uk government travel advice for turkey

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Border with Syria

FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

Sirnak (city)

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak (city).

Hakkari province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari province.

Find out more about  why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

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Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Latest travel advice

Here’s what you need to know about visiting turkey, including the latest foreign office travel advice.

A mere few hours’ plane-ride away, Turkey has become increasingly popular for British tourists in the last few years. It has a capital that straddles two continents, gorgeous beaches lining its Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, and, perhaps most attractive of all, a great exchange rate in the pound’s favour.

However, given the current conflict between Israel and Hamas, and the possibility of a regional conflict, those travelling to Turkey may have concerns about safety. Most of the country is considered safe to travel to by the UK Foreign Office, but it warns that demonstrations are taking place in Ankara and Istanbul, and that these could become violent. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a visit.

Main photo: Istiklal Avenue in Taksim, Istanbul (Getty Images)

Has Turkey been affected by the Hamas-Israel conflict?

So far there have been no signs of Turkey being directly impacted by the conflict, although there have been protests outside diplomatic missions in Istanbul, Ankara and other major cities, according to the Foreign Office. You should avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops.

The country’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said at a congress of his AK Party that “we call for restraint from all parties” adding that both sides “must refrain from aggressive acts”. He has also said Turkey will do whatever it can to ease tensions and stop the violence.

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Is it safe to travel to turkey.

It depends on where you’re travelling to but most regions in Turkey are safe and tourist-friendly. However, the Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria, and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

The Foreign Office also considers the threat of terrorism to be very high in the country (more below), and political protests and demonstrations have become violent. So, as with any destination, it pays to stay vigilant and follow the latest travel advice from the Foreign Office, as well as those issued by authorities on the ground.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Turkey • Best hotels in Turkey • 14 of the best hotels in Fethiye

Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

Yes, there’s no reason not to travel to Istanbul right now. However, you should stay vigilant and pay attention to local government advice.

The Foreign Office says that most terrorist attacks in Turkey have taken place in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. Separately, the country is also affected by political demonstrations in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

• Best hotels in Istanbul • Best things to do in Istanbul

Is it safe to travel to Antalya?

Yes, Ankara remains safe to visit. The Israel-Hamas conflict has not impacted the city, aside from the aforementioned demonstrations.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Antalya • Best hotels in Antalya

What is the Foreign Office travel advice?

The Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to areas within 10km of the border with Syria as well as all but essential travel to Sirnak and the province of Hakkari. In the rest of the country, it’s a case of staying vigilant.

The Israel-Hamas war has led to heightened tensions in the region and demonstrations are ongoing in cities across Turkey. The Foreign Office states that demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul, and that visitors should avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may also be disrupted.

Across Turkey more generally, crime rates are low but robberies and thefts are common, particularly pickpocketing. There have also been reports of passports being stolen from rented villas, including from safes, in Didim, Kas, Kalkan and the Fethiye/Hisaronu/Ovacik areas.

Travellers are also advised to avoid any offers of food and drink, which may be spiked, and to be wary if someone offers to take you to a club or restaurant or to help you change currency. Sexual assaults and rapes have also been reported, and have mostly taken place during the busy summer period in coastal regions. In many cases, they involved someone the victim had met earlier on the day of the attack.

Most terrorist attacks in the country to date have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul, and the Foreign Office states that it’s possible that terrorists may target places visited by foreigners such as public buildings, places of worship and major events.

What are Turkey’s entry requirements?

British citizens are able to travel to Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period. If you’re planning to be in the country for longer, you’ll need either a visa or residence permit.

Turkey requires you to have at least 150 days left on the validity of your passport from the day you arrive in the country. You’ll also need a full blank page for the entry and exit stamps.

Here’s what you need to know about the travel advice for neighbouring countries

• Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? • Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?

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Can I go to Turkey? Travel restrictions from the UK explained

By Abigail Malbon

Here’s what you need to know about the UK's travel rules for when you return from the country, plus Turkey’s own entry requirements for people looking to visit.

