Common scams, tourist traps and avoidable problems in Istanbul, with practical advice on how travelers can recognize and avoid them.
Safety & scams
The UK FCDO does not advise against travel to Istanbul: its advice against all travel to parts of Turkey concerns areas within 10 km of the Syrian border, and its advice page, read on 21 September 2026, showed it as last updated on 18 September 2026. For Istanbul, the FCDO reports that street robbery and pickpocketing occur in tourist areas, that terrorists are likely to attempt attacks in Turkey and that Istanbul has been among the places attacked, with places of worship, public buildings and airports among possible targets, and that regular demonstrations in Istanbul may become violent, with police using tear gas and water cannon. It also cites an April 2026 incident in which two police officers were injured when gunmen fired near a building housing the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul. It notes Middle East regional tensions, with a possibility of flight disruption. Because advisories change, read your own government's current advice before you travel.
The FCDO advises being wary of strangers who approach you to change money or to take you to a restaurant or nightclub, and warns that food and drink offered by strangers could be spiked.
How to avoid it
Choose venues yourself, do not accept food or drink from people you have just met, and be wary of offers to change money.
The FCDO says accepting lifts from drivers of unofficial taxis is highly risky.
How to avoid it
Avoid unofficial taxis; Metro İstanbul, the T1 tram, the F1 funicular and the ferries reach much of what is listed here.
The FCDO reports a surge in counterfeit 50 and 100 US dollar banknotes in Turkey and says banks and money exchanges may not accept those denominations.
How to avoid it
Do not rely on carrying or changing US 50 or 100 dollar bills, and check any notes you are given as change or in an exchange.
The FCDO says people have died or been seriously ill after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol, and that even small amounts of methanol can kill.
How to avoid it
Buy alcohol only from licensed shops and bars.
Emergency information
General
112
Police
112
Medical
112
Continue planning
Experiences & attractions
The best things to do in Istanbul, including major sights, local experiences, practical visitor information and places actually worth your time.
Eat like you understand the place
What to eat and drink in Istanbul, from signature dishes and local drinks to markets, dietary needs and restaurant etiquette.
Bring home the right things
What to buy in Istanbul, where to shop, typical prices, authenticity advice and which souvenirs are genuinely connected to the destination.
When to go
A month-by-month guide to weather, crowds and seasonal conditions in Istanbul, plus advice on choosing the best time for your trip.
Family travel
A practical guide to visiting Istanbul with babies, toddlers, children and teenagers, including strollers, transport and family logistics.
Travel for more people
Accessibility information for Istanbul, including walking difficulty, wheelchair access, transport, stairs, seating and sensory considerations.
After dark
A practical introduction to nightlife in Istanbul, including nightlife areas, atmosphere, late-night considerations and safety.
Money & budgeting
What a trip to Istanbul costs, including typical daily budgets, transport, food, attractions, payments and common money mistakes.
Complete destination guide