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Home > 9 Pesky Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid In 2024

9 Pesky Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid In 2024

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.

In this blog post, we will shed light on some of the most notorious scams to avoid in Istanbul, so you can explore this enchanting city with confidence and peace of mind.

The biggest tourist scams in Istanbul, Turkey, range from missing change to extra additions to your bill and the famous “scenic” taxi route.

Istanbul is a huge city, with a population of over 15 million and countless tourists visiting at any one time. Packed with amazing historical sights and attractions , a beautiful blend of old and new, and of course, plenty of shopping, great nightlife , and fantastic food to be enjoyed, this is a city that everyone must visit at least once.

However, it’s hard to avoid the fact that a city this big is home to tourist scams. When visiting Türkiye’s largest city , you should be aware of the main Istanbul tourist scams. And that’s precisely what this post will help you with.

The regular risk of pickpocketing is increased in a city like Istanbul . Especially places like Sultanahmet and Taksim , where most tourists can be found milling around, distracted by the fantastic things they’re seeing, are vulnerable to this nuisance.

However, if you want your visit to Istanbul to be as incident-free as possible, it merely comes down to being aware of the potential scams that might come your way and, therefore, side-stepping them with ease.

Let’s take a look at 9 of the most common tourist scams in Istanbul.

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1. Great Shoe Cleaning Scammers

You might think you’re doing an older man a favor, but he has something else on his mind. Harsh but true.

You’re walking along, and the man in front of you drops one of his cleaning brushes . You shout after him, and he turns, shakes his head as if to say, “silly me,” and comes back to pick up his brush.

He then thanks you and says that he wants to clean your shoes. You assume he’s doing it as a thank you, but he’s not. He’s about to charge you for it, and once those shoes are clean, there’s nothing you can do about it.

Please don’t feel bad about it, though. This is one of the oldest tourist scams in Istanbul , a scam that’s as ancient as the city’s hills! Be aware of this “trick,” and don’t fall for it when exploring Istanbul’s historic streets.

2. The Great Carpet Shop Scam

It goes a little like this.

A rather attractive, usually young Turkish male will stop you and ask if you’re lost. He might say he’s trying to practice his English, too. You’ll engage in conversation with him because you’re polite, and he is utterly charming.

This is especially the case if you are a single female or a group of women, but he will turn on the charm toward couples too.

If he’s asked if you’re lost, he will offer to escort you to the tourist hotspot you’re trying to get to. On the way, you’ll end up walking past his brother/father/son/uncle’s carpet shop . He’ll say he’s just popping in to drop something off . You’ll be invited to come in as well and have some tea while you wait. He’ll tell you that it’s Turkish hospitality.

You will then find yourself in a room, with your tea in hand, being shown endless carpets. You’ll get the hard sell, which includes telling you they will happily ship your purchases back to whatever country you’re from.

You’ll kick yourself afterward, but it’s surprisingly easy to fall for this Istanbul tourist scam!

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3. the scenic route taxi scam.

This is common in most large cities, but it’s an absolutely classic tourist scam in Istanbul if you’re not savvy about it.

When you get into a taxi, ask the driver how much you can expect your journey to cost. He’s probably going to tell you that it’s a metered rate, but by asking him what you can expect to pay, he knows you already have a price in mind.

So, before you take a taxi, ask a local, e.g., your hotelier or a waiter in a restaurant, how much the price from A to B should be. When you get into the taxi, mention this to the driver.

Some drivers will take you on the “scenic route” through the city if you don’t do this. This will undoubtedly result in the taximeter doubling and even tripling the amount you should actually be paying.

If you’re traveling from Taksim, Besiktas, or anywhere away from Sultanahmet and you have to cross the Galata Bridge to get there; a taxi driver may also tell you that the bridge is closed and as such, they have to go the long way around to get you there.

While the bridge MAY, in fact, be closed, this is extremely rare. This bridge is one of the busiest in the city, and closing it would be big news. If you’re told this “alternative truth,” refuse the journey and find another, more honest taxi driver.

The good news is, after all, that there are more honest drivers in Istanbul than there are dishonest. As in so many other cases, it’s just the minority who give the rest a bad name.

4. Beware the Nightclub Hustle

Traveling on your own can be a blast—until you run into the notorious nightclub hustle. Picture this: a seemingly friendly local strikes up a chat and oh-so-generously suggests a night out at a nearby watering hole.

“Sure,” you think, “what’s the harm?”

But here’s the catch: as you’re clinking glasses and sharing stories, your newfound pal and their entourage are racking up a tab quicker than a politician’s promises before an election. And when it’s time to hit the road, guess who’s left holding the eye-wateringly expensive bill?

That’s right, you.

And to thicken the plot, your ‘friends’ will have pulled a disappearing act worthy of Houdini himself.

You’ll be left not only abandoned but also expected to fork over the cash for those price-hiked beverages. The atmosphere can turn from friendly to frosty really quickly if you can’t pay up. To sidestep this swindle, keep your street smarts about you. If a random stranger is laying it on thick with the charm, it’s your cue to walk away. Remember, solo sipping doesn’t mean you can’t be sociable, but there’s a fine line between making friends and getting fleeced.

5. Where Is My Change?

This particular scam could happen to you anywhere in Istanbul, but it’s pretty standard in restaurants in Sultanahmet . It’s one of the most common Istanbul tourist scams you need to watch out for.

You’re enjoying delicious Turkish food overlooking the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia when a group of musicians comes over to serenade you. You might have had a few drinks, and you’re really feeling the love for Istanbul’s warm welcome . Then the bill comes.

But you’re still distracted.

If at all possible, try and pay with the exact change or pay by card. The reason is that if your bill was, for instance, 150 Lira and you give 200 Lira, expecting 50 Lira change , you might be sat waiting for quite a while.

You would then inquire about the whereabouts of your change, only to be told that you gave them the correct amount of money.

You know you didn’t. Cue an awkward exchange , and in some cases, no change returned.

Again, this isn’t the case with all restaurants, but it’s something to be wary of. Not giving the correct change, or not giving any change back at all, is one of the biggest tourist scams in Istanbul. Don’t get caught off guard!

6. The Tumbling Simit Seller Swindle

Stroll through the streets of Istanbul, and your senses are sure to be tickled by the delectable scent of simit, Turkey’s beloved sesame bread.

But beware the bread-seller’s performance, a ruse as old as the city’s cobblestones. In this act, a vendor laden with a stack of simits takes a dramatic tumble, clutching his leg and playing the part of the injured seller. It’s a scene meant to tug at your heartstrings—and your purse strings.

While you might feel the pull to play the good Samaritan, hold that thought. This “fall” is a well-rehearsed trap set to make you the day’s catch with a plea for compensation. If you’re ever the audience to this street theatre, the best move is to keep walking. Your helping hand is better reserved for genuine situations, not for those fishing for your sympathy—and your cash.

Pro scam tip:  Swap the simit bread for anything – anytime you see someone fall about, proceed with caution. 

7. I Thought This Was Free! It’s Not

One of the most recurrent Istanbul scams is adding things to your bill that you consumed because you thought they were on the house. Sometimes, you’ll find that those things were not free and cost quite a lot of Lira.

If anything comes to your table that you didn’t individually order, either ask about it or don’t eat it. Overall, meze usually is free, but not in every single restaurant. So, again, check. If you’re eating at an ocakbasi (a typical Turkish grill restaurant), water will be put on your table, and you might assume it’s there to drink free of charge. Yet, it’s not.

The same goes for bars. You might have a bowl of nuts put on your table when you order a couple of beers. Assuming they’re free, you’ll munch along while enjoying your night, only to be charged 20 Lira for the pleasure.

Check your bill carefully when it arrives and question anything that doesn’t seem right.

8. The “Officer” Impersonator Ruse

Imagine you’re minding your own business, and out pops someone claiming to be the law, demanding to see your passport and wallet. Red alert! Real officers aren’t interested in a peek at your cash stash.

Hand it over, and you might as well say goodbye to your benjamins—or watch your would-be “protector of the peace” take off in a sprint that could give Olympians a run for their money. Here’s a golden rule for globetrotting: your wallet stays with you, period.

When it comes to identification, a photocopy of your passport should suffice for any genuine badge-wearing individual. So, if you find yourself facing a dubious “officer” with an outstretched hand, remember that the only running you should be doing is through the proper verification checks. Keep your wits—and your wallet—about you, and you’ll navigate clear of this con.

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9. The Booze Bamboozle

Let’s chat about a tipple trick that’s been making the rounds in Turkey, especially in tourist hotspots. Now, before we dive in, it’s essential to note that the majority of bars are as straight as an arrow and wouldn’t dream of duping you. However, with the Turkish Lira doing a bit of a nosedive, some establishments have turned to less-than-savory tactics to keep their spirits up and cash flowing.

So here’s the scoop: not all that glitters is gold, and not all that’s poured is pure. There’s been talk of some bars serving up fake alcohol. Yes, you heard that right. If your cocktail tastes more like paint thinner than a piña colada, don’t chalk it up to local flavor—send it back. And if the rumor mill churns out warnings about certain establishments, give them a wide berth.

The sneakier scheme you might encounter is the old watered-down whiskey waltz. Picture this: you order a drink, but the kick is missing. It’s like a soccer game without a ball. You’re not getting the full-strength beverage you paid for, and that’s a straight-up swindle. If your sip seems suspiciously subdued, it’s time to play detective. Flag down your server, state your case, and demand the real deal. After all, when you pay for a lion, you shouldn’t get a kitten.

Now you know about the biggest Istanbul tourist scams!

This is not an exhaustive list of potential tourist scams that may come your way in Istanbul. However, as you can see, you can avoid them all only by being informed, aware, and vigilant.

Most people you’ll encounter in Istanbul are friendly, charming, and welcoming and would be horrified to learn of anything happening to you in this way. It’s always the few that mess things up for the many!

Here are a few more scams in Turkey to watch out for.

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Comments (4)

Another scam that will happen on Istiklal – guy will walk up to you saying something in turkish. When you reply in english he’ll say “oh wow thought you were turkish! what are you up to? do you have a lighter? come to my friends’ bar with me let’s get a beer?” Or he’ll skip the turkish part if you don’t look turkish at all. They’re trying to get you to come to a buddy’s bar where they’ll strong arm you into paying 500$ for a couple beers

We used your site last year to plan our trip and found it so helpful. We found it again today after being scammed today in Istanbul by a shoeshiner. I just wanted to say thank you for helping people like us.

Can you give a link to popular group on social network exposing scamers in istanbul. I had an experience and have a photo of the guy and want to put him up for turists to void him on the Istikal Street. Thank you.

Oh I am sorry you had a bad experince. I hope you are ok. My favourite is this group https://web.facebook.com/groups/395098057757817 – it is called “ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE”

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Jul 31, 2023 · istanbul · travel safety · 12 min read

The Most Common Tourist Scams in Istanbul (And How to Avoid Them)

Stay scam-aware and safe while exploring Istanbul's enchanting attractions!

Istanbul is a safe city, but like any big tourist destination, it can also be home to scams targeted at naive and unknowing tourists with money.

We’ve created a list of the most common tourist scams in Istanbul and how you can avoid them. Some scams may be similar to ones you have seen in other cities and seem very obvious, while other scams are more on the creative side. Having some awareness of these scams will help you avoid a potentially dangerous situation and spare you the grief of getting ripped off on your holiday.

So, what are the most common tourist scams in Istanbul?

The “Let’s Have a Drink” Scam

First off, any stranger who approaches you in the street by saying “my friend” is probably NOT your friend and definitely wants something from you. With that being said, the “ Let’s Have a Drink ” scam is one of the most prevalent scams in Istanbul, mostly targeted at solo male travelers or small groups of male tourists.

You will be approached in a bar, restaurant, or while walking along the main street of Istiklal Caddesi (Avenue) in the Taksim neighborhood . Usually, it's a well-to-do looking man, fluent in English, who approaches you with some flattering compliments or questions while he tries to start a conversation.  

“Excuse me, but are you Turkish? You look Turkish!”

“My friend, where are you from?”

After some chat about your life and travels, you will be asked to go for a drink with the promise of perhaps the best wine, the best nightclub, or even the best Turkish ladies.

You will most likely be taken to one of the scammer’s bars in the side streets along Istiklal Avenue, with underdressed working women and ridiculously overpriced drinks. Upon entry, you will immediately be given a round of drinks for you and your newly found female company.

When you wish to leave, you will be hit with a huge bill that can be hundreds to thousands of dollars. If you refuse to pay, you will be kindly met by some very large and threatening men also working in the bar. You may even be escorted to the nearest ATM to ensure your payment.

How to Avoid

When given advice by a complete stranger on the street or in establishments, keep the conversation short and decline their invitation immediately . The scammer will then move on to their next target. There are much better resources for finding out good spots in Istanbul .

The Currency Conversion Scam

The Turkish lira has recently seen drastic changes, making shopping in local currency a great deal for tourists.

When shopping in a local shop for carpets, leather goods, wine, Turkish delights, etc., you will be met by a very friendly and helpful salesperson. You will be assured that their products are the most authentic and best in town. They may even make you feel good by letting you haggle the price down. Think again.

When swiping your credit card you will be charged in euros and not Turkish Lira. Suddenly, that 2,000 Euro Turkish carpet doesn’t seem like a great deal anymore.

Pay in cash with Turkish Lira or double check with the salesperson that currency is in Turkish Lira before you swipe your credit card . The bottom line: if it seems like too good of a deal to be true, it probably isn’t true!

Your Friend, the Carpet Salesmen

The Sultanahmet and Grand Bazaar neighborhoods are booming tourist areas with many carpet stores and leather goods shops. You will be approached by an amiable man who may be fluent in several languages.

He may ask you if you are lost and need help finding one of the popular sightseeing spots . You may even get a fantastic and knowledgeable tour of the famous Blue Mosque .

Afterward, you will be led to one of his carpet or leather goods shops. You will be graciously invited inside to meet his family members and friends where you’ll be given tea and Turkish delights with hospitality. He will tell you all about how his shop is one of the only shops in town that still produces 100% authentic and high-quality goods.

Before you know it, you will be stuck looking at every Turkish rug under the sun and still wondering how you got yourself into this situation.

If you are actually lost, approach another tourist for directions. Chances are they may know directions to the sightseeing destination you want to go to.

Salespeople use this friendly tactic as a clever way to get potential customers into their store. Recognize this is happening before it goes on too long and you feel uncomfortable.

If you are in the market for a Turkish rug, be advised that salespeople can be persistent. Never give your phone number to salesmen as you don’t want to be pestered for the duration of your holiday.

The Shoe Shine Trick

Shoe shiners are ever-present in main tourist destinations in Istanbul , including Taksim, Sultanahmet, Grand Bazaar, and Galata Bridge. They have a couple of sneaky “brush dropping” tactics they use to lure their customers in for a shoeshine, then overcharge you afterward.

Trick # 1 - while walking in front of you, they drop their brush in front of you, waiting for you to pick it up and hand it back to them. Out of deep gratitude, they offer you a shoeshine.

Trick #2 - they will walk past you and drop their brush on your feet. This results in a heartfelt apology, they will then offer you a shoe shine.

When you think the shoe shine is for free, the shoe shiner will demand to pay much more than the price of a shoeshine. You may also get a heartfelt story about his family problems or sick wife during your shoe shine. If you argue about the price, you will be met by a group of his “co-workers.”

Never pick up the brush or engage with the shoe shiner and keep on walking! There are honest shoe shiners in Istanbul who are not out to scam; just be sure you agree to the price beforehand for BOTH shoes. This should not be more than 10 Turkish liras.

Taxi Driver Scams

Istanbul is home to nearly 20,000 taxis, so you may never have a problem finding one. Taking a taxi is relatively cheap, but it’s important to be aware that there are many different types of common taxi scams so that a 20 TL worth taxi ride doesn’t turn into a 100 TL one.

Extending the Ride

This is a common trick pulled on tourists in most big cities. As a tourist, you probably do not know your way around the city , the direction you're supposed to go, or how much it should cost.

This can be hard to avoid if you don’t speak Turkish or know the area well. Here is a Taxi Fare Calculator you can use for an estimated fare to expect. You can follow along using the maps feature of your smartphone to get a general idea of the time and direction you should be going.

The Sneaky Note Swap

A driver will swap out the Turkish Lira notes for that of a lower denomination. If your taxi costs 25 TL and you hand him a 50 TL note, he will quickly swap the 50 TL note for a 5 TL note while you are not looking. He then shows you the 5 TL note and waits for you to hand him the remaining 20 TL.

This can result in quick confusion as you were expecting change and unfamiliar with the currency notes.  You now have just paid 70 TL for a 25 TL ride.

Be sure to carry plenty of low denomination notes (5 TL and 10 TL) along with coins so you can give the exact amount. If you do need change, show the driver your note first before you hand it to him so he can prepare the change for you. If possible, try to familiarize yourself with the currency and note the different colors between different banknotes.

"I Have No Change"

You need 5-10 TL worth of change from the driver. He shows you that he only has 2-3 TL in coins, trying to score an extra bit on top of the fare.

Ask the driver to go into a shop to change the note. Usually, the change suddenly appears out of thin air. You can also let it go, as it may only be a few Turkish liras worth if you don’t want to put up the fight.

Not all taxi drivers are dishonest! The majority of taxi drivers are honest, hardworking, and want to help.

Using apps like BiTaksi or Uber will help you avoid a situation where you are ripped off. These apps are review-based and most often offer support in the case of a mishap.

The Fake Goods Scam

Turkey is recognized throughout the world for its beautiful hand-woven rugs. Carpets can be range from high-quality to very low-quality and prices may range from a few hundred to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Unless you know what exactly you are looking for, you are at risk of being scammed out of a lot of money. The same goes for jewelry and leather goods.

Turkish carpet salesmen are very friendly yet can be quite pushy. They may exploit a tourist for their lack of knowledge and charge highly inflated prices. Carpets may not come from Turkey, but instead other regions such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Armenia, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

This may not be a bad thing, as you can find high-quality carpets from all regions in the world, but be careful when you are given a certificate of “authenticity.”

Often, jewelers and leather goods stores will also offer these bogus “certificates” with contact info that leads to a bounced back email address and a false phone number. You don’t want to find out when you get home, the precious stone you spent thousands of dollars on is worth nothing more than a cup of coffee.

If you are in the market for a beautiful Turkish rug, do some research before your trip. Find out exactly what you would like as there are several different categories and grades that may influence the quality and price. Ask the right questions and deal with a reputable merchant.

The same goes for buying high ticket items such as jewelry and leather goods. Stay away from merchants that are crawling in the tourist areas of Sultanahmet and Grand Bazaar. Don’t let them pull the rug out from underneath you!

