Tensions in the Middle East are still ongoing, following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, leading to several surrounding countries facing new security concerns.
Turkey has long been a popular holiday destination, attracting a record 64 million international visitors in 2025 – including more than four million Brits. The country’s dazzling beaches along Bodrum’s coast, the family-friendly resorts around Antalya, and Istanbul’s cosmopolitanism and sumptuous food culture have long captivated travellers, but recent safety fears have led holidaymakers to reconsider a trip to Turkey.
Typically categorised as ‘West Asia’, Turkey flows from Europe into the continent, sharing its border to the east with Syria, Iraq, Iran, Armenia and Georgia. Here, we consolidated the latest official guidance.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey?
The Foreign Office has updated guidance for British travellers heading to Turkey, citing a “high threat” of terrorism, and advises against all travel to certain areas of the country. Tourists are being warned that most terror attacks have occurred in Southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul, and to stay aware of their surroundings at all times.
“There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets,” the Foreign Office says.
Much of Turkey is still considered safe to visit at the time of writing (Monday 11 May 2026). Popular tourist destinations such as Antalya, Bodrum and Cappadocia are considered largely safe, and there are no Foreign Office advisories in place for Brits visiting these destinations.
There is, however, an FCDO advisory still in place for all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism, which has been in place for some time already, and is not due to the recent conflicts in the region. When travelling anywhere in Turkey, Brits are advised by the Foreign Office to avoid demonstrations, which may become violent.
In addition, the latest update to the FCDO travel advice page highlights recent regional escalation. It encourages British nationals to follow advice from the local authorities, sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts, monitor local and international media for the latest information and stay away from areas around security or military facilities.
In the event of a crisis, there are British consulates/embassies in Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Bodrum, Fethiye, Marmaris and Antalya. For a breakdown of contact details and further details of how best to respond to a crisis or emergency, see gov.uk.
Can I cancel my holiday to Turkey?
Because, at the time of writing, the Foreign Office does not advise against all travel to Turkey, your travel insurance is unlikely to cover holiday cancellation, and you’re unlikely to receive a full refund if you decide not to travel. If you want to look into postponing your trip, it’s best to contact your holiday provider and travel insurance provider directly.
