Turkey : Safety by City
Turkey - safety as a country
Ankara, the capital of Turkey, sits in the heart of the country on the Anatolian plateau.
While many travelers immediately think of Istanbul when planning a trip to Turkey, Ankara offers a very different experience.
It is a political and administrative center filled with government buildings, universities, museums, and wide boulevards rather than the bustling tourist crowds found in coastal cities.
Home to over five million people, Ankara blends modern infrastructure with deep historical roots.
The city was once an important Roman settlement and later became the center of the Turkish War of Independence under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose impressive mausoleum still overlooks the city today.
Because Ankara is not primarily a tourist destination, many visitors wonder how safe it is compared with other European or Middle Eastern capitals.
Overall, Ankara is considered a relatively safe large city, though travelers should still be aware of common urban risks such as petty crime, scams, and political demonstrations.
Warnings & Dangers in Ankara
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Ankara is generally a safe destination for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon, and the city has a strong police presence due to its status as the national capital. Most visitors experience no safety issues. However, like any large city, petty crime and occasional political protests can occur, so staying aware of your surroundings is important.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transportation in Ankara is modern and reliable, including buses, metro lines, and commuter trains. Taxis are widely available and generally safe, though drivers may occasionally take longer routes with tourists. Using official taxis, ride apps, or confirming the meter is running can prevent small overcharging issues.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas such as bus stations, markets, and busy shopping districts. Places like Kızılay Square or public transit during rush hour may attract petty thieves. The risk is not extremely high, but travelers should keep wallets secure, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and use anti theft bags in crowded areas.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Turkey lies in an active seismic zone, so earthquakes are the primary natural disaster risk. While major earthquakes in Ankara are rare, the country has experienced devastating quakes in other regions. Ankara also experiences occasional winter storms and heavy snowfall that may disrupt transportation.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Street robberies and violent attacks against tourists are relatively uncommon in Ankara. Most neighborhoods in central districts remain busy and well lit, especially around universities and commercial areas. Still, travelers should avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas and remain cautious in unfamiliar districts.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Turkey has experienced terrorist attacks in the past, including incidents in Ankara during the mid 2010s. Security measures have increased significantly since then, especially around government buildings, transportation hubs, and public events. While attacks are rare today, travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and avoid political demonstrations.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Tourist scams in Ankara are less common than in major tourist hubs, but they still exist. Some taxi drivers may overcharge, and occasionally locals may offer unsolicited help in exchange for money. Travelers should be cautious when strangers approach with deals, invitations, or offers that seem too good to be true.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Ankara is generally safe for women travelers, including those traveling alone. The city is modern and home to many universities and professionals. However, some women may receive unwanted attention in certain areas. Dressing modestly, especially outside nightlife districts, and avoiding isolated streets at night can help minimize issues.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
Tap water in Ankara is treated and considered safe by local standards, but many residents prefer drinking bottled water due to taste and mineral content. Visitors may also find bottled water more comfortable for drinking. Tap water is usually fine for brushing teeth and cooking.
Safest Places to Visit in Ankara
Ankara offers several districts and attractions that are considered safe and enjoyable for tourists.
Many of these areas are centrally located, well maintained, and heavily frequented by locals and students.
One of the safest and most interesting places to visit is Anıtkabir, the monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey.
The complex sits on a hill overlooking the city and attracts visitors from across the country.
Security is strong here, and the site is beautifully maintained, making it one of the most secure tourist spots in Ankara.
Another safe area is Çankaya, an upscale district known for embassies, government buildings, and residential neighborhoods.
The area features pleasant cafés, parks, and cultural institutions.
Many diplomats and foreign residents live here, which contributes to its reputation as a safe and well policed neighborhood.
Kızılay Square is the central commercial hub of Ankara.
While it can be crowded, it is lively and filled with shops, restaurants, and metro stations.
Travelers can easily explore nearby markets and pedestrian streets during the day.
Hamamönü is another charming area worth visiting.
This restored historic district features Ottoman era houses, artisan shops, and cozy cafés.
It is especially popular in the evenings when locals come out for tea and traditional Turkish desserts.
Finally, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, located near Ankara Castle, is considered one of the best museums in Turkey and sits in a relatively safe tourist area with police presence and guided tours.
Places to Avoid in Ankara
Although Ankara is relatively safe overall, certain areas require extra caution, especially late at night.
Some outer suburban districts on the outskirts of the city have higher crime rates and fewer tourist facilities.
