safe travel in turkish

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Is Turkey Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Turkey : Safety by City

Turkey is a country in the Mediterranean, situated in the Anatolian region of West Eurasia.

Turkey shares its borders with Bulgaria and Greece to the west, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia to the northeast, Syria, Iraq, and Iran to the southeast and flaunts the Black Sea coastline to the north, the Aegean Sea in the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the southwest.

You won’t go wrong going to Turkey: it offers a skyline you won’t easily forget, filled with domes and minarets of various sizes and heights, Roman ruins and contrast between a coastline stretched against a mountainous backdrop of Lycia as well as Pamphylia’s sunny beaches.

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

And though Turkey’s beaches are its most famous feature, don’t forget that winter sports, especially skiing, are very popular in Turkey between December and March with temperatures at a constant below freezing point.

• Warnings & Dangers in Turkey

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Turkey is safe to visit if you avoid some parts of it - namely those near the border with Syria. You should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops, and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists here, too.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Generally, transport in Turkey is rather safe and reliable, though if you're driving you should keep in mind that local drivers in the country are reckless and tend to ignore traffic rules and signs.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

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

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

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

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The majority of violent crime happens near the Syrian borders, where kidnappings, muggings, and assaults have been reported. Terrorist groups here usually target those involved in humanitarian work or journalism.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

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

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

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

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

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

• So... How Safe Is Turkey Really?

Turkey is mostly safe when it comes to crime and its biggest risks stem from its political situation and terrorism risks.

However, that isn’t to say that violent, as well as petty crimes, don’t exist in Turkey, because they do, especially in Istanbul.

Snatching, pickpocketing, and mugging are the most common kinds of petty crime.

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

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

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

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

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

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

• How Does Turkey Compare?
• Useful Information

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

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

The coastline bordering the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot and dry summers and mild, wet winters, while the coastline bordering the Black Sea has a temperate climate with warm winters and cool, wet summers. Generally, the best time to visit Turkey is during April, May, September, and October as they are pleasantly warm. The summer months from June through to September are very hot.

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

Travel Insurance

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

Turkey Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Turkey - Safety by City

Explore turkey.

• Turkey Citizenship by Investment: Your Gateway to a Vibrant Nation
• 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Turkey
• 10 Safest Cities in Turkey
• 16 Pros and Cons of Living in Turkey
• 10 Most Beautiful Castles in Turkey
• Where to Next?

60 Reviews on Turkey

One thing, most of the terrorist attacks of 2016 and 2017 were linked to isis. It costed a lot of innocent lives. Kurdish terrorist organisation (pkk) is still a concern though everything started to settle down after Turkish armed forces TSK stormed the borders.

The Kurd terrorist group dose not pose a threat for tourists, it only targets the government

They actually said to target tourists to hurt the tourist revenue

Sadly, no. Especially in eastern Turkey, it targets many civilians. although the EU wants people to think that it’s a peaceful group they have mostly killed, civilians, unfortunately.

6 People just died, and 80+ injured by a street bomb November 14, 2022.

Feel free to travel to Turkey. Recently there isnt any terrorist attack from any parties. At recent past it happens at special days at crowded marching etc. If you are afaraid just avoid going city big city centers at special days.

The page is laughable

This page is so wrong its laughable. Overall risky is High? its probably safer than the united states or the UK. People in turkey are very nice. they also have great coffee, when it comes to women i i would agree with the page but mugging, pick pocketing, and terrorism are not issues at all. there hasten been a terrorist attack in turkey in over 100 years. and if there is one its extremely unlikely you’ll be a victim because they mainly attack the government and never attack tourist destinations. turkey has a lot of reasons to go there. you got ancient ruins from the ottoman empire, the abalone empire, the Assyrian empire, the Persian empire, its one of the most beautiful places on earth

Hi it’s a bit confusing saying there haven’t been terrorist attacks and then saying they mainly attack the government. Can I just clarify with my plans to drive all through north Turkey and into Armenia and then return through central Turkey to the southwest and up the coast back into Bulgaria. I’ll obviously steer very clear of the Syrian border. Is this a sensible and safe plan?

it is laughable.

I was hoping for a trip and even learning some Turkish, but the bombing yesterday on a busy road in Istanbul killing people shopping has put me off. I am American and just read America or Kurds are being blamed by Turkey. What? That was the nail in the coffin so to speak.

Im confused, Terrorisim or not ???

Unfair rating! Please read

As an American woman, I have traveled to Turkey many times due to my spouse being from there.

This rating is very unfair –ranking just barely above the safety of countries that are crime havens.

You literally never hear about rapes, murders, petty-crime. One good thing that comes from having a Despot as a leader, is people are frightened of breaking the law.

You couldn’t pay me to visit some places like Mexico.

Turkey has 80 million people and is the size of Texas – so terrorism is about as much of a treat there as it is in any European country.

It is a gorgeous country full of amazing history, food, and friendly people – modern and tolerant people.

Like most people visiting Turkey, I have only been to places like Istanbul, Antalya, Fethiye.

I don’t think when people are asking about vacationing in Turkey, they are visiting anywhere near the Syrian border (Turks don’t even visit those areas).

I’ve been out at night on my own and never worry about my safety, as I do here in the USA. I love my trips there!

Pancho the great ?

Whilst much of what you say about Turkey is quite true i’m afraid the ” Texas” bit is just not true ?neither as the borders stand now ! or even less so if the US were to return land it stole from Mexico during its struggle with “ Pancho the great “ .

“You literally never hear about rapes, murders, petty-crime.” girl you sure about that?? as a native, femicides and rapes are happening nearly EVERYDAY. and they dont even arrest criminals. think twice before spreading false information. you are just lucky bcuz someone didnot rape and dismember you and easily get away with it.

Why are you lying x? Turkey is safer then most countries in the world. It is not true that criminals dont get arrested. Criminals of rape and murder getting more punishment then European countries

no it is not.

you hear about rapes in turkey every f’ing day.

This was my dream trip. I watch a lot of Turkish films to learn language, but now this bombing of a busy pedestrian street in Istanbul has me changing my mind especially since I just read Turkey is whispering bomb was fault of Kurds or America. America? Seriously?

Mexico is Probably as Safe as Turkey for Tourists!

We’ll, just to reassure you about Mexico, I live and travel throughout this country. What is dangerous for a US government employee, vis a vis kidnappings etc, is not necessarily the case for tourists. Caution is needed everywhere in the world, including Brooklyn, New York! Thanks for weighing in on Turkey! It seems the most helpful sources are those that live in the country in question.

Get your facts right and stop blaming Turkey!!!!

Sure, whatever fits your agenda, “Travel Enthusiasts”. That Kurdish terrorist group doesn’t target the government, but us, the people!!! Go check some of the explosions that were undertaken by PKK in Turkey! After all, you were not there and you never had to lose one of your loved ones because of those sick, disgusting pigs. Shame on you!

Unlike this article terrorism attack risk is too low

This article is really so exaggrated.Turkey is absolutely same with U.S .All the countries have dangerous streets like Skid Row Street in Los Angeles.It doesn’t make dangerous whole country.By the way there is no risk about terrorism if you don’t visit east side of Turkey.But the other risks are accurate.You need to protect yourself from muggling especially if you are in a crowded city like Istanbul or Ankara but this risk is low in Izmir,Antalya and the other touristic cities.Izmir is one of the safest city in Turkey so I suggest you to visit there if you are so worried about safety BUT I need to say that visiting Istanbul and visiting Los Angeles are exactly the same in terms of security.

You can sleep on lara beach !

Southcoast. S east /east ankara ist izmir food 7. 10. 10 View 10. 10. 6 Seaswim 10. – 3 Safety luxury towns 10 10. 6 Comfort 7. 10. 10 Price. $$$ $ $$$$ Alanya antalya fethiye bodrum anamur mersin Antep adana urfa diyarbekir hatay bitlis tunceli erzurm agri van The only place i dont know is the north coast And not interested in. You will enjoy Turkey if you visit. You take a risk of a country have a blast more than the europe combine. You go to a country that requires no visa. So anybody can come in. You should visit Turkey while you are young, for honeymoon. Just don’t leave the wife after meeting russian german girls. Turkey is probably the best place to visit in the world , just not to live in it. Unless you are a footballer. 🙂 I dont agree with east is more gangerous. Ankara and istanbul is more valnurable.

you are so wrong

I will still go to turkey cause it is-sure it borders syria but it does not let any terorists go to turkey

Felt safer than mentioned here.

Felt safer than mentioned here, place is full of helpful people.

We drove 100 of miles from Istanbul, Cappadocia and Antalya.

No one tried to scam or anything, people are helpful and friendly.

as a tourism geographer, this review is full of lies, we are safe. of course everyone know that media is giving people stereotypes in all channels.

As a native

It is truly unfair. 45? So you’re saying we’re worse than many African countries. Make it 25 if that helps you push your agenda.

Well, Turkey is safe. If you research on YouTube you gotta see. Also Turkey is one of the most popular destinations in the world as i know. (6th 8th something like that) There is no terrorism

This article was so wrong ppl!

Thats a shame that showing a perfect country that bad. As a Italian person, I have been in Turkey a lot and what you mentioned in this article is so not true at all. I have been in Istanbul Ankara Izmır Antalya Fethıye Mersin Kapadoccia Samsun and Rıze. Istanbul and Ankara are mix cities. They are modern but that much religious in the same time. There are living locals from both sides in there. Izmır Antalya Fethıye and Mersin was just sea culture. I had so many Turkish friends in there and they are def pro-eu. Locals and tourists women were wearing so free and modern. Bars and clubs were also good as much as I didnt think. I even joined pride walk eith thousand of Turkish ppl years ago in Mersin and Izmır. So not expected at all! Kapadoccia was amazing, I cant even say something. Rıze and Samsun had a wheather and forest same as I saw in Ukraine but locals were religious in there. What I see is; South and west sea coast european and safe, capital and Istanbul are mix, north is religious.

Life expectancy in Turkey is higher than in USA as of 2021. I dunno what they are talking about XD

Life expectancy?

That’s because USA people eat sooo much unhealthy processed and fast food and die from diabetes, heart disease, cancers, dementia, and obesity, not because it’s any more or less dangerous. However, USA does not border Syria type dangers. It has its Issues but not that.

Atatürk Airport is out of operation for public aviation since April 6, 2019. All flights are transferred to Istanbul Airport, in Arnavutköy, except for military and freight. The new Istanbul Airport is serviced by Havaist bus services from various locations in Istanbul.

Not a place to visit.

I just got back from Turkey and that place is horrible. They find every way to exploit you once they know you are a tourist. Taxi drivers drive soo reckless they dont care. They cheat you asking for more money, the switch your cash if you are not watching lying you gave them less once the notes look almost the same. They rip you off. My overall experience with the taxi, people and driving was so horrible I am never going back or advice anyone to go.

How easy to critisize the whole country with a single nasty experience which is highly doubtful… Shame on you…

I couldn’t agree more Garvin Smith on every single fact you mentioned. I would never go back to Turkey:((

July 09, 2022

Absolutely true, had one of the worst experiences in Turkey, the Cab driven threaten u , cheat u and when we complained to the cops at the airport they did nothing about, it. Absolutely disastrous day with uber cabas well. Not safe at all, please avoid this nation if its in your travel list. Absolutely not worth it

How current is this article?

Why are there no dates of when this article was posted, or when comments were posted? How current is this article? Is this as of August 2021?

I was wondering the exact same thing! Would be nice to have some context here…

Come on. Turkey is one of the nicest and safest country to visit. Delicious food, nice people, and beautiful women. And there many ancient ruins to enjoy and wonderful sceneries. The USA or UK are much less safer for tourists.

I travelled through Turky for 1 month and I would have stayd longer if my visa had allowed it. Turkey is a great country with tje most hospitable people in the world. I travelled to Istanbul, Ankara, Konya and Trabzon. The further away you get from Istanbul the friendlier the people get, and the cheaper and better the food gets (I love Istanbul anyways). I have to say that I never felt unsafe or uneasy during my whole trip.

Where are u from?

Your title lists 9 cities in Turkey. 7 of them is in green (safety high), and two of them is orange (safety medium) where almost all of the countries people live (istanbul). As a little math and lets say you are right about the safety level of medium cities, the overall ratio must be at least 65, where you have chosen 45… Congratulations…

Turkey is safe and exciting

I have to say this: I think saying that Turkey has a HIGH risk is not fair, not fair at all. From personal experience and from the experience of friends and family who have visited multiple cities in Turkey, we can all say that Turkey deserves a much better rating. It’s currently rated with a 45 on the Safety Index and imho this should be closer to 70 or more. I will mention why I think this is the case below.

Safety wise, I feel Turkey has a lot of safe cities and just a few areas in a few cities that are rather dangerous. But you can’t give it such a low rating just because of that. This country is filled with friendly, welcoming people. These people are hospitable and they will even help you if you have trouble. Just to give you an example: my phone was stolen in a market and some seller there saw what had happened. He came right over, talked to me and encouraged me. I was sad that I had lost some important numbers. It honestly felt good to have someone to talk to at that moment. And like this person, there are so many in Turkey.

Most people that have visited this country have a good impression of it and its people. And there’s so, so much to see and do here. Their food is amazing, they like to haggle when trying to sell you something and I can understand that – it’s just their nature – and maybe some people are put off by this thing but not me. I see why they do it and sometimes, it’s fun to negotiate a bit.

I haven’t yet been to a city that I did not like. There’s always one or more things to like. Visited Alanya, Istanbul, Antalya, Bursa and Kusadasi. All great cities, with some pickpockets here and there (but which relatively big city doesn’t have them?). And I don’t see Turkey having a High terrorism risk. Maybe medium, yes. You never know what can happen of course, but we should just scare people away like that.

I visited Turkey before COVID 19 hit, and again at the end of Nov/Dec 2021… I traveled solo, I took precautions as I would in any other country. people are mostly friendly and helpful, except for some of the staff at The New Airport, especially the female attendants for the Queue, I had never felt so much aggression towards people, I thought this is not a good start. Remember the tourist pays your salary.

Apart from this, I enjoyed Istanbul very much and I will return again. The only other Negative I felt was the older Male Receptionist at the Hotel I stayed at I was afraid of because practically every time I used the lift he came in beside me stood so close in my personal space and stared me out. Needless to say, I moved to another Hotel.

There is currently war in Ukraine and the safety level is around 30. But normal day in Turkey is 45? How recent is this? There is no war, terrorism, or anything like that in here right now. I am Turkish but I lived in Italy, France and traveled most of the EU. I would say might not be as safe as Florence but bigger cities like İzmir, Ankara, and İstanbul are a lot safer than cities like Athens and Budapest, etc.

You might need to be careful about taxi drivers that might try to overcharge you or pickpocketers like in every big city, especially in İstanbul. But other than that there is nothing to ‘get scared’. -March 2022

Love Turkey ❤️

I am Australian born from Italian parents and I also think that this is wrong, I went for 5 weeks between Istanbul, Antalya, Kas, Fethiye and back to Istanbul and yes there are people who tried to get extra money here and there out of me but hey that is usually normal when you’re a tourist and don’t speak the language… try going to Rome and see what happens… it shouldn’t be but it is, so as tourists you need to lighten up a little and go with the flow of things.

I felt so safe, one time I had to walk for 30 mins through many dark back streets at night as I couldn’t get a taxi and it was raining on and off, and as much as I was worried it was perfectly safe with girls walking through the alleys also.

I never once felt at risk, and everyone is friendly. I went from Dec 6 to Jan 14 2022 and wished I could have stayed.

Am looking to move there for good this year if all goes to plan… had enough of Sydney Australia, born and raised here but this country isn’t what it used to be, slowly going to the dogs because of our fantastic government agendas and prison lockdowns for 2 years.

Rather be closer to Europe and enjoy culture and history…

Hi , I like your reviews, and I’m writing here because ,in few days I’m traveling to Turkey myself 65 woman plus a dog on my backseat of the car . So , of course I have some worriers about turkies people . I’ve been few times to Istambul . This time , just west coast , along the sea up to Antalia , along nice beaches , to stay a bit warmer than my country can offer. Hope nothing bad could happen to me there .

BEWARE OF THIS

I am a Turkish guy who lives in İstanbul. Kindly warn all of my women fellas, West of Turkey might be safer but mostly Turkey isn’t safe for SOLO WOMEN travelers, those creepy perverts won’t harras you if you are with a man. If you hear someone who tells you that women are very safe in Turkey, that person prabably working for a travelling agency or stu’id as hell.

I totally agree, and yet I am headed there in 9 days. My first time in Turkey was spent only in istanbul. I didn’t want to be among the tourists so I stayed in Istiklal, or so I thought (it was along Tarlabasi). Early morning, middle of the afternoon, early evening…NON-STOP being harassed, followed, hissed at – men just wouldn’t leave me alone. It was very uncomfortable BUT it is my favourite city on earth! I hope it has improved since, but I am sure it has not. Happy to hear Izmir is safe though, and Antalya as I will finally get to visit them on this next trip! Thx for your honest comments, especially a male’s perspective.

This is not objective point. I cant imagine how Italy can be more than 70 point but Turkey is 45. I have never heard something in Turkey. Which happen in İtaly or another European cities

Do NOT go on holiday to Turkey. Every dollar you leave turns into bullets against the Kurds, Syrians, Iraqis and Cypriots murdered by the Turkish state. Turkey has invaded and occupied half of Cyprus for 50 years, part of Syria and is now invading Iraq as well. Turkey is a criminal state that does exactly what Russia does but with the tolerance of the West. Turkey is the country with the most jailed journalists in the world

Revenge on tour guide Manager didn’t like

Our small tourist bus with 12 were arrested as manager of small motel decided one of us had stolen a blanket. Instead of asking us, he had police stop us as we drove off ferry to go to Gallipoli. It took about four hours to find someone had lent a blanket to one traveller who was cold the night before.

Be aware, this is an old article. In current day Turkey’s risk levels are mostly low eventough, it becomes medium sometimes.

The country Has a very good natural landscape and an in – order police and military combatants. But There have been many terrorist attacks, especially in the last few years, if anyone wanted to go there they had to make sure that their belongings are safe.

NOTE: Avoid Walking in the streets at midnight, several crime cases like kidnapping has been reported at the time.

Very distressing

Given how popular Turkey has become for golfing holidays I feel that British citizens need to be aware that, if your Husband dies suddenly in Turkey, as mine did 4 months ago, be prepared that Turkish authorities will impose Muslim culture and therefore rules upon the family. Widows are treated in the same way as divorcees and seen as a threat. I have been in battle with the British consulate to get my beloved husbands belongings back and they just will not let me have them. I am also struggling to obtain a cure of death and will have to wait several more months before I have more information. I cannot grieve for my husband properly and I am desperate for closure on a Turkey. Please wives and girlfriends, be aware of the agony your family will face if you lose your partner in Turkey.

Turkey is safe to visit

Turkey is the best place to visit and it is safe.

As A British Tourist , I would like to say that Turkey is Safe if you follow the rules and Guidelines. There is a risk of Terrorist attacks, but these are only used to Target the Government , Military People and Workers.

