As long as you take the usual precautions, you can rest assured that Istanbul is safe for remote workers. The city has a good tourism infrastructure and is an established center for regional and international visitors who travel here for the city’s culture and nearby beaches. Of course, visitors here will be the common targets of certain types of petty crime and scams, all of which can be avoided by taking some basic precautions.

Remote workers in Istanbul are also likely to be worried about the potential for terrorism but, while this may be unavoidable, the situation on the ground has improved slightly in recent years. In general, Istanbul is a highly enjoyable city, and its vibrancy makes it a congested place where crime does happen, but remote workers can feel safe here if they take basic precautions.

While Istanbul is safe for remote workers generally, common forms of crime are mostly petty theft and likely to affect visitors and tourists more. As in any big city, remote workers should in general be vigilant and careful around tourist and congested sites as these are likely to provide the perfect conditions for pickpockets to operate. Bag-snatching can also be a problem in Istanbul, with markets and crowded avenues likely to be the places where this most commonly happens. Remote workers will also want to be weary of street children in Istanbul, as they are sometimes used by robbers as distractions on unsuspecting tourists. In general, Istanbul is safe for remote workers and violent crime is uncommon and less likely to affect visitors in the main neighborhoods of the city.

Scams are common in Istanbul too, and remote workers will want to be aware of some of the most common ones to avoid them. Overpricing will be the most common way used in Istanbul to scam visitors - it is very important for you to check prices carefully and always try to bargain. Indeed, this country has a strong bargaining culture, and you will save lots of money if you refuse to pay the first quoted price at markets and similar places. If you are an antiques-lover, you will certainly have a great time in Istanbul, but you should certainly be aware of common scams surrounding fake rugs and coins for sale around the city.

Additionally, remote workers should be aware of the city’s taxi mafia and always settle prices before boarding. In general, it is a good idea to avoid talking to or accepting anything from strangers here.

Even though Istanbul is safe for remote workers, it can see issues from time to time. Nonetheless, Istanbul takes security seriously and, as a visitor, you can expect that local authorities are prepared for any emergencies that may arise. Good tips for keeping safe in this aspect include registering your visit with your local embassy, being vigilant around suspicious behavior and avoiding protests.

Local culture in Istanbul feels vibrant and is certainly global, giving all visitors are welcome sense of belonging here. Indeed, all individuals should feel free to wear whatever they want in this city, while being sensitive to local religious sensitivities. Istanbul’s nightlife is also fantastic and safe for remote workers - in general, it is a good idea to party with a group and avoid walking alone late at night around the city. Areas such as Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue are hugely popular among locals on evenings and weekends, and it is a good idea for visitors to be extra vigilant around sites such as this which may be popular among pick-pockets and bag-snatchers. If you do visit these areas, it is important to always be self-confident and look like you know where you are going, to avoid looking like an easy target. Lastly, it is important to note that Turkey has a strong macho culture and that catcalling will be common around Istanbul.

Istanbul’s public transport options are also safe for remote workers. The network is comprehensive, safe and easy to use with lots of options including ferries, metro, buses and cable cars. In general, buses are likely to be the least safe option as these can get crowded and the network is not as intuitive as one might hope. Equally, there is a strong “taxi mafia” in Istanbul, and it is always a good idea to establish a fare and route with your driver before boarding. Uber exists on shady legal ground in Istanbul and, while it can be used, it may be more expensive or less readily available than city taxis.

For more information about living in Istanbul as a remote worker, check out our complete Istanbul guide.