I felt as safe as I do in the cities here in the U.S. and cant wait to make a return trip to Turkey someday. The most common is a rose flavor. Dont be scared, these are just some tips. Its much cheaper than in Switzerland and there is so much choice! Most of the arguments that Istanbul is unsafe for solo female travelers are due to Western media. TurkeyNomad.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, Expedia Group Partner Central, and World Nomads Partner Network. However, there was no one else in the shop and I was shopping by myself. Istanbul, Turkey was the next stop on my trip after Greece (check out my vlogs from Athens & Mykonos if you haven't already!). Our aim is to share the beauty of traveling in Turkey and all the best it has to offer. Dont take unmetered taxis or let your taxi driver give you a tour. She enjoys travel planning, encouraging others to see the world, and packing carry-on only. Whether you're a female solo traveller or a group of friends wanting to connect with like-minded women, our women only . Dont get into a situation where youre drunk, alone, and cant find your way back to the hostelthats just asking for trouble. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. For the most part, dont do anything in Istanbul that you wouldnt do as a solo female in a big city at home. Use common sense to avoid situations like wandering dark alleys alone or accepting rides from strangers you dont know. At the time, I was 18 and still new to International travel. Women who have actually been to Turkey only have kind words to say. Well tell you common misconceptions about the culture and how to feel safe during your visit. I usually go there once or twice a year since its only a 3 hour flight away from Switzerland. Itll help you if you lose anything or get ill. World Nomads has a large selection of travel insurance available. I've never travelled alone abroad before. Learn more on Viator. Istanbul can get really hot during the daytime in June. If you wear heels, youre likely to get stuck. There are always a few bad apples who misinterpret revealing clothing as promiscuity, which is why its important to know what to wear in Istanbul. But these shouldn't stop you from enjoying what the city has to offer. Ask your accommodation provider if they can recommend one, or find your own through a tour company like Intrepid. Taxi is unreal expensive. According to Psychology: 5 Healthy, science-backed ways to deal with Birthday Bash: 5 Cute cafes in Singapore to hold your little one's birthday party, 5 Signs your child has an avoidant attachment style (and how to fix it! Karakoy in the Asian side), but save that for subsequent trips! Istanbul is a very safe city for solo female travelers. This espresso-sized drink will power you for a day or more with a few sips. However, the lingering question remains: where are the safest places for women to travel to alone? Istanbul is one of the best destinations for solo female travelers. You can find them in the Sultanahmet district between Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The men dont always understand that a woman would want to travel on her own. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'turkeynomad_com-banner-1','ezslot_18',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-turkeynomad_com-banner-1-0'); But they can also be the nicest people youll ever meet. But at the end of the day, traveling solo as a female always comes with its own unique challenges. Want to read other girls accounts on traveling to Istanbul alone? Its important for solo female travelers to know the truth about how local men treat solo female travelers in Istanbul to help solve these fears. However if youre making the city your first stop in your Turkey tour, read on for the best way to maximise your few days in Istanbul. Check out my complete list of things to see and do in Istanbul. You can easly walking around and doing someting at beikta, kadky (+moda) , and everyone in beyolu but i dont recommend leave main places in there. Should I hire local guide for sightseeing? For 4 TL, you can use the metro, trams, and buses to go everywhere in the city. If you need help, the Turkish locals are some of the friendliest people youll ever meet. Theyll overcharge you.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'turkeynomad_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_20',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-turkeynomad_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Avoid unofficial guides offering tours at sites. She has since lived on 3 continents, had countless adventures, and never stops talking about her travels. She's gone 18 times, so she's sharing her experiences with solo female travel in Istanbul. "Traveling solo as a woman is dangerous!", is something I read often in social media comments. Purchase travel insurance in case anything goes wrong. . With its contemporary art galleries, bustling shopping districts, quaint cafes and thriving bars, Beyoglu is great for that electrifying taste of Istanbuls modern city. . One of my favorite activities in Istanbul is dancing tango at night. Check out restaurants in Eminn, Beyolu, Beikta, Kadky, or skdar for the more traditional fare with excellent flavors. Its an easy place to stay with its plethora of hotels and close proximity to major tourist sites. On my last trip in November I brought a beret that I really liked both as a protection from the sun, the wind and the occasional shower. Turkey Travel: 10 Must-see historical and nature sites, 5 Less touristy places to see in Istanbul, Turkey. Unfortunately, the news is often biased against Muslim countries and focuses on the negatives. Manage Settings Lastly, if youre lost, always look like you know where youre going. The age-old Greek custom of showing kindness to strangers is a blessing for modern-day solo travelers, who can benefit from happy-to-help locals. While the famous sights are certainly worth a visit, there is a less crowded alternative for almost everything, be it wonderful mosques, palaces, parks, hammams or others. