Istanbul’s Most Dangerous Neighborhoods: Areas to Avoid After Dark

Allan Bart
May 27
3 min read

Istanbul is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modern life, offering a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and sights. However, like any major metropolis, it has areas that are best avoided, especially after dark, due to risks such as gang activity, drug trade, prostitution, and other illegal activities. Based on local insights and community feedback, we’ve compiled a list of neighborhoods in Istanbul that are considered dangerous, particularly after 19:00. This guide aims to help you stay safe while exploring this beautiful city. Always exercise caution and stay informed when visiting new places.

Here is a list of Istanbul’s Most Dangerous Neighborhoods

Tarlabaşı

Tarlabaşı is a historic neighborhood near Istanbul’s city center, known for its Ottoman-era architecture and cultural diversity. During the day, it’s a vibrant area with markets and local shops, attracting visitors for its unique charm. However, after 19:00, Tarlabaşı becomes risky due to increased criminal activity, poor lighting, and narrow streets that can feel unsafe. It’s advisable to explore this area during daylight hours and avoid it at night to ensure your safety.

Aksaray

Aksaray is a bustling commercial district famous for its markets and budget hotels, popular among tourists and locals alike. By day, it’s a lively area for shopping and dining. However, after dark, Aksaray can become unsafe due to reports of pickpocketing, scams targeting tourists, and occasional violent crimes. To enjoy Aksaray’s offerings, visit during the day and steer clear at night.

Kumkapı

Located near the coast, Kumkapı is renowned for its historic buildings and seafood restaurants, making it a draw for visitors during the day. However, at night, the area can be hazardous due to isolated streets where muggings have been reported and instances of overcharging in restaurants. For a safe experience, plan your visit to Kumkapı during daylight hours.

Laleli

Laleli is a popular shopping district in Istanbul, offering a wide range of goods from clothing to electronics. It’s safe and bustling during the day, catering to both tourists and locals. However, after 19:00, Laleli sees an increase in prostitution and other illegal activities, making it less safe for visitors. Stick to daytime visits to enjoy Laleli’s vibrant markets safely.

Gültepe

Gültepe, located adjacent to Kuştepe in the Şişli district, is a residential neighborhood that appears quiet during the day. However, at night, it’s known for gang activities and rampant drug issues, making it an area to avoid after dark. To stay safe, plan your activities in Gültepe for daytime hours and avoid lingering in the area at night.

Kuştepe

Kuştepe, also in the Şişli district near Mecidiyeköy, has a notorious reputation for heavy drug use and gang activities. Described by locals as resembling a chaotic video game scene, this neighborhood poses significant risks, particularly at night. It’s best to avoid Kuştepe altogether after dark to ensure your safety.

Gaziosmanpaşa

Gaziosmanpaşa, a district on Istanbul’s European side, is a transportation hub with shopping malls and schools. However, it’s also known for significant gang activities and drug trade, especially at night. The area has experienced numerous emergency incidents, reflecting its unstable environment. Avoid Gaziosmanpaşa after 19:00 to minimize risks.

Esenyurt

Esenyurt is a developing district with a mix of modern and underdeveloped areas. While not all of Esenyurt is dangerous, the underdeveloped zones are plagued by hooligans and drug-related issues. Stick to the more developed parts of Esenyurt and avoid less maintained areas, especially at night, to ensure a safe visit.

Dolapdere

Dolapdere, located near Tarlabaşı and Taksim, is known for its art galleries, such as the Arter Museum, but also for its gritty reputation. After 19:00, the area’s dilapidated buildings and narrow streets contribute to its risky environment. While it’s worth visiting during the day for its cultural offerings, avoid Dolapdere at night.

Stay Safe in Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful and vibrant city, but like any major metropolis, it has areas that require extra caution. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, stick to well-lit, tourist-friendly neighborhoods like Sultanahmet or Beşiktaş, avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after 19:00, and keep valuables secure.

Use reputable transportation services and stay informed about local conditions.

For a safe and memorable Istanbul adventure, contact us at hello@ssaucy.com to plan your trip.