Thursday, March 27, 2025
Turkey is currently experiencing widespread demonstrations across major citis, raising concerns for travelers from the UK and the US. Both the British Foreign Office and the US State Department have updated their travel advice, urging citizens to remain vigilant, avoid protest areas, and stay informed about the evolving security situation. While Turkey remains open to tourists, the surge in public unrest has prompted officials to advise increased caution, particularly in urban centers like Istanbul and Ankara where demonstrations have drawn large crowds and a visible police presence.
Protests have been ongoing in Turkey since March 19, with over 1,100 individuals arrested, according to the country’s interior ministry. The demonstrations were sparked by the detention of a high-profile political figure on corruption charges, leading to widespread protests in cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
With unrest escalating across Turkey and tensions mounting in key regions, governments in Canada, Australia, the UK and Germany have updated their travel advisories. Citizens from these countries are being urged to take precautions, stay alert, and avoid high-risk areas as mass protests, border security threats, and public safety issues unfold nationwide.
Canada warns travelers to avoid Syrian border zones over fighting and terrorism risks
Canada continues to advise its citizens not to travel within 10 kilometers of Turkey’s border with Syria, citing ongoing conflict and a high risk of terrorism. The Canadian government emphasizes that the area remains unstable and poses serious dangers, especially for foreign visitors unfamiliar with the region’s complexities.
UK urges extreme caution throughout Turkey, highlights regional hotspots
The UK government has issued a nationwide caution advisory, recommending that travelers exercise a high degree of vigilance throughout Turkey. The FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) attributes this to a continued threat of terrorism and the growing likelihood of spontaneous demonstrations.
In addition to general caution, the UK advises against:
All travel to areas within 10 km of the Syrian and Iraqi bordersNon-essential travel to several southeastern provinces including Batman, Bingöl, Bitlis, Hakkari, Kilis, Siirt, Şırnak, and Tunceli
These regions are flagged due to unpredictable security conditions, including a higher chance of violence or terrorist incidents.
Australia highlights protest risks and counterfeit alcohol dangers
Australia has issued specific warnings following a wave of demonstrations in Turkish cities, especially Istanbul. According to the latest advisory, protests — many of which are not officially sanctioned — have the potential to turn violent without warning. A national ban on protests remains in place, and Turkish authorities have imposed strict movement restrictions for those suspected of participating.
In addition, the Australian government has raised concerns about counterfeit alcohol. Several deaths linked to methanol poisoning were recently reported in Istanbul and Ankara. Travelers are advised to avoid suspiciously cheap alcohol and instead stick to well-known, reputable venues.
Germany maintains cautious stance while urging travelers to stay informed
Germany has not made sweeping changes to its existing Turkey travel advisory but continues to encourage travelers to remain vigilant, avoid protests, and follow the advice of local authorities. German citizens are also advised to register with the nearest embassy or consulate while in Turkey for real-time safety updates.
What travelers from Canada, Australia, UK and Germany should keep in mind
Given the current environment, officials across these four countries emphasize that anyone traveling to or currently in Turkey should:
Steer clear of protests, marches, or political gatherings, even if they seem peacefulAvoid border zones with Syria and Iraq, where instability is ongoingLimit travel to southeastern provinces unless absolutely necessaryMonitor local and international news outlets for updatesAvoid purchasing alcohol from unknown or informal vendorsFollow directions from local authorities and stay aware of legal restrictions
Despite a ban on public gatherings in Istanbul, protests have continued, with many participants covering their faces with masks. The unrest escalated following charges against the political figure, including allegations of running a criminal organization, bribery, extortion, illegal data collection, and bid-rigging. A request to detain the individual on terror-related charges was rejected.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advisory for British travelers, maintaining its recommendation to avoid travel within 10 kilometers of the Syrian border due to the ongoing conflict and heightened terrorism risks. The FCDO also cautioned that protests are taking place across Istanbul and other Turkish cities, with the potential for violence. Police have responded with tear gas and water cannons. Travelers are urged to monitor local news, plan to avoid disruptions, and avoid large crowds or demonstrations.
Turkey is witnessing large-scale protests, prompting the UK and US to update travel advice and urge caution for visitors. Tourists are advised to stay alert and avoid areas affected by demonstrations.
Similarly, the U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings for American citizens, advising against travel to specific provinces and any area within 10 kilometers of the Syrian border due to terrorism risks. Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution throughout Turkey due to terrorism threats and the possibility of arbitrary detentions. On March 24, the U.S. Embassy in Turkey issued a warning about demonstrations, stating that Turkish authorities would restrict entry and exit to Istanbul and nearby areas for individuals attempting to participate in unauthorized protests.