Is Turkey on the red list?

Turkey is one of eight countries that was removed from the red list on Monday 4 October 2021. 

However, from Friday 18 March 2022, there are no Covid travel rules in the UK, which means that those returning to the country do not need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status. The government will also no longer manage any quarantine hotels from the end of March. 

What are the entry requirements for Turkey?

As of 1 June 2022, all Covid entry requirements to Turkey have been dropped. This means that you can now enter Turkey regardless of your vaccination status and without needing to show proof of a negative Covid test. 

Previously, all travellers aged six and over needed to complete an online form a maximum of 72 hours before travelling.

Fully vaccinated travellers could enter without needing to test or quarantine, but had to show proof of their vaccination status, while unvaccinated travellers had to show proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before entry, or proof of a recent recovery from Covid-19 within the last six months. 

Coronavirus entry requirements could still change at short notice, so travellers are advised to check the specifics with their airline before travelling. For the latest advice, please check the UK government's advice on Turkey's entry requirements . 

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Turkey travel rules: What are the latest restrictions for holidaymakers?

Here are the current entry rules for british tourists, article bookmarked.

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Turkey is a highly popular summer holiday destination for British travellers, thanks to its reliably scorching weather, wealth of beach resorts in Bodrum and Antalya and fantastically rich culture found in cities like Istanbul and Ankara.

For a time, it was wary of letting in tourists, requiring proof of vaccination or a negative test for entry. However, it has now joined a number of European countries in scrapping Covid travel restrictions.

Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

Do I need proof of vaccination or a test to visit Turkey?

No. As of 1 June, all Covid-19 restrictions in Turkey have been lifted, and passengers arriving in Turkey are no longer required to present proof of vaccination or negative PCR test results.

Do I need to fill in a passenger locator form for Turkey?

No; a passenger locator form is no longer required for entry to Turkey.

Do I need to wear a mask while on holiday in Turkey?

No; face masks are no longer required outdoors or indoors if air circulation and social distancing are adequate.

How long do I need left on my passport to visit Turkey?

If you are visiting Turkey, your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive and there should be a full blank page for entry and exit stamps.

Brits travelling to Turkey for tourism or business purposes can stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.

If you plan to remain in Turkey for longer, you need to apply for a longer stay visa before travel, or get a residence permit from the local authorities in Turkey before your 90-day stay has elapsed.

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Pinpoint Travel Health

Foreign Travel Advice Turkey

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Turkey from the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

Turkey is a popular destination for British tourists, with its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating country. However, planning a trip to Turkey from the UK can be a bit daunting, so in this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Getting There:

The most popular way to get to Turkey from the UK is by flying. Turkish Airlines, British Airways, and easyJet all operate regular flights from major UK airports to Istanbul, Ankara, and other Turkish cities. You can also fly to Turkish resorts such as Antalya, Bodrum, and Dalaman, with direct flights from the UK to these destinations.

British citizens do not need a visa to enter Turkey for stays of up to 90 days. However, you will need to have a valid passport, with at least six months left before its expiry date, in order to enter the country.

Money and Currency:

The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. You can obtain Turkish Lira from ATMs or currency exchange offices at the airport or in major towns and cities. Credit cards are widely accepted in Turkey, especially in tourist areas, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand as well.

Accommodation:

Turkey offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. In major tourist destinations such as Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum, you’ll find plenty of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals to choose from. In more rural areas, traditional Turkish “pansiyons” or guesthouses are a popular choice.

Transportation:

Turkey has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and metro systems. Taxis and rental cars are also readily available. If you plan to explore more remote areas, it’s a good idea to rent a car. Taxis are typically yellow but on occasion in Istanbul you will see blue are these usually better and newer cars which cost a little more and some are black.

Black taxis are usually VIP which means luxury. The vehicles are usually much bigger too, vehicles like Mercedes Viano are used most often. Costs can be as much as 3 times the price of a yellow taxi due to size and comfort.

