Turkey is a large country with a diverse range of cities and regions, and crime rates can vary significantly from one area to another. As with any country, there are some cities in Turkey that have higher crime rates than others. However, it’s important to note that even the most dangerous cities in Turkey are typically considered safe for travelers and residents compared to many other countries.
The most commonly reported crimes in Turkey are pickpocketing, theft, and scams targeting tourists. Violent crime is relatively rare in most areas of the country.
While it’s difficult to definitively label any city in Turkey as the “most dangerous,” there are a few cities that have higher crime rates than others. These include:
- Istanbul – Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It’s also known for having a relatively high crime rate, particularly when it comes to theft and scams targeting tourists. Visitors to Istanbul should be particularly cautious in busy tourist areas, such as Taksim Square and the Grand Bazaar.
- Ankara – Ankara is the capital city of Turkey and is located in the central Anatolian region of the country. While it’s generally considered to be a safe city, it does have a higher crime rate than some other cities in Turkey, particularly when it comes to theft and burglary.
- Izmir – Izmir is a large city located on the Aegean coast of Turkey. While it’s generally considered to be a safe city, it does have a higher crime rate than some other cities in Turkey, particularly when it comes to theft and pickpocketing.
It’s important to note that crime rates can vary significantly within cities, and travelers and residents should always take basic safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash, and keeping their valuables out of sight. Additionally, visitors to Turkey should always follow the guidance of local authorities and keep up to date with any travel advisories or safety warnings.