Is Turkey Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Indy Escapes Crew
Jun 18
4 min read

Here’s What I Found Sailing the Turquoise Coast

Before booking my sailing trip with Indy Escapes, I did what every solo female traveller does, I Googled: Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers?

The internet offered a mix of answers. Some said Turkey was magical and safe. Others made me question if I was about to walk into a whirlwind of unwanted attention. So let me give you the real answer, from someone who actually did it: Turkey is absolutely safe for solo female travellers, especially when you do it with the right people.

I joined Indy Escapes for their sailing adventure along Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast. Seven days, a gorgeous motor yacht, a bunch of fellow solo travellers, and more swims, sunsets, and sarongs than I can count. It was the perfect balance of cultural immersion and barefoot luxury.

Here’s what I learned along the way.

First Impressions: Warm People, Warm Weather, and a Surprisingly Easy Start

I arrived in Fethiye a little nervous but mostly excited. I didn’t know a soul, and this was my first group trip post-breakup. I wanted adventure, yes, but also comfort, connection, and just a little pampering.

From the moment I boarded the yacht, I felt like I belonged. The crew was professional and kind, our tour leader made sure everyone felt included, and the group dynamic was welcoming from day one.

And when we set off, gliding past limestone cliffs and tucked-away bays, I realised something: I wasn’t just safe, I felt completely at ease.

What Are the Real Risks for Solo Female Travellers in Turkey?

Let’s be honest, no destination is entirely without risk, and Turkey is no exception. While my experience along the Turquoise Coast felt relaxed and safe, there are a few things solo female travellers should keep in mind, especially in bigger cities or more conservative areas.

Unwanted male attention: In some parts of Turkey (particularly in non-touristy areas), you may receive lingering looks or overly forward comments. They’re usually not threatening, but they can be uncomfortable. Wearing modest clothing and avoiding walking alone at night can help reduce this.
Scams and overcharging: Like many tourist destinations, you may encounter inflated prices, especially in markets or taxis. Always ask for prices up front and stick with recommended vendors.
Cultural differences: Some regions are more traditional, and gestures or clothing considered normal elsewhere may be seen differently here. It’s worth reading up or having a guide who can help you navigate local norms respectfully.

It’s important to remember that most locals are kind, hospitable, and deeply proud of their culture. But these nuances are part of why travelling with a group can make the experience more relaxed since your tour leader handles logistics, shields you from hassle, and ensures you’re in safe, trusted spaces throughout the journey.

Life on the Boat: Freedom, Comfort, and Built-In Community

I wasn’t sure what to expect from yacht life, but it blew me away. Our boat was spacious, stylish, and stocked with everything we needed: sun loungers, beach towels, Wi-Fi, and unlimited swim stops. My cabin was more comfortable than some hotels I’ve stayed in.

Each day we woke up somewhere new: Göcek, Kas, Butterfly Valley, and more. We had daily walking orientations, mid-week housekeeping, and all meals included (with insanely good food, by the way). I never had to worry about what I was doing, where I was going, or whether it was safe to explore.

And being around like-minded travellers, many of whom were also solo women in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s, was a game-changer. Within 24 hours, we were swapping stories, sunscreen, and Spotify playlists.

Optional Activities: Choose Your Own Adventure

One of the best things about the trip was the balance between structure and freedom. Each day had built-in activities, swimming, sunbathing, exploring new ports, but there were also optional adventures for the more active or curious.

Some of my personal highlights included:

Paragliding over Ölüdeniz: easily the most exhilarating (and surprisingly peaceful) experience of my life
A Turkish cooking class, where we made mezze, laughed until our cheeks hurt, and learned the local trick to perfect stuffed aubergines
Kayaking and SUP sessions before lunch, with no pressure and all the laughs
A hike through Butterfly Valley, where we felt like we’d stepped into a nature documentary

And the best part? I never felt like I had to do everything to “keep up.” This wasn’t a competitive, hyper-scheduled tour. It was flexible, relaxed, and incredibly fun.

Safety Isn’t Just About Danger, It’s About Feeling Held

When people ask “Is Turkey safe for solo female travellers?” they’re usually asking about risk. But for me, it was more about feeling looked after without being restricted. I wanted freedom and support, and that’s exactly what this trip delivered.

There was a quiet kind of safety in having:

A knowledgeable tour leader who knew the culture
Pre-arranged meals and activities (no price haggling!)
Clear guidance on what to wear or expect in different towns
Fellow women who had my back

I got to travel solo without feeling alone. And that’s a powerful combination.

Final Thoughts

Turkey is stunning. The coastlines are cinematic. The food is rich and comforting. The culture is deep and generous. And yes, Turkey is safe for solo female travellers, especially when travelling as part of a group!

But more than that, it’s welcoming, empowering, and really fun when you do it with the right people.

If you’re on the fence, take the leap. Pack that flowy dress, say yes to the paragliding, and let yourself be held by the sea and the community Indy Escapes so effortlessly creates.