Food and Drink:

Turkish cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and healthy ingredients. Some popular dishes include kebabs, mezze (a variety of small dishes), and baklava (a sweet pastry). The country also has a great selection of local wines and beers.

The weather in Turkey varies depending on the region and the time of year. Generally, the country has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters.

In the coastal areas along the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, the summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) in July and August. The winters are mild, with temperatures averaging around 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit) in December and January.

In the interior regions, such as Ankara and Konya, the summers are also hot, but the winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night.

In the coastal areas along the Black Sea, the summers are milder and the winters are cooler and wetter, with more rainfall than the Mediterranean and Aegean coast regions.

It’s best to check the weather forecast for the specific area you’ll be visiting before your trip, and pack accordingly.

Sightseeing and Activities:

Turkey is home to many historical and cultural landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the ancient city of Ephesus. The country also offers great opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot-air balloon rides. If you’re a beach lover, you’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.

Safety and Health:

Turkey is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions to ensure your safety. Always be aware of your surroundings, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. All travellers is recommended to check travel advice from their countries foreign office.

British nationals are advice to visit the Foreign Commonwealth Office website for travel advice to Turkey.

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey

Importance of Tourism for Turkey:

Turkey is a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors each year. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Turkey welcomed around 45.3 million international tourists in 2019, which made it the 6th most visited country in the world.

In terms of revenue, the tourism industry in Turkey is a major contributor to the country’s economy. According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey, the tourism sector generated around $34.5 billion in revenue in 2019.

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a particularly popular destination for tourists. According to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the city welcomed around 15.5 million foreign visitors in 2019. Other popular destinations in Turkey include Antalya, Bodrum, and Cappadocia.

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the tourism industry in Turkey, just like the rest of the world. However, Turkey began to ease the restrictions and started to welcome back the tourists as the situation improves. Turkey has a very good 2021 and 2022 for tourism attracting over 50 million visitor exceeding 2019 figures.

It’s worth noting that these statistics may have been affected by the situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a significant decrease in the number of tourists visiting Turkey and many other countries in the world.

Turkey’s Economy

Turkey’s economy is considered to be an emerging market economy and is the 13th largest in the world by nominal GDP. The country has a diverse and dynamic economy that is driven by a combination of factors, including its strategic location, abundant natural resources, and a large and young population.

One of the key drivers of Turkey’s economy is its industrial sector, which includes a wide range of industries such as textiles, automotive, construction, and electronics. The country is also a major exporter of agricultural products, including wheat, fruits, and vegetables.

Tourism is another significant contributor to Turkey’s economy. The country is known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, and it attracts millions of tourists every year. In 2019, Turkey was the 6th most visited country in the world, with 45 million tourists, which generated a revenue of $34 billion.

Turkey’s services sector is also well-developed, and it includes sectors such as finance, healthcare, and education. The country has a well-developed banking sector and a growing insurance industry.

Turkey has a growing economy, but it also faces several challenges. One of the main challenges is high inflation, which has been a problem for several years. In addition, the country’s current account deficit is high, which means it imports more goods and services than it exports. The country also faces political instability, which can negatively impact the economy.

Despite these challenges, Turkey has a large and rapidly growing economy, and it is expected to continue to be an important player in the global economy in the future.

(Figure update as of article published. We advice checking figure)

Conclusion:

Travelling to Turkey from the UK is an exciting and rewarding experience. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating country. By following the tips and information outlined in this article, you’ll be well prepared for a memorable trip to Turkey.

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UK Government issues Turkey travel advice update after earthquake

Earthquake has brought tragedy and chaos, with warning not to travel to certain regions

• 09:34, 9 FEB 2023
• Updated 10:41, 9 FEB 2023

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An official update has been issued for travel to Turkey . It comes as many people in Nottinghamshire wait to see whether planned trips to Turkey will go ahead this half term.

