What are the high risk areas of Turkey?

High-risk areas in Turkey primarily include the10km zone along the Syrian border, the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces due to terrorism, and active earthquake fault lines, specifically around Istanbul and in the southeast. Increased caution is advised nationwide due to potential terrorism, particularly in major cities like Ankara and Istanbul.

Where to avoid in Turkey?

Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak in south-east Türkiye due to the unpredictable security situation and the threat of terrorism and kidnapping (level 3 of 4).

What are the current travel warnings for Turkey?

Turkey - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay at hotels with identifiable security measures.
• Monitor local media and be prepared to adjust your plans quickly.

Is Turkey high risk right now?

There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks. Possible targets include tourist areas, transport networks, shopping malls, hotels, places of worship and diplomatic premises. Be alert to potential threats, especially in locations frequented by foreigners.

Which part of Turkey is most prone to earthquakes?

While it remains impossible to predict when and where a major earthquake will strike, the geological reality is that Istanbul, in particular, remains vulnerable. The last major rupture along the central Marmara Sea segment of the North Anatolian Fault most likely occurred in 1766.

Turkey Is Literally Tearing Apart - and It’s Visible from Space

How likely is it for Turkey to have another earthquake?

The Pazarcık and Amanos segments in the west have recurrence intervals of 237–772 years and 414–917 years, respectively, for M 7.0–7.4 earthquakes.

What is the safest city in Turkey for earthquakes?

Alanya: One of the Safest Cities in Turkey When It Comes to Earthquakes. One major advantage of Alanya is that, unlike many other earthquake-prone areas in Turkey, it is not located on any of the main active fault lines.

Are British tourists safe in Turkey?

Travel to Turkey from the UK is generally safe as long you are aware of the security precautions you'll need to take. We lay them out below. Keep an eye on your personal belongings. Particularly in busy areas of Istanbul frequented by lots of tourists, there is a risk of robbery and street pickpocketing.

Where not to travel at the moment?

It's not safe to travel to certain high-risk areas like Haiti, Russia, Belarus, and Afghanistan (avoid all travel), while many other countries like Mexico, Turkey, Thailand, and parts of Israel and Palestine have specific regions with "do not travel" advisories due to ongoing conflict, terrorism, or instability. Always check your government's travel advisories (like the U.S. State Dept or UK FCDO) for the latest updates, as risks can change rapidly.

Can females wear shorts in Turkey?

At Turkish beaches, anything goes. Most women wear clothing as they would in Europe or their home countries. Shorts, T-shirts, and flip-flops or bare feet are perfectly fine.

Which countries are level 4 travel advisory?

As of early 2026, U.S. Department of State Level 4 Travel Advisory countries (meaning "Do Not Travel") include nations like Afghanistan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, Russia, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, Yemen, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, North Korea, Central African Republic, Burma (Myanmar), and Lebanon, due to extreme risks like conflict, terrorism, crime, or political instability, with the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) offering the official, most current list.
 

What is the number one crime in Turkey?

According to 2020 data, Dr. Berat Dağ noted that the most frequently committed crimes in Türkiye were intentional injury (40,445 convicts) and theft (39,279 convicts). He added: “The 2020 data reveal that nearly 8,500 young people aged 15–17 entered prison due to theft, assault, and drug-related crimes.”

Do and don'ts in Turkey?

When visiting Turkey, do dress modestly (especially at religious sites), accept tea/hospitality, try local food (like baklava), bargain respectfully in markets, use right hand for eating/passing items, and remove shoes at homes/mosques; don't wear shorts in mosques, speak loudly in places of worship, show excessive public affection, drink alcohol in public, insult the Turkish flag/nation, or use your left hand for dining/passing. Be aware of surroundings, especially regarding scams and sensitive topics like politics or religion.
 

Why is Turkey a high risk country?

Despite these challenges, Turkey's investment climate remains attractive due to its strategic location, large domestic market, and favorable demographics, although risks persist from structural weaknesses, high current account deficits, and geopolitical tensions.

What not to do in Turkey?

Crossing your legs or showing the bottoms of your feet is considered insulting in Turkey. Don't make any derogatory comments about the Turkish Flag, or Kemal Atatürk, the Turkish Republic's Founding Father or in fact anything else about Turkey. It is obviously impolite and disrespectful!

Why are foreigners leaving Turkey?

The current economic crisis and deteriorating quality of life has only accelarated the outflow of young, secular, urban people, who see no future for themselves in their homeland. According to the OECD Better Life Index, today Turkey ranks 37th among 40 OECD countries (OECD 2021).

Should I cancel my holiday to Turkey?

Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. See Regional risks for details about the areas in south-east Turkey where FCDO advises against travel.

Do female tourists have to cover up in Turkey?

Dress more formally

You'll show respect and get more respect in return. Female travellers do not need to cover their hair unless visiting a mosque.

Can I drink tap water in Turkey?

It's ok to use the water to cook or to clean your teeth, but it's safer to buy bottled water for drinking. The ice cubes you get in your drinks are ok, too, because they're made out of mineral water. The tap water in big cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir comes from dams and is chlorinated to kill off germs.

Which is the safest resort in Turkey?

Turkish Hospitality

As one of Turkey's most known seaside resorts, Antalya is listed among the safest cities in the country. More precisely, Antalya demonstrates low percentages regarding crime which allows a safe and calm atmosphere. Solo travellers will also enjoy the sense of safety that the city has.

What is the nicest city in Turkey?

1. Istanbul – Vibrant Asian/European Metropolis. Istanbul needs no introduction, as it's absolutely the best place to visit in Turkey. Must-see attractions in Istanbul include the iconic Sultan Ahmet area with Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.