Is Istanbul safe for female tourists?
Istanbul is generally pretty safe and petty crime is low. However, be careful around the Old Town as pickpocketing and bag snatching can happen. Avoid hanging out solo in Taksim late at night (after 10 pm), especially on the main street Istikal Cadessi. It’s also advisable to not go solo there on the weekends.
Can you wear shorts in Istanbul?
You can wear shorts or short skirts in Istanbul. However, beachwear in the streets is not a common thing in Istanbul as usual. Although Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city, it is not a small coastal town where people always go swimming and sunbathing.
Do you have to wear a hijab in Istanbul?
Dress code for women in mosques in Istanbul: While visiting a mosque in Istanbul, women need to cover their heads, shoulders, knees .. and oh, toes can show. Chest and legs should be covered. You can carry your own scarf to cover your head but please note scarves are provided at the entrance of every mosque.
Can you drink alcohol in Istanbul?
It is perfectly legal to drink in Istanbul, there are loads of bars there. You don’t really see people walking down the street drinking.
Can unmarried couple stay in hotel in Turkey?
The short answer to this question for Turkey is yes, unmarried couples can stay in hotels in Turkey.
Why is Hijab banned in Turkey?
The headscarf was banned in public institutions because of the ‘public clothing regulation’ issued after the 1980 coup and began to be implemented in a radical way after the 1997 military memorandum.
What should I be careful of in Istanbul?
12 Things You Should Avoid Doing in Istanbul
- Don’t stay close to the sights.
- Don’t take the tram on Istiklal.
- Don’t shop on Istiklal.
- Don’t think there will be no queues.
- Don’t buy apple tea.
- Don’t buy everything you see in the bazaars.
- Don’t buy in bazaars without haggling.
- Don’t be afraid to try street food.