Tragically, nearly 16,000 people are now known to have been killed and thousands injured by a huge earthquake which struck south-eastern Turkey, near the Syrian border, in the early hours of Monday morning. It is feared the number of people killed will carry on rising.

Travel in the quake zone is almost impossible, hampering rescue efforts. In addition to the natural disaster, the area has seen affected by war over the past decade.

Read more: Passport warning – apply for yours now or risk missing out on holiday

The areas most badly affected are not popular with UK travellers. The worst hit region of Turkey, near the town of Gaziantep, is somewhere only intrepid tourists would normally visit.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office was already advising caution to prospective travellers before the quake. Now, it is obviously a no-go zone.

The tragedy has occurred in the south east of Turkey. The main tourist resorts – for example, Bodrum and Marmaris – are in the south west, hundreds of miles away.

What is the Government's travel update for Turkey?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) says: "The Turkish government has announced a national emergency in the 10 provinces affected by the earthquake. These are the provinces of Kahramanmaraş, Gaziantep, Malatya, Diyarbakır, Kilis, Şanlıurfa, Adıyaman, Hatay, Osmaniye, Adana."

The FCDO has produced a map . It shows that most of Turkey is safe for travel.

It adds: "The Turkish Government has stated that only vehicles which carry aid teams and aid materials will be allowed to enter cities deemed to be inside the area of the disaster. If you are in Turkey or planning to travel there you should follow the information and advice from local authorities/your tour operator."

Will my half-term holiday to Turkey be cancelled?

At present, no airlines serving the UK have announced cancellations to their flights in relation to the natural disaster. And there is no indication that package holidays to the popular resorts on the Aegean and Mediterranean will be affected.

Your travel operator will advise you if there are any changes you need to be aware of. But the message from the tourism industry is that Turkey's resorts will remain open for business, despite the tragic events.

If you are looking for a half-term break in Turkey, Jet2 offers flights and packages from East Midlands Airport. During half-term week, they fly to Antalya (gateway to the Turkish resorts) on Friday, February 17.

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Foreign Office issues update on Turkey travel advice and urges holidaymakers to 'be alert'

The Government department has changed previous advice warning against 'all but essential travel' to parts of the country

• 19:46, 12 AUG 2022

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The UK Foreign Office has issued an update for holidaymakers planning to travel to Turkey.

The country is a popular tourist destination, with Brits making more than 2.5 million visits to Turkey in 2019 with most popular resorts found on the west coast. But the Foreign Office previously advised people to avoid “all but essential travel” to a number of the nation’s provinces, the Liverpool Echo reports .

However, as of Thursday 12 August the department has updated its guidelines on Turkey, saying that it no longer advises against travel to the Tunceli, Diyarbakir, Kilis and Hatay provinces. It continues to advise against all travel to areas within 10km of the country’s border with Syria, as well as all but essential travel to Sirnak and the province of Hakkari.

READ MORE: Urgent search for Darlington boy, 4, missing in Turkey after going on holiday with his mum

The Foreign Office added that “most visits are trouble free”, but urged travellers to “be alert to your surroundings and remain vigilant in crowded places popular with foreign nationals, including during festival periods”.

The advice reads: “The effect of the attempted coup in July 2016 is still deeply felt in Turkey although the situation is now considerably calmer. A state of emergency imposed after the coup attempt has been lifted, although some restrictions remain in place.”

The department warned that terrorist groups are “very likely” to attempt attacks in Turkey, warning that further attacks “could be indiscriminate” and that most had taken place in the south east of the country, as well as in the country’s two most populated cities of Istanbul and the capital Ankara. They have urged tourists to carry their passports with them at all times due to Turkish authorities performing random ID checks in some busy areas.

The Foreign Office has also urged holidaymakers to follow the instructions of local security authorities and keep up to date with the latest media reports and travel advice. You can read more information on the Gov.uk website .

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Travel Advice for Turkey

Going to Turkey and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Turkey? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Turkey from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Turkey

The decision to go to Turkey is your choice and you are responsible for your individual welfare whilst in Turkey.

