Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers + Solo Travel to Turkey

Turkey, a land where the East meets the West, is an interesting destination that seamlessly blends rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. As a solo female traveler on a quest to visit all UN-recognized countries, Turkey marked a significant milestone as my 93rd country. However, for many solo female travelers, a common concern is safety. The question often asked is, “Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers?” In this guide, I will explore the safety aspects of traveling alone in Turkey and provide tips to ensure a memorable and secure journey.

Turkey, officially known as Türkiye, is a country steeped in history and culture, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. This transcontinental nation has rich influences from its tumultuous past, making it a fascinating destination for travellers.

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is located in the central Anatolia region. While Ankara holds political significance as the capital, it is Istanbul that often steals the spotlight as Turkey’s most iconic city. Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, served as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, and today, it is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends the old and the new. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and rich history, attracting visitors from around the globe.

Another popular destination in Turkey is Cappadocia, a region in central Anatolia known for its surreal landscape, with fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings. Cappadocia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hot air balloon rides, hiking, and exploring underground cities.

While Ankara and Cappadocia are significant destinations, Istanbul remains the primary draw for most visitors to Turkey, thanks to its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. After from safety, I am also covering 7 days solo travel to Turkey.

Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers?

Turkey is generally considered safe for solo female travellers, but like any destination, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some detailed tips on how to stay safe:

Research and Planning: Before your trip, research the areas you plan to visit and familiarize yourself with local customs and laws. Consider staying in well-reviewed accommodations and avoid areas known for high crime rates. Continue reading as I deep dive in all the points below.
Dress Modestly: While Turkey is a modern and cosmopolitan country, it is also a predominantly Muslim country with conservative social norms in some areas. To respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention, consider dressing modestly, especially in rural or conservative areas.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Like in any city, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Trust your instincts and if something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.
Use Reliable Transportation: When traveling within Turkey, use reputable transportation options such as licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services. Avoid hitchhiking or accepting rides from strangers.
Keep Your Belongings Secure: Petty theft can occur in crowded areas or tourist sites, so it’s important to keep your belongings secure. Consider using a money belt or neck pouch to keep your valuables safe.
Stay Connected: Make sure someone knows your itinerary and check in with them regularly. Keep important phone numbers, including emergency contacts and your country’s embassy or consulate, saved in your phone.
Avoid Excessive Drinking: While it’s okay to enjoy a drink, excessive alcohol consumption can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable. Know your limits and be mindful of your surroundings.
Learn Some Turkish Phrases: Knowing a few basic Turkish phrases can help you communicate with locals and navigate daily situations more comfortably.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. It’s always better to be cautious.
Be Cautious with Personal Information: Be mindful of sharing personal information with strangers, especially in tourist areas. Scams can happen, so it’s best to be cautious and verify the legitimacy of any offers or deals.
Seek Local Advice: If you’re unsure about safety in a particular area, seek advice from locals or your accommodation staff. They can provide valuable insights and tips for staying safe.
Stay Informed About Current Events: Before and during your trip, stay informed about any potential safety concerns or political developments in the region. This can help you make informed decisions about your travel plans.
Know Emergency Numbers: Keep a list of emergency numbers handy, including local police, medical services, and your country’s embassy or consulate. This information can be invaluable in case of an emergency.
Always Lock your door: Never ever forget this especially when going to bed. You could even by a door lock.

Overall, Turkey is a beautiful and welcoming country for solo female travelers. By taking these precautions and staying vigilant, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring all that Turkey has to offer.

Solo Travel to Turkey

Transportation

Transportation is a crucial aspect of any travel experience, and in Turkey, you’ll find a variety of options to get around. From buses and trains to domestic flights, the country offers a well-connected network that makes exploring its diverse landscapes and cities relatively easy.

Buses: Turkey has an extensive bus network that connects major cities and towns. Companies like Metro Turizm, Pamukkale, and Kamil Koç offer comfortable and affordable long-distance bus services. When traveling by bus, choose reputable companies and opt for daytime journeys when possible. Keep your belongings close and avoid displaying valuables.

Trains: Turkey’s rail network is less extensive than its bus network but is still a viable option for travel between major cities. The Turkish State Railways (TCDD) operates long-distance trains, including the high-speed YHT trains. As a solo female traveler, opt for well-populated compartments and if you can avoid traveling late at night.

