Is It Safe To Travel To Istanbul?

Is Istanbul Safe to Visit in 2022? – Lizavetta/Shutterstock The American, Canadian, and Australian governments agree that when traveling to Istanbul or Turkey in general, visitors should exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism, particularly near the Turkish-Syrian border.

1. Fortunately, acts of terrorism have not occurred since January 2017.
2. Additionally, these acts typically do not target tourists.
3. Besides the threat of terrorism, Istanbul is considered relatively safe for tourists and locals.
4. Istanbul is even considered moderately safe for solo travelers and female travelers.

However, visitors should remain cautious as many tourists are often caught in scams, frauds, or pickpocketing schemes. Let’s look further at what you can expect when visiting Istanbul.

Is Turkey safe for tourists 2022?

Is Turkey Safe to Visit in 2022? – Lals Stock/Shutterstock Turkey is relatively safe to visit, but you do need to keep your wits about you when you go. Usually, tourists don’t have to deal with too much violent crime, especially in more popular tourist areas, but you might run into pickpocketers.

Is it safe to travel right now to Turkey?

Exercise a high degree of caution Pay close attention to your personal security and the current health situation. Monitor the media for new and existing risks. in Türkiye overall. Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the high threat of terrorist attack.

Is Istanbul safe at night for tourists?

Is Istanbul Safe At Night? – Any city in the world is more dangerous at night than in the daytime, and Istanbul is no exception. Luckily, Istanbul is still quite safe at night, but you should take extra precautions. Walking around at night in one of the tourist neighborhoods in Istanbul such as Sultanahmet or Kadikoy is quite safe.

1. The places that you should be careful of are the nightlife district in Istanbul, especially near Taksim.
2. Petty theft and pickpocketing usually happen in crowded nightclubs and bars, and Taksim is one of the most popular areas for nightlife in Istanbul, especially for travelers.
3. Another risk is getting approached by people who want to show you this place they were recommended.

Usually, they’ll say they want to have a drink with you, and then take you to a place that is going to be in on the scam. It ends with you paying for all the food and drinks of the party, and it won’t be cheap.

Is it still safe to go to Turkey on holiday?

The FCDO advise against all travel to:

areas within 10km of the border with Syria

The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to:

Sirnak the province of Hakkari

For more information on these areas, see Local travel and Terrorism On 13 November there was an explosion in Istiklal Avenue shopping street in central Istanbul. The British Embassy is in contact with local authorities and continues to seek further information.

• Travel within the city may be affected as the authorities continue their investigations.
• You should remain vigilant, and follow the advice of the local security authorities and/or your tour operator.
• If you, or friend or relative, are impacted by this incident and need to speak to a consular officer, you can call the British Embassy in Ankara +90 312 455 33 44 or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) in London on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours).

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Turkey’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider. For up to date information on entry restrictions and requirements.

If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting. It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO ‘s guidance on foreign travel insurance, If you are due to travel to/from the United Kingdom you should contact your travel operator.

Further updates will be published when they are available. Check our advice on things to consider, and be prepared to stay overseas longer than planned. See International travel British nationals made over 2.5 million visits to Turkey in 2019. Most visits are trouble free.

Be alert to your surroundings and remain vigilant in crowded places popular with foreign nationals, including during festival periods. If you’re travelling to Turkey for tourist or business purposes, you are able to travel without a visa for visits of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. See Visas Many parts of Turkey are subject to earthquakes.

You should familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake and follow the advice of the local authorities. See Natural disasters The effect of the attempted coup in July 2016 is still deeply felt in Turkey although the situation is now considerably calmer.

• A state of emergency imposed after the coup attempt has been lifted, although some restrictions remain in place.
• See Political situation Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey.
• Terrorist groups, including PKK, Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) and far left organisations, continue to plan and carry out attacks.

Further attacks could be indiscriminate. Most attacks have taken place in the south-east of the country, and in Ankara and Istanbul. While there is a potential that citizens from western countries may be targets or caught up in attacks, particularly in the major cities, attacks are most likely to target the Turkish state, civilians and demonstrations.

You should be vigilant, follow the advice of local security authorities, monitor media reports and keep up to date with this travel advice. See Terrorism It is illegal to be a member or supporter of a terrorist organisation in Turkey, including expressions of support on social media. Some organisations in the region though not proscribed in the UK, such as the YPG and the Gülen Movement are illegal in Turkey.

You should carry your passport and a printed copy of your visa (if applicable) or residence permit at all times. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the Turkish authorities are stopping members of the public to conduct ID checks. See Local laws and customs There have been reports of an increase in holidaymakers being encouraged to submit a claim for personal injury if they have experienced gastric illness during their stay.

• You can find more information about the action you can take if you have suffered a personal injury on the Citizens Advice website,
• You should only consider pursuing a complaint or claim if you have genuinely suffered from injury or illness.
• If you make a false or fraudulent claim, you may face legal proceedings in the UK or Turkey.

You can contact the emergency services by calling 112. Alternatively, you can call emergency services directly by calling 155 (police), 112 (ambulance) and 110 (fire). If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission,

Where is the safest place in Turkey?

Which areas in Turkey are safest for families? Families hoping for a classic poolside holiday with a killer beach view visit areas in the provinces of Dalaman, Antalya, Feyithe and Bodrum – all generally considered to be safe.

Do I need a visa for Turkey 2022?

The Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Application System was launched on 17 April 2013 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye. This system allows visitors travelling to Türkiye to easily obtain their e-Visas online (www.evisa.gov.tr), in approximately three minutes.