The material on this web page is given information only and compiled from travel advice and warnings for Turkey by governments all over the world to their citizens.

While we strive to offer you appropriate travel advice information, it is offered on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This owners of this website does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information supplied.

General Cautions Travellers Need to Remember When Taking a Trip in Turkey

Crime – Petty criminal offenses such as pick pocketing in a jampacked environment to sexual assault and robberies do happen in bigger cities of Turkey. Ensure that all your personal belongings, such as passports and other traveling documents, are secure at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings whenever in public locations. Be particularly watchful if participating in sporting events and throughout religious holidays and other public occasions, as terrorists frequently use such celebrations to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations may take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety and security to stay away from locations where demonstrations and big gatherings are happening and follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Turkey for info on on-going protests in Turkey.

Scams – Exercise care in popular tourist areas in Turkey, where scammers target travellers. If you have actually been scammed in Turkey, reach a safe location right away; take note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; notify the cops in Turkey and get a report and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card company to report the scam; they will likely ask for a copy of the police report to cancel the financial transaction.

Spiked Food and Drinks – Never ever leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers whilst taking a trip in Turkey or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, drinks, gum or cigarettes from unknown acquaintances. These items may have drugs that can put you in danger of sexual assault and robbery.

What is the entry/exit conditions for Turkey?

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders, likewise Turkey determines who enter its borders. The Government of your home country can not intervene on your behalf if you do not satisfy your Turkey’s entry or exit requirements.

To read more about the entry/exit requirement for Turkey go to visa requirements for Turkey or obtain the most recent information with the visa office at the Turk consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance coverage for Turkey

Health cover is one of the major factors travellers get travel insurance. It will not stop you getting ill or injured, though it can stop you being affected financially. Medical assistance overseas can be really expensive.

You should shell out for all medical care you receive overseas. You can not expect to get free or subsidised treatment through your Turkey’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can’t pay, local authorities might jail you. The government from your home country can not pay you health care bill for you, loan you money or get you out of jail.

You need travel insurance for travelling to Turkey . You also need to make certain you pick a plan that is right for you.

Read the small print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance firm upfront. If you do not, you might void your travel insurance policy.

Tell your travel insurance company the activities you intend to do, prior to you go. Many common activities like snowboarding are left out in standard plans. You may need to pay additional.

Check if you have complimentary credit card travel insurance coverage. Some cards include travel insurance coverage cover. Nevertheless, they commonly have different conditions than paid plans. Understand the differences.

If you’re visiting Turkey from a country that has a reciprocal health care agreement, you still need travel medical insurance. Agreements are limited in what they’ll will cover.

If you have an incurable disease, you might not have the ability to obtain standard travel insurance policy. Nevertheless you might have the ability to get a specialised insurance company that covers you for health, accidents or property troubles unassociated to your disease. Talk with your insurance provider to find out.

Learn more about getting global travel insurance policy for Turkey before you go.

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Britons warned about holidaying in Turkey as tourists are told to 'be extra vigilant'

The Government warned Britons to remain vigilant when visiting a popular tourist destination

By Anna Barry

Published: 13/02/2024

Updated: 23/02/2024

Britons heading to popular holiday hotspot Turkey have been warned about potential dangers

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Whether you're after a beach holiday, glorious resort stay or city break filled with food and fabulous landmarks, Turkey has it all.

The beautiful country, which is partly located in Europe and partly in Asia, is very popular among Britons. However, holidaymakers have been issued a warning with regards to their safety in the country.

The UK Government updated its Turkey travel advice, with updated information on 2023 crime statistics, as well as comments about the nation and flag.

Sexual assault

GOV.UK stated: "In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff in Turkey. Most sexual assault cases reported to British consular staff in Turkey have happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas.

"Many were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel workers. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations."

Do you have a travel story you'd like to share? Contact our team by emailing [email protected].