Domestic Flights: For longer distances, domestic flights are a convenient option. Turkish Airlines and other local carriers offer frequent flights between major cities. Book flights in advance to secure the best fares, and arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight. Keep your identification and valuables secure while at the airport.

Tips for Navigating Public Transportation:

Plan Your Route: Before using public transportation, familiarize yourself with the routes and schedules. Apps like Moovit and Google Maps can be helpful for planning your journey. Download Turkiye map on google maps & save it, soit works offline too.
Stay Vigilant: While using public transportation, keep an eye on your surroundings and belongings. Be cautious of crowded areas where pickpocketing may occur.
Uber/Use Licensed Taxis: When taking a taxi, ensure it is a licensed vehicle with a working meter. Avoid accepting rides from unmarked or unlicensed vehicles. Uber worked for me but driver showed up with different car plate but had my conversation on his phone. I later learned that Uber is not officially used. So use it with cautions.
Avoid Empty Train Cars: When riding trains, especially at night, choose cars that are well-populated. Avoid empty or isolated cars.
Ask for Help: If you feel lost or unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for help from transportation staff or fellow passengers. Most people will be happy to assist you.

Accommodation

For accommodation, I recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of center/old town.
For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places. For Istanbul & Cappadocia see below.

Accommodation is a crucial aspect of solo travel, and in Turkey, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. When traveling alone, it’s essential to prioritise safety and comfort in your choice of accommodation.

Reputable Hotels and Hostels: Opt for well-reviewed hotels or hostels that have a reputation for safety and cleanliness. Websites like TripAdvisor and Booking.com can be valuable resources for reading reviews and finding accommodation that meets your needs. Look for places with good security measures, such as secure entry systems and 24-hour reception.

Female-only Dormitories or Floors: For added security and peace of mind, consider staying in accommodation that offers female-only dormitories or floors. These options provide an extra layer of comfort, especially for solo female travelers concerned about safety. Hostels like Puffin Hostel in Istanbul or Cheers Hostel in Cappadocia offer female-only dormitories.

Additional Tips for Accommodation Safety:

Check the Location: Choose accommodation in safe and well-lit areas, especially if you plan to walk back alone at night.
Lock Your Door: Always lock your door, even when you’re inside your room. Use the additional safety lock if available.
Keep Valuables Secure: Use the safe in your room to store valuables such as passports, cash, and electronics.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about your accommodation, trust your instincts and consider finding alternative accommodation.

Popular Destinations Known for Safety and Female-Friendly Atmosphere:

Solo Travel to Turkey – Cappadocia

I landed in Cappadocia first & let me share I felt like it was late for its magic! I had seen beautiful pics from here in 2017-2018 but it took me nearly 10 years to finally see it with my own eyes. Grateful to be at a magical destination known for its surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings. The region is not only safe but also offers a peaceful and photogenic environment for solo female travellers.

How long you need for Cappadocia?

To fully experience Cappadocia, including its main attractions and activities, you would ideally need about 3 to 5 days. This timeframe allows you to explore the region at a comfortable pace, taking in its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural experiences.

In 3 days, you can cover the major highlights of Cappadocia, such as the Göreme Open-Air Museum, the underground cities, the fairy chimneys of Pasabag, and the Ihlara Valley. You can also enjoy a hot air balloon ride, which is a must-do activity in Cappadocia, and spend some time exploring the charming villages and local markets.

If you have more time, extending your stay to 4 or 5 days would allow you to delve deeper into the region, visit more off-the-beaten-path attractions, and perhaps take part in additional activities such as hiking, horseback riding, or taking a cooking class

Here what to do for 3 days or long weekend in Cappadocia but first,

Where to stay in Cappadocia?

In Cappadocia, there are several towns and villages where you can stay, each offering a unique experience and where you stay mainly depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Göreme is a popular choice for its central location and unique cave hotels, but Ürgüp, Uçhisar, Avanos, and Ortahisar also offer fantastic accommodations and a glimpse into different aspects of Cappadocia’s culture and history.

Recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of center/old town.

