Orientation briefing in Türkiye

Modern Turkey was founded in 1923 from the remnants of the Ottoman Empire by reformer and national hero Mustafa KEMAL, known as Ataturk or "Father of the Turks." One-party rule ended in 1950, and periods of instability and military coups have since fractured the multiparty democracy, in 1960, 1971, 1980, 1997, and 2016. 

Turkey joined the UN in 1945 and NATO in 1952. In 1963, Turkey became an associate member of the European Community; it began accession talks with the EU in 2005. Turkey intervened militarily on Cyprus in 1974 to prevent a Greek takeover of the island and has since acted as patron state to the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus," which only Turkey recognizes. The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a US-designated terrorist organization, began a separatist insurgency in Turkey in 1984, and the struggle has long dominated the attention of Turkish security forces. In 2013, the Turkish Government and the PKK conducted negotiations aimed at ending the violence, but intense fighting resumed in 2015. 

The Turkish Government conducted a referendum in 2017 in which voters approved constitutional amendments changing Turkey from a parliamentary to a presidential system. 

Regular demonstrations and protests are currently taking place in Istanbul and other cities across Turkey. Demonstrations may become violent. The police response has included use of tear gas and water cannons.

Events in Israel and Palestine have led to heightened tensions in the region and in locations across Turkey. Demonstrations continue to occur outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.

Avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Turkey-Syria border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism. If you are in Syria, follow FCDO Travel Advice for Syria. The FCDO cannot facilitate entry for British nationals into Turkey from Syria.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Support from the UK government

While 24-hour consular assistance is available by phone or online, in-person consular support is severely limited in areas where we advise against travel.

Regional tensions

The context in the Middle East remains deeply unpredictable and the risk of sudden escalation is high. Since conflict began in early 2026, Iran has stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including, but not limited to, organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions. There have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran and others across the region against civilian and US military infrastructure.

British nationals in, or planning to travel through, the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. You should:

• read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”
• sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
• follow advice from the local authorities
• monitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice
• stay away from areas around security or military facilities
• keep your departure plans under review, and ensure your travel documents are up to date
• if advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure. Do not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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This guide also has safety advice for regions of Turkey.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Turkey

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey.

Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

See Regional risks for details about the areas in south-east Turkey where FCDO advises against travel.

There have been several attacks involving knives, firearms and explosives. Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:

• public buildings
• places of worship
• airports
• large public gatherings, including major events, public holidays, religious occasions

Examples of recent attacks include:

• in April 2026, two police officers were injured after three gunmen opened fire near a building housing the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul
• in September 2025, three police officers were killed and three people injured in an attack on a police station by a lone gunman in Izmir
• in October 2024, five people were killed and 22 injured in an attack on the Turkish Aerospace Industries’ facility in Kahramankazan, 40km northwest of central Ankara
• in February 2024, one person was killed in an armed attack on the Çağlayan courthouse in Istanbul by the terrorist group DHKP/C
• in January 2024, one person was killed by two gunmen in the Santa Maria Catholic Church in Sariyer, in an attack claimed by Daesh
• in 2022, six people were killed in an explosion in central Istanbul

Extremist groups based in Syria, including Daesh and Al-Qaeda linked groups, have the capacity to carry out attacks in Turkey. Daesh has previously targeted border crossings and nearby locations on the Syrian side of the border.

Political situation

Regular demonstrations and protests are currently taking place in Istanbul and other cities across Turkey. Demonstrations may become violent. The police response has included use of tear gas and water cannons.

Events in Israel and Palestine have led to heightened tensions in the region and in locations across Turkey. Demonstrations continue to occur outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.

Avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Street robbery and pickpocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.

Counterfeit banknotes 

Banks and money exchanges may not accept 50 or 100 US dollar bills, due to a reported surge in counterfeit banknotes of these denominations in Turkey. You should not accept these banknotes where possible.

Drink and food spiking

Be wary of strangers approaching you to change money, or to take you to a restaurant or nightclub. If strangers offer you food and drink these could be spiked. Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them.

Methanol poisoning

There has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in popular travel destinations around the world.

In Turkey, including Ankara and Istanbul, people have died or suffered serious illness after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol.

Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks. 

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

Sexual assault

Among the 4.27 million British travellers that visited Turkey in 2025, 29 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff. The majority of cases that have been reported took place during the tourist season in coastal resort areas. Often these crimes were committed by someone the victim may have met during the day, with a significant number being by hotel or spa staff. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations.

