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Turkey is a top tourist destination, offering a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures that attracts visitors from around the globe. As a leading holiday destination, many ask the question, is Turkey safe?
In short, Turkey is safe, with most travelers and expats loving the country and all it has to offer, Still, remaining informed is important to ensure a safe stay in Turkey.
In this guide you will learn about:
Is Turkey Safe to Travel?
In general, Turkey is safe to travel for tourists. As one of the leading holiday destinations, tourists can safely enjoy the country provided they follow the guidelines provided by international and local authorities.
Popular areas like Cappadocia and Istanbul are considered safe for travelers. However, visitors in Turkey are advised not to travel within ten kilometers of the Syrian border to avoid potential terrorist activity.
Why Consider Turkey
Turkey is one of the most visited destinations in the world and is quickly becoming one of the top options for immigration. Here are some of the top reasons to consider visiting Turkey:
- Low cost of living: Turkey offers one of the lowest costs of living in Europe, making it a popular destination among US and UK residents.
- Investment opportunities: Turkey offers some fantastic investment potential, with the Turkey Citizenship by Investment program providing a fast track to citizenship through investments like real estate, government bonds, capital investment, and investment fund shares.
- Fast track to citizenship: The Turkey Citizenship by Investment program allows investors to obtain a Turkish passport, granting Turkey citizenship within as little as four months.
- Accessible healthcare: Turkey has a highly accessible healthcare system, with public and private facilities available. Healthcare in Turkey is also considered to have some of the highest level of care in Europe.
- Thriving expat community: The expat community in Turkey is expanding rapidly, with expats moving to Turkey from across the globe.
- Fantastic education: Many concerned about safety in Turkey have children. Luckily, schools in Turkey are considered extremely safe, with safety procedures in place. The country also offers a very well-rounded education system, with schools and universities in Turkey being some of the top choices in Europe.
Read our Turkey Citizenship by Investment Guide
Is Turkey Safe for Americans?
Generally, Turkey is considered safe for Americans, whether you’re a tourist or considering moving to Turkey. High tourist areas, including Antalya, Istanbul, and Cappadocia are largely safe, still, it’s important for visitors to stay informed of potential risks and remain vigilant at all times.
If you’re thinking about immigrating or visiting Turkey, you should know about the Turkish visa for US citizens to ensure you are up to date on the latest requirements and visa types.
The US Department of State Travel Advisory classifies Turkey as a “Level Two: Exercise Increased Caution” due to an increased terrorism risk in some areas.
Is Turkey Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Turkey can be a safe and rewarding destination for solo female travelers, particularly in well-visited tourist areas. As with any destination, staying aware of your surroundings and taking standard safety precautions is important. Many women who have traveled solo in Turkey share positive experiences and feel safe during their visit.
Health safety in Turkey
Healthcare in Turkey is considered some of the best in Eastern Europe. Turkey’s healthcare system is well-developed, offering both public and private services accessible to residents and expats.
In general, health safety in Turkey is fantastic, with access to healthcare for all. However, it’s important to be aware of potential health risks. This may include waterborne and food illnesses, you should also not accept food or drink from any unknown source. Additionally, some vaccines are recommended, including Hepatitis A, Rabies, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus.
Natural Disasters in Turkey
Natural disasters in Turkey are quite prevalent, with the country located on active fault lines. Turkey is susceptible to wildfires, earthquakes, and floods. Popular tourist destinations are not known as high-risk areas, still, it remains important to keep up to date with the latest safety procedures.
Travel Safety in Turkey
There are a range of options when it comes to travelling around Turkey, including busses, trains, and taxis. All are considered safe, provided you make use of licensed service providers. It is essential to ensure that all taxi and transport services are legitimate before entering the vehicle.
Like any country, Turkey does have safety concerns. However, the chances of something dramatic or violent happening are very low. Still, here are some tips on how to stay safe in Turkey:Frequently Asked Questions About Is Turkey Safe
Is Turkey safe to travel in 2025?
Turkey is generally safe to visit in 2025, particularly in major tourist hubs like Istanbul and other popular cities. However, travelers should remain cautious due to the ongoing risk of terrorism and are advised to avoid regions near the Syrian border.
Is Turkey safe for solo female travelers?
Traveling to Turkey is safe if you use common sense and follow standard precautions, just as you would at home. Being mindful of local customs, Turkish law, and cultural norms can enhance your experience and help you connect more easily with the local community.
Is Istanbul safe to visit as a tourist?
Overall, Istanbul is considered a safe destination for travelers, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and modern conveniences. As in any large city, visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their safety.
Are there any travel advisories for Turkey?
Yes, travel advisories for Turkey are in place. The US Department of State currently advises travelers to exercise increased caution due to the risks of terrorist attacks and arbitrary detention. It specifically warns against visiting Şırnak and Hakkari provinces, as well as any area within 10 kilometers (6 miles) of the Syrian border.
Is Turkey safe for American tourists?
Turkey is safe for tourists, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. Violent crime is uncommon, though it’s still wise to stay alert, just as you would in any busy tourist destination.
What to avoid when travelling to Turkey?
- Wearing shoes inside mosques
- Revealing clothing in conservative areas
- Eating or drinking in public during Ramadan
- Taking unmarked or unofficial taxis
- Mocking the Turkish language or culture
Is Turkey safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
LGBTQ+ travelers should note that while Turkey is officially a secular country, conservative attitudes remain common, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, so same-sex couples are advised to be discreet, particularly outside major cities.
Is public transportation in Turkey safe for tourists?
Yes, public transport in cities like Istanbul and Ankara is safe, efficient, and affordable. Metro systems, buses, and trams are reliable. Just be alert to pickpockets in crowded areas and avoid unlicensed taxis.
Is it safe to walk around Istanbul at night?
Tourists are usually safe in popular areas like Sultanahmet, Fatih, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş. However, it’s still important to use common sense, avoid poorly lit streets at night and try not to walk alone in unfamiliar areas.