Göreme: This is one of the most popular places to stay in Cappadocia, known for its unique cave hotels and proximity to major attractions like the Göreme Open Air Museum and the Fairy Chimneys. I stayed here and recommend this area especially for first timers.
Ürgüp: Another popular town with a range of cave hotels and boutique accommodations. It’s known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Uçhisar: This town is famous for its rock-cut castle and panoramic views of Cappadocia. It’s a quieter option compared to Göreme and Ürgüp, perfect for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Avanos: Known for its pottery shops and workshops, Avanos offers a glimpse into traditional Turkish craftsmanship. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in learning more about pottery making.
Ortahisar: This charming town is known for its rock-cut houses and castle. It’s a quieter alternative to Göreme and Ürgüp, with a more authentic feel.

Day 1:

After arriving in Cappadocia from Uzbekistan, I was feeling a bit tired from my extensive travels over the past three months. I decided to take it easy and have a relaxing day.

For my first day in Cappadocia, I opted for some easy activities. I started with a leisurely stroll through the town, taking in the charming surroundings and getting a feel for the area. I then visited a local market, where I sampled some delicious Turkish delights and tasty lunch.

In the evening, I went for sunsets behind my accommodation. It was the perfect spot! I then met couple of other travellers and we decided to venture out a little further and walked about 20 minutes from town to a restaurant run by a husband and wife team called Nazar Borek & cafe (food pics above). The restaurant was situated on a bit hilly area, offering panoramic views of the city. It was a cool spot to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the beautiful sights of Cappadocia.

Ps: If you are keen on hot air balloon make sure you book it on your 1st day incase the weather gets bad then atleast you will have few more days to consider. I opt out of it as I have been to hot air balloon in bagan and also in melbourne.

Green or red tour?

You will realize this is one of the hot topic when it comes to Cappadocia. My answer is both the Green and Red tours in Cappadocia offer unique experiences, so the choice depends on your preferences, interests and how much time you have.

The Green Tour typically includes visits to the Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, Yaprakhisar Panorama, and Pigeon Valley. This tour is great for those interested in history, as it includes visits to ancient underground cities and stunning natural landscapes and who don’t have to rush to airport in the evening because the return could be delayed or late.

On the other hand, the Red Tour usually includes stops at Göreme Panorama, Göreme Open Air Museum, Love Valley, Çavuşin Old Village, and Paşabağ (Monks Valley). This tour is ideal for those interested in exploring more of Cappadocia’s unique rock formations, fairy chimneys, and historical sites.

If you’re short on time and can only choose one, consider your interests. If you’re more intrigued by the natural landscapes and rock formations, the Red Tour might be more suitable. If you’re interested in history and ancient civilizations, the Green Tour might be a better fit. If time allows, doing both tours can provide a comprehensive experience of Cappadocia’s beauty and history.

Day 2: Green Tour

I had only 2 more days left in Cappadocia so was looking for a day trip that would allowed me to experience the region’s natural beauty. I found this perfect option with Cappadocia green tour with lunch which offered a blend of Turkish culture and stunning landscapes.

The tour started with a visit to the Uçhisar Panorama, the highest point in Cappadocia, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It was incredible to see the region from such a vantage point and understand its geological significance.

Next, we headed to either the Kaymakli aka Derinkuyu underground city / ancient ruins, which was one of the highlights of the tour. The underground city was fascinating, with its intricate tunnels and rooms carved into the rock. It was amazing to think about the history and ingenuity behind such a structure.

After a morning of exploration, we stopped for lunch at a local restaurant, where I enjoyed some delicious Turkish cuisine. It was a great opportunity to relax and refuel before continuing our adventure.

In the afternoon, we visited the Ihlara Valley, a picturesque canyon with a river flowing through it. The valley was incredibly peaceful, and I enjoyed taking a leisurely hike along the river, exploring the ancient rock-cut churches along the way.

And I met one of the friendliest local who invited me to his house up in the valley! Made tea and we sat at this man made balcony enjoying nature. So unexpected!

Our final stop was Pigeon Valley, named for the many pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. The valley offered stunning views and was a perfect way to end the day.

There are many options for the green tour but i’m glad I went with this Cappadocia Green Tour. Overall, it was a fantastic way to experience the beauty and culture of Cappadocia in a short amount of time. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a day trip out in nature.

Day 3: Red Tour

On Day 3, I embarked on the Cappadocia Red Tour Adventure which also included pickup, drop off and lunch same as yesterday but with different companies. If you click on green links it will tell you everything about the day trip, company details and more. I was eager to delve deeper into the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

The day began with a visit to the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rock-carved churches and chapels. I marveled at the 5th-century frescoes inside the churches and learned about their historical and religious importance from our guide.