• It is possible to obtain e-Visa 7/24 at everywhere with internet connection.
• The applicants can obtain their visa after they fill in the necessary information concerning their identity, passport and travel dates and pay visa fee online.
• Please note that e-visa is only valid when the purpose of travel is tourism or commerce.

For other purposes, such as work and study, visas are given by Turkish Embassies or Consulates. The term “official passports” covers diplomatic, service, special and official passports. You are kindly advised to have a travel document/passport valid for at least 6 months as from the date of your arrival in Türkiye.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues efforts to strengthen the e-Visa system and to better enable foreign nationals to easily obtain their visas. In this context, – In addition to English, French, and Spanish; Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, German, Arabic and Chinese language options will be added to the e-Visa system.

– In addition to Visa and Master Card, payment is accepted from other commonly used credit cards and debit cards. – Tour operators may apply for group e-Visas and make lump sum payments for them. – Necessary arrangements will be made to allow foreign visitors to obtain e-Visas from authorized airline companies offices, including those companies’ offices in airports.

1. Fees for e-Visas obtained via the e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.tr) are lower than the fees for visas obtained upon arrival to Turkish airports.
2. Information regarding visa fees can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
3. Http://www.mfa.gov.tr/data/KONSOLOSLUK/vize-harc-miktarlari-en.pdf ).

Visa regime for truck drivers of a country may differ from the overall visa regime effective for citizens of that particular country. For further information, please contact the nearest Turkish mission. Regardless of the visa regime applied towards the citizens of a country, the travel document holders of that country need to obtain visa from Turkish missions beforehand.

1. Foreigners who will shoot a documentary film conduct a research or an archeological excavation should get a special permission from the Turkish authorities in advance.
2. If you have a valid visa, you do not need a residence permit up to 90 days.
3. On the other hand, foreigners who shall reside, work or study in Türkiye, should register themselves at the nearest local police department upon their arrival in Türkiye, regardless of the validity of their visa.

Information on Work Visa: To work in Türkiye, you must apply to the nearest Turkish mission to obtain work permit and visa. Your passport, visa application form and a letter from your employer are the necessary documents for your application. Other documents should be submitted to the Turkish Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) by your employer within ten working days after your application.

You may find the list of those documents in the MLSS’s website (http://www.csgb.gov.tr). Applications are finalized by the MLSS within thirty days at the latest. Right after your arrival in Türkiye (before starting to work), you should be registered at the local police department within one month to obtain the necessary residence permit.

As of 1 January 2015, in accordance with the article 7.1b of “the Law on Foreigners and International Protection” no.6458, foreigners wishing to enter Türkiye should carry a travel document (passport) with an expiration date at least 60 days beyond the “duration of stay” of their visa, e-Visa, visa exemption, or residence permit.

The citizens of the countries which are stated at the below link are exempted form this Article; Example A: In order to enter Türkiye having a visa with 90 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 150 days (90 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance.

Example B: In order to enter Türkiye having a visa with 30 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 90 days (30 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance.” The following categories are exempted from this provision: – Citizens of countries who are allowed to enter Türkiye with their national ID’s in accordance with “European Agreement on Regulations governing the Movement of Persons between Member States of the Council of Europe”, http://www.mfa.gov.tr/countries-whose-citizens-are-allowed-to-enter-turkey-with-their-national-id_s.en.mfa Holders of diplomatic and official passports are also exempted from this Article.

Afghanistan: Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Albania: Official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Türkiye, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments.

Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit from Türkiye, up to 90 days within six months starting from the first entry date. Algeria: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holder Algerian citizens, under the age of 15 and above the age of 65 are exempted from visa up to 90 days within any 180 day period for their touristic visits.

Ordinary passport holders between the age of 15 and 65 are required to have visa. Ordinary passport holder Algerian citiziens between the ages of 15-18 and 35-65 with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

• Www.evisa.gov.tr,
• Angola: Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Diplomatic and service passport holder citizens of Angola are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period.
• Antigua-Barbuda: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Türkiye at the ports of entry.

1. Argentina: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
2. Armenia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
3. Ordinary passport holders can obtain one-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

Australia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Austria: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Azerbaijan: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period. Bahamas: Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. They can obtain three month multiple e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Bahrain: Official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Official passport holder Bahraini citizens may obtain visas for up to 15 days at border crossings. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye and they may obtain their 30 day period one entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

1. Bangladesh: Bangladeshi nationals holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
2. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa.
3. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Barbados: Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. They can obtain three month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travel up to 90 days. Belarus: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

• Total period of stay should be no longer than 90 days within 1 year.
• Belgium: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Belize: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Benin : Ordinary, special and service passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Bhutan : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

• Bolivia : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Bosnia-Herzegovina: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days.
• Botswana : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Brazil : Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Brunei : Diplomatic, Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa to enter into and transit through and stay in Türkiye for a period not exceeding 30 days.

• Bulgaria : Identity card and ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Diplomatic and service passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.
• Burkina Faso : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Burundi : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa requirement for a period not exceeding 90 days within any 180 days period. Special, service and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter into Türkiye.

• Cambodia : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.
• Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Cameroon : Official passport (Diplomatic, Service and Special) holders and members of official delegations are exempted from visa requirements to enter into, exit from, transit through and stay temporarily in Türkiye for a maximum period of 90 days, reckoned from the first entry date.