A side note: Istanbul is also a great place to buy many “authentic-looking” fake designer brands. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Armani, you name it.

If you don’t mind wearing something “knock-off,” you can score a really great deal. Just remember to haggle the salesperson down as you should NOT be paying top dollar.

Pickpocketing

This may occur in any crowded tourist area but can also happen in a crowded tram, bus, or metro car. Often pickpocketers will work in teams with spotters casually looking for potential targets. Misdirection is the tactic of distracting your attention from your valuables and then skillful sleight of hand to swipe and run.

When entering and exiting the metro, someone may intentionally block the doorway, causing a bottleneck. This is when a pickpocketer may strike.

Always keep your wallet in the front pocket of your pants and wear your bags and purses close to your body. Keep your valuables to a minimum and on your person at all times. Never leave your bags or jackets unattended when at a cafe, bar, or restaurant; even if it's only for a brief moment.

Restaurant Scams

Delicious Turkish food can be found at many restaurants in tourist areas on both the high and low-end price range. Just be aware of what you are stepping into despite the fact you may be tired and hungry from your day out and about.

Tourists may be charged for things they have consumed but did not specifically order. For example, while waiting for your food the waiter may bring out some bread, other small appetizers, and pour everyone some water.

You may think this is complimentary, but you will find these items tacked onto your bill later on, oftentimes at an unreasonable price. You may also be given a more expensive price list for tourists, than one that is offered for locals.

Don’t let your hunger get the best of you! Use good judgment before spontaneously entering any bar or restaurant in busy tourist areas such as Sultanahmet or Taksim. Read the menu and ask what is included and what is not, and be sure to specify your order.

Research where you would like to go beforehand. Use Tripadvisor or local apps like Zomato (available in English) to read reviews to avoid an unpleasant dining experience.

What to Do If You Are Scammed

If you are scammed you will probably be experiencing a number of emotions, mostly anger and frustration. Do not panic though, it can happen to anyone. The good news is there still may be something you can do to get your money back.

If you are scammed for a high-priced item, you can try to get your money back. Be sure to save all of your receipts or invoices from your purchase. If purchased with a credit card, contact your bank/credit card company and dispute the charges. Also, ask your bank/credit card company if you are covered for fraud/scams.

Some travel insurance providers may even offer fraud/scam coverage up to a certain amount.

You can also try to go back to the shop where you were scammed and dispute the transaction, but more often than not people don’t realize they have been scammed until it’s too late and they have returned to their home country.

As a last-ditch effort, you can contact the local Turkish authorities below:

Istanbul Tourism Police Hotline

• Address: Emniyet Müdürlüğü Turizm Şube Müdürlüğü Yerebatan Cad. No: 6 Sultanahmet, Istanbul
• Phone Number: **+**90 (212) 527 4505

The Department of Customer Rights Office

• Located along the large walking street Istiklal (with the old tram).  In the direction away from Taksim Square, it will be on your left about a quarter of the way down.

It’s advised that you visit these places in person as you will not have much success on the phone unless you have a Turkish speaker present.

Final Thoughts

Our most important piece of advice: be vigilant.

It’s very easy to lose your sense of control when traveling to a new place as you are already overwhelmed with new sights, sounds, and emotions. Be aware of the risks and be cautious of anyone who seems overly nice.

Remember that in the eyes of the scammer you are just a tourist with a potential opportunity to earn. Since you have read this article you will now be able to prevent any potential mishaps .

Nothing bad is meant against the locals of Istanbul who 99.8% are honest, hard-working, and friendly people, but we hope that covering some of the most common tourist scams in Istanbul can prevent a disaster from happening on your holiday. Remember, travel safe and travel wise, and enjoy your time in the magical city of Istanbul!

Istanbul Insider

Istanbul travel guide and advice by locals.

How To Spot and Avoid Common Istanbul Tourist Scams?

Istanbul, just like every world city, has to cope with its typical tourist scams. Although most Turks are unbelievably honest and would go the extra mile to help you rather than rip you off, in a city with well over 18 million inhabitants, you’ll always find a few people with different intentions. This shouldn’t scare you, on the contrary. Compared to other world cities, Istanbul has fewer tourist traps, and thanks to this post you will be able to spot and avoid these Istanbul tourist scams easily. Once you’re done, don’t forget to check out how to prevent popular Istanbul taxi scams , too.

The Setting

Before I dive into the details of each different Istanbul tourist scam, keep the following in mind:

• Most of these rip-offs occur in Istanbul’s very touristic, crowded and/or busy places, e.g. Sultanhamet Square, Istiklal Caddesi, Cumhurriyet Caddesi, Taksim Square and its surrounding streets. Therefore, you are less likely to come across scams in residential areas such as Cihangir.
• Their preferred targets are tourists travelling alone (Let’s Have a Drink) or in very small groups
• If you suspect a scam coming up and don’t accept their invitation right from the start, they will never get rude or insult you, and just move on

Let’s Have a Drink

Goal — Get you to enter one of their bars with overpriced drinks and underdressed women. The result is always the same: you end up with a huge bill, often into hundreds of Euros.

Target — Single white men

Set-up — A well-dressed man, fluent in English, approaches you and tries to start a conversation. If you’re a smoker he’ll ask you for a lighter (and if you pay close attention, you may even notice him throwing away a burning sigarette seconds earlier). If you’re not, then he may just walk up to you. And even if you’re sitting alone at a terrace table, he may sit down at the table next to you and start a conversation this way. Regardless of his approach, the conversation will always lead in the same direction: whether you would like to join him for some after work drinks in a great place (of a friend of his) that he knows.

How to Avoid — Never take advice from complete strangers about establishments worth trying out. You’ll find a nice selection of the best cafés, bars and nightclubs on this site. Just tell him you’re waiting/meeting with two or three other friends and are not interested. Right from the start decline his invitation and move on. Don’t promise ‘tomorrow’, because he may keep on trying his chance for days to come.

Carpet or Leather Shop

Goal — Get you to buy goods in shops he works for, and where you with near certainty won’t get the best bargain.

Target — Anybody wandering around in Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar

Set-up — A very friendly guy, fluent in several languages, will ask if you are lost and need some help in locating some of the sightseeing spots and/or Grand Bazaar shops. And as he ‘guides’ you, he’ll pass some of his shops and remember he had to drop something off. He will of course invite you in to meet his family member(s). Before you know it, you’ll be drinking tea, listening to how only they still make quality leather or carpets, and why you should buy something there. If you manage to keep your wallets closed, he promises to take you to the place you were actually looking for … and the whole procedure starts again.

How to Avoid — When people offer to guide you around, be aware. Instead, if you’re really lost, you take the initiative by asking someone.

Pickpocketing

Goal — Steal your wallet or other valuables.

Target — Careless tourists.

Set-up — None! Any crowded street,  public transport, or place will do.

How to Avoid — Just like any Turk, keep your wallet in the front pockets of your pants, wear your handbags within eyesight and carry back-packs on the front of your body. Make sure all the zippers are properly closed. Also, never leave bags or other valuables such as mobile phones, iPods, etc. unattended on (terrace) tables or easy to grab for bypassers.

Goal — Talk you into getting a shoe shine (for free) and overcharge you afterwards.

Target — Singles, couples, small families or groups

Set-up — They have mainly two tricks up their sleeve to get them to polish your shoes. Either they walk past you and drop their brush on one of your shoes, or they walk in front of you and drop their brush hoping you would pick it up and hand it to him. The result for both cases is the same: to apologize or as a token of gratitude, they start shining your shoes. While you think it’s for free, he’ll demand you to pay much more than the price of a regular shoe shine. If you start arguing, more of his ‘colleagues’ will show up to back him up.

How to Avoid — Don’t pick up the brush and just keep on walking. In case the brush fell on your shoe, tell him that it’s ok and move on. Having said this, there are plenty of legitimate shoe shines in Istanbul doing a great job. They normally don’t move around and ask between 5 and 10 TL. Agree on the price beforehand — for both shoes! (another trick)

Restaurants 1

Goal — Overcharge tourists.

Target — Unaware tourists.

Set-up — They offer tourists a different price list (in their own language) than locals, with prices significantly higher than they would charge locals.

How to Avoid — Compare the Turkish price list with the one you got, but if nobody in your group speaks Turkish, it’s pretty difficult to do. Make sure to have a good look at the price list, and compare it with the same dishes at similar establishments. Only enter if it looks reasonable for what you anticipate to get.

Restaurants 2

Goal — Make you pay for things you didn’t order (but consumed).

Target — Unaware hungry tourists.

Set-up — This mostly happens in restaurants specifically geared towards tourists. You and your friends are hungry and tired, sit down, flip through the menu and order your meal, not really paying attention to what’s included and what’s not. You also order a few beers, for example. If you don’t specify which beer brand you prefer, surely he’ll bring you the more expensive Miler than instead of the cheaper local Efes. While waiting for your food, the waiter brings your aperitifs and puts some nuts or bread on the table. Besides the ordered drinks, he also pour everyone a glass of water. Hungry as you are, everyone digs in and consumes the bread and plate of nuts, thinking this is complementary. Of course you’ll find those items on your bill later on. The same with “can I happen some more french fries, please?” This more often than not will be jotted down as an extra portion.

How to Avoid — Pay close attention to what you’re ordering, and when in doubt specifically ask the waiter what comes with the dish and what you need to order extra. Also be very specific while ordering, and be sure to immediately send back anything you didn’t order and without touching or trying it.

Goal — Overcharge you for the ride.

Target — Anybody

Set-up — Traffic jams, short cuts, etc.

How to Avoid — Check out Tips To Prevent Popular Istanbul Taxi Scams .

Further Recommended Reading

• How to Bargain Like a Pro in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Elsewhere
• Tips To Prevent Popular Istanbul Taxi Scams
• Fresh Fish in Istanbul – How to Pick and Order a Nice One

Birol Ozturk says

March 14, 2024 at 6:50 pm

I was in kusadasi and decided to stop at an atm for cash. I put my card in but it got stuck. The screen didnt register my card. I could see the card but I couldnt reach it. A local who was standing on the corner asked me if I needed help. I said my card is stuck. He said it happens all the time. Just put ur pin number in and it will come out. I said it wont cos the computer is not showing it has my card.He was insisting again and again. So I pressed 0000 which isnt my number.Of course nothing happened. He said come back 2moro morning and the bank will give it to u. He walked back to the corner. I remained there for a few minutes with the guy nearby. He came back and I said to him I wont be leaving till I get my card.He pulled out his atm card turned it around so the raised numbers were facing downward and put it in the atm and pulled my card out. Gave it to me and walked away. If he saw my pin number he would of waited till I was gone and hot my card and withdraw my money. Now I will only use atms overseas during the day when the banks are open.

Federico says

July 30, 2023 at 5:44 pm

Hi, me and my girlfriend are visiting Istanbul and we just experience something suspicious.

We got stopped in Galata by a young girl claiming she was a student doing a school project, and because of this she was selling newspaper to pay for her studies. We asked how much was it and she said free offer, it all sounded legit but something was off and we kindly refused and left.

Just few moments after we noticed a guy was chasing us, he had a bad look, we stopped and changed directions a couple of times and he kept following, so we took a turn and ran, when we stopped and looked at him straight in the face he understood we were aware of him chasing us so he turned around and walked off.

Now, i don’t know if the two episodes are linked but i feel they are. We are not sure what the guy wanted from us but be extra careful when someone stops you.

May 28, 2023 at 2:31 pm

Are the girls using real pictures in the social escort website and is it safe to visit one?

Erlend says

May 28, 2023 at 8:56 pm

Really wouldn’t know.

Serdar says

July 27, 2023 at 5:38 pm

No, If you are not local I wouldn’t risking trying to visit a escort my guy. It is not thailand it is istanbul. You can either get beaten and taken all your money or you can get arrested by undercover cops because it is illegal.

October 1, 2023 at 12:29 pm

How any of the subway one not mentioned is beyond me

Ralph Bétand says

March 20, 2023 at 11:31 pm

I can also report a new one. At midnight in January, a well dressed guy passed by in front of the Airbnb where I have been living in Istanbul and asked me if I speak French (which I do).

He pretended to be French, and said his wallet was stolen, and he needs money, to avoid sleeping in the streets. Since he got really(!) aggressive (stating that he would kill the next person who who would not help him) and due to the fact that he knew where I have been living at that time, I just gave him the money. Moreover, he played his role so well (many details of the story etc.) that I partly want to trust him. In the end I gave him 100€.

At last, He wanted to meet me again the day after in order to give me the money back via Western Union „from his cousin in England“, who would send 350€, for him And me. In this case, I realised that it is a scam: They send you a check which is to „evaluated“ by Western Union. In the end, you get cash, but the back wants it back.

This one was special concerning the heavy psychological threat, which I at least reported to the police which has been investigating the case.

— Do not give money to strangers, don‘t start conversations, just walk by and do not take money by Western Union from strangers —

Scott Barrie says

March 14, 2023 at 11:00 pm

If I may share my story as it has happened to me only an hour ago and I’m safely back at my hotel:

I’m absolutely upset with this as normally I check out scams to countries that I visit but because I have been to Turkey (Antalya) the locals were very nice there so I never felt I needed to check.

So I am staying in a hotel on the west side of Istanbul where a lot of people coming over for medical appointments stay. I was walking around the hotel vicinity when a guy asked where I was from and I of course said England, then he started talking about where he is from.

He said there was a great bar with british people just down the road and did I want to have a drink, i initially said no thanks as I was looking for somewhere to eat. Not finding anything to local to eat i headed back to the hotel and there he was again, this time he was more convincing that we should go. I don’t even drink but thought we’ll I guess one drink would be fine…..Wrong !!

Same script as everyone else, two underdressed girls at the bar (Russian) and we ordered a beer each and he invited them over. 3 beers and 3 drinks each for the girls equated to TL 18000, I sunk in my seat trying to work that out in pounds and of course this guy was frogmarched to the cash machine first (now looking back he didn’t get any money out) then I was too. My card only let me take out TL4000 and I had about TL1000 in my pocket and I said that’s your lot !! He said come back inside and have a whiskey which I politely declined and legged it.

Like I said, this has happened just an hour ago from writing this and I’m absolutely beside myself. I still have 3 days here and I just feel I can’t leave the hotel in fear of more scams. Turkey, you have let me down and it’s people and I won’t return again.

Dennis says

March 7, 2023 at 2:53 am

I had the same experience in taksim square. I a guy approached me asking for a lighter and started conversation. He said he is a civil engineer and that he has a fiance. He speaks very fluent English so that he is also traveling alone just like me. We ended up in a club and met 2 russian girls in the club. Champagne was ordered for the girls twice. I ended up paying £900 which is supposed to be split by two of us. I felt so stupid for wanting to have a good company for the night. Be careful when traveling alone in Istanbul. Never again. I should have read this scam earlier.

Jackie says

February 25, 2023 at 10:23 am

Visited Istanbul few years ago and got scammed by a taxi driver. Took a taxi and he stopped below a dimly lighted bridge, telling us he is avoiding traffic and asked us to walk up instead. When paying, he did the note swap scam on us. First time, we figured it was our mistake. Second time, we were kind of shocked from the first time so we paid. He did it a third time, then we realized we were getting scammed. Exited the cab and slammed the door on him.

Fast forward last month.. arrived at the airport and took a cab down to the city. After a bad experience previously Decided to book though an app this time. When we arrived at the airport, we booked on the app. First few rides were cancelled by the drivers. Finally, a driver asked us to go to a certain area for get the cab. Did not realize that we were being followed by another individual behind. When we reached the taxi, the other individual blocked the taxi and refused to allow us load our luggage. Our taxi driver and that guy were arguing. He kept on insisting that we take an Airport Taxi and not use the App. He was polite but kept on blocking our path and stopping us from loading our luggage. I lost my cool and started screaming and threatening him.. he then backed off. Then our taxi driver started to small talk with us and suggested we take a faster way, and asked to be paid toll in cash only. Reached our destination, not only he collected toll cash X4 times normal rate (we searched at the hotel), he also charged us in the APP. Have since disputed the charges through the APP.

2/2 taxi experiences = scammed. Since, I refuse to take taxi in Istanbul. To me all are scammers.

March 5, 2023 at 12:48 am

I was scammed too out of $430. And the driver even didn’t show up when he was supposed to take me to the airport.

August 29, 2022 at 11:39 am

I’m not sure if I had the lets have a drink scam or not…

So was at Taksim Square, had an older (mid 50s) well dressed guy talks about the history of the monument, who was on it and stuff. We talk for a while about all kind of things, travel, family, sports, US politics… good conversation. He then suggests lets get a drink. I hadn’t read any of this thus far, so I said sure why not. He leads us to a bar, we get multiple drinks had good conversation, spent multiple hours. There were some obvious prostitutes around, but they never joined us nor made any attempt to. We did talk about some of the clubs and I told him that I wasn’t interested, how I read about them cheating tourists. The bill came, it was a reasonable, about 900 lira (~$50), I paid for it all. He then got offended, said I made him feel low, like he couldn’t afford it, but he has money. I suggested we should do this again. So we were planning to meet up again this evening.

Everything matches the scam perfectly except for the bill being correct.

Not sure if this guy was legit or not. Reading up, it matches pretty well with the setup, but I didn’t get scammed. Maybe its a setup for a bigger one?

September 1, 2022 at 7:33 pm

I would agree with you, you haven’t been scammed yet, but it could have been a setup for a bigger one. Thanks for sharing.

Bob Macadoo says

June 26, 2022 at 2:22 pm

Can you explain why places list prices in GR rather than TL? I feel like I got scammed today buying a doner wrap. The list said 150 GR and when I asked what GR was they said lira. I have bought similar wraps mostly for 40-70 lira.

June 26, 2022 at 2:30 pm

The GR in 150 GR means grams. That’s the amount of meat that will be in the wrap.

May 18, 2022 at 6:53 pm

The people in hoteles reception are very desperate for money. If they call a taxi, book a cruiser, excursion , diner or anything the will over charge you. Do your own research and get you own taxi. People are desperate for money especially in Istanbul. They will do anything for it. That the only thing I did not like the rest is a wonderful city

May 18, 2022 at 12:24 am

Another common scam we came across is restaurant staff in the streets offering you discounts and free starters or desserts and what not, then when the bill comes they have a service charge labelled as TEX for the same amount as the item they offered you for free. Another thing they can do is place items on the table which you assume are complimentary but aren’t, like small water bottles.

May 18, 2022 at 8:09 am

I’ve never heard of TEX so far, so thanks for sharing. Putting things like water, bread on the table that seem complementary but aren’t is not a typical Turkish style move I’m afraid. I’ve experienced this is other countries, too, unfortunately.

