing. The regions are all far form Istanbul, and if you stick to the main tourist areas in Turkey you will not be near any of these. 

Crime in Istanbul is Low

While you should use common sense, be happy to know that crime is quite low!

Yes, threats of terrorism are possible in any major western city, Istanbul included. And yes, you need to be smart about what you say on social media and avoid political protests. That being said, actual crime in Istanbul is actually quite low.

According to the Turkey 2019 Crime & Safety Report for Istanbul:

There is minimal risk from crime in Istanbul. Even though Istanbul is Turkey’s largest metropolitan city, Istanbul’s crime rates as they relate to foreigners are very low. Remain aware of the potential for petty crimes such as pickpocketing in popular tourist areas and other crowded locations.   Although not very common, petty crime can also occur in locations such as the airport as well as on public transportation, including on buses,  dolmuses  (hop-on hop-off for pay mini-bus), trolleys, and the metro. Credit card and ATM usage is relatively safe with few reports of fraud, including in locations catering to international clientele.

Be Wary of Tourist Scams

Be extra cautious of scams when touring the most important sites in the city!

Of course, there are tourist scams that happen in Istanbul just like they happen in all major cities that get a lot of tourism. The most common tourist scam goes like this:

U.S. citizens have reported a particular kind of scam in Istanbul that targets male tourists traveling alone. The victims are unsuspecting tourists lured into bars in the Taksim area or near Fatih neighborhood.   The ultimate goal of the perpetrator is to get the victim intoxicated and then relieve him of his belongings such as backpacks, bags, electronics or other valuable items. Instances of this type of scam occur more often in the summer, at the peak of the tourist season, and are most likely underreported.

Another scam is for someone to just start guiding you around without asking you if you want a tour guide. Then they guilt you into paying for the tour. Avoid talking to strangers and don’t go anywhere with anyone you don’t know.

Beware of shoe shiners guilting you into getting a shoe shine. They’ve targeted you because you are an obvious foreigner, and they will overcharge you.

Always check that your bill only includes the dishes you ordered. Most restaurants would not pull a scam and overcharge you, but a few scrupulous ones will. 

Finally, avoid pickpockets by keeping your stuff put away. Never leave your bag unattended (I like to sit with a chair leg through one of the loops on my bag). I also use bags with anti-theft features to help make sure I’m a less desirable target.

Don’t Try to Drive in Istanbul 

Skip driving in Istanbul for your own safety

Unless you have a death wish, the safest way to travel around Istanbul is to either use public transit or go with an experienced Uber / Taxi driver. Even if you plan to drive in other parts of Turkey, skip driving in Istanbul:

Traffic frequently congests Istanbul’s roads, as transportation infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the city’s growing population. Drivers regularly ignore traffic regulations, including driving through red lights and stop signs, and changing lanes without first assessing surroundings. Many of Istanbul’s side streets are extremely narrow and overwhelmingly congested with parked cars, blocked easily by accidents or delivery vehicles.   Roads can abruptly turn into dead ends or change into one-way passages with little or no warning. Drivers must pull to the side of the road to make way for oncoming traffic that, at times, can escalate into road rage by some overly aggressive drivers. Drive defensively at all times, and leave room to maneuver…   Due to Istanbul’s unique topography and historic environs, road travel can often prove treacherous during periods of inclement weather, which can include snow and ice. For more information on driving, review OSAC’s Report  Driving Overseas: Best Practices .

13 Istanbul Safety Tips

Here are our essential Istanbul safety tips.

Avoid Political Demonstrations

Stick to Turkish coffee and steer clear of Turkish politics while you’re in the country

I know it’s tempting. It happened to me in Tunisia and Iceland. You see a large protest rally and you just have to know what’s going on. 

Well, in Turkey, stay away. The government views attending unsanctioned political rallies as a criminal act, which could get you detained or arrested. Plus, there’s a heightened risk of violence in these situations. 

So just stay away from political demonstrations of any kind while in Turkey.

Avoid Criticizing the government online 

In America, freedom of speech is a concept that protects you from the government attacking you for your speech. This gives you the right to criticize the government openly.

This right does not exist in Turkey. In fact, online speech against the government is cracked down on, even on social media. 

To keep yourself safe, avoid openly criticizing the government online or on social media while you’re in the country.

Know what to do if something goes wrong

Keep certain pieces of information handy in case you need to use them.

It’s a good idea to know what you would do in a country if something were to go wrong. Besides your embassy’s contact information, keep these numbers handy:

Ambulance : 112  Police : 155 Fire : 110  Tourism Police : (0212) 5274503 

Enroll in your government’s safety program

If your government has a travel safety program, use it!

If you’re an American and you are concerned about the possibility of terrorism or political unrest while in Turkey, you can enroll in the  State Department’s STEP Program . This lets the government know your travel plans, and they will also email you to alert you if anything happens on the ground.

To be honest, I don’t use it when I go to Turkey (though I probably should) since I feel pretty safe there. I have used it while traveling in Tunisia during protests, and I appreciated the up-to-date emails with what to look out for and areas to stay away from.

There is a similar program for  Canadians . If you are a citizen of another country, check with your government to see if they provide these services. 

Do not drink and drive 

If you will be drinking any amount of alcohol, it’s illegal to drive!

We love going to Turkey for the wine and raki, but you cannot mix this with a night drive. Even a tiny bit of alcohol in your blood is illegal and will get you arrested (not to mention Istanbul is not a place to drive if you don’t know what you’re doing).

Have your travel insurance information handy

Have a copy of your travel insurance information in your luggage and your day bag

Since you’re a smart, safety-first kind of traveler, you know it’s a good idea to get a  travel insurance  policy before you leave for your trip.

But what do you do with it once you have it? First, it’s a good idea to have easy access to your policy information so you can make a claim if needed. You can also give the policy info to an emergency contact who’s not traveling with you. In a worst-case scenario, they can access the benefits to help you if you’re unconscious.

Something no one likes to think about:  In an absolute worst-case, your family can use the policy to have your remains repatriated (provided this is part of your coverage, obviously. I look for policies that include this). No one likes to think about this stuff, but it would be worse if something happened and then your family had to figure out what to do.

Of course, the most likely scenario is you have travel insurance and everything goes right on your trip. That would be awesome. You’d have the peace of mind while you travel but you wouldn’t actually need to deal with anything. 

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip. <<

Keep your money safe

I like to use a bag that had anti-theft features like my Pacsafe Citysafe

Don’t every flash your cash. Use a mix of credit cards and cash in the city, and keep everything tucked away. 

I use a Pacsafe Citysafe   backpack, which has a pocked inside with RFID technology. This helps to make sure my credit cards won’t get scanned from afar.

It also has interlocking zippers, which means if someone does see that I have extra cash on me, it will make it harder for them to pick pocket me.

If you don’t want to buy a new backpack with safety features, you can use a moneybelt   instead. 

Don’t drink with strangers

In Istanbul, drinking with friends is great! Drinking with strangers? Not so much.

If you read the section above on tourist scams, you’ll know that one of the most common is to invite solo travelers for drinks. 

Be wary of being intoxicated in public if you’re alone or in a small group, and be wary of any stranger wanting to talk to you. Istanbul gets millions of tourists a year (you’re not a previous snowflake here), so it’s possible that this is someone who is a scam artists. 

Have a hard copy of your card numbers, phone numbers, and passport information

What would you do if your passport got stolen?

If something does go wrong and your cards and passport get stolen, you need to be able to get them replaced. Have a hard copy in case your phone also gets stolen. This way you can call your banks, your embassy, and then your travel insurance company to get everything replaced without needing access to the internet.  

I like to have one copy in my backpack, one copy in my day bag, and email a copy to myself in case I literally get everything stolen. 

Never leave your stuff unattended

Even in a hammam, you get a locker to lock up your stuff!

It’s tempting to leave your stuff unattended when you’re in a restaurant or cafe, especially if you’re traveling solo. How much easier would it be to just leave your backpack at the table while you go to the restroom.

Don’t! Never leave your stuff unattended. Don’t leave your cell phone out on the table. If you’re out in a public place that has a lot of tourists, sit with one of your chair legs through the loop of your backpack.

Be the hardest target, not the easiest. That starts with not letting your stuff be easily snatchable! 

Pay attention to your surroundings

Keep an eye on your surroundings at all times

Pay attention to your surroundings. The one time I thwarted a pick pocket (in Italy, of course) was because I saw him out of the corner of my eye. He caught me looking at him, and he removed his hand from my backpack. 

If I hadn’t have been paying attention, he would have gotten my cell phone, my cash, and my passport! 

Don’t get lost on your phone in transit or in a taxi. Don’t keep your headphones on when you’re walking alone. 

Make sure you can generally see and hear what’s going on around you so that if something is about to happen you’ll be aware. 

Don’t drink the tap water

Don’t drink the tap water – but the wine is delicious!

When I first visited Istanbul in 2011, the tap water was not safe to drink. Since then, they’ve improved the water supply, and technically you can drink it now.

I still would not. It tastes funky and you never know how complete the plumbing fix truly was. 

Instead, opt for bottled water or bring your own Grayl Water Filter   so that you can filter the tap water yourself. 

Women need to use extra caution – just like everywhere in the world 

Ugh…you know it’s true

There are very low rates of reported crime against women in Istanbul, and it’s not a city where catcalling is a real problem.

However, that doesn’t mean women shouldn’t be just as vigilant in Istanbul as they would be in their home towns or other big cities.

Don’t leave your drink unattended, don’t drink too much if you’re traveling alone, be wary of any men who try to get your attention, etc.

Another thing to consider is that while there are low levels of sexual assault reported in Istanbul, you should be just as wary of other travelers you meet as any locals. 

So, How Safe is Istanbul?

Overall, I find Istanbul to be a safe place to travel (at least as safe as other major cities) when it comes to crime and terrorism. Yes, both tourist scams and terrorism happens in Istanbul, just like London, Paris, and Barcelona. But it doesn’t happen more often than in Europe’s most popular travel destinations. 

What does set Istanbul apart from the rest of Europe is the need to hold your tongue on social media and avoid criticizing the government. Stay away from political protests, and don’t make yourself a target while you’re in the country. 

Turkey is less free than many parts of Europe when it comes to internet censorship and freedom of the press. This kind of government-sanctioned violence is targeted mainly at its own citizens and foreign journalists.

This is not the kind of thing that will affect the average tourist in town for vacation. However, be smart about your surroundings and keep up to date if there is any unrest. 

These are great reasons why you should visit Istanbul. The more connected the world stays (even when our governments try to force us apart), the harder it is to lie to people. 

5 Things to Pack to Stay Safe in Istanbul

There are a few things you can bring with you that will make your trip even safer!

The Lonely Planet Turkey :  a good guidebook can help you with the kinds of safety tips you need if you’re out in the city and feel a bit lost, especially if you don’t have internet or a cell signal. These also have specific neighborhood information that will help you in different parts of the city. 

Unlocked Cell Phone:  Allison and I both have unlocked cell phones that we bought in Europe (I use a Samsung and she uses and iPhone ). This allows up to get sim cards when we travel so that we always have the internet. This has gotten us out of so many jams! 