Neighborhoods far from the central districts, particularly parts of Altındağ and Mamak, may experience more economic hardship and occasional petty crime.
Tourists rarely have a reason to visit these areas, and exploring them alone at night is not recommended.
Areas surrounding large transportation hubs such as Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal (AŞTİ) can also attract pickpockets and scammers.
Bus stations in many countries are known for petty crime due to the constant flow of travelers.
Visitors should keep bags close and avoid displaying valuables while waiting for transportation.
The area immediately surrounding Ankara Castle can be slightly run down in certain streets, particularly after dark.
While the castle itself is a historic attraction worth visiting during the day, some nearby alleyways may feel deserted in the evening.
Another situation to avoid involves political demonstrations or protests.
As the capital of Turkey, Ankara frequently hosts government gatherings, protests, and political rallies.
These events can escalate quickly, and tourists should stay away from large crowds or demonstrations.
Overall, most safety concerns in Ankara can be avoided by sticking to central districts, traveling during daylight hours, and using common sense.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Ankara
- Stay in central districts. Choose accommodations in well known areas such as Çankaya, Kızılay, or near Anıtkabir. These districts are safer, more convenient, and better connected to public transportation.
- Use official taxis or ride apps. Always choose licensed taxis with visible meters. If possible, use ride sharing apps or ask your hotel to call a taxi to avoid overcharging.
- Keep valuables secure. Petty theft can happen in crowded places like metro stations and markets. Use anti theft bags, keep wallets in front pockets, and avoid displaying expensive electronics.
- Avoid political demonstrations. Ankara is Turkey’s political center, so protests sometimes occur. Travelers should stay away from large gatherings or demonstrations since they can escalate quickly.
- Carry identification. Police checks occasionally occur in major cities. Keeping a copy of your passport or identification with you can help avoid inconvenience.
- Be cautious at night. While most central neighborhoods remain lively after dark, it is best to avoid walking alone in quiet streets late at night.
- Learn basic Turkish phrases. Knowing a few phrases such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “how much” can help build goodwill and reduce misunderstandings.
- Drink bottled water. Although tap water is treated, bottled water is inexpensive and widely available. Most locals prefer it for drinking.
- Watch for taxi route changes. If a driver appears to take an unusually long route, politely ask about the direction. Using navigation apps can help confirm your route.
- Monitor local news and travel advisories. Before visiting government areas or large public squares, check current news updates to stay informed about any demonstrations or security advisories.
So... How Safe Is Ankara Really?
When compared with many global capitals, Ankara is considered a relatively safe destination for travelers.
Crime levels are moderate and violent crime against tourists is uncommon.
The city’s role as Turkey’s administrative center means that security measures are strict, especially around government buildings, embassies, and transportation hubs.
Petty crime such as pickpocketing is the most common issue visitors might encounter.
This tends to occur in crowded areas like Kızılay Square or busy public transit stations.
However, travelers who follow basic safety precautions usually avoid these problems.
One factor that sometimes concerns travelers is Turkey’s political environment.
As the capital, Ankara often hosts political gatherings and protests.
These events are usually localized and easy to avoid.
Authorities maintain a visible security presence in public areas, which contributes to overall safety.
Infrastructure in Ankara is modern and reliable.
Public transportation is efficient, roads are well maintained, and emergency services are accessible.
The city also has excellent hospitals and universities.
For most visitors, Ankara feels like a calm and orderly metropolis compared with some larger tourist cities.
Travelers who remain aware of their surroundings and follow standard precautions will likely find Ankara to be a safe and interesting destination with a rich cultural and historical heritage.
How Does Ankara Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Ankara |
58 |
| Kusadasi |
68 |
| Bodrum |
78 |
| Antalya |
78 |
| Izmir |
70 |
| Edirne |
72 |
| Istanbul |
60 |
 Rutland | 77 |
| Wheeling | 47 |
 Gothenburg | 78 |
| Homestead | 65 |
 Granada | 72 |
| Erlanger | 84 |
Useful Information
Visas
Many travelers can enter Turkey using an electronic visa obtained online before arrival. The e Visa application usually takes only a few minutes and costs around 20 to 60 US dollars depending on nationality. Some travelers are eligible for visa free entry for short tourist stays, typically up to 90 days.
Currency
The official currency is the Turkish Lira. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. Travelers can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Using official exchange offices in central districts usually offers the best rates.