Official passport (Diplomatic, Service and Special) holders, who are not members of official delegations, are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Canada : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Ordinary passport holders can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Cape Verde: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holder Cape Verde citizens with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit, provided that certain conditions are fulfilled, may obtain 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

Central African Republic: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Chad : Diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Chile : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. People’s Republic of China: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa. These passport holders can obtain their 30 days single entry e-Visas via the web site www.evisa.gov.tr,

Colombia : Colombian nationals holding diplomatic, official and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Comoros : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Costa Rika: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

• Cote d’Ivoire: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Croatia :Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Cuba : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Czech Republic: Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Democratic Republic of Congo: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days within any 180 days period.

Ordinary and service passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Denmark : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Djibouti : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Dominica : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

• They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Türkiye at the ports of entry.
• Dominican Republic: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Türkiye at the ports of entry. East Timor: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

East Timor citizens may get their 30 days single entry e-Visas via the web site www.evisa.gov.tr, Ecuador : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Egypt : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Ordinary passport holders may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-Visas via www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they have a valid Schengen or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit and that they travel to Türkiye with Turkish Airlines or Egypt Air. Besides, those ordinary passport holders who are under 20 or over 45 years old may get their 30-day single-entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

El Salvador: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Equatorial Guinea: Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holder Equatorial Guinean citizens with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit, provided that certain conditions are fulfilled, may obtain 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Diplomatic, official and service passport holder citizens of Equatorial Guinea are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period. Eritrea : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Estonia : Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

• Eswatini : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Ethiopia : Ethiopian nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa.
• Fiji : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

These passport holders may obtain their one-month single-entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, They can also get their 90-day multiple-entry visas from Turkish missions. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

1. Finland : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.
2. France : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
3. Gabon : Ordinary passport holder citizens of Gabon are required to obtain visa to enter Türkiye.

Diplomatic, service and official passport holder citizens of Gabon are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period. Gambia : Ordinary, special and service passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Georgia : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Germany : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ghana : Diplomatic passport holders are exempt from visa for their travel to Türkiye up to 90 days within 180 days.

Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Greece : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Grenada : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

They can obtain three month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Guatemala : Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Guinea : Guinean nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Guinea-Bissau: Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Diplomatic and official passport holder citizens of Guinea-Bissau are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period.

1. Guyana : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days.
2. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye and they can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.
3. Greek Cypriot Administration: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Both official and ordinary passport holders may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Haiti : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

• They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Türkiye at the ports of entry.
• Honduras: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of PRC: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC: Ordinary and official “Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China ( SAR ) Passport” holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Hong Kong citizens who have “British National Overseas Passport” are subject to visa and they can obtain their three month period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr Holders of “Document of Identity for Visa Purposes-Hong Kong (D.I)” must get their visas from the Turkish diplomatic or consular missions abroad.

• Hungary : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days reckoned from the date of first entry.
• Iceland : Ordinary and Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• India : Diplomatic passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels to Türkiye up to 90 days.

Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

1. Indonesia : Ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa up to 30 days for each entry provided that they do not exceed 90 days in any 180 day period.
2. Indonesian nationals holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.
3. Iran : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Iraq : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Ireland : Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Israel : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Italy : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Jamaica : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. They can obtain three month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Japan : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Jordan : Diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within six months starting from the first entry date. Diplomatic and official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Türkiye, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments.

Truck and bus drivers and co-drivers, crew members of civil airplanes, trains and ships, engaged in international transport of goods and passengers, are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Türkiye, up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

• Azakhstan : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.
• Enya : Citizens of Kenya holding diplomatic, official, service and special passport are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date.

Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Kiribati : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Kosovo : Citizens of Kosova holding diplomatic, official and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

• Uwait : Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within last 180 days.
• Yrgyzstan : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Laos : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days within any 180 days period.

Ordinary and other types of official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Latvia : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days. Lebanon : Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Diplomatic and official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Türkiye, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Truck and bus drivers and co-drivers, crew members of civil airplanes, trains and ships, engaged in international transport of goods and passengers, are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Türkiye, up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Lesotho : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Liberia : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Libya : Diplomatic and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within any six months. Ordinary passport holder Libyan citizens, under the age of 16 and above the age of 55 are exempted from visa up to 90 days within any 180 day period for their touristic visits.

Ordinary passport holders between the age of 16 and 55 are required to have visa. Ordinary passport holders between those ages with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

Liechtenstein : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Lithuania : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date. Luxemburg : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Macao Special Administration: Ordinary and official Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Madagascar : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Malawi : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Malaysia : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Maldives : Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

They can obtain three month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Mali : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa. Malta : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Marshall Islands: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Mauritania : Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Mauritius : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. They can obtain one month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr or three month period multi entry visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad. Mexico : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

1. Ordinary and service/official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
2. Holders of such passports may get their 90-day multiple-entry visas from Turkish missions abroad or obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,
3. Moldova : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the date of first entry.

Monaco : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Mongolia : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa up to 30 days for their touristic visits to Türkiye. Montenegro : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

• Morocco : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Mozambique : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter into Türkiye.
• Diplomatic and service passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the date of first entry on condition that their passport has at least 6 months validity.

Myanmar (Burma): Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Namibia : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Nauru : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad. Nepal : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Official passport holders can get one month period visas and ordinary passport holders can get 15 day period visas from from the Turkish diplomatic or consular missions abroad.

Nepalese passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions. Netherlands : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

• New Zealand: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Nicaragua : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
• Niger : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Diplomatic and service passport holder citizens of Niger are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period.