If you don’t have an unlocked cell phone that can use a Turkish sim card, you can buy a cheaper unlocked phone online and bring it with you!

Pacsafe Citysafe or Other Anti-Theft Bag:  This is the bag both Allison and I use (and they also make men’s versions). It has a pouch with RFID technology so our credit cards can’t get scanned from afar, interlocking zippers to make it harder to pick pocket, and it’s roomy enough to be a perfect sightseeing day bag. 

A Sturdy Moneybelt :  If you don’t want to get a new bag with anti-theft features as I use, you can use a moneybelt instead. I prefer to have these features built into my bag instead, but I know for a lot of people a money belt is a less expensive investment than a new bag. 

Grayl Water Filter :  While the water is *technically* safe to drink now, I would still avoid it. If you don’t want to be buying millions of plastic water bottles, you can get a reusable water bottle that comes with a water filter so that you can stick to the tap water and reduce your plastic waste. 

Where to Stay in Istanbul

The lovely Hammamhane – my top pick for where to stay in Istanbul.

Accommodations in Istanbul offer great value compared to other cities in Europe. Here is a general range of what we mean by each budget category:

• Budget:  A room in a hostel, usually $5-12 USD per night for a dorm bed or under $40 for a double.
• Mid-range:  Around $40-80
• Luxury : Around $100 per night or more

Budget:  For a great budget-friendly hotel, you can stay in single or double rooms at the  Dreamers B&B . Colorful and cozy, the B&B boasts a fabulous location in Beyoglu, less than a kilometer from Taksim Square. You can explore all of Beyoglu from here, and then head to Sultanahmet when you’re ready to see the old city. 

>> Check the pricing, reviews, and availability here. <<

Mid-Range:  For an affordable, yet trendy boutique hotel, we recommend  Peradays . It’s perfect for all Istanbul visitors, from first-timers to Istanbul veterans. The lofted rooms are generously large, so you can spread out and relax after a long day of sightseeing. They also have two cats that live here, Pera and Daisy, which you’ll be happy to greet after counting cats all day when out in the city. 

Luxury:  Istanbul has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but we love   Hammamhane , a boutique apartment-hotel that was originally a hammam, and the sister hotel of Peradays. Built in a historic hammam (Turkish bath), the suites are spacious and luxurious. Located in the heart of Cukurcuma, the antique district, Hammamhane is within walking distance to art galleries, design stores, antique shops, and chic cafés. 

Still can’t decide? Check out our guide to the  best Istanbul neighborhoods and hotels.

More Istanbul Travel Resources

We have a ton of resources to help you plan your trip to Istanbul! We’re working on our massive post on  things to do in Istanbul  and Istanbul travel tips , plus you can check out our  guide to the best Instagram spots around Istanbul,  our favorite  Istanbul neighborhoods and where to stay , and tips for  shopping in Istanbul .

If you will be visiting in winter, we have a special  winter in Istanbul  guide plus an overview of  Istanbul weather in January.

If you want to be in the city for just a few days (four or less), check out our  Istanbul city break guide , which breaks down the best of the city so you won’t miss anything!

For more general Turkey information, check out this guide to  planning a trip to Turkey (including visa information)  and this guide to other  beautiful places to visit in Turkey . You can also check out our  Balkan currency guide , which explains how the Turkish lira works and guidelines for tipping in Istanbul.

We have tons more Turkey and Balkans resources, and we publish new content nearly daily. Bookmark our  Turkey  and  Balkans  travel pages so you can find any new resources that come out before your trip!

Finally, Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

It’s always a good idea to travel to Turkey or anywhere in Europe with a valid  travel insurance  policy. Istanbul is a very safe place to travel, but accidents or theft can easily ruin your trip if you don’t have the travel insurance coverage to recover the losses. Recently my aunt fell on a train in France and needed surgery, but luckily her travel insurance covered the costs in full. Thank goodness!

For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads .  I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here. <<

Pin this Istanbul Travel Safety Guide for Your Trip

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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Is Istanbul Safe Or Dangerous?

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 24, 2023 | Asia , Travel Tips , Turkey

Wondering if Istanbul is safe ? In 2022, Istanbul is considered to be a safe (ish) destination. That said, it hasn’t always been.

I visited Istanbul twice (in 2013 and in 2017) and the first time didn’t go well at all. In fact, I had to leave the country because my life was in danger.

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When I revisited in 2017, I wasn’t traveling alone, and my experience was definitely better. I felt safe.

Would I visit Istanbul alone? After my painful experience in 2013, it’s a hard no for me. Would I visit Istanbul again? Absolutely! As long as I’m not alone.

Keep reading to learn more about safety in Istanbul . You’ll get tips to ensure your safety during your travels in Istanbul.

Is Turkey Safe Or Dangerous?

Turkey is the kind of country where you’ll need to take extra precautions, especially as a female traveler.  I wouldn’t recommend you walk alone (or even with another girl) at night.

When I was there in 2013, many girls at the hostels were followed by people when they were coming back at night. It also happened to me in 2013.

A man started yelling at me in the street because I refused to go for a coffee with him. Unfortunately, it didn’t stop there, there was a lot of weird stuff going on the week I decided to leave.

Now, does it mean Turkey is dangerous? Does it mean solo travel is dangerous?

Or is it just a normal feeling women get pretty much anywhere? And believe me, here, I don’t think the word “normal” is appropriate here.

The truth is there are dangerous things… everywhere.

In my own country, even in my province, there was a shooting in a mosque on January 29th, 2017. I didn’t hear anybody ask: is Canada dangerous?

Many terrible events happen everywhere, and while you may not be able to always do something about it, there are things you can do to remain as safe as possible.

A lot is going on in the World my friend. Is the world safe? That’s a tough one. As long as there are humans involved – it will always be a risk, right?

But looking back to the last few years, Istanbul has been stable, and it got safer.

In fact, many solo female travelers go to Istanbul without any problems.

Why Do People Think Istanbul Is Unsafe?

Several years ago, Istanbul made the news after unfortunate events.

Think of a terrorist attack in 2016, the police and military killing innocent people during manifestations in 2013, a shooting in a club in 2017, etc.

For several years, I also thought Istanbul was unsafe after I had to evacuate Istanbul in 2013. Lots of time has passed since, and I believe Istanbul is safer now.

In fact, the country hasn’t made the international news for several years now, and the situation seems to be more stable.

That said, female travelers may face other issues due to their gender in Turkey.

If we consider that the gender dynamic could be different from what you are used to and that Turkey is primarily Muslim, you may feel uncomfortable in certain situations.

This is why we recommend female travelers dress up conservatively to avoid any unwanted attention.

Unfortunately, you may want to prepare yourself for catcalling. The best safety tip here is to ignore men if you need to.

Staying In Istanbul?

Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels in Istanbul. Best hostel: Gafa Garden Hostel Best mid-range hotel: Romance Istanbul Hotel Boutique Class Best luxury hotel: Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul

Istanbul Safety Tips

Now, let’s discuss ways to remain safe when traveling to Istanbul.

While there’s no foolproof here, you can always try to decrease risks by following the safety tips below.

• Dress up like a local (or at least in a conservative way). Turkey is a conservative country and you won’t stand out as much if you dress up properly.
• Do not walk alone at night (especially if you’re a female traveler). Make sure to walk with a friend (even better if it’s a male), or take a taxi if needed.
• Do not leave your things unattended, and don’t wear any flashy valuables. Keep it lowkey!
• Don’t trust strangers and say no. In the markets, you’ll find many pushy people, and the best course of action is to say no. There are lots of scams in Turkey so keep that in mind.
• Stay in a trusted hostel or hotel when traveling to Istanbul. Pick a safe area and make sure the reviews are great. It’ll make your experience better.
• Don’t get drunk or make sure to keep an eye on your drinks.
• Ask your taxi driver to use the meter to avoid being ripped off.
• Stay in the tourist areas if you can.
• Get a SIM card in Turkey so that you can be connected at all times if something goes wrong. We recommend you get an eSIM card if your mobile device supports them so that you can get Internet as soon as you land in Istanbul.

Is Istanbul Safe For Americans?

The recent political turmoil in Turkey in the past has left many Americans wondering if Istanbul is still a safe place to visit. In recent years, the Turkish government has taken steps to increase security in the city and tourists are unlikely to be affected by safety issues.

With that said, it’s always important to stay informed and exercise caution when traveling to any foreign country. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to Istanbul:

• If the U.S. State Department issues a travel warning for Turkey, American citizens should exercise caution when traveling to Turkey.
• There have been some reports of crime against tourists in Istanbul, so it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Istanbul is a large city with a lot of people, so it’s important to be cautious when walking around, especially at night.
• The best way to stay safe in Istanbul is to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings. If you have any concerns, please contact the U.S. Embassy in Turkey for more information. Istanbul is a beautiful city with a lot to offer tourists, so we hope you enjoy your trip!

Is Istanbul Airport Safe?

Yes, Istanbul Airport is safe. But like any other airport, it has its own share of safety concerns.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe while traveling through Istanbul Airport:

• Keep your belongings close to you at all times. Pickpockets are known to target travelers in busy airports.
• Be aware of your surroundings. If you see something suspicious, report it to airport security immediately.
• Do not accept packages from strangers. This could be a form of smuggling drugs or other contraband into the country.

Final Thoughts On Istanbul Travel Safety

As you can see, Istanbul is safe now because they didn’t have any significant events since 2017. That said, yes, it’s safe to travel to Istanbul nowadays.

The last time I visited Istanbul, I joined the World Tourism Forum where many other bloggers were invited.

Many bloggers traveled around Turkey after the forum, and everyone had a great experience.

Always trust your instinct and your gut feeling when traveling abroad!

Are you thinking of moving to Turkey? Read our guide to explore the best cities to live in Turkey .

Need more travel inspiration? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Is Playa del Carmen safe
• Is Cozumel safe
• Crystals for safe travel
• Is Antalya safe

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Insider Tips: Is Istanbul SAFE To Visit?

Introduction

Welcome to Istanbul, a vibrant and historic city that straddles two continents. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Istanbul has become a top destination for travelers from around the world. However, before packing your bags and hopping on a plane, you may have some concerns about safety in the city. In this article, we will explore the safety situation in Istanbul, provide you with essential tips to ensure your well-being, and help you make an informed decision about whether Istanbul is safe to visit.

Istanbul is a city known for its unique blend of old and new, where ancient mosques coexist with modern skyscrapers. As the largest city in Turkey and one of the most populous in the world, Istanbul is a bustling metropolis filled with a vibrant atmosphere. From the iconic landmarks of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the vibrant markets of the Grand Bazaar and the delicious street food, Istanbul offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Like any major city, Istanbul has its share of safety concerns, but with some common sense precautions and awareness, you can have a safe and enjoyable visit. It’s important to note that Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to stay informed and be aware of your surroundings.

In the following sections, we will delve into the safety situation in Istanbul, discuss the crime rates, provide tips on public transportation safety, highlight popular tourist areas and safety tips, identify areas to avoid, address health and medical facilities, and provide emergency contacts. By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of safety in Istanbul and be ready to embark on your trip with confidence.

