Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Turkey or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
While violent crime is rare, ATM skimming and opportunistic theft do occur. For evening withdrawals, I recommend: 1) Using your hotel's ATM if available 2) Withdrawing from Halkbank or Ziraat Bank ATMs which have better security 3) Going with another traveler if possible 4) Keeping small bills in your room for evening needs. The most important thing is trusting your instincts - if an area feels unsafe, wait until morning.
Additional safety tips mentioned across responses:
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN regardless of time
Complete transactions quickly and avoid counting money at the machine
Have a backup card stored separately in case of theft
Consider using mobile payment options to reduce need for cash
Be extra cautious on weekend nights when more people are out drinking
Daytime alternatives suggested:
Withdraw money during lunch hours when areas are busiest
Use ATMs inside airports or major transit hubs
Visit bank branches during operating hours for maximum security
Get cash back at supermarkets during daytime shopping
Remember that while Turkey is generally safe, taking precautions as a solo female traveler is always wise when handling money after dark.
I've used ATMs at all hours across Turkey without issues, but as a solo traveler, I take precautions: 1) Only use ATMs in areas with steady foot traffic 2) Avoid wearing headphones so you stay aware of surroundings 3) Have your card ready before approaching the machine. The Akbank ATMs near major metro stations are my go-to for evening withdrawals as they're well-lit and monitored.Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Turkey or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
The safety depends entirely on location. In tourist areas like Sultanahmet or upscale neighborhoods like Nisantasi, even late-night ATM use is relatively safe. However, I'd avoid standalone ATMs in quieter side streets after 10pm. Opt for machines inside shopping malls (open until 10pm) or major hotels where security is present. Turkish banks like Is Bankasi usually have well-monitored ATMs that are safer options after dark.
As a woman who frequently travels alone in Turkey, I recommend sticking to daytime ATM use when possible. While central areas in Istanbul (like Taksim or Kadikoy) are generally safe for evening withdrawals, I've had uncomfortable experiences with men lingering near ATMs after dark. If you must withdraw at night, use ATMs inside well-lit supermarkets like Migros or inside bank vestibules (Garanti and Yapi Kredi branches often have 24-hour lobbies).
Ziraat Bank in Turkey worked smoothly with my Visa Debit card. No issues and felt safe to use at night.
Halkbank ATM in Turkey worked perfectly with my Visa Debit card. Reliable and felt secure even after dark.
Ziraat Bank ATM in Turkey worked perfectly. No issues, and the spot felt secure after dark.
Used Ziraat Bank in Turkey - perfect experience. Smooth withdrawal and felt safe at the location, even at night.