What are the warnings about traveling to Turkey?

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in 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.

Is it safe to go to Turkey right now?

When it comes to Turkey, the FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism.

What travel threat level is Turkey?

Turkey - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.

Which foreign office warns UK tourists in Turkey about using unofficial taxis?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office urges travellers to find a registered taxi, note the details and ensure the fare is metered. Another option is to use app-based taxis. The FDCO states: “Accepting lifts from drivers of unofficial taxis is highly risky.

Is now a bad time to travel to Turkey?

No, there is no bad time to visit Turkey. Each season offers unique experiences and opportunities to explore the country's diverse attractions.

Is it still safe to travel to Turkey? Simon Calder’s advice amid Israel–Iran tensions

Where not to go in Turkey?

Turkey-Syria border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism.

Why are there demonstrations in Turkey?

The protests are perceived as a response to the perceived injustice of incarcerating a democratically elected mayor who has been characterized as a "man of the people," reflecting broader concerns about democratic backsliding in Turkey.

Is it safe to book a holiday to Turkey from the UK?

Terrorism in Turkey

See Regional risks for details about the areas in south-east Turkey where FCDO advises against travel. There have been several attacks involving knives, firearms and explosives. Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as: public buildings.

Should British tourists in Turkey be cautious about transport and fake currency?

Summary of Safety Tips for Turkey Visitors

Avoid accepting change in fifty or one hundred US dollar bills; beware of counterfeit currency. Only buy alcohol from licensed stores, bars, and hotels; avoid homemade or suspicious bottles. Always carry valid photo ID such as passport or residence permit.

Which countries does the foreign office advise against travelling to?

Is Turkey on a red list?

The government took decisive action to place Turkey on the “Red List” of high-risk countries on 12 May.

What is the danger zone for a Turkey?

Never thaw your turkey by leaving it out on the counter.

When a turkey stays out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, its temperature becomes unsafe even if the center is still frozen. Germs can grow rapidly in the "danger zone" between 40°F and 140°F. Get more information about thawing turkeys from USDA.

Is Turkey high risk right now?

Exercise a high degree of caution

Pay close attention to your personal security and the current health situation. Monitor the media for new and existing risks. Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the threat of terrorism.

What medications are not allowed in Turkey?

Medications containing certain narcotics or psychotropics are strictly restricted in Turkey. Controlled substances include painkillers, anxiety medication, and sleeping pills like tramadol and acetaminophen. Even with a proper prescription, these medications need extra authorisation from the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Do you still have to pay $10 to enter Turkey?

I remember the days of a crisp £10 note in your passport. However as a British passport holder you no longer have to pay on entry.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now as a woman?

Tourist Crime Statistics

Official data is reassuring for us female travelers. According to statistics, Turkey presents a low risk for violent crime against tourists. The country's overall crime rate stands at 40.95, which is lower than France's (51.99), for example.

Where in Turkey are the riots?

Demonstrations were held in many cities in Turkey. According to the Human Rights Foundation of Turkey around 640,000 people had participated in the demonstrations as of 5 June. Protests took place in 78 of Turkey's 81 provinces. The biggest protests have been in Istanbul, with reports of more than 100,000 protesters.

What is the war in Turkey 2025?

Turkish offensive into northeastern Syria (2024–2025) The Turkish offensive into northeastern Syria (2024–2025) refers to a series of military operations launched by Turkey and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) amid the fall of the Assad regime.

Why are people being advised not to go to Turkey?

The Foreign Office strongly advises against any travel within 10km of the Syrian border due to ongoing conflict and 'a heightened risk of terrorism' there. The guidance explains that the majority of terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, as well as Ankara and Istanbul.

Is Turkey safe for UK visitors?

While most visits to Turkey are trouble-free, safety conditions can vary widely by region. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides regularly updated travel guidance, highlighting areas of heightened risk.

When to avoid visiting Turkey?

From November to March (winter season with rain/snow)

Slightly worse than Turkey's cool November and March, December to February is considered the worst time for you to travel to Turkey because of the chilly weather. However, winter is the best time to experience a traditional Turkish bath, also called a hammam.

What is the safest part of Turkey to go on holiday?

Consequently, the most visited and safest places in Turkey are those locations with the largest number of tourists. Famous destinations such as Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus and Kusadasi are destinations that will surprise you with their beauty and best of all, you will feel very safe in them.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey with Israel's war?

Current Safety Situation

As of now, Türkiye has not been directly impacted by the conflict in Israel. However, the safety of your visit may vary depending on your destination within the country. Generally, most tourist destinations in Türkiye are considered safe and are welcoming to travelers.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now in 2025?

August 2025 Update from Istanbul

Despite continued regional tensions involving Israel and Iran, we want to reassure all travelers that Istanbul and Turkey remain completely safe to visit. Daily life in Istanbul is vibrant and uninterrupted, and all major tourist areas across the country are calm, secure, and welcoming.

What level of warning is Turkey?

Turkey - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.