Solo Female Travel in Turkey

Straddling the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. Known for its unique fusion of Eastern and Western influences, the country boasts an intriguing blend of Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage, which manifest in its stunning architecture such as the renowned Hagia Sophia and the ethereal fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. From the vibrant bazaars and tantalizing gastronomy in Istanbul, the beautiful beaches of Antalya, to the ancient ruins of Ephesus symbolizing its powerful ancient civilizations, Turkey offers a rewarding travel experience for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and food lovers alike.

Travel rating

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Travel index

Safety:Safe

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.

Transport:Easy

Getting around Turkey is quite manageable as public transportation is efficient, widespread and rather inexpensive. Though not all places are well connected by public transportation, major cities and tourist destinations are easily accessible. Basic understanding of the language or navigation skills would be helpful to avoid any inconveniences or confusion. Small towns or rural areas might be a bit challenging for some due to less frequent transportation options. In general, traveling in Turkey is relatively comfortable and straightforward for the intrepid solo traveler.

Things to do:Fascinating

Turkey is an intriguing mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore world-famous landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque, and the ancient city of Troy, or soak up the atmosphere at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Unwind and rejuvenate in one of the country's traditional hammams or take a hike in the picturesque valleys of Cappadocia. Not to forget, the country is also renowned for its delectable cuisine and warm hospitality that make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Food:Excellent

Culinary exploration in Turkey is a delight for the senses. Traditional Turkish cuisine offers an incredible variety of flavors and textures. From appetizing mezze plates, succulent kebabs, to mouth-watering desserts like Baklava or Turkish delight, there is something to satisfy every palate. Furthermore, the country is known for its diversity in fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood, reflecting the various regional influences from the Mediterranean to the Middle East. Add a warm cup of Turkish tea or coffee and your gastronomic tour is complete. Regardless of dietary preferences or restrictions, one can find an array of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Most importantly, the hospitality and passion for food of the Turkish people always adds an extra flavor to the meal. It's a chance to immerse into the rich Turkish cultural heritage through their vibrant culinary scene.

Budget:Affordable

Turkey can be considered moderately budget-friendly for solo female travelers. Most sightseeing attractions, local cuisines, and transportation options are relatively affordable. Accommodation costs vary vastly depending on the area and the type of lodging you choose. However, you can find a comfortable place to stay even on a tight budget. Some local markets and stores may be more expensive, especially in touristic areas, so caution with spending is advisable.

Is Turkey worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 15 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

4.2/5

Couple travel experience

Went to 4 places - Cappadocia, Antalya, Istanbul and pammukale. Pammukale - the pools were disappointing :( large portion of it were dry!! But some areas still has pools of water that were beautiful Antalya - lovely to wander around Kaleici! Food was really good and much cheaper than in the main cities Cappadocia - stunning! Istanbul - just think of it as a typical city in another country?

Posted: March 30, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5
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Lily

Lily (24)

United States

Couple travel experience

- I was not traveling alone but I generally did feel safe. Turkish people are really friendly and kind, but they also don’t bother you if you don’t want to be bothered. - Istanbul was the most incredible city. I stayed in kadikoy on the Asian side - HIGHLY RECOMMEND! All the tourists stay in the European side and kadikoy was this perfect little local paradise of young hip people out at bars, cafes, restaurants, record shops, etc. You can just travel to the attractions in the European side when you want to see touristy things - VISIT THE PRINCES ISLANDS! This was my favorite part of my trip. I went to Buyukada during the summer. Idyllic paradise without cars. Only bikes and little summer cottages with men serving the most delicious gelato in their little vintage ice cream carts. Amazing food and nature and relaxed laid back atmosphere.

Posted: March 20, 2024Experienced: August, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

Istanbul and antalya are of my favourite places. Infact I went back to turkey last year with fam and visited these two places again. Felt very safe except got my wallet stolen out of my bag in asian side if istanbul

Posted: March 12, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5
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Nursem

Nursem (31)

Turkey

Family travel experience

Turkey is a safe country. I solo travel by myself as a women for a long time. I can only suggest you to not to stay outside at late hours when there is no one around. But it's same for most other countries these days.

Posted: February 9, 2024Experienced: November, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Couple travel experience

The holiday destinations in Turkey are really nice, but since I like to leave the comfort zone and go camping in different natural beauties than the places that everyone visits, I have also gone to rural areas, they are very nice places, I can say that I have never exceeded my budget, street food is very plentiful and cheap. people are also very warm and helpful

Posted: January 21, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I loved Turkey. I went there alone and had a great time. Turkey has become one of my favorite countries to visit. My advice is to wear more modest clothing to avoid too much attention, and to be cautious with vendors in the bazaars, as they can be very pushy and want to touch. But overall, people were charming.

Posted: December 25, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
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Group travel experience

I went to Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. I went with friends, getting around was very easy, public transportation was great, and I felt safe the whole time.

Posted: December 24, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I traveled alone to Turkey and I never felt unsafe there. Sometimes I felt uncomfortable and had difficulties in Istanbul to push away a few guys trying to attract me to their shop. I made a car journey along the whole turquoise coast and in some smaller towns people stared at me, but I never felt threatened, just out of place.

Posted: December 2, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
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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
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Solo travel experience

I love Turkey. I have been there several times and explored it by myself. I adore this place and always felt safe there. There were probably only one or two situations out of four times I was there, when men made me feel a bit uncomfortable (both situations happened in Istanbul).

Posted: July 27, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Turkey

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

Gemma

About Me

Hello, My name is Gemma and I'm interested in books, events & social, live music, shopping, sightseeing and solo travel

Speaking

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Nuran

Nuran

About Me

Hello my name is Nuran I'm 22 years ago I'm a student Turizm management student I love to travel .my favorite thing is to meet new people. I'm going to start a world tourI'm so excited to meet you already.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Turkey

Stay with local women in Turkey 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.
Nuran

Nuran

Turkey

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello my name is Nuran I'm 22 years ago I'm a student Turizm management student I love to travel .my favorite thing is to meet new people. I'm going to start a world tourI'm so excited to meet you already.

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Helin

Helin

Turkey

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I'm Erasmus student and I study English Language and Literature department. I'm in Poland now.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Turkey

Connect with upcoming visitors to Turkey who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Elif

Elif

About Me

I am start to travel and I want to all world cause of choose best living palace for my future . I am temporary in Türkiye, I will move japan. I am building my career as a remotely

Speaking

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Elif

Elif

About Me

I am start to travel and I want to all world cause of choose best living palace for my future . I am temporary in Türkiye, I will move japan. I am building my career as a remotely

Speaking

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Explore Turkey