May 18, 2022 at 12:19 am

We had a weird one today in Alsaray metro station. We were trying to figure out how to buy a ticket for the metro to go to halic, but the machine was showing a higher price for the ticket than what the online guides were suggesting. This man approached us and offered to help us get tickets if we have him 45 liras each. We walked away from him to look for a kiosk or a help desk. We couldn’t find one. Then we tried to make sense of a different machine and selected English as the language and this machine showed 15 liras, we couldn’t tell if it was for a single or a return journey. Another man approached us and offered to get us tickets if we gave him 15 liras each, which after deliberating for a min, we did. He then tapped his card for each of us and let us through the gates and went on his way and we went onto the tram without any further issues. We knew he was scamming us for sure. We just didn’t know how. The machine showed 15 liras on it, and he charged us 15 liras. Does anyone know what was going on? Did he pay for a single ticket for us but took money for a double?

May 18, 2022 at 8:05 am

What probably happened is that the machine showed you the regular single ticket price (15 TL) instead of the discounted price when you use the anonymous Istanbul Kart, which is about 7,5 TL.

So, the person who suggested to help you, used his card to actually pay for your ride, but made minimum 7,5 TL per person because you paid him 15 and he was charged 7,5 or less.

Ben Wadsworth says

July 14, 2023 at 12:20 am

This sounds like a win win situation.

Khashayar says

April 30, 2022 at 8:56 am

We ate 2 soup in very very normal place and local Restaurant in Istanbul actually it was Water and a little bit sheep tripe in it . At the end i paid 70 TL and agin it happend in another Restaurant 2 pide and 2 Dürum about 135 TL

April 30, 2022 at 10:18 am

I can’t say anything of the quality of the soup of course, but why don’t you ask for the menu / price list before you order? If they don’t have one, move on to the next establishment.

February 21, 2022 at 1:10 am

I wish I have read this thread before today! I have just come back from a bar in Taksim area and my experience was horrible. I was walking alone around midnight. A man approached me and asked me in Turkish whether I have alighter. I replied No. Then he started speaking to me in English with so much details. He said that he is 52 years old, a civil engineer, married with 3 boys. He was explaining to me about his wife who prays and put Hijab, but he drinks and don’t practice religion. He asked me to offer me a drink, and it was my biggest mistake when I said yes.

He took me to a bar. I don’t drink Alcolol so he offered me a soft drink. Suddenly, two girls joined us. They ordered a few bottles of Champagne. There were many girls dancing around us. I tried to excuse my self but they insisted that I stay a little bit more. To put it short, I ended up with a bill of more than 12 thousand TL, which is about £670. I had no choice by to pay being surrounded with 5 well built guys. I regret the minute I started talking to this man. I hope no once else will get scammed.

February 21, 2022 at 8:14 pm

So sorry to hear that Karim.

April 13, 2022 at 3:52 am

i had the exactly same experience!

June 17, 2022 at 2:12 pm

Happened to me too. Surrounded by pretty girls ordering champagne etc. Came to the bill and they tried to get me to pay over £3000. I refused.

February 27, 2023 at 1:27 am

Same happened to me I started fighting the bastards I didn’t pay them a penny I wasn’t drinking or dancing start fighting they will get scared and let you go

Suzy Hall says

January 24, 2022 at 9:46 pm

I was walking during the day to get a taxi back to the Asian side. I was walking through Sultanahment and a man asked me where I was from and could he help me. I told him I was Scottish and looking to get a taxi. He said he’d show me his shop and phone me a taxi. I told him I wouldn’t be buying as I’d already bought things and just wanted to get back to my hotel.

He took me down a side street and we went past his shop. I asked him why he wasn’t stopping at shop for the taxi as he’d been on phone supposedly organising taxi to pick me up at shop. He said he was taking me to a private taxi where it would be “safe”. I was starting to feel incredibly unsafe. I looked back and saw a man following us, clearly videoing with his mobile phone. I looked back several times and the man was still following and videoing. I told the man who was taking me to the taxi we’re being followed but he dismissed it.

I felt extremely nervous and thankfully all of a sudden 2 girls appeared so I ran over to them and they spoke English. The man who was videoing ran down and flashed a card saying he was ‘police’ and was following to make sure this man didn’t take me to shops. None of us 3 girls saw the card correctly and he didn’t have police clothes on.

I walked back up the street with the 2 girls and they phoned me a taxi. The man and the supposed police man came up to us again and the supposed police man said I’m going to “punish him”. We thought it was all very strange and said it wasn’t necessary.

I’ve travelled solo so much throughout my life and never felt scared until today and this was broad daylight. I’ve absolutely no idea what was actually going to happen.

Moral of the story get your own taxi.

May 21, 2022 at 4:13 am

I’m so sorry. Two guys followed me and one ripped my phone out of my hand. I travelled a lot and was in much poorer countries but got never scammed the amount I got in turkey

December 26, 2021 at 4:41 pm

Hi, curious about something. Bumped into a croatian (not Turkish) guy in Istanbul and we spent the afternoon wandering and I ended up following him to a seedy club with girls and a 150euro bill each.

Was wondering if the Croatian was in on the scam or whether we both just walked into it? I’d be surprised because 1) he wasn’t so well dressed 2) his Turkish wasn’t good and 3) he seemed like he was naive and stumbled across the place. He said he was an electrician in Izmir and it was his last night before going home. This could all have been an act though.

I guess since the club were not that forceful and just made me pay the (annoyingly) very expensive bill, maybe we’d just walked into the scam thanks to my Croatian friend rather than him leading me there.

Just interested though if anyone has heard of the ‘let’s have a drink place being carried out by white guys, so eastern or even Western Europeans? Could be an extra level to watch out for. Thanks

December 27, 2021 at 12:35 pm

Thanks for sharing. It’s hard to say. Normally they don’t spend a whole afternoon just to get you into a bar.

January 28, 2022 at 10:51 am

Huh, that electric guy from Izmir… I had same/similar guy, though he claimed he was from Cyprus. I turned down his offer because I found it strange that he was so friendly right from the start. I also told him I don’t drink and he lost interest quickly.

March 23, 2021 at 8:52 pm

Be very careful in Taksim. Many pickpockets! As a rule i found most areas to be safe. If you are staying Sultan Ahmet area, do not pay for walking tours. Most places can be found by google map and i deffinitely recommend buying the travel card for the trams. Frequent and inexpensive. I like to travel to the smaller areas and wander round the back streets. The boats are also inexpensive. Some little back street stores where the locals go are amazing. Just as in Marmaris, be careful. I agree, don’t let anyone take you to their shop, their friends shop. Shop around, have an idea of prices, you can often get a cheap meal for a fraction of a price in a local restaurant. Simit with Nutella is a must!

March 4, 2020 at 10:09 am

This is so true. When I was in Istanbul, I exited a restaurant and a guy came up to me and said ‘thank you for coming to my restaurant’. I s/h known there and then. He then led me to his ‘new’ cafe. we had a drink and when the bill came, basically I lost about $700. When I tried to speak 5 tough guys showed up. Fortunately, I still had some money back at the hotel. Never again will I be so naive.

February 1, 2020 at 2:25 pm

A victim of a common scam in Istanbul – on 27th January 2020

Dear readers,

I would like to describe my experience of how I unfortunately became a victim of a common scam in Istanbul.

I was a tourist and stayed in Sultanahment, Istanbul, Turkey for 5 days. I was approached by a Turkish man on a Monday evening, who spoke exceptional English and Turkish. He appeared to be quite knowledgeable with regards to tourist locations and the history revolving such places. He was dressed in fashionable clothes. He offered to be my guide for around 1-2 hours showing me the major landmarks. As I had no particular plans that evening, I let him accompany me.

We soon arrived at a local cafe and had two cups of chai (tea), which I offered to pay for. At this point I recall the man looking into the contents of my wallet, possibly to assess how much money I had. I didn’t think much about it at the time. The man then bought a cheap loaf of bread. As the evening drew on, he suggested that we go to a bar for a quick drink. I didn’t want to be disrespectful, so I said I would join him only for a short while (in hindsight this was a major mistake on my part, I should have been more vigilant).

We arrived at a bar located in Taksim square, the entrance to the building was quite narrow, and it had a title “tattoos and piercings”, we went to the top floor (3rd floor). There was a bar and girls and mature women parading without much clothes on. The man “offered to buy me a drink”, and I initially declined. When he kept on insisting about a drink, I said a fruit juice would be good. He ordered a beer for himself. We were soon accompanied by a couple of girls along with a bottle of champagne. During this time the man leaves you with the impression that the drinks are entirely on him!

The champagne bottles kept on arriving (I don’t drink alcohol), so the champagne was consumed by the girls and the guy that brought me to the bar. At this point it looked very suspect, and I asked where the toilet was, as I really wanted to escape. I was told the toilet was out of order, (the toilets were on the ground floor), and I was told that I couldn’t leave until the bill arrived (again more alarm bells ringing).

The bill was brought and the amount was for 4, 400 Turkish lira, around over £500. I disputed the bill, and said to the owner of the bar (who was about 6’ 2”, and well built), that the man brought me here and offered to buy me a drink. At this the owner pushed the man who fell onto a comfy sofa cushion (it was obvious this was nothing but drama, a well scripted pantomime being played out). The owner then looked towards me as if hinting to do the same to me. There were many other staff around who were blocking my exit to the building. In order to prevent any form of further altercation, and possibly also prevent sustaining bruises at least to myself, I very reluctantly had to hand over the contents of my wallet. This was 300 Turkish lira and cash of £60, so in total about £100 cash (i.e. British Pounds).

Whilst they were counting the cash and security checking the £60 notes, I discreetly slipped my debit card into my pants and fortunately they didn’t get me to strip! Once they were satisfied the cash I had was legit, and once they gave up on looking for any debit/credit cards, only then was I allowed to leave the premises.

The morale of the story is, if a complete stranger approaches you in Turkey, please just kindly say “no thank you”, and promptly walk away. I promise you, it will save you at least £100 in cash!

P.S: the above was definitely a scam. After I excited the building I attempted to take photos of the man that lead me to the bar. He kept on blocking the camera on my phone. I managed to get a photo from the side of his face and took a photo of his back whilst he was briskly walking away from me. Essentially the man gets a big commission from the bar, for swindling unsuspecting tourists, hence this explains the modern trendy and expensive clothes he was wearing.

If you don’t look Turkish then you will be a prime target. These fraudsters prey on tourists.

February 2, 2020 at 1:32 pm

Thanks for sharing this, a perfect example of the “Let’s have a drink” scam in my article. I’m glad you could hide your credit card, if not the would have accompanied you to an ATM to withdraw the rest of the money.

Again, most Turks are very welcoming and hospitable, with the best of intentions to make your stay as nice as possible. Unfortunately, there are always a dozen of rotten apples who ruin it for everyone.

June 3, 2022 at 7:57 pm

I was walking in Istikal street. Man started speaking Turkish and I said sorry. He said aww you look Turkish … would you like me to come to my restaurant. I declined as I was tired. He insisted he showed me it and would like to give me a card to give to friends. Anyway, went up side street and he went into a shop and came out and put what looked like a packet of weed on my hand ( it was just spices) . I said I didn’t want but he wanted me to pay. He marched me to ATM and I lost about 500 quid. I was too scared to go to tourist police as a I suspected that they might be in on the scam . The guy was operating on a busy street.

June 3, 2022 at 11:33 pm

Sorry to hear about your adventure. But you should have gone to the police and report it, the police is never part of a scam, on the contrary. They try hard to protect tourists as good as they can.

marilen tomacruz says

January 7, 2020 at 5:47 pm

Me and my husband are traveling to istanbul this april for a week, Is Sultanamet the best area to stay at? Thank you.

January 8, 2020 at 10:08 pm

Hi Marilen,

Have you read this post on h ow to choose between Sultanahmet and Taksim ?

Hope this helps.

December 22, 2019 at 5:56 pm

Be careful of the fake money!! A taxi told me that if a money has a letter for example, C before the numbers its not for taxi and its only for shopping!! Lol what a BS!! And he told me that i need to give him 100 turkish lira so he can exchange the rest. If you give the money, in return he will give you fake copied money. And also this happen near Bosphorus cruise trip

December 23, 2019 at 4:12 pm

Thanks for sharing this Amir.

November 10, 2019 at 7:50 pm

I m now in Istanbul and I faced few of these scams I suggest For single tourist to be very careful before visiting any night club or bars . Group of people targeting and trying to steal money from single tourists … in fact I say , never go alone to any bars or nightclubs near Taksim.

October 29, 2019 at 12:23 am

Another type of approach they are doing is pretending to take selfie and asking for help to take the picture..introduce himself as a civil engineer, offerring you meals and he paid for it, then ask you to spend sometime with beer in the bar..come out with extra ordinary bill.

October 30, 2019 at 10:10 am

Thanks for sharing this.

Habib Mahdaoui says

July 19, 2019 at 7:21 am

A white man who bring you to a Bar (their Bar), and the bill is $120 a bottle! Because one of their girls set beside you and wa talking to you.. according to the boss, you were enjoying girl sitting beside you 😆😆😆 crazy people..

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How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Turkey 2023

How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Turkey? 2023

Research before you go, avoid street solicitation, bargaining techniques, try local cuisine.

If you plan to visit Turkey for a vacation, you may be excited about the beautiful landscapes, attractive beaches, and rich cultural heritage that the country has to offer. However, with dozens of tourist traps and scams waiting to catch unwary travelers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about where to start.

Fortunately, you can protect yourself from getting duped by following some straightforward tips. Firstly, it’s crucial to research the destination thoroughly, including customs, traditions, and landmarks, before embarking on your trip. This way, you would be well-informed about potential dangers and better equipped to handle eventualities. Secondly, use reputable tour operators who can offer valuable insights and alternative sightseeing areas that will provide a truly authentic experience.

Avoiding street solicitation is also essential to steer clear of tourist traps. It’s best to ignore street vendors offering irresistible deals that seem ‘too good to be true.’ Instead, learn bargaining skills and try to identify the average price range for different items. Additionally, you should venture off the beaten path and try local cuisine and shops away from popular areas.

In essence, by following these tips, you can avoid tourist traps and thoroughly enjoy your trip to Turkey. Explore the country, immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions, and have a memorable experience that will stay with you for years to come.

One of the most critical steps to avoid tourist traps in Turkey is to research extensively before embarking on your trip. You must learn about the customs, culture, and traditions of the locals to have a memorable experience without falling victim to any tourist scams.

Going to Turkey without any prior knowledge of what to expect can result in unpleasant surprises. For instance, you may find out that haggling is a common practice in Turkish markets and shops, so you need to learn how to bargain effectively.

Additionally, you should research the most popular tourist sites, such as the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar and Hagia Sophia, to learn about their history, opening hours, and entrance fees, so you can plan your itinerary accordingly.

You should also research the best travel times to visit Turkey and be aware of the local weather, transportation systems, and local traditions. By researching before your trip, you will be less likely to become a victim of scams and tourist traps and will instead have a more authentic experience in Turkey.

Use Trusted Tour Guides

If you want to avoid tourist traps when visiting Turkey, using a trusted tour guide is a must. By doing so, you will receive genuine guidance and insider information on the best sites to visit in the country.

When selecting a tour operator, be cautious, and thoroughly research their websites and reviews from previous customers. A great tour operator can provide personalized tours, taking you to hidden gems that the regular tourist may not know. Furthermore, they can help you avoid tourist traps that could put a damper on your trip.

Many tour operators have packaged tours, which can save you time and money. If you prefer going solo, a trusted operator will share tips and insights that help you explore the country safely and avoid any tourist scams.

It is essential to take your time and choose a tour operator that is transparent, so that you can make informed decisions that will help you enjoy your time in Turkey. Do not be afraid to ask questions, as reliable tour operators will be more than happy to answer them and give you peace of mind.

Street solicitation is a common problem in Turkey. It’s easy to get tempted by the amazing discounts and deals advertised by street vendors, but it’s important to remember not to engage with them. Many of these vendors will take you to tourist traps, where you will end up paying more than what you would have elsewhere.

The best way to avoid falling victim to street solicitation is to ignore them, politely decline their offers, and keep moving. If you’re not interested, don’t engage in conversation with them to avoid giving them the impression that you’re interested. Stick to exploring the country on your own terms, visit authentic stores or markets, and try to get lost in the backstreets with locals. If you must purchase something from the street, remember to bargain and identify the average price range for various things to avoid getting overcharged.

By avoiding street solicitation, you will not only prevent getting ripped off but also have a smoother, more enjoyable trip with fewer hassles. Remember to stay alert when exploring the city and remaining vigilant at all times, so you don’t get caught up in the tourist traps.

If there is one thing you must learn before visiting Turkey, it’s bargaining skills! Bargaining is a way of life here. Most shops and vendors expect you to haggle over prices, and if you don’t, you will likely be charged more than the item’s actual value. With a little practice, you’ll soon be able to get a good deal and avoid getting ripped off.

Before you start bargaining, do your research and identify the average price range for the products you’re interested in buying. This information will help you understand what is reasonable to pay and avoid getting overcharged.

Remember to start bargaining at a reasonable price, a good rule of thumb is to start with half the vendor’s initial quote and gradually work your way up to your desired price. Another bargaining tip is to walk away if the vendor is not willing to sell the item at a reasonable price. If they really want to make a sale, they will likely call you back with a better offer.

One thing to keep in mind is that bargaining should be done with respect. It’s a cultural practice, and vendors take it seriously. Therefore, try to maintain a friendly and polite attitude, and you will likely be rewarded with a good deal and perhaps even a new friend.

By mastering bargaining techniques and understanding price ranges, you will make the most of your shopping experience in Turkey and avoid being overcharged.

Go Off The Beaten Path

If you want to experience the real Turkey, go off the beaten path. While staying within the main tourist areas might seem tempting, you will only be exposed to a fraction of what Turkey has to offer. If you want to avoid being overcharged, skip the tours that focus on specific tourist sites and take the time to explore the backstreets with locals. You’ll be surprised at how friendly the locals are and how willing they are to help. You might even discover some hidden gems that you won’t find in any tourist guidebooks.

If you want to truly immerse yourself in Turkish culture, you need to venture beyond the usual tourist hotspots. Take the time to discover the lesser-known parts of Turkey, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the country’s natural beauty, architecture, and history. To help you with this, try to learn about the hidden gems of Turkey before you arrive. Some ideas include discovering the ancient ruins of Ephesus or exploring the beautiful Black Sea coast.

Exploring off the beaten path also provides opportunities to connect with locals, who are friendly, hospitable, and eager to share their culture. Try asking recommendations from the locals on where to eat, drink or shop. By doing this, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the country, and as a bonus, you may even save some money.

If you’re a foodie, then you simply must try the local cuisine in Turkey. Turkish cuisine is a blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. To get the best culinary experience, you need to go to the places where the locals eat. This means avoiding tourist hotspots and sampling authentic Turkish street food.

