Is Turkey Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Traveling solo as a woman in Turkey is generally safe. Large cities like Istanbul and Ankara, as well as tourist hubs such as Antalya and Cappadocia, are typically welcoming to foreign visitors. However, like many places, it demands a certain level of consciousness and alertness, especially at night. Always be aware of your surroundings, maintain personal boundaries, and avoid secluded areas. It can be helpful to learn a few key phrases in Turkish, but most people in Turkey's tourist areas speak English.

Safety rating

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How safe is Turkey?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Turkey's safety can vary greatly depending upon the location and specific circumstances. Major cities like Istanbul and Ankara maintain a lively nightlife and are generally safe, yet usual precautions should be taken, as in any major city. Walking alone at night is generally safe in busy neighborhoods and tourist zones, but it's always advisable to stay within well-lit areas and avoid less populated locales. Small towns and rural areas may pose increased risks due to lower police presence and less infrastructure. As always, it's crucial to stay alert, informed, confident, and aware of your surroundings.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

In Turkey, the public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, and the metro, is generally quite secure and reliable. Even during night hours, it's possible to use these services without encountering major safety concerns. However, like any travel scenario, it is advised to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, as pickpocketing can sometimes occur. Other than that, many female solo travelers have found public transportation in Turkey to be a viable and mostly safe option for moving around.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

As a solo female traveler in Turkey, it is not uncommon to encounter some level of street harassment. This could range from catcalling to persistent vendors and unsolicited advances. That said, it usually doesn't escalate beyond verbal exchanges and tends to largely occur in crowded, tourist-heavy areas. The majority of Turkish locals are friendly, respectful, and incredibly hospitable. However, understanding that street harassment is circumstantial and can vary based on the specific region, time, and even your outfit is beneficial. Practicing caution and choosing to ignore or address such behavior assertively can be of great help in these scenarios.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

In Turkey, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are somewhat common, particularly in crowded areas such as markets and public transportation. Be particularly cautious in tourist-heavy areas, as these tend to be the spots where such activities are most prevalent. However, if vigilant, it is generally easy to avoid such incidents.

Is Turkey worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 234 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.2/5

Food

4.5/5

Budget-friendly

3.8/5
Tuba

Tuba

United Arab Emirates

Istanbul, Solo travel

Istanbul is a vibrant city to visit and experience, its atmosphere and spirit embrace you the moment you arrive. It’s incredibly crowded, and summer isn’t the ideal season due to the heat, but you can still enjoy the city by exploring in the early mornings and evenings. The food is delicious, though noticeably more expensive compared to previous years. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid unsafe areas, especially late at night.

Posted: July 29, 2025
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Jocelyn

Jocelyn

Netherlands

Turkey, Group travel

It was an average girls trip with me and one of my good friends. We went for a week, hung out at the hotel pool mostly. We felt fairly safe because we know how to protect ourselves. Overall just a nice little short getaway.

Posted: July 29, 2025
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Naz

Naz

Turkey

Göynük, Family travel

It was a really relaxing amazing place, there are all kinds of food and refreshing drinks. It was pretty safe everyone who works there very professional and caring about their jobs. I did Zipline there it was really nice althoug i might recommend not to take the go pro cuz it was kind of expensice and i regret having it cuz i forget to focus on the zipline. I gave a little too much attention to the camera I enjoyed it tho but I could have enjoyed it more. And there is a rafting and boating space its a bit far from the beginning of the place but they take you with safari cars there. I had so much fun it was a great day. and meet new people

Posted: July 27, 2025Experienced: May, 2025
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Istanbul, Solo travel

Istanbul had a unique atmosphere with its mix of history and modern life. Transportation was easy, the food was amazing, and the sea looked stunning. It’s a vibrant city full of beauty and charm.

Posted: July 25, 2025
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Turkey, Couple travel

We were hitchhiking a lot and the people on the countryside were incredibly friendly We also spent a few days in Antalya and that was rather uncomfortable. People were scamming tourists (also us), everything was very expensive and rather unfriendly Overall, I'd go again but only stick to the country side or be very aware of pickpocketers and scammers

Posted: July 17, 2025
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Sıla

Sıla

Turkey

Istanbul, Solo travel

Core memory and my first solo travel where i spent the first night at the train, the next three at my tent and last two at a hostel. Overall a week traveling alone in Istanbul although i'm Turkish was a thrilling experience. I really loved my people during this trip and i felt hopeful. Even though i walked alone to the campsite it was so much fun but i do not recommend you do the same thing😭🤝

Posted: July 14, 2025
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Is Turkey safe for women?

Safety index

3.7 /5

Based on 834 local experiences

Crime index

2.7 /5

Based on 834 local experiences

Istanbul

Of course it depends on which neighbourhood you live in, but I feel pretty safe in Istanbul. Especially in the neighbourhood I live in it feels very much confident. And even in less improved neighbourhoods I can say it’s not that bad.

Posted: August 1, 2025
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Laçin

Laçin

Ankara

If you are in city center, you might feel safer but you still see some people stare at you. You need to choose the place you stay from city center because of that. Men try to bother you and i just ignore i, if you carry a pepper spray with you it would make you feel safer.

Posted: August 1, 2025
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Safety in Turkey