Tips for Travelling in Turkey as a Solo Woman
Whether you’re wandering through Istanbul’s historic streets or relaxing by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, holidays to Turkey offer endless opportunities for adventure and cultural exploration.
Whether you’re wandering through Istanbul’s historic streets or relaxing by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, holidays to Turkey offer endless opportunities for adventure and cultural exploration.
Yet although the republic can be a rewarding place to visit for solo women travellers, it’s important to be mindful of cultural differences and practicalities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Below, we share how you can keep secure and confident during your journey.
Stay Informed
Research is your best ally. Before heading to a new city or region, familiarise yourself with its cultural nuances, safety concerns and transportation options.
Istanbul is vibrant and relatively liberal, more conservative areas such as Konya or parts of Eastern Turkey might require greater sensitivity to local customs.
Trying local delicacies and engaging in learning the language can be a positive way to make friends and also feel more at ease with your surroundings.
For instance, whereas Istanbul is vibrant and relatively liberal, more conservative areas such as Konya or parts of Eastern Turkey might require greater sensitivity to local customs.
Check the government’s latest travel advice and always have a backup plan for emergencies. Staying updated can help you avoid unnecessary stress and navigate confidently.
Dress Modestly
In this country of contrasts, your clothing choices can impact how you’re perceived. In cosmopolitan areas such as Istanbul or Izmir, you’ll find many women in modern attire, but in smaller towns and rural areas, modest dress is the norm.
To blend in and escape unwanted attention, cover your shoulders and knees, and don’t wear low-cut tops. If you’re visiting mosques, wear loose-fitting clothing and carry a scarf to cover your hair.
In this country of contrasts, your clothing choices can impact how you’re perceived. To visit religious places or for less cosmopolitan areas it is advised to dress more modestly, covering shoulders, chest and keeping skirts to ankle length.
While solo travel has perks, sometimes joining forces with fellow travellers can enhance your experience.
Consider Teaming Up
Many hostels and guesthouses offer communal spaces where you can meet like-minded women. While solo travel has perks, sometimes joining forces with fellow travellers can enhance your experience.
Group tours to attractions such as Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys or Ephesus’s ancient ruins can provide companionship and reduce any potential safety concerns you have. By teaming up, you can explore with added security and a sense of camaraderie.
Learn Basic Phrases
Although many Turks in urban centres speak English, knowing a few key Turkish phrases can open doors and create goodwill. Simple words like “merhaba” (hello), “teşekkür ederim” (thank you), and “yardım eder misiniz?” (can you help me?) can make interactions smoother.
Locals often appreciate the effort, and your attempts to connect in their language can lead to more authentic experiences. Download a language app or carry a phrasebook to help in a pinch.
Turkey has a rich, cultural history which can be enjoyed either solo or as part of a larger group.
Travelling in Turkey as a solo woman is a journey of discovery, empowerment and connection.
Travelling in Turkey as a solo woman is a journey of discovery, empowerment and connection. By staying mindful of the tips we’ve shared above, you can ensure you’re protected and create lasting memories along your journey. With a bit of preparation and an adventurous spirit, you’ll return home with stories that inspire and a deeper appreciation for this incredible destination.