Is Turkey Safe to Travel in 2024? Is Istanbul Safe? 

I am Turkish who lived in Canada for six years and I can’t tell you that Canada was always like this towards Turkiye. Turkiye is very safe place. I would say even safer than most part of Europe and US. Bad people exist everywhere so of course, you shouldn’t be trusting everyone. however, it’s very well protected country I assure you.

Have you come back safely? I am a Canadian. I want to travel to Turkey too.

Hello, Sorry to hear you are feeling confused. As with most countries these days, incidents of violence can occur. As an American, I personally feel much safer in Turkey than I do in the US or even when traveling in major European cities. Random attacks are relatively rare in Turkey and typically don't occur in tourist destinations. The air strikes are also very far from any of the places you might go as a tourist. The best thing to do is to stay alert and follow safety guidance issued by the government. We have more info on our safety page that may help you make the best choice for yourself: turkeytravelplanner.com/details/Safety/should_i_go.html

@@turkeytravelplanning thanks, this was helpful. Thanks again for detailed reply.

Yes, I still feel Turkey is generally a safe place to visit. You can read more on our site: turkeytravelplanner.com/details/Safety/should_i_go.html

Hello, there has been no change to the safety level in Turkey due to the conflict there.

Yes, the travel advisories tend to be more conservative but I think you shouldn't worry about the airport. Both IST and SAW are some of the busiest airports in the world and many passengers pass through the airports each day without incident.

Did you already fly there, how was your experience? Our gov website scared me a lot too.

@@emilyann1122 Hey, yes I've flown through both airports many times and have never had any problems. They are both very safe, clean, and some of my favorite airports to fly through, especially IST. There's really nothing to worry about. As a woman I have never encountered anything that made me feel unsafe while traveling through these airports, and have traveled throughout a lot of Turkey, as well as have lived here for the past 5 years.

Hello, yes, they have said that for many years. I think similar to California and waiting for "the big one". My advice would be to stay in a hotel or newer apartment that was built within the last ~20 years. The newer buildings have updated building codes for greater safety against earthquakes.

Yes, I think so. I drove as a solo female traveler and didn’t have any issue. I got a SIM card so I could use the GPS on my phone. I wouldn’t drive in Istanbul because it’s too crowded and parking issues etc. But if you’re traveling to the coastal regions, a car is the best way to go. If you’re going long distances, it might make more sense to fly and then rent a car.

@@turkeytravelplanning I am thinking of renting a car at Antalya to drive around. What is the best way to book a reputable car rental at reasonable price? Do you have any suggestions?

I personally choose larger agencies that are internationally known as they're more reliable and the cars tend to be in better shape, more support if something goes wrong, etc. Depending on the time of year you're going, you could book at the airport itself. Or, you could book online beforehand. I would go directly with the agency from their website (i.e. Enterprise, Hertz, Budget).

good point

I've never experienced hostility or felt uncomfortable from shopping in the bazaar. I think it's best to avoid shops where salespeople are being aggressive/pushy, but I wouldn't say it's dangerous.