Overview of Istanbul

Istanbul, often referred to as the “bridge between East and West,” is a city that straddles both Europe and Asia. Its unique geographical location has made it a melting pot of cultures and a hub for trade and commerce throughout history. With a population of over 15 million people, Istanbul is a bustling cosmopolitan city that offers a wide range of attractions and experiences.

The city is divided into two distinct parts: the European side and the Asian side, connected by the iconic Bosphorus Strait. The European side is where most of the city’s historical and cultural landmarks are located, including the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. The Asian side, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back atmosphere and is known for its charming neighborhoods, lush green spaces, and stunning views of the city.

Istanbul is renowned for its architectural wonders, which showcase a fascinating blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern influences. The Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a prime example of Byzantine architecture and is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The Blue Mosque, with its intricate tile work and grand domes, is a symbol of the city and a prominent landmark.

In addition to its historical sites, Istanbul is also home to vibrant markets and bazaars, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and indulge in delicious street food. The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar are two popular destinations where you can find everything from exquisite carpets and jewelry to aromatic spices and traditional Turkish delights.

When it comes to getting around the city, Istanbul offers a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, ferries, and metro lines. These modes of transportation make it convenient for visitors to explore different areas of the city and access popular tourist attractions.

Overall, Istanbul is a city that offers a unique blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern amenities. As you plan your visit, it’s important to keep in mind the safety considerations and take necessary precautions to ensure an enjoyable and secure trip.

Safety Situation in Istanbul

When it comes to safety, Istanbul is generally considered a safe city for tourists. The Turkish government places a high priority on ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors, and security measures are in place to maintain a peaceful environment. However, like any major city, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions.

Istanbul has a visible police presence, particularly in crowded areas and popular tourist spots, to deter any criminal activity and ensure public safety. The city is equipped with a network of surveillance cameras that help monitor public areas and maintain a sense of security.

It’s worth noting that Istanbul is a city with a high tourist footfall, and while the majority of tourists have a positive and safe experience, it’s always advisable to exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas, as petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, albeit infrequently.

Furthermore, it’s essential to stay informed about the current political and security situation in Turkey, as it can evolve over time. It’s recommended to consult with your country’s embassy or consulate for any travel advisories or updates before your visit to Istanbul.

While Istanbul is considered safe for tourists, it’s advisable to follow some general safety guidelines. Avoid displaying signs of affluence or carrying large amounts of cash. Keep important documents like passports and identification secure in a hotel safe. Use trustworthy and licensed tour operators for any excursions. And if you have any concerns or notice anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to contact the local authorities or your hotel for assistance.

By being vigilant, aware of your surroundings, and following these basic safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and worry-free experience during your visit to Istanbul.

Crime Rates and Safety Measures

While Istanbul is generally a safe city, it’s important to be aware of the crime rates and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. The most common types of crimes reported in Istanbul are petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams targeting tourists. However, these incidents are relatively rare compared to the number of visitors the city receives.

To minimize the risk of falling victim to theft or scams, here are some safety measures you should keep in mind:

• Keep your belongings secure: Be mindful of your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Carry a close-fitting bag that can be worn securely across the torso and keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables in a zipped or secured pocket.
• Avoid displaying signs of affluence: As in any major city, it’s advisable to avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. It’s also a good idea to keep your electronic devices discreetly concealed when not in use.
• Stay alert in crowded areas: Tourist attractions and busy markets can be prime targets for pickpockets. Stay vigilant in crowded places, keep your belongings within sight, and be cautious of any suspicious activity.
• Use reputable transportation services: It’s recommended to use licensed taxis or download reputable ride-hailing apps like Uber or BiTaksi for your transportation needs. Make sure the meter is used, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of scams: Istanbul, like many tourist destinations, has its share of scams targeting visitors. Be wary of unsolicited offers, overly friendly strangers, and situations that seem too good to be true. Use common sense and trust your instincts.

Additionally, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the emergency contact numbers in Istanbul. The general emergency number is 112, which can be used for police, medical, and fire emergencies. It’s also a good idea to save the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in Istanbul should you need assistance during your stay.

Remember, while Istanbul is a safe city, incidents can happen anywhere. By staying alert, taking necessary precautions, and using your common sense, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring this beautiful city.

Public Transportation Safety

Istanbul offers a well-developed public transportation system that makes it convenient for visitors to explore the city. From buses and trams to ferries and metro lines, there are various options to choose from. While using public transportation in Istanbul is generally safe, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your well-being:

• Be cautious of crowded spaces: Public transportation can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Be mindful of your personal belongings and keep them secure at all times.
• Use official transportation services: Stick to using licensed taxis, reputable ride-hailing apps like Uber or BiTaksi, or official public transportation services. Avoid using unofficial or unmarked vehicles, as they may not comply with safety regulations.
• Plan your routes in advance: Familiarize yourself with the routes and schedules of the public transportation options you plan to use. This will help you navigate the city more efficiently and minimize any potential confusion or delays.
• Keep your valuables out of sight: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, gadgets, or large sums of cash while using public transportation. Keep them securely tucked away in a bag or pocket.
• Be cautious at bus and tram stops: Pay attention to your surroundings while waiting for buses or trams, especially during off-peak hours. Stay in well-lit areas and be aware of any suspicious individuals or activities.
• Follow safety guidelines on ferries: If you plan to take a ferry to explore the beautiful Bosphorus or nearby islands, ensure that you follow any safety instructions provided and are aware of emergency exit locations.

In addition to these precautions, it’s essential to have a general understanding of the public transportation network in Istanbul. Familiarize yourself with the different modes of transportation, ticketing systems, and any specific rules or regulations that may apply. Istanbul’s public transportation authorities provide maps, online resources, and apps to help visitors navigate the city with ease.

Overall, public transportation in Istanbul is a convenient and practical way to get around the city. By being aware of your surroundings, following safety precautions, and using official transportation services, you can enjoy a safe and efficient transit experience during your visit to Istanbul.

Popular Tourist Areas and Safety Tips

Istanbul is a city that offers a wealth of fascinating tourist attractions. From historical landmarks to vibrant markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some popular tourist areas in Istanbul along with some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Sultanahmet: Sultanahmet is the heart of Istanbul’s historical district and home to iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. This area attracts a large number of tourists, so be mindful of your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets.
• Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue: Taksim Square is a bustling hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Istiklal Avenue, a pedestrian street, is lined with shops, cafes, and entertainment venues. These areas can become crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings and stay alert.
• Grand Bazaar: The Grand Bazaar is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide array of carpets, spices, jewelry, and more. While exploring the Grand Bazaar, be cautious of scams or overly aggressive sales tactics. Bargaining is common, so negotiate prices with confidence.
• Spice Bazaar: The Spice Bazaar is another popular market where you can find an array of aromatic spices, teas, and traditional Turkish sweets. As with any crowded market, be mindful of your belongings and practice caution while exploring.
• Galata Bridge: The Galata Bridge is a famous landmark that connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Enjoy a leisurely stroll across the bridge while taking in the breathtaking views of the city and the Bosphorus. However, be cautious of your surroundings and watch out for traffic.

While visiting these popular tourist areas, it’s important to follow some general safety tips:

• Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
• Avoid sharing personal or financial information with strangers.
• Use licensed and reputable tour guides for sightseeing.
• Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months, by carrying a water bottle with you.
• Respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.

By being aware of your surroundings, practicing common sense, and following these safety tips, you can have a memorable and secure experience exploring Istanbul’s popular tourist areas.

Areas to Avoid in Istanbul

While Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, there are certain areas that are best to avoid to ensure your safety. It’s important to note that the majority of these areas are not popular tourist destinations, but it’s still essential to be aware and exercise caution if you find yourself in these neighborhoods:

• Esenler: Esenler is a district located in the European side of Istanbul. While it’s primarily a residential area, it has a reputation for higher crime rates, including theft and robbery. Unless you have a specific reason to visit Esenler, it’s advisable to avoid this area.
• Gaziosmanpasa: Gaziosmanpasa is another neighborhood with higher crime rates. It’s situated in the European side of Istanbul and is not a typical tourist destination. Visitors are advised to steer clear of this area, especially during nighttime.
• Kucukcekmece: Kucukcekmece is a district located on the outskirts of Istanbul. This area is known for having a higher incidence of crime, especially theft and burglaries. While it may not attract tourists, it’s still important to be cautious if you find yourself in this neighborhood.
• Basaksehir: Basaksehir is a suburban district situated on the European side of Istanbul. While it’s mainly a residential area, it’s best to exercise caution and avoid any unfamiliar or deserted areas, particularly at night.

It’s important to remember that the overwhelming majority of areas in Istanbul are safe and welcoming for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about the local situation and consult with locals or your hotel staff for specific advice on areas to avoid.

In any city, including Istanbul, it’s advisable to trust your instincts and be cautious when venturing into unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, use trusted transportation services, and avoid displaying signs of wealth or carrying large sums of cash. By taking these precautions, you can have a secure and enjoyable visit to Istanbul.

Health and Medical Facilities

When visiting Istanbul, it’s important to be aware of the available health and medical facilities in case you require any medical assistance during your stay. Istanbul is home to numerous hospitals and medical centers that provide quality healthcare services to both residents and visitors.

Many hospitals in Istanbul have international standards and are equipped with modern medical technologies. Some of the renowned hospitals in the city include Acibadem, Florence Nightingale, and American Hospital Istanbul. These hospitals have highly trained medical professionals who can provide a range of medical services, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments.

If you require medical attention during your visit to Istanbul, it’s advisable to contact your travel insurance provider first to understand the coverage and seek their guidance. They can provide you with a list of recommended hospitals or medical facilities that have a partnership with your insurance company.

It’s important to note that medical services in Istanbul are generally not free of charge, and payment may be required upfront. Therefore, it’s crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency medical evacuation if necessary.

In case of a medical emergency, you can dial the general emergency number 112 for immediate assistance. This number can be used for ambulance services, police, and fire emergencies.

It’s also advisable to carry essential medications, prescriptions, and a first aid kit, particularly if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Pharmacies, locally known as “eczane,” can be found throughout the city and are well-stocked with a wide range of over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Lastly, it’s recommended to drink bottled water or use a water purifier to ensure you stay hydrated and avoid any potential waterborne illnesses. Istanbul is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, but it’s always wise to consume food from reputable establishments and ensure that it is properly cooked and prepared.

By being prepared, having adequate medical insurance coverage, and knowing the available healthcare facilities, you can have peace of mind and address any medical needs that may arise during your visit to Istanbul.