Turkey is fine, the government is the worty

I lived in Turkey for many years and my children were born there (Etiler) to their Turkish mother – best food ever, worst traffic ever, sort of insane people (screaming matches all the time) but I did love to go on the roof of my building when the first call to prayer echoed through the city, very, very dramatic. I was able to maintain my status as a hard drinking American but now I guess they are clamping down on that a bit? If you are a typically obnoxious American you will have problems but if you respect Turks they will reciprocate 100% – visit a place on the Bosporus for brunch, you won’t be disappointed- my wife was almost killed at the HSBC bomb site so there is risk

Loved it and will go again soon

I’m a British woman and I cannot say one bad word about Turkey. I think that people’s opinions are shaped by their experiences. I stopped in Istambul for three days en route to Zanzibar as I was flying with Turkish Airlines in 2019. I loved the architecture, I loved the food and people were friendly and helpful. Last year I spent two weeks in Calis Beach, which is next to Fethyie and I had a great time. I also visited Olu Deniz. I enjoyed scuba diving, kayaking and shopping at the Friday’s market in Fethyie. If you don’t drink to excess, don’t take drugs, don’t wander on your own at dark and don’t mix with the wrong crowd, you significantly minimise the risk of trouble anywhere in the world. I spent 9 weeks in South East Asia in 2017, 6 weeks in Mexico in 2018 and 4 weeks in Sri Lanka in 2018 and I never had any problem.

An absolute disastrous experience when I think of Turkey. Airport Taxis are thugs of A grade and very unsafe. Never recommending anybody to travel to Turkey for Tourism. Even if you complain to the cops of the taxi guys threatening you to pay more than the meter , they never bother . Nothing worth seeing here. please dont waste your time and mental peace

Solo woman in 2019. Safe BUT near Grand Bazaar some men loiter and I had one ask me (in a polite tone) sometime around 6pm if I can go home with him but he kept persisting and even walking with me as I walked away! Never experienced that before. He was small and I didnt feel scared but VERY uncomfortable. Also beware of hamams if you have asthma. I had a horrible episode the last day and was almost denied boarding my flight!

Why no mersn

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Article Contents

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

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Turkey - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

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

Do Not Travel To:

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

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

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

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

If you decide to travel to Turkey:

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

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

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

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Quick Facts

Six months beyond date of entry

One page for entry and exit stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

25,000 Turkish lira or 10,000 euros (or equivalent)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy ankara.

1480 Sok No:1 Cukurambar Mah  Cankaya 06530, Ankara Turkey Telephone: +(90) (312) 294-0000 (emergencies only) Fax: +(90) (312) 232-7472 Contact American Citizen Services Ankara

U.S. Consulate General Istanbul Istinye Mahallesi, Üç Şehitler Sokak No.2 Istinye 34460 – Istanbul, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Fax: +(90) (212) 335-9102 Contact American Citizen Services Istanbul

U.S. Consulate Adana Girne Bulvari No. 212, Güzelevler Mahallesi, Yüregir Adana, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Fax: +(90)(322) 455-4141 Contact American Citizen Services Adana

U.S. Consular Agent - Izmir Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555 [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  website for the most current visa and residency permit information.

• In Turkey, contact the nearest Directorate General of Migration Management office to obtain a residence permit.

Obey all Turkish visa regulations and maintain valid residence permits at all times.  The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist with Turkish immigration or visa-related matters.  Turkish authorities enforce immigration laws.

• Passports must be valid for six months beyond your entry date.  You will be  denied entry  into Turkey if there is not enough space for  entry and exit stamps  in your passport.
• Official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye .
• Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Get entry and exit stamps . You must have a Turkish entry stamp to fly domestically.  Get an exit stamp in your passport when leaving the country  or you may face  difficulties re-entering Turkey in the future  and  a fine .
• If you are planning to  work, study, or conduct academic or scientific research  in Turkey, you must receive a visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Turkey. Visit  “Living in Turkey”  on the U.S. Embassy’s website.

Syria:  See the  Syria travel advisory.  The U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended operations in February 2012.  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Syria.  At this time, the Turkey-Syria border is closed except in cases of urgent medical treatment or safety from immediate danger as defined by the Government of Turkey.

Iraq:  See the  Iraq travel advisory .  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Iraq.  The Turkish Government tightly controls entry and exit on the border.

HIV/AIDS restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Turkey.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  The potential for terrorist attacks in Turkey, including against U.S. citizens and interests, remains high.

• Terrorists have previously attacked U.S. interests in Turkey, including the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, and the U.S. Consulate in Adana.
• Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Terrorists have also previously targeted Western tourists and expatriates.

Under laws passed in 2018, Turkish security forces have an expanded legal ability to stop and search individuals and to  detain individuals without charge.

For your own safety:

• Carry a passport or identity document at all times.
• Follow local news sources during your stay to remain abreast of any potential areas, dates, or times of concern.
• Exercise caution and good judgment, keep a low profile, and maintain a high level of vigilance.
• Avoid demonstrations, which may become violent and unpredictable.
• Obey the instructions of Turkish security personnel at all times.

There have also been threats and acts of violence targeting religious minorities, groups, institutions, and places of worship in Turkey. The level of anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic sentiment remains significant.

Protests and gatherings:  Public gatherings are common in Turkey and can include protests or demonstrations, holiday celebrations, family events, sporting events, and political events in the lead up to elections and following the announcement of election results. U.S. citizens should

• Avoid demonstrations and gatherings, as they may become violent and unpredictable. 
• Be aware celebratory gunfire is common in some areas and has resulted in deaths in recent years. 
• Follow local authorities instructions, police may take action to disperse the group, including possibly using teargas or detaining participants, even when the government has approved gatherings.

Crime:  Overall street crime in Turkey is low; however, you should use the same precautions you would take in the United States. The following types of crime have been reported in Turkey:

• Pick-pocketing ,  purse snatching , and  mugging.  Carry only necessary items when in tourist areas. 
• Residential crime  occurs more often in major cities, with criminals targeting ground floor apartments for theft.
• Sexual assault  has occurred in Turkish baths ( hamams ) or spas, in taxis, and when traveling alone at night. Assaults involving  date rape drugs  have also been reported.
• Confidence schemes  occur where travelers are tricked into ordering food or drinks at a restaurant, and then are charged incredibly high prices. Patronize well-established restaurants and ask to see a menu with prices before ordering anything.
• Scams  are common in Turkey, particularly internet scams involving people who met online. Typically, the person in Turkey asks the other person to wire large sums of money to provide financial assistance.  Do not send money to someone you have never met in person.  Exercise due diligence when purchasing jewelry, rugs, or real estate. See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Eastern and Southeastern Turkey: We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens reconsider travel to specific areas in eastern and southeastern Turkey, and do not travel to areas near the Syrian or Iraqi borders.

U.S. Government employees are subject to travel restrictions  to the provinces of Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hakkari, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Siirt, Sirnak, Tunceli and Van.  Mount Ararat , in Agri province, is a special military zone, and  access permission must be obtained before coming to Turkey  from a Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

The following incidents and activities have taken place in eastern and   southeastern Turkey :

• Terrorist attacks:  Terrorist groups, including Da’esh, also referred to as The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) or The Islamic State of Iraq and ash Sham (ISIS), and the PKK (the Kurdistan Workers’ Party), have conducted large-scale attacks in the area, including suicide bombings, ambushes, and the detonation of car bombs, improvised explosive devices, and other homemade weapons. The PKK has attacked Turkish military and police personnel in the eastern and southeastern provinces, occasionally harming bystanders.
• Restricted access:  Turkish security forces control access to the southeastern provinces of Hakkari, Mardin and Sirnak along the Iraqi border, and the entire Turkey-Syria border.  Do not photograph or video Turkish military operations or attempt to enter military installations anywhere in Turkey.
• Shootings:  Turkish towns located along the border with Syria have been struck by bullets and artillery rounds that originate in Syria, some resulting in deaths or injuries.
• Roadblocks:  Use commercial air travel whenever possible while traveling to southeastern Turkey.  If road travel is necessary, drive only during daylight hours and on major highways.  The Turkish  Jandarma  (rural police) monitors checkpoints on roads. Cooperate if stopped at a checkpoint. Be prepared to provide identification and vehicle registration. Remain calm, do not make any sudden movements, and obey all instructions.  We strongly discourage the use of public transportation in the southeastern region.
• Demonstrations:  Violent clashes have taken place between Kurdish groups and Turkish police resulting from organized demonstrations.
• Curfews:  The Turkish Government has instituted temporary curfews in cities throughout the southeast due to blockades of certain neighborhoods by the PKK. Adhere to any locally imposed curfews.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 155 and contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We urge U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault to contact the U.S. Embassy or closest consulate.

 We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find resources for accommodation and flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance and visit the  Embassy webpage  for resources.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Always carry with you a form of official government photo identification, such as a residence permit or copy of your passport.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  Turkish authorities may not inform U.S. officials of dual nationals arrested in Turkey.  See our  webpage  for further information on arrests.

• Insulting the State:  It is illegal to show disrespect to the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, or to insult the Turkish Government, flag, President, or security forces,  including on social media . Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices that could be considered controversial or provocative.
• Drug offenses:  Turkish law enforcement is  very aggressive  in combating illegal drugs. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are very strict, and include heavy fines and jail sentences between four and 20 years.
• Cultural artifacts:  Turkish law has a broad definition of “antiquities” and makes it a crime to remove any from the country. If you buy antiquities, use authorized dealers and get museum certificates for each item. Failure to have a receipt and certificate at departure can result in  your arrest , and  jail time . Contact the  Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements.
• Male dual nationals over the age of 18 may be subject to Turkish conscription and compulsory military service. Consult officials at Turkish Embassies or Consulates with any questions before entering Turkey.
• Counterfeit goods:  Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if widely available. They are both illegal to bring back into the United States and to purchase locally.
• Religious proselytizing:  There is no law against religious proselytizing.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  Homophobia, transphobia, and intolerance towards homosexuality are widespread throughout Turkey. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals are  not protected by anti-discrimination laws  and have been the targets of violence in recent years. References in the law relating to “offenses against public morality,” “protection of the family,” and “unnatural sexual behavior,” are sometimes used as a basis for abuse by law enforcement officials. In addition, the law states that “no association may be founded for purposes against law and morality,” a clause which has been used by authorities in attempts to shut down or limit the activities of associations working on LGBTI matters.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:   The Turkish constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of state services, employment, education and access to health care. However, access to buildings and public transportation for the disabled in most cities is quite limited, and generally, accessibility for people with disabilities in Turkey is poor. Airports and metro stations are typically accessible, but other forms of public transport (buses) are not.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  The Embassy is aware of multiple sexual assaults against U.S. citizens in Turkey, including assaults against tourists traveling alone or in small groups, and at spas and  hamams.

• If you are sexually assaulted, please seek immediate help from the Turkish National Police, Turkish Health Services, or nearest hospital if you feel safe doing so.
• We urge you to contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Earthquakes:  Earthquakes occur throughout Turkey. Make contingency plans and leave emergency contact information with family members outside Turkey. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the  U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  and at  Ready.gov. For more information on disaster preparedness, please click on the following links:

• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• FEMA: Earthquakes
• FEMA for Kids: Emergency Preparedness
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Earthquake Preparedness

Medical care provided in Turkish hospitals varies greatly. Though new private hospitals in Ankara, Antalya, Izmir and Istanbul have modern facilities, equipment, numerous U.S.-trained specialists, and international accreditation, some still may be unable to treat certain serious conditions. Health care standards are lower in small cities in Turkey.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance   to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Turkey to ensure the medication is legal in Turkey. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Some medications may be unavailable in Turkey.

For U.S. citizens who live in Turkey , please see the Embassy’s website for  information on the Turkish General Health Insurance (GHI) law . If you are considering enrolling in Turkish GHI, carefully research what is and is not covered. Once you enroll in GHI, your coverage can only be cancelled if your residence permit expires or if you no longer reside in Turkey.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads in Turkey range from single-lane country roads to modern, divided motorways. Highways in the tourist-frequented western, southwestern, and coastal regions of Turkey are generally in good condition and are well maintained, while conditions in other areas vary.

Be extremely cautious while driving at night.  Driving after dark, especially in rural areas, requires extra caution due to dangers such as livestock on the road or narrow unmarked or unpaved roads.

In case of an  accident  or  car trouble :

• Pull to the side of the road, turn on hazard lights, and use reflector triangles.
• For accidents with only vehicular damage, exchange insurance information, take photos of the accident before moving the vehicles, and depart if both sides agree. Turkish law requires drivers to fill out a Turkish-only form and provide pictures of the damage. Non-Turkish speakers should call and wait for the police.
• For accidents with injury  or a disagreement, remain at the site of the accident.  Do not move the vehicle  – even out of the way – until the Traffic Police arrive. Report the accident to the Traffic Police (dial 155) or Jandarma (dial 156). Get a certified copy of the official report from the Traffic Police office (this can take several days).
• The owner of the damaged vehicle should also apply to the customs authority with his passport and accident report before attempting to repair the vehicle or leave the country without the vehicle.
• When in doubt, it is best to call the Traffic Police or the Jandarma in the event of an accident.

Traffic Laws:  Drive defensively at all times. Drivers routinely ignore traffic regulations, including driving through red lights and stop signs, and turning left from the far right lane. These and other similar driving practices cause frequent traffic accidents.

• Penalties for  driving drunk  (blood alcohol levels at or above 0.05 percent) include a  fine  and the individual’s license being confiscated for  six months .
• Using cell phones while driving is  illegal  and can lead to a  fine .

Driver’s license requirements include:

• For stays up to 180 days : A valid U.S. driver’s license or an International Driving Permit and a U.S. driver’s license is acceptable.
• For stays longer than 180 days : Obtain a Turkish driver’s license from the Turkish Security Directorate, Traffic Department (Emniyet Müdürlüğü, Trafik Hizmetleri Başkanlığı).
• A vehicle can be brought into Turkey for up to six months. Find information at the Turkish Touring and Automobile Club.

Public Transportation:  Major cities in   Turkey have extensive public transportation options including taxis, subways, ferries, trains, buses and mini-buses. Licensed cabs are metered. Between cities, Turkey has bus routes, train, and air services.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Turkey’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Turkey’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Turkey should also check U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings website  - select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Turkey . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Turkey

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey.

Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul.  You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners, such as:

• public buildings
• places of worship
• large public gatherings (including major events, public holidays, religious occasions)

There have been a number of recent significant attacks in Istanbul:

• In February 2024, one person was killed in an armed attack on the Çağlayan courthouse by the terrorist group DHKP/C
• In January 2024, one person was killed by two gunmen in the Santa Maria Catholic Church in Sariyer, in an attack claimed by Daesh
• In 2022, six people were killed in an explosion in central Istanbul.

Extremist groups based in Syria, including Daesh and Al-Qaeda linked groups, have the capacity to carry out attacks in neighbouring countries, including Turkey. Daesh has previously targeted border crossings and nearby locations on the Syrian side of the border.

Political situation

Occasional demonstrations can occur in cities and may become violent. Police have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse protests.

Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have led to heightened tensions in the region and demonstrations are ongoing in locations across Turkey. Large demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.

Avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.

Street robbery and pickpocketing

Street robbery and pick-pocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.

Drink and food spiking

Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them so they are not spiked. Be wary of strangers approaching you offering food and drink (which may be drugged), to change money, or to take you to a restaurant or nightclub.

Counterfeit alcohol

In a small number of cases, counterfeit alcohol has caused deaths of tourists. If you have any concerns, seek advice from your tour operator or the Turkish authorities.

Sexual assault

In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff in Turkey. Most sexual assault cases reported to British consular staff in Turkey have happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas. Many were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel workers. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations.

Vehicle safety

Accepting lifts from strangers can be dangerous. Find a registered taxi and note the registration number before entering.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks.

Dress visiting mosques

Dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine to avoid causing offence.

Personal injury claims

There are reports of tourists being encouraged to submit a claim for personal injury if they have experienced gastric illness in Turkey. Find out what you can do if you have suffered a personal injury on the Citizens Advice website . Only make a claim if you have genuinely suffered from injury or illness. If you make a false or fraudulent claim, you may face legal proceedings in the UK or Turkey.

Smoking bans

Smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places. Smoking is restricted in some outdoor areas where cultural, artistic, sports or entertainment activities are held.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Turkey has strict laws against the use, possession and trafficking of illegal drugs. You may receive a fine or prison sentence of 4 to 24 years.

Most towns and cities have stray dogs. Packs congregate in parks and wastelands and can be aggressive. Take care and do not approach stray dogs. If you’re bitten, get medical advice immediately. Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Sale of antiquities

The possession, sale and export of antiquities is illegal. You could be fined and receive a prison sentence of 5 to 12 years. Some historical items found at local markets and in antique shops can be sold within Turkey but are illegal to export. Confirm the legal requirements before purchasing or exporting such items.

Using cameras

Do not take photographs near military or official installations. Ask for permission before photographing people.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality is legal in Turkey. However, many parts of Turkey are socially conservative and showing affection in public could result in unwelcome attention. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Comments about the nation and flag

It is illegal to insult the Turkish nation, state or the national flag, or to deface Turkish currency. These laws can also apply to comments or images online wherever they were uploaded. Offences under these laws carry a penalty in Turkey of a prison sentence of between 6 months and 3 years.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Extreme sports.

If you do an extreme sport, check that adequate safety precautions are in place. British nationals have been injured and killed doing extreme sports. Only use reputable operators. Make sure you are given full instructions and training before your activity. Make sure your travel insurance covers you for all activities you want to do.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Turkey, see information on driving abroad . You must carry a green card in Turkey.

Take care when travelling by road, particularly at night. Approach checkpoints slowly and follow the instructions of security personnel. Roads between major cities are generally in excellent condition, but can be poor in remote, rural areas. Accidents are common and mainly due to poor or reckless driving.

It is illegal not to wear a helmet on motorcycles and mopeds. You may get a large fine if you do not wear a helmet.

Do not drink and drive. The police fine drunk drivers and your licence could be confiscated for 6 months.

Licences and documents

You need either a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) or a valid UK driving licence (notarised in Turkish) to drive in Turkey. The 1949 IDP is not accepted anymore. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

If you stay in Turkey for more than 6 months, you must convert your UK driving licence into a Turkish licence. Provisional driving licences aren’t recognised. If you intend to bring a vehicle registered in another country into Turkey, familiarise yourself with the relevant Turkish customs regulations.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Forest fires.

Forest fires happen frequently in Turkey during summer. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas.

You could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind in forbidden areas. This includes barbeques and discarding cigarette butts in the woods.

If there is a forest fire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities.

If you see a forest fire, call emergency services on 112.

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides across Turkey. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged, making it difficult to travel and reducing essential services.

If you’re in an affected area:

• monitor local media
• follow instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Earthquakes

Many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and tremors. These can be a high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose a risk to life.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Gaziantep and neighbouring provinces in the south-east of Turkey in February 2023. Strong earthquakes may continue to affect the region and it remains heavily damaged.

Follow any advice given by the local authorities.  See the US Federal Emergency Management Agency guidance about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

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Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Latest travel advice

Here’s what you need to know about visiting turkey following iran’s strikes on israel, including the latest foreign office travel advice.

A mere few hours’ plane-ride away, Turkey has become increasingly popular for British tourists in the last few years. It has a one-time capital that straddles two continents, gorgeous beaches lining its Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, and, perhaps most attractive of all, a great exchange rate in the pound’s favour.

However, given the current conflict between Israel and Hamas, and reports of Israel’s retaliatory attacks on Iran on April 19, in response to missile and drone attacks on Israel on April 13, those travelling to Turkey may have concerns about safety — although the UK Foreign Office hasn’t updated its advice to warn tourists of the situation. Most of the country is considered safe to travel to by the Foreign Office, but it warns that demonstrations are taking place in Ankara and Istanbul, and that these could become violent. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a visit.

