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

Listeners interested in traveling to Turkey should be aware of important travel advisories and recent developments as of July 2025. Turkey continues to welcome millions of visitors, and major tourist destinations such as Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Bodrum remain vibrant, safe, and bustling. Security in these areas is high, with a strong police presence and well-maintained tourist infrastructure. Istanbul especially is described as thriving, with bustling streets, lively bazaars, and a normal rhythm of daily life. Coastal resorts offer clean beaches, professional lifeguards, and a welcoming atmosphere for international tourists.

However, travel advisories from official government sources emphasize the need to exercise a high degree of caution throughout Turkey due to the ongoing threat of terrorism and the potential for sudden demonstrations, especially following high-profile political events earlier in the year, such as the arrest of Istanbul’s mayor. Although public protests related to this event have faded, travelers should remain watchful for spontaneous rallies, particularly in urban centers and avoid participating in demonstrations as these can sometimes lead to detentions for foreigners.

All listeners are strongly advised to avoid all travel within 10 kilometers of Turkey’s borders with Syria and Iraq, and to avoid non-essential travel to specific southeastern provinces including Sirnak, Hakkari, Batman, Bingöl, Bitlis, Kilis, Siirt, Șirnak, and Tunceli. These regions have seen sporadic violence, including terrorist attacks targeting security forces and concerns regarding kidnapping risks for foreigners. Overland travel in these areas should be limited, and if absolutely necessary, should be done only during daylight hours and on major roads, avoiding public transportation.

In major cities and tourist hubs, the threat of terrorism, while not constant, persists. Terrorist groups have previously targeted crowded public areas, transport hubs, hotels, popular attractions, and places of worship. Security officials may establish roadblocks or conduct routine ID checks, especially during large public gatherings, religious holidays, or major political events. Visitors should remain vigilant, stay updated by monitoring local news and government advisories, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Additional practical advice for all travelers includes using licensed taxis and tour services, keeping valuables secured in hotel safes, dressing modestly in conservative areas and at religious sites, and purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams is relatively low in tourist centers but can occur in crowded areas, so vigilance is advisable. Tap water is generally safe in urban areas, but bottled water is preferred in rural locations.

The Turkish government continues to prioritize the safety of tourists, with visible security protocols in airports, tourist sites, and hotels. All visitors are encouraged to consult their home country’s foreign affairs department for the latest travel advisories and to ensure their travel documents and plans are in order before booking trips to Turkey.