Emergency Contacts

When traveling to Istanbul, it’s important to be aware of the emergency contact numbers that can be used in case of any unforeseen situations or emergencies. Here are some essential emergency contacts to keep handy during your visit:

• General Emergency Number: The general emergency number in Turkey is 112. This number can be dialed for emergencies requiring immediate medical assistance, police intervention, or fire services.
• Tourism Police: The Tourism Police department in Istanbul handles issues and inquiries related to tourists. They can provide assistance with lost passports, thefts, scams, or any other tourist-related concerns. The Tourism Police can be reached at +90 212 527 4503.
• Embassy or Consulate: It’s wise to have the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in Istanbul. They can provide assistance in case of emergencies, such as lost passports, legal issues, or any other consular services you may require.
• Medical Facilities: If you require immediate medical attention, contact the emergency department of the nearest hospital or medical facility. Be sure to check with your travel insurance provider to understand their recommended hospitals or medical centers for treatment.

It’s advisable to save these emergency contact numbers on your phone and keep a hard copy in a safe place, should your phone be inaccessible. It’s also a good idea to inform a trusted person, such as a family member or friend, about your itinerary and the contact details of your embassy or consulate.

In case of any emergency, remember to remain calm and follow the instructions of the authorities or medical professionals. Language barriers may exist, but there are often translation services available to assist in communication.

By being prepared, having access to the necessary emergency contacts, and taking appropriate action in case of emergencies, you can ensure your safety and peace of mind during your visit to Istanbul.

Istanbul is a captivating city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and charm. While safety is a natural concern for any traveler, Istanbul is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. The Turkish government prioritizes the well-being of visitors and has implemented security measures to maintain a peaceful environment.

By following some basic safety tips and using common sense, you can have a secure and enjoyable experience during your visit to Istanbul. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Use licensed transportation services and be cautious of scams and pickpockets. Familiarize yourself with the emergency contact numbers and keep them handy in case of any unforeseen situations.

While there are areas that are best to avoid, the majority of Istanbul is safe for visitors. Explore the city’s popular tourist areas, such as Sultanahmet, Taksim Square, and the Grand Bazaar, while keeping in mind the general safety tips and guidelines.

If any medical concerns arise, Istanbul has reputable healthcare facilities that cater to the needs of both residents and visitors. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses and access to necessary medications.

Ultimately, Istanbul offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. The city’s remarkable history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality make it a captivating destination. By staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and embracing the spirit of adventure, you can embark on a remarkable journey through the fascinating streets of Istanbul.

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Is Istanbul Safe For Americans In 2024? Safety Tips For Travelers

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 39 mins read
• Post last modified: February 4, 2024
• Post comments: 1 Comment

Istanbul is among my favorite cities ( top 3 cities on my travel list ). It’s worth visiting, but I understand your  concern might be safety . Like many other cities, it has its sketchy places and neighborhoods. I visited Istanbul for 4 days on my trip to Turkey and felt safe throughout my entire visit.

My answer is  YES; it’s safe if you follow the safety tips  in this article and  use your common sense  when visiting the city.

In this article, I’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about safety in Istanbul and give you  my top safety travel tips . It’ll make your Istanbul vacation worryless and enjoyable. So, let’s dive into it.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Is Istanbul Safe For Americans? Answered!

Yes, Istanbul is safe for Americans . There are potential scams you can experience as an American in Istanbul, such as taxi scams, money scams, or theft. But overall, if you use your common sense and follow my safety tips in this article, you’ll be safe in Istanbul.

Istanbul ranks n. 36 on the list of the safest cities in the world in 2024 by World Population Review . These statistics show it’s safer than Mexico City, Lima, Bankong, or Kuwait City.

If you’re subject to crime , you can contact local police by calling 155 . For any emergency cases and medical emergencies , use the number 112 .

Is Istanbul Safe To Visit Right Now?

Yes, Istanbul is safe to visit right now . I understand many people are concerned about safety and terrorism in the city. Still, as long as you’re aware of possible scams tourists experience in Istanbul and use your common sense, there is no reason to be afraid of visiting Istanbul.

Local authorities are taking measures for visitors to feel safe in the city. If you stay in the safe areas of Istanbul , you’ll have an incredible experience.

NOTE: The conflict between Gaza and Israel doesn’t directly influence Turkey and Istanbul . It’s almost 900 km/560 miles away, and visiting Istanbul right now is safe.

Is Istanbul Safe At Night?

Istanbul is less safe at night than throughout the day. I don’t recommend walking around at night, especially if you’re alone or a solo woman traveler .

However, it depends on the area you’re in. Sultanahmet neighborhood (historical and cultural city center) is safe even at night if you stay and walk around. I would avoid staying late at night in other areas such as Eminönü and Karaköy.

Is Istanbul Safe For Women?

Yes, Istanbul is safe for women , even for American women. If you want to feel extra safe , walk in a group or at least with a guy. I travel as a solo female often, and it always helps me feel extra safe if I explore a place with someone else.

You don’t have to cover your hair when you walk around the city, only if you go inside a mosque .

PRO TIP: As a woman in Istanbul, I’d avoid wearing clothes that make some parts of your body stand out – you’ll prevent weird looks and comments from people on the streets. It’s best to wear loose, rather long-sleeve trousers and a T-Shirt or a long loose dress.

Is Istanbul Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, Istanbul is safe for solo female travelers as long as you stay in the safe areas of the city. Explore Istanbul’s central and touristy areas like Sultanahmet , Eminönü , and Karaköy , and you’ll be fine.

Avoid walking alone in sketchy and dangerous areas of the city, such as Dolapdere or Tarlabasi .

Is Istanbul Safe For Families With Kids?

Yes, Istanbul is also safe for families with kids . The same applies to everyone – as long as you stay in the safe neighborhoods of Istanbul, you’ll be safe and have a great experience.

My advice for families with kids traveling to Istanbul is always to stay together , watch your children, and don’t let them walk around alone or go too far away from you. Otherwise, there is nothing to be afraid of.

Is English Widely Spoken In Istanbul?

You might be surprised, but locals speak English well in Istanbul . The younger generation widely speaks English, so you can communicate easily. The older generation speaks at least a few words in English, too.

You can use English bargaining in local markets, bazaars, restaurants, hotels, and shops around Istanbul.

👉 READ ALSO: What Is Istanbul Known For? 21 Reaons To Visit

Safety Tips For Your Visit To Istanbul

Here are my top safety tips to help you feel safe during your visit to Istanbul as an (American) tourist. I’ve divided them into safety factors , so check them out below.

Thanks to these tips, you’ll know the typical tourist traps and what you should watch out for when visiting Istanbul. Considering these safety tips, you’ll feel safe in Istanbul.

Transportation & Taxi Safety In Istanbul

The best way to get around Istanbul is public transportation – trams, trains, buses, and metro. Istanbul is also a walkable city ; walking around and exploring the city on foot was my favorite.

It’s safe to use public transportation in Istanbul . Only be aware of pickpockets – keep your bag closed and belongings inside your bag, not in a pocket.

Taxis are safe in Istanbul, but some travelers experience scams . While you shouldn’t be afraid of taking a taxi in Istanbul, there is one thing to be aware of.

Some taxi drivers can take you on a longer route to your final destination as they can charge you more .

PRO SAFETY TIP: So my tip is to watch Google Maps and see how your taxi driver takes you. If he is making a detour, tell him and be angry. He’ll see you’re not a typical tourist and have more respect for you.

Is Istanbul Public Transportation Safe?

Yes, public transportation in Istanbul is super safe . It’s the best way to get around the city . I took trams, trains, buses, and the metro while exploring Istanbul and always felt safe.

You should be aware of pickpockets in trams and buses, especially in the touristy area. Watch your bags, and don’t travel with your backpack/pockets open.

PRO SAFETY TIP: Buy an Istanbul Card for public transportation in the city. You can top it up as you go, and it works for trams, metro, buses, and even boats to get from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s affordable, easy to use, and gives you a lot of flexibility.

Pickpockets Risk In Istanbul

Pickpockets are real in Istanbul. But again, there is nothing to be worried about. It’s like in every major city, such as London, Paris, and Rome, Istanbul also has its pickpockets.

My tip is to walk around with a smaller bag you can always watch/have in front of you. I’d avoid walking with a big backpack that someone might open from behind, and you can’t notice it.

PRO SAFETY TIP: Overall, don’t wear anything too fancy or pricy jewellery so that you don’t attract pickpocketers. Also, walk with fewer things and have a good and safe spot for cash and credit cards when exploring the city.

Crime In Istanbul

Crime in the city is moderate . But it depends on the neighborhood and area of Istanbul you’re staying in. If you stay in the historical city center (Sultanahmet), there is a very low chance for you to experience crime.

It mostly happens in the dangerous areas of Istanbul, such as Tarlabasi . A stolen car, smuggling cases, being robbed, broken windows, or drug dealers are common in this neighborhood.

PRO SAFETY TIP: To avoid crime in Istanbul, stay in the safe areas of Istanbul and avoid dangerous neighborhoods. This way, you’ll be safe and have a great time in the city.

Common Traveler Scams In Istanbul

Istanbul can sometimes be tricky when you interact with locals in shops, restaurants, and around the city. While there is no reason to fear for your safety, you should be aware of these common scams and watch out for them when you explore the city.

So here are the most common scams travelers experience (and I’ve seen around) to watch out for when you visit Istanbul.

To make you feel better – none of these scams happened to me . Because I’m generally aware of them when traveling, I take my time to think (when I take a taxi, bargain, do shopping, exchange money). I’m direct with saying NO to let locals know I’m not a typical tourist they can easily scam.

Some taxi drivers may take advantage of you being a tourist and not knowing the city, so they’d drive a longer route to charge you more .

As mentioned above, use Google Maps to check if he’s driving correctly. If not, tell him you won’t pay him more just because he’s going the wrong way. Be direct and strict.

Bargaining & Shopping Scams

Be aware when you bargain on the market. Some locals are very good at selling their products and they’ll convince you to buy everything even if you don’t want it. Just say NO and walk away .

Also, make sure you get the exact change when shopping in bazaars/markets. Take your time to count it before leaving.

Shoe Cleaning

You’ll see older men on the streets of Istanbul brushing and cleaning shoes . Some might just take your foot/a shoe and start brushing it without you even asking for it. They might even say it’s for free, and after, they’ll ask for money. Again, just be strict, say NO, and walk away.

Card Payments – Lira & USD

They might automatically charge you in USD if you pay with your credit card. This adds more conversion fees than the transaction fees involved in the card payment. Remember to always pay in local currency when you travel abroad.

In Istanbul, it’ll be Turkish Lira , so make sure the terminal says Turkish Lira . If not, tell the person in the shop to change it and make the transaction in Turkish Lira. It’ll be a lot cheaper.

‘Free Food’ Scams

Some restaurants and food places may offer you a plate or bring it directly to your table, and after, they’d charge you for it. So always double-check whether it’s free of charge and how much it costs. It’s fine to say I am sorry, but I didn’t order this food, or that you didn’t want it.

Money Safety In Istanbul

As I mentioned above, my general money tip for traveling is to always pay in a local currency when using your credit/debit card. It’ll be cheaper. So make sure to always pay in Turkish Lira when visiting Istanbul.

Cash Payments

You can pay with a card in almost all restaurants and shops. However, most bazaars and shops inside the bazaars don’t accept credit cards . Make sure you have enough cash with you. Also, always count the change you were given.