Some of the popular street foods to try include doner kebab , balik ekmek , lahmacun , and borek . Doner kebab is a meaty dish made from chicken or lamb meat that is cooked on a vertical spit and then shaved off onto a pita bread. Balik ekmek is a traditional Istanbul sandwich made from grilled fish, tomatoes, lettuce, and onions. Lahmacun is a thin and crispy Turkish pizza that is topped with minced meat, onions, and tomatoes. Borek is a flaky pastry that is filled with feta cheese, spinach, or minced meat.

When it comes to drinks, you cannot miss ayran , a traditional yoghurt drink that goes perfectly with spicy Turkish food. You can also try raki , which is the national drink of Turkey and is an anise-flavored alcoholic beverage that is often referred to as “lion’s milk.”

If you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal, opt for a local restaurant that is popular with the locals. Be sure to try meze , a selection of small dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends. Some of the popular meze dishes include hummus, stuffed vine leaves, fried calamari, and grilled halloumi cheese.

In conclusion, trying the local cuisine is one of the highlights of any trip to Turkey. By avoiding tourist hotspots and opting for street food and local restaurants, you can enjoy an authentic culinary experience that you won’t forget for years to come.

If shopping is your thing, then Turkey has plenty to offer, but you need to be careful not to fall into tourist shop traps. Instead, aim to support local businesses by shopping from their establishments, where you can find unique items that you won’t find anywhere else.

Look for local markets where you can find handmade crafts, traditional textiles, and other souvenirs that are not only authentic but also reasonably priced. This is a great way to get a feel of the local culture and traditions. You can also haggle for better prices, which is perfectly acceptable in Turkish markets.

Shopping at local businesses not only supports the local economy but also helps the artisans and craftsmen who produce the items. It is also an excellent way to meet locals and get recommendations on other places to visit in Turkey.

• Look for local markets and small shops instead of tourist hotspots.
• Buy handmade crafts, traditional textiles and other souvenirs that are unique and authentic.
• Remember to haggle for better prices, it’s a part of Turkish culture.
• Support local businesses and help the artisans and craftsmen who produce the items.

By shopping locally, you can avoid being ripped off at tourist traps and get a genuine sense of Turkish culture and traditions. So, next time you are in Turkey, ditch the tourist shops, and shop local for an authentic shopping experience.

After reading this guide, you now have the tools necessary to enjoy your trip to Turkey without falling into any tourist traps. Remember to research your destination, use trusted tour operators, avoid street solicitation, and master bargaining techniques. Furthermore, venture off the beaten path and try eating local cuisine and shopping from local businesses to have an authentic experience.

Don’t be afraid to immerse yourself in Turkish culture and explore the lesser-known areas of the country, as they can offer some of the most memorable experiences. By following these tips, your trip to Turkey is bound to be an incredible adventure that you’ll never forget.

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Watch Out! Don’t Fall for These Sneaky Tourist Scams While on Vacation

Traveling is an exciting experience but can also be a minefield of tourist scams and traps. Dishonest individuals target tourists, taking advantage of their unfamiliarity with local customs and surroundings to scam them of their money or belongings.

You should be aware of the common tourist scams and traps, from fake tour guides to overpriced restaurants, pickpockets, and fake ticket sellers. Taking a few precautions and keeping an eye out for possible tourist traps and scams can help ensure that your travels are safe and enjoyable.

One of the most common tourist scams around the world is taxi fraud. Some taxi drivers may try to scam you by taking a longer route to your destination, inflating the fare, or even driving you to a different place.

Take precautions to avoid this type of fraud. One way is to negotiate the price upfront with the driver or use a reputable taxi company. Researching ahead of time and learning about the average fare in the area can also help you avoid getting overcharged. When you are in a taxi, it is a good idea to use GPS navigation to ensure that the driver takes the most direct route.

Fake Ticket Sellers

When you’re traveling, it’s common to want to visit  popular tourist attractions . Unfortunately, scammers often exploit this desire by offering discounted tickets to these attractions. While it may be tempting to save some money, it’s crucial to be cautious of such offers, as these tickets may be fake.

The smart option is purchasing tickets directly from the attraction’s website or a licensed vendor. If you buy tickets from a third party, ensure the vendor is reputable. Be wary of any vendor selling tickets at a significantly discounted price, and be bold and ask questions to ensure you’re getting what you paid for.

Street Vendors

Street vendors can be a common sight in many tourist areas worldwide, offering a range of souvenirs, clothing, and other goods. While many vendors are honest and legitimate, some will take advantage of tourists by overcharging or selling counterfeit items.

It’s essential to take precautions when shopping with street vendors. The best way to ensure you’re paying enough is by bargaining. Haggling over the price is common in many cultures, and vendors often expect it.

Pickpockets

Pickpockets often target tourists, particularly in crowded markets, public transportation, and tourist attractions. Keeping your belongings secured and staying alert is essential to avoid falling victim to pickpockets.

Make sure to carry only what you need and leave any valuables, such as expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash, in a secure location, such as a hotel safe.

When you’re out and about, keep your belongings close to your body, such as in a secure backpack or a cross-body bag that can be worn in front of you. Avoid carrying your wallet or phone in your back pocket, as it’s easier for pickpockets to access.

Fake Police Officers

One of the most alarming tourist scams is when scammers pose as police officers to gain access to your personal information and belongings. These scammers may wear fake police uniforms, have fake badges, or carry phony identification. They may approach you in a public area or on the street, demanding to see your passport or other identification. Once they have your passport or identification, they may use it for identity theft or demand a bribe to give it back to you. 

One way to verify a police officer’s identity is to ask for their badge number and call the local police station to confirm their identity. You can also ask to see their identification and take a photo with your phone, but be careful not to appear aggressive or suspicious. If the person claiming to be a police officer refuses to give their badge number or identification, this could be a red flag that they are not genuine.

Free Item Scams

A typical tourist scam in busy tourist areas is when someone offers you a free item, such as a flower or bracelet. However, after accepting the item, the person may demand payment or guilt you into donating money to their cause. This is often done using high-pressure tactics, such as saying that the donation is for a charity or a religious institution. The person may also become aggressive or threatening if you refuse to pay or donate.

You should be wary of anyone approaching you with a seemingly free item. While it’s understandable to be interested in interacting with locals or experiencing local customs, it’s essential to be cautious when dealing with strangers. If someone offers you something for free, it’s a good idea to decline and move on politely.

ATM Skimming

One of the most insidious tourist scams is using  skimming devices  on ATMs. Scammers may install small devices on the ATM to read your credit card information and steal your money. These devices can be hard to spot, but there are ways to protect yourself from falling victim to this scam.

It’s vital to use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas. Scammers are more likely to target ATMs in quiet, isolated areas where they can install their skimming devices without being detected. ATMs located in crowded areas or inside buildings with security guards are less likely to be targeted by scammers.

In addition, it’s important to cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Skimming devices may also include small cameras that can record your PIN as you enter it. Covering the keypad with your hand can prevent scammers from recording your PIN.

Fake Tour Guides

Another tourist trap travelers need to be cautious of is individuals who offer to guide them to popular attractions, especially if they need to wear official tour guide identification. These individuals may overcharge you or even lead you to a dangerous area.

These individuals often approach you on the street or near popular tourist spots. They may offer to show you around the area or take you to a specific attraction, claiming to know a shortcut or claiming that the attraction is closed due to construction or other issues. While some of these individuals may be well-intentioned, many others look to exploit unsuspecting tourists.

To avoid falling prey to fake tour guide scams, it’s best to use a reputable tour company or ask the hotel for a recommendation.

Hotel Scams

One common phone scam involves scammers calling hotel rooms and posing as hotel staff. They may ask for your credit card information, claiming that there is a problem with your reservation or that there has been a mistake with your payment. They may also ask for personal data like your address or passport details, claiming it’s for verification purposes.

Always verify the caller’s identity before giving out personal or financial information. Hang up the phone and call the hotel reception desk directly to confirm the validity of the call. Most hotels would never ask for personal or financial information over the phone and will be able to verify whether the call is genuine.

Another common hotel scam involves fake restaurant menus. Scammers may create fake menus, leave them in your hotel room, or slide them under the door. When you call to place an order, they steal your credit card number and never deliver your food. It’s a good idea to look up the restaurant to ensure it is legit.

Fake Beggars

While it’s natural to want to help those in need, some scammers will use this desire to their advantage. In some tourist areas, individuals may pose as beggars or use their children to gain sympathy and solicit money from unsuspecting tourists. They may use different tactics, such as pretending to be disabled, homeless, or needing medical assistance.

Be cautious when approached by someone on the street, especially those who seem overly persistent or aggressive. While some may genuinely need help, others may be scammers looking to exploit tourists’ generosity. It’s best to use your discretion when deciding whether to give money to someone on the street.

Scammers may pose as representatives of a charity or nonprofit organization and ask for donations.

Fake Attractions  

Scammers may use various tactics to create fake attractions or events that lure tourists in with the promise of a unique experience or adventure. However, these fake attractions or events can be a waste of time or, worse, dangerous. They may involve hidden fees, inadequate facilities, or other risks that could put  your safety  at risk.

Do your research before visiting any attraction or event. Check online reviews and ratings from previous visitors to understand what you might expect. If an attraction or event has a lot of negative feedback or is not well-known, it’s best to avoid it.

“Found” Items

Tourists may encounter a common scam when someone approaches them and claims to have found a valuable item, such as a camera, wallet, or phone. The scammer will offer to sell the item to the tourist at a discounted price. The scammer may claim that someone else lost or abandoned the item and that they are simply looking to make a quick sale.

It’s essential to be cautious of buying anything not previously yours, especially when the circumstances surrounding the sale seem suspicious. The item could be stolen property, and purchasing it could put you at risk of legal trouble or financial loss. If someone approaches you with an offer, you should decline politely and walk away.

Misleading Directions

Tourists should be aware of scammers who give incorrect or misleading directions to steer them toward a specific shop or attraction. The scammer may work in cahoots with the shop owner or receive a commission for bringing tourists to a particular place.

Always verify directions with a map or GPS before following them. It’s good to research the area beforehand to have a general sense of where you’re going and what you’re looking for.

Tourist Traps and Scams

Falling victim to tourist traps and scams can be a frustrating and costly experience for travelers. While avoiding these traps altogether is impossible, being aware of common scams and taking steps to protect yourself can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. By staying alert, researching, and trusting your instincts, you can help reduce the risk of falling prey to scams and enjoy your travels.

This article Watch Out! Don’t Fall for These Sneaky Tourist Scams originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Photo Credit: [@Jandruk/DepositPhotos]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

Home News 9 Tips to Watch Out for 2024 Istanbul Tourist Scams

9 Tips to Watch Out for 2024 Istanbul Tourist Scams

Explore Istanbul confidently by avoiding common tourist scams . In this vibrant city of 15 million, be cautious of scams like missing change and scenic taxi routes. Stay incident-free by staying aware, especially in tourist-packed areas like Sultanahmet and Taksim.

Beware of Deceptive Shoe Cleaning in Istanbul

In the bustling streets of Istanbul, a seemingly helpful encounter can turn into a scam. Picture this: an older man drops his cleaning brush, you kindly alert him, and he offers to clean your shoes in gratitude. However, what appears as a gesture of thanks quickly transforms into a scheme as he demands payment for the unexpected service. Don't be fooled by this classic Istanbul scam; stay vigilant while exploring the city's historic streets."

A Common Istanbul Tourist Trap - The Carpet Sales Ploy 

Among Istanbul's bountiful sights, visitors may encounter eager locals hoping to demonstrate Turkish hospitality through rather aggressive hospitality. Common scam involves:

• Diversion and Deception

These men often approach tourists in tourist areas, appearing friendly and helpful. They may offer unsolicited advice or directions, ultimately aiming to steer tourists towards their " family-run" carpet shop.

• Coercion through Hospitality

Once inside the shop, tourists are offered complimentary tea, creating a sense of obligation and hospitality. This hospitality is then exploited as tourists are pressured into viewing expensive carpets and subjected to high-pressure sales tactics.

• Difficulty in Refusal

Tourists often feel obligated to comply with the shopkeeper's requests due to cultural norms and the expectation of reciprocating hospitality. This makes it difficult for them to refuse viewing the carpets, even if they are uninterested. The high-pressure sales tactics then exploit this hesitancy to pressure them into making a purchase.

• Recognizing the Trap

While many locals are genuinely friendly and helpful towards tourists, it is important to be cautious of those who approach with unsolicited offers and promises of shortcuts. These individuals might be trying to lure tourists into scams like the carpet sales ploy.

• Avoiding the Trap

Tourists can protect themselves from this scam by being firm and polite but assertive in declining unwanted offers and detours. Maintaining spatial awareness and staying on intended routes helps them avoid being led into unfamiliar situations.

Avoiding Istanbul Taxi Fare Hiking Tactics 

Hailing taxis in Istanbul often elicits two-sided experiences where honest drivers coexist alongside petty opportunists seeking to exploit tourists through shady overcharging ploys. Common trick involves:

• Awareness of Fare Manipulation

While many taxi drivers in Istanbul are honest and reliable, some may attempt to overcharge tourists through various tactics. These tactics can include taking longer routes, claiming fake road closures, or tampering with metres.

• Prior Preparation

Before hailing a taxi, it's important to research the standard fare for your intended destination. This can be done by consulting with hotel concierge or locals. Once you have this information, proactively tell the driver what you expect to pay , making them aware that you are aware of the standard fare.

• Identifying Overcharging Tactics

If the driver initially agrees to the standard fare, pay close attention to the route they take. If they start to detour or claim that there is a road closure, be suspicious. In most cases, these claims are false, especially when it comes to the Galata Bridge which rarely closes.

• Confronting Overcharging

If you suspect that you are being overcharged, don't be afraid to speak up. Calmly point out to the driver that you are aware of the correct fare and that you expect them to charge you accordingly. If the driver refuses to comply, you have the right to refuse to pay the inflated fare and even get out of the taxi and find another one.

• Collective Action for Market Correction

Tourists who are aware of the common tricks used by scammers and who are willing to confront them can help to improve the overall experience for everyone by encouraging market self-correction. This can be done by reporting incidents to authorities, leaving negative reviews online, and sharing their experiences with other travellers.

Avoiding Istanbul's Notorious Nightlife Tourist Traps

Explore Istanbul's authentic local scene by seeking recommendations from residents , steering clear of crowded tourist hotspots, and opting for hidden gems off the beaten path to avoid the city's notorious nightlife tourist traps.

• Beware of Overly Eager Hosts

Tourists seeking nightlife experiences may be approached by individuals claiming to offer exclusive access to parties and clubs.These individuals may appear excessively friendly and eager to help, but their true motive is often financial gain.

• Price Deception

Once inside a club, these individuals may pressure tourists into ordering multiple rounds of drinks without disclosing the true cost. Tourists may become intoxicated before realising the exorbitant prices of their drinks, leading to a shocking final bill.

• Abandonment and Intimidation

When confronted about the inflated bill, the individuals may quickly disappear, leaving the tourist alone with the bill and facing pressure from staff to pay. This can leave tourists feeling vulnerable and intimidated, unsure how to proceed.

• Choosing Safer Options

While Istanbul offers a vibrant and safe nightlife scene, it's important for tourists to exercise caution. Instead of relying on unsolicited offers, choose reputable venues frequented by locals. Be wary of situations where language barriers or cultural differences make it difficult to understand pricing or intentions.

• Trust Your Instincts

If an encounter feels too good to be true or pushes you outside your comfort zone, trust your instincts and politely decline. Don't be afraid to walk away from situations that feel suspicious or unsafe.

Outsmarting Istanbul Eateries' Sly Overcharging Tactics

Beyond magical views and sumptuous dishes enthralling diners, Istanbul's vibrant restaurant scene harbours petty opportunists leveraging sly tricks to overcharge distracted patrons. Frequent plot involves:

• Distracting Show and Hospitality

While enjoying live entertainment and Turkish hospitality, diners may be more distracted and less likely to pay close attention to their bills and change. This creates an opportunity for unscrupulous waiters to pocket extra money by confusing customers with change calculations.

• Change Confusion and Intimidation

When paying with a large bill for a small meal, servers may intentionally miscalculate the change, pocketing the difference and claiming they provided the correct amount. Tourists, feeling intimidated by the language barrier and cultural context, may hesitate to challenge the waiter's claims and end up paying more than they agreed upon.

• Precautionary Measures

To avoid being overcharged, tourists should always verify their change immediately upon receiving it, regardless of the ongoing entertainment or staff interactions . If they suspect they have been shortchanged, they should politely clarify the discrepancy and request verification through receipts or by speaking to a manager. Alternatively, tourists can preempt any confusion by tendering exact cash amounts or using card payments to cover the fixed meal cost without needing change.

• Trust Numbers, Not Words

Even in a captivating cultural atmosphere, it's crucial to prioritise clear financial transactions. Tourists should rely on concrete numbers displayed on receipts rather than trusting verbal assurances from waiters. By maintaining vigilance and questioning discrepancies, they can prevent unscrupulous individuals from imposing unauthorised prices.

• Ethical Practices and Tourist Responsibility

While overcharging scams exist, it's important to remember that most Istanbul restaurants operate ethically and uphold fair business practices. However, tourists have a responsibility to be aware of potential scams and take precautions to protect themselves from being overcharged. By being vigilant and proactive, they can contribute to a fairer and more transparent dining experience for everyone.

Beware of the Simit Scam: Istanbul's Theatrical Street Trick

As you wander through Istanbul's charming streets, the irresistible aroma of simit, Turkey's sesame bread, fills the air. However, don't be swayed by the following tricks:

Tourists are lured in by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked simit, a popular Turkish sesame bread . As they approach the vendor, they witness a dramatic scene: the vendor pretends to fall and injure themselves.

• Exploiting Sympathy

The staged injury is intended to evoke sympathy and generosity from onlookers. The vendor expects passersby to offer help, often in the form of money.

This elaborate act is not a genuine cry for help, but a calculated scam designed to trick tourists into parting with their money . The vendor relies on the human instinct to aid those in need, regardless of the situation's legitimacy.

• Resisting the Urge

It's crucial to resist the urge to offer financial assistance in this staged scenario. While helping those in genuine need is commendable, this situation is designed to exploit the kindness of tourists.

• Distinguishing Real Need

Not all situations requiring assistance are scams. Tourists should be able to discern genuine hardship from manipulative tactics like the Simit Scam . Observing the context and seeking additional information can help distinguish between legitimate and staged scenarios.

• Choosing Scepticism

When encountering such theatrical acts, prioritise caution over immediate emotional response. Maintaining a healthy dose of scepticism and avoiding spontaneous generosity can help tourists avoid being scammed . Opting for scepticism instead of simit ensures they don't fall victim to this well-worn trick.

