Be Careful!

Although Turks are very honest and always do their best for the tourists, there are always people who will try to scam you during your stay here. Don’t forget that the city population is over 16 million, so it is pretty normal to exist such kind of people! This of course should not make you feel distrustful in connection with the Turks. Just pay attention to some things and keep your eyes open.
Most of the times, scams happens to very crowded and touristic areas, such as Istiklal and Sultanahmet. In general, the targets are solo travellers. But do not be afraid, because if you decline their proposal, they will continue to the next victim. They never push you to do something you do not want to do!

Shoe Shine

Most of the times, a showshiner walks in front of you, and his brush dropes down ”accidentaly” ! The normal reaction is to see the brush, call him and give it back. Well, do not do that! This is what they expect from you in order to start talking and convince you to shine your shoes for free, but at the end they will ask you money! If you indeed want to shine your shoes, then agree on the price in advance…for both shoes!

”Let’s have a drink”

The targets of this scam, are usually solo traveller men. A well dressed man, who speaks good English, he will approach you in order to ask you for a lighter (most of the times). He will be very friendly and polite. He will approach you either if you are standing on the road waiting for something or someone, or even if you are dining at a restaurant. The next think you know is that you will start a conversation which always ends the same way. He asks you to join him for drinks. If you indeed go with him, suddenly some half naked women will show up and when the bill comes, you will have to pay houndreds of Euros. Decline the invitation from the beggining!

Taxi Scams

Before you enter a taxi, agree the money you have to pay for the fare, in advance. If the driver uses a taxi fare calculator, it is difficult for him to steal. So ask them to use it. The target is anybody, but especially tourists.

Pickpocketing

There are some people who will try to steal from you! Either your wallet or even the whole bag. Usually that happenes to crowded streets. So keep your wallet in a safe place and always close your bag. Try not to leave your things unattended!

Carpet or Leather Shop

A friendly man, will approach you, asking if you need any help, if you are lost or if you want directions to someplace. Most of the times he speaks many languages. If you accept his offer you will end up at one of his Carpet or Leather shop, drinking tea with him and his family. Of course he will try to convince you to buy many things. If he understand that you are not intresting, he will escort you to your destination.