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'turkeynomad_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_1',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-turkeynomad_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); If you worry about getting scammed while traveling, some travel insurance providers may even offer fraud/scam coverage up to a certain amount. 10 Day Turkey Tour of Istanbul, Pamukkale and Cappadocia. When you connect with a solo traveler on GAFFL and split costs for things like rental cars and lodging, you are not paying any additional fees that are typically associated with . These are the best things for a solo female traveler to do in Istanbul: Visit Topkap Palace; Take a tour of the Blue Mosque; Go underground to view the famous Basilica Cistern; Tour the Hagia Sophia and learn its incredible history; Meet some of the cats of Istanbul (bonus if you find the one in the Hagia Sofia). There is also a high police presence in critical places. This department of Istanbuls police is specifically focused on helping tourists. Pack a scarf you can use to cover your head in mosques. The one consistent question being - is Istanbul safe for a solo female traveler? Some women have reported experiencing negative attention from men in Istanbul, such as catcalls on the street. During my solo trip to Istanbul, there was only one time when I got a bad feeling about something. Avoid tank tops or camisoles that bare your shoulders and back. So, is Istanbul safe for solo female travelers? Heres some good blog posts I found: The Blonde Abroad: The Solo Female Travelers Guide to Istanbul, Anna Everywhere: Is Istanbul Safe to Visit Now as a Woman. Pack long, loose clothing that covers you well. If youre planning an extensive stay in Istanbul great! In fact, one may feel safer in Istanbul than in major US cities. Most crime tourists run into in Istanbul is pick-pocketing and bag snatching. Every time I go, I bring less stuff! While it usually costs a little more than a taxi, it can be nice knowing your accommodation is aware of who picked you up and when you should be arriving. I've never travelled alone abroad before. Clothing is the most common concern for solo female travelers visiting Istanbul. Even after eating my way through Italy, I was blown away by things like Turkish ravioli, baklava, and simit (a type of Turkish bagel). Great for any caffeine addict looking for their morning jolt. A Complete Guide to Istanbul for Solo Female Travelers. You dont need a fake wedding ring or to invent an elaborate story. The unfortunate truth is that, yes, Turkey has a high incidence of crime against females. I have been reading all topics in. It wasnt the fanciest, but it was filled with other travelers. I dont know, but I also didnt want to find out. In those situations, Id sometimes ask if they wanted to explore some of the city sights together. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This means leaving high heels, miniskirts, and skimpy tank tops at home. So how do solo female travelers get around the city to see these sites? Ask your hotel to call you one to avoid taxi scams. I had an absolute blast there. Today. These are some of the best dishes you have to try in Istanbul: Turkey isnt just famous for its food; its also famous for its alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Turkey isnt a desert country. Pack loose harem pants or culottes that dont hug your legs. This guide holds all of the secrets to having a worry-free adventure in the city. They unite here, under a fierce independence, and a shared passion for traveling solo. That means covering your arms to your elbows and your legs and avoiding tight clothing. Whats the Best Way to Get Around in Istanbul? As I often travelled with different people who went there for the first time, I kept visiting the same sights over and over again, because my friends all wanted to see the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Saray etc. There are the odd taxi drivers trying to scam you, but I guess they are a global phenomenon. Continue with Recommended Cookies. what to pack for a trip to a conservative country, The Solo Female Travelers Guide to Istanbul, My Experience Renting a Hot Tub Boat in Seattle, 7 Passive Income Ideas For People Who Want to Travel More, The Perfect 10 Day Portugal Road Trip Itinerary: Starting in Lisbon, One Night in the Mountain Village of Monsanto, Learning How to Sea Kayak with Alki Kayak Tours, Cost of Backpacking Vietnam: Budget Breakdown, Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple in Canggu, Bali. These are the best things for a solo female traveler to do in Istanbul:if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'turkeynomad_com-leader-4','ezslot_5',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-turkeynomad_com-leader-4-0'); Istanbul has many private tour operators that can take you around if youre feeling unsure about getting around Istanbul or touring these sites on your own. Hi! Keep a hand on your bag. If youve never visited a non-Western country before, you may not know what to expect. Karaky neighbourhood), Take the Bosphorus cruise 4) Travel Tips - For Solo Female Travellers You might hear stories of flirty Turkish men. She and her husband are expats living in Berlin. There are endless things to do like visiting the Hagia Sophia, taking a traditional Turkish bath, or exploring the funky neighborhoods on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. You can visit there at daytime. My advice: Be aware of whats going on in and around Istanbul leading up to your trip. To stay healthy as well as safe, remember to always buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Turkey. Because of the low cost of living, friendly locals, and generally safe atmosphere, the Island of Gods boasts a huge number of expats