In my 50 years of experience traveling in Turkey, I have lived through times of difficult relations between the USA and Turkey. Some Turks would converse about the difficulties, ask questions, state their opinions, etc., but I never felt myself to be in physical danger. That was my experience.
However, there can be no guarantee of complete safety, anywhere in the world, for any individual traveler that nothing unpleasant will ever happen. Too many individual factors come into play.
Travelers—including Americans—are still going to Turkey and most find a warm welcome, low prices, and all the beauties and advantages that make Turkey one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world each year.
Resources
Read the TTP Safety Page to learn more about common safety concerns and make travel decisions you can be comfortable with.
Join our Facebook group where you can hear more from long-term residents of Turkey and newly returned travelers who share their advice and experiences.
October 2024 Travel Advice
The current travel advisories remain at the same level. There have been recent reports of protests regarding the war, but there is no increased risk in traveling to Turkey. Tourist destinations remain safe and open for travel. As a traveler, it is generally wise to avoid any large demonstrations in any country. Because protests may take place outside of the embassy of foreign countries, it can sometimes result in increased traffic in the area or (rarely) embassy closures. Enroll in your country's travel notification system for the most updated travel warnings and advice (see below).
Is Turkey safe for solo female travelers?
Turkey is in fact a safe destinations for solo female travelers (see our video at the top of this page). But it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, as you would when traveling in any foreign country. It is wise to follow general recommendations such as to dress modestly, avoid traveling alone at night, and to be aware of the local customs and cultural norms. Additionally, it is a good idea to inform friends or family of your travel itinerary and to stay in well-lit and populated areas. Also consider registering with your government's foreign travel system. As with any travel, it is also important to stay informed about any potential safety risks or travel advisories in the area.
Is driving in Turkey safe?
Are there any recommended tips for staying safe while walking around Turkey's cities and towns?
Here are 5 tips to stay safe when traveling
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas, and stay in well-lit and populated areas.
- Dress modestly and be aware of the local laws and customs as well as cultural norms. Try to blend in and keep a low profile. It's a good idea to keep your valuables, such as your passport and money, hidden and secure. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and use a money belt or hidden pouch to keep your valuables safe.
- Keep a photocopy of your passport and ID (and visa, if applicable) in case they are lost or stolen.
- Be vigilant in crowded areas (such as tourist sites and in the markets) and on public transportation, as pickpocketing can be a common problem.
- Write down the emergency number (112) and the information for the nearest embassy or consulate.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey with children?
Yes, many families enjoy traveling in Turkey with their children. There are many family-friendly destinations. You may find it more convenient to stay at a hotel or accommodation that caters to families. As with traveling in other countries, pay close attention in crowded areas and be sure to have an emergency plan in place for your family.
Travel Advisories
The US has revised the travel warning for Turkey by dropping it down to a 2 with only noteworthy warnings on the Eastern borders.
The terrorism incidents that caused travelers to avoid Turkey for several years are now in the past, with no large events being reported in the past 2 or 3 years. Tourism is in a period of recovery now and tourist numbers in 2022 nearly returned to their 2019 pre-pandemic figures.
I follow the diplomats' advice to avoid large gatherings, especially any that are political, etc. Please read these Travel Advisories:
UK Foreign Office
The United Kingdom's Foreign Office has the following information on its website regarding travel in Eastern Turkey:
"The Foreign and Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advise against all travel to areas within 10 km of the border with Syria.
The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to:
- Sirnak
- the province of Hakkari
Additionally, they advise tourists to always carry their passport and a copy of their visa with them while in Turkey. There's lots more. Here it is.
US Department of State
The US Department of State has a travel warning on its website which includes this Level 2 warning:
"Exercise Increased Caution" is the statement for the whole of Turkey with only the below significant warning mentioned:
Do not travel to:
- Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Syrian border due to terrorism.
Read the entire Travel Advisory.
The Embassy of the United States in Ankara website also issues useful advice.
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Here is the warning for Australian travelers, which is similar to those mentioned above.
Government Traveler Records
Many national governments maintain records of travelers visiting foreign destinations so they can alert travelers on the road to dangers as they may arise.
For example, if you apply to join the US Department of State's Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), US diplomats in Turkey will have a record of your personal, passport, contact and emergency information in an online database. If they feel it advisable to alert you to a dangerous situation, the database can make it possible.
If you are not a US citizen, your country's government may have a similar program, to which you may wish to apply. It can't hurt, and it may help, if only to allay anxiety.
Economic Situation & Foreign Relations
In recent years, the Turkish lira has suffered a substantial loss of value versus the major currencies of the US dollar, euro, pound sterling and Japanese yen. This makes a visit to Turkey less expensive for travelers who convert those currencies to liras, but it also has created economic difficulties for the Turkish economy. Its effects are felt most by ordinary Turks, and Turkish businesses.
Relations between Turkey and the USA can be strained at times with trade tariffs being levied by both countries, and disagreements over foreign, military, and banking relations. However, Turkey is a NATO ally which adds an extra level of security.
February 2023 Earthquake
On February 6, 2023 the southeastern region of Turkey suffered a magnitude 7.8 earthquake. Currently, access to the affected areas has been restricted to allow for recovery efforts.
Travel to Turkey remains open and there is no increased risk in visiting other regions of Turkey. Read government alerts linked below for the most updated information.
COVID-19 Situation
There are no restrictions or requirements for entering Turkey. Visitors no longer need to show proof of vaccination, quarantine, or wear masks. For travelers who still wish to take precautions, there are many options for visiting airy outdoor sites which allow you to maintain your distance.
—by Tom Brosnahan, updated by Kimberly Price
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