Safety in Turkey

Safety in Turkey is a topic to approach with awareness, as most governments advise visitors to ‘exercise increased caution’. While many people relocate and live there without problems, you should avoid certain areas, such as the border between Turkey and Syria. Road safety is also a major concern, and you should take to the roads with caution.

Crime in Turkey

Crime in Turkey is statistically low for violent offences, but you should be vigilant, particularly in popular tourist areas of Istanbul, Ankara, and the coastal resorts. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and muggings can occur. You should follow normal precautions to lower your risk: stay alert, keep your valuables out of sight and avoid unlit areas at night.

Female travellers should be particularly cautious. There are reports of sexual assault, including in taxis and Turkish baths (hamams). You should avoid travelling alone at night.

Residential safety in Turkey

When looking for a home, be aware that residential safety in Turkey can vary. Burglary is a risk, particularly in major cities. Ground-floor apartments are often targeted by thieves, so you may want to prioritise accommodation with good security features, such as a ‘site’ (secure compound) or a building with a doorman.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Turkey

Scams in Turkey

You should be alert to common scams in Turkey, especially in high-traffic tourist zones. A frequent trick is the ‘shoe shiner’ scam, where someone drops a brush in front of you. After you kindly pick it up, they will offer a ‘free’ shine as thanks, only to aggressively demand payment afterwards.

Be wary of overly friendly locals or ‘helpful’ strangers who offer to show you a ‘great’ bar or club. This often leads to a room where you will be presented with an extortionate bill and intimidated into paying. Likewise, be cautious with taxi drivers; always insist on the meter and have your route mapped on your phone. Some drivers may claim the meter is broken to charge a flat, high fare.

Terrorism in Turkey

Terrorism in Turkey remains a high threat, according to most Western governments. While large-scale attacks have decreased since 2017, isolated incidents have occurred in Istanbul and Ankara as recently as 2024. The southeastern portion of Turkey is still considered dangerous. Several governments carry advisories against all travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak. You should also avoid any area within six miles (10km) of Turkey’s border with Syria. Be vigilant in locations frequented by foreigners, including tourist sites, shopping malls, and transport hubs.

Social and political unrest in Turkey

Social and political unrest in Turkey is a significant factor. Politically motivated demonstrations can occur at short notice and are common in major cities, especially in areas like Taksim Square in Istanbul and Kızılay Square in Ankara. These demonstrations can turn violent, and police often respond with tear gas and water cannons. You should monitor local developments and avoid all large political gatherings and demonstrations. Participating in anti-government demonstrations (including filming or posting about them online) can lead to your arrest and deportation.

Road safety in Turkey

Road safety in Turkey is a major concern, and you will likely find driving a challenge. Although highways in tourist regions are generally well maintained, the country has a high rate of road accidents. Local driving standards can be poor; many drivers ignore traffic regulations, such as red lights and stop signs, and driving at night is particularly hazardous due to poor lighting and badly maintained vehicles.

Drivers do not always give pedestrians the right of way, even at designated zebra crossings. You should therefore exercise extreme caution when crossing the street.

Transport and Driving in Turkey