Is Ankara Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Ankara predominantly has an accepting and hospitable culture with locals generally courteous to tourists. Important to note are the country's modest dress codes especially in more conservative areas. At night, it's advisable to stay in well-lit and populated areas, and rely on registered taxis for transportation. The city is generally secure but the usual safety precautions need to be taken, such as staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is generally safe, but like any large city, it's wise to take precautions. During the day it is quite safe. After sundown, however, some areas can become less secure. While incidents are not common, it's best not to walk alone late at night, especially in less busy areas or smaller side streets. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid risky areas.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Ankara is generally safe and reliable. Metro, bus, and minibus networks are expansive and can get you virtually anywhere you need to go. However, as with any large city, it's advisable to be cautious about your belongings, as pick-pocketing can happen. Women travelers occasionally report cases of unwanted attention, especially during the city's busier hours. Stay vigilant, especially when traveling at night, and take taxis from reputable companies when possible. It might be useful to know some basic Turkish phrases for communication. As always, trust your instincts and if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it.

Street harassment:Moderate

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is generally a safe city. Yet, solo female travelers might occasionally encounter certain instances of street harassment such as unwelcome attention or remarks, especially in crowded places or at night. Learning a few key Turkish phrases and dressing modestly can often help. Remember, adopting a confident demeanor and keeping vigilant can go a long way in securing your personal safety.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Ankara does witness some petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in touristic and crowded places. However, it isn't widespread, and keeping an alert mind and taking basic precautions should help you avoid such situations. Most areas are safe to explore, but it's always good to stay vigilant, especially while using public transportation or visiting local markets.

Tap water:Moderate

While the tap water in Ankara is not dangerous and technically safe to drink, it frequently has an unusual taste due to the minerals and chlorination methods. Therefore, most locals and travelers choose to drink bottled water. It is advisable to get used to the local tap water gradually to avoid any potential stomach discomfort.

Is Ankara safe to travel?

4.1 /5

Based on 20 experiences

Is Ankara safe for women?

Safety rating

3.2 /5

Based on 11 experiences

Crime rates rating

1.8 /5

Based on 11 experiences

In some neighborhoods you are safe(ex. Bahçeli and Tunalı) but not in all( like keçiören and etlik) as a women. If you stay in the popularly youthful areas you would be good no matter what time it is but it is always a good thing to be aware and safe

Posted: April 9, 2024
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Rukiye

Rukiye

Ankara is generally considered a safe city. The central district of Çankaya is very safe both during the day and at night, but some older neighborhoods may not be safe at night. Public transportation is also safe. However, travelers should be cautious when dealing with taxi drivers. Additionally, when shopping, be aware that prices may vary.

Posted: April 7, 2024
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Is Ankara safe right now?

Before your visit to Ankara, it's essential to check travel advisories for Turkey, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States government advises to exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Note that some areas have an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 26, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Turkey. This advisory is due to the threat of terrorist attacks and the possibility of nationwide demonstrations. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 15, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution overall in Turkey, due to the threat of terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 12, 2024

Is Ankara worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 20 experiences

Solo travel experience

The city was amazing and beautiful and the people were friendly with tourists. I reserved a really cheap hotel because I had little budget, but despite the prices it was really great and I also met a new friend, that by my solo trip, I think that was amazing;)

Posted: April 19, 2024
Things to do: 4/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 3/5
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Family travel experience

Ankara has become an indispensable city for me because my cousin lives there, and I didn't have to pay any fees to stay. It's a city steeped in history, especially in Ulus. The Parliament and Anıtkabir are definitely must-see places. The locations where the Battle of Sakarya took place are also noteworthy. Before climbing Ankara Castle, there are many museums you can visit. There are many famous streets like Kızılay and Tunalı, all of which you can explore on foot. Walking through the streets is the most beautiful way to understand a city. :)

Posted: January 6, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Ankara

Meet local women in Ankara who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Nadia

Nadia

About Me

This is Nadya ikra özgün from the capital of the Republic of Turkiye (Ankara), but I am studying in Istanbul now. I am 19 years old and studying History (Preparation) at Ibn Haldun University and also Management and Information Computer Systems (1st grade) at Istanbul University. I work as a part time Project Assistant at Ibn Haldun University, I know how to write projects, and I have experiences about DiscoverEU, Erasmus Plus, Tubitak and so on. I can play the piano, violin and ney. I am interested in aviation, novels, mobile application software, English debate and MUN. I am acting at IHU Theatre Club. Skiing and parachuting are my favorite sports. I adore learning languages. I have C1 English, B1 Spanish and Arabic, A1 German and Russian. I am a volunteer tourist guide in Istanbul too, you all welcome to Turkiye :)

Speaking

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Göksu

Göksu

About Me

I’m a 25 year old girl who is travelling solo right now. I travelled last year also solo and with my boyfriend and with my other friends. I love meeting new people, thats one of my purposes too, not only see the world meet people and become a world citizen even more. I’m dentist but i quit my job to travel for a while, when i’m not travelling i am living in Ankara (capital of Turkey) and i also want to be host when i go back.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Ankara

Stay with local women in Ankara who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Göksu

Göksu

Ankara

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I’m a 25 year old girl who is travelling solo right now. I travelled last year also solo and with my boyfriend and with my other friends. I love meeting new people, thats one of my purposes too, not only see the world meet people and become a world citizen even more. I’m dentist but i quit my job to travel for a while, when i’m not travelling i am living in Ankara (capital of Turkey) and i also want to be host when i go back.

Speaking

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Nadia

Nadia

Ankara

Can host for:

3 days

About me

This is Nadya ikra özgün from the capital of the Republic of Turkiye (Ankara), but I am studying in Istanbul now. I am 19 years old and studying History (Preparation) at Ibn Haldun University and also Management and Information Computer Systems (1st grade) at Istanbul University. I work as a part time Project Assistant at Ibn Haldun University, I know how to write projects, and I have experiences about DiscoverEU, Erasmus Plus, Tubitak and so on. I can play the piano, violin and ney. I am interested in aviation, novels, mobile application software, English debate and MUN. I am acting at IHU Theatre Club. Skiing and parachuting are my favorite sports. I adore learning languages. I have C1 English, B1 Spanish and Arabic, A1 German and Russian. I am a volunteer tourist guide in Istanbul too, you all welcome to Turkiye :)

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Safety in Turkey