Turkey Travel Advice & Safety

Updated:31 October 2025
Still Valid:Yes
Latest update:There have been large protests across Türkiye, including in Istanbul. Demonstrations and protests may continue and may turn violent. A protest ban is in effect and there are restrictions to freedom of movement for those suspected of participating in protests. This is likely to be strictly enforced. Avoid protests and large public gatherings. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.
 

We advise:

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the threat of terrorism.

Higher levels apply.

Advice Levels

Level 2
Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the threat of terrorism.
Level 3

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak due to the unpredictable security situation.

Level 4

Do not travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to serious threat of terrorism, violence and acts of war in this area. 

Full Advice

  • There have been large protests across Türkiye, including in Istanbul. Demonstrations and protests may continue and may turn violent. A protest ban is in effect and there are restrictions to freedom of movement for those suspected of participating in protests. This is likely to be strictly enforced. Avoid protests and large public gatherings. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.
  • There’s an ongoing risk of earthquakes in parts of Türkiye. Aftershocks can continue for days or weeks. Know the dangers of a major earthquake in your area and where your local shelter is.
  • There’s an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye. Possible targets include tourist areas, transport networks, shopping malls, hotels, places of worship and diplomatic premises. Be alert to potential threats, especially in locations frequented by foreigners. Avoid crowds, keep a low profile and be aware of your surroundings. Monitor the media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.
  • The security situation in the Middle East is unpredictable. If the regional security situation deteriorates again this may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions at short notice.
  • There have been several recent deaths reported in Türkiye from methanol in counterfeit drinks. Be alert to the potential risks around food and drink spiking and methanol poisoning. See our advice on partying safely while overseas. Toxic substances, including methanol, could be mixed into alcoholic drinks. Drink only at reputable venues. Avoid homemade alcohol. Get medical help straight away if you suspect poisoning.
  • Malaria is a risk from May to October in Amikova, Çukurova Plain and the southeast. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Other insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
  • Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis, measles and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked foods.
  • If you’re considering medical treatment in Türkiye, you should do your research, including checking whether your insurance will cover you. Before you go, read our advice on travelling overseas for medical tourism. 
  • Don’t use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences.
  • By law, you must always carry a photo ID. Police conduct random checks regularly. Turkish authorities do not accept Local/National driver’s licences as ID. Carry your passport with you at all times.
  • It’s illegal to ‘insult’ Türkiye, the Turkish flag, the President or government, and the country’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Don’t make insulting comments, including on social media.
  • It’s illegal to photograph military sites.
  • Many parts of Türkiye have conservative dress and behaviour standards. Dress modestly, particularly at mosques and shrines. Respect religious and social traditions. Avoid public displays of affection.
  • You’ll need an e-visa for tourism or business which will allow you to stay for less than 90 days in a 180-day period.
  • If you’re travelling to Türkiye for medical services, you should apply for a medical visa through the HealthTürkiye online portal.
  • Land border crossings into a neighbouring country may open and close at short notice. Check the latest public information from local authorities on entry requirements and border arrangements.
  • Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Türkiye for the latest details.

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider
  • employer
  • airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.

Police

Call 112.

English-speaking officers may be available in police departments at:

  • Ankara
  • Antalya
  • Istanbul
  • Izmir

In Istanbul, call the dedicated Tourist Police unit on +90 212 527 4503.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.