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

4.1 /5

Based on 21 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.6 /5

Based on 35 experiences from local women

Ankara is currently ranked #14 safest place in Turkey for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.1 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Ankara?

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.

Is Ankara worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 21 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.1/5

Food

4.5/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Solo travel

Ankara is a beautiful city but i think its a little bit boring. Anıtkabir was a must seen place i think my experience was really emotional. Tunalı was a good place. I tried cocktails at pint and they were delicious

Posted: August 26, 2024Experienced: July, 2024

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Solo travel

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

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Family travel

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

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Is Ankara safe for women?

Safety index

3.6 /5

Based on 35 local experiences

Crime index

2.2 /5

Based on 35 local experiences

semra

I want you to know there is a pervert man in public transportation who touches himself and leans on his victim when bus is full and people have to be close to each other. It happened to me once. I was young and at first I couldn't understand what was happening. When I got it, I was terrified to do anything and just got off the bus. After that, I saw a couple of tweets about it so this man wasn't doing what he is doing for the first time. I can say that this man smells like horrible death, disgusting, the worst thing I've ever smelled. Also he was holding a polar sweater on his sexual organ. I think ankara is a very safe city and I feel very safe, especially in city centre. But please be careful those people unfortunately exist and some of them also live in ankara.

Posted: January 19, 2025

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Rabia

The capital city of Turkey is safer than many cities that I have visited in EU. I do not feel unsafe about the city but of course as a woman I am worried in general due to the policies of Turkey. Do not hesitate to contact if you have questions.

Posted: January 14, 2025

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Meet locals in Ankara

Beyzanur

About Me

This is Beyza ✨ I'm a doctor, working in a small city in Turkiye. I want to travel as much as possible to learn new languages and cultures. I would like to visit festivals, events and some interesting manifestations which can improve my knowledge about the country I am visiting. I play guitar, ukulele a bit of piano and like to listen to other people play something. Also I am interested in photography and every type of art. I like to describe myself as a very open-minded person, always willing to learn, help, teach, share and participate in adventure. I like riding bike, hiking and running. My favorite food... I like tasting new and traditional things (except too spicy). In my spare time I like to sing, read, go to theatre and cinema. I like to spend time in nature and I am not that much into big cities, I would like to visit hidden treasures of every country. My favorite season is spring because I like warm weather and spring flowers. People say that I am very energetic and usually they remember me by my smile. I do laugh a lot 😄 I would like to share my experiences and my place with good couchsufers who will come and visit Ankara.

Speaking

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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.