Is Istanbul Safe? Crime Rates Dropped as Tourists Flock In

When Sarah and I first mentioned our plans to visit Istanbul, you should have seen the looks on our families' faces. It was like we'd announced we were planning a picnic in a lion's den. "But isn't it dangerous?" they asked, visions of whirling dervishes replaced by whirling news headlines. Meanwhile, our more adventurous friends couldn't stop gushing about the city's magic, as if we were about to step into a real-life Aladdin's cave (minus the lurking thieves, hopefully).

So, which is it? Is Istanbul a treacherous labyrinth of narrow alleys and pickpockets, or a treasure trove of culture just waiting to be discovered? Well, buckle up, because Sarah and I spent a week navigating this transcontinental metropolis, and we're about to spill the Turkish coffee beans on what it's really like.

As a 45-year-old travel writer (yes, I'm admitting my age - goodbye, "29 forever" dreams) with two decades of globe-trotting under my belt, I've developed a pretty good nose for sniffing out both danger and deliciousness. And let me tell you, Istanbul served up plenty of the latter with just a dash of the former to keep things interesting.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we dive into our kebab-fueled adventures, let's look at the three key factors we used to gauge Istanbul's safety. Think of it as our pre-flight checklist, but instead of making sure we packed enough underwear, we're making sure we won't end up starring in our own version of "Midnight Express" (spoiler alert: we didn't).

01- State Department Travel Advisory

First stop on our safety tour: the U.S. State Department website. Now, I know what you're thinking - "West, you party animal, you actually read government websites?" Yes, yes I do. And let me tell you, it's a thrilling read right up there with watching paint dry.

The State Department uses a 1-4 rating system:

1. Exercise normal precautions (white)
2. Exercise increased caution (yellow)
3. Reconsider travel (orange)
4. Do not travel (red)

As of July 2024, Turkey, including Istanbul, is sitting pretty at Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution). The main concerns? Terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Now, before you cancel your Turkish delight orders, remember that many popular European destinations often hover around Level 2 as well.

The advisory suggests staying alert in tourist areas and avoiding demonstrations. It's like they're telling us to keep our wits about us and not start a revolution. I think we can manage that, right Sarah?

State Department Check: PASS (but keep your eyes open)

02- Latest News

Next up, we dove into the latest news about Istanbul. No, not celebrity gossip about Turkish soap opera stars (though I hear they're quite dramatic). We're talking about current events that might impact safety.

The good news? Istanbul saw a significant drop in crime rates in early 2024. Crimes against individuals were down 10%, and property crimes dropped by 21%. It's like the whole city collectively decided to be on its best behavior.

We also found out that Istanbul is pouring resources into earthquake preparedness. While that might sound scary, it actually made us feel better. It's like knowing your pilot has extra training in emergency landings - you hope you never need it, but it's reassuring to know it's there.

One thing that caught our eye was the implementation of a new tourism rental law on January 1, 2024. It requires licenses for short-term rentals, which should help ensure safer accommodations for visitors.

The cherry on top? Istanbul hosted nearly 17.5 million tourists in 2023, becoming the world's most-visited city. That's a lot of people voting with their feet (and their wallets) that Istanbul is worth the trip.

Latest News Check: PASS (with flying colors)

03- Community Forums

Finally, we turned to the true experts: fellow travelers. We scoured TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads, looking for the good, the bad, and the "you won't believe what happened to me in the Grand Bazaar."

The consensus? Most travelers felt safe in Istanbul, especially in tourist areas. Many compared it favorably to other major European cities. One TripAdvisor user even said, "Istanbul is very safe. Just as safe as Paris or lots of other European cities."

Of course, there were the usual warnings about pickpockets in crowded areas and taxi scams (more on that later). But overall, the vibe was positive. It was like reading reviews for a rollercoaster - a few people might feel queasy, but most come off with a big grin and ready to go again.

Community Forum Check: PASS (with a side of "use common sense")

First Hand Experience in Istanbul

Alright, now for the juicy part. Did our research match our real-life experience? Did we end up in a Turkish prison, or did we fall head over heels for this city straddling two continents? Spoiler alert: we're not writing this from behind bars.

We spent a week exploring Istanbul, armed with our research, a healthy dose of common sense, and an unhealthy appetite for baklava. Here's our neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown:

Sultanahmet

Ah, Sultanahmet, the heart of old Istanbul. This is where you'll find the greatest hits of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, all within stumbling distance of each other.

