Is Istanbul safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Turkey

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Turkey at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, a country-level advisory that does not single out Istanbul specifically, dated June 2026.
• The UK FCDO notes a high global threat of terrorism and states that Istanbul has been the site of past attacks, including a 2026 shooting near a consulate building and a 2022 explosion in the city center.
• Demonstrations occur regularly in Istanbul and can turn violent, with police response sometimes including tear gas and water cannons, so travelers should avoid protests and leave the area if one develops.
• Street robbery and pickpocketing are described as common in major tourist areas, so travelers should keep belongings secure at all times.
• Some banks and exchanges reportedly refuse 50 and 100 dollar bills due to counterfeiting concerns, and travelers are cautioned against accepting food or drinks from strangers because of spiking risks, as well as methanol poisoning from illegally produced spirits.
• Among 4.27 million British visitors in 2025, 29 sexual assault cases were reported to consular staff, mostly in coastal resort areas during the tourist season and often involving someone met earlier in the day.
• Travelers should use only registered, metered taxis or app-based bookings, noting the registration number before getting in, rather than accepting rides from unofficial drivers.