What not to do in Istanbul?

To ensure a smooth trip to Istanbul, avoid relying on taxis—especially in traffic—and instead use the efficient metro, tram, or ferries. Do not buy souvenirs, Turkish delight, or spices in the Grand Bazaar; instead, find better prices and quality in local shops in areas like Kadıköy or Karaköy. Avoid dining in the immediate Sultanahmet area to avoid high prices.

Do and don'ts Istanbul?

DOs

• Respect Local Customs: Do take the time to learn and respect Turkish customs and traditions. ...
• Dress Modestly in Certain Areas. ...
• Haggle in the Bazaars. ...
• Try Turkish Cuisine: ...
• Use Common Phrases in Turkish. ...
• Don't Disrespect Religious Sites. ...
• Don't Engage in Public Displays of Affection. ...
• Don't Forget to Tip.

What is not acceptable in Turkey?

It is important to take care not to say anything offensive about the Turkish nation or the Turkish flag or to write such things on social media. It is also a criminal offence to deface or tear up Turkish currency. The penalty for these crimes is from 6 months up to 3 years imprisonment.

What is the most common crime in Istanbul?

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.” Dr.

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.
 

10 Things NOT to do in Istanbul

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.

What are the common tourist traps in Istanbul?

One of the most common tourist scams in Istanbul, the shoe shine scam, is where a shoe polisher walking past you suddenly drops his brushes or box. As you help him pick the items up, he offers a free shoeshine. You agree, and he polishes your shoes and chats innocently, distracting your thoughts.

What are major issues in Turkey?

Issues

• Conservation of biodiversity.
• Air pollution.
• Waste disposal.
• Noise.
• Climate change.
• Water.
• Pollution.
• Drought.

Is Istanbul or London safer?

According to international crime indexes, Istanbul's rate is lower than London, Paris or Rome. It's even ranked among the safest metropolitan in Europe. Police prison is strong. Truist zones are well monitored and locals usually look out for visitors.

What not to wear in Turkey?

Dress Modestly

This generally means covering your shoulders, avoiding short skirts or shorts, and wearing clothing that isn't too tight.

What is considered rude in Turkey?

Pointing at someone is considered rude. People do not French kiss in public. When visiting homes, removing your shoes is commonly expected. When you sit down and cross your legs by putting your ankle of one leg on the knee of the other, make sure that the bottom of your foot is not pointing towards another person.

What foods do Turkish people not eat?

Believers never eat the meat of snakes, frogs, mice, scorpions, crows or magpies. Donkeys and mules are also haram, while horsemeat is considered mekruh — not forbidden but considered abominable. The milk of both horses and donkeys is haram. Other animals considered haram are pigs, turtles and elephants.

Can I wear jeans in Istanbul?

Yes, you can absolutely wear jeans in Istanbul for everyday exploring, as they are common and acceptable for both tourists and locals, but it's wise to dress more modestly (covering shoulders/knees) and carry a scarf for visiting mosques, and opt for lighter pants in hot summer months.
 

Is 20 lira a good tip?

Bellboys usually receive 20–50 Turkish Lira depending on the number of bags. Housekeeping staff should get 20–30 TL per night. You can also give one larger tip at the end of your stay. For concierge services such as booking tickets or arranging a car, 50–100 TL is suitable.

What to beware of in Turkey?

Terrorism

• public buildings.
• places of worship.
• airports.
• large public gatherings, including major events, public holidays, religious occasions.

What happened in Turkey in 2025?

Widespread protests began throughout Turkey on 19 March 2025 following the detention and arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and more than 100 other opposition members and protesters by Turkish authorities.

What are common diseases in Turkey?

Life expectancy in Turkey is 75.6 years for males and 81.3 years for females, and the life expectancy of the total population is 78.3 years. The three most common causes of mortality in the country are cardiovascular diseases (35.4%), cancer (15.2%), respiratory diseases (13.5%).

What's the trouble in Turkey?

Protests and large public gatherings can turn violent and should be avoided. Monitor local media and follow advice from authorities. There is an increased risk of terrorist attacks around large gatherings.

What are the bizarre laws in Turkey?

- The city halls of Istanbul and Bodrum have banned swimming in the sea in underwear. - It is also forbidden to use photos of girls in swimsuits on advertising billboards in Istanbul. - In the city of Kumlujah (Antalya region), women are prohibited from working in drinking establishments.

Is pickpocket common in Istanbul?

The most popular areas for pickpocketing in Istanbul are along Istiklal Caddesi, the Grand Bazaar (thanks to the crowds), and the T1 tram that passes through Beyoglu and Sultanahmet. How to avoid this: Always be aware of your surroundings and don't carry too much money.

What documents do I need to go to Turkey from the UK?

To enter Turkey, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 150 days after the date you arrive and at least 1 blank page. If you live in Turkey, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

What are common Turkey cooking mistakes?

6 Common Turkey Mistakes and How to Avoid Them on Thanksgiving

• Buying the Wrong Size Turkey. You never want to run out of turkey. ...
• Not Giving the Turkey Enough Time to Defrost. ...
• Washing the Turkey. ...
• Not Patting the Turkey Dry. ...
• Skipping the Seasoning. ...
• Avoiding a Meat Thermometer.