We started our day bright and early at the Hagia Sophia. Pro tip: get there before opening time to beat the crowds. As we stood in line, I struck up a conversation with a local guide named Mehmet. He assured us that Sultanahmet was very safe, but to watch out for "friendly" strangers offering to be our guides. "If they're too pushy, just say 'teşekkürler' (thank you) and keep walking," he advised.

Inside the Hagia Sophia, we were too awestruck by the massive dome and intricate mosaics to worry about safety. The only danger was to my camera's memory card as I couldn't stop taking photos.

Next up was the Blue Mosque, just a short walk away. The square between the two landmarks was busy but not uncomfortably crowded. We saw plenty of police presence, which was reassuring without feeling overbearing.

For lunch, we followed Mehmet's recommendation to Matbah Restaurant, tucked away in a quiet street. The Ottoman cuisine was delicious, and we felt perfectly safe walking there and back.

As evening fell, we took a stroll through the neighborhood. The streets were well-lit, and there were still plenty of people about. We ended our night with a sunset view from the Seven Hills Restaurant. The rooftop terrace offered breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the city's minarets silhouetted against the sky.

Is Sultanahmet Safe? YES (just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas)

Beyoğlu

Next up on our Istanbul adventure: Beyoğlu, the beating heart of modern Istanbul. This neighborhood is where east meets west, old meets new, and Sarah meets her new obsession with Turkish street food.

We started our Beyoğlu exploration on Istiklal Street, the famous pedestrian boulevard. By day, it's a shopper's paradise and people-watcher's dream. By night, it transforms into party central. We felt safe both times, but it definitely gets more lively (and potentially pickpocket-y) after dark.

One evening, we decided to check out the rooftop bar at the Marmara Pera Hotel. The views were spectacular, the cocktails were delicious, and the only danger was to our wallets (those drinks weren't cheap!). We took an Uber back to our hotel afterward, more out of laziness than safety concerns.

During the day, we explored the side streets off Istiklal. We discovered charming cafes, quirky boutiques, and even a cat cafe (because if there's one thing Istanbul has in abundance, it's friendly felines). We never felt unsafe, but we did keep our valuables close in the busier areas.

One afternoon, we ventured to the iconic Galata Tower. The line was long, but the 360-degree views of Istanbul were worth it. As we waited, we chatted with a couple from Australia who had been in Istanbul for a month. "We feel safer here than in Sydney," they told us, which was both reassuring and a bit concerning for Sydney.

Is Beyoğlu Safe? YES (but stay alert in crowded areas and at night)

Kadıköy

Ready for a change of pace? Hop on a ferry and head to Kadıköy on the Asian side of Istanbul. It's like crossing continents without the jet lag!

The ferry ride itself was a highlight. Not only is it incredibly safe, but it also offers stunning views of the city skyline. Pro tip: grab a seat on the upper deck and have your camera ready.

Kadıköy feels more laid-back than the European side, with a hip, local vibe. We started our exploration at the famous Kadıköy Market. It's a feast for the senses, with vendors selling everything from fresh fish to handmade soaps. We felt perfectly safe wandering the market, though it did get crowded around lunchtime.

Speaking of lunch, we couldn't resist trying Çiya Sofrası, a restaurant recommended by many food bloggers. The owner, Musa Dağdeviren, is something of a culinary anthropologist, collecting recipes from all over Turkey. We felt safe and welcomed, and the only danger was to our waistlines.

After lunch, we strolled along the waterfront promenade. It was a sunny day, and locals were out in force, jogging, picnicking, and fishing. We even saw a group of older men playing tavla (backgammon) in a park. They invited us to join, and although we politely declined (our backgammon skills are non-existent), it was a lovely, safe interaction.

As evening approached, we checked out some of Kadıköy's trendy bars. The atmosphere was youthful and relaxed. We felt comfortable walking around after dark, though as always, we stayed aware of our surroundings.

Is Kadıköy Safe? YES (and it's a great escape from the tourist crowds)

Balat

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Next on our Istanbul safety tour: Balat, the up-and-coming district that's like the city's hipster cousin who studied art in Paris.

Balat is a photographer's dream, with its colorful houses, street art, and quirky cafes. We spent a morning wandering the hilly streets, cameras in hand. The neighborhood felt safe during the day, with plenty of locals going about their business.

