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

3.9 /5

Based on 108 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.4 /5

Based on 341 experiences from local women

Istanbul is currently ranked #17 safest place in Turkey for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.9 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 108 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

3.9/5

Food

4.5/5

Budget-friendly

3.7/5

Reem

Jordan

Group travel

I stayed near taksim square. It was a nice and clean hotel. The food was okay but mostly the kabab and bbq is delicious. I recommend the historical places and museums. Some areas didn't feel safe to walk around especially after dark.

Posted: June 12, 2025Experienced: September, 2019

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Esranur

Turkey

Solo travel

I didn't feel safe, people are so strange and complicated. Everywhere is very crowded and dangerous. It is not a place to live, it is a very beautiful city but even getting around is very difficult.

Posted: June 10, 2025Experienced: May, 2025

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Merve

Belgium

Solo travel

I went to İstanbul and had a budget of 300-400 euros. I stayed at a hostel called Julliet's room and kitchen which is 20 min walking from Kadıköy station or port. I chosed this hostel because it has a room for ladies only. Over all, it was safe for me since I was solo traveling.

Posted: May 29, 2025Experienced: July, 2024

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Couple travel

Being an experienced traveler, I avoided Istanbul for a long time because of the image of being too "touristy." I regret that decision a million times because after being it myself, I fell in love. I am obsessed with how it looks, with the people, and the overall atmosphere. It's a highly international place, where you can always find someone to go out with. I came to Istanbul 3 times in total - in May, in June, and in January. I can say for sure that it is not a nice winter destination - or maybe I was unlucky with the weather - but in May in June it is heavenly nice :) My favorite experiences were: - Turkish breakfast at some terrace with seaview (around 15 euro pp) - famous San Sebastian cheesecake near Galata Tower - Turkish bath (25 euro pp) Some experience that I wouldn't do again - dinner Bosphorus cruise. Overpriced, bad food and diluted drinks, interior and show with 90's vibe (not in a good way)

Posted: May 11, 2025Experienced: May, 2023

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Family travel

It's a very good place to visit , I recommend it . I don't regret going, and I would like to go again. It's not very expensive if you have euro The food is excellent and you can eat wherever. People there are very nice

Posted: April 14, 2025Experienced: March, 2025

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Group travel

Istanbul is a beautiful city. There is so much to do and you will never be bored. Safety wise I would say it’s mostly safe and I’ve never felt unsafe alone at night. But there are men who can cat-call you or pressure you to come into the night clubs.

Posted: April 11, 2025

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Is Istanbul safe for women?

Safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 341 local experiences

Crime index

2.9 /5

Based on 341 local experiences

elif

Istanbul is a big city, there’s places u should stay away like Esenler, Bağcılar, Ümraniye and Fatih. I can’t say there’s always dangerous but after night it’s totally more dangerous to visit. Of course it can depends but I wouldn’t travel there if I was solo.

Posted: June 17, 2025

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Depending on the neighbourhood you are in, it can be the safest or the most dangerous place. Zones around the central İstanbul tend to be safe. Avoid Tarlabaşı and Kuştepe (I don’t think you’d have those in your list as a tourist, but still). Some men can ask you to go climb Galata tower together in Taksim. Disgusting. I’d advise avoiding side streets after dark and traveling low.

Posted: June 14, 2025

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