Has Turkey been affected by the Hamas-Israel conflict?

So far there have been no signs of Turkey being directly impacted by the conflict, although there have been protests outside diplomatic missions in Istanbul, Ankara and other major cities, according to the UK Foreign Office. You should avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops.

On April 13, Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel, 99 per cent of which were successfully intercepted. Turkey was not involved in this latest escalation in the conflict, and the Foreign Office’s travel advice remains as it was previously.

The country’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said at a congress of his AK Party that “we call for restraint from all parties” adding that both sides “must refrain from aggressive acts”. He has also said Turkey will do whatever it can to ease tensions and stop the violence.

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Is it safe to travel to turkey.

It depends on where you’re travelling to but most regions in Turkey are safe and tourist-friendly. However, the Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria, and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

The Foreign Office also considers the threat of terrorism to be very high in the country (more below), and political protests and demonstrations have become violent. So, as with any destination, it pays to stay vigilant and follow the latest travel advice from the Foreign Office, as well as those issued by authorities on the ground.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Turkey • Best hotels in Turkey • 14 of the best hotels in Fethiye

Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

Yes, there’s no reason not to travel to Istanbul right now. However, you should stay vigilant and pay attention to local government advice.

The Foreign Office says that most terrorist attacks in Turkey have taken place in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. Separately, the country is also affected by political demonstrations in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

• Best hotels in Istanbul • Best things to do in Istanbul

Is it safe to travel to Antalya?

Yes, Ankara remains safe to visit. The Israel-Hamas conflict has not impacted the city, aside from the aforementioned demonstrations.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Antalya • Best hotels in Antalya

What is the Foreign Office travel advice?

The Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to areas within 10km of the border with Syria as well as all but essential travel to Sirnak and the province of Hakkari. In the rest of the country, it’s a case of staying vigilant.

The Israel-Hamas war has led to heightened tensions in the region and demonstrations are ongoing in cities across Turkey. The Foreign Office states that demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul, and that visitors should avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may also be disrupted.

Across Turkey more generally, crime rates are low but robberies and thefts are common, particularly pickpocketing. There have also been reports of passports being stolen from rented villas, including from safes, in Didim, Kas, Kalkan and the Fethiye/Hisaronu/Ovacik areas.

Travellers are also advised to avoid any offers of food and drink, which may be spiked, and to be wary if someone offers to take you to a club or restaurant or to help you change currency. Sexual assaults and rapes have also been reported, and have mostly taken place during the busy summer period in coastal regions. In many cases, they involved someone the victim had met earlier on the day of the attack.

Most terrorist attacks in the country to date have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul, and the Foreign Office states that it’s possible that terrorists may target places visited by foreigners such as public buildings, places of worship and major events.

What are Turkey’s entry requirements?

British citizens are able to travel to Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period. If you’re planning to be in the country for longer, you’ll need either a visa or residence permit.

Turkey requires you to have at least 150 days left on the validity of your passport from the day you arrive in the country. You’ll also need a full blank page for the entry and exit stamps.

Here’s what you need to know about the travel advice for neighbouring countries

• Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? • Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?

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Is it safe to travel to Türkiye right now? Latest travel advice

Here is everything we know about travelling to Türkiye amidst the conflict in Israel

Türkiye’s abundance of cultural heritage, fascinating historical sites, great architecture, food and people have made it a go-to holiday destination for decades. Istanbul is an incredibly vibrant city, which straddles two continents, but the country is also known for its beautiful landscape and coastlines. 

However, its proximity to the continuing conflict in Israel , which erupted on Saturday October 7, is causing concern about how safe it is to travel to this region of the world. Here is everything we know about travelling to Türkiye amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. 

Is it safe to travel to Türkiye at the moment? 

Türkiye  has not been impacted by the conflict in Israel.  It depends on where in the country you’re travelling, but the majority of destinations in Türkiye are safe and tourist-friendly. Certain areas have experienced wildfires over the summer, and the UK Foreign Office estimates that the terrorist threat is ‘very high’. However, travelling to Türkiye is not advised against. 

How about Antalya? 

A city with gorgeous beaches which is full of ancient Greek and Roman remnants, Antalya is one of Türkiye’s fastest-growing tourist destinations.  

The province experienced wildfires earlier this year, which began in the forests of Kemer. However, the region has been considered a safe place to travel since the fires were brought under control. 

Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

There is currently no official advice stating that it is unsafe to travel to Istanbul.

What is the UK Foreign Office saying? 

The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to anywhere within 10km of the border with Syria. It also advises against all but essential travel with Sirnak (city) and Hakkari (province). 

Travellers are free to visit the rest of Türkiye, but the advice is to remain vigilant. Political protests can break out unexpectedly and the country is considered to have a ‘very high’ threat of terrorist attacks. The webpage also states that Türkiye is prone to experiencing wildfires during the summer, and recommends taking care when driving through woodland areas. 

What about the Turkey Travel Advisory? 

The advice from the Turkey Travel Advisory is similar to that of the UK Foreign Office. It marks Sirnak, Hakkari and anywhere within 10 km of the Syrian Border as a level four, which means ‘do not travel’. 

Advice about the rest of Türkiye encourages travellers to stay alert, avoid demonstrations and crowds, and to monitor local media for up-to-date information. You can read more about the Turkey Travel Advisory’s recommendations on their webpage. 

How far is Türkiye from Israel? 

Türkiye is 879 km from Israel, or about an hour and a half flight. Türkiye is north of Israel, and the two countries do not share a border. 

Is travel to other countries near Israel safe?

The Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to countries bordering Israel, but advice may change quickly as the violence escalates. 

Read more about the latest  travel advice for Israel and Egypt  and Jordan . 

For more information on how to help those affected by the conflict, you can read our guide on where to donate here . 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.

• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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Is it safe to travel: Turkey

• 6 minute read

• August 28, 2020

Table of Contents

The safe travels stamp by wttc, the safe tourism certification program by tga, covid-19 insurance, istanbul airport, the grand bazaar, sultanahmet mosque, museums in istanbul.

⚠️ Update: November 11, 2021 Entry conditions for international travelers Turkey is open to tourists. All arriving passengers must submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure unless they have proof of being fully vaccinated (no less than 14 days ago) or proof that they have recovered from COVID-19 in the last six months. Certain travelers may be subject to stricter restrictions including mandatory quarantine, such as those who have recently been in Brazil, South Africa, Nepal, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. You may be randomly tested at the airport upon arrival — anyone who tests positive must quarantine for 14 days. All travelers must complete an Entry Form at least 72 hours before their departure. Domestic restrictions Face masks and social distancing are mandatory in public places nationwide. Most businesses are permitted to operate, subject to hygiene and social distancing requirements.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed travel forever. Many international borders remain closed to tourists and most countries have strict restrictions in place. Fortunately, travel is slowly beginning to regain traction. Turkey is one such country where the majority of its international borders are open while it continues to keep up with stringent health and safety practices for all its travelers. We ask the hard question — “Is it safe to travel to Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic?” so you can make the right choices and feel comfortable on your trip.

Turkey is the incredible transcontinental country that straddles Europe and Asia. The history of Turkey dates back centuries to the Ottoman Empire, also known as the Turkish Empire, which came to be one of the world’s most powerful states in the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, Turkey remains vibrant, cosmopolitan, and thriving.

Turkey has opened its borders to certain international travelers. Most travelers are required to submit a negative certificate for a COVID-19 PCR test (taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure) to enter the country if they are unvaccinated.

Read on to discover the answer to the question, is it safe to travel to Turkey?

What do I look out for before planning a trip to Turkey?

Turkey has been awarded the Safe Travels Stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which recognizes their commitment to safety for all travelers. Read more about the WTTC and the new Safe Travels protocols  here .

Alongside the WTTC, the Turkey Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) has also introduced the Safe Tourism Certification Program . Tourist attractions, agencies, and accommodation that adhere to extensive measures imposed for the well-being of travelers will be awarded this certification.

The TGA has outlined criteria for accommodation, food and beverage facilities, and tour and transfer vehicles. From there, the agency has shortlisted a list of certified accommodation facilities, restaurants, and tour and transfer vehicles on the TGA website . Be sure to keep an eye out for this certification when planning your itinerary to Turkey!

The TGA also recommends travelers to purchase the Tourist Protection and Support Insurance with COVID-19 coverage before their travels to Turkey. This policy covers the medical expenses of patients who are treated at hospitals with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. Find out more here .

Post written by: Cheryl Ang

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Explore More of Turkey

How Safe Is It To Travel In Turkey Right Now?

Thinking about traveling to Turkey but unsure about the safety situation? In this article, we will explore the current safety conditions in Turkey, providing you with the essential information you need to make an informed decision. From assessing the political environment to evaluating the ongoing pandemic situation, we’ll take a friendly and comprehensive approach to help you understand how safe it really is to travel to Turkey right now. So, grab your travel plans and join us on this insightful journey!

Table of Contents

Current Security Situation

Terrorism threat.

Turkey has faced numerous terrorism threats in recent years, particularly from groups such as ISIS and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). While the Turkish government has taken steps to combat these threats, there still remains a risk of terrorist attacks in certain areas. Major cities like Istanbul and Ankara have experienced occasional attacks, but it’s important to note that the chances of being affected by terrorism as a tourist are relatively low.

Regional Conflicts and Border Issues

Turkey shares borders with several countries, including Syria and Iraq, which have been plagued by ongoing conflicts in recent years. As a result, there are occasional cross-border incidents and military operations taking place near the borders. It’s advisable to stay updated on the situation and avoid crossing into these conflict zones for your own safety .

Crime and Safety Issues

Like any other country, Turkey has its share of crime, including petty theft and scams targeting tourists. However, violent crimes against visitors are relatively uncommon. By taking basic precautions such as safeguarding your belongings , staying in well-lit areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings, you can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Travel Warnings and Advisories

Government travel warnings.

Various governments issue travel warnings for their citizens considering travel to Turkey. These warnings are typically related to the security situation, terrorism threats, and regional conflicts. It’s essential to review the travel advisories of your home country before planning your trip to Turkey. However, it’s worth noting that while these warnings provide important information, they should not be the sole basis for making travel decisions.

Foreign Embassy/Consulate Advisories

In addition to government travel warnings, foreign embassies and consulates also issue their own advisories for their citizens traveling to Turkey. These advisories often provide specific guidance on safety measures and areas to avoid. It’s recommended to register with your embassy or consulate upon arrival in Turkey, as they can provide valuable assistance in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

Popular Touristic Destinations

Istanbul, a vibrant and historic city, is one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations. However, it has occasionally been targeted by terrorism. Despite these incidents, the city continues to attract millions of visitors each year. Just like in any other major city, it’s essential to exercise caution, especially in crowded tourist areas and during high-profile events.

Known for its unique landscapes and hot air balloon rides, Cappadocia is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s advisable to book tours and activities through reputable operators. Exploring the rocky valleys and ancient cave dwellings is a memorable experience, but it’s important to follow safety instructions and avoid venturing into restricted areas.

Bodrum, a popular coastal resort town, is generally considered safe for tourists. It offers beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and a lively nightlife . As with any tourist destination, it’s advisable to take precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.

Antalya, another coastal city known for its stunning beaches and ancient ruins, is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions and be mindful of your belongings, particularly in crowded tourist areas.

Famous for its natural hot springs and terraces, Pamukkale is a unique tourist destination. While it is generally safe, visitors should be cautious when exploring the cascading white terraces, as slipping on the wet surfaces can be a hazard. Following posted safety signs and wearing appropriate footwear can help ensure a safe visit.

Transportation Safety

Turkey has a well-developed domestic and international aviation network. The country’s major airports meet international safety standards, and airlines prioritize passenger safety. However, it’s always a good idea to check the safety records of individual airlines and follow any guidelines or instructions provided by airport authorities.

Public Transportation

Public transportation , including buses and trains, is widely available and generally safe in Turkey. However, it’s advisable to take precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded areas. It’s also worth noting that road conditions in some rural areas may be less developed, so caution is necessary when traveling to remote destinations.

Taxi Services

Taxis are a common mode of transportation in Turkey, especially in urban areas. To ensure your safety, it’s recommended to use official taxis with registered logos. Negotiating the fare before starting the journey and ensuring the taxi driver uses the meter can help avoid potential scams. Sharing your ride details with a trusted person and using reputable ride-hailing apps can also enhance your safety.

Accommodation and Tourism Facilities

Turkey offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. When choosing a hotel, it’s advisable to select well-established establishments with positive reviews. Taking basic precautions such as ensuring all doors and windows are secure and utilizing hotel safes for valuables can enhance your safety and peace of mind.

Restaurants

Turkey boasts a rich culinary scene, ranging from street food stalls to high-end dining establishments. Food safety standards are generally good, but it’s always advisable to choose restaurants with clean and hygienic environments. Paying attention to local recommendations and avoiding street vendors whose hygiene practices are questionable can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Tour Operators

When booking tours or activities in Turkey, it’s important to use reputable tour operators with good safety records. Check for reviews and recommendations, as well as certifications and licenses. It’s also advisable to inquire about the safety measures taken during the tours, such as well-maintained equipment and trained guides.

Health and Medical Services

Vaccinations and health precautions.

Before traveling to Turkey, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional regarding any necessary vaccinations or health precautions. Routine vaccinations, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, should be up to date. It’s also important to take precautions against food and water-borne illnesses by practicing good hygiene and consuming safe, well-cooked food.

Medical Facilities and Emergency Services

Turkey has a well-established healthcare system, with modern medical facilities and highly trained healthcare professionals. In case of emergencies, dialing 112 will connect you to emergency services. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as well as emergency medical evacuation if necessary.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Cultural sensitivity.

When visiting Turkey, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. It’s advisable to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Public displays of affection may be considered inappropriate in conservative areas, so it’s best to exercise discretion. Familiarize yourself with Turkish customs and traditions to ensure a culturally sensitive and enjoyable visit.

Religious Practices

Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, and Islam plays a significant role in daily life. Visitors should be respectful towards religious practices and customs. When entering mosques , it’s important to remove your shoes, dress modestly, and observe quietness and privacy. Avoid visiting mosques during prayer times unless you intend to participate.

While Turkey is generally more liberal compared to some other Muslim-majority countries, it’s still advisable to dress modestly, particularly in rural areas and religious sites. Women are recommended to have their shoulders and knees covered, and men should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts in certain environments. Adhering to the local dress code demonstrates respect for the culture and helps avoid unnecessary attention.

Travel Insurance and Safety Measures

Travel insurance coverage.

Obtaining travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Turkey or any other country. Your travel insurance should cover medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen belongings, and emergency medical evacuation. Ensure that you carefully review your policy to understand the coverage and any exclusions.

Emergency Contacts

It’s important to have emergency contact information readily available during your trip to Turkey. Keep a list of important phone numbers, including the local authorities, your embassy or consulate, and your travel insurance provider. Make sure to share these contact details with a trusted person back home as well.

Safety Tips

To enhance your safety while traveling in Turkey, consider the following tips:

Stay informed: Stay updated on the current security situation and any travel advisories in effect.

Blend in: Dress modestly and try to blend in with the local population to minimize drawing unnecessary attention.

Use reliable transportation: Opt for reputable transportation services and avoid traveling alone, especially at night.

Secure your belongings: Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas.

Stay in well-known areas: Stick to well-lit and popular areas, especially at night, to reduce the risk of being targeted.

Respect local customs: Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to avoid unintentionally causing offense.

Overall Assessment of Travel Safety

While Turkey has faced security challenges in recent years, it continues to be a popular and relatively safe tourist destination. By staying informed, exercising caution, and following the local customs and safety recommendations, you can enjoy a memorable and safe visit to Turkey.

Personal Responsibility and Decision Making

It’s important to take personal responsibility for your own safety while traveling in Turkey. Evaluate the current security situation, consider travel advisories, and make an informed decision based on your comfort level and risk tolerance. By preparing adequately, respecting local customs, and using common sense, you can have a rewarding and safe travel experience in Turkey.

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Is Turkey Safe to Travel To? A Comprehensive Guide

Turkey stands as a bridge between East and West, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. But for travelers looking to explore its bazaars, beaches, and ancient ruins, the question arises: Is Turkey safe to travel to? This article delves into the various aspects of travel safety in Turkey, offering insights and guidance for a secure and enjoyable journey.

Understanding the Landscape of Safety in Turkey

Turkey’s unique position, straddling two continents, brings a blend of European modernity and Asian tradition. The country’s commitment to tourism has seen it implement robust safety measures to ensure that visitors can enjoy its offerings without undue concern. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene landscapes of Cappadocia, understanding the local context is key to a safe trip.

The Present-Day Security Situation in Turkey

Recent years have seen Turkey make significant strides in enhancing the safety of its cities and tourist hotspots. Vigilant security services and improved infrastructure contribute to a setting where travelers can feel more at ease. However, like any destination, staying informed about current events and areas to avoid is crucial.

Navigating Through Turkey’s Geopolitical Dynamics

Turkey’s geopolitical landscape is complex, with its borders touching volatile regions. Yet, the country has managed to maintain a level of stability that is reassuring for tourists. Understanding the geopolitical nuances can help travelers make informed decisions about where and when to visit.

Embracing Cultural Norms for Safer Travel

Respecting and adhering to Turkey’s cultural norms does more than enrich your travel experience; it also fosters mutual respect and safety. From dress codes to social interactions, a little cultural awareness goes a long way.

Analyzing Crime Statistics in Turkish Destinations

Crime rates in Turkey vary by region, but major tourist destinations typically report lower levels of serious crime. Petty theft and scams can occur, as in any tourist locale, so vigilance and common sense are your best defenses.

Assessing Risks for Tourists in Turkey

Tourists may wonder if they are targeted for crime in Turkey. While incidents are relatively rare, being aware of common tourist scams and areas where extra caution is warranted can help mitigate risks.

Safety in Transit: Air, Land, and Sea

Turkey’s transportation networks are extensive and generally safe. From domestic flights to intercity buses and ferries, understanding the safest modes of transport and reputable companies is beneficial for travelers.

Health Concerns and Medical Infrastructure in Turkey

Turkey’s medical facilities, especially in larger cities, are of high quality. Travelers should be aware of any vaccinations required and have a plan for accessing healthcare if needed.

Preparedness for Natural Phenomena

Turkey is prone to certain natural disasters such as earthquakes. Knowing what to do in such an event and where to get information can be lifesaving.

The Impact of Political Stability on Travel Safety

The political climate in Turkey can influence the safety of travelers. Staying up-to-date with news and avoiding demonstrations or political gatherings is advisable.

Accessibility of Emergency Assistance for Travelers

Turkey has a reliable system for emergency assistance. Familiarizing yourself with emergency numbers and the location of your country’s embassy can provide peace of mind.

Deciphering Government Travel Advisories

Government travel advisories offer crucial information for assessing the safety of travel to Turkey. Interpreting these advisories correctly can help you make informed travel decisions.

Safety Across Different Turkish Regions

Safety can vary across Turkey’s diverse regions. From the relative calm of the Aegean coast to the bustling energy of Istanbul, knowing the safety profile of each region is important.

Safety During Turkey’s Cultural Celebrations

Turkey’s festivals and events are vibrant and generally safe to attend. However, large gatherings require standard safety precautions.

Special Considerations for Female Travelers

While Turkey is modernizing, traditional values persist. Female travelers will find helpful tips for navigating the social landscape safely.