We stopped for coffee at Cumbalı Kahve, a cafe housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman building. The owner, Ahmet, chatted with us about the neighborhood's transformation. "Ten years ago, nobody came to Balat," he told us. "Now, it's becoming popular with tourists, but it still feels local."

After coffee, we explored the antique shops and vintage stores that dot the area. We felt perfectly safe browsing, and the shopkeepers were friendly without being pushy.

For lunch, we tried Agora Meyhanesi, a traditional meyhane (tavern) recommended by a local friend. The food was delicious, and we felt like we were dining with family. The only danger was to our livers – the rakı (Turkish anise-flavored spirit) flowed freely!

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our hotel. While Balat felt safe during the day, we'd been advised that it's less lively at night and can feel a bit deserted. We decided to play it safe and not stick around after dark.

Is Balat Safe? YES during the day (but consider heading elsewhere for evening activities)

Ortaköy

Last but not least on our Istanbul neighborhood tour: Ortaköy, the picturesque waterfront district that's like the city's postcard-perfect little sister.

We arrived in Ortaköy on a Sunday morning, and the place was buzzing. The famous Ortaköy Mosque was our first stop. It's stunning, especially with the Bosphorus Bridge in the background. We felt safe taking photos and admiring the view, though the area was crowded with both locals and tourists.

After visiting the mosque, we wandered through the nearby arts and crafts market. It was a treasure trove of handmade jewelry, ceramics, and textiles. We kept a close eye on our belongings in the crowd, but we never felt unsafe.

Now, let's talk about Ortaköy's claim to fame: kumpir. These loaded baked potatoes are a local specialty, and the waterfront is lined with vendors selling them. We joined the queue at the busiest stand (always a good sign) and weren't disappointed. The only danger here was to our cholesterol levels!

As we enjoyed our kumpir by the water, a friendly local struck up a conversation. He offered to take our photo, which turned out great. However, he then tried to sell us a boat tour. We politely declined, remembering the advice about tourist scams. It was a good reminder that while most interactions are genuine, it's always wise to be a bit cautious.

We spent the afternoon exploring the narrow streets behind the main square. These felt safe but less touristy. We discovered a charming little teahouse where we stopped for çay (Turkish tea) and people-watching.

As evening fell, Ortaköy took on a romantic glow. The waterfront restaurants filled up, and street musicians began to play. We felt safe walking around after dark, though as always, we stayed aware of our surroundings.

Is Ortaköy Safe? YES (but be prepared for crowds and the occasional pushy vendor)

Istanbul by Foot and Uber

Now, let's talk about getting around this sprawling city. Is it safe to walk? Should you brave public transport? Will you end up starring in your own version of "Taken" if you hop in a taxi? (Spoiler alert: Liam Neeson can stay home, you'll be fine.)

Walking

Overall, we found Istanbul very walkable and felt safe on foot in most areas we visited. The sidewalks in tourist areas are generally in good condition, though they can get crowded, especially in places like Sultanahmet and Istiklal Street.

One thing to watch out for: traffic. Istanbulites drive with... let's call it enthusiasm. Always use pedestrian crossings and keep an eye out for scooters, which sometimes use the sidewalks as their personal speedways.

We did have one slightly unnerving experience walking back to our hotel in Beyoğlu late one night. A group of rowdy young men were heading our way, being loud and taking up the whole sidewalk. We simply crossed the street to avoid them, and that was that. It's the kind of situation you might encounter in any big city, and it was easily managed with a bit of common sense.

Uber and Taxis

For longer journeys, or when our feet were staging a revolt after a day of sightseeing, we often used Uber. It was reliable, affordable, and felt very safe. The drivers were friendly, and the app's tracking feature gave us extra peace of mind.

We did try a regular taxi once, from the airport to our hotel. Big mistake. The driver took a "scenic route" that doubled the fare. After that, we stuck to Uber or the BiTaksi app, which is like Uber but for official yellow taxis.

Here's when we chose Uber over walking:

• Airport transfers (always)
• Late-night returns to our hotel
• When going to areas we weren't familiar with
• That one time when Sarah's shoes turned out to be less comfortable than advertised

Is Getting Around Istanbul Safe? YES (but stick to Uber or official apps for taxis)

Recommended Itinerary

Now that we've covered safety in different neighborhoods, let's put it all together into a suggested 3-day itinerary that balances popular attractions with off-the-beaten-path experiences, all while keeping safety in mind.

