Turkey Travel Safety 2025: Essential Tips for Tourists Navigating Current Security Advisories and Popular Destinations

As of May 2025, travelers considering a trip to Turkey should be aware of several important advisories and recent developments affecting safety and travel logistics. The U.S. Department of State currently assigns Turkey a Level 2 advisory, meaning travelers should exercise increased caution due to risks related to terrorism and the possibility of arbitrary detentions. The advisory specifically warns against travel to the provinces of Sirnak, Hakkari, and any areas within ten kilometers of the Syrian border due to significant security threats. Terrorist groups remain active and continue to plot attacks, with tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, malls, hotels, and places of worship designated as potential targets. Security forces have detained thousands, including foreign citizens, often on grounds that appear politically motivated or based on limited evidence. Travelers should also be aware of the risk of exit bans, which could prevent them from leaving the country. Criticizing the Turkish government, even on social media or participating in protests not officially sanctioned, can lead to arrest according to the U.S. Department of State.

The Government of Canada issues similar guidance, recommending a high degree of caution throughout Turkey because of the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks and frequent demonstrations. Since March 19, 2025, there have been protests in various regions, notably in Istanbul, resulting in heightened police presence and the possibility of sudden disruptions. Canada advises avoiding all travel within 10 kilometers of the borders with Iraq and Syria and restricting non-essential travel to southeastern provinces such as Batman, Bingöl, Bitlis, Hakkari, Kilis, Siirt, Șirnak, and Tunceli, due to the unpredictable security environment and risk of terrorism.

The UK Foreign Office also urges travelers to stay away from areas close to the Syrian border and specifically advises against all travel within 10 kilometers of this border region, as well as to Sirnak and the province of Hakkari. Tourists are reminded always to carry their passports and visas, and to avoid large gatherings, especially political events.

Despite these warnings, tourism in Turkey is robust and experiencing strong recovery. In 2023, Turkey hosted over 57 million tourists, positioning the country as one of the world’s top travel destinations. Istanbul alone welcomed more than 20 million international visitors. While the main tourist hubs such as Istanbul, the Mediterranean coast, and other central regions remain considered safe for travelers, ongoing military operations and instability are largely confined to specific border areas and southeastern provinces. Recent years have seen a stabilization in internal security, with no major terrorism incidents reported in the past two to three years. The Turkish government has demonstrated commitment to visitor safety, and the hospitality for which the country is known remains a hallmark of the traveler experience.

For those traveling by road, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends basic precautions such as always wearing seat belts, preferring official taxis or public transport, avoiding night driving especially in rural areas, and ensuring proper documentation and insurance. Helmets are mandatory for motorbikes and bicycles, and travelers should be mindful of poorly lit roads and unpredictable rural traffic conditions.

Ultimately, while Turkey’s major tourist destinations remain open and safe for most visitors, the general advice from international authorities is to stay vigilant, avoid demonstrations, steer clear of southeastern border regions, and follow local laws and customs. Listening to up-to-date government advisories and using common sense—such as steering clear of political gatherings and maintaining awareness of your surroundings—will help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Turkey.