Risks for vacationers in Turkey: Safety and travel advice 2026

Risks for vacationers in Turkey: Safety and travel advice 2026

Turkey remains a popular holiday destination for Germans, offering not only beautiful beaches but also charming city trips and hiking trails. However, ongoing conflicts in the region, particularly in Syria, are impacting the security situation for travelers in 2026. Following Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023, tensions have risen across the Middle East, which is also impacting Turkey. A3M warns of a possible “spillover” effect that could also affect southeast Turkey, including possible attacks in that region.

The Foreign Office has issued various warnings that vacationers should keep an eye on. There is no general travel warning for Turkey, but travel to certain border areas is advised against. In particular, the provinces of Şanlıurfa, Mardin, Şırnak and Hakkâri should be avoided. Turkish seaside resorts such as Antalya and Bodrum are around 2,000 kilometers from the current conflict zones and are considered safer.

Political tensions and security situation

Political tensions and possible violent clashes in Turkey make travel riskier. The Foreign Office has issued warnings about terrorist threats, particularly in large cities such as Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir. Travelers should avoid demonstrations and large gatherings of people and inform themselves through local media. In the event of unrest, traffic disruptions and confusing situations could occur.

In addition to the security risks, there are reports of arbitrary arrests and refusals of entry for German citizens. In recent years, several terrorist attacks have occurred in Turkey, including in Istanbul and Ankara. There have also been deaths due to adulterated alcohol since 2025, which poses an additional risk for holidaymakers. The Federal Foreign Office therefore advises paying attention to the original packaging and licensing when purchasing alcoholic beverages.

Practical advice for travelers

Travelers should prepare thoroughly and follow the current advice from the Foreign Office. Before traveling to Turkey, it is recommended to take out international health insurance and carry a personal first aid kit. Although medical care has improved in large cities, it can still be limited in rural areas. Travelers should always keep original documents such as passports safe and make copies.

Furthermore, mobile scammers are active in major cities and it is advisable to be aware of common scams such as overcharging in bars or counterfeit money. Returnees to Germany could be cheated with fictitious prize notifications or customs claims.

It is important to also note Türkiye's import regulations. Each traveler is allowed to import personal items worth up to 300 euros, as well as a certain amount of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products. If you violate local laws, you can expect harsh punishments, especially with regard to drug offenses and criticism of the government. For example, liking posts critical of the government on social media or similar statements could result in serious legal consequences.

In order to travel safely, holidaymakers should follow the current situation via the Federal Foreign Office website and, if necessary, register in the ELEFAND crisis preparedness list. Road traffic in Turkey is considered chaotic, and driving after dark is associated with additional risks. Therefore, special caution is required.

Overall, Turkey remains an attractive travel destination, but the mix of political tensions and security risks requires travelers to be well prepared and vigilant. The situation remains tense and the Foreign Office recommends following local instructions and traveling carefully.

For more information about the security situation in Turkey, those interested can read the reports from Travel reporter and Mercury consult.