Istanbul is a magical city straddling two continents, but its bustling streets harbour some well-practised scams targeting tourists. From the Grand Bazaar to Sultanahmet, here's what to watch out for.
The Shoe Shine Drop Scam
This is Istanbul's most iconic scam. A shoe shiner "accidentally" drops his brush near you. When you helpfully pick it up or call out to him, he insists on shining your shoes as a thank-you — then demands an outrageous payment.
How to avoid it: - Don't pick up or draw attention to dropped brushes - If a shoe shiner approaches uninvited, firmly say "Hayır, teşekkürler" (No, thank you) - Walk away immediately — don't engage
The Friendly Local / Bar Scam
A well-dressed, English-speaking man strikes up a friendly conversation. After chatting, he suggests going to a "great bar" he knows. You're led to a clip joint where drinks cost hundreds of dollars, and intimidating bouncers ensure you pay.
How to avoid it: - Be wary of overly friendly strangers who approach you on the street - Never let a stranger choose your bar or restaurant - If you do end up somewhere suspicious, check prices before ordering - This scam primarily targets solo male travellers
The Carpet Shop Invitation
"My friend, come have some tea!" Carpet sellers near tourist areas are experts at luring visitors inside for "just a chat and tea." Before long, you're watching a carpet demonstration and facing intense pressure to buy.
How to avoid it: - Politely decline invitations from strangers - If you genuinely want to buy a carpet, research shops beforehand - Never feel obligated to buy because you accepted tea - A firm "No, thank you" is perfectly acceptable
Grand Bazaar Overpricing
The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit, but many vendors start at 10x the fair price for tourists.
Smart shopping tips: - Research prices online before visiting - Start bargaining at 25-30% of the asking price - Be prepared to walk away — the best deals happen at the door - Compare prices at multiple stalls before buying - Gold and silver are sold by weight — check the daily rate - Don't buy "antiques" — most are reproductions
The Restaurant Bait and Switch
Some restaurants near Sultanahmet and Taksim show you a menu with reasonable prices, then bring a different bill. Or they bring unrequested side dishes, bread, and dips — all charged separately.
How to avoid it: - Photograph the menu before ordering - Ask specifically whether bread and sides are free - Check your bill carefully before paying - Eat where locals eat — walk a few blocks from tourist sites - Check Google Maps reviews before sitting down
The Taxi Long Route Scam
Istanbul taxi drivers may take unnecessarily long routes, especially from the airport or when they detect you're a tourist.
How to avoid it: - Use BiTaksi app for transparent pricing - Follow your route on Google Maps - Ensure the meter is running (starts at approximately 20 TL) - From Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet should cost 250-350 TL - Use the metro or Havaist bus from the airport for a fixed price
The Fake Police Scam
People posing as plainclothes police approach tourists and demand to see their wallet "to check for counterfeit money." They then take your cash.
How to avoid it: - Real police will never ask to inspect your wallet on the street - Ask to see official ID and suggest going to the nearest police station - Call 155 (police) if you're unsure whether someone is legitimate
Sultanahmet "Closed Mosque" Scam
Someone tells you the Blue Mosque is closed and offers to take you to a "special" mosque or shop instead. The mosque is almost never closed during visiting hours.
How to avoid it: - Check visiting hours independently (usually open outside prayer times) - Ignore anyone outside the mosque offering "alternatives" - Enter through official entrances only
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 155
- Tourist Police: 0212 527 4503
- Emergency: 112
- Report online: Avoid Travel Scams
Final Tips
- Istanbul is generally very safe for tourists — violent crime against visitors is rare
- Most locals are genuinely friendly and hospitable
- Learn basic Turkish phrases — locals appreciate the effort
- Keep your valuables in a front crossbody bag on crowded streets
- Download BiTaksi and Google Maps offline before arriving
- Carry a business card from your hotel in case you get lost
Istanbul's beauty, history, and culture are worth every visit. Stay alert to these scams, and you'll have an unforgettable experience.
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