You want to visit one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world but you are wondering if it is not dangerous to go to Turkey at the moment.
Indeed, in 2025 tourists are worried about the safety of traveling to Turkey because of the 2022 attacks on Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul , the February 6, 2023 earthquake and the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian territories.
In addition to the terrorist threat, there are also concerns about crime in certain regions of Turkey. So, it's normal to wonder if Turkey is a dangerous country for tourists.
Below you will find out whether or not it is dangerous to travel to Turkey at the moment, which areas to avoid in 2024, recommendations for caution and advice for women's behavior and clothing.
This article is a synthesis of reliable and sourced information (government recommendations, statistics, press articles) which does not contain any judgment or discriminatory remarks.
Turkey dangerous country?
According to the latest Numbeo.com global ranking , Turkey is not among the most dangerous countries in the world (see map below). In fact, this site gives Turkey a relatively low crime index of only 40.05.
This is confirmed by the Swiss government website , which states:
“The crime rate is relatively low. Mainly in Istanbul, pickpocketing occurs, as well as armed robberies or isolated assaults. However, there is a particular risk in crowded places, for example in airports, train stations, metro stations and open markets . ”
When compared with other crime indices, Turkey appears less dangerous than France , Italy , Mexico , Brazil or the United States.
Is it dangerous to go to Turkey in 2025?
In 2025, apart from the risk of terrorist attack, it is not dangerous to travel to Turkey on tourist sites.
Indeed, the Turkish government has taken measures to ensure the safety of visitors. Police forces are very well trained and visible in tourist areas. They are there to protect tourists, always ready to help visitors in an emergency. In addition, the country has implemented strict security measures in public places such as airports, train stations and museums.
However, like many destinations, it is always advisable to exercise caution when traveling to a foreign country and Turkey is no exception.
Visitors should be aware of dangerous areas and avoid them where possible. These areas are usually located near the Syrian and Iraqi borders (see more info below).
What recommendations for trips to Turkey?
In 2025, on its France Diplomatie website , the French Government published the following recommendations for travelers:
"The terrorist risk remains high throughout the territory, particularly due to the immediate proximity to conflict zones where terrorist groups are present (Syria, Iraq)."
"It is important to observe the precautionary measures inherent to any stay in particularly touristy areas. All persons travelling to Turkey are encouraged to register on the Ariane portal . For an extended stay, it is necessary to register, depending on the location of the stay, with the consular section of the French Embassy in Ankara or the Consulate General in Istanbul. As in all major cities, increased vigilance is recommended in tourist areas, particularly in Istanbul. Caution is advised when approached by strangers: they may have dishonest intentions and offer drinks or food that may contain tranquilizers."
But, although there have been terrorist attacks in Turkey as well as in other countries, particularly in Europe , the country remains a rather safe and welcoming destination for tourists.
With caution and common sense, visitors can enjoy all that Turkey has to offer but only if they avoid dangerous areas (see below).
Regarding the conflict in Israel, Palestine, and Gaza, France has updated its travel recommendations . And as the situation is evolving daily, it is essential to always check the country's security status on this website.
Dangerous areas in Turkey
One of the most dangerous areas in Turkey is the southeast of the country , particularly the provinces of Diyarbakir, Mardin, and Sirnak. These provinces are notorious for the ongoing conflict between the Turkish government and the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). As a result, violence is frequent, including bombings, shootings, and kidnappings. Travelers are advised to avoid these regions altogether and, if they must travel there, to exercise extreme caution and stay informed of the latest developments.
Another dangerous area in Turkey is the border region with Syria, where the ongoing civil war has led to high levels of violence and instability. The provinces of Hatay, Gaziantep, and Kilis are particularly dangerous due to their proximity to the Syrian border. Tourists should also avoid the southeastern province of Hakkari, which borders Iran and Iraq and is known for its high level of terrorist activity.
Other areas to avoid
The majority of the country is in the yellow zone (enhanced vigilance) on both France Diplomatie and the Government of Canada website.
But there are two zones in orange and red vigilance that tourists must absolutely avoid:
The areas formally advised against are those immediately around the borders with Syria and Iraq, the Reyhanli, Kirikhan, Siirt, Şırnak, Hakkari and Aǧrı regions.
The departments of Hatay, Kilis, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Mardin, Diyarbakır, Batman are also strongly discouraged.
The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published on its website the map of dangerous areas in Turkey: Map of risk areas.
How to dress when you are a woman?
This is a question that travelers who want to respect the traditions, the Muslim religion and the Turkish way of life can ask themselves.
In general, Turkish society is conservative and respectful of Islam. It is therefore best to dress properly in Turkey when you are a woman, especially when visiting mosques, religious sites or rural areas.
This means that, when a woman wants to respect the Turks and their customs, she will dress in a way that covers her shoulders, chest, knees and avoids clothing that is too tight or too revealing.