Our tour continued to Pasabagi Valley, also known as Monks Valley, where we admired three fairy chimneys and learned about the area’s unique geological formations.

After a morning of exploration, we stopped for a delicious buffet lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant, enjoying a variety of tasty dishes suitable for all tastes.

After lunch, we visited Avanos, a town famous for its pottery. We watched a skilled potter demonstrate traditional pottery-making techniques and I even had the opportunity to try it out.

Next was visit to Uchisar Castle, the highest rock formation in Cappadocia. From the top, I enjoyed panoramic views of the surrounding area, learning about its history and significance while capturing some amazing photographs.

Our final stop was Devrent Valley, known for its rock formations that resemble various animals. Here, we saw the famous camel-shaped rock and learned about its symbolism in Cappadocia.

As the day came to an end, we boarded the bus and headed back to our hotel, reflecting on the fascinating history and natural beauty we had experienced throughout the day. Recommend Cappadocia Red Tour Adventure if you are short in time but want to see a lot.

Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride: If you didn’t take the hot air balloon ride on the first day, you can consider taking it on the third day, depending on availability and weather conditions.

Solo Travel to Turkey – Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and stunning architecture. The city is known for its safety and welcoming atmosphere for solo female travelers.

In Istanbul, you can explore the historic Sultanahmet area, home to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

The bustling streets of Beyoğlu offer a mix of trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline. The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are perfect for shopping enthusiasts looking for unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Where to stay in Istanbul?

In Istanbul, there are several neighbourhoods that offer great accommodation options, each with its own charm and attractions. Here are some popular areas to consider:

Recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of center/old town.

Sultanahmet: This is the historic heart of Istanbul, home to major attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Staying here puts you within walking distance of many of Istanbul’s most famous sights.
Beyoğlu (Taksim): Located in the modern part of Istanbul, Beyoğlu is known for its more modern and lively atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining scene. Taksim Square is a central hub with easy access to public transportation. I stayed in Taksim area but not right in the center, it was about 10 mins walk to the main street. Perfect for peace & quiet but also not far from restaurants & shops.
Galata: This historic neighborhood offers a mix of trendy boutiques, cafes, and historic sites. The Galata Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Karaköy: This up-and-coming neighborhood is known for its art galleries, hip cafes, and restaurants. It’s also a transportation hub with ferries to the Asian side of Istanbul.
Kadıköy: Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadıköy offers a more local and laid-back atmosphere. It’s known for its markets, shops, and waterfront promenade.
Besiktas: This lively neighborhood is home to the famous Besiktas football club and offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s a great place to experience local life and explore the city’s culinary scene.

Ultimately, the best place to stay in Istanbul depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Sultanahmet is ideal for first-time visitors looking to explore the city’s historic sites, while Beyoğlu and Galata offer a more modern and lively atmosphere. Kadıköy and Besiktas are great options for those looking to experience local life and culture.

Day 1: Sunset cruise along the Bosphorus Strait

I landed late afternoon in Istanbul from Cappadocia, and to start my exploration I had booked a luxurious sunset cruise along the Bosphorus Strait with a private table. Boarding the vessel, I was greeted with a welcome drink as we began our journey towards the Black Sea. Cruising between Europe and Asia, we passed under the iconic Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmed Bridges, soaking in the breathtaking views.

Along the way, we sailed past the summer residences of the Ottoman sultans, including Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, and Beylerbeyi Palace, as well as the grand Ottoman fortifications of Rumeli Castle and Anatolian Castle. The waterside mansions and villas that lined the European and Asian coasts added to the atmosphere.

During the cruise, I enjoyed a 3 course meal of typical turkish meze dishes and mains, complemented by live folk dances from different regions of Turkey. The sensual moves of a belly dancer and the international music by the on-board DJ added to the fun ambiance of the evening. It was a perfect introduction to Istanbul’s beauty and culture. Book the cruise without any hassle.

Day 2: Private Istanbul food tour and walks

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For my second day in Istanbul, because I’ve always believed that food is a gateway to understanding a new country, I decided to embark on a culinary adventure.

I got introduced to Vines and Pearls when I was solo travelling 1 week in Seoul and I was immediately impressed when I heard the founder’s story. She had moved to Istanbul with her remote work many moons ago and later decided to do something that she is truly passionate about. Despite all the challenges that comes with running a business as an expat and general life problems living overseas, she has been successfully running this amazing company! If this is not inspiring idk what is. I absolutely love this for her and I thought to myself what an amazing opportunity to support each other.