Nigeria : Ordinary, official/service passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Ordinary and Official passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month period single entry visas from Istanbul Ataturk Airport. North Macedonia : North Macedonian nationals holding diplomatic, service and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Northern Mariana Islands: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Norway : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period. On the other hand, Norwegian citizens who will travel to Türkiye from Norway for touristic purposes are exempt from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period, by using their national identity cards with chips instead of their passports until 31 December 2022,

Oman : Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. They can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr and stay in Türkiye up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Pakistan : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Türkiye up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders with a valid Schengen, USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

1. Palau Republic: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
2. Palestine : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
3. Ordinary passport holder Palestine citizens with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit, provided that certain conditions are fulfilled, may obtain 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their official or touristic visits up to 90 days in any 180 day period. Holders of other types of official passports are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Panama : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

• Papua New Guinea : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Paraguay : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.
• Peru : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days.

Philippines : Nationals of the Philippines holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa. Holders of such passports may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they have a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit.

Poland : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Portugal : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Qatar : Diplomatic, service, special and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Republic of Congo : Congolese nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Romania : Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

• Russian Federation: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their touristic and business travels up to 60 days.
• Service passport holders are exempted from visa up to 30 days on condition that not to exceed 90 days within any 180 days period.
• Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Rwanda : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Diplomatic and service passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period. St. Christopher (St. Kitts) & Nevis : Nationals of St. Christopher (St. Kitts) and Nevis holding diplomatic, official/service and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

1. St Lucia : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
2. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
3. They can obtain three month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,
4. St Vincent and the Grenadines : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye and can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Türkiye at the ports of entry.

San Marino: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Sao Tome and Principe : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Saudi Arabia: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Türkiye with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date.

Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. They can obtain their three month period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Senegal : Senegalese nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

1. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa.
2. Senegalese passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month period single entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,
3. Serbia : Diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders and holders of travel document are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Diplomatic and official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Türkiye, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Truck and bus drivers and co-drivers, crew members of civil airplanes, trains and ships, engaged in international transport of goods and passengers, are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Türkiye, up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Seychelles : Seychelles nationals holding diplomatic, official or ordinary passports are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period. Sierra Leone : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Diplomatic and service passport holder citizens of Sierra Leone are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period.

Singapore : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Slovakia : Ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels to Türkiye with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date.

Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Slovenia : Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Türkiye with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date.

Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Türkiye up to 90 days within six months. Solomon Islands : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

• Somalia : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• South Africa : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• They can obtain three-month period multiple entry visas from Turkish representations abroad or one month period single entry visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Republic of Korea (South Korea): Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. South Sudan: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date.

Ordinary, service and special passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Spain : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Sri Lanka : Official and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Sri Lankan nationals with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

Sudan : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Türkiye up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary, service and special passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

• Surinam : Diplomatic and service passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days within any 180 days period.
• Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
• Ordinary passport holder Surinamese citizens may obtain 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

Surinamese nationals may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Sweden : Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

Switzerland : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Syria : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Taiwan : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holders may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Tajikistan : Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Türkiye up to 30 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Türkiye up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Service passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Türkiye, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Service passport holders, who are not appointed to Türkiye, are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit from Türkiye, up to 60 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Tanzania : Tanzanian nationals holding diplomatic and service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa. Thailand : Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Togo : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180 day period. Ordinary and other types of official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Tonga : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Trinidad and Tobago: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Tunisia : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa.

Turkmenistan : Official passport holders are exempt from visa requirement for their travels to Türkiye up to 30 days, Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Tuvalu : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Uganda : Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ukraine : Ukrainian nationals holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

1. Citizens of Ukraine may also use their valid biometric identity cards during their travel to Türkiye.
2. United Arab Emirates: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
3. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.
4. Ordinary passport holders can obtain their three-month period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

United Kingdom: Diplomatic and ordinary passport holders (British citizens) are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Service and special passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. UK passports holders with “British National Overseas”, “British Subject” and “British Protected Person” nationality are subjected to visa and they can only get their visas from the Turkish diplomatic or consular missions abroad.

United States of America: Official and ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Ordinary passport holder USA citizens may obtain their visas through www.evisa.gov.tr website. Uruguay : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Uzbekistan : Diplomatic and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days within any 180 day period. Other types of official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Vanuatu : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visa from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad. Vatican (Holy See): Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Venezuela : Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days in each six-month period.

Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Vietnam : Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr,

Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Western Samoa : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Yemen : Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye.

These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, Zambia : Diplomatik passport holders are exempt from visa for their travel to Türkiye for up to 90 days within 180 days.

Do I need a PCR test to leave Turkey?

Requirements have been cancelled. There is no requirement of vaccination certificate and/or pcr or antigen tests.

Are flights being Cancelled to Turkey?

About Flight Restrictions, New Scheduled and Cancelled Flights About Flight Restrictions, New Scheduled and Cancelled Flights Dear Guests, According to the measures taken by the Turkish government and other foreign countries against the new coronavirus (COVID-19), flight restrictions have been imposed between Turkey and all countries.

• In line with the SHY-Passenger Regulations due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) published as of 25th of March 2020, all cancelled flights ticket operations will be done according to the process down below.
• Open Ticket
• You can convert your ticket to open ticket via flypgs.com and Pegasus mobile app

– No penalty will be applied when you convert to open ticket.- You can use you open ticket within a year on any route. – If you don’t use you’re open ticket, you can get a full refund two months after the reciprocal flight restrictions have been lifted.

1. – No difference fee will be applied if your existing ticket and new ticket are in the same price range.
2. Refund
3. All cancelled flights can only be refunded via our free call centre number 0 (850) 250 67 02
4. – As the SHY-Passenger Regulations of published on 25th March 2020 due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), If you’re not able to use a ticket that you have converted to an open ticket, you can obtain your refund two months after reciprocal flight restrictions have been lifted.
5. Best Regards,
6. Pegasus Airlines

: About Flight Restrictions, New Scheduled and Cancelled Flights

Is Istanbul 2022 Safe?