Enjoying Turkey’s Nightlife with Peace of Mind

Turkey’s nightlife is dynamic and varied. Understanding the local scene and how to enjoy it safely ensures memorable nights out.

Legal Awareness for International Visitors

Abiding by local laws and customs is essential for a trouble-free visit. Awareness of Turkish laws, particularly those that differ significantly from your home country, is a must.

Choosing Safe Lodging in Turkey

From luxury resorts to quaint guesthouses, selecting safe accommodation is key. Research and reviews are your allies in finding secure lodging.

Protecting Your Digital Footprint in Turkey

In the digital age, cybersecurity is part of travel safety. Taking steps to protect your online data is as important as safeguarding your passport.

Leveraging Your Embassy’s Support While Abroad

Your embassy can be a vital resource in Turkey, providing assistance and information to ensure your safety.

The Role of Travel Insurance in Safe Trips

Travel insurance is an essential tool for dealing with the unexpected. Understanding coverage options can save you from unforeseen troubles.

Safety in Turkey’s Adventure Tourism

For those seeking thrills, Turkey offers a range of adventure activities. Ensuring these are undertaken with reputable operators is crucial for safety.

Savoring Turkish Cuisine Safely

Turkish cuisine is a highlight for many travelers. Knowing how to enjoy it safely ensures that your culinary adventures are only memorable for the right reasons.

Navigating Markets and Avoiding Scams

Markets are a feast for the senses but can also be a hotspot for scams. Learning how to shop smartly keeps the experience positive.

Final Thoughts on Travel Safety in Turkey

Concluding the discussion on safety, we reflect on the measures that make Turkey a welcoming destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.

The Best Travel Agency in Turkey for Tours

One Nation Travel distinguishes itself as a premier provider of Turkey tours , offering a diverse range of travel experiences tailored to showcase the country’s rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the historic battlefields of Gallipoli, their expertly crafted tours invite travelers to immerse themselves in Turkey’s unique heritage. With One Nation Travel, tourists are guaranteed a captivating journey through the heart of Turkey, ensuring memories that last a lifetime.

Top 3 Highly Recommended Tour Packages for Exploring Turkey

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Türkiye travel advice

Latest updates: Laws and culture – updated information on Ramadan 2025

Last updated: April 15, 2024 14:40 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, türkiye - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye due to the threat of terrorist attacks and the possibility of demonstrations throughout the country.

Border region with Syria - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to within 10 km of the border with Syria, due to a deteriorating security situation.

Earthquake-affected provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

• Kahramanmaraş

Southeastern provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

• Bingöl

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Protests related to the situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Since October 17, 2023, protests have been taking place throughout Türkiye due to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Some protesters have targeted and vandalized popular Western-branded businesses and foreign diplomatic missions in Ankara, Istanbul and Adana, especially those of the United States and Israel. The protests have led to confrontations between protesters and security forces, road closures and traffic disruptions.

Additional protests at various locations cannot be ruled out and could pose a risk to your safety, regardless of your nationality.

Turkish authorities have employed enhanced measures to respond to demonstrations, including:

• deploying additional security forces
• using crowd dispersal methods

If you are near an affected area:

• exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times
• expect heightened security measures
• avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• plan and use alternative routes

Armed attacks

Turkish authorities remain on alert following armed attacks in Istanbul at the Italian Santa Maria Catholic Church on January 28, 2024 and the Caglayan Courthouse on February 6, 2024.

If you are in Istanbul, you should:

• exercise increased caution
• expect a heightened security presence
• monitor local media

Border with Syria

Extremist groups have carried out attacks at border crossings and other locations in Syria close to the Turkish border. The Turkish government has declared some areas in villages along the border with Syria special security zones as part of cross-border military operations. Expect a heightened military presence and movement restrictions in these areas.

The security situation remains unpredictable.

• Exercise extreme caution
• Review your security measures regularly
• Monitor these events very closely

Southeast region 

Terrorist groups have launched deadly terrorist attacks against Turkish security personnel in several cities and regions in the south and southeast of the country.

• Remain vigilant
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local and international media

There is a risk, particularly to foreigners, of kidnapping in the area (see Kidnapping, below). Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Avoid overland travel. If you must, drive during the day and stay on major roads. Don’t use public transportation.

There is an ongoing threat of terrorism from domestic and international terrorist groups in Türkiye. Many attacks have occurred throughout the country. Although most have occurred in the south and east, some also took place in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara.

Attacks have targeted:

• Turkish military and government facilities
• places of worship
• tourist attractions and popular public places
• nightclubs and entertainment venues
• public transportation

Further attacks may occur, and terrorists may also target:

• crowded places
• places with high pedestrian traffic and where foreigners may gather
• commercial establishments
• local government offices
• public transit stations
• busy streets
• long queues at tourist attractions

Turkish security officials may set up roadblocks or close streets when they receive reports on specific threats. It is common to have a proactive police presence.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places
• Avoid large crowds
• Follow the instructions of local authorities at all times

Mountaineering and hiking

Mount Ararat, between the eastern provinces of Agri and Igdir, is designated a special military zone. You must hire the services of a locally licensed guide agency if you intend to hike in the area. A licensed company will obtain the necessary permits and assign you a registered Mountaineer to accompany you throughout your hike.

If you intend on engaging in mountaineering or hiking:

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails

Accurate information on mountain conditions can be difficult to obtain. Weather in mountainous areas can also be unpredictable.

Identification

Random ID checks and ‎roadblocks may take place in large cities and on intercity roads.

Cooperate during ID checks and always carry your passport and visa or residence permit. Failure to produce these documents or non-compliance with Turkish officials during identity checks could result in fines, detainment or deportation.

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted large numbers of people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations, etc. You could be subject to scrutiny if you posted similar comments, even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

• Keep in mind the sensitivities
• Think twice before posting or reacting to online content criticizing the government
• Restrain and limit your social media footprint

There is a threat of kidnapping-for-ransom along Türkiye’s borders with Syria and Iraq. Extremist groups take advantage of porous borders and an unpredictable security situation to carry out operations and use kidnapping as a means of raising funds.

They may target the local population, foreigners and even foreign aid workers.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur throughout Türkiye.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Ensure that your belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
• If travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked

Muggings, assaults and sexual assaults occur.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Do not accept food and drinks from strangers, even if the wrapping or container appears intact.

Don’t go to down-market bars and neighbourhoods. One scam, particularly common in Istanbul, involves locals inviting tourists to bars for food and drinks and then forcing them to pay a steep bill.

Don’t accept letters, parcels or other items from strangers. Drug traffickers sometimes attempt to convince foreigners to deliver packages and messages into and out of Türkiye.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

If you’re travelling to Türkiye to meet someone you’ve only met online, or the person in Türkiye asks to wire money, you may be the victim of a scam. Don’t send money to someone you have never met in person.

Overseas fraud

Women’s safety

There is a risk of sexual assault.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Be aware of your surroundings.

Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts.

Advice for women travellers

Stray animals

There are numerous stray dogs and cats in Türkiye. Dogs often travel in packs and could attack pedestrians and joggers.

Don’t attempt to feed or pet stray animals.

Road safety

Türkiye has a modern road network. However, uneven surfaces and poorly marked lane changes near construction zones, are common.

Exercise caution, especially when driving in the rain. Severe weather conditions may seriously affect road conditions.

Ensure that your vehicle is in good repair. Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities or major roads.

Accidents are common. You may face the following hazards when driving in the country:

• reckless driving
• vehicle breakdown due to poor maintenance practices
• dangerous road conditions
• inadequate lighting
• poor signage
• high-volume traffic congestion

If you come across an accident, don’t slow down or stop to observe.

If you are involved in an accident, lock your doors and windows and call 112 to notify the police.

Don’t move your vehicle until advised to do so by the police, even if your accident results in:

• blocked traffic routes
• injuries to those involved
• a disagreement
• a crowd starting to form

You may be permitted to move your vehicle after communicating with the police if you are on a busy road, once you have taken pictures of the scene.

Although pedestrians officially have the right of way, it may not be the case in practice.

General Directorate of Highways

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Turkish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the duration of stay indicated on your visa, e-Visa, visa exemption or residence permit.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Work visa: required Tourism visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period Business visa: required Student visa: required Medical visa: required

If you are travelling to Türkiye to seek medical services, apply for a medical visa through the HealthTürkiye online portal. You should also consult our advice on medical tourism under the  Health  section before applying for a medical visa.

If you are travelling to Türkiye and need a visa, use the official Turkish government site to apply online and purchase an e-visa before entering the country. Be cautious of third-party websites that offer help in getting any type of visa, as they charge additional fees to provide information and submit applications for you. They are not operating on behalf of the Government of Türkiye.

If you plan to study or work in Türkiye, you must obtain a visa at a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Türkiye.

To qualify for a subsequent visa-exempted entry for a 90-day period in Turkiye, you must leave the country for at least 90 days before being allowed to re-enter for another 90 days.

If you wish to remain in Türkiye for longer than 90 consecutive days, you must obtain a residence permit from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in the province in which you reside. If you overstay, you might be fined, deported or banned from future travel to Türkiye for a specific period of time.

• E-visa application system  – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
• Residency permit applications – Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Türkiye
• HealthTürkiye online portal – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye

Entry stamp

Ensure Turkish immigration officials stamp your passport on arrival. Failure to produce a stamped passport is punishable by a fine, detention and deportation, and can lead to significant delays at departure.

Dual citizenship

Dual Turkish-Canadian citizens must present a valid Turkish passport or piece of identification to enter the country.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is common in Türkiye. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following surgeries abroad. The Turkish government recommends that all travellers seeking medical services select healthcare providers authorized by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

• the health and financial risks
• medical facilities performing the intended procedure
• language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
• travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

The Turkish authorities established the HealthTürkiye online portal, which provides information to foreigners about medical tourism in Türkiye.

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. 

• Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Turkish health authorities.
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure.
• Receiving medical care outside Canada
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Authorized healthcare providers  - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye (In Turkish)
• International Health Services Call Center  - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye
• HealthTürkiye – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in major cities but may not be in remote areas. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in the coverage offered abroad. 

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Universal health coverage

Foreigners with residency permits must register for universal health coverage under Turkish Social Security (SGK). Although Canadian citizens are exempt, you may enroll if you have no other coverage and you have been a resident in Türkiye for at least one year.

Universal Health Insurance  - Türkiye's social Security Institution

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Authorities can request to see your ID at any time. If you fail to present valid identification documents upon request, you could face:

• deportation
• entry ban for future travel into Türkiye

During your stay:

• carry the original version (not only photocopies or digital versions) of a valid government-issued ID, such as your passport, at all times.
• keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents in case it is seized or lost
• follow the instructions of the local authorities requesting the documents

If you are temporarily in Türkiye, you should carry a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

If you reside in Türkiye, you should carry your Turkish resident ID (Kimlik and/or Ikamet) and a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

The use of illegal drugs is prohibited. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Don't agree to carry any baggage that is not yours.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Lèse-majesté

It is illegal to denigrate, desecrate or insult the following:

• the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye
• the president of the Republic of Türkiye
• the Turkish flag and the national anthem
• Turkish currency
• State organs and institutions and its judicial bodies
• the police and the military

Religious proselytism

Although religious proselytism is not illegal, some activities may be considered illegal and could lead to detention.

Political discussions

Avoid discussions (including on social media) on historical and religious issues as well as on politics.

• Restrain/limit your social media footprint.

Online activities

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations. You could be subject to scrutiny even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

Authorities have also targeted people and groups for:

• publishing statements
• organizing news conferences
• organizing or participating in nonviolent activities
• critical writing and online activism protesting the government, its policies, decisions and actions

Even if a case does not go to trial or ends in acquittal, people can be labelled as terrorism suspects and face adverse consequences due to investigations and criminal proceedings, including possible loss of employment and social exclusion.

Photography

It is forbidden to photograph military or public installations. Avoid photographing public demonstrations or members of police or security forces. Cameras may be confiscated. Do not photograph people without their permission.

Turkish antiquities and other cultural artifacts that are considered of historical value or of national importance cannot be exported. Seek advice from Turkish authorities prior to departure from Türkiye. If the item can be exported, you will require a sales receipt and the official museum export certificate issued by the Turkish customs office.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Turkish law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Türkiye.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Türkiye, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Türkiye.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Türkiye, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Turkish court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Türkiye to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Dress and behaviour

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in many parts of the country.

In all places of worship, women should cover their head with a scarf and all visitors should cover their arms and legs.

• Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts
• Behave discreetly
• Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

The currency of Türkiye is the Turkish lira (TRY).

Earthquakes

In February 2023, severe earthquakes struck several provinces in southeastern Türkiye resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and significant damage to critical infrastructure, buildings and private houses. There are reports indicating that most of the affected local populations live in temporary shelters or settlements awaiting reconstruction.

The authorities revoked the state of emergency on May 9, 2023. Recovery work is underway, but the situation remains precarious in the following southern provinces affected by the earthquakes:

If you are in the affected area, you can expect:

• continued telecommunication and electricity disruptions
• frequent aftershocks
• limited food, water and hygiene options
• limited accommodations
• extremely limited transportation options from the disaster area

If you are planning to travel near an affected area despite this advisory:

• monitor local media for the latest developments

Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces affected by the earthquakes as our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in that area is severely limited. If you need assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Ankara: 90 (312) 409-2700.

Türkiye is located in an active seismic zone. Landslides are possible in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur after the initial earthquake.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Severe rainstorms occur in various regions around Türkiye, especially in the Black Sea region and coastal areas. Heavy rainfall can cause severe flooding and landslides, resulting in extensive damage to infrastructure and hampering the provision of essential services in the affected areas. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Droughts and snowstorms can also delay travel and disrupt essential services.

Forest fires often occur during the summer months, particularly in provinces on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts of Türkiye.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of major fire:

• stay away from the affected areas, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Azerbaijan, Georgia. Offering consular services to Canadians in Iran.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Türkiye, in Ankara, or the Consulate General of Canada to Türkiye, in Istanbul, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Best Travel Agencies

Search turkeytravelplanner.com, what cities.

• Aegean Coastal Cities
• Mediterranean Coastal Cities

Is Turkey Safe to Travel?

Last Updated on March 28, 2024

Is Turkey Safe to Travel? 2024 Update

Is Turkey safe to travel to now? Safety is a major concern for any traveler, and Turkey, with its rich history and natural wonders, is no exception.

The bottom line is yes, Turkey is safe to travel to in 2024 . In fact, many visitors are surprised to find that the general level of personal safety in Turkey is higher than in many popular European destinations.

In this comprehensive guide, learn more about the best ways to travel safely in Turkey as well as specific safety recommendations for different regions as well as different types of travelers.

Key Takeaways

• Turkey is considered a safe destination for tourists, with friendly locals and a strong security framework in place to ensure public safety, but travelers are advised to exercise vigilance and stay informed about safety measures.
• Travel advisories from the US and UK stress the need for increased caution near the border with Syria.
• While generally safe, travelers in Turkey should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing in tourist areas, and scams that can target foreign visitors, and there are additional personal safety measures for different types of travelers like solo explorers, female travelers, or LGBTQ+ individuals.

Is it Safe to Visit Turkey with the Conflict in Israel & Palestine? Is it Safe for Americans to Visit Turkey Now?

One of the first things at the top of travelers' concerns is regional conflicts. Travelers might worry that Turkey is too close to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. If one were to drive from Istanbul to Israel, it would take nearly a full day as it is a distance of nearly 1200 miles (1900km).

The security situation in Turkey has not been affected due to this conflict. As a traveler, you face no increased risk due to the war in Gaza.

Just as in many countries, there have been some protests and marches. As a general rule, it's wise to stay away from any large protest or rally in any country if you are a foreign visitor.

What about the War between Ukraine and Russia?

Although on a map Turkey looks close to Ukraine, the Black Sea separates both of these countries. In fact, Turkey controls access along its own border with the Black Sea via the Bosphorus Strait. This is due to the Montreux Convention which dictates access of ships through this strait.

Keep in mind that Turkey has been a member of NATO since 1952. There have been no security issues in Turkey due to the war in Ukraine and Russia.

Is Turkey Safe for Tourists?

The charm of Turkey draws travelers to its vibrant bazaars , stunning beaches, and historical marvels. But is Turkey safe? The answer is a reassuring yes , with official sources confirming it as a secure destination for tourists. No matter where you visit, from the historical city of Istanbul to the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean , you will feel welcomed here.

Join our Facebook group to connect with fellow travelers and local experts.

Friendly Locals and Hospitality

Turkish hospitality frequently leads to tales of outstanding kindness and friendships formed during a visit to the country. Locals are known for their eagerness to assist and welcome visitors with open arms, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural ethos of misafirperverlik — a tradition of treating guests as honored members of the community.

Prevalent Safety Measures

Rest assured of the robust security framework as you explore the wonders of Turkey. Turkish security forces, including Turkish security personnel, are empowered with extensive legal authority to ensure public safety, reassuring travelers of a secure environment. Nonetheless, the wisdom of exercising good judgment and vigilance remains pertinent; keeping abreast with local news and carrying identification are part of the advised measures that complement the Turkish government’s proactive stance on safety.

Travel Warnings and Advisories

Staying informed is crucial for prudent travel. Use current advisories as your guide to safely navigate through Turkey, a country visited by tens of thousands of tourists each year. They underscore the importance of heightened awareness due to the threat of terrorist attacks, particularly in areas closer to neighboring conflict zones like Syria. Make sure to monitor local media for the latest information.

These advisories are not a deterrent but a guide to help you plan a safe and enjoyable journey, reinforcing the need to exercise increased caution in certain regions and consider obtaining an international driving permit if necessary.

Read more about the most recent government updates .

US State Department Advisory

Echoing the need for vigilance, the US Department of State’s advisory urges travelers to be particularly cautious due to the potential risks of terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Certain provinces, such as Sirnak and Hakkari, are flagged for their proximity to conflict, and travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the political landscape.

UK Foreign Office Advisory

In a similar vein, the UK Foreign Office deems most of Turkey safe for travel, while advising against journeys to areas immediately adjacent to the Syrian border and specific southeastern provinces. Awareness of local demonstrations, which can occasionally escalate in cities like Ankara and Istanbul, is also recommended as a measure of prudence.

Emergency Assistance and Consular Support

Knowing how to access assistance could prove vital in the unlikely event of an emergency. Turkey’s infrastructure ensures that help is just a phone call away, and consular support for foreign nationals is readily available.

Familiarize yourself with Turkey’s emergency numbers. Whether it’s a medical situation, a need for police intervention, or a fire emergency, quick access to services is assured.

Local Emergency Numbers:

General emergency/ ambulance: 112

Police: 155

Consular Support

Consular support is a critical resource for travelers in need of assistance. Australian citizens, for example, have multiple points of contact within Turkey to seek help, from the embassy in Ankara to consulates in other cities. Americans can enroll in the STEP program to register their travels and find information on the nearest embassy.

Crime Rates and Safety Concerns

Questions of safety are undeniably brought to the forefront when navigating a foreign country. While Turkey’s crime rates have seen an uptick, it remains a relatively safe destination for tourists when held up against global standards. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, are the most frequent issues travelers may encounter, particularly in crowded markets and famed tourist destinations.

Petty Crimes

Maintaining vigilance in busy tourist hotspots is crucial for preventing petty crimes. Istanbul does have some issues with pickpockets who often employ sleight-of-hand or distraction tactics. By keeping valuables discreetly tucked away and maintaining a heightened sense of awareness, you can safeguard your belongings and enjoy the city’s wonders with peace of mind.