So I joined a private food tour with Vines and Pearls called the “Hidden Pearls Private Istanbul Food Tour.” This tour promised to take me off the beaten path to discover hidden gems of Istanbul’s culinary, historical and architectural scene, and it did not disappoint.

As we wandered through the old city, my guide led me to discover hidden pearls, tucked away in the bustling streets. She not only introduced me to the flavours of Istanbul but also gave me a appreciation for the Turkish street food culture. I had the opportunity to visit local eateries, bakeries, and restaurants, where I sampled a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. From chicken ice-cream to savoury kebab, each bite was a new experience, revealing the unique flavours of Turkish cuisine. We also explored the hidden corners of the Grand Bazaar, where we found hidden gems of Turkish food, and antique shops.

The tour ended on a high note as we enjoyed a glass of delicious local wine on a rooftop overlooking the main monuments of the city. It was the perfect way to end a day of culinary exploration, reflecting on the flavours and experiences of Istanbul.

One of the most memorable parts of the tour was visiting small mosques and artisan shops in the back alleys. It was fascinating to learn about Turkey’s food culture and culinary heritage from my licensed & passionate guide, she handpicked local tastings along with the walking tour of the city. I had so much fun, didnt realize how 6 hours went by so fast!

After eating so much, it was time for walk to digest! So off i went to visit iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower and Topkapi Palace.

Day 3: Asian side (Anatolian Side) and the Princes’ Islands

On my third day in Istanbul, I was excited to explore the city’s Asian side (Anatolian Side) and visit the Princes’ Islands. Turkey, with its unique geographical location, has two sides, each offering its own distinct charm and culture.

For whatever reason, if you won’t or can’t go on your own, consider joining this day trip to Prince’s island which covers lunch and you will meet fellow travellers too.

However, I was in the mood for a lil DIY adventure, so my original plan was to first visit the Asian side and then head to the Princes’ Islands. On the Asian side of the Bosphorus, the major ferry whraf station include Kadıköy, Üsküdar, and Bostancı. These piers offer ferry services that connect to the major piers on the European side. For instance, if you are in Beşiktaş or Karaköy and wish to travel to Kadıköy, simply head to the nearest pier and board the Kadıköy-bound ferry. The same applies vice versa for travelers on the Asian side looking to reach the European side.

I started my day with an easy walk from Taksim Square to the Besiktas ferry station, where I boarded a ferry to the Kadikoy port – Asian side. However when I discovered that I could visit one of the islands with the same ticket. I went straight to Büyükada and met fellow travellers from the US, so we ended up exploring the island together.

The Princes’ Islands form an archipelago off the Asian coast of Istanbul, situated in the Sea of Marmara at the southern end of the Bosphorus. This group comprises five main islands: Büyükada (“Big Island”), Heybeliada (“Saddlebag Island”), Burgazada (“Fortress Island”), Kınalıada (“Henna Island”), along with five smaller islands.

The island was small, and we were able to walk around and see everything in just a couple of hours. After exploring the island, I was hungry and decided to head back to my original plan for the day.

I got off the ferry in Kadikoy and started my culinary adventure with a traditional Turkish breakfast dish called menemen at Kadikoy Menemencisi ( had to research hard to find this gem). It was delicious and I continued to walk around the town, taking in the sights and sounds of asian side of Turkiye.

For dinner, I tried manti, a Turkish dumpling dish at local’s favourite Sinop Manti. It was a long day of exploring, but it was definitely worth it. Exploring both sides of Istanbul gave me a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich culture and history, ending it with delicious Baklava from Hafiz Mustafa 1864 Pera! Get it w their signature ice-cream, highly recommend it.

Day 4: Private Turkish bath and wine and dine

On my final day in Istanbul, I decided to treat myself to a Private Turkish Bath, arranged through trusted GetYourGuide. It was a perfect start of the day unwinding! Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city, I immersed myself in the authentic Turkish bath experience.

The session included massage, relaxing in a sauna, followed by a rejuvenating body scrub and foaming, providing a blissful sense of relaxation and renewal. I was glad i booked private one marble hammam like room.

The experience was truly luxurious, offering not only the Turkish bath but also a sauna, body scrub, foam treatment, and access to a swimming pool, all in one day.

