Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and cultural capital, straddling two continents across the Bosphorus Strait. Once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, it's a city of stunning mosques, grand bazaars, and vibrant neighborhoods blending East and West.
Istanbul is a generally safe destination for tourists, welcoming millions of international visitors annually. The city has professional tourist police in major areas. The main concerns are petty crime (pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas), tourist scams targeting visitors near major monuments, and occasional political protests. Exercise the same common-sense precautions you would in any major European city and you will have a safe and enjoyable visit.
Current safety advisory
Generally Safe - Exercise Normal Precautions
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies (digital and physical) of your passport, visa, and travel insurance stored separately from originals
Use licensed taxis from official stands or the BiTaksi/Uber apps; insist the meter is running
Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas: Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Istiklal Street, and Taksim Square
Avoid political demonstrations — they can escalate unexpectedly
Do not accept unsolicited invitations for tea or drinks from strangers near tourist sites
Watch your belongings carefully on the crowded T1 tram through Sultanahmet
Women should stick to well-lit, populated streets when out alone late at night in less-touristed areas
Store emergency numbers in your phone: police 155, ambulance 112
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before arrival, including medical evacuation
Be cautious when photographing military installations or government buildings — this can be illegal
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Tea/Drinks Invitation
A friendly local invites you for tea, then takes you to a bar where you are presented with an inflated bill. When you cannot pay, intimidation follows.
How to avoid: Decline unsolicited invitations near tourist sites. If you want company, suggest a public cafe and agree on prices first.
Shoe Shine Drop
A shoe shiner 'accidentally' drops his brush near you. When you pick it up, he offers a free shine as thanks, then demands a large sum when finished.
How to avoid: Simply keep walking and return the brush. Do not accept any 'free' services.
Carpet Shop Hustle
Touts near Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque offer to guide you to a 'special market' or their cousin's carpet shop, where you face high-pressure sales tactics.
How to avoid: Politely decline all offers of guidance. Enter shops only when you intend to browse on your own.
Fake Police
Individuals posing as plainclothes police ask to inspect your wallet or passport for 'counterfeit money' checks.
How to avoid: Never hand over your wallet or passport to alleged plainclothes police. Request to go to the nearest official police station.
Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed taxis or drivers who refuse to use the meter charge tourists far above standard rates. Common from airports.
How to avoid: Use official yellow taxis with meters running, or use BiTaksi/Uber with upfront pricing.
Currency Confusion
Merchants or taxi drivers claim you gave them a small denomination when you gave a larger one, or give change in old worthless currency notes.
How to avoid: Count your change carefully and familiarize yourself with Turkish Lira denominations.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Drink bottled water; tap water is not recommended for drinking
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- Keep hand sanitizer with you when visiting markets and crowded attractions
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- Standard vaccinations recommended: Hepatitis A and Typhoid — check with your doctor before travel
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- Pharmacies (eczane) are widespread and pharmacists can advise on common ailments; they are usually knowledgeable
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- Travel health insurance with medical repatriation cover is strongly recommended
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- American Hospital Istanbul (Amerikan Hastanesi, Nisantasi) is the recommended hospital for English-speaking tourists: +90 212 444 3777
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- Istanbul sits on the North Anatolian Fault — be aware of earthquake procedures at your hotel
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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