Solo travel is an experience unlike any other. There’s just something about the sense of independence and ability to appreciate the true essence of travel when you’re traveling on your own that makes it a must-try experience for any traveler. And if you’re a woman seeking to embark on this journey on your own, knowing the best destination to pick is vital.
Istanbul is one of the biggest cities in the world with lots of history, amazing culture and food, and an awe-inspiring penchant for tourists from all over the world. In “The City of the East and West” you’re going to find lots of landmarks, hidden gems tucked away in alleys, and marvelous architecture that will seem out of this world. And if you’re traveling solo for the first time as a female, you’ll likely think of it as one of the best experiences in your life.
If you’re thinking of an Istanbul solo female travel tour in one of the best cities in the world for tourists, you are not going to be disappointed. We’ve made this detailed blog hammering out the details of the dos and don’ts and what to visit for your Istanbul solo female travel trip to help you have an amazing time in one of the best cities in Turkey for solo travelers.
Istanbul Solo Female Travel: Is Istanbul Safe for Women?
One of the main questions that irks every solo traveler, particularly women is whether the place they’ve chosen to explore is safe or not. When it comes to solo travel in Istanbul, it’s generally considered safe for solo female travelers from across the world.
According to a survey done by Travel Ladies, the city of Istanbul is among the 15th safest cities in Turkey for solo female travelers, with generally low crimes happening in very rare instances. The level of crime is significantly lower than in other big cities in the world such as Paris, London, and New York. Aside from the usual safety tips you need to keep in mind, you can safely explore Istanbul without any worries.
Check Out: Istanbul Tour (3 Days)
A Comprehensive Istanbul Solo Female Travel Guide
If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide for your Istanbul solo female travel tour, you’re in the right place. Ranging from the best places to visit, top things to do, and tips for a memorable tour to Istanbul, this guide has it all. Starting, here are the must-visit and the best places to visit for an Istanbul tour:
Best Places to Visit in an Istanbul Solo Female Travel
Landmarks, architecture, natural beauty, and thrill, you name it, Istanbul’s got it. This Turkey gem has a plethora of places you should visit for a memorable tour. Here are some of the best places to visit on a tour of Istanbul:
Hagia Sophia
The most iconic and recognizable building in Istanbul, visiting this on an Istanbul tour is a must on any trip here or to Turkey for sure.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is another top iconic building and a must-visit on any Istanbul solo female travel tour, showcasing the famous Ottoman architectural styles in a fantastic and magnificent way.
Topkapi Palace
This fascinating building was the residence of the Ottoman Sultans and their families for centuries and is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul on a tour.
Grand Bazaar of Istanbul
Another amazing remnant of the Ottomans in Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar has been one of the top markets in Istanbul for centuries and an excellent place to acquire souvenirs to take home.
Spice Bazaar
Another identical version of the Grand Bazaar with excellent places to experience the local culture and cuisine, you’ll find your trip to the Spice Bazaar of Istanbul, an unforgettable gastronomical experience.
Check Out: Istanbul Tour (4 Days)
Top Things to Do in an Istanbul Solo Female Travel Tour
While looking for the best things to do on your Istanbul solo female travel tour, you’ll never run out of the best things to do here. Here are some ideas to consider:
Visit the Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is a 700-year-old remnant of Genoese architecture and a great spot for iconic views of the city along with being a museum and a good spot to relax after a frenetic tour of the city.
Go on a Bosphorus Cruise
Available at all times during the year, going on a Bosphorus cruise during a tour of Istanbul is one of the most fascinating moments of the tour. We recommend you pick the day tour. It’s the safest way to capture the essence of Istanbul from the Bosphorus and enjoy the city in its full life, with the views of the coastal beauty and a traditional Turkish breakfast/lunch to make this one of the top things you can do on an Istanbul solo female travel tour.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine and Street Food of Istanbul
Istanbul’s street food and its cuisines are some of the best in the world. So what better way to enjoy this than on your Istanbul solo female travel tour, where you have the liberty to indulge in the city’s local flavor? Dig into spicy and meaty Lahmacun, savor the delectable Doner Kebab along with Ayran, and enjoy traditional Simit with warm Turkish coffee or tea to make your experience of Istanbul memorable.
Take a Bath at the Traditional Hammams (Old Turkish Baths)
Taking a bath at a traditional Turkish hammam is another amazing thing you can do to make your Istanbul trip memorable. A good place to relax after a street tour of the city, you can easily let go of all your worries at this spot with a nice body scrub and a bath at Istanbul’s hammams.
- Tip: Visit the Hurrem Sultan Hamam, an iconic and must-visit place for female travelers.
See the Old Ottoman Government Center at the Dolmabahce Palace
A palace and administrative center for the Ottomans during their reign, the now palace-turned-museum is one of the best spots for history and architecture-loving female travelers to explore. Aside from the magnificent architecture feats, the Dolmabahce Palace offers one of the best views of the Bosphorus Strait and a chance to get some memorable photos for your Istanbul solo female travel tour.
Check Out: Istanbul Tour (5 Days)
Tips for a Fantastic Istanbul Solo Female Travel
Like many other cities, Istanbul has its challenges every traveler must be aware of and know how to evade to have an unforgettable journey here. Particularly for female travelers to ensure thier safety, here are some tips you must know during your Istanbul solo female tour:
- Always keep your bag or purse close to you at all times. (Most notably near the Old Town of Istanbul to keep an eye out for the famed pickpockets).
- Stay connected with your friends and family back home by buying a SIM card or a Wi-fi device (portable).
- Don’t walk alone at night on isolated and deserted streets.
- Always haggle for prices at any given moment. Especially when you’re getting in a cab or the bazaars.
- Use Istanbulkart to pay for public transport to get around the city. The prices are fixed and no one can try to rip you off.
Check Out: Istanbul & Bursa Package (4 Days)
Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul Solo Female Travel
Q. Is Istanbul safe for female travelers?
A. Yes, Istanbul is safe for female travelers whether they’re with a group or solo. However, you must always exercise caution for a completely safe trip. Try staying near heavily-visited areas of the city such as Taksim Square and Sultanahmet and avoid wandering alone at night without any GPS or map.
Q. Is Istanbul safe for women?
A. Yes, Istanbul is safe for women if they travel with caution.
Q. Do people in Istanbul speak English commonly?
A. More than half the population doesn’t speak English normally in Istanbul. So it’s best to use Google Translate and other translation apps for easy communication with the locals.
Q. For tourists, is it safe to walk at night in Istanbul?
A. It is generally safe to walk at night in Istanbul, but you must always employ caution. Avoid poorly lit and deserted streets at night and always walk near busy and well-lit areas.
Check Out: Istanbul and Izmir Tour (5 Days)
Explore The City of Dreams With Our Istanbul Solo Female Travel Guide
Istanbul is one of the most sought-after cities in the world for all kinds of travelers, even if you’re doing a group tour or flying solo. Whether you’re enjoying its famous street food, visiting its famous landmarks, or just taking in the amazing local culture, visiting Istanbul will easily be one of your top experiences on your Turkey trip.
So are you ready to embark on a wonderful journey to the Gateway to Ancient Wonders otherwise known as Turkey, where you’ll experience wonderful cultures, and rich culinary delicacies, all with pre-booked accommodations, and guided tours? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Turkey. Head over to our packages and book one of our featured Turkey packages now.