Watch Out for Unexpected Charges in Istanbul

In the vibrant city of Istanbul, a prevalent scam involves adding items to your bill that you presumed were complimentary. 

Be cautious when anything arrives at your table that you didn't individually order , as it might come with a significant cost. While meze is typically complimentary, it's not a guarantee in every restaurant, so it's advisable to inquire. 

Even at ocakbasi, a traditional Turkish grill restaurant, seemingly free items like water may end up on your bill. The same applies to bars, where a bowl of nuts accompanying your drinks may not be as complimentary as it appears. 

Always scrutinise your bill carefully upon its arrival, questioning any discrepancies to avoid falling victim to this deceptive practice.

Beware of the Police Officer Impersonation Scam in Turkey

Picture this: you're going about your day when someone, claiming to be a police officer, suddenly appears and demands to inspect your passport and wallet. Hold on tight! Legitimate law enforcement isn't interested in your cash. 

Surrender your belongings, and you risk losing your money or witnessing the imposter sprint away. Remember this crucial rule while travelling: your wallet stays with you, no exceptions.

For identification purposes, a photocopy of your passport should suffice when dealing with a genuine law enforcement officer. 

If you encounter a suspicious "officer" demanding your possessions, be cautious. The only running you should be doing is through proper verification channels. Stay vigilant, keep your wits about you, and safeguard your wallet to steer clear of this impersonation con.

Beware of the Drink Deception in Turkey

Let's delve into a deceptive tactic circulating in Turkey, particularly in popular tourist areas. 

• Counterfeit Alcohol

This statement highlights the potential danger of counterfeit alcohol in some Turkish bars , particularly those struggling financially. Counterfeit alcohol can contain harmful substances posing health risks to consumers.

• Tasting Off

This emphasises the importance of trusting your senses. Any drink that tastes strange, especially if it deviates significantly from what you expect, should be sent back immediately. Dismissing it as "local flavour" could lead to consuming harmful counterfeit alcohol.

• Warnings and Reputation

Tourists should be wary of bars with negative reputations circulating among locals or fellow travellers. These warnings often indicate potential scams, including serving counterfeit or diluted drinks.

• Watered-Down Drinks

This point uses an analogy to illustrate how some bars dilute higher-priced drinks like whiskey . This means tourists pay for a full drink but receive a significantly weaker one, essentially getting ripped off.

• Detecting and Addressing the Scam

This encourages tourists to be proactive in detecting watered-down drinks. If they suspect dilution, they should politely confront the server, explain their concern, and demand the full-strength drink they paid for.

• Refusal and Alternatives

This metaphorical statement emphasises the importance of standing up for yourself and not accepting subpar products. Tourists should not feel pressured to accept diluted drinks or scams. They have the right to refuse such offerings and seek alternative establishments with better practices.

What is the first Pesky Istanbul tourist scam to watch out for in 2024?

The "Great Shoe Cleaning Scam," where a seemingly grateful man offers to clean your shoes and then charges you for the service.

How can tourists avoid falling victim to the Simit Scam in Istanbul?

Stay cautious of the theatrical performance involving a bread-seller's staged fall, designed to evoke sympathy and solicit money. Keep walking and resist the urge to be a good Samaritan in this orchestrated act.

What is a common scam involving unexpected charges in Istanbul, and how can tourists protect themselves?

The scam involves items being added to your bill that you assumed were complimentary. To avoid this, scrutinise your bill carefully upon arrival, questioning any discrepancies, and be cautious when anything arrives at your table that you didn't individually order.

Explain the "Officer" Impersonator Ruse and how tourists can protect themselves.

The scam involves someone claiming to be a police officer, demanding to see your passport and wallet. To protect yourself, remember that genuine law enforcement officers do not seek to inspect your cash. Keep your wallet with you, and verify the identity of any dubious "officer."

What is the Booze Bamboozle, and how can tourists avoid falling victim to it?

The Booze Bamboozle involves bars in Turkey serving fake alcohol or watered-down drinks. Tourists can protect themselves by being attentive to the taste of their drinks, sending back suspicious concoctions, and heeding warnings about specific establishments circulating in the rumour mill.

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• Tips for travellers

Tourist Traps In Istanbul

• On 10/10/2020
• In Tips for travellers
• Tags: istanbul

What are the traps in Istanbul?

Because of its opulent cultural heritage and accessibility, Istanbul is a very popular touristic target especially with the development of the airline industry. The number of tourists that visit Istanbul is annually increasing, when the pandemic ends 15 million people, which is equal to the population of the city, are expected to travel to Istanbul . Turkish people are known to be quite hospitable however like everywhere there are ones who try to take advantage and line their own pockets. There are some ways that the tourists are easily trapped, awareness of these acts will help you not to experience any inconvenience during your visit to Istanbul .

Common Tourist Traps in Istanbul

If you are obviously a tourist by your appeareance, a shoeshiner guy who does not shine shoes to make a living but is just scamming, drops his brush on purpose when he is sure that you see him dropping, however, this is just a traps in Istanbul. You think that the poor guy will lose his business without his brush and try to help him by either giving him notice or handing him his brush.

He apparently becomes appreciated and wants to shine your shoes in return. He insists even that you do not want him to, he does not leave you till you are the victim . You think that he shines your shoes as a favor to your gesture but in the end, he asks a remarkable amount for his service and becomes aggressive if you refuse to pay him the amount. So, the right thing that you have to do when you see a shoeshiner in front of you is just to ignore it.

Taxi Drivers

The taxi drivers in Istanbul are mostly honest however there are some drivers that use to hang out by the touristy spots in order to defraud tourists. They always take the longest way , sometimes they even drive you around to take you to your destination .

There is also a common scam used by these drivers. If you hand him a banknote they take it then change it with a 5 lira note and insist that you gave him that one. This is the main trick, does not matter which currency you hand to the driver. The other thing is that you have to be careful about checking the approximate amount before you get a cab and to be sure that the taxi belongs to a station but is not independent.

Con Artists traps in Istanbul

These men have two major spots to waylay, the busiest tourist attractions like Sultanahmet or Taksim neighborhoods. The approach mainly differs regarding the time of the day.

In the daytime mostly in the old city , you do not have to ask anything or get in a conversation, when they see you looking for a thing or find your way they come up to you offering help and they are always eager to help you in a very polite way. Then the conversation gets long and closer, in the end, they offer you a drink or you find yourself being guided by him. On the way, he always has a shopkeeper friend or relative and you stop by to have a cup of tea at that store. You generally end up spending a fortune at the end of this day as the setup is beyond professional.

In the evenings the target is single men who are looking for a nice atmosphere to have drinks and the spot is mostly Taksim. When he sees a desperate man , by creating a chance to open up a conversation, they try to take you to a pub/bar where he goes often and you may enjoy the ambiance. He is always good-looking in chic clothes and quite knowledgeable speaking different languages fluently .

When you are ok to go, he takes you to some dark, cheesy place where women wear revealing clothes and do not hesitate to join you in ordering drinks. Then the acts and the conversation become weird and the con man somehow leaves you alone with these women. In the end, when you ask for the bill to get out, an extraordinary amount is asked from you.

The staff at the bar becomes very impolite if you are not willing to pay and it usually ends up drawing money from an ATM machine with the bodyguards of the bar. You just have to ignore these men or do not get involved in a conversation even you think that the man is just trying to help you.

Not only related to the scams above but you should always watch yourself when touring another country as some surprising inconvenient moments you may encounter. A guided experience will help you worry less about these incidents and we are always available to assist you regarding all your needs traveling to Turkey.

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Beyond the Tourist Traps: Discovering Hidden Places in Turkey That are Worth Visiting

Are you tired of following the crowd and visiting tourist-packed spots in Turkey? It’s time to step off the beaten path and explore hidden gems that are worth discovering! From quaint villages tucked away on the countryside to breathtaking landscapes few travelers have seen, this guide will take you on a journey beyond the typical attractions. Get ready for an adventure as we uncover some of Turkey’s most captivating hidden places waiting to be explored.

Background on Turkey

Turks are known for their hospitality, and Turkey is a big country with much to offer visitors. It’s home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, as well as several important archaeological sites. Here are three reasons you should consider exploring Turkey beyond the tourist traps:

1. Its culture is rich and varied Turkey has a long and proud history, and its culture is reflected in the country’s many different traditions. You’ll find traditional Turkish architecture, delicious food, lively nightlife, and much more in Turkey.

2. The scenery is bizarre and beautiful Take a trip to one of Turkey’s popular tourist destinations like Bodrum or Antalya, and you’ll be blown away by the bizarre beauty of the country’s highlands and coastline. The climate is generally mild year-round, making it ideal for exploring by bike or foot.

3. It’s affordable Although travel costs can add up quickly if you’re exploring on your own, they’re relatively affordable in Turkey relative to other nearby countries. Plus, many of Turkey’s top attractions are located within easy reach of Istanbul – one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities.

What is unique about Turkey?

Turkey is a land of many different faces, both rural and urban. While much of the country is dominated by bustling markets and bustling tourist areas, there are also some truly hidden gems awaiting those who take the time to explore. From charming small villages to stunning coastline resorts, Turkey has something for everyone.

The Cost of Travel in Turkey

visiting hidden and off-the-beaten-path places in Turkey can be rewarding, affordable and fun. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your travels:

1) Start by narrowing down your destination. While there are countless incredible sights and places to explore in Turkey, don’t overload yourself with choice. Save some spots for later if money is an issue.

2) Use public transportation whenever possible. Legit buses, trains, ferries and taxis all cost relatively low prices across Turkey, making it easy to cover a lot of ground without breaking the bank.

3) Negotiate: Prices in tourist traps can skyrocket quickly, so ask friends or locals for advice before settling on a price for something you’re interested in sightseeing (like monuments or ancient ruins). Many times, people will be more than happy to lower their asking price for you.

4) Consider visiting during the off season: June through September tend to be the least busy months, giving you more flexibility when it comes to budgeting. Plus – suspensefully – temperatures tend to be milder during these months!

Planning Your Trip to Turkey

The stunning beauty of Turkey has drawn visitors from all over the world for centuries. Its crisp Mediterranean climate and diverse landscape are a major draw, but it’s also home to history, culture, and food that must be experienced to be appreciated. What follows is a primer on some hidden places in Turkey that are well worth exploring if you’re looking for something more than just tourist traps.

Hidden Places in Turkey Worth Visiting

When it comes to exploring Turkey, tourists are often drawn to the major tourist destinations like Ephesus, Istanbul, Antalya and Bursa. However, there are other places within Turkey that are just as worth visiting and deserve a trip if you’re looking for something unique and interesting.

Here are three hidden places in Turkey that are worth visiting:

1. Göreme National Park – Located in the highlands of central Anatolia, Göreme National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. The park is home to spectacular cave churches dating back to the 4th century AD.

2. Ürgüp – Ürgüp is another popular tourist destination in central Anatolia. The town is famed for its impressive ruins of an ancient city built by the Hittites. Ürgüp was also the site of a famous battle between the Romans and the Persians in 363 BC.

3. Nevşehir Province – Nevşehir Province is located in central Turkey and contains some beautiful countryside including Volcan Değirmenli, a dormant volcano that can be reached on foot or by car. The province also has some historical sites including remains of an ancient capital city called Hattusa and a necropolis dating back to 3000 BC.

Turkey is a country loaded with tourist attractions, but it’s also home to some amazing hidden gems that are well worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or want to find out about the culture and history of Turkey in an interesting and engaging way, these places will fascinate you. So whether you’re planning your next vacation or just curious about where Turkey is headed, take a look at our list of recommended destinations below.

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HIDDEN TREASURES: 25 TURKISH VILLAGES THAT ARE OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Istanbul is one of Turkey’s most visited destinations, attracting over 13 million tourists a year. Yet, you’ll be missing out if you confine your travels to Turkey around the well-known destination tourist stops.

Turkey is awash with quaint places that showcase Turkish culture at it’s best. If you want to experience the country at it’s best; put these little-known Turkish villages and towns on the to-do list for your travels.

1. Akyaka, Mugla

Take it slow in the beautiful Bohemian destination of Akyaka. Here you can lounge alongside the Azmak river enjoying a late breakfast with ducks and geese to keep you amused. You can get to know the locals during a friendly game of backgammon or try a taste of local cuisine at the neighborhood markets.

Beautifully preserved Ottoman-style houses abound and the gorgeous Blue Flag beach offers shallow calm waters. The nearby forest begs exploration. Other activities include boat trips to Cleopatra Island, walking along the riverside or eating fresh seafood at one of the local cafes.

2. Adrasan, Antalya

Another gorgeous Blue Flag beach destination, Adrasan has maintained its quiet atmosphere despite its obvious attractions.

The beach stretches for over a mile along the front of the town offering wonderful opportunities for watersports. Scuba diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, banana boat rides, parasailing, and boat trips to the sheltered coves of Sazak, Ceneviz, and Suluada are the most popular options.

Nearby you find the ruined Roman city of Olympos, the Adrasan Gelidonia Lighthouse, and the mysterious Yanartas flames.

3. Alacati, Izmir

If you crave a true taste of traditional Turkish Mediterranean seaside living, Alacati will not disappoint. The narrow-paved streets, stone houses, quaint restaurants, and lovely beaches all add up to create a wonderful destination for laid-back small-town living.

Food is an integral part of life celebrated with two excellent annual food festivals celebrating the fine fare and wines of the region. Stroll among the excellent boutiques and antique stores, windsurf on the clear, calm blue waters or take a walk up to see the ancient stone windmills that stand watch over the town.

It may be the capital of this region but Amasya lacks the big city buzz of comparative European cities.

This tiny seaside city overlooks the Black Sea coast from its lofty perch on the coastal mountains alongside the Yesilirmak River. With 7,500 years of history to its name, Amasya features wonderfully intact castles and Ottoman mansions, as well as the tombs of the Pontic kings, cut into the mountainsides.

5. Ayvali, Nevsehir

Ayvali nestles in the breathtakingly scenic Anatolian highlands of Turkey. Apart from the gorgeous scenery, the main attractions in Ayvali are the food, wine, coffee, and charming locals. To make the most of your time here, book one of our escorted tours to take in all the highlights.

A big attraction in this area is the chance to soar over the sights in a colorful hot air balloon. You can also head off on a camel or horse to explore and also visit the ancient Cappadocia cave dwellings.

6. Beypazari, Ankara

In ancient times, Beypazari was a very important trading post and military center. Today it’s settled down into a quiet agricultural hub, with the distinction of being the nation’s biggest producer of carrots.

You’ll also find exceptionally pure mineral water and fine silver goods in Beypazari as well as a treasure trove of architectural heritage. Here you can celebrate the past at fascinating local museums or immerse yourself in nature at nearby Butterfly Valley.

7. Cirali, Antalya

Cirali sits on the opposite end of Olympos to Adrasan and is another noteworthy seaside destination along the Turkish South Coast.

Nestled among the mountains and pomegranate groves, Cirali offers abundant tranquillity and natural beauty, highlighted by gorgeous pink blooms at every turn.

Lap up the splendor of a gorgeous wide beach or venture further afield to witness the flaming Yanartas. The fascinating ruins of Olympos and Phaselis with its ancient harbor walls are great for a day trip.

8. Dogubeyazit, Agri

Dogubeyazit has lingered in the shadow of Mt Ararat for almost 6,000 years and has plenty of historical sites to prove it. Ishak Pasha Palace beckons with its ornate arches and domes and elevated views over the sparse landscapes beyond.

The peculiar shape of Durupinar site hints that it may once have been the resting place of Noah’s Ark and Mount Ararat is a temptation for mountain climbers and hikers alike.

Other attractions include the change to taste local cuisine like delicious tenderized meatballs and enjoy the solitude of this often-overlooked destination.

9. Birgi, Odemis, Izmir

Another beautiful little town inhabited from Phrygians to Ottoman Era where among the must-do sites are still amaze its visitors with Ulucami Mosque and Cakiraga Konak, which is an 18th-century mansion. If you are driving from Izmir to Bodrum, don’t miss this beauty and try to visit at a weekend to enjoy its farmers’ market as well.

10. Goynuk Town, Bolu

Located four hours from the bustle of Istanbul, Goynuk is an architectural gem in the foothills of the Bolu Mountains. The narrow streets overflow with buildings that reveal an immaculately preserved Ottoman heritage.

Organic food and a peaceful ambiance are the calling cards of this small city which abounds with unique traditions such as marmalade making and wood carving. Hike the hills or head for the lovely expanses of Cubuk and Sunnet Lakes. There’s no rush in Goynuk.

11. Gumusluk, Mugla

Located close to the glittering seaside jewel of Bodrum, Gumusluk is another seaside hideaway that’s little-known to tourists. Enjoy your meals in an enchanted garden serving up local delicacies, meze, and refreshing cocktails or spend some time lapping up the rays on an oceanside lounger.

The local markets are a treat of handmade traditional Turkish goods and yummy street food. When you’ve had your fill of sunbathing and sampling the local treats, head off on one of the daily boat trips to explore nearby islands.

12. Halfeti, Sanliurfa

Another one of Turkey’s ‘Cittaslow’ destinations, Halfeti offers a quaint respite from the crowds. It’s a fascinating place lying half-submerged thanks to the advent of the Birecik Dam in the 90s and the only place on Earth where black roses grow.

You can see the remains of the old Halfeti through crystal clear waters when you join a boat tour of your surroundings waters. Another don’t-miss attraction is the ancient hilltop Rumkale fortress.

13. Kalekoy, Antalya

You can’t get to Kalekoy unless you take a boat, which makes it the perfect hideaway for those seeking a unique retreat. It’s home to a huge collection of Lycian archaeological treasures and a Byzantine Castle boasting a rock-sculpted theatre and incredible lagoon views.

Boat trips to nearby Kekova, reveal more historic ruins and snorkelers delight in their marine discoveries below the waters.

14. Kas, Antalya

Despite its little-known status, Kas is a hotspot of dive centers, cool bars, and fabulous Turkish restaurants. The ancient theatre hosts live music shows from time to time. When night falls, head up the mountain to admire the glittering views below.

You can island-hop to the Greek island of Meis, just 20 minutes away, or neighboring Limanagzi with its breathtaking beaches. Bus trips leave every hour to the nearby Ruins of Patara Beach and Xanthos.

15. Ucmakdere, Tekirdag

Kumbag boasts a lovely beach and a laid-back pastoral vibe. While the road down is a little tricky, once you get there, heaven is all yours! There’s little to do in the area which keeps the tourist hordes away but it’s just 33km from Tekirdag and it has Kumbag, which is another nice beach on the way. Highly recommended for camping and if interested, paragliding is another fun activity to get down there!