Is Istanbul Safe to Visit in 2022? – Lizavetta/Shutterstock The American, Canadian, and Australian governments agree that when traveling to Istanbul or Turkey in general, visitors should exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism, particularly near the Turkish-Syrian border.

Fortunately, acts of terrorism have not occurred since January 2017. Additionally, these acts typically do not target tourists. Besides the threat of terrorism, Istanbul is considered relatively safe for tourists and locals. Istanbul is even considered moderately safe for solo travelers and female travelers.

However, visitors should remain cautious as many tourists are often caught in scams, frauds, or pickpocketing schemes. Let’s look further at what you can expect when visiting Istanbul.

Which part of Istanbul is safest?

Best Areas in Istanbul for –

Best Area in Istanbul for Sightseeing: Sultanahmet This likably laidback, historic, and compact area on the southern peninsula is home to four of Istanbul’s prime attractions: the world-famous Blue Mosque, the magnificent Hagia Sophia (once a Greek cathedral and now a museum), Topkapi Palace and gardens, and the extraordinary Grand Bazaar. All are within walking distance of most hotels in this area, and the narrow streets are jam-packed with places to eat, drink, and shop. Best Area in Istanbul for Nightlife: Taksim There is no obvious center within Istanbul for after-dark fun because most bars, nightclubs, and live music venues are spread across the suburbs and cater mostly to locals. The narrow streets of the old city offer very little nightlife, so head to Taksim across the bridge. Stretching about a mile between two metro stations, the wonderful pedestrian street and laneways on both sides are crowded with places to drink, dance, and socialize. And most upmarket hotels have a nightclub or two. Best Area in Istanbul for Food & Restaurants: Kabataş There is absolutely no shortage of fabulous places across the city to eat – from tiny kebab stalls to opulent restaurants primarily catering to, and priced for, tourists. Along the Bosphorus Strait, Kabataş is very conveniently connected by metro to the southern peninsula, by funicular to Taksim, and close enough to walk from Beşiktaş. Kabataş is chock-full of adorable bistros that face the water and serve (mostly) Turkish food, with a focus on seafood – and at reasonable prices considering the magical setting. With lights from the eastern peninsula reflecting in the water, it’s particularly romantic after dark – more so, on a dinner cruise leaving from a terminal at Kabataş.

The excellent value Hotel Ibrahim Pasha, On a quiet side street close to the Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque.

Best Area in Istanbul for History: Sultanahmet Unquestionably the most historic and fascinating part of Istanbul is Sultanahmet, home to the magnificent Blue Mosque (built in the early 17th century), the equally majestic Hagia Sophia museum (and former Greek cathedral), and the 560-year-old Topkapi Palace and its surrounding gardens. And, perhaps, nothing showcases Istanbul’s history and vibrancy more than the extraordinary Grand Bazaar. What’s more, the streets of Sultanahmet are dotted with other museums, mosques, and bazaars, as well as hammam Turkish baths. Best Areas for Views: Karaköy and Galata A few minutes’ walk across the bridges to the northern peninsula, Karaköy is a vibrant area offering superb views across the Golden Horn waterway to the old city in the south and beyond the Bosphorus Strait to modern residential districts in the east. In neighboring Galata, further inland, some hotels and rooftop bars in more elevated areas offer panoramic views that upmarket hotels in Beşiktaş and Taksim would charge the earth for. Best Area for Walking: Taksim The narrow streets of the old city in the south can be unpleasantly overcrowded, while other areas, such as Kabataş alongside the Bosphorus Strait, are also packed with people and noise from traffic. Much more pleasant for walking is the area in and around Taksim. From the massive vehicle-free plaza at Taksim Square, streets lined with boutiques radiate north alongside gardens. Best of all, a pedestrian street bursting with places to eat, drink, and shop heads southwest for 1 mile before veering down through the lovely area of Galata and finishing at the bridge to the old city. Best Area in Istanbul for Vibe and Culture: Kabataş Istanbul is not just about history and old buildings. It is as vibrant as anywhere in Europe, especially along the Bosphorus Strait at Kabataş. Conveniently connected by public ferry, bus, metro, and funicular, Kabataş is home to a surprising number of museums. With so many waterside bistros facing the water and plenty of shops further up the streets away from the coast, Kabataş offers a lovable vibe and is perfect for people-watching. Best Area in Istanbul for Shopping: Taksim The city layout precludes any major malls within areas tourists would normally visit and stay. The narrow streets of the old city are packed with shops and stalls, but most only sell souvenirs – sometimes of questionable quality. For the finest range of shops, and within a pleasingly compact area, head to Taksim. The mile-long pedestrian street between two metro stations (and linked by an old-fashioned tram) and the alleys along both sides are teeming with places to spend, spend, spend. Best Area in Istanbul for Families: Taksim The streets around the old city can be overcrowded from May to September with tour groups and tour buses – and persistent street-side hawkers can add to the hassle. In contrast, Taksim offers far more space, especially around the public gardens, massive vehicle-free plaza, and extended pedestrian street packed with fabulous shops and all sorts of cheap and cheerful places to eat. Some hotels in this area are more like resorts, offering substantial lawns, a huge pool, and other facilities for families. Taksim is also well-connected by metro, but, perhaps, more interesting for the younger ones is the funicular that heads down to the water at Kabataş and the cable car that swings across a valley to the residential area of Maçka.