Scams and Fraud

Unfortunately, the global travel experience is often marred by scams and fraud, and Turkey is not exempt from this issue. Vigilance against credit card skimming and ATM fraud is necessary, as is skepticism towards too-good-to-be-true currency exchange rates and unsolicited approaches that may lead to exorbitant bills or theft.

You may also have heard of some scams such as the "let's have a drink" scam in which male travelers are led into a bar and charged an exorbitant fee for drinks and pressured to pay. There are also some scams that involve a shoe shine dropping a brush on the street. The "grateful" shoe shiner will then insist on cleaning your shoes for "free" before demanding a hefty tip.

Most of the time, however, if someone approaches you in public in a busy tourist area in Istanbul, he or she is most likely trying to sell souvenirs or to invite you into a Turkish rug gallery. While not dangerous, you may find yourself unintentionally sipping tea while colorful rugs are cascading around you and it can be difficult to pull yourself away from these charismatic salesmen. Touts in the Grand Bazaar can also walk the line between persuasive and pushy. It's generally wise to steer clear of any salespeople who make you feel uneasy.

The biggest concern for most travelers is taxis in Istanbul . Taxi drivers are infamous for adding on additional charges or taking a longer route than necessary. It's wise to pre-arrange a private transfer from the airport to your hotel. Also, make use of Istanbul's vast public transportation network . There are applications such as BiTaksi which allow you to book a taxi at a fixed price.

Regions to Exercise Caution

Certain regions in Turkey require extra caution as you chart your course through the country. The southeastern provinces, due to their proximity to conflict zones, and areas affected by natural disasters, such as earthquakes , require an extra degree of caution.

It’s through understanding these nuances that one can fully embrace the vibrant tapestry of Turkey’s diverse regions while prioritizing personal safety. Read more about the 2023 earthquake .

Southeastern Provinces

The southeastern provinces of Turkey, brimming with cultural depth, also present a tangible risk due to potential terrorist activities and the spillover effects from neighboring conflicts. Heed travel advisories and respect the local guidance to avoid areas within a close radius of the Syrian border, ensuring a journey that is as safe as it is enriching.

Earthquake-Affected Areas

Turkey is no stranger to seismic activity and introduced stricter building codes in 1999 (and again in 2018) to ensure buildings can hold up to earthquakes. Earthquakes are unpredictable, and statistically unlikely to affect travelers, compared to other risks. However, safety-conscious travelers may prefer to stay in newer buildings with improved safety regulations.

Safety Tips for Different Types of Travelers

Solo travelers.

For the intrepid solo traveler, Turkey offers a wealth of opportunities for self-discovery and connection. Maintaining personal boundaries, avoiding less-frequented areas after dark, and sharing travel plans with trusted individuals back home are key strategies for a secure solo journey.

Female Travelers

Women traveling alone can find Turkey to be a welcoming and safe destination, provided they:

• Stay vigilant in public spaces
• Adhere to local customs
• Opt for reputable transport services
• Dress modestly in a mosque and in conservative regions

These small, yet significant steps can make a big difference in comfort and security, especially when faced with situations that come with little or no warning. Modest dress would be appreciated in cities such as Konya, but you can dress freely in Istanbul and along the Aegean and Mediterranean Coasts. Read more in our guide on what to wear in Turkey and our guidance for women travelers .

LGBTQ+ Travelers

While Turkey’s legal stance on homosexuality is one of tolerance, social conservatism can vary, particularly in rural areas. Public displays of affection, even among heterosexual couples, are less common in Turkish society. LGBTQ+ travelers will find that discretion and selecting LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations can pave the way for a journey that is both enjoyable and secure.

Health and Medical Safety

Vaccinations and health risks.

Shielding oneself against health risks in Turkey starts with being up-to-date on routine vaccines . With the rise in measles cases across Europe, securing this vaccination prior to travel is critical. Additionally, consider vaccinations against Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid, especially if your travels take you off the beaten path.

Medical Facilities and Services

Turkey’s healthcare landscape is a blend of public and private facilities, with medical tourism on the rise due to high standards of medical treatment, particularly in its cosmopolitan hubs. Rural areas may offer a different picture, highlighting the importance of comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.

Transportation Safety

Public transport.

Public transportation in Turkey’s major cities, especially in metropolitan areas, is a reliable and safe way to navigate the urban landscape. With services like Istanbul’s metro and tram lines under constant security supervision, you can travel with confidence.

Taxis and ridesharing services form the backbone of Turkey’s transportation network for many travelers. While generally safe, it’s crucial to ensure that the service is authorized and that you take necessary precautions to avoid common scams, as Turkish law requires drivers to follow strict regulations. If you rent a car, be sure that you have adequate insurance and take caution when driving. Read more about driving in Turkey .

Cultural Awareness and Local Laws

Dress code and behavior.

Dress and behavior are integral aspects of cultural immersion. In Turkey, adapting to local customs, especially in conservative and religious areas, can foster meaningful interactions and help you blend in seamlessly. Read more about what to wear.

Legal Considerations

Staying informed about legal considerations, including Turkish law, is crucial for a hassle-free stay in Turkey. A firm stance against illegal drugs and awareness of photography restrictions are just a couple of examples of local laws to be mindful of. It’s essential to respect and follow the guidelines set by local authorities.

Turkey remains a destination where the curious and cautious traveler can find both solace and excitement, with its myriad landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture waiting to be discovered.

Still have questions? Join our Facebook group and connect with other travelers.

How safe is Turkey for tourists?

Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to avoid the far southeast region due to recent violence and crime. Stay informed about potential risks before traveling.

Can US citizens go to Turkey?

Yes, US citizens can go to Turkey visa-free! The law was changed in 2023 and allows for visa-free entry for many travelers. Read more here.

What are the current travel advisories for Turkey?

It is advisable to exercise increased caution, particularly near the Syrian border, due to a higher threat of terrorism. Stay updated with the latest advisories from your government before traveling. For more information, travelers can visit an official Turkish government site or consult with Turkish authorities.

Are there any specific safety concerns for female travelers in Turkey?

Female travelers in Turkey are generally safe, but it is advised to be vigilant in public spaces, opt for modest dress when visiting a mosque or a conservative area, and use reputable transport services to enhance safety.

How prevalent are petty crimes like pickpocketing in Turkey?

Petty crimes like pickpocketing are not uncommon in crowded tourist areas in Turkey, so it's important for travelers to keep valuables hidden and stay vigilant to reduce the risk of theft.

Best Tours & Itineraries

Street Crime

Women Travelers in Turkey

Safe Travel in Turkey

First Trip to Turkey

Top 10 Turkish Travel Mistakes

Mediterranean Turkey

Where to Go in Turkey

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I'm in Turkey right now -- 5 things to know about entering as a US resident

Editor's Note

Before the pandemic, Turkey saw a record number of visitors in 2019. As a traveler here now in a reopened Istanbul , I can see why.

The incredible culture and cuisine are set among a historical and religious backdrop that spans centuries. It's an impressive city -- and not just because its 20 million residents stretch across two separate continents.

But if the pace of big city life isn't for you, the varying regions throughout Turkey offer something for everyone.

If you're a U.S. resident considering a trip -- or have one already planned -- here are five things that you should know about entering Turkey, as someone who has done it twice this summer.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Chris Dong (@thechrisflyer)

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Proof of vaccination gets you in

There are several ways to enter Turkey as a U.S. resident, depending on your vaccination status.

If you're fully vaccinated , as I am, you simply need to present proof at the airport during check-in. You must have been vaccinated at least 14 days before entering Turkey or have had COVID-19 in the last six months.

If you're not fully vaccinated, there is a COVID-19 testing option. You can either show a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of entry or a negative rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of entry.

Related: Why I packed 8 COVID-19 tests to fly to Portugal — and what it's like to enter now

A mandatory health tool acts as a COVID-19 tracker

Before departing from the U.S., you'll have to fill out this health form within 72 hours of travel. Your contact and travel information is the basis for a contact-tracing tool that the Turkish government uses for COVID-19.

A QR code (called a HES code) is generated, which is used nationwide by both tourists and residents alike.

The code isn't just checked upon departure from the U.S. In fact, you're also required to show it at many establishments -- indoor malls, some restaurants, all public transportation, at hotel check-in, and both international and domestic flights.

I had my HES code checked on my phone at each hotel that I arrived at, along with domestic flights and even while shopping at some malls in Istanbul.

In addition, as of Sept. 6, 2021, proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test within the past 48 hours is now required to enter some businesses, such as theaters or cinemas, that are hosting crowded events.

Don't forget your visa

Turkey requires a visa for U.S. passport holders. You have two options: an e-visa or visa on arrival. In my experience doing the e-visa process, it's fairly seamless and you should receive it within an hour of submitting payment. The website is a bit clunky but works in practice.

Two things that you should be aware of:

• Don't fall for scam visa websites offering assistance (there is only one official site ).
• Have a screenshot or printed copy of your e-visa handy if you're going that route. I had to show this not only at check-in but also upon arriving in Turkey.

In addition to the COVID-19 requirements and the HES code, an agent at check-in will also check for your visa.

It'll take time to get through Istanbul Airport

If you're coming from the U.S., chances are high that you'll be flying into the new Istanbul Airport (IST). It's a gorgeous megastructure, but it will require some serious walking from deboarding through to finally exiting the airport. Expect signage that isn't the clearest, either.

Also, know that PCR and rapid antigen testing is available at Istanbul Airport should you need to get it upon departure. Impressively, the testing center is open 24 hours a day. It's in front of Entrance 14 in the arrivals hall. The test fee is 250 TL or about $35.

Related: Deal alert: There's a new option to fly lie-flat business class to Europe for 34,000 miles

Almost everything is open to capacity

From bars to restaurants to entertainment, nearly everything is open to capacity in Turkey. The only services that remain suspended  indefinitely are hookah bars and lounges.

While masks are technically required at all times, I didn't see anyone enforce this. For instance, while most hotel staff are masked up, several taxi drivers I encountered were not.

Bottom line

From Istanbul to Bodrum and beyond, Turkey has been a hot spot for travelers -- and will continue to be, despite the pandemic.

If visiting has been on your list, know that it is very feasible at present. Of course, rules are constantly changing, so keep abreast of the latest both here at TPG as well as the official information at the U.S. Embassy for Turkey website.

Note that Turkey is currently on the State Department's Do Not Travel list .

Do You Need To Cancel Your Trip To Turkey? What To Know About Travel Safety

Turkey has long been a popular destination. But recently there has been this question on many travelers' minds: is Turkey safe to visit?

Camilla Amadi • Apr 26, 2024

Turkey, with its rich history , stunning landscapes and vibrant culture , has long been a popular destination for tourists from around the world. But recently there has been this question on many travelers’ minds: is Turkey safe to visit?

Like any other destination, safety is a concern for many travelers. In this guide, we’ll explore the safety aspects of traveling to Turkey, some must-visit places, and provide you with tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Is Turkey Safe To Visit?

Turkey is generally a safe country to visit, with millions of tourists exploring its cities, coastal resorts and historical sites each year. However, like any destination, it’s essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure a trouble-free experience.

The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas could have some impact on travel safety in Turkey. While the countries are geographically separate, the situation raises several considerations for travelers.

Cross-Border Risks: The conflict may escalate and involve countries like Syria, making areas near Turkey’s border riskier. Travelers are advised to avoid regions within 10 km of the Syrian border and specific provinces like Sirnak and Hakkari.

Protests : The conflict might spark demonstrations in Turkish cities, which could turn violent. It’s advised to avoid protests, stay alert in tourist areas, and keep an eye on local media.

Terrorism Threat: The situation could increase terrorism risks, as groups like ISIS or PKK might seize the opportunity. Opt for well-secured hotels and follow local authorities’ advice. Keep important contact numbers handy, including those of your country’s embassy or consulate in Turkey, in case of emergencies.

Travel Advisory: Always check the latest government advisories before traveling and consider getting comprehensive travel insurance .

Must Visit Places In Turkey

Although certain regions in Turkey have experienced safety concerns in the past, the majority of the country, including popular tourist destinations like Istanbul and Cappadocia is considered safe for travel. Here are some safe places in Turkey to travel to:

A city where East meets West, Istanbul is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modernity. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Take a cruise along the Bosphorus to enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Known for its otherworldly landscapes, Cappadocia is famous for its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. Explore the underground cities, rock-cut churches, and hike through the unique terrain of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Translated as “ Cotton Castle ,” Pamukkale is renowned for its thermal pools and terraces formed by calcium deposits. Relax in the mineral-rich waters while admiring the stunning natural scenery. Don’t miss the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis, with its well-preserved ruins.

One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean region, Ephesus is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Explore the grand Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis, and the vast Roman ruins that provide a glimpse into the city’s glorious past.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Antalya is known for its picturesque beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the old town of Kaleici, visit the ancient city of Perge, and relax on the stunning beaches of Konyaalti and Lara.

Safety Tips

• Like any tourist destination, crowded areas such as markets, transportation hubs, and tourist attractions can be prime targets for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer months, and take necessary precautions to prevent food and waterborne illnesses.
• Use licensed taxis or reputable transportation services, especially when traveling late at night. Be cautious when crossing roads, as traffic can be chaotic in some cities.
• Understanding and respecting Turkish culture can enhance your travel experience and contribute to a positive interaction with locals. Learn a few basic Turkish phrases. Locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak their language.
• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. Avoid public displays of affection, especially in conservative areas.

Safe Travels

While no destination is without risks, by staying informed, respecting local customs, and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Turkey. So, pack your bags, immerse yourself in the beauty of this fascinating country, and create unforgettable memories.

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Home » Middle East » Travel Safety

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

Turkey is an outrageously beautiful and intriguing country.

Sandwiched between Europe and the Middle East, Turkey is a country that receives a lot of tourist attention, and for good reason. Its unique mixture of strange culture, friendly people, and gob-smacking geology leaves visitors begging for a return visit.

A secondary, more sinister characteristic of Turkey’s geographical placement is it’s effective role as “gatekeeper to the west”. Bordering both Syria and Iraq, Turkey works hard to defend it’s borders, but the terrorist threat is sadly very real.

This situation may have left you with the question “ is Turkey safe to visit ?”

Don’t worry, because we’re going to be covering the whole lot. From the potential terrorist threat to sunscreen disasters, we’ll be taking you through all the best safety tips for travelling this stunning gem of a country.

So let’s jump in!

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

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

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

Updated April 2024

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Is Turkey Safe to Visit Right Now?

Safest places in turkey, 22 top safety tips for traveling to turkey, is turkey safe to travel alone, is turkey safe for solo female travellers, where to start your travels in turkey, is turkey safe for families, getting around turkey safely, crime in turkey, what to pack for your turkey trip, getting insured before visiting turkey, faqs on turkey’s safety, so, is turkey safe for travel.

The short answer is, yes , travelling to Turkey is very safe. Turkey is a delight to explore and most trips are trouble-free. According to Trading Economics, Turkey received over 49 million visitors in 2023 . You’ll be pleased to know that the vast majority of tourists have a very safe visit.

Turkey is BIG on tourism. By big, we mean huge. In 2023, Turkey was the  6th most popular tourist destination in the world.  Turkish authorities are all about making sure the country is safe for tourists, so you’ll be a priority for them when you visit.

You should be aware that the southern borders with Iraq and Syria are no-go zones. It’s best to avoid Sirnak and the province of Hakkari too. There is an unpredictable security situation in these areas and heightened risks of terrorist attacks. Follow local media for better information on dangerous places.

Major cities can pose a problem to tourists in terms of petty theft and muggings, but crime rates are low in Turkey, and it’s unlikely you’ll feel threatened unless you’re out late in a bad part of town. Since Turkey is one of the great cheap countries to travel in Europe (and a little bit in Asia), Tourists are considered rich, so watch out!

A couple of pretty sizeable  earthquakes  occurred in 2017, and aren’t uncommon. Take preparations to ensure you know what to do in case of an earthquake.

In terms of politics, as long as you don’t get involved in protests , or start liking Daesh or terrorist posts on Facebook, you won’t have any trouble. People like to get mixed up in protests for something to do. DON’T. People get detained every year, and it is a stupid thing to do (even though it might be morally right).

As we’ve mentioned before, not everywhere in Turkey is safe (although 95% is). To make your travel planning a bit easier, we’ve listed the top places to stay in Turkey, as well as the no-goes.

• Istanbul : Istanbul is undoubtedly an epic city. Formerly Constantinople, this city is home to unbelievable architecture, eye-opening things to do , and a raucous nightlife. A trip to Turkey really isn’t complete without visiting this fantastic city.
• Bodrum : Bodrum sits along the Mediterranean Sea of Turkey’s coastline and is renowned for crystal clear waters and plentiful beach activities — including an underwater archaeology museum! Home to some of the most epic hostels in Turkey and a great party scene, travellers are in for a treat.
• Cappadocia : Cappadocia is one of the most unique places to stay in all of Turkey. With the moon-like landscape, and wildly bizarre rock formations called “fairy chimneys,” there’s a lot to see and do in Cappadocia that is downright strange but completely marvellous! There are also underground cities and cave churches, and houses carved into rocks. There are some wonderful places to stay in Cappadocia , so don’t miss out!

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

Places in Turkey to Avoid

Most of Turkey is absolutely stunning and totally safe. There are of course exceptions, so we’ve listed a few places you should simply steer clear of.

• Turkish border with Iraq and Syria : Why would you want to go here? Just why? Special military zones, refugee camps, and increased risks of action from terrorist groups.
• Sirnak, and the province of Hakkari : All but essential travel is discouraged from these zones, as they are considered much less safe to visit than the rest of the country. Terrorist attacks can happen with little or no warning, and there are large security concerns.
• Diyarbakir City And Province : Many visits are trouble-free, but there was a car bomb in 2016, and the FCDO doesn’t rate it. Don’t worry, there are better places to go anyway.

Eastern provinces are generally at greater risk from terrorist attacks, and there are heightened security forces in these areas to reflect that.

You may be stopped and asked for your ID at any time in Turkey, so it’s a good idea to keep it on you when travelling. You can never escape random checks! (even at ear-melting Turkish festivals )

Make sure your travel insurance covers any potential medical bills and health risks, and inform yourself on local laws before travelling. You can find great information on the official turkish government site , and get your visa while your at it!

Keeping Your Money Safe in Turkey

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

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

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

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

Turkey might be a little on the rocks thanks to terrorist attacks and political unrest, but it’s been building itself back up to the tourist behemoth it once was. To help you out, here are some tips for staying safe in Turkey.

