Women’s Guide to Istanbul

Enhancing personal security in Istanbul involves developing situational awareness (noticing “anomalies” and trusting instincts) and confident body language. Solo female travelers should distribute cash and documents across secure locations, use official taxis or ride-sharing apps, and know that 112 is the European emergency number in Türkiye.

For female tourists in Istanbul, this guide balances style with cultural respect. While the city is cosmopolitan, modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended. For visiting mosques like Hagia Sophia, women must also cover their hair, making a scarf an essential item to carry.