Turkey Travel Guide 2025: Essential Safety Tips for Tourists Visiting Istanbul and Popular Destinations

For travelers considering a trip to Turkey in May 2025, several important safety considerations should be kept in mind. Turkey currently has a Level 2 travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State, which means you should exercise increased caution due to terrorism risks and the possibility of arbitrary detentions.

Turkish security has improved in recent years, with no major terrorist incidents reported in the past 2-3 years. Tourism has been steadily recovering, with Turkey becoming the fourth most visited country in the world in 2023, welcoming 57.2 million tourists. Istanbul alone attracted over 20 million international visitors that year.

Despite this positive trend, ongoing political tensions have led to demonstrations following the arrest of Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu in March 2025. Protests have occurred in major cities including Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. As of late April 2025, travel experts confirm you can safely visit Istanbul and other tourist areas if you remain mindful of sporadic protests.

Areas to avoid completely include any region within 10 kilometers of the Syrian border. The U.S. State Department specifically warns against travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles of the Syrian border due to terrorism threats. Other southeastern provinces considered risky include Batman, Bingöl, Bitlis, Tunceli, Muş, Siirt, and Kilis.

When traveling in Turkey, take common-sense precautions: avoid traveling alone at night, dress modestly to blend in with locals, stay alert in crowded tourist areas, and follow instructions from local authorities. Turkish security officials frequently conduct ID checks, so always carry your passport and a copy of your visa.

Roads in western, southwestern, and coastal tourist regions are generally well-maintained, but driving requires caution as local drivers often ignore traffic regulations. Public demonstrations not approved by the government can lead to arrest, as can criticizing the government, including on social media.

The tourism industry has worked hard to ensure visitor safety, and the country's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and famous Turkish hospitality continue to make it an appealing destination for travelers willing to take appropriate precautions.