• Avoid political demonstrations  – might seem interesting, but just don’t get involved. Not worth it.
• Don’t go around flashing your cash  – or any amount of fancy jewelry or decedent clothes you might have. Screams “I’m rich and oblivious; scam/rob me!” Keep a money belt on you for ultimate anonymity. 
• Be wary of scams  – these come in all shapes and sizes, and basically, it comes down to the old classic: don’t talk to strangers.
• In fact, do some research on scams  – the scammers can be pretty savvy. Knowing some of the most common scams will help.
• Keep your belongings close to you in tourist areas  – mainly a problem in cities, but pickpockets are active here.
• Teach yourself a few Turkish words and phrases  – this will help you get by, especially if you get lost.
• Carry your hotel/guesthouse/hostel’s business card  – show it to someone if you’re, again, lost.
• Don’t insult the Turkish government  – the government is hot on censorship and takes harsh criticism as an insult – and a crime.
• Protect against mosquitoes  – these can be more than pesky especially in coastal areas. Bring repellent, buy coils, cover up.
• Watch where you tread  – safety standards aren’t as high as Western countries, so unfinished and unsafe pavements are common.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• DON’T take any drugs  – it’s illegal. Prison sentences run as high as 20 years.
• Careful of what you photograph – it’s against the law to take photos of military installations.
• Know about mosque etiquette  – you don’t want to offend people. Covering your legs and shoulders is mandatory.
• Be aware of how you’re acting – public displays of affection are offensive here. For real.
• Be vigilant when it comes to terrorist attacks  – watching the news, avoiding religious celebrations and big gatherings. Generally being aware of the situation, will help you stay a little safer.
• Dress respectfully  – Istanbul and beach resorts may be liberal, but other places… not so much. Watch how other people around you are dressing.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Take toilet paper!  – yep, really. You won’t find this everywhere.
• Stay hydrated and cover up in the sun  – Turkey can get baking hot during the summer months. The sun takes no prisoners!
• Don’t agree on the first price for anything  – it’s inflated, every single time. Taxis, souvenirs, whatever. Offer half and go from there.
• Be respectful during Ramadan  – eating in public during the day is not very respectful.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol  – some of it might be stronger than you’re used to. Counterfeit alcohol is a common occurrence in Turkey.
• Watch out for packs of stray dogs  – especially in towns and cities. Rabies is rampant and, besides, they can be pretty scary…

There are loads of great experiences to be had while travelling alone . People in Turkey are pretty welcoming and there are a few well-trodden routes where you can make friends with other backpackers, too.

To make sure you stay safe in Turkey while travelling alone, here are a few pieces of advice.

• Going on a group tour is a good idea. Whether it’s a simple walking tour from your hostel or a multi-day excursion, it’s going to be a good way to  get to meet fellow travellers.
• Single male travellers are pretty susceptible to scams. Especially the “hey my friend let’s go for a drink” scam. Learn to say “no”. There are some pretty dodgy people out there who are pretty clever when it comes to parting unsuspecting solo travellers from their cash.
• Don’t tell people you’ll be travelling alone. 
• Walking around alone after dark, especially in city areas, is never really a good idea pretty much anywhere in the world. The same goes for Turkey.
• You can get a pre-paid sim at the airport and we recommend you do. Phoning accommodation, having data to talk to friends and family back home, checking maps; there are all of that sorts of things you can do with a phone. Most importantly,  people will know where you are  if you’re in contact.
• Do your research on accommodation . Somewhere with good reviews is likely to attract nice travellers, too!
• You should probably try and act like a local as well  without appearing ridiculous .  Be aware of how people around you are behaving and interacting, how they’re dressing, and you’ll get to know how best you can fit in.

Turkey is safe for solo travellers, absolutely, but being aware of the situation at all times is going to help. Keep up with the news, talk to friends back home, and, most importantly, make friends with other backpackers along the way.

The gals DO travel by themselves to Turkey, regardless of who says what. Obviously, there are concerns when it comes to travelling as a woman  anywhere in the world, but generally, Turkey is safe for solo female travellers .

For a little extra security, here are a few pointers if you are thinking about it. Follow them and hopefully, you’ll hit that sweet spot between travelling safely and having a great time.

• Don’t be afraid to say “no” . People will invite you in for tea, or invite you to look at this or look at that, or whatever. But if you don’t want to, don’t go.  A polite no is fine.
• Walking around by yourself when it’s dark is just silly. Even if you’d do this in your own country, you don’t have your bearings in Turkey. The chances of you getting lost, or worse, is probably just going to be that much higher than where you’re from.
• It’s probably best to dress modestly. Long flowing fabrics, long skirts or trousers – that sort of clothing. It’s a moderately conservative country, so if you want to lessen the attention you’ll get and avoid offence, especially in more conservative countryside areas, dress accordingly.
• Getting a tour is a great idea. Meeting fellow travellers is going to be good for your sanity and your safety. Make sure that you get a tour from a well-reviewed, reputable tour company. Random people off the street offering you tours = steer clear of these sorts of things.
• Understanding that it’s  not usual for women to travel by themselves in Turkey won’t stop you from getting attention, but it will probably help for your peace of mind.
• Catcalling happens, a lot. The best course of action is to  ignore it.  Wear dark sunglasses if you want to avoid eye contact.
• Sexual assault against female travellers in Turkey does happen. It’s best not to get too drunk (also watch your drink in clubs ), make sure you go out in groups, and just listen to your gut if someone seems weird. They probably are.
• Wear a shawl or scarf on your head if you plan on visiting a mosque.
• Outside of tourist areas, only stay at mid-range family-oriented hotels – or well-reviewed, female-friendly hostels. And if someone knocks on your door late at night,  don’t answer it.  Complain to the hotel staff about it in the morning.

With loads of unique attractions, great culture and amazing food, Istanbul is one of the most popular travel destinations in Turkey.

Life in Turkey is very  family-oriented – people here love their families and people love kids (strange)! For this reason and many others, Turkey is safe to travel for families.

Don’t be concerned if someone in a restaurant, a local, or a tour guide actually picks up your child  without warning  and starts whizzing her/him around to show them off to everyone. This is pretty normal, and more than anything shows you how open and caring Turkish people are when it comes to children.

Be wary of  a lack of pavements.  If you’re coming with a pushchair, be warned: things can get BUMPY. And just so you know, breastfeeding isn’t normal in public. Some women do breastfeed discretely, so  follow suit.

As we said earlier,  Turkey can get HOT.  The biggest danger (for children) is probably the sun. Stay safe in Turkey by not letting your little ones in the sun for too long.

Public transportation in Turkey is generally safe and pretty convenient. Turkey is a  well-travelled country  with good connections to most major (tourist and non-tourist) destinations.   You’ll find Istanbul   in particular is bursting at the seams with transport options, from  tram  networks to  ferries.

There are a number of bus companies that cover all the main routes.  Do your research and find one that’s right for you. 

There are also dolmuses, which are essentially minibuses. These run between towns and are often cramped.

You can also hop on the metro . Not everywhere, obviously, but in  Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir,  and Bursa.  This is a safe and quick way to get around (no traffic-congested roads!) you’ll have to keep an eye out for pickpockets though.

You can also catch  long-distance trains.  The state-run trains and private railways cover a fair portion of the country. These are becoming an increasingly popular way to travel around maybe because there are less crazy drivers involved.

You can even get  high-speed trains , though these are relatively expensive compared to a bus ticket. Sleeper trains exist, too.

The U.S. travel authority lists Turkey as a level 2 country due to the terrorist threat. However, a particularly great piece of travel writing I’ve found states that ” travellers… …are more at risk of being overfed by their hosts than running into any sort of crime”. That said, tourists should stay aware of pickpockets, especially within major cities. Turkey has a very low homicide rate , much lower than the U.S., and on par with Mauritius and Albania. It’s generally very safe.

The proximity of terrorist organisations, their unpredictability and love of large crowds is one of the main reasons that Turkey gets a certain danger warning from governments. If you are worried about this, stay away from Eastern Turkey, and minimise your time in crowded areas.

Laws in Turkey

It is illegal to be without a valid form of photo identification in Turkey. Make sure to carry your passport in your person at all times to avoid sour confrontations with local authorities. It is illegal to insult theTurkish nation or flag, or to tear up currency. Again, stay away from protests, as this can land you in trouble.

Some antiques or historical items bought in boutiques are illegal to take out of the country. Make sure you are not trying to leave with anything of historical value.

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

Hanging Laundry Bag

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

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

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

Monopoly Deal

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning a safe trip is always stressful, especially in a country like Turkey. To help you out, we’ve listed and answered the most frequently asked questions on Turkey’s safety below.

Why is Turkey considered unsafe?

In general, Turkey is not considered unsafe. With over 50 million visitors a year, it is a fantastic country to explore. However, there is a recognised terror threat close to the Syrian and Iraq borders. Only travel to south-east Turkey if it is absolutely essential. However, the Turkish government works to make sure the country is safe for Tourists, who provide a key source of income for the country.

How dangerous is Turkey?

Turkey is far from being “very dangerous”. However, you should still use your common travel sense and be aware of your surroundings. Basically, act like you would in any other European country.

Where is Turkey at Risk of Terrorism?

The risk of terrorism is highest near the borders with Iraq and Syria. The province of Hakkari, and the town of Sirnak are best avoided due to this risk too. Since terrorism is all about creating terror however, rural areas, and places with low footfall are much safer. Most of Turkey is absolutely stunning and totally safe.

Is Turkey LGBTQ+ friendly?

The LGBTQ+ community in Turkey is not massive. Keep in mind that the country has very strict religious rules and the government isn’t the most open-minded one either. Showing affection of any sort in public is generally not allowed or tolerated. Big cities like Istanbul have an LGBTQ+ scene, but it’s still relatively small. If you keep your relationship private, you won’t have any issues in Turkey.

Is it safe to live in Turkey?

We’d say Turkey is safe to live in just so long as you stick to the secure areas. You won’t want to live in the provinces that have travel warnings, we imagine, as these places are  definitely unsafe. There are plenty of safe places to live in Turkey. From the capital Ankara to the obvious choice of Istanbul; plenty of expats do make their homes in the major cities for many years, in fact. You’ll have to do your research . Depending on what neighborhood what town, in what province you live, how people treat you is going to vary quite dramatically. Liberal mindsets and education make a difference. As we already saw, the family is key in Turkey. So if you’re coming with children, it might break down some barriers for you. It goes without saying, but learning at least a little bit of Turkish is going to help you get by in day-to-day life, especially if you’re staying longterm. Away from the mainland, the islands in the  Aegean Sea  are a popular place for expats to move to.  Bodrum  is popular if you’ve got the budget for it, whilst  Didim  is known for its British expat community.

Yes, Turkey is, and basically always has been, a  popular tourist destination and a safe place to travel to.  Despite the potential threat of terrorism and despite potential political upheaval, Turkey is doing well.

There may be issues with the current government as to which direction it’s currently heading, what with freedom of speech issues and the persecution of critical journalists. Not to sound insensitive, but those things won’t concern you.  What will concern you is travelling around Turkey safely and having an amazing time; all easily done.

Looking for more info on traveling to Turkey?

• Let me help you choose  where to stay  in Turkey
• Swing by one of these  fabulous festivals
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs  in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic  backpacking Turkey travel guide!
• See exactly how to travel the world for a year , even if you’re broke

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Curious about safety for tourists who travel by sailboat and stay at local marinas. Also tourists who travel with their dog. We will be going to Turkey to buy a sailboat and staying for a few months before sailing west towards Spain. We will be traveling with our dog on the boat, but would like to take her on daily outings with us. Are restaurants with outdoor seating in Turkey dog friendly ?

Any updates on safety for traveling to Turkey within the next couple weeks? Curious if the country has been impacted by the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

At the time of writing we are not aware of any direct or indirect consequences but ultimately, like you we are relying on the news to get our information.

Just bear in mind that this terrible situation is an unprecedented one during our lifetimes and could change very fast.

Just a few corrections * You can take photos of any public or governmental buildings. Any law as you mentioned is not existing here. Only the exception can be military areas. But they are prohibited in all countries as well. * I’ve been here for 35 years and always found toilet papers in all toilets not exepting alaturka toilets. I just asked someone around me. I was not alone. We have all used papers yet. Are you sure you’re looking rightly? * According the statistics, the number of terrorist attacks are less than France, Germany and UK here. Crime statistics also better. Sure we are not in Scandinavia, but our cities like Antalya safer than Paris or Hamburg. (That’s why you can find 2M German Antalya anytime but can’t found 1M German in Hamburg.) * The taxicabs are not safe and never been fair for tourists. Use public transportation if possible. If you have to use taxi, call it from a taxi station. Unfortunately most of the taxi drivers are really shame for us. * We’re not Arab and most probably you can find more camels at U.S. zoos. * Wear whatever you wear in your country. Most of us wear like western people. Since we’re a multi cultural country, you may see headscarfs, mini skirts, sports wear, traditional dresses so as colorful in San Francisco. (must see: Russian girls in Antalya beaches)

So don’t worry about safety. However if you had any trouble just call 155 and keep calm. Our caps are really tourist friendly and experienced. ( they don’t like only us )

Hi Mahmut. Thanks for taking the time to comment and providing your perspective. It may indeed be correct that terrorism and crime is a bigger problem in European countries, we are certainly not saying that Turkey is any more dangerous than Western Europe. We do mention these issues in our Paris, London & Berlin guides. As for the toilet roll comment, I also managed to find it in most places too! Maybe our author was just unlucky”

Excellent pointers and comprehensive information about the do’s and don’t in Turkey. The write-up was certainly useful and quite helpful.

Actually , I just scrolled down this website to know what the “liberty loving “ Americans think About my country ( by the way , I’m 13).And I saw that you see it more like an Arabic country. Fist of all , you can wear what you want outside of mosques , only being to open will make you look bad , and being to closed makes you look like a terorist. So I advice female travelers not to come like Arabs. That’s disgusting whit these fully closed faces. WE CANT EVEN SEE THEIR FACES . And if you see these women, they are probably Arabic tourist.And Tunceli is more are for now .The Turkish Communist Party took the provience of Tunceli so everythink is free there.AND LASTLY , SAYING THAT TURKEY IS NOT SAFE MEANS THAT YOU ARE DISRESPECTING THE TURKISH SOILDERS FIGHTING AGAINST PKK TERORIST WHO ARE SUPPORTED BY THE USA , EVEN IF YOU DONT FIND IT SAFE TO COME , IT IS BECAUSE THE USA.

This was helpful! The one thing not covered was if it is safe to be out and/or LGBTQ in Turkey, or a Gay Couple. It would have been nice if that was included since you covered most other traveling scenarios, and that’s mine! Thanks for the helpful tips.

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Is Turkey Safe To Travel for Tourists? {Updated Safety Guide}

TravelRaval » Blog » Is Turkey Safe To Travel for Tourists? {Updated Safety Guide}

T urkey, which was once the center of the Ottoman Empire, is currently a mingling of civilizations. Combine its historical cities with miles upon miles of dazzling shoreline, amazing natural vistas to explore, and really friendly people, and you get an incredibly cool cocktail of a country.

However, there have recently been certain concerns, primarily related to the situation in Syria and the subsequent terrorist acts. These have occurred on a consistent basis up until 2017. 

These have occurred on a consistent basis up until 2017. 

Is Turkey safe to travel? It’s an excellent question, and we want to address it with this comprehensive insider’s guide on staying safe in Turkey. We aim to provide you the greatest advice because at The TravelRaval , we’re all about sensible travel.

Travel Advisory for Turkey

Safety tips for traveling to turkey, how safe is turkey for tourists, frequently asked questions (faqs).

We’ll be covering a lot of ground. It is reasonable that you might be preparing for a family trip to Turkey and that you are concerned about safety. Alternatively, you might desire to travel to Turkey alone as a female and be unsure of what to anticipate. Whatever your plans are, our insider guide to keeping safe in Turkey can assist you. Here’s the Turkey travel advisory for you – 

Safety and security – There is a travel advisory against traveling anywhere within 10 kilometers of the Syrian border. Also you need to avoid visiting Sirnak unless absolutely necessary.

• The risk of terrorism in the area is still high and fighting is still going on in parts of Syria that are close to the Turkish border.
• Roads in Hatay province leading to the border may be closed due to the ongoing conflict in Syria.
• You must avoid traveling to the province of Hakkari.
• For the moment, the region around Mount Ararat is under Turkish military restriction. If you plan to visit this region, exercise additional caution, stay current with local news, and respect the authorities’ instructions.

Political unrest – Turmoils are prevalent in Turkey. At times they become violent. Here are certain things that you must know – 

• All around Turkey, there are sporadic protests that occasionally turn violent. 
• In the past, Taksim Square and Istiklal Street have been the focal points of protests in Istanbul.
• The protests in Ankara have primarily occurred in the Kizilay neighborhood in the city center, close to the Turkish Parliament. 
• If a protest starts, you should leave the area immediately. 
• Protests have been widely dispersed by police using water cannons and tear gas. 
• Tear gas can be felt hundreds of meters away from the protest scene. 
• Following an attempted coup in July 2016, the situation in Turkey has normalized. 

Crime – In general, crime rates are low, however pickpocketing and street robberies are frequent in Istanbul’s main tourist districts. In addition – 

• Understand your limits if you plan to drink. Drinks are frequently stronger than those offered there. 
• Purchase your own drinks and keep track of them at all times to ensure they are not spiked.
• Avert people who approach you and offer you potentially drugged food and drink, money exchanges, rides to restaurants or clubs, or other services.
• Even when they were stored in the villa safe, passports have been taken from leased villas. This is a specific issue in the regions of Fethiye/Hisaronu/Ovacik, Didim, Safi, and Kokko and Kalkan.
• The US diplomatic office in Turkey received 30 reports of sexual assault incidents in 2019, including rape. 
• The majority of these cases happened in popular seaside tourist locations over the summer vacation time. 
• Numerous crimes were committed in the wee hours of the morning by someone the victim had just met. 
• Never take a ride from an unfamiliar person. Before boarding a registered yellow taxi, make a note of the registration number.
• Quite infrequently, travelers have died as a result of drinking counterfeit alcohol.
• Consult your tour company or the Turkish government for advice if you have any questions.

Road Travel – Be cautious when driving in Turkey, especially at night. Follow the directions of security agents as you approach checkpoints gently. In general – 

• Although the roads between the big cities are often in excellent condition, they can be in poor condition in isolated, rural areas. 
• Accidents occur often and are typically caused by negligent or irresponsible driving.
• Driving in Turkey requires either an International Driving Permit or a notarized copy of your UK/USA driver’s license. 
• You must change your UK/USA driver’s license into a Turkish one if you want to stay in Turkey continuously for more than six months. 
• Provisional driving licenses are not accepted.
• In Turkey, renting a motorcycle larger than 50cc requires a normal motorcycle license of the “A” category. 
• Motorbikes under 50 cc can only be driven with a license in the “A1” category, which is designated for “light motorcycles.” 
• A helmet is a legal requirement. A large fine could be assessed for failure to do so.
• You should not drink and drive.
• If you are caught driving while intoxicated, the police issue you a ticket right away, and take your license away for six months.
• Driving is only permitted in Turkey with a green card.

Air Travel – Terrorist attacks on Turkey’s aviation sector are more likely than usual. look at terrorism. Do the needful – 

• At airports, you must fully cooperate with security personnel.
• The safety of certain airlines cannot be recommended by the FCDO. The International Air Transport Association does, however, provide a list of registered airlines that have undergone audits and been deemed to comply with a variety of operational safety requirements and best practices. 

Sports of extreme difficulty – If you engage in extreme sports, such as hot air ballooning, white-water rafting, paragliding, or parasailing, be sure that all necessary safety measures are taken. In addition – 

• Use only trustworthy operators and insist on training prior to use. 
• Check that all of the activities you plan to engage in are covered by your travel insurance. Extreme sports have wounded and killed British citizens.

Stray animals – The majority of towns and cities have stray dogs. In addition – 

• Be cautious, keep your cool, and stay away from stray dogs. 
• If you are bitten, seek medical attention because rabies and other animal-borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Safest Places To Visit In Turkey

Is it safe to travel to Turkey? Not all areas of Turkey are secure, as we’ve already mentioned. We’ve listed the absolute best (and safest) areas, as well as the no-go zones, to make your travel planning a little easier.

