Istanbul is at least as safe as any big city in Western Europe. Petty crime sometimes happens in crowded areas (you should keep wallets and passports safely out of view) but local people are helpful and protective of you if there ever is a problem.
There are no “no go” areas in Istanbul and poor parts of the city are even safer than the other parts, as opposed to the trend in Western Europe. Turkish people are mostly very kind and community spirited. Also you’ll not see the gangs of teenagers hanging around and disturbing/threatening people.
Still it makes sense to be a bit more cautious than normal in a new city but overall Istanbul is much safer than Paris, London and most others.
special advise for women travelling alone in Istanbul:
The above applies to women travelling alone as well. In touristic areas (such as Sultanahmet) you might see that men might show too much interest in you. Please be aware that Sultanahmet is seen as a women hunting arena for some Turkish men. You shouldn’t feel threatened. If you don’t smile at these men and don’t look into their eyes, you should be fine. If it is still not fine you can ask for some help from Turkish women who know how to deal with these men. Outside of Sultanahmet area, things will be much better.
Istanbul tourism police telephone number, email address and postal address information:
phone: +90 212 638 81 27
email: turizmpolisi@iem.gov.tr
address: Yerebatan Cad. No:6 – Istanbul
Recent Comments