After the soothing hammam experience, I went to a wine tour with Vines and Pearls, the same company that had impressed me with their food tour. Turkey isn’t typically associated with wine, especially as a predominantly Muslim country. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety of wines produced in the country.

Turkey’s wine-making traditions span from the sunny Turkish Riviera in the South to Anatolian villages in the East, benefiting from diverse climates and soils. This diversity allows local winemakers to produce a wide array of wines, showcasing authentic flavours and innovative techniques. Despite cultural and political dynamics, wine-making traditions have persevered, becoming an integral part of Turkish culture.

The wine tasting in Istanbul offered a unique glimpse into Turkey’s wine culture, showcasing wines from boutique wineries across the country. The tour was hosted by a professional sommelier and included tastings of handpicked local wines paired with delicious bites. Visits to charming wineries in Istanbul, representing different generations, provided insight into the country’s wine-making mysteries and secrets.

What made the experience exceptional was the commitment to quality and authenticity. Vines & Pearls, the tour organizer, ensured that only certified wine professionals in Turkey led the tastings. This commitment to quality extended to the selection of wines, the knowledge shared by the sommelier, and the overall experience.

Overall, this wine tour offered an opportunity to discover Turkish wines, gain insight into the wine makers and diverse wine regions. For anyone interested in wine and culture, the wine tastings in Istanbul is a must-try experience.

And finally it was my last evening in Turkey, I had the pleasure of meeting a new local friend for sunset cocktails, and a delicious Turkish dinner. One of the things I love about solo female traveling is the opportunity to meet other solo female travellers and expats. We come from different backgrounds and have different stories, but our shared love for food brings us together.

Must try food in turkey

Turkey is a culinary delight with a rich tapestry of flavors influenced by its diverse history and geography. Here are some must-try foods in Turkey:

Kebabs: Try various types of kebabs, such as Adana kebab (spicy minced meat), shish kebab (grilled meat on skewers), and doner kebab (rotating spit of meat).
Manti: These are tiny dumplings filled with spiced meat or cheese, topped with yogurt, garlic, and tomato sauce.
Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
Köfte: Turkish meatballs made from ground meat mixed with spices and onions, often served with rice or bread.
Pide: A type of Turkish pizza, usually boat-shaped, topped with various ingredients like cheese, meat, and vegetables.
Meze: These are small dishes served as appetizers or with drinks, including items like hummus, baba ghanoush, and stuffed grape leaves.
Lahmacun: Thin, crispy dough topped with a mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, often served with lemon juice and wrapped around salad.
Turkish breakfast: A spread of various cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, jams, honey, and bread, often accompanied by tea.
Çiğ köfte: A spicy raw meatball dish, although the traditional version is now often made with bulgur instead of raw meat.
Turkish delight: A sweet confection made of starch and sugar, often flavored with rosewater, citrus, or nuts.

These are just a few highlights of Turkish cuisine, which offers a wide range of flavors and dishes to explore.

Must try drinks in Turkey

Turkey offers a variety of delicious and refreshing drinks to try. Here are some must-try beverages:

Turkish Tea (Çay): A staple of Turkish culture, black tea brewed in a special double teapot and served in small, tulip-shaped glasses.
Turkish Coffee (Türk Kahvesi): Strong, thick coffee brewed in a special pot called a cezve and served with the grounds at the bottom.
Ayran: A refreshing drink made from yogurt, water, and salt, often consumed with meals to aid digestion.
Şalgam Suyu: A fermented beverage made from purple carrots, turnips, and spices, popular in southern Turkey.
Boza: A slightly fermented, thick drink made from bulgur, sugar, and water, often garnished with cinnamon.
Salep: A hot drink made from powdered orchid tubers, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, popular in winter.
Rakı: A strong anise-flavored spirit, often diluted with water and served with mezze dishes.
Turkish Sherbet (Serbet): A sweet, fruit-flavored drink made from fruit juice, sugar, and water, often served cold.
Fresh Fruit Juices: Try freshly squeezed juices made from fruits like pomegranate, orange, and sour cherry, available in many cafes and restaurants.
Sahlep: A hot drink made from orchid roots, milk, and sugar, often sprinkled with cinnamon, popular in winter.

These drinks offer a taste of Turkish culture and are perfect for refreshing yourself during your travels in Turkey.

I hope my Turkey safety tips & travel blog gave you insight into how is it like to travel solo in turkey.

Let me know in the comments:

If you have any questions about Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers
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