Of all the Turkish cities, Istanbul is without a doubt the best in terms of lodging. Istanbul is the home to some of Turkey’s most well-known tourist attractions, so a vacation to Turkey isn’t complete without going there. Istanbul is a vibrant, multicultural city split in two by the Bosporus Strait. If you’re traveling on a budget and visiting Istanbul, you could take a boat excursion around the strait to get some excellent views of the city and to relax on the water.

Bodrum, which is located on Turkey’s Mediterranean Sea coast, is well known for its clean waters and a wide variety of beach activities. It also features an underwater archaeology museum! There are many inexpensive inns, hostels, and Airbnbs. In reality, Bodrum has some of Turkey’s most affordable hotels! If you’re hoping to party on the beach in Bodrum, you’re in luck! The Reef Beach Bar, the White House Bar, and the Mandalin are just a few of the fantastic bars that are located directly on the water. There are a tonne of alternatives available, from elegant and refined to wild and rowdy!

Cappadocia is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. Even celebrities, like Mel Gibsons and Dwayne Johnson visit this area. Cappadocia is fortunately one of the safest places in the nation, which is good news for everyone who has it on their bucket list to visit. I traveled to many towns and cities in Turkey, but Cappadocia was by far the safest place I felt. It is such a popular tourist site that you may find a cave hotel, restaurant, excursion store, or souvenir shop almost anywhere you look. Aside from Antalya, this is the only area where I felt secure enough to dress in mid-length dresses and skirts. If you are traveling to Turkey, you can travel with confidence knowing that this region is safe, reasonably priced, and wholly worthwhile.

Antalya is another well-known seaside town. Antalya, located in southern Turkey, is a popular destination for Russian travelers wishing to unwind, tan, and explore.I had a great time exploring this region! We remained in Kaleici (the Old Town) on our first day in Antalya, wandered around, and shot as many photos as we could to send to the family (especially of all the cats). We liked this neighborhood’s small eateries and thought that it had a great nightlife for tourists. After that, we headed to an all-inclusive resort on the water where we stayed to swim and sunbathe before the real adventure started. I’ll admit that the only activity we engaged in following check-in at the hotel was to lounge on a couple well-known beaches I had been longing to visit (particularly Mermerli Beach), but I believe we would have recommended it regardless! This means that Antalya is a vacation destination similar to Bodrum in terms of safety and sand if you’re a beach bum, sun worshiper, or all-inclusive vacation junkie.

Is Turkey a safe country? Turkey may be on the rocks as a result of terrorist attacks and civil unrest, but it is slowly rebuilding itself into the tourism empire it once was. Here are some safety recommendations for Turkey to assist you.

• Avoid participating in political demonstrations.
• Never flash money, expensive jewelry, or expensive clothing while you’re out and about.
• Scams occur in all different kinds and sizes, but ultimately, the old adage “don’t talk to strangers” applies.
• Keep your belongings near to you in tourist locations.
• Learn a few Turkish words and phrases for yourself.
• Carry your hotel/guesthouse/business hostel’s card with you.
• Don’t offend the Turkish government.
• Protect yourself from mosquitoes, which can be particularly bothersome in coastal settings. 
• Don’t do drugs – it’s against the law.
• It is illegal to take pictures of military sites.
• You don’t want to upset anyone, so learn about mosque etiquette.
• Public shows of affection are inappropriate in Turkey.
• Watch the news, stay away from large gatherings and religious events.
• Be cautious when it comes to terrorist strikes.
• Certain destinations may be more conservative than Istanbul and beach resorts.
• Turkey may get extremely hot during the summer, so drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun. 
• Never agree to anything’s initial price since it is always inflated. 
• Avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol because some of it may be stronger than usual. In Turkey, fake alcohol is a common occurrence.
• Be cautious of stray dog packs, especially in urban areas.

Turkey is a cool country. There are a variety of cultures all over the country, especially in Istanbul, which straddles Europe and Asia. There are also beach resorts and a tonne of wonderful natural features, like the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.

However, not all of Turkey would be considered to be completely safe. The security of Turkey has recently been endangered by the Syrian border, terrorist attacks, and clashes with the Kurds.

It would be unfortunate if travelers choose not to visit Turkey due to the situation in Syria. There is a whole nation to explore here. Most importantly, tourism benefits Turkey and aids in maintaining its stability.

Simply told, it is highly safe to travel to Turkey.

Particularly if you stay in the tourist regions, Turkey is a rather safe country. You might encounter issues with harassment, minor theft, and taxi scams, but you won’t likely suffer any significant harm.

Although we always urge caution and suggest you travel wisely, especially in big cities, we believe that Turkey is a safe country to visit. There are some places you should really avoid visiting. It is not safe anywhere within 10 kilometers of the Syrian border. Diyarbakir is likewise prohibited.

Turkey is absolutely safe for solitary tourists, although staying alert at all times will benefit. Follow recent news, communicate with family and friends back home, and most importantly, make new friends with other travelers as you go.

Well, regardless of what anyone thinks, many women do visit Turkey alone. Turkey is typically secure for female visitors traveling alone, yet there are always risks when doing so anywhere in the world. If you’re considering it, here are some suggestions for a little more security. Say “no” without fear. It’s stupid to wander about alone after dark. Dressing conservatively is generally the best option. Taking a guided tour is a wise decision. Catcalling frequently occurs.  When entering a mosque, cover your head with a shawl or scarf.

Families are particularly important in Turkish culture, and kids are very popular among locals. Families can travel safely to Turkey for this and many other reasons. Don’t worry if a waiter, a native, or a tour guide scoops up your kid without asking and starts swinging them around to show them off to everyone. This is rather typical and demonstrates the Turkish people’s warmth and concern for children more than anything else.

Driving is a convenient and safe method to navigate across Turkey and take in the sights at your own pace.

Hailing an Uber is safe in the country. Apparently, it is only available in Ankara and Istanbul.

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Home > Is Turkey A Safe Country To Travel To Now? Latest Travel Advice For Türkiye

Is Turkey A Safe Country To Travel To Now? Latest Travel Advice For Türkiye

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.

Are you wondering if Turkey is safe for tourists? We have the answer to that question (and more!) in this guide to crime and safety in Türkiye. I reside in Türkiye and have done so for more than 12 years, so I know all too well about what it’s like here right now.

Looking for an exotic and thrilling destination to explore in 2024? Turkey might be the perfect place for you ! With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, this Eurasian country has recently become a popular tourist spot.

But with news of political unrest and rising crime rates making headlines worldwide, many travelers ask themselves: is Turkey a safe place to visit?

If you’re planning a trip to this fascinating land but don’t know what to expect regarding Turkish security concerns, look no further than our comprehensive guide on crime rates and safety measures in Turkey.

From major cities like Istanbul to remote villages off the beaten path, we’ll help you navigate the risks and confidently enjoy your adventure. So buckle up and get ready for an informative ride!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

How Safe Is Turkey For Tourists?

Living here, I’ve often found Türkiye to be very secure, sometimes even more so than some spots in the UK and States. The locals are curious folks and don’t hesitate to lend a hand if things go south.

Turkey Travel Appeal As A Tourist Destination

The Turkish border has eight countries: Greece , Georgia, Bulgaria , Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria.

It has a population of over 84 million people and covers an area of 780,000 square kilometers. Türkiye is a republic with a parliamentary system of government, and its capital is Ankara . The official language is Turkish.

Türkiye is often referred to as the “gateway between East and West” due to its location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

The country has a rich culture and history that dates back to the ancient civilizations of Anatolia (the Asian part of modern Turkey) . Today, Türkiye is a modern country with a thriving economy and a growing tourism industry.

In recent years, Türkiye has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Turkey was the 4th most visited country in 2021!

There are several reasons why Turkey is becoming such a popular tourist destination. The country has a diverse landscape with beautiful beaches , mountains, forests, and historical sites . Türkiye also offers excellent value for money with affordable accommodation, food, and activities. In addition, Turkish people are known for their hospitality, which makes visitors feel welcome and safe in the country.

Despite being a relatively safe country overall, some areas of Türkiye are more dangerous than others. Overall, the dangers of Turkey are low. Crime rates vary depending on the location, but Turkey is safe.

Find out how safe Istanbul is here.

Crime rates in türkiye: how safe is turkey.

Turkey is a relatively safe country, but its crime rates have been increasing in recent years. According to the Turkish National Police, the number of violent crimes has increased – though still low enough to be considered safe. The most common crimes are

• Notoriously high levels of petty crime
• Pickpocketing

Both of these occur mostly in crowded areas like markets and tourist destinations. There has also been an elevated level of ATM robberies and credit card fraud .

Avoid pickpockets and bag snatchings by using these bags.

While these crime statistics may seem alarming, it’s important to remember that Türkiye is still a relatively safe country, and these crime rates are much the same as other big cities across the globe.

The vast majority of visitors experience no problems while traveling in Turkey.

However, taking some basic safety precautions when traveling to Turkey, such as keeping your valuables hidden and being aware of your surroundings, is always a good idea.

If you do find yourself in a situation where you are being harassed or threatened, don’t be afraid to speak up or ask for help from the police or security guards.

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Other safety and security issues in türkiye.

• Crimes of kidnapping
• Earthquakes
• Violent Demonstrations
• Frauds & scams (find the top 5 scams here)

Find a guide to currency in Turkey here.

Areas & regions to avoid in türkiye.

Turkey is generally a safe country for tourists, but there are some areas and regions that you should avoid.

The first area to avoid is the far southeast of the country. This region of Türkiye has been plagued by violence and crime in recent years, and it is unsafe for tourists.

Cities and provinces to avoid in the area are:

• Hakkari province 
• Province of Hatay

You should also avoid traveling to the border regions. Particularly the Iraqi and Syrian border areas. These regions are unstable and dangerous, and they are unsafe for you.

Overall, Türkiye is a safe country for tourists, but you should avoid these areas and regions in Turkey.

2024 update: Popular tourist destinations like Gaziantep , Sanliurfa (Urfa), Mardin, and Diyarbakir have seen increased stability in recent years, and they’re fantastic places to go. 

FAQs About Travel To türkiye & Staying Safe

Is turkey safe for americans.

Totally yes. Americans in Turkey are 100% safe. There are no political worries for Americans at all. 

The US Department of State places Türkiye at a level 2, meaning ‘exercise increased caution.’ 

Is Turkey Safe For Solo Travelers

Turkey is a safe country for solo travelers , with a relatively low crime rate and many opportunities to meet other travelers. However, there are a few things to remember to stay safe while traveling in Turkey. 

• It’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable in any situation, leave immediately
• Avoid walking alone at night or in poorly lit areas. If you must walk alone, keep to well-lit and busy streets
• Be cautious when using public transportation, especially at night. Avoid empty trains and buses, and try to travel with other people if possible
• Don’t flash your valuables in public or leave them unguarded in your hotel room. Keep your money and passport securely stored away when not in use
• Always let someone know where you’re going before heading out solo. This way, someone will know to check on you if you don’t return as expected

By following these simple safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip while traveling solo in Türkiye.

Is Safe Safe To Travel To Turkey For Female Travelers

It is a common question that I am asked: Is it safe to travel to Turkey as a woman?”. Let me say that yes, Turkey is a safe country for female travelers, with a low incidence of crime towards female travelers and plenty of security measures in place wherever you go. However, it is always advisable to take precautions when traveling to any destination, and Türkiye is no different from any other big city across the globe.

Please read  our guide on travel to Turkey as a female here.

Do us citizens need a visa for turkey.

Good news for US travelers – as of January 2024, the visa requirement for Türkiye has been lifted for you! This means you can enjoy visa-free travel, making your trip planning a whole lot smoother. Just pack your bags and go! 

Do Australian & UK Citizens Need a Visa for Türkiye?

Yes, Aussie and UK citizens do need a visa to visit Türkiye. But don’t worry, it’s not a hassle. You can easily apply for an e-Visa online before your trip. It’s quick and straightforward, and you’ll usually get it sorted within minutes. Just fill out the form, pay the fee, and you’re all set for your Turkish adventure.

How Long Can I Stay in Türkiye?

On a standard tourist visa, you’re good for 90 days within a 180-day period. Thinking of hanging around longer? That means diving into the world of residence permits and trust me, it’s a bit of a maze. And heads up, entry rules can change, so do a quick check before you head out.

Is Turkey Safe For The LGBTQ+ Community

Türkiye is often considered a safe country for LGBTQ+ individuals, as there are no legal penalties for homosexual relations, and the government has taken steps to protect queer people from hate crimes.

However, homophobia is still prevalent in Turkish society, and violence against LGBTQ+ people does occur from time to time. The best way to stay safe as an LGBTQ+ individual in Türkiye is to be aware of the risks and take precautions against them.

Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, and conservative attitudes toward homosexuality are common, especially in more rural areas. 

There have been some reports of violence against LGBTQ+ people in Turkey, although it is difficult to know how widespread this problem is. The best way to stay safe is to avoid public displays of affection and being open about your sexuality in places that could put you at risk. If you are attacked or harassed, report the incident to the police.

Safety Measures To Consider When Visiting Turkey

Turkey is generally a safe country for tourists, but there are some safety measures to consider when visiting. The first is to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in busy areas. If you are carrying valuables, keep them close to your body and out of sight. It is also a good idea to avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches.

There have been reports of pickpocketing and bag snatching in Türkiye, so it is important to always keep your belongings close to you. Be especially careful on public transportation, as thieves often target tourists on these crowded platforms. If you are using an ATM, be sure to conceal your PIN and keep an eye on your surroundings.

As with any travel destination, researching the local laws and customs before visiting Turkey is always a good idea.

For example, there are strict laws about:

• It is against the law to drink alcohol in public places
• It is illegal to drive after consuming any alcohol
• It is also illegal to take photographs of military buildings or personnel
• Turkish Alcohol & Drinking Laws

What To Do If Something Goes Wrong In Türkiye

If you find yourself in a situation where you feel unsafe, you can do a few things. First, try to stay calm and think clearly. If you can, move to a safe place away from the immediate danger. Then, call the police (dial 112) or other emergency services.

Public Transport In Turkey: How Safe Is It

Public transportation in Türkiye is safe for tourists if you take precautions to avoid pickpockets and bag snatchings. Take care when using public transport at night. Be alert and aware of your surroundings, and don’t flash valuables in busy areas. If possible, use a licensed taxi driver or ride-sharing services.

Read all about taxis and Uber in Turkey here.

Terrorism in turkey.

I left this to last, as it’s such a complicated topic. But the facts are facts. There have been previous terrorist attacks in Turkey. In fact, there have been several terrorist attacks globally in the past few years, and Turkey is no exception. I felt that not covering all the potential risks associated with traveling to Turkey would be unjust.

You should know that Turkey has faced several terrorist attacks throughout its history, perpetrated by a variety of terrorist groups for divergent political and ideological reasons.

The most recent was in October 2023 in Ankara , when a suicide bomb attack occurred in Turkey’s capital, Ankara, which has been attributed to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Turkish police have launched a wide security crackdown in response to the attack.

Before that was November 2022, when an explosion occurred on a busy Sunday afternoon on the streets of Istanbul. Istiklal Street, Taksim to be exact. This is one of the busiest parts of the city, where six people died and 81 were wounded. The threat of terrorism still exists from several groups, including:

• Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) Attacks: The PKK, which seeks an independent Kurdish state, has been involved in a protracted armed conflict with the Turkish state since the 1980s. They have conducted numerous attacks, primarily in southeastern Turkey .
• ISIS Attacks: ISIS has claimed responsibility for several attacks on Turkish soil. One prominent attack was at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul in 2016, where 45 people were killed and over 230 were injured.
• Left-Wing Militant Attacks: Left-wing militant groups like the Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C) have also carried out attacks in Turkey, often targeting police and security forces.
• Al-Qaeda Attacks: Al-Qaeda has orchestrated attacks in Turkey, such as the 2003 bombings of synagogues, the British Consulate, and a British bank in Istanbul, which resulted in over 60 deaths and hundreds of injuries.

These examples demonstrate the complexity and multi-faceted nature of the threat of terrorist attacks faced by Turkey. The nation has seen incidents from nationalist, religious, and leftist militant groups, each with their distinct motives and methods. 

How To Stay Safe Regarding Terrorism Threats

As there is the potential for terrorist attacks and civil unrest in any country you travel to, it is advisable to keep up to date with the local security situation. I like to do that through a few places, including

• this Australian travel advisory run by the Australian government
• or this one run by the United States Department of State
• British Nationals can find the same information on the Foreign Travel Advice board

Register your trip with your embassy or consulate and follow any guidance they provide as they keep abreast of the latest information with Turkish authorities on all potential threats.

Once you are in Türkiye, always be vigilant in public areas and always avoid participating in large gatherings and protest groups, as these can escalate into violence. Watch local media and follow the advice of local authorities. 

You should also have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers terrorism (and medical evacuation) and ensures your loved ones have a copy of your travel itinerary.

Forest Fires In Türkiye

When planning a trip to Türkiye, it’s smart to stay informed about forest fires, a natural phenomenon that can impact certain areas, especially during dry seasons. Türkiye, known for its diverse landscapes, does experience forest fires, and being prepared is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

How Often & Where?

Forest fires often occur in Türkiye during the summer months, typically from June to September. The regions most affected are often the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, areas popular for their stunning beaches and scenic beauty. 

Places like Antalya, Muğla, and Izmir have seen their share of fires in recent years. However, it’s worth noting that these incidents, while serious, aren’t an everyday occurrence and shouldn’t deter you from visiting these beautiful regions.

Staying Informed

Knowledge is power, especially when traveling. Keep an eye on local news and weather reports. The Turkish government and local authorities often issue warnings and updates if there’s a risk of fire. Additionally, apps and websites that track environmental conditions can be handy tools for real-time updates.

What To Do In Case Of A Forest Fire

• Stay Calm and Informed: if you’re near an area affected by a fire, stay calm. Keep up-to-date with local news and follow any instructions or evacuation orders from local authorities
• Safety First: if you find yourself in an area close to a fire, prioritize your safety. Follow evacuation routes and avoid trying to ‘explore’ or get a closer look
• Contact Your Embassy: in emergencies, it’s a good idea to contact your embassy. They can offer guidance and assistance if needed
• Local Emergency Services: know the contact details of local emergency services. In Türkiye, you can dial 112 for emergencies

After The Fires

Türkiye’s resilience in the face of natural challenges is noteworthy. Affected areas often bounce back surprisingly quickly, and supporting these regions through tourism can be a meaningful way to help local communities recover.

While forest fires are a reality in parts of Türkiye, they’re generally well-managed and shouldn’t overshadow the many wonders this country has to offer. By staying informed and prepared, you can enjoy the rich experiences of Türkiye with peace of mind. Remember, travel is as much about adventure as it is about being smart and safe!

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So, Is Turkey A Safe Country Or Not – Latest Travel Advice

Touring Turkey is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences that any traveler can have. With its rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and a vast array of attractions, Turkey has something for everyone . 

An unpredictable security situation can arise in any foreign country, but Turkey boasts an excellent safety record with low violent crime rates and robust security measures to ensure visitors’ safety. Whether traveling alone or with family, you should feel confident in knowing that your visit to Türkiye will be both safe and memorable.

So get ready, pack your bags, your common sense, and, of course, your appropriate travel insurance policy, and have the time of your life.

• Power Plugs In Turkey: Voltage & Adapter Needs

So tell me, did I answer your questions about traveling safely in Turkey? I hope you can see that Turkey is a safe destination and that you have a memorable and worry-free vacation.