16. Macka, Trabzon

Macka lies secluded within picturesque streams, rivers, and mountains. It’s close to remote Sumela Monastery which clings to a cliff 3,937 ft above sea level.

The monastery hails back to the glory days of Rome and has been lovingly restored by every civilization that came after them. Besides the incredible nature of this fortress, the views over Macka’s pristine landscapes make the effort well worthwhile.

17. Mordogan, Izmir

Mordogan holds pride of place on the eastern shoreline of Karaburn Peninsula, on the beautiful Gulf of Izmir. The Mordogan-Ayibaligi Beach boasts turquoise waters and a sheltered location among looming cliffs. It’s a paradise of boating, sunbathing, and seaside cocktail sipping.

Nearby attractions include the ruins of Erythrai but overall this destination is the best place to visit in Turkey if you want to put your feet up and slack off in an uncomplicated summer style.

18. Kabak, Fethiye, Mugla

This is the launching point for boat trips to the lush Butterfly Valley with its quaint overnight huts and cabins. It’s well worth the trip to experience the waterfalls, forests, white beaches and unspoiled nature of this tiny valley in the south of Turkey.

Kabak offers opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling or taking a pedalo out on the waters. The main beach is the perfect place for people- and paragliding-watching while sipping on homemade lemonade.

Nearby, the Fethiye fish market makes for a sociable outing or you can head off near Oludeniz as well to see the mysterious Kayakoy ghost village .

19. Sancavus, Agri

Sancavus’ claim to fame is its close location to sites of biblical significance. These include Mt. Ararat, the plains of Igdir and the geological dent near Uzengili village, believed to be where Noah’s ark once came to rest.

In essence, Sancavus is a simple village where it’s possible to catch a glimpse of down-to-earth local living on your way past.

20. Pamukkale, Denizli

Pamukkale is one of the best-known places in Turkey, famed for its terraced turquoise pools and thermal waters. You must take a dip in these healing mineral waters when you are in the area.

Nearby, the ancient Roman town of Hierapolis, with its necropolis, theater, and the sarcophagus is an interesting place to find out how they did things back in 190 BC.

Back in the village, you’ll find many a tourist trap, but also a few spots where you can bite into traditional Turkish ice cream and filled borek flatbread. The Natural Park is a great place to hand out and watch the crowds heading up to the hot pools, while you try to maneuver a pedalo around the small duck-filled onsite lake.

21. Safranbolu, Karabuk

Safranbolu was once a hub of trade along Turkey’s Black Sea border, but it stopped growing when nearby Davotobasi came into fashion. Today, it’s still semi-trapped in the past, showcasing the traditional architecture of its heydays and many historical artifacts.

The town center, called the Carsi, is awash with private museums, Turkish baths, mosques, tombs, and an ancient clock tower. Thanks to these unique treasures, the town has earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage sites list, making it one to tick of your Turkey travel list.

22. Selimiye, Marmaris

Selimiye brings a taste of the real Turkey to your travels. It’s close to the tourist hub of Marmaris but couldn’t be more different. A tiny horseshoe harbor and ruined watchtower are its main focal points, but it’s the pine-scented air, Mediterranean feel and family vibe that will win you over here.

Luxury yachts have started to make their way here, accompanied by plush boutiques and eateries along the waterfront but for now, it remains a peaceful place to relax far from the madding tourist crowds.

23. Pokut Plateau, Rize

Good morning! We have a long ride up to one of the most beautiful plateaus of the Black Sea; Pokut Yaylasi. This little bumpy ramp will make you stop several times on the way, to take photos from beautiful angles and finally will get you up to the peak of 2170 meters. Once reached, you won’t want to leave; not only the view but the wonderful breakfast served by a local family at one of these houses.

24. Eski (Old) Datca, Muga

Unlike the surroundings invaded by big tourism, The old Datca rather remained as a safe zone where it awaits its individuals to discover its beautiful narrow streets filled with bougainvilleas at old stone houses. Enjoy the crystal clear water, meatballs with piyaz and delicious seafood.

For those who like hiking, it is also on the route of the Carian Way and if you would like to keep it simpler; then just head out to Kargi cove for a good stretch.

25. Uchisar, Nevsehir

Like nearby Goreme, Uchisar writhes with shops, homes and cafe’s carved out of the local caves. Uchisar castle is the highest place in Cappadocia and an excellent vantage point from which to gaze out over this amazing landscape.

The Castle itself is a warren of rooms and hollows carved out of the mountain. Interestingly, pigeons rule the roost on the north side and are the mainstay of Uchisar’s lucrative fertilizer industry.

Travel Turkey and These Turkish Villages with Atelier

Wherever your wanderlust compels you to roam among the many magnificent places to visit in Turkey, we can assist.

Get in touch to arrange guided tours to see these and more Turkish villages, special interest destinations, and all the best tourist sites.

We know our way around Turkey!

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10 Tourist Traps That Are Actually Worth It

Tourist Traps are designed to draw in tourists and snag their money in any way possible but some of these "traps" are actually very worth it.

When passing along travel advice, seasoned travelers tend to recommend staying away from typical tourist traps in the big cities around the world. While it’s true that some iconic tourist traps are overcrowded, overpriced, and not worth it at all, others should still be on your bucket list. They may attract millions of tourists and they may be expensive to get into, but they’re still worth it.

Let’s not forget that tourist traps become popular in the first place for a reason. Often, just seeing monuments that are so iconic, spectacular, and historically significant first-hand is enough of a reason to put up with the crowds and the prices.

10 Times Square, USA

Packed to the brim with tourists, so much so that you probably won’t be able to walk through without being brushed by other people, Times Square definitely counts as a total tourist hotspot. But that doesn’t mean you should leave it off your bucket list when visiting New York City.

RELATED:  10 Landmarks In NYC All Tourists Should Visit (And 10 For Locals)

It’s a rite of passage to visit Times Square at least once. If huge crowds aren’t your thing, it won’t take you long to simply snap a few shots and move on to other New York landmarks. You don’t even have to spend any money!

9 The Grand Bazaar, Turkey

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the most well-known landmarks in the Turkish city. It was the first shopping mall ever built and was first commissioned by Mehmet the Conqueror all the way back in 1461.

Yes, it will be full of tourists (more than half a million people visit per day sometimes), but the 4,000 shops are worth visiting. You’ll be able to get your hands on authentic souvenirs and can even try your hand at haggling down the prices. This will be one experience you won’t forget.

8 The Great Wall of China, China

The longest wall in the world, the Great Wall of China is something that you can’t visit the country without seeing. Even if you’re in for long lines of people, you won’t forgive yourself for traveling to China and bypassing the iconic landmark. It’s a wonder of the world, so it’s a must!

Standing since the 14 th century, the 2,150-mile wall attracts millions of visitors every year. If you don’t like crowds, stick to the Jinshanling section of the wall, rather than the more popular Badaling and Mutianyu sections.

7 The Pyramids Of Giza, Egypt

The Great Pyramid of Giza was built in the 26 th century BC for Pharaoh Khufu and is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world in existence today. The Great Pyramid is the oldest and largest pyramid of Giza, but the others and the iconic Sphinx are also worth seeing.

Some travelers choose to steer clear of the area thanks to the scams that some locals set up for unsuspecting tourists. But that doesn’t change how historically significant and mind-blowing the site is. Prepare to be bothered by local scammers, and take in the beauty of the landmark anyway.

6 The Acropolis, Athens

It’s a bit of a hike to reach, but the Acropolis should definitely be on your bucket list when visiting Athens. In exchange for being one in a sea of tourists wielding selfie sticks, you’ll get to see first-hand the ruins of a monument that was among the most prominent of the ancient world.

RELATED:  10 Tourist Traps To Look Out For In Busy European Cities

In addition to getting to explore the citadel complex and learn about the history of the famous structures, including the Parthenon, you’ll also get a breathtaking view of the city of Athens. It’s worth battling the crowds to experience this historically significant site.

5 Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu isn’t easy to get to, but it’s the most famous site in Peru (and on the continent in general). Mysterious and stunning, Machu Picchu is thought to be a lost city once lived in by the Inca people. It was discovered in 1911 after being hidden in the surrounding jungle for more than 400 years.

Some believe that seeing the landmark is too expensive, but we think this is one attraction where it’s worth it to splurge. There are also visitor restrictions in place, so you probably won’t have to contend with too many other tourists.

4 The Colosseum, Italy

There are a few iconic highlights that you have to see when in Rome, and the Colosseum is one of them. Arguably the most impressive structure in the city, the enormous arena stands as a testament to a time where Rome ruled over a significant portion of the world.

RELATED:  20 Destinations We Should Visit Before They Become Tourist Traps

Visitors to the Colosseum can take an audio tour during the day or a night tour which grants access to the underground area and the arena floor, where many gladiators would have met their fate. You can avoid long lines by booking your tickets a few days in advance.

3 The Taj Mahal, India

Around 70,000 people visit India’s Taj Mahal per day, and with good reason. The mausoleum of white marble is perhaps the most iconic landmark in India. The mere sight of it is enough to humble tourists from all over the world, so it simply must be part of any trip to India.

Some travelers are reluctant to visit the Taj Mahal because of the large crowds, as well as the scammers hanging around who sell photography and tour guide services, only to rip you off. But like other major landmarks, it’s worth putting up with all of that just to see it.

2 The Grand Canyon, USA

One of the most famous natural wonders in the United States, the Grand Canyon is a must-see for anybody traveling to the state of Arizona. The canyon, which spans 18 miles from side to side, is an incredibly impressive sight, so don’t let the throngs of tourists put you off.

RELATED:  10 Tourist Traps To Avoid In New York City

There are several ways to go about seeing the Grand Canyon. You can stop by for an hour just to snap some photos, see the canyon by small plane, or even trek down into the canyon for a camping trip.

1 Angkor Wat, Cambodia

In the past, Angkor Wat has been labeled the world’s number one landmark by TripAdvisor , so naturally, it receives millions of tourists a year. Many of the crowds appear at the site at sunset so they can take in the most breathtaking views of the series of temples.

Considered the world’s largest religious monument, Angkor Wat should definitely be on your bucket list. Forget about the tourists—this attraction, which was built as a Hindu temple in the 12 th century and is now Buddhist, is a must for anybody traveling to Cambodia.

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Beware of the Tourist Traps

• Thread starter KKOB
• Start date Oct 21, 2009
• Tags beware tourist traps

Completely Chillaxed

• Oct 21, 2009

Although the article is specifically about Istanbul, there's some good advise for travellers wherever they may be going. Keep a sharp eye out for a tourist trap  

Sounds like the the Mirror image of Kusadasi.  

KKOB said: Although the article is specifically about Istanbul, there's some good advise for travellers wherever they may be going. Keep a sharp eye out for a tourist trap Click to expand...

Woodspeckie

I too can only speak of the good things that have happened on our visits to Turkey, similar to you with the jeweller, I bought a bracelet and it needed to be shortened left us in the shop while he went to another shop to get it altered, sent a lad in with a tray of mineral water for us. Had afternoon tea with a family in the sheep and goat pen, fruit pulled fresh from the trees and lovely turkish food. Just had 10 days holiday staying with a Turkish family in North Cyprus we have been friends with for 6 years. Wonderful memories.  

Fighting "The Beast"

Isn't it lovely to read some nice threads for a change.:high5:  

Good article and a reminder to be cautious. But a simple 'good tale' from a recent stay in Istanbul was that before myself and partner could check the bill presented after a (really excellent!) meal, the waiter apologised, checked it himself and deleted an item not ordered but added to the total. A quick check ourselves confirmed the right items and we were happy to leave a tip for the service - and quality of food. A simple thing from the waiter, but typical of the quality of service we found everywhere. As a recommendation, the restaurant was the Rumeli Restaurant at Ticarethane Sokak 8, off Divanyolu Caddesi. (Easy to find on the left of the main road as you head up towards the Grand Bazaar). Seats outside as well as loads indoors on 3 floors plus terrace on the roof - nice interior, good choice of grub, and first class service. And if you want an excellent hotel for a stop over or for a break in the city - the Apex Hotel in Sultanhamet was outstanding for service, accommodation and at a great rate too. They come 4th or 5th in the city on the Tripadvisor site due to their reputatoin which is well deserved, and I can genuinely say their service was above and beyond anything I expected from a modest boutique hotel. I'd asked before arriving for some wine and a box of lokum to be placed in the room as a 'treat' - but arrived to find not just the asked for items in the room but it was filled with flowers, fruit, rose and jasmine petals all over the bed, floors and bathroom, and after following their recommendations, we had some excellent meals, wonderful visits to the usual locations (tips about best times to visit etc) and had a time to remember for our stay. Do go there if you want a fantastic, hospitable stay in a great location at great rates! Yes it is a plug for them but as far as service is concerned I can not praise them enough for what they did.  

Istanbul_expat

We've all been ripped off if we are foreigners in a capital city. You can get worse and more nastily ripped off in Paris or Rome, believe me. Americans tend to be penny pinchers and whingers when they go abroad unfortunately. They moan about the least tiny bit of discomfort too.  

Be careful, dont get conned easily.  

Had a holiday in Marmaris a few years ago and went on a boat trip, we were two couples and had a lovely day with the Turkish boat owners who were from Istanbul, we mentioned we were going to Istanbul later in the year for a holiday and asked if they knew the Hotel where we were staying, they did, and on arrival at the Hotel there was two big bouquets of flowers for myself and my friend.  

Excellent article ,with many valid points,just back from istanbul and each time i go,it just gets better................  

Am I pretty ?

In our experience the positives have far outweighed the negatives in Turkey so far.  

Postless Pointer

We've all been ripped off if we are foreigners in a capital city. You can get worse and more nastily ripped off in Paris or Rome, believe me. Americans tend to be penny pinchers and whingers when they go abroad unfortunately. They moan about the least tiny bit of discomfort too. Istanbul Expat, as a Brit with American friends i find your estimation at odds with mine. I find Americans prepared to pay good money for good service and to then tip handsomely. what they take issue with is poor shoddy unattentive service, me likewise. Steve.  

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I'm a travel writer who's visited nearly 20 countries. These 6 'tourist traps' are actually worth visiting — from the Statue of Liberty to the Eiffel Tower.

• I'm a travel writer and try to travel to new destinations each year. So far, I've been to 19 countries.
• Each place has its share of "tourist traps," and it's hard to tell which ones are worth visiting. 
• Some, however, are truly extraordinary. From the Eiffel Tower to Petra, these are my must-visit spots.

Much has been said about avoiding tourist traps, both domestically and abroad, while traveling. They're bemoaned as too crowded, too tacky, too expensive, and often don't give you the full picture of a place's culture.

Some, however, succeed at ensnaring thousands of visitors for a reason: because they're truly extraordinary. 

In my travels, which have taken me to nearly 20 countries, I've been able to see both sides — the places I can't wait to get out of  and the places that I actually enjoyed and would visit again.

Stateside, I thought the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island were must-visits for tourists and locals alike.

Last year, during my first visit to the Statue of Liberty, I was surprised by how much I got out of the experience.

I took a tour with my parents, departing by ferry from Manhattan's Battery Park neighborhood. Our general admissions tickets , which were about $25 each, got us access to two destinations: The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. 

The first stop was Liberty Island, home to Lady Liberty herself, where we walked around its perimeter, admiring the monument and city views. 

What I really enjoyed, and will recommend to anyone visiting New York, was Ellis Island. Having seen millions of immigrants pass through, Ellis Island and its accompanying museum are a remarkable reminder of the country's immigration history.

My only regret was that I couldn't spend more time walking through the museum.

Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the world, is a timeless feat of human ingenuity.

Known by many for its role in "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," Petra is a city in Jordan carved into a red sandstone canyon.

According to UNESCO , the city has been inhabited since prehistoric times, serving as a home to Nabateans, Romans, Christians, and Muslims for centuries.

Tickets to get into Petra were pricier , coming in at about $70 per person. But walking through its canyons, looking up at the remains of homes, Monastery, and Treasury — its most famous facade — felt like stepping into humanity's past and is worth the money. 

I stayed just for an afternoon in late 2022, but with the ancient city spanning more than 100 square miles , I wished I'd carved out an entire day to explore the city. There's so much more to see than just the Treasury, and it's well worth allocating a full day or two to explore.

I actually loved visiting the Eiffel Tower, Paris' most iconic landmark.

When I first visited Paris last summer, I, like many travelers, knew I would need to see the Eiffel Tower.

Unconvinced that the view from the top would really be that remarkable, I had no real interest in paying to go to the top. Instead, I packed a light dinner from a local grocery store and took it to a free park facing the monument.

The surrounding area was flush with other tourists and vendors selling little trinkets or water bottles, but the space was big enough to spread out and didn't feel too crowded. 

I was happy to sit on the grass, eat dinner, and people-watch, and I would do it again the next time I visit. 

I think it's worth it to pay for a ride in one of Cuba's classic, candy-colored cars.

This one is less of a place and more of an activity, but I still recommend it.

During the mid-1900s, Cuba imported 125,000 American vehicles , Insider reported. But in 1959, while the country was under Fidel Castro's control, a ban was placed on imported cars — essentially freezing the streets in the 1950s. 

That led to the image of Cuban cars many people keep today: bright and shiny cars like Cadillac's and Chevrolet's on every street.

While in Cuba in 2018, I took a few rides in the pastel-colored cars. My travel partners and I took a brief trip around Havana, then hailed one for a drive from the capital to Matanzas, a town about two hours away.

I don't remember the exact cost, but I remember deciding it was worth it. And although it seems like something that every tourist to Cuba does, I think that's for a good reason — because it's an absolute blast. 

I returned several times to Marrakesh, Morocco's bustling, vibrant medina.

Visitors to Morocco would be hard-pressed to leave without visiting a medina, and Marrakesh's sprawling old city is often the top pick.

I lived in Morocco for four months during college and visited the medina several times. Its central square, Jamaâ El Fna, is filled with vendors, fruit stands, restaurants, and performers and is a main attraction for people visiting the city. 

Beyond Jamaâ El Fna is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with homes, shops, and mosques. It's a maze that's easy to spend a day — or more — navigating. It's a version of the medinas found in cities across the Middle East and Northern Africa. I found it to be an accurate, albeit undoubtedly commercialized, representation of other medinas I've visited. 

Though I found it overwhelming at times, I mostly enjoyed wandering and sometimes getting lost in its winding streets, and I consider it a must-visit when considering touring Morocco.

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• Plan Your Trip

What Are Tourist Traps

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Leilah Coakley

• Travel Guide

Introduction

When planning a trip, one of the key considerations is how to make the most of your time and money. However, amidst the excitement of exploring new destinations, it’s important to be aware of the potential pitfalls that can turn your dream vacation into a disappointing experience. This is where the concept of “tourist traps” comes into play.