Weather
Ankara has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures often reach 30°C (86°F), while winters can bring snow and temperatures below freezing. Visitors should pack light clothing for summer and warm coats, scarves, and boots if traveling in winter.
Airports
The main airport serving the city is Esenboğa Airport, located about 28 kilometers from downtown Ankara. Travelers can reach the city by airport shuttle buses, taxis, or rental cars. Shuttle buses run regularly to central locations such as Kızılay and major hotels.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Ankara. A good policy can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Turkey has quality healthcare facilities, but treatment for foreigners may require upfront payment, making insurance a valuable safety net during travel.
Ankara Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
4 | 6 | 11 | 16 | 21 | 26 | 30 | 31 | 26 | 20 | 13 | 6 |
| Low °C |
-3 | -2 | 1 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 3 | -1 |
| High °F |
39 | 43 | 52 | 61 | 70 | 79 | 86 | 88 | 79 | 68 | 55 | 43 |
| Low °F |
27 | 28 | 34 | 41 | 48 | 55 | 61 | 63 | 54 | 46 | 37 | 30 |
Turkey - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Alanya | 76 |
| Ankara | 58 |
| Antalya | 78 |
| Bodrum | 78 |
| Bursa | 66 |
| Edirne | 72 |
| Eskisehir | 85 |
| Istanbul | 60 |
| Izmir | 70 |
| Konya | 74 |
| Kusadasi | 68 |
| Urgup | 71 |
Ankara very safe generally
I lived in Ankara for 18 months, home at the time was London. Never had any incidents of personal danger at any point, and this included wandering home from clubs and bars at 2am or later.
Public transport is excellent and a token of how safe the city is. On municipal buses you use a prepaid travel card. The buses are so crowded that what usually happens is that you pass your card down to the front of the bus, somebody touches the machine at the front and the card makes its way back down the bus to you. Now the first time I did this I thought ‘ I’ll get somebody else’s card back with half the credit’ that never happened. Similarly, on a dolmus (small mini buses) you pay with cash. You pass your money down the bus when it’s busy and you always get the right money back. It sums up the general honesty of the place.
I was living in Çankaya and the only other general worry was the packs of stray dogs. They are mostly harmless and look more worrying than they are.
The only negative experience I ever had was on National Day in October. Police were just overly heavy handed. Oh, and everybody smokes (I am convinced Turkish people don’t smoke after sex but during it!). Finally, as a pedestrian drivers are oblivious – be careful!
Otherwise, Ankara is one of my favourite cities in the world. A great cafe society and
I like it
It was good I was born there and very safe overall risk should be low
Ankara Is A Beautiful City But The Only Trouble Is Altundağ And Sincan Because I Lived In Mamak, The Most Dangerous Districts Of Ankara It’s A Quiet Place But Don’t Go To Gülveren Çankaya Yenimahalle and Mamak are the Best Places
Good
yay
Stumbling through Ankara, I felt a bit like a ghost in a bustling university town, surrounded by all these students but still managing to find little pockets of tranquility in the parks.
Ankara has this chill vibe, but sometimes it feels like you’re in a big lecture hall with all these students around!
I found my time in Ankara a bit quiet compared to Istanbul, but the parks are so nice for just wandering around and enjoying the vibe. It feels like there’s a hidden charm to the city, especially with all those university students around.
I was surprised by how much green space there is; it’s nice to find a park to relax in after a busy day.
Loved
Ankara is generally a very safe and well-organized city. As the capital of Turkey, it has strong security, good infrastructure, and many universities, government institutions, and modern districts. Compared to many large cities around the world, crime rates in Ankara are relatively low, and people can usually walk around comfortably, especially in central areas like Kızılay, Çankaya, and Bahçelievler.
The city also has reliable public transportation, many parks, shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural places such as museums and theaters. Because it is a government and student city, it feels lively but also more orderly than many other large cities.
The only common issue some people mention is the presence of stray dogs in certain neighborhoods. While most of them are calm and used to people, they can sometimes make visitors feel uncomfortable, especially at night. Apart from this, Ankara is considered a safe and pleasant place to live or visit.
Yeah, they’ve got more than ten universities and tons of huge parks, but I sat in one of those parks for hours and still felt strangely alone and a bit annoyed.
Anyone else get a weirdly calm vibe walking those wide boulevards past Atatürk’s mausoleum?
The museums and Atatürk’s mausoleum are impressive, but after taking the metro at 11 pm and walking those huge, empty boulevards I kept checking my pockets and felt kind of on edge.