Areas to Avoid in Ankara
Turkey
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Ankara. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Ankara is generally Use Caution
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Kızılay, Çankaya, Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere
Travel Insurance for Ankara
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Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Ankara are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Areas immediately surrounding bus terminals (e.g., AŞTİ) late at night.
These areas can be transient and less monitored, increasing the risk of petty crime and feeling unsafe.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Kızılay
The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links.
Very poorly lit, deserted side streets in older districts after dark.
Lack of visibility and fewer people make these areas less secure and more prone to opportunistic crime.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Çankaya
An upscale residential and diplomatic district known for its leafy streets, modern amenities, and embassy presence.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Ankara
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Ankara Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Ankara on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Ankara Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Ankara with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Ankara: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Ankara's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Ankara: Scenic Excursion
Escape Ankara for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Ankara Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Ankara's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Ankara
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Ankara on Expedia
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Explore Ankara safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Kızılay
The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links.
Generally safe during the day, but watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets.
Çankaya
An upscale residential and diplomatic district known for its leafy streets, modern amenities, and embassy presence.
Very safe day and night due to its residential and diplomatic nature.
General Safety Tips for Ankara
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas like Kızılay or Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi. Main avenues are generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings in crowded nightlife spots.
Solo Female Travel
Ankara is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night, and dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
Emergency Number
112
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Ankara
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (always use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps).
- 2Distraction theft in crowded markets or public transport.
- 3Slight-of-hand tricks in busy tourist areas.
Travel Insurance for Ankara
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Kızılay
The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links.
Generally safe during the day, but watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets.
Çankaya
An upscale residential and diplomatic district known for its leafy streets, modern amenities, and embassy presence.
Very safe day and night due to its residential and diplomatic nature.
Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere
A vibrant, trendy street lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars, popular with locals and expats.
Safe during the day and early evening; main street is well-trafficked at night, but side streets can be quieter.
Safety in Ankara
SafeSolo Female Travel
Ankara is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night, and dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas like Kızılay or Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi. Main avenues are generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings in crowded nightlife spots.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (always use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps).
- 2Distraction theft in crowded markets or public transport.
- 3Slight-of-hand tricks in busy tourist areas.
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