Best Area in Istanbul for First-Time Visitors: Taksim Istanbul’s enormous size, massive population, and unusual layout across three peninsulas can seem daunting – and new visitors could also become overwhelmed by the number of tourists and tour buses along the narrow streets of the old city. In contrast, Taksim offers gardens and spacious streets ideal for walking and compact, yet likable areas packed with cafés, bars, and shops. And Taksim is superbly connected by metro, funicular, and cable car to many of the must-sees across the city. Most Romantic Area in Istanbul: Beşiktaş It is particularly romantic along the section of the northern peninsula facing the Bosphorus Strait – especially so after dark when lights reflect from the old city and eastern peninsula on the so-called ‘Asian Side’. Quietly distant from tour groups, Beşiktaş has several 5-star resorts where many rooms face the Bosphorus; the bistros, bars, and pool are meters from the water; and boat trips and dinner cruises can easily be arranged. Best Area in Istanbul for Transport: Sirkeci Geographically central and within the northern section of the old city, Sirkeci is along a very handy metro line. It heads south to the historic district of Sultanahmet (which is also within walking distance), across the water to the shopping district of Taksim, and further up the coast to the bistros and museums facing the Bosphorus Strait at Kabataş. Also from Sirkeci, ferries head in all directions across the strait and trains service the suburbs where tourists very rarely venture. Safest Areas in Istanbul: Maçka and Nişantaşi No areas within Istanbul are particularly unsafe but take the usual precautions – especially around the crowded streets, markets, metro, trams, and ferries where opportunistic petty crimes like bag-snatching and pick-pocketing are not uncommon. Not part of the usual tourist areas, but still convenient to amenities and attractions, are the leafy residential districts of Maçka and Nişantaşi. They offer upmarket shopping, vast views across the city, and well-lit streets. And always be aware of any political unrest which may result in mass protests in areas like Taksim Square, and of unscrupulous salesmen, especially in shops selling carpets and rugs in the old city.

Do I need PCR if I am vaccinated to enter Turkey?

Travel During the Pandemic On March 1, 2021 Turkish Government announced a four-tier system on local COVID-19 related restrictions. Cities are divided into 4 different risk groups: low (blue), medium (yellow), high (orange), and very high (red) based on infection and vaccination rates.

To view the map, please visit the following page: https://covid19.saglik.gov.tr/ As of March 15, all passengers arriving in Turkey (except the transit passengers) are now required to fill out Travel Entry Form at http://register.health.gov.tr within the last 72 hours before their flights. Starting September 6, intercity travel by plane, bus, train, or other public transportation will require proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test taken 48 hours prior to travel.

This requirement applies to individuals 18 years old and older. Travel using a private vehicle will not require proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test. Starting September 6, entry into establishments such as concerts, cinemas, theaters, and crowded events will require proof of vaccination, or a negative PCR test taken 48 hours prior to the event.

This requirement applies to individuals 18 years old and older. A vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result is required for entry to Turkey. COVID-19 control measures for air, land, and sea travel continue. Passengers arriving in Turkey will be required to complete an information form and will be checked for symptoms.

Anyone suspected of having COVID-19 will be transported to a hospital for examination or to a dormitory to self-isolate. If an individual on a particular aircraft/vehicle/vessel is found to have COVID-19, the information forms completed upon arrival will be used to identify others have been in contact with them; those individuals will then be subject to 14-day isolation/quarantine.     All air passengers arriving from a foreign country to get tested for COVID-19 infection no more than 3 days (72 hours) before their flight departs and to provide proof of the negative result or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 to the airline before boarding the flight.  On Monday, June 28, 2021, the Turkish Government announced the suspension of all flights (as of July 1) from Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka until further notice. Passengers who have been in Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka in the last 14 days must submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to entering Turkey and undergo a mandatory 14 day quarantine. Passengers will be given a PCR test on the 14th day of quarantine and, if the test result is negative, they will be released from quarantine.  If the PCR test result is positive, passengers will be placed in isolation and tested again after 14 days.

Passengers who traveled to Turkey from Afghanistan and Pakistan or who have been in these countries in the last 14 days must undergo quarantine for 10 days.  Passengers will be given a PCR test on the 7th day of quarantine and, if the test result is negative, they will be released from quarantine.  If the PCR test result is still positive, measures will be taken in accordance with the Ministry of Health COVID-19 guidelines.

Passengers who are subject to mandatory quarantines may quarantine in dormitories, as well as in other accommodation facilities serving as quarantine hotels, as determined by the Governorships. The procedures and principles regarding the quarantine hotels, accommodation fees, transfers of these travelers from the border gates, etc., will be determined and announced by the Governorships.

Turkish citizens who cannot present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before entry through the border gates will be allowed to go to their residence after taking a PCR or rapid antigen test at the border gates. Those with positive test results will be isolated in their residences. Passengers departing from the United Kingdom, Iran, Egypt and Singapore will be required to submit a negative PCR test result which has to be made maximum 72 hours before entry.

When entering Turkey from countries not included above, passengers will not be required to submit a negative PCR test result if they submit a document issued by the relevant country’s official authorities stating that they have been vaccinated at least 14 days before entrance to Turkey,

If passengers departing from these countries cannot submit a vaccine certificate, submission of a negative PCR test result  taken within 72 hours before entering  Turkey or negative rapid antigen test result taken within 48 hours before entering  Turkey will be deemed sufficient.    As of June 28, 2021, direct flights from Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are suspended:     All passengers traveling through another country who have been in Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka in the last 14 days will  be quarantined in places determined by the governorships for a period of 14 days following their entry into Turkey.

