Is Istanbul Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Istanbul is generally safe for solo female travelers with some caution required. Although crime rate is relatively low, it is advisable to stay vigilant especially in crowded tourist areas due to occasional pickpocketing and scam incidents. It's also important to respect the local customs and dress modestly to prevent unwanted attention. Stick to well-lit areas at night and always inform reliable contacts about your whereabouts.

Safety rating

4 /5

Based on 102 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.4 /5

Based on 309 experiences from local women

Istanbul is currently ranked #17 safest place in Turkey for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Istanbul?

Safety at night:Moderate

Istanbul, a vibrant city, presents a mixed experience at night-time. While it's generally safe to walk around, especially in the bustling areas like Taksim Square and Sultanahmet, there may be less crowded, darker streets where you'd need to exercise more caution. The local police are available round the clock, there are plenty of people out till late and many stores and restaurants are open 24/7. However, as a solo female traveler, vigilance should always be maintained. It's best to avoid poorly lit areas and not to share personal information with unknown persons.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Istanbul, including buses, trams, ferries, and the metro, is generally safe and efficient. The staff is used to dealing with tourists and locals alike, and you should be able to navigate the city without much difficulty. It's recommended to always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid traveling late at night if possible. In spite of these precautions, instances of crime are relatively low, especially during daytime hours.

Street harassment:Moderate

In Istanbul, one could experience different levels of street harassment depending on the area and time of day. These could range from stares and catcalls to aggressive touting. While it is generally safe, incidences of harassment are more noticeable in tourist-heavy areas like Sultanahmet and Taksim Square. It's advised to dress modestly, avoid late-night outings in secluded areas, and ignore without engaging if harassed. Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts, as with any other destination.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Istanbul, much like any other bustling city, has instances of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and minor scams. These incidents tend to be more prevalent in areas crowded with tourists like Taksim Square and Sultanahmet. The city is generally safe but it is vital to stay alert, be aware of your belongings, and avoid flashing expensive items. Use common sense as well as caution when approached by strangers.

Is Istanbul worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 102 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3.8/5

Solo travel

Well the traffic is really bad espacially during the rush hours. Apart from the traffic the view i took the picture was fascinating. The food around town is really great and you can actually find different cuisines from all around turkey and they worth to try

Posted: March 17, 2025

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Family travel

I was very young when i visited Istanbul. I had family there, so i've been there once every year. It's a beautiful city that offers everything you desire. The locals are nice, but i would keep to myself as a solo female traveler and not go out when its dark or go into any creepy allys.

Posted: March 16, 2025

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Family travel

I really liked Istanbul. But it was a bit expensive to be honest. The food is great, I definitely recommend you to try it. I felt safe in the city, it is very touristic and full of warm people. I recommend you not to come without seeing Topkapi Palace.

Posted: March 14, 2025Experienced: January, 2025

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Family travel

I really liked Istanbul. But it was a bit expensive to be honest. The food is great, I definitely recommend you to try it. I felt safe in the city, it is very touristic and full of warm people.I recommend you not to come without seeing Topkapi Palace.

Posted: March 14, 2025Experienced: January, 2025

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Sude

Spain

Couple travel

We stayed in Kadikoy with my fiancée to visit art galleries(specifically Frida Kahlo), museums, Kız Kulesi, Galata Kulesi we stayed at a relative’s house and it was pretty fun we took a lor of pictures. The museum is a must see, also there are bazaars occasionally and it’s cheaper than the places near touristic attractions. People were so kind cats were everywhere. We felt safe yet we were still cautious in crowded places for pickpockets. Transportation was not as much of a disaster as I expected it to be. You don’t wait much and its not that crowded if you don’t take it after 7 pm.

Posted: March 5, 2025

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Elvira

Romania

Solo travel

Istanbul was amazing, I felt safe, but of course, as everywhere, you need to be careful. I recommend taking a Bosphorus trip, it’s quite cheap and amazing. I used public transport with an Istanbul card and explored lots of amazing places.

Posted: February 21, 2025

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Family travel

I felt the safest when we went on a boat trip and ate fish sandwiches near the embankment. Our budget was about $1,000, which was enough for two people, including shopping, food, and fun. We stayed at the Naif Bey Hotel, and it was a very good experience.

Posted: February 21, 2025

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Samanta

Lithuania

Group travel

Istanbul became my most favourite city… I miss it every day. I got obsessed with vibes, food and people. It was the most beautiful experience I ever had in my life. Also! I felt so safe there. I got lucky to meet very good people

Posted: February 21, 2025

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Solo travel

One of the best trips i have ever had. Ate delicious food. Met the best people Enjoyed the best views. 100/10 recommended. I also met a lot of girls from Istanbul, locals, they were all so sweet and kind

Posted: February 12, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Couple travel

Istanbul is a wonderful city. The only downside is that it's very expensive. There are so many historical places that it is not possible to see them all in a short time. You can eat wonderful desserts, drinks and meals. I recommend you come in spring.

Posted: February 8, 2025

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Is Istanbul safe for women?

Safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 309 local experiences

Crime index

2.9 /5

Based on 309 local experiences

I can go out every hours. Just need to pay attention what to do and how to do. For example until 12 am or in the morning 6 am you’ll not feel alone but between you might be careful. No public transportation so you can use taxis.

Posted: March 31, 2025

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You have to take care yourself.I usually use shoulder bag because i have to feel and see my bag. If my phone is in my pocket i touch it every second to feel it is there. I have my own peper spray and electric shock.Just in case.I was lucky i never been attacked by anyone.But some woman are not.Girls you have to walk like you are a man you have to confidently walk.A man said’ i want a kill somebody i saw a girl she look weak so i kill her’You seriously have to be careful .it’s a beautiful place but So many foreign people live here and sooo crowded you can’t find who did something

Posted: March 30, 2025

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