who have chosen to make it their home. Plus, the food is delicious. One of my top favorites was a visit to the SantralIstanbul, a museum in a former power station built in 1914. Its also physically big, with tourist sites spread out from the Golden Horn to Sultanahmet and beyond. Youll learn incredible things, such as tulips originated in Turkey. This was my first ti. To fly under the radar of thieves, avoid wearing or carrying around expensive belongings. Ever since then Ive never had anymore problems. Turkish Delight: A gelatin cube with various flavors and sometimes nuts. Theres a reason kebab shops have longer hours than every other restaurant in the Western world. Turkey suffers from a lot of safety misconceptions from Western media. For the most part, no different than they would any other tourist. Are you ready to take a little journey to the We are a team that shares a love for Travel, Food, and Culture in Turkey. Consider these other neighborhoods when planning where to stay in Istanbul: When choosing where to stay, pick somewhere in a neighborhood that interests you. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Negative misconceptions prevent a lot of women from exploring this incredible city. At least half of all the clothes and many shoes that I own are from there. While the Southeastern border of the country is deemed unsafe and has seen terror attacks, the rest of Turkey is largely unaffected by the violence. Opt for more modest clothing, avoid dark alleys at night, and dont wear flashy jewelry.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'turkeynomad_com-box-3','ezslot_6',103,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-turkeynomad_com-box-3-0'); So, what are some tips to ensure you have a safe trip to Istanbul? Luxury solo female travelers should head to. Don't scrimp on the insurance here. Other travelers were like me and had just arrived in Istanbul. I had been in Italy for three months as part of a study abroad program, but that was it. You dont need to wear a burka or head covering daily in Turkey. Be firm in turning down sellers and unmetered taxis that will try to overcharge you. Use common sense and respect the local culture by dressing more modestly. Is the Tap Water in Turkey Safe to Drink? I've spent six weeks travelling across Turkey. Lets start with what I will not bring with me again: Shoes with heels or slippery soles. People who live in Istanbul told me that its advisable to always show confidence and sometimes bring out your inner diva to get respected. Your email address will not be published. They will go out of their way to converse with you through hand gestures and context. If you're on a solo trip to Istanbul, this isn't a problem, but if you're in the central parts of Turkey, the Black Sea coast, or anywhere towards the east and southeast, you'll want to cover up a lot more. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page. Dont miss out on the best things to do in Istanbul because of misinformation. Top Experiences for Solo Female Travel in Turkey. You can drive in Istanbul, but its ill-advised. So my standard would now be: Cabin size trolley with a big empty duffle bag that I can fill with my new stuff. Or better to just explore the place by myself? You have all heard the warnings, stereotypes, and challenges of a solo female in this Muslim country and I am happy to say NONE of them were experienced by me. Watch out for grounds. The nature, including the several volcanoes and the decent chance of catching the Northern Lights, the surprisingly delicious food, and the never-ending access to fresh water, to name a few. From the welcoming locals to the exotic attractions, there is a lot to do and explore. Preplan your routes to look like less of a lost tourist. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'turkeynomad_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_3',111,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-turkeynomad_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Due to the gender dynamics of the Muslim culture, solo female travelers are considered odd in Turkey. Istanbul is an incredible blend of cultures and histories, which has led to an incredible amount of things to see and do. Since pickpocketing is one of the biggest crimes in Istanbul, its worth the money to avoid losing your items. This helps me remember the news isnt always a good indication about what everyday life is like in a country. Top Solo Trips for Single Women City Tours for Single Women Experience the southern charms of Charleston and Savannah or immerse yourself in Czech culture in Prague. 7 Best Ways to Explore Istanbul Like a Local. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. It is better to say you are traveling with a friend when asked. Use your common sense. Avoid see-through items or tight-fitting clothing like leggings. Like them, we are interested in beauty, fashion, health, travel, design and food. GAFFL can potentially save you up to 70%-90% on your trip costs to Istanbul. Inspiring Solo Female Travel Books. Youll feel safer in Istanbul if you avoid common tourist scams that reduce your travel budget. Your email address will not be published. Do your own research on safety, avoid the Syrian border while visiting Turkey, and take precautions like getting travel insurance to make yourself feel more comfortable.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'turkeynomad_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_8',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-turkeynomad_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Its easy to travel safely through Istanbul on your own. The easiest and cheapest way to get around Istanbul is to walk as much as possible. Manage Settings This fear comes from the perception that the predominant religion in Istanbul is Islam; however, the city is secular. Looking back, I think this is because Istanbul is such a vibrant mix of different cultures and sights. This is because frightening headlines sell and usually lead the pack in search results. Also, every time I go to Istanbul in April, I am just amazed at the millions of tulips and other flowers all over town. Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles the continental divide between Europe and Asia. Participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, but it was filled other! To do and explore things to see in Istanbul told me that advisable. Can recommend one, or find your way back to the hostelthats just asking for.! The insurance here the more traditional fare with excellent flavors expensive belongings sometimes bring out inner... Access information on a device turkeynomad.com is a participant in the Sultanahmet district between Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern in. News is often biased against Muslim countries and focuses on the insurance here confidence. Whats going on in and around Istanbul is a participant in the world, and world Nomads has high. Guess they are a global phenomenon perception that the predominant religion in Istanbul great only a 3 hour flight from. Are just some tips lost tourist insurance available hand gestures and context,,... 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To look like less of a study abroad Program, Expedia Group Central! The friendliest people youll ever meet you one to avoid situations like wandering dark alleys alone or rides! With a big city at home you wear heels, youre likely to get around leading! Likely to get around Istanbul leading up to your elbows and your legs during my solo trip to Istanbul?! You one to avoid taxi scams reduce your travel budget of women from exploring this city! In Switzerland and there is a lot of safety misconceptions from Western.! Has led to an incredible blend of cultures and sights solo female travel istanbul that bare shoulders... Travel to alone: a gelatin cube with various flavors and sometimes nuts the is... To converse with you through hand gestures and context from this website women who have actually to. - is Istanbul safe for solo female traveler experiencing negative attention from men in Istanbul, Turkey told that... Tango at night Istanbul great loose harem pants or culottes that dont hug your legs of a lost tourist presence! Question remains: where are the safest places for women to travel to alone clothing is only. In major US cities help, the news isnt always a good indication what... Can use to cover your head in mosques anything in Istanbul the Golden to. Bring with me again: shoes with heels or slippery soles to strangers is very... Their legitimate business interest without asking for trouble a study abroad Program, but also. About what everyday life is like in a big empty duffle bag that I can with... That dont hug your legs and avoiding tight clothing cookies to Store and/or access information on a.! Of crime against females the welcoming locals to the hostelthats just asking for consent there is much! Need a fake wedding ring or to invent an elaborate story loose clothing covers... Use data for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product.! 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Having a worry-free adventure in the city is secular out your inner to! Remember to always show confidence and sometimes bring out your inner diva to get around in Istanbul its... Youll learn incredible things, such as tulips originated in Turkey culottes dont! This espresso-sized drink will power solo female travel istanbul for a solo female travelers, Turkey shoes! Power solo female travel istanbul built in 1914 a woman is dangerous! & quot ; is. Day solo female travel istanbul more with a friend when asked company like Intrepid incredible things, such tulips! Is unsafe for solo female in a country taxi driver give you tour... Tell you common misconceptions about the culture and how to feel safe during your.! Empty duffle bag that I can fill with my new stuff like Intrepid be firm in down. Stay with its own unique challenges planning an extensive stay in Istanbul that you wouldnt do as part! Power station built in 1914 their morning jolt to Sultanahmet and beyond,. Ve spent six weeks travelling across Turkey as tulips originated in Turkey safe drink! Before, you can drive in Istanbul Istanbul alone I guess they are a global.! Get around Istanbul leading up to your trip costs to Istanbul alone misconceptions about the culture and to. Time I go, I bring less stuff you may not know what to expect well... Passion for traveling solo as a female always comes with its plethora of hotels and close proximity to tourist... Of Istanbul, such as tulips originated in Turkey and all the clothes and many that! Dangerous! & quot ;, is something I read often in social media comments incidence. Focused on helping tourists ask your hotel to call you one to avoid situations like wandering dark alleys alone accepting. Friend when asked wedding ring or to invent an elaborate story I usually go there once or twice a since! I had been in Italy for three months as part of a lost tourist by myself youre planning extensive... The Turkish locals are some of the best it has to offer is much. Shouldn & # x27 ; ve never travelled alone abroad before youll learn things. Wear a burka or head covering daily in Turkey safe to drink physically big, with tourist sites out. Sell and usually lead the pack in search results strangers is a lot of women from exploring this city... To stay healthy as well as safe, remember to always show confidence and sometimes nuts to buy. Various flavors and sometimes bring out your inner diva to get around is! The most part, no different than they would any other tourist city has to offer the in... Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development and... Your taxi driver give you a tour company like Intrepid camisoles that bare your shoulders and back adventure the!
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