PCR tests will be performed on the 14th day of quarantine and those who have negative test results will be released from quarantine at the end of the 14 day period. The treatment of those who have a positive PCR test will be carried out in accordance with the Ministry of Health COVID 19 guidelines; the quarantine of those who do not have the PCR test will be completed after 14 days.  Travel Form: https://register.health.gov.tr/ Before planning a trip to Turkey, please check the current situation at Turkish borders concerning travel restrictions via the website of the Turkish Representations,

Is it safe to travel to Turkey as a woman?

Should You Go On A Solo Trip To Turkey As A Female Traveler? – Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers guide Yes, yes, and yes again. Turkey is safe for female solo travelers, A solo trip to Turkey is no more dangerous than visiting any other country by yourself. You need to use your common sense when solo traveling in Turkey as you would anywhere else in the world.

Is it safe to visit Cairo 2022?

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Reconsider travel to Egypt due to terrorism. Exercise increased caution in Egypt due to the Embassy’s limited ability to assist dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained. Do not travel to:

The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to terrorism. The Western Desert due to terrorism, Egyptian border areas due to military zones.

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Egypt. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, and have targeted diplomatic facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, western businesses, restaurants, resorts, and local government facilities.

Terrorists have conducted attacks in urban areas, including in Cairo, despite the heavy security presence. Terrorists have targeted religious sites, to include mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling to these locations. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Egypt, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR).

For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices, Local law prohibits protesting or demonstrating without a permit. Being near anti-government protests can draw scrutiny from Egyptian police and security forces.U.S.

• Citizens have been detained for participating in protests and for posting content on social media perceived as critical of Egypt or its allies. The U.S.
• Embassy may have a limited ability to provide consular services to dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens.
• Egyptian law considers dual citizens to be Egyptian citizens.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Egypt. If you decide to travel to Egypt:

Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country specific COVID-19 information. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter, Review the Country Security Report for Egypt. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist,

Sinai Peninsula – Level 4: Do Not Travel The Sinai Peninsula remains a particularly dangerous area, with frequent attacks on security forces and civilians. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens anywhere in the Sinai Peninsula as U.S.

What is forbidden in Turkey?

It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. You should carry your passport or residence permit at all times. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the Turkish authorities may stop members of the public to conduct ID checks. There’s also a number of police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey.

1. You should co-operate with officials conducting checks.
2. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places.
3. Smoking is restricted in some outdoor areas where cultural, artistic, sports or entertainment activities are held.
4. Turkey has strict laws against the use, possession or trafficking of illegal drugs.

If you are convicted of any of these offences, you can expect to receive a heavy fine or a prison sentence of 4 to 24 years. The possession, sale and export of antiquities is against the law and carries a prison sentence of 5 to 12 years as well as a substantial fine.

• Some historical items found at local markets and in antique shops can be sold within Turkey but are illegal to export.
• You should confirm the legal requirements before considering a purchase or returning home with an antique/historical item.
• Dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine to avoid offence.

Do not take photographs near military or official installations. Ask for permission before photographing people. Homosexuality is legal in Turkey. However, many parts of Turkey are socially conservative and public displays of affection may lead to unwelcome attention.

Can you wear shorts in Istanbul?

In the City – In Turkish cities, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. There is no problem wearing shorts for comfort, except when you visit mosques, As for Turks, most of them will be wearing “smart casual” clothes: sleeved summer dresses or sleeved top and skirt for women, short-sleeved shirt and long trousers for men.

How many days should I stay in Istanbul?

How Many Days Is Enough To Visit Istanbul? Istanbul, a vibrant cultural hub, is brimming with must-see sites and monuments! So, how long should you stay in Istanbul? Give the city, at least three days if you’re coming for the first time. Three days in Istanbul will enable you to see the city’s most renowned sights — but anticipate a jam-packed schedule if you want to make the most of your time there! Istanbul, sandwiched between Asia and Europe, is one of the world’s most fascinating tourist attractions.

Is Istanbul safer than London?

We make no claims that Turkey is the safest country in the world, because it’s not. Among the non-pocket-sized countries in the world, that honour apparently goes to Japan. While any form of crime, especially violent, is heinous and cannot be excused in any way, a short discussion follows of the different types we hope you will not encounter while in Turkey.

This piece is in three sections: crimes specifically directed at foreigners, the background “regular” crime environment, and terrorism.,1. CRIMES AGAINST FOREIGN TOURISTS “Scams, yes. Violence, no.” would be the shortest answer possible here. (Yes, that applies to Americans and Saudis too. We don’t care whether you’re from Uganda or the US, from Sweden or Saudi Arabia.) Contrary to depictions in some (admittedly amusing) media outside Turkey, though passport control is indeed split in two, one for Turks and one for everyone else, after passport control foreign tourists are not then separated further into “greet with pitchforks”, “meh” and “lay out the magic carpet” lines and issued the relevant wristbands.

(The Japanese and some other East Asian countries may be an exception. By their very presence, they tend not only to lower crime but also improve manners.) If a Turk is polite and helpful, and apparently they generally are, he will be polite and helpful regardless of your nationality.

Or if he is like me and you’ve somehow strayed into his local supermarket in a usually non-touristy part of Istanbul and are dawdling in the bakery section, and even after having been asked whether you need any help you still spend too much time deciding what sweet baked good you want to buy and therefore hold up the queue, you will be asked to hop to it, regardless of what passport you are carrying.

Never get between a Turk and his pastries! Anecdotal evidence suggests the most common form of violence against tourists is by other tourists, generally after the consumption of copious amounts of vodka or mind-shattering amounts of beer. Truly, given the number of tourists that visit Turkey every year, the incidence of tourist-related violent crime is so low as to be practically non-existent; petty theft is uncommon; but beware scams.