Take extra precautions:

• make sure children and young people are always accompanied by known and trusted people and not left alone with hotel or excursion staff
• use reputable providers for any services and excursions, carry out research beforehand, including by consulting your tour operator if you have one
• don’t unnecessarily share personal details such as, information about your accommodation, personal contact information or social media accounts

See advice for women travelling abroad and information for British nationals affected by rape or sexual assault abroad

If you experience sexual harassment or assault, or if you feel threatened or unsafe, report it as soon as possible to the hotel and to the Turkish police or gendarmerie. Call 112 for police. Contact your nearest British Consulate for Consular support.

Taxi safety

Accepting lifts from drivers of unofficial taxis is highly risky. Find a registered taxi, note the registration number before entering and ensure the fare is metered. App-based taxis and pre-booked taxis are also widely available.

Laws and cultural differences

E-sims

Access to some e-sim services is restricted in Turkey. Check with your provider before travelling.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims in Turkey. The next Ramadan will likely begin between early February and early March in 2027 and will last for 29 or 30 days. Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts. 

During this time, it may cause offence if you:  

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car  

• play loud music or dance  

• swear in public  

You should also:  

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants  

• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens  

• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time  

• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk  

• be patient and show tolerance – fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the late afternoon and early evening

Personal ID

It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks.

Children and accommodation

There are some reports of hotels refusing to check-in children aged 17 and under who are not accompanied by a parent or guardian, unless written parental consent has been provided (and in some cases notarised). Check with your accommodation provider in advance.

Dress code

Dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine to avoid causing offence.

Personal injury claims

There are reports of tourists being encouraged to submit a claim for personal injury if they have experienced gastric illness in Turkey. Find out what you can do if you have suffered a personal injury on the Citizens Advice website. Only make a 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.

Smoking bans

Smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places. Smoking is restricted in some outdoor areas where cultural, artistic, sports or entertainment activities are held.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long prison sentence of 4 to 24 years and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through airports.

Airports in Turkey have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Stray dogs

Most towns and cities have stray dogs. Packs congregate in parks and wastelands and can be aggressive. Take care and do not approach stray dogs. If you’re bitten, get medical advice immediately. Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Sale of antiquities

Buying or exporting antiquities is illegal. You could be fined and receive a prison sentence of 5 to 12 years. Some historical items found at local markets and in antique shops can be sold within Turkey but are illegal to export. Confirm the status of antique items before you buy them.

Using cameras

Do not take photographs of or near military or official installations. Ask for permission before photographing people.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Turkey. However, some parts of the country are socially conservative and public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention. Same-sex relationships are not legally recognised.

Since 2015, authorities have banned or dispersed Pride events. Anti-LGBT+ statements by senior public figures have increased in recent years, and restrictions on LGBT+ organisations have increased. Turkish authorities have carried out operations against LGBT+ organisations and activists across the country.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Comments about the nation and flag

It is illegal to insult the Turkish nation or the national flag. Insulting the President or the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is also a criminal offence. These laws can apply to comments or images online no matter where you were or when you posted them. Defacing Turkish banknotes is also illegal. Offences under these laws are punishable by a prison sentence of between 6 months and 3 years.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Extreme sports

If you do an extreme sport, check that adequate safety precautions are in place. British nationals have been injured and killed doing extreme sports. Only use reputable operators. Make sure you are given full instructions and training before your activity. Make sure your travel insurance covers you for all activities you do. Always read the details of your insurance cover, especially the small print and exclusions on your policy.

Paragliding

Paragliding is an extreme sport and carries the risk of serious injury or death. British nationals have died or been seriously injured whilst paragliding in Turkey.

Make sure you are given full instructions and training before your activity.

If you are near where paragliding activities take place, be aware that the landing area may be in a public area. Keep a reasonable distance from potential landing zones for your personal safety.

Quad biking and mopeds

Quad biking is an extreme sport and carries the risk of serious injury or death. You need specific travel insurance to cover quad biking. Always read the details of your insurance cover, especially the small print and exclusions on your policy.

Make sure you are given full instructions and training before your activity.

Insurance sold by the hire company usually only provides third party insurance. It’s likely you will be charged for any damage to the rental vehicle and you may face arrest if you do not pay.

If you hire a moped you need a valid driving licence with at least category A1 - ‘light motorcycle’. Make sure the vehicle is in good condition. Drivers and passengers must wear helmets. Failure to do so may invalidate your insurance. If police stop you, they will fine you and take your licence.