Some people might take advantage of you not knowing the bills and coins and give you the wrong change. So only leave the shop after you count the change .

ATMs & Withdrawals

If you need to withdraw money from ATM, it’s safe. Make sure to avoid the touristy ATM called Euronet (blue-yellow ATM). It charges higher transaction fees. So choose a local ATM instead.

Currency Exchange Places

If you want to exchange money in Istanbul, make sure it’s an official currency exchange place . Read reviews online before you visit it. Once you go inside, see if it looks legit , and always check the fees before. After getting Turkish Lira, count the amount you got before you leave the exchange place. Make sure you get the correct amount.

PRO TIP: When exchanging money in Istanbul, use XE.com and convert the USD amount to Turkish Lira. Remember the amount in Turkish Lira you should get at the exchange place. Ask first how much Turkish Lira they can give you for XXX USD. Find the place that offers you the amount closest to what XE.com showed you.

Health Risks In Istanbul

There are no high health risks in Istanbul you should be afraid of. Generally speaking, water might not be the best in the city, and some foods different from America can make you sick. But this is a general risk when you travel to a new country.

Eating Istanbul street food is also pretty safe. Always check whether the place looks clean, read Google reviews if you’re unsure, and use common sense.

PRO SAFETY TIP: Make sure to eat in a clean place (use your common sense), wash your hands regularly, and avoid eating food that might make you feel bad.

Is Tap Water Safe To Drink In Istanbul?

Tap water in Istanbul is not the best , so I wouldn’t drink it. During my stay in the city, I always bought water bottles rather than drank tap water.

There is a high chance of getting sick from tap water in Istanbul. So rather buy water in local shops or supermarkets to avoid being sick.

Risk Of Natural Disasters In Istanbul

The most common natural disasters in Istanbul are earthquakes , snowstorms , and floods . As we all know, the weather is unpredictable , and you can’t know and prepare for any catastrophes. But you definitely shouldn’t be worried.

PRO SAFETY TIP: I recommend checking the weather forecast and news before traveling to Istanbul if there are any possible risks of natural catastrophes.

Travel Insurance For Your Visit To Istanbul

When traveling anywhere, not just to Istanbul, I’ve learned that travel insurance is essential . You never know whether something will happen: your flight gets canceled, or the airline loses your luggage.

I’ve been using Safety Wings as my travel insurance because it’s affordable and flexible . I didn’t like insurance companies back home, who told me I could have insurance only for a specific time or otherwise I have to pay more. With Safety Wings, I can apply for specific days and extend it whenever I want , even while traveling . And it’s also super cheap .

➡ Get your travel insurance and learn more about Safety Wings here.

Best & Safest Neighborhoods In Istanbul

Like many other cities, Istanbul has safe areas and neighborhoods you should avoid (if you don’t want to be scammed or feel unsafe).

You’ll have an incredible stay as long as you stay within the safe places in Istanbul . So here are the best and safest neighborhoods you can visit in Istanbul without being concerned about your safety as an (American) traveler.

✅ Sultanahmet – Sultanahmet is Istanbul’s historical and cultural center and the safest area you can visit. It’s fine to walk around here, even at night. It’s where the most landmarks are, too. You’ll feel very safe visiting this part of the city and have no safety issues.

✅ Karaköy – Another safe area in Istanbul, a very stylish neighborhood, is Karaköy. It has many restaurants, street vendors, cute little shops, and smiley locals. So definitely check it out.

✅ Eminönü – Eminönü is another safe area where all the shopping craziness awaits you. From a Spice Bazaar to thousands of mini shops where you can buy everything that comes to your mind, this neighborhood is great for practicing your bargaining skills and hanging around with locals.

✅ Fatih – Fatih is another safe area in Istanbul, slightly further from the main city center. Still, you can be sure it’s safe if you are around.

✅ Beyoğlu & Taksim – I’ve put these two areas last because they’re not the safest at night. It’s all right walking around during the day and exploring the area. However, I’d rather avoid walking here at night. While it’s still pretty safe, use common sense, don’t walk to the back streets, and stay aware if you are here in the evening/night.

👉 READ ALSO: 9 Best Cappadocia Tours From Istanbul

Dangerous Areas In Istanbul – Neighborhoods To Avoid

Istanbul has some poor neighborhoods in which a lot of crime occurs. I don’t advise you to visit these areas when you’re in the city. You’ll be safe in Istanbul if you avoid these parts and stay around the main city center.

❌ Tarlabasi – Tarlabasi has long been considered the most dangerous area of Istanbul, even for some locals. It’s sketchy, and this neighborhood’s crime rate is very high. So definitely avoid walking through.

❌ Gaziosmanpasa – Even though Gaziosmanpasa is quite far from the city center of Istanbul and there is not a high chance you would visit it, I included it in the list. Avoid visiting this area, too, as it’s another dangerous place in Istanbul, especially for tourists.

❌ Dolapdere – Dolapdere is another area you should avoid. It’s a poor area, and pickpocketing and tourist scams are common here.

Where To Stay In Istanbul – Safest Neighborhoods & Best Hotels

Perhaps the most important factor to feel safe during your visit to Istanbul is the area where you choose to stay and book your hotel. This is an essential decision as it’ll be crucial for your safety in Istanbul .

To be safe in the city, choose hotels within these 3 areas of Istanbul as they’re the safest:

✅ Sultanahmet ✅ Eminönü ✅ Fatih

When I visited Istanbul,  I stayed in the Fatih area , and it felt safe all the time. I didn’t experience any safety issues walking around and felt well throughout my stay.

Best Hotels In Sultanahmet – Istanbul

These are some of the best hotels in the historical city center of Istanbul. It’s a great area if you want to treat yourself and stay in a more luxurious hotel with amazing facilities. But you’ll also find many budget-friendly options.

Check out the prices and book your hotel stay by clicking on the hotel names below:

🔆 Efzen Hotel – budget-friendly hotel – book here 🔆 Hotel Novano – mid-range hotel – book here 🔆 Tria Hotel Istanbul – luxury hotel – book here

Best Hotels In Fatih/Eminönü – Istanbul

Here are some of the best hotels in the Fatih/Eminönü area of Istanbul. Check them out and click on the hotel names to see prices and book your room:

🔆 Crowned Plus Hotel – best budget-friendly hotel – book here 🔆 Golden Royal Hotel – best mid-range hotel – book here 🔆 Cronton Design Hotel – best luxury hotel – book here

BONUS: Best Of Istanbul Itinerary For 3 Days

When I visited Istanbul and fell in love with the city, I wanted all other travelers to have the same experience. So I’ve created a 3-day Istanbul itinerary that you can follow to visit the highlights and have a great time. It also includes my tips on bargaining in the bazaar and avoiding scams .

The itinerary will bring you to the safest areas to feel safe throughout your visit. Get it by clicking on the image below:

To give you even more details about safety in Istanbul , I’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions. So check them out below.

Is It Safe To Live In Istanbul?

Yes, Istanbul is a safe city to live in . As long as you rent or buy an apartment in safe areas such as Sultanahmet, Karaköy, Eminönü, and Faith, you’ll feel safe living in Istanbul. It’s a lively city with many opportunities, offering everything you need for life.

Avoid city areas such as   Tarlabasi and Dolapdere, as these neighborhoods are very poor and have a high crime rate .

Is Istanbul Airport Safe?

There are two international airports in Istanbul, both of which are safe . The Istanbul Airport (IST), with all major international flights, is very safe. The second airport, Sabiha Gokcen Airport, mainly serves low-cost airlines and is also a very safe airport.

So you’ll have no issues arriving in Istanbul and feeling unsafe right away.

WRAP-UP: Is Istanbul Safe For Americans?

Istanbul is safe for travelers, including Americans, if you use your common sense and stay in the touristy areas of the city, such as Eminou and Sultanahmet , and the entire old town. There is no reason to feel unsafe. If you feel so, get a guide for your first day so he can show you around and give you further tips. It’ll make you feel safer and better, for sure.

If you have any questions, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you or design a customized travel itinerary for your trip.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Turkey Travel

Looking to visit more places in Turkey? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Istanbul Itinerary: 3 Days With Tips

Best Of Turkey Itinerary 10 Days

What Is Istanbul Known For? 21 Reasons To Visit

19 Best Things To Do In Pamukkale Turkey

9 Best Cappadocia Tours From Istanbul

27 Best Things To Do In Cappadocia: Utimate Guide

Is Turkey Worth Visiting? Answer + 12 Best Things To Do In Turkey

33 Famous Turkey Landmarks To Visit

Does Istanbul Have A Beach? 15 Best Beaches In Istanbul

Istanbul Street Food: 21 Famous Street Foods To Try

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

TURKEY : Interested in more articles for Turkey? Check out my Turkey Travel Page :

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Is Istanbul Safe?

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Is Istanbul safe for new and unsophisticated travelers?

Let’s be honest, who hasn’t heard of Istanbul? An iconic Turkish city with incredible mosques and some of the best food in the world.

Who wouldn’t want to revel in the smell of spices and the feel of a Turkish bath? When it comes to cities with history, very few can top the city of many names.

Whether you studied Constantinople in relation to the Crusades, or have a passing interest in Byzantium, you’d never guess that they’re all different names for the same city!

However, everything from Earthquakes to recent political events and evidence of corruption has begun an unsteady situation in the city. Is it a safe trip to make? Or are westerners targeted for crime? We’re here to give you the scoop!

Table of Contents

Is Istanbul safe?

In this travel guide, we will cover travel safety in Istanbul so you can ensure your trip to this unique European/Asian city is nothing but a safe one, that way you can avoid the common pitfalls that happen to some of the unfortunate that travel here.

How safe is Istanbul?

Overall, Istanbul is very safe for travelers coming from abroad. However, this doesn’t always mean that crime doesn’t happen.

Just like everywhere else in the world, you’ll want to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when flashing cash or walking down back streets.

For anyone looking to visit only the safest cities in Europe this is a good one to compare with. Overall though, the city is safe to visit if you avoid some parts of it that are considered somewhat dangerous (which is not difficult by any means).

You should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops, and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur.

It is rare for a tourist to see any violence occur, but in a city this size, it can happen. We still suggest carrying a money stash to conceal your belongings.

Istanbul crime rate

• The intentional homicide rate in Turkey in 2018 was 2.59 per 100,000 inhabitants. This is a quarter the rate of Russia, and almost half the rate of Chile, the lowest-rated country in South America.
• According to the UK Government, “British nationals made over 2.5 million visits to Turkey in 2019. Most visits are trouble-free.”
• Terrorism is the greatest worry for tourists. The last terrorist attack happened in January 2017. Attacks are linked to Kurdish separatist terrorists from south-east Turkey.
• Incidents of petty crime such as pickpocketing are quite high.
• The United States Security Service assesses Turkey at Level 2, indicating travelers should exercise increased caution. Some areas outside of the Istanbul Consular District have higher Travel Advisory level designations.

Istanbul is recognized as one of the top 25 world city brands on its own journey to becoming a smart city that can compete with major cities around the world.

Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is an interesting city when it comes to the question of safety. On the one hand, it’s just like any other major European city with petty crime problems and often common chances of crime happening to visitors being pickpocketed.

However, it’s still seen by some visitors as a more dangerous place than Gibraltar or Latvia, despite having a lower homicide rate than both.

This is due to the fact that there are ‘dangerous’ or ‘sketchy’ neighborhoods and inner cities that potentially target obvious-looking tourists.

It’s worth knowing what to expect when you get to Istanbul, as well as which spots to avoid. Keep reading below to see our recommendations.

Is Istanbul safe for solo female travelers?

Istanbul is a safe city for solo female travelers and over the year has become more common for solo females. Women traveling alone should take precautions as they would take in any other big city such as London or Paris.

Despite what many people think before visiting Istanbul, there’s no dress code and it is up to individuals to decide if and how to attract the attention of men.

There is no obligation to cover your hair with a veil or a scarf, except when you visit mosques. Avoid walking around the city alone at night, if you want to explore the city by night, it is safer to go with another person or as part of a group.

Is Istanbul safe for American tourists?

Yes, Istanbul is safe for American tourists. But more recently, the US Travel Advisory has recommended American visitors to be extra cautious due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions.

Tourists are advised not to travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces, and any other regions that share the border with Syria due to increasing terrorist activity.

Be alert at all times even in tourist spots and when frequenting famous attractions and shopping malls, where potential terrorists might be plotting an attack.

Is Istanbul safe at night?

Yes, Istanbul is safe at night. It’s preferable to walk around the city during the day, and avoid doing it alone after dark. If you want to explore the city by night, then it’s better to do it with another person or as a group.

The city center of Istanbul and most tourist areas are absolutely safe and you will have no problems wandering the streets even at a late hour.

The main area to avoid at night is Tarlabasi, usually even locals choose to not frequent it. Why not try this nightlife tour as a way to explore the nightscene?

No matter where you end up at night, always keep an eye on your valuables at all times, as pickpockets and bag snatchers are active even after dark. Avoid deserted and dark streets, where there are no people hanging around.

Where to stay in Istanbul

As you may have suspected there are some remarkable places to stay in Istanbul, let’s take a look at some of these neighborhoods below:

Sultanahmet

The biggest incentive to book a hotel in Sultanahmet (we recommend Pell Palace Hotel ) is obviously its proximity to major sightseeing spots.

Here you be in close proximity to attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern and of course the Grand Bazaar. You can get skip the line tickets if you’re short on time.

They are all within just walking distance of most of the best hotels located in this spot. The only downside is that for those who love the nightlife, as Sultanahmet goes quiet once the sunsets.

After dark, the streets are empty and good night entertainment is scarce, which we know would still entice family travelers.

Beyoğlu, which is a district situated on Istanbul’s European side, is home to Dolmabahçe Palace and the Galata area with its famous tower and Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue).

As an area, it is mostly known for its cozy neighborhoods, wide array of restaurants and cafés, and world-famous Istanbul nightlife.

Beyoğlu is basically open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, like New York! But no need to worry, some of the best hotels in Beyoğlu are located in quieter areas, still within walking distance of all the action so you can still be close to everything.

If you’re on a modest budget or traveling with friends why not see one of the many hostels in Beyoğlu to find the perfect group stay.

Areas to avoid in Istanbul

Although there are many good areas, some of the neighborhoods in Istanbul are know to be turbulent, usually for political and ethnic reasons.

During political turmoil, these areas of the city turn into authentic theatres of clashes and guerrilla warfare between the police and the population.

Here’s a list of districts to avoid:

• Gazi Mahallesi

Apart from these places, avoid Taksim Square when there are demonstrations. They can be quite violent and use of tear gas is quite common.

Istanbul: Travel Safety Tips

Here are some tips to help you when you walk the streets of Istanbul.

We would recommend that you do the following:

• Watch out for pickpockets.
• You should carry your passport and a printed copy of your visa at all times. In some busy areas, the Turkish authorities are stopping members of the public to conduct ID checks.
• Remember to get your FREE travel insurance quote from SafetyWing to receive fully comprehensive support when it comes to unforeseen travel compilications.
• Never argue about prices, haggle politely but never raise your voice in marketplaces.
• Make sure to take sunscreen with you. This is a place where you will get sunburnt without protection.
• If you’re traveling yo Istanbu on a budget be sure to check out Agora Hostel as a great way to save money and meet like minded travelers.
• Don’t go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes secluded places. A simple rule: if there are families around, you’re probably safe.
• If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away and on your person. When in need of something sturdy, a PacSafe backpack is more than adequate for this.
• Make sure to use trusted and accredited hotels/hostels. Then once you’ve booked your room, book taxis or buses through the hotel.

Istanbul has been host to many football matches and scandals in the past, but the recent 2019 European Super Cup Final went without a hitch.

Best time to visit Istanbul

When is the best time to go to Istanbul when looking to enjoy the best of the best? Who wants to do a Turkish food tour while it raining after all?

According to our trusted source on this matter, Travel US, Spring is the opportune time of year for an Istanbul city break:

“The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That’s when crowds at the city’s attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime temperatures generally sit in the 60s and 70s. Peak season – from June to August – sees temps soar into the low 60s to low 80s, and accommodation prices increase to match the demand from incoming tourists.”

One of the cheapest times to visit Istanbul as a tourist, however, is the winter. If you want to save money then you’ll find more availability from December to February due to the less inviting weather.

Got travel insurance for Istanbul?

Is Istanbul Safe? Final Words

Istanbul is as safe as you want it to be.

If you arrive with the polo tops, shorts and flip flops take hundreds of pictures, and stop to apply sunscreen in the street – consider yourself a target for petty crime!

If you don’t care about how touristy and unaware you appear, you eventually will after your wallet has been pinched.

But Istanbul pickpockets account for a minuscule demographic for such a large city full of peaceful and welcoming people. Istanbul has a lot to offer, so stay safe!

Don’t hesitate to book a trip to Istanbul today and remember to see our sustainable travel tips to ensure your trip has a positive environmental impact.

Dear responsible traveler : This post may contain affiliate links, which means, if you click through and make a purchase, book a tour or a hotel, we may earn a small commission. This is at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to maintain the quality of this site.

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Istanbul Safety Guide: Is it safe to travel to Istanbul in 2023?

Istanbul’s particular fusion of culture, history, and breathtaking scenery is making it a more popular travel destination than ever. But a question often arises: Is it safe to travel to Istanbul? The answer is a solid “yes!” Let’s delve deeper.

Choose Accommodations in Secure and Convenient Areas

When selecting a place to stay, look for well-known areas that are known for their safety. Sultanahmet, Cihangir, Nişantaşı, and Taksim are popular central locations with various lodging options. These areas have ample activity, good lighting, and a visible police presence, making visitors feel comfortable. Additionally, they provide easy access to dining options, public transportation, and popular attractions.

Explore Secure Areas on the Asian Side

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, consider staying in tranquil and safe neighborhoods on the Asian side of Istanbul, such as Erenköy, Feneryolu, Göztepe, and Caddebostan. These districts offer a different perspective on the city along with a more intimate experience away from the crowded European side.

Discover the North of Istanbul’s European Side

Areas like Etiler, Arnavutköy, Bebek, Emirgan, and Yeniköy provide both safety and elegance. These neighborhoods are known for their upscale living standards and security, making them ideal for a relaxing and secure visit.

Avoid Relatively Unsafe Neighborhoods in the City Center

While most areas in Istanbul are safe to visit, it is advisable to exercise caution when venturing into certain neighborhoods with a history of criminal activity. These include Dolapdere, Tarlabaşı, Kasımpaşa, Kuştepe, Laleli, and Aksaray. By avoiding these places, you can ensure a trouble-free visit. Although some places may appear decent on Airbnb listings in Tarlabaşı, it is best to carefully consider them before making any reservations.

It’s Crucial to be Aware of Common Scams That Can Occur in Istanbul

• Pickpocketing is a common issue in tourist areas worldwide. Always stay cautious and keep valuable items hidden while in public. Use money belts or anti-theft bags to keep your belongings safe.
• Taxi fraud can happen in any city, including Istanbul. To have a transparent experience, consider using mobile apps for bookings and payments. However, be mindful of additional costs for routes like premium tunnels or tolls. Familiarize yourself with our taxi guidelines to avoid any issues.
• Be wary of the “knockout” scam, in which unsuspecting tourists are drugged using food or other consumables provided by strangers that seem friendly. Exercise caution when accepting food or drinks from unknown individuals, and always keep an eye on your belongings. The “knockout” usually takes place in venues.
• The “shoe shine scam” is another possible scam in Istanbul. In this scam, a shoe cleaner purposefully drops their brush near a tourist. After receiving the brush from the kind traveler, the cleaner takes advantage of the situation by providing their services without charge and sharing a heartfelt story about their daily struggles. However, once the cleaning is complete, the shoe cleaner suddenly demands a high price and uses guilt tactics to pressure the visitor into paying. To avoid falling victim to this scam, it is important to remain cautious and refrain from engaging with shoe cleaners, regardless of their attempts to catch your attention.
• When it comes to making purchases, it’s important to double-check the currency displayed on the payment terminal before finalizing the transaction. Sometimes, sellers may try to charge you in a different currency than Turkish Lira, resulting in excessively high costs. This is a very rare occasion.

Dealing with Emergencies

It is crucial to be well-informed about how to handle emergencies while in Istanbul or anywhere else in Turkey. Aside from medical emergencies, it is important to know how to contact local authorities such as fire departments, police, gendarmerie, coast guard, and disaster management. The primary emergency number is 112. Knowing how to reach out for help during an emergency is essential for your safety. Read our emergency guidelines for further information.

Additionally, make sure you have the address and contact information of your home country’s embassy located in Istanbul.

Istanbul is Safe to Travel

Istanbul is a captivating and secure destination that offers visitors an incredible experience. By being aware of potential risks and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure a worry-free trip. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Istanbul has so much to offer for those who are prepared and prioritize safety measures.

Cover photo by Mehmet Bozgedik

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Is Istanbul safe? Common Scams & Safety Tips

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

Categories Europe , Turkey

Home » Is Istanbul safe? Common Scams & Safety Tips

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Istanbul, Turkey is a bustling metropolis where East meets West, and is a haven for explorers like me. A city that wears its ancient history like a proud badge, its streets echoing tales of the Byzantine Empire and Ottoman sultans.

But as a solo traveler, who recently spent three transformative weeks wandering this ancient city, I know what’s on your mind – “Is Istanbul safe?”.

It’s probably one of the first Google searches you did, right? Let’s dive in.

Imagine being in a city where you’re weaving through the tight corridors of the Grand Bazaar, then later finding yourself gazing at the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia. Your heart wants to soak in the Turkish hospitality and marvel at iconic sites like the Blue Mosque, but there’s a nagging worry, often fueled by news headlines about terrorist attacks or stories of unsuspecting tourists being scammed.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Every large city, whether it’s Istanbul or New York, comes with its own set of challenges.

