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Is Ankara Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Ankara predominantly has an accepting and hospitable culture with locals generally courteous to tourists. Important to note are the country's modest dress codes especially in more conservative areas. At night, it's advisable to stay in well-lit and populated areas, and rely on registered taxis for transportation. The city is generally secure but the usual safety precautions need to be taken, such as staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure.

Safety rating

4.1 /5

Based on 20 travel experiences

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.3 /5

Based on 13 local experiences

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How safe is Ankara?

Safety at night:Moderate

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is generally safe, but like any large city, it's wise to take precautions. During the day it is quite safe. After sundown, however, some areas can become less secure. While incidents are not common, it's best not to walk alone late at night, especially in less busy areas or smaller side streets. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid risky areas.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Ankara is generally safe and reliable. Metro, bus, and minibus networks are expansive and can get you virtually anywhere you need to go. However, as with any large city, it's advisable to be cautious about your belongings, as pick-pocketing can happen. Women travelers occasionally report cases of unwanted attention, especially during the city's busier hours. Stay vigilant, especially when traveling at night, and take taxis from reputable companies when possible. It might be useful to know some basic Turkish phrases for communication. As always, trust your instincts and if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it.

Street harassment:Moderate

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is generally a safe city. Yet, solo female travelers might occasionally encounter certain instances of street harassment such as unwelcome attention or remarks, especially in crowded places or at night. Learning a few key Turkish phrases and dressing modestly can often help. Remember, adopting a confident demeanor and keeping vigilant can go a long way in securing your personal safety.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Ankara does witness some petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in touristic and crowded places. However, it isn't widespread, and keeping an alert mind and taking basic precautions should help you avoid such situations. Most areas are safe to explore, but it's always good to stay vigilant, especially while using public transportation or visiting local markets.

Tap water:Moderate

While the tap water in Ankara is not dangerous and technically safe to drink, it frequently has an unusual taste due to the minerals and chlorination methods. Therefore, most locals and travelers choose to drink bottled water. It is advisable to get used to the local tap water gradually to avoid any potential stomach discomfort.

Is Ankara safe to travel?

4.1 /5

Based on 20 experiences

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Is Ankara safe for women?

Safety rating

3.3 /5

Based on 13 experiences

Crime rates rating

1.9 /5

Based on 13 experiences

Berra

Ankara is the capital therefore it's quite safe except ghetto like any city. In center and transportation you can feel safe. Also as an important highlight taxis are the best compared to any city in Turkey, you can find them anywhere and less likely to be scammed but still it's better to be cautious! Wish you a safe travel

Posted: May 14, 2024

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Ankara is not exactly for the tourist looking for İstanbul-like attractions. It’s the capital city and you can feel safe. But you mat he surprised about how fast people are. It’s just us trying to balance our rhythm.

Posted: May 6, 2024

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Is Ankara safe right now?

Before your visit to Ankara, it's essential to check travel advisories for Turkey, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States government advises to exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Note that some areas have an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 26, 2023

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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises to exercise a high degree of caution in Turkey, due to the threat of terrorist attacks and the possibility of demonstrations throughout the country. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 6, 2024

🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution overall in Turkey, due to the threat of terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 9, 2024

Is Ankara worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 20 experiences

Solo travel experience

The city was amazing and beautiful and the people were friendly with tourists. I reserved a really cheap hotel because I had little budget, but despite the prices it was really great and I also met a new friend, that by my solo trip, I think that was amazing;)

Posted: April 19, 2024

Things to do: 4/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 3/5

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Family travel experience

Ankara has become an indispensable city for me because my cousin lives there, and I didn't have to pay any fees to stay. It's a city steeped in history, especially in Ulus. The Parliament and Anıtkabir are definitely must-see places. The locations where the Battle of Sakarya took place are also noteworthy. Before climbing Ankara Castle, there are many museums you can visit. There are many famous streets like Kızılay and Tunalı, all of which you can explore on foot. Walking through the streets is the most beautiful way to understand a city. :)

Posted: January 6, 2024

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

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Meet locals in Ankara

Meet local women in Ankara who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Göksu

About Me

I’m a 25 year old girl who is travelling solo right now. I travelled last year also solo and with my boyfriend and with my other friends. I love meeting new people, thats one of my purposes too, not only see the world meet people and become a world citizen even more. I’m dentist but i quit my job to travel for a while, when i’m not travelling i am living in Ankara (capital of Turkey) and i also want to be host when i go back.

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Sueda

About Me

Hi! I am sueda a medical enthusiast and English teacher(ish)! Happy to meet you!

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Stay with locals in Ankara

Stay with local women in Ankara who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

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Ankara