Jeep safaris

Jeep safaris can be dangerous - there have been a number of reported accidents in recent years. If you join a jeep safari, use a reputable company who have adequate health and safety procedures and equipment. Always check that activities are covered by your insurance.

Water sports

Book activities at a licensed water sports centre and before you start:

• make sure the paperwork is completed
• ask for a safety demonstration
• make sure you know how to call for help

Swimming and beaches

Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Turkey. Always supervise children, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present. 

Take care when swimming in the sea. Some beaches may have strong undercurrents. 

Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. Do not dive into unknown water. 

Follow local advice if jellyfish or urchins are present. See further information on the Turkish Marine Research Foundation’s page.

Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Follow instructions from lifeguards. Take extra care and seek local advice if there are no lifeguards, flags, or signs. 

See further tips on ABTA’s swim safe pages and Water Safety on Holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Turkey, see information on driving abroad.

You need a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) or a UK driving licence notarised in Turkish to drive in Turkey. The 1949 IDP is not accepted any more. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. You must also carry a green card to show you have third party insurance.

If you bring a vehicle registered in another country into Turkey, observe the Turkish customs regulations. Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. 

Driving conditions

Take care when travelling by road, particularly at night. Approach checkpoints slowly and follow the instructions of security personnel. Roads between major cities are generally in excellent condition, but the road surface can be poor in remote areas. Accidents are common – mainly due to poor or reckless driving.

It is illegal to ride without a helmet on motorcycles and mopeds. You may get a severe fine if you are not wearing a helmet.

Do not drink and drive. The police fine drunk drivers and they could confiscate your licence for 6 months.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Earthquakes

Many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and tremors. These can be high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose a risk to life.

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake which occurred in the Sea of Marmara in April 2025, was felt strongly in Istanbul. Be aware of the risk of aftershocks. See Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority’s (AFAD) earthquake page for the latest information about seismic activity in Turkey.

Follow advice from local authorities, tour operators and accommodation providers. See the US Federal Emergency Management Agency guidance about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Extreme temperatures 

Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Turkey over the summer months.  

The NHS has information on how to cope in hot weather.

Wildfires

Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey during summer.

You could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind or discarding cigarettes in risk areas such as woodland. Look out for signs that tell you fires, barbeques, and smoking are prohibited.

If there is a wildfire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities.

If you see a wildfire, call emergency services on 112.

Flooding

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides across Turkey, damaging roads and bridges. Some routes may become impassable, making it difficult to travel and reducing essential services.

If you’re in an affected area:

• monitor local media
• follow instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

This section has safety advice for regions of Turkey. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice.

Turkey-Syria border

FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the Turkey-Syria border.

Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there is a heightened risk of terrorism in the region. See Terrorism.

Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, roads in Hatay Province leading towards the border may be closed at short notice.

Hakkari province, south-east Turkey

In Hakkari province you must get permission from the local Governor’s Office to visit areas near the border with Iraq and Iran. If visiting with a travel agent or tour group, confirm with them whether you need an individual permit. Keep up to date with local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Mount Ararat, eastern Turkey

Mount Ararat, in Ağrı Province, is a special military zone. You must have permission from the Doğubayazıt government office and pay a fee. If visiting with a travel agent or tour group, confirm with them whether you need an individual permit.

Take extra care if you’re travelling to this area. Keep up to date with local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Turkey
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Turkey.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Turkey. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

British prescriptions are not accepted in pharmacies in Turkey. In some cases, you may be able to liaise with Turkish hospitals and your GP to arrange for a Turkish prescription for the equivalent medicine.

Some common medicines are controlled in Turkey. See more information about the documentation you need, or contact the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Turkey

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Turkey where some staff will speak English.

The European Health Insurance Card  and Global Health Insurance card are not valid in Turkey.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is when people travel to have medical, surgical or dental treatment abroad. Cosmetic surgery, dental procedures and cardiac surgery are the most common procedures for medical tourists.

The standard of medical facilities and available treatments can vary widely globally and also within countries. We are aware of 7 British nationals having died in Turkey in 2025 following medical procedures. Some British nationals have also experienced complications and needed further treatment or surgery following their procedure.

If you are considering travelling to Turkey for medical, surgical or dental treatment:

• discuss plans with your UK doctor, dentist or clinician before going ahead
• do your own research - private companies have a financial interest in booking your treatment and their literature should not be your only source of information

See more details about the risks of going abroad for elective surgery.

The Turkish Ministry of Health provides a list of its approved medical providers on the HealthTurkiye website.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) does not give any endorsement of the competence or suitability of any practitioner or facility.