Day 1: Classic Istanbul

• Morning: Start early at the Hagia Sophia to beat the crowds. Then visit the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Stick to official guides if you want one.
• Lunch: Try Matbah Restaurant for Ottoman cuisine in a safe, quieter area of Sultanahmet.
• Afternoon: Explore the Grand Bazaar. Keep valuables close and be prepared to haggle!
• Evening: Take a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus. Book through your hotel or a reputable company to ensure safety.

Day 2: Modern Istanbul

• Morning: Visit Istiklal Street in Beyoğlu. Explore the side streets but stay aware in crowded areas.
• Lunch: Try street food near Taksim Square. We felt safe eating here, but choose busy stalls with high turnover.
• Afternoon: Visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum. It's a safe, air-conditioned respite if you need a break from the hustle and bustle.
• Evening: Dinner at Mikla Restaurant. It's a splurge, but the views and food are worth it. Take an Uber here and back for convenience and safety.

Day 3: Local Istanbul

• Morning: Take the ferry to Kadıköy. It's safe and offers great views.
• Late Morning: Explore Kadıköy Market. It's busy but we felt safe. Try a Turkish coffee from Mandabatmaz.
• Lunch: Eat at Çiya Sofrası. It's popular with tourists and locals alike, and we felt very safe here.
• Afternoon: Stroll along the waterfront in Moda. It's a peaceful, safe area.
• Evening: Return to the European side and visit Ortaköy for dinner. It's beautiful at night and we felt safe, but stay in well-lit areas.

Remember, this itinerary keeps safety in mind, sticking to well-traveled areas and using reliable transportation. Always trust your instincts and don't hesitate to modify plans if you feel uncomfortable.

Final Thoughts

So, is Istanbul safe? Based on our week-long adventure, eating our weight in kebabs and baklava, getting lost in the Grand Bazaar (literally and financially), and chatting with locals and fellow travelers, our verdict is a resounding... mostly yes!

Like any major city, Istanbul has its share of petty crime and areas you might want to avoid, especially at night. But with some common sense precautions, we felt safe and welcomed throughout our stay.

Here's our quick list of safety tips:

• Stay alert in crowded tourist areas
• Use Uber or official taxi apps instead of hailing cabs on the street
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help
• Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially at religious sites
• Learn a few basic Turkish phrases - it goes a long way!
• Register with your country's embassy or consulate
• Stay informed about local events and avoid demonstrations

Remember, the biggest danger in Istanbul might be to your waistline or your wallet (those carpets are really tempting!), not your personal safety.

One of our favorite moments came on our last night. We were enjoying a rooftop dinner when we struck up a conversation with a couple at the next table. They were expats who'd been living in Istanbul for five years. When we asked about safety, the wife laughed and said, "I felt safer in Istanbul than when I lived in NYC, SF or LA." Her husband nodded in agreement, adding, "The only real danger here is falling in love with the city and never wanting to leave."

We couldn't agree more. Istanbul captivated us with its blend of history and modernity, its east-meets-west vibe, and of course, its food. Did we take precautions? Of course. Did we have an incredible, safe experience? Absolutely.

So, if you're on the fence about visiting Istanbul, take it from this well-traveled, baklava-stuffed couple: book that ticket. Exercise normal precautions, keep your wits about you, and prepare to fall head over heels for this magical city where continents collide.

Just remember: the real danger isn't in the streets of Istanbul. It's in missing out on one of the world's most fascinating destinations because of unfounded fears. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go walk off all those kebabs. İyi yolculuklar! (Happy travels!)

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah Parker, a couple of food-loving, adventure-seeking, occasionally clumsy travelers from Florida. West here is a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate who's spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this 45-year-old "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about.

Sarah, on the other hand, is a tech wizard by day and a food blogger by night. She's the one who keeps us from getting hopelessly lost (most of the time) and can sniff out the best local eats in any city we visit.

Together, we've traipsed across 6 continents and 32 countries, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene lakes of Patagonia. We believe that with the right information and a dash of common sense, everyone can travel better and safer. Plus, we're firm believers that calories don't count when you're on vacation (a theory we're always eager to test).

By reading our articles, you get the best of both worlds - West's insider knowledge of the travel industry and Sarah's knack for finding those hidden gem eateries that don't make it into the guidebooks. It's a win-win situation: you stay safe, eat well, and maybe pick up a few travel hacks along the way. So come along for the ride - we promise it'll be a tasty one!