Tourist traps are typically places or attractions that are specifically designed to attract and take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. These are often characterized by inflated prices, overcrowding, and subpar experiences, all in the name of making a quick profit. While not all tourist attractions fall into this category, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs and learn how to identify and avoid them.

So, why do tourist traps exist? Well, with the rise of global tourism, there is a growing demand for unique and authentic experiences. Unfortunately, not all businesses and individuals are willing to provide these experiences genuinely. Instead, they opt for shortcuts and gimmicks to lure in tourists and extract as much money as possible.

That being said, it’s important to approach the concept of tourist traps with a balanced mindset. Not all attractions that are popular among tourists are necessarily traps. There are many renowned landmarks and attractions that are worth visiting and offer genuine experiences. The key is to be able to differentiate between what’s truly authentic and what’s just a facade.

Definition of Tourist Traps

Tourist traps can be defined as places, businesses, or attractions that specifically target tourists and aim to extract as much money as possible from them without providing genuine value in return. These traps often rely on deceptive marketing tactics, inflated prices, and subpar experiences to maximize profits.

One of the key characteristics of tourist traps is their ability to create a sense of urgency or exclusivity. This can be seen through limited-time offers, “one-time-only” deals, or claims of being a “must-see” attraction. These tactics play on the fear of missing out (FOMO) and often result in tourists hastily parting with their money, only to be left disappointed.

Another common trait of tourist traps is the manipulation of emotions. They are designed to evoke a sense of excitement, wonder, or even guilt in order to prompt travelers to spend more. For example, attractions that feature animal shows or interactions may tug at the heartstrings of animal lovers, leading them to pay exorbitant fees for a brief encounter.

It’s important to note that not all popular tourist attractions are traps. There are many genuine and worthwhile places to visit that attract large crowds of tourists for valid reasons. The distinction lies in the intention behind the attraction. A genuine tourist destination seeks to enhance the visitor experience and provide value, while a tourist trap aims to exploit the visitor’s lack of knowledge or vulnerability.

Tourist traps can manifest in various forms, such as overpriced restaurants in popular tourist areas, tacky souvenir shops, or even entire cities that have built their economy solely around tourism. These traps often prioritize quantity over quality, catering to the masses rather than offering an authentic and memorable experience.

Ultimately, the definition of a tourist trap is subjective and can vary from person to person. What one traveler may consider a trap, another may find enjoyable. It is important for travelers to be aware of the warning signs and make informed decisions when it comes to choosing their activities and spending their money.

Characteristics of Tourist Traps

Tourist traps share a number of common characteristics that distinguish them from authentic and worthwhile attractions. By understanding these characteristics, travelers can better identify and avoid falling into tourist traps.

1. Overpriced: One of the most tell-tale signs of a tourist trap is inflated prices. From overpriced food and drinks to exorbitant entry fees, tourist traps often capitalize on the fact that tourists may be willing to spend more without questioning the value they are receiving.

2. Crowded: Tourist traps tend to attract large crowds of tourists, which can lead to overcrowding. This not only diminishes the experience for visitors but also provides an opportunity for businesses to rush through services and cut corners.

3. Tacky and Generic: Many tourist traps feature generic or clichéd elements that lack authenticity. This can be seen in souvenir shops selling mass-produced knick-knacks, restaurants offering generic menus catered to international tastes, or attractions that rely heavily on gimmicks rather than genuine cultural or historical significance.

4. Aggressive Marketing: Tourist traps often employ aggressive marketing tactics to target unsuspecting travelers. This can include pushy street vendors, constant advertising, or misleading information that creates a sense of urgency or exclusivity.

5. Lack of Local Presence: Authentic and worthwhile attractions often have a strong connection to the local culture and community. In contrast, tourist traps may lack any genuine local presence, as they are primarily geared towards extracting money from tourists rather than benefiting the local economy.

6. Limited or Poor Reviews: Researching customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into whether an attraction is a tourist trap. Negative reviews highlighting high prices, unfulfilled promises, or a lack of authenticity are warning signs to look out for.

7. Unforeseen Extra Charges: Tourist traps often use hidden fees or additional charges to increase their profits. These can take the form of mandatory service charges, unexpected taxes, or supplementary fees for essential amenities.

Recognizing these characteristics can help travelers make informed decisions and avoid falling into tourist traps. By seeking out authentic experiences that prioritize quality, uniqueness, and genuine cultural immersion, travelers can ensure a more enjoyable and fulfilling journey.

Common Tourist Traps Around the World

Tourist traps exist in various forms and destinations around the world. While it’s important to note that not all popular attractions are traps, there are some well-known spots that have gained a reputation for taking advantage of unsuspecting tourists. Here are a few common tourist traps to be aware of:

1. Times Square, New York City: While undoubtedly iconic, Times Square is notorious for its high prices and overcrowding. Visitors often find themselves bombarded with aggressive street vendors and inflated prices for food and souvenirs.

2. The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul: Considered one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar can be overwhelming for tourists due to its maze-like layout and persistent salespeople. Bargaining is essential to avoid overpaying for items.

3. The Eiffel Tower, Paris: As one of the most visited landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower attracts large crowds year-round. Tourists should be cautious of unauthorized sellers or scammers offering “skip-the-line” tickets at inflated prices.

4. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand: While the idea of a floating market sounds charming, the reality of Damnoen Saduak is often overcrowded with tourists and vendors selling overpriced souvenirs. For a more authentic experience, exploring smaller, lesser-known floating markets is recommended.

5. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco: This popular tourist area is filled with souvenir shops, overpriced seafood restaurants, and gimmicky attractions. Visitors are advised to explore other neighborhoods in San Francisco for a more genuine local experience.

6. Pisa’s Leaning Tower, Italy: The Leaning Tower of Pisa is undoubtedly an iconic landmark, but it has also become synonymous with tourist traps. Overpriced restaurants, street vendors, and tacky souvenir shops surround the area, detracting from the historical significance of the tower.

7. Kuta Beach, Bali: Kuta Beach is a popular tourist spot known for its vibrant nightlife and beachfront resorts. However, it has also become a tourist trap with inflated prices, aggressive touts, and overcrowded beaches. Exploring other areas of Bali can provide a more authentic and peaceful experience.

While these examples highlight some well-known tourist traps, it’s important to remember that there are countless other destinations where tourist traps can be found. Doing thorough research, reading reviews, and seeking advice from locals or experienced travelers can help avoid falling into these traps and ensure a more enjoyable and authentic travel experience.

Impact of Tourist Traps on Local Culture and Economy

While tourism can bring many benefits to a destination, the presence of tourist traps can have negative impacts on both the local culture and economy. Understanding these impacts is crucial in order to foster sustainable and responsible travel practices.

One of the main concerns regarding tourist traps is the erosion of local culture. When tourist traps prioritize catering to the masses and meeting international expectations, they often neglect genuine cultural experiences. This can lead to the commodification and dilution of local traditions, as businesses prioritize profit over preserving and showcasing authentic cultural heritage.

Moreover, the over-commercialization of a destination due to tourist traps can lead to the displacement of local businesses. As large chains and international brands move in to cater to the tourist demand, local entrepreneurs and vendors are often pushed out. This not only diminishes the economic opportunities for locals but also contributes to the homogenization of the destination’s offerings, reducing its uniqueness and charm.

Furthermore, the presence of tourist traps can create a dependency on tourism as the sole source of income for a community or region. When the economy becomes overly reliant on tourism, it can be vulnerable to fluctuations and downturns in the industry. This can result in economic instability and lack of diversification, making the local community more susceptible to the negative impacts of crises such as natural disasters or global events.

Another consequence of tourist traps is the widening wealth gap between those who directly benefit from tourism and those who do not. In many cases, the profits generated by tourist traps do not trickle down to the local community, as they are often siphoned off by large corporations or outside investors. This inequality can lead to social tensions and resentment among local residents.

Moreover, the overcrowding caused by tourist traps can have negative environmental impacts. Ecologically sensitive areas can become degraded due to the influx of visitors, leading to pollution, habitat destruction, and strain on local resources such as water and energy.

To mitigate these negative impacts, it is important for tourists to be conscious of their choices and support local businesses and initiatives that promote sustainability and cultural preservation. Engaging in responsible tourism practices, such as staying in locally-owned accommodations, dining at local establishments, and participating in community-based tourism initiatives, can help ensure that the benefits of tourism are more evenly distributed and contribute to the long-term well-being of the destination and its inhabitants.

Tips to Avoid Falling into Tourist Traps

While it can be challenging to navigate the tourism landscape and identify tourist traps, there are several tips that can help travelers avoid falling into their traps and have a more authentic and fulfilling travel experience:

1. Do Your Research: Before visiting a destination, conduct thorough research about popular attractions and tourist areas. Read reviews, check forums, and consult travel blogs to get insights from other travelers about their experiences. Look for recommendations from locals or experienced travelers to find hidden gems off the beaten path.

2. Seek Local Advice: Locals are often the best source of information when it comes to avoiding tourist traps. Strike up conversations with locals, ask for recommendations, and seek their advice on where to go and what to avoid. They can provide valuable insights into authentic cultural experiences and steer you away from touristy areas.

3. Be Wary of Aggressive Marketing: Tourist traps often employ aggressive marketing tactics to lure in unsuspecting visitors. Be cautious of street vendors who are overly pushy, shops with flashy signs and exaggerated claims, or tour operators offering unrealistic deals. Take your time and make informed decisions rather than succumbing to high-pressure sales tactics.

4. Follow the Locals: Look for where the locals go. If you see a crowded restaurant or bustling market full of locals, chances are it’s an authentic spot worth exploring. Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat, drink, and shop, as they will guide you towards genuine local experiences.

5. Compare Prices: Tourist traps often overcharge for products and services. Compare prices at different establishments and ask locals for price estimates to ensure you’re not being ripped off. Avoid establishments that don’t display clear pricing or try to negotiate prices aggressively.

6. Avoid Tourist Hotspots during Peak Hours: Popular tourist attractions are often most crowded during peak hours. If possible, visit these attractions early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds. This will allow you to have a more enjoyable experience without feeling overwhelmed.

7. Embrace Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences: Consider exploring lesser-known areas or pursuing alternative activities that are off the typical tourist radar. This can provide a more authentic and unique experience while minimizing the chances of falling into tourist traps.

8. Use Local Transportation: Instead of relying solely on tourist transport options, use local modes of transportation like buses, trains, or trams. This not only provides a more authentic experience but also helps support the local economy.

By following these tips, travelers can avoid falling into tourist traps and instead discover the authentic essence of a destination. Remember, the goal is to embrace cultural immersion, interact with the locals, and create meaningful memories that go beyond the clichés of mass tourism.

Tourist traps can pose a challenge for travelers seeking genuine and memorable experiences. It’s important to approach travel with a critical mindset, doing research, seeking local advice, and being aware of the warning signs that indicate a tourist trap. By avoiding these traps, travelers can support local businesses, preserve local culture, and have a more authentic travel experience.

While not all popular tourist attractions are traps, it’s essential to be mindful of inflated prices, generic experiences, aggressive marketing tactics, and overcrowding. By seeking out off-the-beaten-path destinations, engaging with the local community, and supporting sustainable tourism practices, travelers can make a positive impact and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Remember, the true beauty of travel lies in exploring different cultures, connecting with people, and discovering hidden gems that offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of a destination. By avoiding tourist traps and seeking out authenticity, travelers can create cherished memories and contribute to sustainable and responsible tourism.

So, the next time you plan your trip, take the time to research, consult locals, and be discerning in your choices. By doing so, you can uncover the true essence of a place, support local communities, and make your journey a truly enriching and memorable experience.

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These Notorious So-called 'Tourist Traps' Are Worth Visiting, According to Travelers

Travelers are speaking out to say these spots aren't half bad.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Alex Livesey/FIFA via Getty Images

Ah, the traveler’s debacle: To follow the crowd to major, must-see sights knowing they’ll be met with overpriced services, entertainment, food, and souvenirs — or to avoid these sites completely and search out hidden gems void of other tourists. To some, visiting Paris without going up the Eiffel Tower isn’t seeing Paris , while to others, the complete opposite is true. 

It’s a question — or way of traveling — that isn’t always black-and-white. Most of us want to see the major sites — preferably without giant tour groups and overpriced crêpe stands — and stumble upon authentic places that few others will get to experience. So when is it worth following the crowd to a site you really want to see, even though it’s probably a tourist trap?

One user on Reddit , u/MarathonMarathon, posed that question , noting that for them, the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel in Shanghai was a tourist trap they ended up genuinely liking. “It's basically this short 5-minute tourist trap light show tram thing that takes you across the Huangpu River from the Bund to Pudong, with bizarre voice-overs. Sort of like some Disney attraction, but sadder, the very epitome of a kitsch tourist trap.”

The Reddit community responded, sharing the tourist-trap-inclined sites and tours that they genuinely liked and would recommend to others. Below are the “best” responses in order:

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour — Niagara Falls, U.S.

The 20-minute Maid of the Mist boat tour, which claims to be “the original Niagara Falls boat tour” — takes travelers to the foot of Niagara Falls where they can feel the power of 600,000 gallons of water crashing down and enjoy the resulting mist.

“You wait in line forever, the boat is packed, it seems cheesy ... and then you get up to the Falls and feel their power, you realize that the boat has the engine running at full power yet it struggles against the current and you realize that yeah, this is awesome,” said u/twoeightnine.

Original Sound of Music bus tour — Salzburg, Austria

The Original Sound of Music bus tour takes travelers through Salzburg, where "The Sound of Music" movie was filmed. The bus visits Mirabell Garden and Pegasus Fountain, where Maria and the children danced in the movie; Schloss Leopoldskron, the house, where the Trapp Family lived; and Church Mondsee, where Maria and Baron von Trapp got married, along with other sites.

User u/opuntialantana said the four-hour journey included, “Glorious views, drinks, snacks, and a Maria von Trapp lookalike leading us in singalongs as we drove from one filming location to the next. It was cheesy and it was perfect.”

Hobbiton Movie Set Tours — Matamata, New Zealand

At Hobbiton , visitors can walk through the lush pastures of the Shire and through the movie set used in "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film trilogies. The part-bus, part-walking tour includes visits to the series’ most famous locations, including the Hobbit Hole where Bilbo and Frodo Baggins lived. 

The 2.5-hour tour ends with a visit to the Green Dragon Inn , where a free drink concludes the tour of Middle-earth.

Guinness Storehouse — Dublin

The home of Ireland’s most iconic beer offers daily self-guided tours that include entry to the Guinness tasting rooms and a pint of Guinness. If you’re a true beer or Guinness connoisseur, you can opt for a “ premium experience ,” like a guided tasting with storytelling or a tour through the brewery’s historic sites — including their famous underground tunnels.

“When anyone came to visit [sic] me I always took them there; it never got old! It’s a well-curated museum and of course, the tap room is always fun to go to. Also, all my Irish friends were happy to go with me when I first moved there so it seems to be well-liked among people that live there too,” said u/tcpower2.

Hofbräuhaus München — Munich

Reddit user u/Triple10X said they initially went to Hofbräuhaus München “just to say that we've been there.” But after visiting several smaller German beer halls they felt that Hofbräuhaus was the best. 

The three-floor beer hall has a Bavarian restaurant and ongoing shows that take place in a historic, 16th-century building. According to u/Triple10X, “The food we got was phenomenal, the beer was obviously good and the atmosphere was eclectic with multiple couples around us all talking to each other in different languages.”

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The Biggest Tourist Traps Worldwide (2023 Data)

If you’ve ever been on vacation, you’ve likely found yourself compelled by travel books, tour guides or even a bucket list to check out a popular or world-famous attraction. But some of the most popular attractions in a tourism hotspot are known as ‘ tourist traps ’ — establishments that target tourists with overpriced experiences and souvenirs.

With a notorious reputation for long lines, colossal crowds and bank-breaking gift shops, one survey revealed that two in three American travelers will avoid visiting attractions known as tourist traps. Those that have visited one can be left feeling underwhelmed, as the same survey revealed that 67% of travelers have experienced tourist traps that led to an inauthentic experience.

But with so many sights to see and so little vacation time, how can we tell which attractions might not be worth the visit after all? To find out, our analysts at Casago figured there was no better place to turn than TripAdvisor, where we scoured thousands of reviews left for attractions in the U.S. and all over the world for the opinions of visitors gone before. Read on to discover what we found out…

We Found the Biggest Tourist Trap in Every Country and State

We searched for the phrase ‘tourist trap’ on TripAdvisor (with no location filter applied) to find the global attractions with the most mentions of ‘tourist trap’ in accompanying reviews. We then searched for the biggest tourist traps in each country and U.S. state by customizing the location settings and carrying out the same search, ranking the attractions by the number of ‘tourist trap’ mentions.

Key Findings

• Four of the top 10 biggest tourist traps in the world are located in the U.S.
• Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco is the biggest tourist trap in the U.S. and the world , counting 1,049 mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap’ in reviews
• Edinburgh’s Royal Mile beats out top London attractions to be the UK’s most notorious tourist trap (with 505 mentions )
• Barcelona’s Las Ramblas street ( 793 mentions ) is the second-biggest tourist trap in the world, followed by Hawaii’s Dole Plantation ( 708 mentions )

Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco Is the Biggest Tourist Trap in the World

Our map reveals the biggest tourist trap in every country, based on the number of times the phrase ‘tourist trap’ is mentioned in accompanying TripAdvisor reviews. Attractions range from restaurants and markets to geological features and world-famous landmarks. Still, the biggest of all is Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, California, which counts more ‘tourist trap’ mentions (1,049) than any other attraction in the world.

Situated on the northern waterfront of San Francisco, the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood is home to souvenir shops, restaurants and attractions. It receives around 12 million visitors annually as one of the city’s top tourist destinations. But not only do the locals steer clear, with SFGate calling it “the most universally derided neighborhood in all of San Francisco,” it also attracts the ire of tourists online.

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Reviews mentioning the phrase ‘tourist trap’ highlight the district’s “​ ​overpriced restaurants​ ​” and “​ ​tacky touristy tat​ ​,” while others take issue with the local wildlife (“​ ​a desperate seagull attacked my fried calamari​ ​”). On the plus side, some reviewers interpret the phrase ‘​ ​tourist trap’ positively​ ​.

Meanwhile, the “ soooo crowded ” Eiffel Tower comes up top in France, as does Niagara Falls in Canada, where one reviewer complained that “ every attraction dumped you into a gift shop .” The Trevi Fountain in Italy’s capital also takes the tourist trap title, with write-ups describing the crowds and expensive shops and restaurants nearby.