💡 A Note on Current Events : It’d be naive to overlook the political situation in any country, let alone one that sits on the Syrian border. In recent years, Istanbul has seen its share of protests and incidents, but many incidents are isolated, and the Turkish authorities are on top of things when it comes to security – especially in tourist destinations. Check out more detailed safety information for Turkey on Travel Safe Abroad

In this post, you'll find...

Is Istanbul safe for women?

With its rich tapestry of ancient history and modern vibrancy, Istanbul is a captivating city. And, in general, yes – Istanbul is relatively safe for women.

But, if you’re a woman planning to tread its cobbled streets, understanding the cultural context is essential.

Turkey, being predominantly Muslim, has a conservative backdrop, especially as you venture away from the tourist areas. You might notice local women donning headscarves, and while it’s not mandatory for foreign women, it’s a sign of respect, especially in religious sites like mosques.

Now, does that mean you need to wrap up from head to toe? Not necessarily. However, think modesty. On my first visit to the Blue Mosque, I wore a knee-length dress and carried a lightweight scarf to drape over my shoulders. A nod to the culture, without compromising my own comfort.

Over the past three weeks in Istanbul, not once did I feel out of place or threatened, even as a solo traveler without a hint of Turkish language skills.

One evening, I found myself lost near the Grand Bazaar, and with my phone on the brink of dying, I approached a local shopkeeper for directions. His warm smile and eagerness to help, using a mix of broken English and hand gestures, was both reassuring and heartwarming.

Many women I’ve met shared similar experiences, narrating tales of Turkish hospitality that trumped any initial apprehensions. Of course, like any major city, there were stories of unwanted attention or the occasional persistent shop owner at tourist destinations, but these instances were the exception, not the rule.

Safety Tips for Women Visiting Istanbul

• Dress Code : Stick to modest attire. Think maxi dresses, long skirts, and loose-fitting tops. It’s a good idea to carry a scarf for unexpected mosque visits or more conservative areas.
• Awareness : Like in any large city, be aware of your surroundings. While Istanbul boasts bustling areas like Taksim Square, there are quieter alleys where it’s best to be cautious, especially at night.
• Language : While I don’t speak Turkish, I found having a translation app handy. Simple phrases or even a screenshot of your hotel’s name can be a lifesaver.
• Stay connected : Share your itinerary with someone back home. This little extra precaution made me feel secure in a foreign country.

To wrap it up, armed with these tips and a dash of common sense, women can absolutely revel in the marvels of Istanbul.

Is Istanbul safe for solo female travelers?

The mystical charm of Istanbul has beckoned many a traveler, including solo female adventurers like myself. In speaking with other women who have also treaded solo on these ancient streets, a shared sentiment emerges: Istanbul is as enchanting as it is empowering.

While any city has its potential hazards, the overall feeling is that Istanbul, with its blend of rich history and modernity, is accommodating to solo female travelers.

Most women recount their experiences colored with tales of warm Turkish hospitality, be it a tea offering from a local vendor or an impromptu tour from a friendly local. And I wholeheartedly agree.

However, it’s essential to mention that, like in any major city, Istanbul requires you to keep your wits about you. A balance of embracing the adventure while being mindful of personal safety is key.

Accommodation and Getting Around

Finding a safe haven in a foreign city can be a game-changer. For solo female travelers, opting for female-friendly accommodations can make all the difference. Consider staying in well-reviewed boutique hotels or recognized international chains.

A few travelers I’ve chatted with swear by female-only hostels or guesthouses, often boasting an added layer of security and community feeling. Location is vital. For instance, staying in areas like Sultanahmet puts you in walking distance from major attractions like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

When it comes to movement, public transportation in Istanbul is generally safe and efficient. The trams, buses, and ferries can be your best allies, especially during the daytime. If you’re wary of hailing taxis, apps like “BiTaksi” can be invaluable, ensuring you get licensed drivers and can track your route.

Tips and Advice for Solo Female Travelers in Istanbul

• Group Tours : Venturing into popular tourist attractions? Consider joining group tours. Not only do they offer a wealth of information, but there’s also safety in numbers.
• Stay Informed : Always keep an eye on local news or updates. Knowing any ongoing events or places to avoid can be beneficial.
• Trust your Instincts : Your intuition is your best guide. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

In the end, journeying solo in Istanbul can be a transformative experience. As a city where East meets West, it welcomes all with open arms, promising tales that’ll be recounted for years to come. 

Is Istanbul safe for American tourists?

Let’s do a quick history lesson, shall we?

The United States and Turkey are two NATO allies that have enjoyed a multifaceted relationship for decades. From strategic alliances during the Cold War to collaborative efforts in the Middle East, the ties have been both cooperative and, at times, contentious.

While political squabbles might occasionally create tensions on the global stage, at the grassroots level, the bond between the Turkish people and American tourists remains mostly unscathed. Istanbul, as a historic melting pot of cultures, has consistently attracted Americans eager to explore its Byzantine wonders and Ottoman grandeur.

Current Scenario (as of September 2023)

Navigating the streets of Istanbul as an American tourist today, the vibe is one of welcome curiosity rather than animosity. Many American visitors I’ve spoken to over the last few weeks resonate with this sentiment. They frequently recount stories of locals intrigued by their accent, leading to lively conversations over Turkish tea.

That said, in recent years, sporadic political events and protests might give some travelers pause. Yet, these incidents are localized and rarely target tourists.

It’s worth noting that the United States’ travel advisory recommends exercising increased caution in Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions but does not discourage travel outright.

Overall, the majority of American tourists claim their experiences have been overwhelmingly positive, with any safety concerns being comparable to those in other major global cities.

Precautionary Measures for American Tourists in Istanbul

• Stay Updated : Regularly check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories. They provide a wealth of information tailored for American citizens abroad.
• Blend In : While Istanbul is cosmopolitan, it’s a good idea to avoid overtly patriotic clothing or accessories. It’s more about not drawing unnecessary attention than any real danger.
• Avoid Political Discussions : Given the sensitive nature of some topics, it’s wise to steer clear of political debates, especially with strangers.
• Emergency Contacts : Keep the contact details of the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul handy. In any unexpected situation, they’re your first point of contact.

Is Istanbul safe to walk at night?

Nightfall in Istanbul paints the city in mesmerizing hues of indigo and gold, beckoning visitors and locals alike.

The city never truly sleeps. In popular areas, especially around Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, and the Bosphorus Strait, the nighttime vibe is electric with bustling restaurants, live music, and crowded tea gardens.

These busy spots, frequented by both tourists and locals, generally feel safe due to their constant foot traffic and nearby security personnel. Contrast this with more remote or lesser-known areas, where the streets may be dimly lit and quieter.

As with many major cities, venturing into these less-traveled parts can pose risks, particularly for the unfamiliar traveler.

Istanbul at Night: 5 Safety Tips

• Stay in Lit Areas : Stick to well-lit streets, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
• Avoid Isolated Areas : Empty alleys or parks might not be the best place for a midnight stroll.
• Public Transportation : While the metro and trams are safe, be wary of empty carriages late at night. Always know the last train or bus time.
• Trust Your Instincts : If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. Perhaps consider taking a taxi if you’re unsure about a certain area.
• Stay Sober : Enjoy the city’s nightlife, but keep your wits about you. Limit alcohol consumption and always watch your drink.

Is it safe to use the metro in Istanbul?

Navigating the streets of Istanbul above ground is an experience, but the metro provides its own unique view of the city’s rhythm. With some awareness and basic precautions, it’s a safe and efficient way to explore Istanbul’s vast expanse. 

During my solo trip to Istanbul, the metro system quickly became one of my favorite modes of transportation, seamlessly connecting the city’s European and Asian sides. Modern, efficient, and extensive, the metro system in Istanbul has undergone significant developments over the last few years.

Each station I visited was equipped with CCTV surveillance, providing an added layer of security for passengers. The presence of security personnel and police at major junctions was noticeable, and their vigilance seemed unwavering.

I was particularly impressed with the systematic security checks at entrances, where both luggage and personal items go through X-ray machines, similar to airport security — a clear indication of how serious Istanbul is about passenger safety.

• Peak Hours : The metro can get particularly crowded during rush hours, typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM. If possible, try to travel outside these times for a more comfortable experience.
• Guard Your Belongings : While I personally didn’t encounter pickpockets, it’s always a good idea to keep your belongings close, especially in a crowded carriage.
• Stay Aware : Always be alert of your surroundings. If using headphones, keep the volume low to remain aware of announcements or any potential issues.
• Know Your Exits : Familiarize yourself with exit points, especially if traveling late at night.

Potential Dangers and Common Scams in Istanbul

Taxi Drivers

Let’s kick off with taxis. Picture this: you land in Istanbul, your excitement is palpable but you’re also exhausted. The last thing you want is a taxi driver taking you on a longer route to fetch some extra Turkish lira from your pocket.

From what I’ve heard from both locals and tourists in Turkey, taxi drivers in Istanbul are notorious for charging more than what they should for a taxi ride when they find out you’re a foreigner. It’s a common scam, not just in Istanbul but major cities worldwide.

The best way to avoid this is to use the Uber app to order taxis – it will show you the estimated price before you order the ride and will charge you through the app at the end of the ride (unless you choose the option to pay in cash). This especially comes in handy when getting to and from the Istanbul airport .

If you must hail a traditional taxi, agree on a price before starting the ride, or insist that they use the meter. Some will try to argue that they don’t use the meter – in this case, you’re risking being charged more than you should be if you decide to accept a ride from them, so enter at your own risk!

Common Scams and Frauds 

Istanbul is, unfortunately, ripe with a few other clever scams. Here’s a breakdown of some I encountered or heard of:

• Shoeshine Drop : An individual might “accidentally” drop a shoeshine brush. When you pick it up and return it, they’ll offer a complimentary shoe shine. Midway, they’ll demand a hefty fee.
• Friendly Local Trick : A seemingly friendly local may approach you, offering to show you around or take you to a “secret” spot. This can often lead to overpriced establishments where they get a commission, or worse, a more secluded area.
• Restaurant Menu Switch : Some restaurants might present a menu with one price, and after eating, provide a bill from another menu with inflated prices.

In general, a good rule of thumb is to always be wary of unsolicited offers. If caught in a scammy situation, remain calm, and in most cases, a firm “no” will deter them. Having a local or hotel phone number on hand to call can also deter scam artists.

Safety in Tourist Areas

Taksim Square, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace… the list is endless when it comes to tourist areas in Istanbul. Like bees to honey, these spots draw in a lot of people.

And where there’s a crowd, petty crime like pickpocketing can be a concern. Is there real danger? Not necessarily.

Use common sense. Keep your valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and maybe don’t flaunt that shiny new credit card too much.

Political and Civil Unrest in Turkey 

Istanbul, like many major global cities, occasionally witnesses political protests and gatherings. These are typically localized and rarely affect tourists directly. However, they can lead to disruptions in transportation or certain tourist areas.

In the past, Taksim Square and Istiklal Street have been focal points for such events. Stay informed through local news or hotel staff about any planned protests. It’s best to steer clear of large gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities.

