Photograph by Burçin Esin
Dress Code
When visiting mosques, it’s essential to cover your shoulders, knees, and hair. Bring a scarf for your hair (not a hat or hoodie) – some places provide them at the entrance but most don’t.
In cosmopolitan cities like Istanbul or Izmir, people dress much as they do in other European cities, depending on what neighborhood you’re in. However, modest dressing (e.g., avoiding very short skirts/shorts or revealing tops) is still recommended. Beach towns along the Turkish Riviera, like Bodrum or Antalya, have a more relaxed atmosphere, and typical beachwear is acceptable here. Other places dominated by international tourism, such as Cappadocia, also may have a more relaxed dress code vibe. In rural regions or eastern provinces, where tradition is more entrenched, dressing more conservatively is smart. Think long skirts, trousers, and tops that cover your shoulders and cleavage.
Even though we believe you should have the freedom to wear what you want, here at Fish in Water we think dressing more conservatively in Turkey may help you blend in better and attract less unwanted attention. As a guest in another country dressing more modestly will be more of a sign of respect; dressing less modestly is not the statement of freedom that it might be back in your home country. If it’s summertime and you can’t stand wearing clothes that cover you up, it’s best to stick to neighborhoods that are more heavily populated with tourists.
The other down side
Turkish people are generally hospitable and respectful. However, solo female travelers might sometimes receive more attention. Beware of uninvited looks, flirtation, catcalling, and physical contact. It’s best to ignore such attention and walk away. Harassment is not condoned, and authorities can be called if you feel threatened but the chances of anything happening is minimal. If someone is forward and you’re not interested, be very clear about it – perhaps being more clear than you’re used to being. If using dating apps, the usual precautions apply: meet in a public place, tell a friend where you’re going, and trust your instincts.
Remember, these are general tips and might not apply in every situation. This isn’t a guide generalizing the Turkish male population- it’s general advice for any woman or femme anywhere around the world, not only Turkey. This guide was written with a younger, less experienced traveler in mind. Trust your instincts and err on the side of caution, and if you haven’t already, check out our guide on safety here.
Do you have more questions about being a female in Turkey and want to talk to a female in Turkey? We’re here to help! Hit us up here.