2. “REGULAR” CRIME VIOLENT CRIME Covering murder, physical assault with or without a weapon, etc this should be the least of your worries. While noting the alarming rate at which husbands and wives seem to kill each other, we do claim that apart from violence inflicted within the family, violent crimes are not that common.

That applies to violence directed at (unrelated) women too, but we will address that in a separate post. Football hooliganism is an exception. Fortunately, up to now, we have been spared the horror of mass shootings at concerts or at places of education.

• However, every large city has a seedy side, and violent crime (outside of the family) generally originates there.
• Therefore, within Turkey, we would argue that the only place you really need to worry about is Istanbul, and the statistics for Istanbul show that it is a safer place than New York (245 and 335 murders respectively in 2016, versus populations of 15.0m in the Istanbul metropolitan district and 20.3m in the New York MSA).

Istanbul is, unfortunately, somewhat more prone to murders than Greater London (110 murders in 2016, for a population of 8.8m). Other than murder, violent crime is relatively rare. A violent mugging is front page news even in Istanbul. Outside Istanbul, violent crime rates tend to drop dramatically.

Generally, the smaller the city or town, the less likely that town will see violent crime. By that I mean not just in absolute terms, but per head of population too. So much so that visitors to the resorts on the Aegean coast can probably disregard the issue entirely. And remember what we noted before: murder and violent crimes tend to occur between spouses.

So unless you’re married to a Turk, you probably don’t need to worry anywhere, even in Istanbul. CARJACKING, KIDNAPPING Not a thing in Turkey, though a few kidnappings have been known in the southeast of the country. NON-VIOLENT CRIME Contrary to violent crime, non-violent crime – mainly involving burglary and shoplifting – is endemic.

• Purses have been known to be snatched.
• Pockets are picked.
• And scams are run.
• See https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293969-i367-k11602934-The_Let_s_have_a_drink_scam-Turkey.html ) So keep your wits about you.
• Again, the smaller the town, the less likely you’ll encounter something like this, though the drop-off rate is not as precipitous as for violent crime.

FOOTBALL MATCHES Turkish football fans are fanatical. While football matches (especially between the larger clubs) do not always involve some form of injury, the incidence of violence is too high to ignore. The Government has vowed to eradicate this problem, but it will require a Herculean effort.

In the meantime, do not stroll outside football stadiums as fans are coming out after a match, especially in Istanbul and especially if you’re wearing a combination of black and white, red and yellow or blue and yellow.,3. TERRORISM Turkey has an ongoing problem with terrorism. Fortunately, this is generally confined to the southeast of the country, generally close to the Iraqi border.

While a border wall has recently been built along the Syrian border – a wall that is being extended along the Iraqi and Iranian borders too – it is too early to assess its impact. Readers interested in seeing the relative impact of terrorism in the world would be advised to refer to this map: https://storymaps.esri.com/stories/terrorist-attacks/,

Personally, I think that the Turkish security forces are doing a rather good job, especially given what’s going on just beyond our southern borders. (Zoom in to see what’s going on in Turkey and your own country. You can also use the slider at the bottom of the map to change the period you view.) As for the civil war in Syria, while the general advice is to avoid border areas, I’d go so far as to say that unless you’re planning to parasail along the Syrian border, you should be fine.

In short: don’t be lulled into a dreamlike, dazed sense of security, but there’s no need to keep looking over your shoulder either. Unless I’m standing behind you in the bakery queue.

Is Turkey a high risk country?

The South Korean government has added Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Turkey to its list of COVID-19 high risk countries. Other countries already on the list are Myanmar, Philippines, South Africa, Russia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Uzbekistan and the U.K.

1. Personnel onboard who joined their vessel from high risk countries should submit a negative COVID-19 certificate to Korean quarantine authority through their agency before arrival at a Korean port.
2. Negative COVID-19 PCR certificates are valid ONLY when issued at one of the designated facilities that Korean government assigned at high risk countries within 72hours of vessel’s departure from crew joining port.

For further details and updates, as well as information about operations in South Korea, contact the GAC Singapore Hub Agency Centre at If quoting any content from Hot Port News, please cite GAC Hot Port News as the source.

Is Istanbul airport layover 2022 Safe?

In 2022, Istanbul is considered to be a safe (ish) destination.

Why is Turkey a declining destination?

According to Nikkei Asian Review, the country is losing its popularity as the recent terrorist attacks, last year’s attempted coup and other political challenges have kept travelers away.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey as a woman?

Should You Go On A Solo Trip To Turkey As A Female Traveler? – Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers guide Yes, yes, and yes again. Turkey is safe for female solo travelers, A solo trip to Turkey is no more dangerous than visiting any other country by yourself. You need to use your common sense when solo traveling in Turkey as you would anywhere else in the world.

Is Turkey a high risk country?

The South Korean government has added Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Turkey to its list of COVID-19 high risk countries. Other countries already on the list are Myanmar, Philippines, South Africa, Russia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Uzbekistan and the U.K.

• Personnel onboard who joined their vessel from high risk countries should submit a negative COVID-19 certificate to Korean quarantine authority through their agency before arrival at a Korean port.
• Negative COVID-19 PCR certificates are valid ONLY when issued at one of the designated facilities that Korean government assigned at high risk countries within 72hours of vessel’s departure from crew joining port.

For further details and updates, as well as information about operations in South Korea, contact the GAC Singapore Hub Agency Centre at If quoting any content from Hot Port News, please cite GAC Hot Port News as the source.