Natural Dangers

Istanbul is situated in an earthquake-prone zone. The city straddles the North Anatolian Fault, making it vulnerable to earthquakes. Over the years, significant efforts have been made to retrofit older buildings, and newer constructions adhere to stricter safety standards.

Though modern buildings are constructed with safety norms, it’s essential to be aware.

Despite this, as a traveler, it’s pivotal to remain cognizant of the city’s seismic nature. In the event of a tremor, remember the tried-and-true advice: “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” It’s also wise to note emergency exits in accommodations and familiarize oneself with open spaces in the vicinity. While the chances of an earthquake during a short visit are minimal, preparation never hurts.

So, What’s the Verdict- Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

Having savored the streets of Istanbul, from the bustling Istiklal Street to the serene shores of the Bosphorus Strait, I can affirmatively say: Istanbul is as safe as any major city.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiana (@wheretianatravelss)

Is there potential for unwanted attention or the odd shoe shine scam? Yes. Can you have a great time, immerse yourself in a different culture, and make memories for a lifetime? Absolutely.

Here’s my golden tip: Just as you’d avoid sketchy neighborhoods at home, use that intuition abroad.

Whether you’re a solo female traveler or on a trip with friends, Istanbul is worth every bit of your wanderlust. Pack your bags, but also pack your common sense. It’ll serve you well, whether you’re admiring the Basilica Cistern or navigating busy areas in the heart of the city.

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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Is it safe to travel to Türkiye right now? Latest travel advice

Here is everything we know about travelling to Türkiye amidst the conflict in Israel

Türkiye’s abundance of cultural heritage, fascinating historical sites, great architecture, food and people have made it a go-to holiday destination for decades. Istanbul is an incredibly vibrant city, which straddles two continents, but the country is also known for its beautiful landscape and coastlines. 

However, its proximity to the continuing conflict in Israel , which erupted on Saturday October 7, is causing concern about how safe it is to travel to this region of the world. Here is everything we know about travelling to Türkiye amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. 

Is it safe to travel to Türkiye at the moment? 

Türkiye  has not been impacted by the conflict in Israel.  It depends on where in the country you’re travelling, but the majority of destinations in Türkiye are safe and tourist-friendly. Certain areas have experienced wildfires over the summer, and the UK Foreign Office estimates that the terrorist threat is ‘very high’. However, travelling to Türkiye is not advised against. 

How about Antalya? 

A city with gorgeous beaches which is full of ancient Greek and Roman remnants, Antalya is one of Türkiye’s fastest-growing tourist destinations.  

The province experienced wildfires earlier this year, which began in the forests of Kemer. However, the region has been considered a safe place to travel since the fires were brought under control. 

Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

There is currently no official advice stating that it is unsafe to travel to Istanbul.

What is the UK Foreign Office saying? 

The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to anywhere within 10km of the border with Syria. It also advises against all but essential travel with Sirnak (city) and Hakkari (province). 

Travellers are free to visit the rest of Türkiye, but the advice is to remain vigilant. Political protests can break out unexpectedly and the country is considered to have a ‘very high’ threat of terrorist attacks. The webpage also states that Türkiye is prone to experiencing wildfires during the summer, and recommends taking care when driving through woodland areas. 

What about the Turkey Travel Advisory? 

The advice from the Turkey Travel Advisory is similar to that of the UK Foreign Office. It marks Sirnak, Hakkari and anywhere within 10 km of the Syrian Border as a level four, which means ‘do not travel’. 

Advice about the rest of Türkiye encourages travellers to stay alert, avoid demonstrations and crowds, and to monitor local media for up-to-date information. You can read more about the Turkey Travel Advisory’s recommendations on their webpage. 

How far is Türkiye from Israel? 

Türkiye is 879 km from Israel, or about an hour and a half flight. Türkiye is north of Israel, and the two countries do not share a border. 

Is travel to other countries near Israel safe?

The Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to countries bordering Israel, but advice may change quickly as the violence escalates. 

Read more about the latest  travel advice for Israel and Egypt  and Jordan . 

For more information on how to help those affected by the conflict, you can read our guide on where to donate here . 

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Turkey-Syria border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism.

Sirnak city

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak city.

Hakkari Province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari Province.

Find out more about  why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Istanbul.tips

The Best of Istanbul in One Place

How to Stay Safe on Public Transport in Istanbul: Metro, Buses, and Taxi (2024)

Istanbul, a city where the East meets the West, is a melting pot of cultures and a dream destination for many travelers. As you explore this magnificent city, it’s crucial to know how to navigate its public transportation safely. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about staying safe on Istanbul’s public transport: buses, Metro, and, of course, the most important, taxis.

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Is Istanbul Metro Safe?

Safety in Istanbul’s public transport system is commendable and surpasses that of the New York metro, France, or Spain. People using the transportation services are generally polite, well-mannered, and come from diverse cultures, creating a welcoming atmosphere. As a woman, there is no need to be afraid, as the environment is generally respectful and considerate. The stations are kept clean, contributing to a pleasant commuting experience. However, it’s worth noting that occasionally, you might encounter beggars or thieves. Fortunately, they are not aggressive, but it’s always wise to remain cautious and vigilant while using the transport facilities.

Top Tips for Safe Travel on Istanbul’s Public Transport

When choosing your preferred mode of transport in Istanbul, consider factors like efficiency, safety, and convenience. The Istanbul Metro, trams, ferries, and Marmaray are popular choices, offering fast and comfortable travel experiences while avoiding traffic congestion. Equipped with safety features like cameras and emergency buttons, they ensure secure transport in Istanbul.

While buses and dolmuş also have safety features, they may experience delays due to heavy traffic. Nonetheless, they serve as viable options for destinations not covered by the metro, trams, ferries, or Marmaray. Remember to stay vigilant and follow safety tips for a safe transportation experience in Istanbul.

More about transportation in Istanbul for tourists >>

Safe Transfer in the Istanbul and to/from Istanbul Airport

Traveling to a new city can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding a reliable airport transfer. In Istanbul, one option we recommend is Welcome Pickups . They offer private transfers from Istanbul Airport to your accommodation, and their English-speaking drivers are known for their friendly service. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile and a sign bearing your name, which can make you feel like you have a local friend welcoming you to the city.

There are several reasons why Welcome Pickups stands out for Istanbul Airport transfers:

• They provide transparent, fixed pricing without hidden fees, so you know what to expect.
• Their customer support is available around the clock, providing assistance when needed.
• With real-time flight tracking, they can adjust for any potential delays, ensuring a smooth pickup.
• For flexibility, you can cancel your booking for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled transfer.
• They offer a range of vehicle options to cater to your preferences and group size.

Should you decide to choose Welcome Pickups for your airport transfer, we believe you’ll have a pleasant experience. However, regardless of your choice, we hope you enjoy your time in Istanbul and have safe travels!

Plan Your Route while Using Istanbul Transport to be Safe and Calm

Before embarking on your journey, plan your route using the Istanbul transport map or Istanbul Metro map. This will ensure you know where you’re going and can help you avoid potentially unsafe areas .

Find more apps for navigation transportation in Istanbul >>

Stay Alert and Aware

While using public transport, maintain awareness of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. Watch your pockets, especially in crowded areas, and avoid displaying valuable items that may attract unwanted attention.

Learn Some Basic Turkish Phrases

Familiarize yourself with basic Turkish phrases for transportation. This can help you navigate the system more efficiently and communicate with locals if needed. Resources like TurkishClass101 offer helpful vocabulary lists.

Carry Water and Stay Hydrated

Istanbul can be hot and humid, so it’s essential to carry water with you while traveling on public transport. Staying hydrated will help you stay alert and focused during your journey. You can also buy water at the Metro and Marmaray Station in Vending Machines.

Beware of the Peak Hours to Stay Safee in Istanbul Transport

During peak hours, particularly from 8 to 9 in the morning and 5 to 7 in the evening, transportation in Istanbul can become extremely crowded. The metro, metrobus, Marmaray, and T1 tram are especially affected during these busy times. As these popular modes of transport are utilized by a large number of commuters and travelers, it’s advisable to plan ahead and expect potential congestion during these rush hours.

Follow Local Etiquette and Rules

Understanding local customs and etiquette will ensure a smoother travel experience. Be respectful of others and adhere to rules and regulations specific to each mode of transport.

Know How to Signal for Help

All public transport vehicles in Istanbul are equipped with an emergency button. In case of any distress, press the button to send a distress call, and the vehicle’s history will be traceable.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Download the Istanbul public transport apps to access real-time information on schedules, routes, and fares. This will help you navigate the city efficiently and safely.

Get an Istanbul Transport Card

Obtaining an Istanbulkart or Travel City Pass will make your travels more seamless and convenient, allowing you to easily switch between different modes of transportation.

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Research and Avoid Dangerous Areas

Before visiting any area, research its safety and avoid notoriously dangerous neighborhoods. However, as a tourist, it’s unlikely that you’ll need to venture into high-risk zones. Read more…

Don’t Miss The Best Tours and Cruises in Istanbul

Additional safety tips for each type of transport in istanbul.

Marmaray/Metro

• Platform safety: Stand behind the yellow safety line on the platform and avoid standing too close to the edge.
• Boarding and alighting: Allow passengers to exit the train before boarding and mind the gap between the train and the platform.
• Hold on tight: Make sure to hold onto the handrails or overhead straps, especially during peak hours when the trains can be crowded and sudden stops may occur.
• Stay clear of train doors: Avoid blocking or leaning on the train doors to prevent accidents or delays.
• Report any suspicious behavior: Inform metro staff or use the emergency button if you notice any suspicious activity or unattended bags.

Read more about Marmaray in Istanbul >>

Read more about Metro in Istanbul >>

• Boarding and disembarking: Follow the instructions of the ferry staff and use handrails while boarding or disembarking.
• Life jackets: Familiarize yourself with the location of life jackets on the ferry and know how to wear them properly.
• Seating areas: Choose seating areas that are less crowded and allow for better visibility of your surroundings.
• Stay within designated areas: Avoid wandering into restricted areas or standing too close to the edge of the ferry.
• Monitor weather conditions: Check the weather forecast before your journey and be prepared to reschedule if the conditions are unfavorable for a safe trip.

Read more about ferries in Istanbul >>

Roaming Revelations: Tours Harnessing Public Transport to Unveil City Wonders

Embark on enthralling tours that masterfully employ public transport to unveil the city’s many marvels. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life, effortlessly traversing between landmarks and uncovering hidden gems, all while sidestepping traffic and embracing the adventure.

Use Trams Safely in Istanbul

• Boarding and alighting: Wait for the tram to come to a complete stop before boarding or alighting, and be mindful of any gaps or uneven surfaces.
• Hold on tight: Keep a firm grip on handrails or overhead straps, as trams may make sudden stops or turns.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings to prevent pickpocketing or other incidents.
• Report any issues: Inform the tram staff or use the emergency button if you encounter any problems or suspicious behavior during your journey.

Read more about trams in Istanbul >>

Istanbul is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. By following these tips and recommendations, you can enjoy a safe and memorable experience on Istanbul’s public transport system.

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