• The Do’s And Don’ts Of Visiting Turkey
• Best Places To Visit In Turkey For Every Type Of Traveler
• How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia
• Best Nightlife In Istanbul
• Day Trips To Take From Istanbul
• Greek Island Day Trip From Southern Turkey
• Best Beaches To Visit In Turkey
• Ephesus, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• How To Get From Pamukkale To Cappadocia
• How To Choose Between Antalya Or Bodrum

Comments (3)

Thanks SJ and family. Enjoyed reading your Turkey review; we are planning to visit Istanbul from Dallas, Texas at end of December for a week, first time visiting.

Wasn’t there an attack in Ankara just a short time ago?? Maybe Oct 2023??

Uffff yes you are correct, I wrote this post end of November before that blast. Thanks for reminding me, I have updated it.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the threat of terrorism.

Higher levels apply.

Turkiye (PDF 895.52 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.

In major cities, call 155. English speaking officers aren't always available.

In rural areas, call Jandarma on 156. English speaking officers are rarely available.

English-speaking officers may be available in police departments at:

In Istanbul, call the dedicated Tourist Police unit on (+90) 212 527 4503.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the threat of terrorism.

See Safety .

Do not travel to within 10km of the border with Syria.

Do not travel  to within 10km of the border with Syria due to serious threat of terrorism, violence and acts of war in this area. 

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak.

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak due to the unpredictable security situation.

• There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye. Possible targets include tourist areas, transport networks, shopping malls, hotels, places of worship and diplomatic premises. Be alert to potential threats, especially in locations frequented by foreigners. Avoid crowds, keep a low profile and be aware of your surroundings. Monitor the media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Demonstrations and protests can occur and may turn violent. Avoid protests and large public gatherings. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• There is an ongoing risk of earthquake in parts of Türkiye. Know the dangers of a major earthquake in your area and where your local shelter is.
• There's an increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the region. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. 

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Malaria is a risk from May to October in Amikova, Çukurova Plain and the southeast. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Other insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis, measles and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked foods.
• Alcoholic drinks could be mixed with toxic substances, including methanol. Drink only at reputable venues. Avoid homemade alcohol. Get medical help straight away if you suspect poisoning.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences.
• By law, you must always carry a photo ID. You should carry your passport with you at all times. 
• It's illegal to 'insult' Türkiye, the Turkish flag, the President or government, and the country's founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Don't make insulting comments, including on social media.
• It's illegal to photograph military sites.
• Many parts of Türkiye have conservative dress and behaviour standards. Dress modestly, particularly at mosques and shrines. Respect religious and social traditions. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

You'll need an e-visa for tourism or business if you're staying for less than 90 days in a 180-day period.

• If you're travelling to Türkiye to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead. Read our ' Travel overseas for Anzac Day'  page for further information on attending the event.
• If you're travelling to Türkiye for medical services, you should apply for a medical visa through the  HealthTürkiye  online portal.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Türkiye for the latest details.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Ankara , the Australian Consulate in Istanbul, or the Australian Consulate in Canakkale.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye.

Most terrorist attacks have taken place in the southeast of the country, Ankara or Istanbul. 

Attacks could take place anywhere and at any time, including in places visited by foreigners. Possible targets include:

• tourist sites
• public transport and transport hubs
• markets/shopping malls
• government facilities
• diplomatic premises
• hotels, clubs, restaurants
• places of worship
• courts and the judiciary
• political parties
• major sporting and cultural events
• educational institutions

Terrorists have also previously targeted Western interests and places associated with the Turkish security forces, such as military barracks and police vehicles.

Previous methods of attack have included armed assaults, suicide bombings, car bombings, rocket attacks, arson, and improvised explosive devices left in garbage bins, crowded areas, shops, and public transport.

To protect yourself:

• be alert to threats, especially in public places and around significant dates
• keep a low profile and be aware of your surroundings
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for new and emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there is an attack, leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to do so.

If you plan to travel to Türkiye to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead. Read our ' Travel overseas for Anzac Day'  page for further information on attending the event.

Border regions

The threat of terrorist attacks, violence and acts of war is high along the borders with Syria and Iraq. In the past, rockets have been fired from Syria and Iraq into Turkish territory.

South-eastern provinces

The south-eastern and eastern provinces see occasional clashes, particularly between the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) terrorist group and Turkish security forces.

Attacks by the PKK on government institutions, infrastructure and other sites have affected civilians.

More information:

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

Terrorist groups operating in Syria and Iraq kidnap and murder westerners. These groups may extend their operations into Türkiye.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information:  

• Kidnapping  

Civil unrest and political tension

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations occur regularly in major cities in response to:

• domestic events
• international events
• political developments

Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have led to heightened tensions in the region. Large demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul. 

There are nearly 4 million Syrian and other refugees in Türkiye. Anti-refugee sentiment can be a source of tension and occasionally violence. 

Demonstrations can happen without warning. 

Extremists have targeted political protests.

Peaceful events can turn violent.

Protests in Istanbul have centred around:

• Taksim Square
• Istiklal Street
• streets surrounding Istikal as far as the Galata Tower and down to Karakoy
• Okmeydani on the European side
• Kadikoy on the Asian side

Protests in Ankara often centre around the Kizilay and Tunali areas. They have targeted diplomatic missions.

Protests also happen in other districts of Istanbul and Ankara and other cities and towns, including:

May Day rallies on 1 May can become violent, particularly in Ankara and Istanbul.

Mass rallies often occur during the Persian New Year, 20 - 21 March.

Police break up crowds using the following:

• water cannons
• plastic bullets

Tear gas can spread to surrounding areas.

Local authorities can ban events, such as public gatherings, celebrations, demonstrations and protests, with little warning. 

They may also impose or extend curfews without warning.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid political gatherings, protests and demonstrations
• obey curfews
• monitor the media and other sources
• be alert around key dates, such as 20 to 21 March and 1 May 
• plan your activities to avoid possible unrest on significant dates

Be prepared to change your travel plans. Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help if there are transport disruptions.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Theft and assault

Common crimes include:

• pickpocketing
• bag snatching

Crime is especially common in the tourist areas of Istanbul, including:

• Sultanahmet
• the Grand Bazaar
• the Spice Bazaar

To stay safe, monitor local sources for information on crime and:

• pay close attention to your personal belongings, particularly on public transport and in crowded places
• avoid secluded parks and unlit areas
• avoid ATMs on the street, especially at night
• use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centres

Drink and food spiking

Foreigners, including Australians, have been drugged by English-speaking strangers who steal their belongings and passports.

Drugs can be present in:

• chewing gum
• confectionery

These drugs can cause you to become disoriented and compliant. You may even become unconscious.

To reduce your risk of food or drink spiking:

• be wary of overly friendly strangers
• don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers or new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended

Sexual assault

Women may experience physical and verbal harassment. This is more common in regional and conservative areas.

There's been an increase in violent  sexual assaults  against women travelling alone or in small groups. Assaults have happened in popular tourist areas, including Istanbul and coastal resorts like Antalya. The assailant is often a person the victim has just met.

There have been reports of sexual assaults on minors alone in public toilets.

If you're a woman:

• avoid travelling alone, especially after dark
• avoid isolated locations
• be wary of new friends and acquaintances
• stick with people you trust

If a child in your care needs to use a public toilet, go with them.

• Advice for women
• Sexual assault overseas

Scams  commonly target travellers.

Friendly English-speaking locals may try to scam you out of thousands of dollars.

Typically, these scammers take you to a bar for food or drinks. You're then presented with an inflated bill, often thousands of dollars, and threatened with violence if you don't pay. These scams are regularly reported, particularly in Istanbul.

Scams involving inflated taxi prices or taxis taking longer routes than needed have also been reported. These are particularly common to and from airports in Istanbul. 

Scams are also common among carpet traders.

To protect yourself from scams:

• insist your taxi driver uses the meter
• pay attention to your surroundings
• be wary of deals where your carpet trader arranges to send you goods by post

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities such as diving and ballooning.

If you plan to do a tour or  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
• if proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Türkiye experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

If there is a natural disaster or severe weather event:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with friends and family
• monitor the media and other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Bush and forest fires often occur during the summer months, from June to September. Conditions can change quickly. Monitor the local media and follow the advice of local authorities. Read our advice on what to do if you're overseas and  there's a bushfire near you .  

These are most common in heavily forested areas with high temperatures and low rainfall.

Fires have burned close to holiday areas, including:

• the Aegean coast
• the Mediterranean coast
• the Gallipoli peninsula

Earthquakes

Earthquakes  are a constant risk in Türkiye. There have been major earthquakes in recent years, including in February 2023, when 2 earthquakes occurred in Kahramanmaras province, close to Gaziantep, causing mass fatalities.

The North Anatolian fault runs 20km south of Istanbul and is one of the world's most active. Know the dangers of a major earthquake in your area and where your local shelter is.

Large, damaging earthquakes could happen at any time. Aftershocks can continue for days or weeks.

When an earthquake happens, you should drop, cover and hold. If an earthquake is long or strong and you're near the coast or other large body of water, you should go to higher ground immediately.

If you're indoors during an earthquake:

• move no more than a few steps to a heavy, solid object you can get underneath, and hold onto it
• don't try to run outside
• stay indoors until the shaking stops
• stay away from windows, chimneys, and shelves with heavy objects

If you're in bed:

• hold onto the bed and stay where you are
• protect your head and body with a pillow and blankets

If you're outdoors:

• move to the nearest clear spot
• keep away from buildings, trees and power lines
• drop to the ground

If you're in a car:

• drive to a clear place away from buildings, trees and power lines
• stay in the car with your seatbelt on until the shaking stops

If you're in a lift:

• stop at the nearest floor and get out

After the earthquake finishes:

• be aware of possible tsunami risks
• prepare for travel delays
• reconfirm your travel arrangements
• check your accommodation with travel agents and tour operators
• let your family/friends know that you're safe

During a crisis, local authorities are responsible for helping people living or travelling within their jurisdictions.

More information

•  Read our  advice on earthquake risk and response .

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides across Türkiye. This can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Severe drought conditions can affect the water supply to several cities.

Running water may not be available in many places, including hotels.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Türkiye. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Medical tourism.

Each year, many Australians travel for medical tourism. 

Unfortunately, things don't always go as planned. We're aware of several cases in recent years where Australians have experienced serious complications after their procedures in Türkiye.   

If you're considering undertaking medical treatment in Türkiye, you should do your research including on whether your insurance will cover you. Read our advice on travelling overseas for medical tourism before you go. 

The  HealthTürkiye  portal lists the medical providers authorised by the Turkish Ministry of Health .  We can't provide recommendations or endorsements for any particular health providers. You should discuss your plans carefully with your Australian doctor, dentist or hospital specialist before committing to any procedure overseas.

• Health Services General Directorate
• Authorised Healthcare Providers 
• International Health Services Call Center  

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria  is a risk from May to October in:

• Çukurova Plain
• the south-east

There's no malaria risk in the main tourist areas in the west and southwest of the country.

Other insect-borne diseases occur, including:

• leishmaniasis
• Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF)

CCHF is common in:

• central Anatolia to the north
• east of Ankara

Seasonal summer outbreaks of CCHF have been fatal.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human deaths from  bird flu (avian influenza)  have been confirmed in Türkiye.

Talk to your doctor about bird flu as part of your pre-travel health checks.

Measles cases routinely occur in Türkiye, with the country experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Measles Outbreaks 2019 (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Measles immunisation service (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases occur, including:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Poisoning from alcoholic drinks

Locals and travellers have reported poisoning from alcoholic drinks. Drinks may be contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol.

Locals and travellers have become seriously ill after drinking contaminated alcohol.

Consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages, particularly drinks made with spirits.

Labels on bottles aren't always accurate.

To stay safe:

• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks

Symptoms of  methanol poisoning  can be similar to the effects of drinking too much. This includes fatigue, headaches and nausea.

If you suspect that you, or someone you're with, has been poisoned, get urgent medical attention. It could save you from permanent disability or death.

• Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the police.

Medical care

The standard of medical facilities in Türkiye varies.

Private hospitals with facilities comparable to those in Australia exist in major cities. Services can be limited outside of major cities.

Private hospitals usually need confirmation of insurance or a guarantee of payment before admitting a patient. Costs can be high.

Decompression chambers are available near popular dive sites and major cities in:

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may be able to receive treatment at a private or teaching hospital in Ankara or Istanbul. However, medical evacuation could be necessary. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Australians who reside in Türkiye for more than 12 months may have access to Türkiye's Universal Health Insurance (UHI).

• Republic of Türkiye Social Security Institution  (in Turkish)

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Following the end of a State of Emergency in 2018, local authorities continue to have increased legal powers.

Authorities have detained thousands of people suspected of having links to alleged terrorist groups. Detainees have limited rights.

Authorities may prevent foreigners and dual nationals from departing Türkiye.

Penalties for using or possessing drugs are severe. They include long jail sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Hiking Mount Ararat

Mount Ararat, between the eastern provinces of Agri and Igdir, is designated a 'special military zone'. You must hire the services of a locally licensed guide if you intend to hike in the area. A licensed company will obtain the necessary permits and assign you to a registered Mountaineer to accompany you throughout your hike. Visiting Mount Ararat without the Turkish government's permission is an offence that could incur severe penalties.

By law, you must always carry a photo ID. Carry your passport with you at all times. 

Illegal activities could result in severe penalties including:

• taking photos of military installations
• searching for historical artefacts without authorisation
• defacing or destroying Turkish currency
• failing to comply with Turkish visa conditions or immigration regulations
• supporting terrorist organisations in Türkiye, including expressions of support on social media

It's also illegal to 'insult':

• the Turkish flag
• the Turkish President or Government
• the founder of Türkiye, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

This includes making insulting comments on social media. Penalties can be severe.

Selling or exporting antiquities and cultural artefacts without a permit is also illegal. You'll need a receipt and an official certificate to export these goods legally.

If you're arrested or detained, you may be deported from Türkiye. This may happen after your court hearings or after completing your sentence. You may be deported even if you're not convicted.

If you're arrested, ask the local authorities to tell the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs  

Dual citizenship

The Turkish government recognises dual citizenship.

However, Turkish-Australian dual nationals are treated as Turkish citizens in legal matters. If you're a dual citizen, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

If you are a male Turkish-Australian dual national, you could be forced to complete military service when you arrive.

Check your obligations with an  embassy or consulate  of Türkiye before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Türkiye. Some regions are more conservative than others.

Avoid offending locals by respecting religious and social traditions.

Dress modestly, particularly at mosques and religious shrines.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in Türkiye. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking in public during the day may not be culturally appropriate in some areas. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. 

Some areas are more tolerant of travellers and locals who don't fast. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our  Ramadan  page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted in Turkish society.

LGBTQIA+ events and gatherings may be subject to local government bans.

Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ t ravellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Use the official Turkish government site to  apply for an e-visa  online.

Be wary of using unauthorised websites. They may charge for information on e-visas.

Apply for a medical visa through the  HealthTürkiye  online portal if you're travelling to Türkiye to seek medical services (see 'Health').

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document.

If you're not eligible for an e-visa, you'll need to arrange a visa through an  embassy or consulate  of Türkiye before you arrive. If you don't, authorities may refuse entry.

If you're a tourist and arrive by sea, visiting the surrounding areas for up to 72 hours without a visa might be possible. Check your visa requirements with your travel operator or local authorities at the port of entry, and make sure you get entry and exit stamps in your passport. 

If you don't abide by your visa or permit terms, you may be fined, deported and banned from re-entering Türkiye.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  nearest embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

• Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Turkish Ministry of Tourism and Culture information on COVID-19

Entry into Türkiye

Before travelling to Türkiye, check if you'll be able to return to your country of origin or if you can travel onward to your next destination. Some countries may impose quarantine or other restrictions on travellers coming from Türkiye.

Travel with children

If you're  travelling with a child  aged under 18 years, you may need to provide proof that you're the legal parent or guardian. Check with the  embassy or consulate  of Türkiye before you travel.

Border Crossings

All border crossings from Syria are currently closed.

Crossing the border to or from Iraq is difficult. Military activity in the region is ongoing. The Turkish Government tightly controls entry and exit.

Other formalities

If you enter or leave Türkiye by land or sea borders, make sure immigration authorities process you correctly. This applies even for a short trip, such as visiting the Greek Islands.

Make sure your passport is stamped for every exit and arrival. If you don't, you could face difficulties when departing, including:

• possible fines
• future travel bans
• deportation

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you are just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you are not sure it will be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It is attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency in Türkiye is the Lira (TRY).

Most services accept credit cards, but carry a small amount of cash just in case.

EFTPOS and ATMs are widely available.

Local travel

Anzac cove and gallipoli historical site.

The weather can change suddenly in the Gallipoli region.

Winter storms and heavy traffic seriously affect many coastal roads around Gallipoli. This includes roads in the Gallipoli Historical Site.

• be prepared for a range of weather conditions
• obey safety signs and directions
• don't wander off marked roads and tracks
• don't separate from your tour group

More information: 

• Travel overseas for Anzac Day

Driving permit

You can drive in Türkiye for up to 6 months if you have a valid Australian driver's licence

You must get a Turkish driver's licence if you plan to drive for longer than 6 months after your arrival in Türkiye.

• Turkish Security Directorate (Turkish)

Road travel

Travelling at night on country roads can be hazardous due to poor lighting and local driving practices.

Drink-driving carries a minimum penalty of:

• an on-the-spot fine
• confiscation of your driver's licence

Get to know the local road rules and practices.

Check if your travel insurance will cover you before driving.

In the event of a car accident:

• For accidents with only vehicular damage, exchange insurance information, take photos of the accident before moving the vehicles, and depart if both sides agree. Turkish law requires drivers to fill out a Turkish-only form and provide pictures of the damage. Non-Turkish speakers should call and wait for the police.
• For accidents involving an injury or a disagreement, remain at the site of the accident. Do not move the vehicle – even out of the way – until the Traffic Police arrive. Report the accident to the Traffic Police (dial 155) or Jandarma (dial 156). Get a certified copy of the official report from the Traffic Police office (this can take several days).
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Avoid using motorcycles due to the poor standard of driving.

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you for riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only licensed taxis or reputable limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel.

Taxis in major cities are generally professional, metered and charge according to set rates.

Insist your taxi driver uses the meter.

In rural areas and small towns, you may need to negotiate rates.

Public transport

Türkiye has an extensive inter-city bus and train network. 

• Transport and getting around safely

International and domestic flights fly out of the new Istanbul Airport instead of Ataturk Airport.

Turkish airports and commercial aircraft have been the subject of terrorist attacks. See  Safety

Enhanced security measures are in place at major airports.

Airports are often crowded, and security checks can cause delays.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Türkiye's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For  consular assistance in Türkiye , contact the:

• Australian Embassy in Ankara
• Australian Consulate-General in Istanbul
• Australian Consulate in Çanakkale

You'll need to make an appointment in advance.

Australian Embassy, Ankara

88 Uğur Mumcu Caddesi  Gaziosmanpaşa Ankara 

Phone: +90 312 459 9500  Website:  turkey.embassy.gov.au Email:  [email protected] Facebook: Australia in Türkiye X: @AusAmbTürkiye

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Istanbul

Süzer Plaza (Ritz Carlton Hotel), Askerocaĝı Caddesi No. 15, Elmadağ Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 393 3300 Email:  [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Çanakkale

Kolin Hotel  Kepez 17100 Çanakkale

Phone: (+90 286) 218 1721  Email:  [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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