Istanbul is one of the most historic and culturally fascinating cities in the world. However, it’s not as safe as you might think!
Tourists should remain aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes in the most popular areas of the city, such as Istiklal Street and Taksim Square. There are also some neighborhoods that should be avoided at all costs.
1. Gaziosmanpasa
As much as Istanbul is a world-famous tourist destination, there are areas of the city that travelers should avoid. These neighborhoods are home to drug dealers, counterfeiters, sex workers and extremists.
Gaziosmanpasa is a district located on the European side of Istanbul. It offers excellent transportation options via tramway, metro, minibuses and public buses.
In addition to being a transportation hub, Gaziosmanpasa has a number of luxury shopping malls and schools as well as governmental and private institutions.
Crime statistics show that Gaziosmanpasa is one of the most dangerous parts of Istanbul. This neighborhood has a high percentage of crime, especially against women and children, and is a place where illegal immigrants from the Balkans settle.
2. Tarlabasi
Istanbul has a lot to offer for tourists, but like any city there are some dangerous parts as well. After all, Istanbul is a big and very busy place with tons of people and tourists.
Tarlabasi is one of those places, and it is considered a very dangerous neighborhood. It is located near Taksim Square.
It is a very poor area, and there are lots of children living there. The main thing is to stay safe, especially when traveling alone in the streets of Istanbul.
A few years ago the government started a renovation project in Tarlabasi to make it a more pleasant area. However, most of the buildings in that neighborhood are still very old and run down.
3. Dolapdere
Located next to Taxim Square, Dolapdere is one of Istanbul’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods. It was a wasteland until the 1950s and is now home to illegal immigrants from the Balkans, Syrians, and Roma people.
Crime statistics for Dolapdere are relatively low, but it still can be a dangerous area. Tourists should be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking alone in crowded areas at night.
In addition to theft, tourists should also be careful of mugging and violent crimes. While these types of crimes are less common in Istanbul, they can occur in crowded areas and public transport.
4. Istiklal Street & Taksim Square
Istiklal Street is Istanbul’s main shopping and cosmopolitan hub. It is lined with historic palaces, mansions and embassies that have been turned into high-end retailers.
It is a crowded area with many restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs. It is a popular nighttime destination with tourists and locals.
Crime statistics in Istanbul are quite low, but you should still be aware that thefts and pickpocketing happen in tourist hotspots and around public transportation.
To avoid these problems, travel light and don’t carry large amounts of cash. You should also be cautious when you’re walking around in the streets at night.
5. Beyoglu
Istanbul’s center is a high-octane hub of eating, drinking and entertainment. It encompasses bohemian residential districts, bustling enclaves of live-music venues and chic boutiques.
While crime is relatively low overall in Istanbul, it is still an important consideration for travelers. This is especially true for women, who are more vulnerable to sexual assault than men.
According to a survey conducted by the ICVS, personal and property crime rates are lower in Beyoglu than in other Istanbul neighborhoods. This may be due to a gentrification process that has been implemented in the city’s historical centers since the 1980s, as well as improved security measures.
While a few dangerous neighborhoods remain, Istanbul is one of the safest cities in the world to live in. If you’re smart about where you go, how you dress and behave, and where you avoid, you should have no problem navigating the city without a worry.
