Is Istanbul safe for tourists, and how common are thefts, including at Istanbul Airport?
Based on 2 discussions with 2 participants · Last activity: 7 days ago
TL;DR
Travelers describe Istanbul as a typical big city: many visit repeatedly without problems, but theft does happen, including at Istanbul Airport. The practical takeaway is to watch your cash and cards, avoid keeping all money in one place, and carry a backup stash in euros or another usable currency.
What the community said
The most recent account mentions a traveler being robbed at Istanbul Airport in April while in transit to Cuba. After the theft he had no foreign currency left, so it is wise to split your money and keep a small emergency reserve in euros.
7 days ago Istanbul Airport; euros
Another traveler says safety in Turkey can vary a lot by area and by where you stay. Even an all-inclusive hotel can have a serious incident, so when choosing accommodation, check the district, safety-related reviews, and the property’s reputation—not just the meal plan and price.
7 days ago all-inclusive hotel
There is also a reassuring experience: a frequent visitor says they have never been robbed or assaulted in Istanbul despite many trips. That suggests many stays in the city are trouble-free if you use normal big-city precautions.
7 days ago Istanbul