The Biggest Tourist Trap in Every U.S. State, According to Reviews

You may associate tourist traps with bustling city centers, but the U.S. has a long history of unusual roadside attractions all over the country designed to tempt drivers off the road and into the gift shop. If you’ve driven across America, you may have encountered the ‘world’s biggest’ monuments or attractions that stoke your curiosity with endless billboards. We’ve mapped the biggest tourist trap in each U.S. state according to TripAdvisor reviews.

Among the tourist traps with the most mentions are restaurants, monuments, museums, marketplaces and malls. Some attractions are entire streets or districts, like Times Square in New York, the Albuquerque Old Town in Albuquerque, and the Historic River Street in Savannah, Georgia.

Two Elvis Presley-related attractions also feature on our map: the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum in Mississippi and Graceland in Tennessee, with one reviewer leaving the following message about the latter on TripAdvisor: “ Say no to Graceland the tourist trap from hell. ”

San Francisco, Barcelona and Hawaii Home to the World’s Most Notorious Tourist Traps

Our data reveals the top 10 biggest tourist traps in the world, ranked by the number of mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap’ in accompanying TripAdvisor reviews. Four of the top 10 tourist traps can be found in the U.S., among them the world’s biggest ( Fisherman’s Wharf ) and the Cafe Du Monde in New Orleans.

In second place after Fisherman’s Wharf comes Las Ramblas ( 793 mentions ), a bustling boulevard in Barcelona that sees more than 200,000 people walk it every day. One TripAdvisor reviewer called it “crowded with tourists and vendors selling cheap trinkets … and pickpockets,” no doubt referencing that the street is Europe’s worst pickpocketing hotspot . According to one expat blog, locals avoid this street “ like the plague .”

Dublin’s popular Temple Bar ranks fourth, attracting TripAdvisor reviews with titles like “ The Tourist Trap to kill all Tourist Traps ” and scathing write-ups of the district’s “ overpriced, terrible Guinness .” Two German attractions also appear: Berlin’s historic Checkpoint Charlie and the Hofbrauhaus in Munich, where one reviewer experienced long waiting times and expensive food.

Times Square and the Hollywood Walk of Fame Among the Biggest Tourist Traps in the U.S.

We know by now that Fisherman’s Wharf is the most notorious tourist trap in the U.S. and the world at large, but which other attractions rank as the biggest tourist traps in America? Our analysis reveals that after Fisherman’s Wharf comes the Dole Plantation in Wahiawa, Hawaii, counting 708 mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap’ in TripAdvisor reviews.

This historic pineapple plantation boasts its own Pineapple Express miniature railway and one of the world’s largest mazes. Still, the attraction left a bitter taste in many reviewers’ mouths, with one labeling it “ the worst attraction in Hawaii ” and another deeming it “ shlock-city, one overpriced touristy item after another .”

Among the other top 10 biggest tourist traps in the U.S. are New York’s world-famous Times Square , which sees 330,000 people pass through every day, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame , which a 2019 study named the worst tourist attraction in the world . One underwhelmed visitor to LA’s most iconic sidewalk warned : “if there aren’t lots of tourists in the way, there’ll be people trying to make you part ways with your money.”

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and Top London Attractions Rated Biggest Tourist Traps

Counting 505 mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap’ in reviews, our research reveals that the biggest tourist trap in the UK is the Royal Mile , a stretch of cobbled road in Edinburgh spanning 1.81 km (or one Scots Mile ). Connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, two of the Scottish capital’s top tourist destinations , it’s no wonder this street receives a footfall of over four million people every year.

With great footfall, however, comes a great many souvenir shops, and the Royal Mile is lined with them — much to the chagrin of the Edinburgh World Heritage (EWH) trust, which in 2019 warned that the historic road was in danger of becoming a “ tourist ghetto .”

The next two attractions in our ranking are both in London: the London Eye and Covent Garden . Drawing 3.75 million visitors annually, the London Eye is one of the city’s most popular attractions, despite being an “ overpriced tourist trap ,” according to one review. Meanwhile, the famous shopping district Covent Garden is labeled a “ tourist trap of expensive designer outlets ” on TripAdvisor.

The Biggest Tourist Traps in Every Country and State

If you’re planning a trip and have a particular attraction on your itinerary, use our interactive table below to find out whether it ranks as one of the biggest tourist traps in the country or U.S. state based on the opinions of tourists gone before.

How to Not Fall Into a Tourist Trap

Our analysis reveals that some of the world’s biggest tourist traps, according to reviewers, are also among the world’s most iconic landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, which some tourists may center their entire trip around visiting. Others are popular points on the bucket list , like Niagara Falls or the Taj Mahal.

If you’re heading to one of these must-see places, shop around for discounts if there’s a steep ticket price and research the quietest times to go (tickets may be cheaper for off-peak periods). See if you can buy a ticket in advance as well to save on long lines and crowds at the ticket booth.

To avoid tourist traps altogether, Insider recommends avoiding places with long lines, crowded areas and gift shops, and attractions that are popular on Instagram and have their hashtag (e.g., #LondonEye). When it comes to getting something to eat, you should steer clear of restaurants with employees outside trying to draw you in.

One of the best ways to have an authentic experience of a new place is to go off the beaten track, dining where the locals recommend and taking a scenic walk through quieter streets. If you’re on the lookout for a souvenir, consider skipping the keychain and scoping out locally made crafts instead.

Methodology & Sources

To find the biggest tourist traps in the world, we first searched for the phrase ‘tourist trap’ on TripAdvisor without setting a location filter, which defaults the search setting to ‘worldwide.’ We were then able to gather the names of attractions/places, addresses and the number of mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap’ in accompanying reviews. The world’s top 10 biggest tourist traps are those with the highest number of mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap’ in reviews.

We then repeated this process by changing the location filter on TripAdvisor for each country and each U.S. state. We removed entries that indicated that the attraction/place was not a tourist trap, e.g., if the review contained word combinations such as ‘not a trap,’ ‘not a tourist trap,’ ‘not tourist trap,’ ‘not trap,’ ‘wasn’t a trap’ etc.

For our world analysis, we set a minimum threshold of 10 mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap.’ For each country and U.S. state, the threshold was set at five or more mentions.

Please note that tourist traps can refer to a range of experiences and impressions about a place, including how it looks, where it’s located, the general atmosphere or the style of the service. Not all mentions of ‘tourist trap’ necessarily equate to a poor experience from the person who reviewed the attraction.

The data was collected in January 2023.

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10 Cities Travelers Feel Are Actually Big Tourist Traps

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

When it comes to traveling, every city has its charms and its traps. However, some cities are more known for their tourist traps than others. In a popular thread on a social media platform, travelers were asked which cities they believed to be the biggest tourist traps. Here are the top 10 cities that made the list:

1. Cancun, Mexico

“The most touristy place I’ve been was Cancun Mexico. I swear that city’s chief export is kitschy t-shirts,” one person griped. Others agreed, with one person adding, “Makes sense. Cancun is a purpose-built resort city. Before Mexico decided to develop it as a resort area, there wasn’t much there, so it doesn’t have much anchor it other than the tourism.”

2. Niagara Falls, New York

“Yes, Niagara Falls is so tacky. Run down hotels and the restaurants aren’t really great. They wanna be like Vegas but has no money like Vegas,” one person complained. Someone else jumped in, adding, “as someone born and raised in the falls I can confirm this is true. it has its good local spots in terms of food but all the restaurants in the tourist area are overpriced and not great. And it’s definitely tacky but now that I’ve moved away it’s kind of cute and kitschy to go home to. I’ve never understood the appeal of vacationing there though, at best it’s a day trip from Toronto.”

3. Los Angeles, California

“I live in LA. There are lots of great reasons to visit here. Hollywood, specifically the walk of fame, is not one of them. It’s absolutely disgusting in every way. I can’t believe people still go down there,” someone pointed out. Between the homeless people and the smell, I don’t blame this person for warning people away from Hollywood Blvd.

4. Bangkok, Thailand

“If someone in Bangkok approaches you in a friendly manner, and wants to “help” you, they are probably trying to redirect you to a tourist trap store, and will get a small cut of whatever you buy. Just saying,” someone advised. Another person added, “Or they are trying to loot you. When I visited with my family, more often than not strangers would ask my dad to exchange dollars for thai bhat (read it as fake USD). And tell he would sell it at half price as there are no atm machines that takes their credit card :D”

5. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

“Dubai.. it’s a beautiful and impressive city but in terms of things to do it really doesn’t have a ton to offer other than fancy malls, etc.,” one person admitted. Someone else added, “I spent 2 days in Dubai and another 2 in Abu Dhabi and i felt that i didn’t cover half of what I wanted to see. Dubai is just a fancy concrete jungle, but the architecture can be fascinating.”

6. Venice, Italy

“Venice- just one aspect that was a bit of a mood killer…men (usually south Asian) selling roses around the main square in the evenings. Usually geared towards obvious couples. But often they would just come by and hand the rose over to the woman and usually the instinct is to take what is handed to you. Then they would bug you to pay for it and if you try to give it back they won’t take it or tell the guy that he needs to buy it to show that her loves her etc,” one person shared.

7. Honolulu, Hawaii

“I live in Honolulu and I gotta say, Honolulu itself is tourist trap-y. Waikiki is so chock-full of tourist traps aimed toward Asian tourists it’s crazy. Like an indoor gun range where 50 rounds is like $100 because private gun ownership is a foreign concept to them. Mainland American tourists get subject to it too,” someone advised.

8. Albufeira, Portugal

“I’ve never disliked a place so much before going to Albufeira. What a waste of a beautiful spot with a neat little town. The place was crawling with drunk British people and all of the shops/sidewalks had the same cheap trinkets,” one person complained.

9. South Beach, Miami, Florida

“South Beach, Miami. There is a stretch of Ocean Drive where every art deco hotel has turned into a sketchy place to get roofied. People stand in the street and offer drink specials if you come inside, but they are all scams. The food is bad as well. Outside of these 8 or 10 blocks, South Beach is actually pretty cool. And Miami is a lot of fun. But from 5th street to about 14th street, it’s a total tourist trap,” one person shared.

10. Santorini, Greece

“Santorini is off my list for the same reason. Gorgeous, yes, but you can find similar enough experience in mainland Greece without paying a kidney for the ferry and feeling like I’m in a never ending street party due to the crazy amount of tourists. I think most of the people just go there because other people went and I’m not one that loves crowds unless there is some specific reason to,” someone shared.

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10 Best Non-Touristy Cities to Visit in Turkey

Which places to visit in Turkey? Here’s an overview of the best 10 non-touristy cities to visit in Turkey and reasons why you should visit them, written by the Turkish travel blogger Doruk from toptiertraveler .

Thanks to its amazing diversity, Turkey is without a doubt one of the best countries in the world to visit for tourists.

It’s really difficult to make a list of cities to visit in Turkey since each city (and even regions inside cities) in this beautiful country is distinct from one another and they all offer unique experiences to their visitors.

Although you can come up with this conclusion pretty easily, the majority of people are unaware of it.

For the overwhelming majority of visitors, Istanbul and Ankara are the top destinations, though cities like Bursa and Trabzon are completely ignored. However, if you have the time and resources, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit some of Turkey’s lesser-known but equally beautiful cities.

“If you have the time,” is the main phrase here. Since Turkey is such a large country, some of the cities on this list would require you to drive (if you have a rental car) or take buses or trains for long distances.

However, once you arrive at each of your destinations, you will undoubtedly realize that the long trip was well worth it.

Before moving on to the list, there’s one more thing I’d like to note.

Turkey has a long and fascinating history, as you will learn while reading (or you might already know this if you have visited the country).

Millions of people have called Anatolia home, from prehistoric civilizations to the mighty empire of Rome and the Ottomans. This has resulted in a cultural and historical richness in modern-day Turkey, which is what distinguishes each of the cities on this list.

The east and west, the north and south, are all very different from one another, and many visitors feel as though they are entering a new country each time they visit a new region.

Reading Tip: 9 Beautiful Places to visit in Turkey

That being said, it is now time to move on to the overview of the 10 best non-touristic cities to visit in Turkey…

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Bursa was given the nickname “Yeşil Bursa” (Green Bursa) thanks to the numerous parks and beautiful mountains inside and around the city.

It was once the capital of the Ottoman state, and its importance as an industrial center is still felt today. In the winter, the ski resort of Mount Uludag, which overlooks it, is a popular destination for skiers.

In the summer, the mountain provides relief from the heat and breathtaking views. You can take the teleferik to the summit.

Another place to go to is Cumalkizik, a preserved Ottoman village just outside of the city center with quaint cobblestone streets, which offers a glimpse into the traditional Turkish way of life; come here for the huge village breakfast spreads.

Trabzon is a beautiful city for two reasons: it is located on the Black Sea in northern Turkey, and the Pontic Mountains pass through it, giving it a hill-station feel.

The region offers a unique viewpoint on Turkey, with plenty of quiet moments. A popular place to explore is the Sumela Monastery, established by the Greek Orthodox Church in 346 AD.

Here in Trabzon you can: spend the night near the Uzun Göl or Long Lake, watch the sunset over the Black Sea at Boztepe, and pay your respects to the nation’s founding father at the Trabzon Ataturk Kosku museum.

Trabzon also has its own Hagia Sophia, which is not to be confused with Istanbul’s!

3. Kusadasi (Aydin)

Kusadasi is a lively and pleasant city to visit, and it is a perfect holiday destination thanks to the various package-tour companies that operate here.

Tourists will enjoy a variety of hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs along the coast, with the party scene being particularly memorable. What’s more surprising is that, despite these amenities, Kusadasi (Aydin) is still less common than its neighbors Izmir and Mugla.

Kusadasi is well worth a visit due to its proximity to some interesting historical and natural sites, in addition to the stunning beaches and spectacular views of the sea.

The ancient site of Ephesus is interesting to visit, and the Dilek Peninsula National Park is perfect for getting back to nature.

4. Canakkale

The seaport of Canakkale is situated on Turkey’s Dardanelles strait’s Asian coast, in an area rich in ancient and modern history, as well as time-tested myths and legends. In fact, many of Canakkale’s sights and activities are connected to the city’s most popular stories.

The wonderful city of Canakkale, which was first inhabited about 6,000 years ago during the Copper Age, has seen numerous invading armies pass through the area and has been ruled by a number of different states.

The legendary Trojan Wars and the Gallipoli Campaign, the most well-known battle between the Allies and the Ottomans in World War I, both took place nearby, as did the Greek mythology epic love story Hero and Leander.

Going on a historical tour of Gallipoli, visiting the many museums inside the city, admiring the massive castles, and paying your respects to the martyrs of the deadly First World War are the best activities to do here.

5. Sanliurfa

Many people visit Sanliurfa, also known as Urfa and “the Prophet’s City,” for pilgrimages or to renew their spirits. It’s intoxicating to walk around the nearby bazaar, trying to take in all that’s going on. It has a distinct Middle Eastern flavor.

Though the city is increasingly evolving as a result of urban development projects, the beautiful Dergah Park and Mosque Complex serves as a reminder of the city’s ancient past. Anyone visiting Urfa should make a point of visiting the ancient Gobekli Tepe temple.

Konya is a romantic city that would appeal to poets and dreamers alike. It’s no wonder that in the 13th century, Mevlana Rumi, the famous Sufi poet and whirling dervish, wrote his famous, heartfelt verses here.

Your first stop should definitely be the Mevlana Museum, which is adorned with beautiful roses and houses the tomb of the renowned poet.

Its Semahane contains a museum of historical religious objects. Visit the Alaeddin Tepe park in the evening for a stroll and a cup of Turkish tea. Other fine arts are represented in Konya by the Tile Museum and the Museum of Wooden and Stone Carving, ensuring that all art lovers have a great time!

The rolling hills of the Cukurova area, immortalized in Yaşar Kemal’s classic novel Memed, My Hawk, surround Adana, Turkey’s sixth largest city, which sits alongside the Seyhan River.

It’s best known for making Turkey’s Adana kebab, and foodies will almost certainly make a point of trying it in one of the city’s restaurants when they visit. On the other side, this city has a lot more to offer tourists.

The hinterland of Adana is riddled with archaeological sites and historic tourist attractions, making it one of the best places to visit. It’s also a good place to start because you can travel to Turkey’s eastern Mediterranean region from here.

8. Gaziantep

Foodies are familiar with Turkey’s Baklava Center. Gaziantep’s sweet treats are well-known around the world. There’s a lot to see and do apart from the sugar rush, though.

The Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep is a renowned tourist destination. The museum houses one of the world’s most significant collections of Roman period mosaic floor art, which was all rescued from the nearby Belkis-Zeugma archaeological site before it was flooded by the Birecik Dam’s waters.

Wandering through Gaziantep’s old town is one of the city’s true pleasures. Its numerous baklava shops and compact bazaar alleys are densely packed with traditional craftwork stores and historic coffee houses that could easily occupy an entire day.

Mardin’s narrative reads like a “who’s who” of conquest. Assyrians, Arabs, Seljuk dynasties, Kurdish, Persian, Mongols, and Ottomans have all battled for control of the town.

Today, a maze of labyrinthine alleyways runs under a cliff ridge, offering plenty of old-world atmosphere and events.

Thanks to its abundance of ancient buildings, some of which have been converted into luxury hotels, Mardin’s timeless allure is attracting a new wave of visitors who want to soak up the cultural heritage.

Kars, in the east of Turkey, is known as the “Winter Wonderland” because of its high altitude and harsh weather conditions. This city  has snow for the majority of the year. As a result, Kars is home to Sarikamis, a fantastic ski resort nestled in the Allahuekber Mountain Range’s foothills.

Another feature of Kars worth noting is the city’s Armenian presence. Even today, a sizable proportion of the population has Armenian ancestors.

The ruins of the ancient Armenian city of Ani, which dates back to medieval times, is the most prominent landmark here. Aside from the beautiful churches that still stand tall and proud, the scenery in Ani is also breathtaking.

To summarize, Turkey is a nation that is rich in contrast and diversity. Each of the cities on this list is distinct in its own way; whether it’s natural beauty or historical significance, each city has a story to tell.

And one thing is certain: getting out of the tourist traps of Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir is the perfect way to make your journey to Turkey truly unforgettable.

Reading Tip: 25 photos that will trigger your wanderlust for Turkey

About the Author

Hello everyone! I am Doruk Karadag, a full-time student in Ankara, Turkey, and also a travel blogger at toptiertraveler.com .

I have always had a passion for traveling and I hope you enjoy reading my posts. To find out more about me and my blog, you can check out my socials: Facebook , Twitter and Pinterest .

2 thoughts on “10 Best Non-Touristy Cities to Visit in Turkey”

Onece often I have visited Turkey. Really turkey is most beautiful country in the world. If setuation become normal I will visit tukey again insaallah. Thanks for informatin about these tourist place.

Thank you! And hopefully, you get to visit Turkey again soon!

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