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 index

4.1 /5

Based on 8 experiences

3.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety overview

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: 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: 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: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.

Tap water:Moderate

While tap water in Turkey is chlorinated and considered safe for locals, it may still upset the stomachs of visitors not used to the local water quality. Some areas have particularly hard water which may upset your stomach. Bottled water is readily available and highly recommended for drinking.

Get the Travel Ladies app

Meet new people, find travel buddies, share experiences, discuss travel plans and stay with local women through couch surfing
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 8 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.3/5

Safety

4.1/5

Food

4.7/5

Budget-friendly

4.5/5

Solo travel experience

I traveled to Turkey solo and never felt unsafe. I did feel uncomfortable at times and struggled in Istanbul to shrug some guys off trying to get me to come to their shop. I did a road trip along the entire turquoise coast and in some smaller towns I was stared at a bit, but I was never felt unsafe just uncomfortable.

Posted: December 2, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I fell in love with turkey in 2022. In 2023 I decided to spend more days in this country. It was wonderful trip full of joy and adventures. There are so many interesting places full of hospitable people I'll return soon

Posted: October 12, 2023Experienced: July, 2023
Things to do: 4/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 19
mode_comment 1

Solo travel experience

I love Turkey. I’ve been a couple of times and I’ve backpacked it solo. I loved it and always felt safe. There were probably only one or two instances out of four times I’ve been where men were making me a bit uncomfortable (these were both in Istanbul).

Posted: July 27, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I just spent a few months in Turkey and never experienced harassment, just some obvious stares from mainly older men and in the big cities (Izmir, Istanbul). I spent most of my time in Kas and Cappadocia and never felt uncomfortable in either of those places and felt safe even walking at night time. I recommend checking out Kas - it has the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever been to.

Posted: July 26, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Family travel experience

My sister and I went to Istanbul and Cappadocia. In Istanbul, we were constantly being talked to by men trying to sell us something. We would try to get even one block in certain areas without some man trying to coax us into his store or restaurant and putting his arm around us and flirting. Very uncomfortable. Cappadocia was fine though.

Posted: July 24, 2023
Things to do: 4/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 3/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Family travel experience

I loved Türkiye. I've been there twice and it was incredible both times. The beaches and coastlines are amazing and so so beautiful. I really loved Kaş, Kemer, Bodrum, Kuşadasi, and Ölüdeniz. Istanbul is also lovely and a wonderful experience.

Posted: July 23, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I’ve been to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Kas. All were great. Pamukkale is a cool experience, and I also really enjoyed Bodrum. I spent 2 days in Konya as well, which is a much more traditional, less touristy city. Super friendly people and a huge outdoor market.

Posted: July 9, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I did 2 weeks in Turkey (Istanbul, Cappadocia region, and Antalya) and felt safe everywhere even walking alone at night. I did dress conservatively (long pants and t-shirts) in Istanbul and Cappadocia but Antalya had a much more beachy and lots of people wore shorts and crop tops.

Posted: June 22, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Local discussions

Solo travelShould I go on a solo trip to Istanbul as a female traveler?

I'm considering a solo trip to Istanbul. I've always desperately wanted to go and it isn't too expensive but none of my friends are interested. However, I've been advised by multiple people not to go to Turkey on my own. I was under the impression that (so long as I dressed ok etc) Turkey was very safe for solo female travelers. Any advice?

Posted: May 13, 2023
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 5

Solo travelWhich month is best to visit Turkey and which places and cities can I cover in 7-8 days?

I am looking forward for a solo trip to Turkey for max 10 days. Can someone recommend which month is Turkey best to visit, places and cities I can cover in 7-8 days.

Posted: December 20, 2022
favorite_border 1
mode_comment 1

BackpackingHave experience with Turkey and Georgia? Any suggestions for itinerary with 30 nights?

Does anyone have experience with Turkey and Georgia? Planning to visit both in June. I have 30 nights to spend. Any suggestions for itinerary?

Posted: November 29, 2022
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 2

Solo travelWhat are your recommendations for beautiful places to visit in Turkey and your experiences travelling alone as a woman?

I’m about to travel solo to Turkey. Recommendations on beautiful places to visit are welcomed. I’d also love to hear your experiences travelling alone as a woman. I’m planning to stay in hostels and will be there mid/end November. I’m looking forward to reading your suggestions & advice ♥️

Posted: October 28, 2022
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 3

TravelHave you done a hot air balloon and flying dress photo shoot in Turkey? Please share your experience.

Thinking about Turkey. Where to stay where to go what to do, I really want to do hot air ballon and flying dress photo shoot, have you done it? Please share your experience

Posted: October 25, 2022
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 3

Safety in Turkey