Istanbul boasts beautiful landmarks, exceptional views, delicious food and a vibrant culture

GETTY IMAGES

Britons should also be aware of street robberies and pick-pocketing, which are" common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul".

Tourists were also warned about drink and food spiking. Holidaymakers must beware of strangers offering them food and drink, to change money, or to take them to a restaurant or club.

GOV.UK also warned that in a small number of cases, counterfeit alcohol has caused the death of tourists. Britons were urged to seek advice from their tour operator or the Turkish authorities if they have any concerns.

Tourists to Turkey were also advised to take registered taxis rather than accept lifts from strangers. Ensure that you note the registration number before getting in a taxi.

Comments about the nation and flag

GOV.UK said: "It is illegal to insult the Turkish nation, state or the national flag, or to deface Turkish currency. These laws can also apply to comments or images online wherever they were uploaded. "Offences under these laws carry a penalty in Turkey of a prison sentence of between six months and three years."

Britons should be aware of other risk factors if they plan on visiting Turkey, one being terrorism.

The Government warned: "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. You should remain vigilant at all times."

For information on how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad, Britons can consult GOV.UK.

GOV.UK said: "Most terrorist attacks have happened in Southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. Citizens from Western countries may be targets or caught up in attacks, particularly in major cities.

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Britons have also been given updated travel advice to Cyprus regarding airport arrival and political demonstration risks

Terrorists may target places visited by foreigners, such as public buildings, places of worship, major events and large public gatherings.

Holidaymakers should follow the advice of the local security authorities, monitor media reports and cooperate fully with security officials at airports.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria, all but essential travel to Sirnak (city), and all but essential travel to Hakkari province.

For more information on the Government's advice for travel in Turkey, consult GOV.UK. This will include guidance on terrorism, the political situation, crime, laws and cultural differences, outdoor activities and adventure tourism, transport risks, and extreme weather and natural disasters.

Britons have also been given a warning about another popular tourist destination as "tensions heighten".

Tourists were given updated airport arrival guidance and information on political demonstration risks.

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Is it safe to travel to Turkey? Latest FCDO travel advice explained as earthquake death toll rises

The fcdo has updated its travel advice for turkey, after a devastating earthquake struck in the popular british tourist destination.

The death toll from a devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria has now passed 35,000 , making it one of the world’s worst natural disasters in the past decade .

In the early hours of Monday 6 February, a powerful 7.8 magnitude quake hit Gaziantep in the south-east of Turkey .

This was followed by another 7.5 magnitude tremor in the neighbouring province of Kahramanmaras later that day.

Thousands of rescue teams searched for survivors among the rubble of decimated towns and cities in south-eastern Turkey and northern Syria, with the UN warning that the death toll is likely to climb far higher .

The Turkish government has declared a national emergency in 10 provinces affected by the earthquake :

• Kahramanmaras

Here’s everything you need to know if you were planning to travel to Turkey from the UK .

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Following the earthquakes, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated its guidance for people visiting Turkey from the UK.

It advises: “The Turkish government has stated that only vehicles which carry aid teams and aid materials will be allowed to enter cities deemed to be inside the area of the disaster.

“If you are in the affected area, you should exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities.”

For people who require consular assistance, the FCDO has a 24-hour helpline you can contact at +90 312 455 3344, selecting the option of “consular services for British nationals”. It also has a web contact form, which you can access here .

More on Turkey-Syria earthquake

The FCDO also directs UK travellers to AFAD, the Turkish disaster management service, which operates a series of regional hubs.

There is a list of the specific local contact numbers on the FCDO website, which you can find here , while calls to Turkish emergency services on 112 will also redirect to AFAD.

As part of its more general guidance the FCDO advises against all travel to areas within 10km of the border with Syria, which has been ravaged by civil war for much of the past decade.

The body also advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak and the province of Hakkari, which is near the Iraq border.

It adds that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey” with a risk of “indiscriminate” strikes.

