Turkey is a relatively safe country for tourists, but even in Turkey, tourists sometimes get into trouble in unexpected places and in seemingly harmless situations. The consequences of careless behavior can be very serious. We’ve compiled some recommendations we found online.
In Turkey, tourists are advised to carry their original passport with them at all times. A photocopy of their passport may not be sufficient. Violations carry a hefty fine. According to Turkish law, everyone (including citizens and tourists) is required to carry official photo identification at all times.
In Turkey, tourists are prohibited by law from insulting the country, the president, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Turkish flag, or government institutions. We’d also like to add: you should never insult anyone, anywhere.
Damaging or scratching Turkish banknotes or coins, or items depicting the Turkish flag or Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is prohibited. Photographing people without their permission is prohibited. This especially applies to women and children. Strangers should not be included in the frame, even accidentally.
Touching others is frowned upon. In particular, touching someone on the head is considered extremely improper. Touching is especially frowned upon with women and children.
Photographing military installations, police stations, checkpoints, and certain strategic areas is prohibited. Unfortunately, we may not be aware that a military installation is in the frame when photographing landmarks or taking selfies.
Collecting historical artifacts or stones without permission is prohibited. Removing or collecting ancient stones, coins, or historical objects from the country is prohibited. Stones found on the ground may be historical objects. Leave the stones where they are.
Some natural objects, including coral, shells, beach stones, and individual specimens of flora and fauna, may be prohibited from being taken out of the country.
In Turkey, wearing clean and appropriate clothing is mandatory in places of religious worship. Avoid loud conversations, put your mobile phone on silent mode, avoid getting too close to worshippers, and remove your shoes when entering places of worship.
Smoking is prohibited in many places in Turkey. Violating this ban carries a fine.
Bonuses, camping, and smoking may be prohibited on some beaches.
Flying drones without permission is prohibited. Unauthorized use of drones: Flying drones without permission from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation or in prohibited areas is prohibited.
Drinking alcohol on the street, in parks, or on the beach is highly frowned upon and may result in police intervention for “disturbing the peace.”
Pedestrians are not allowed to occupy bicycle lanes.
Are you afraid of traveling to Turkey? You shouldn’t be. We’ve been to Turkey many times and haven’t had any unpleasant experiences. Just show respect for the people and the country, as you would anywhere else in the world.