However, the FCDO also states: “Most visits are trouble free. Be alert to your surroundings and remain vigilant in crowded places popular with foreign nationals, including during festival periods.”

Have flights or holidays been cancelled?

Despite the devastation, the earthquakes and their aftershocks did not affect the main tourist areas that are popular among British holidaymakers.

As a result, no flights or package trips from the UK to Turkey were cancelled in the aftermath of the quakes, with Jet2, Hays Travel and Thomas Cook confirming to i that there have not been cancellations.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, the UK’s largest network of independent travel agents, said: “The UK Foreign Office advice to British travellers in Turkey is to avoid the affected areas and to listen to the advice of local authorities.

“At this time, no flights have been cancelled from UK airlines. Anyone wanting to discuss travel to Turkey can call their local agent for further advice.”

Airports in the south-east of Turkey closed after the disaster, including Adana Sakirpasa Airport in the southern province of Adana, Hatay Airport in Hatay Province, and Gaziantep Oğuzeli Airport in Gaziantep.

Ashley Quint, director of the TimeTravel World travel agency, said it was not a particularly busy time of year for UK tourism to Turkey.

He recommended holidaymakers who are concerned about trips to Turkey to speak to their travel agent, tour operator or airline, especially if travelling imminently.

“Unless travelling to Gaziantep or Adana, it’s unlikely either will offer additional flexibility, unless there is specific threat of aftershocks elsewhere and/or the FCDO advice changes,” he added.

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UK embarks on post-Brexit trade talks with Turkey

Talks offer ‘huge opportunities’ but come at a delicate time after Ankara held up Sweden’s accession to Nato

The UK and Turkey have started talks about a post-Brexit free trade agreement targeting the service sector of the economy.

The UK government said there were “huge opportunities” for British businesses in exporting to Turkey, as one of the fastest-growing economies in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development group of nations, with trade between the two countries worth £26bn in 2022.

Ministers had announced in July last year their intention to hold trade talks with Turkey, and last November began months of consultation with businesses and trade groups over the UK’s priorities for an agreement.

The government said UK businesses including Deloitte, Diageo and Vodafone had helped to shape negotiation objectives through a public call for input, before the first round of detailed discussions scheduled for the summer.

The talks come at a delicate moment in ties between Turkey and western governments after the Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan , who holds warmer relations with Russia than other Nato member states, held up the progress of Sweden’s membership until his government granted its backing in January.

Kemi Badenoch, the UK trade secretary, said Turkey was an “important economic and strategic partner” and that a trade deal could help boost exports of British services.

Badenoch launched the talks in London on Thursday alongside her Turkish counterpart, Ömer Bolat.

A deal could also give British consumers improved choice and better access to imported Turkish goods such as nuts, bulgar wheat and tomatoes, the government said.

Britain already has a trade deal with Turkey, which was rolled over after Brexit in a continuity agreement to minimise disruption. Before leaving the EU, the UK benefited from trading with Turkey through an EU-Turkey customs union.

Turkey had launched membership talks with the EU in 2005, but the accession process and efforts to expand its customs deal have since stalled amid concerns in EU capitals over the gradual erosion of democracy under Erdoğan.

While Turkey’s economy has grown at a rapid pace over Erdoğan’s 20 years in power, it has also been rocked by successive crises, including bouts of galloping inflation and crashes in the Turkish lira triggered by the president’s unorthodox stance on economic policy.

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The UK government said Turkey presented significant opportunities for British businesses, including in transport, engineering, financial services, manufacturing and tech, driven in part by the country’s decarbonisation efforts and significant investment in rail.

It said the deal would focus on the UK’s strengths in services, which make up 80% of GDP, while highlighting that in 2020 there were 57,000 UK jobs supported by exports to Turkey, of which 68% were in services.

“An upgraded deal will give the UK’s world-leading services sector a competitive edge in this growing market and has the potential to support jobs across the UK,” Badenoch said.

• International trade
• Services sector
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