Although Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world, Westerners have a lot of common misconceptions about Turkey.

These beliefs make people wary of visiting the country. People who let these common misconceptions stop them from visiting Turkey miss out on the beauty and history of the nation. A quick search would tell them that these myths are just that: myths.

So, what are the common misconceptions about Turkey, and what’s the truth?

10 Common Myths About Turkey
----------------------------

### 1\. Turkey Is Dangerous

The most common misconception about Turkey is that the country is dangerous. Western media has painted the country as a terrible place to visit with daily acts of terror, which isn’t the case.

For the most part, [Turkey is a peaceful place](/posts/is-turkey-safe) to visit. Most crime is related to domestic violence and spousal disputes, which means that tourists only have to worry about [tourist](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul) and [taxi scams](/posts/common-taxi-scams-turkey).

The only dangerous part of Turkey is near the Syrian border. Tourists and locals avoid the country’s southern border due to the violent disputes that can cross into Turkey.

Luckily, this danger is contained. Tourists are heavily warned against visiting the southern part of the country, with most organizations focusing their tourism in the north of the country.

As long as you watch your bag and don’t get in [unmetered taxis](/posts/common-taxi-scams-turkey), you’ll be safe following any Turkish itinerary in the north.

### 2\. Istanbul Is The Capital City

Although Istanbul is the best-known city in Turkey, it isn’t the country’s capital. [Istanbul was the capital of Turkey until 1923](https://www.britannica.com/place/Istanbul), back when it was still called Constantinople. 

After the Turkish war for independence, the capital was moved to Ankara. 

Much like Toronto in Canada, many people assume that Istanbul is the country’s capital since it is the most populous city in the country. This common misconception leads to more people [visiting Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting) than Ankara each year.

[Ankara should not be missed](/posts/best-day-trips-from-istanbul). It holds monuments of great historical significance to Turkey, like the tomb of Ataturk - the man who helped change the capital of Turkey.

### 3\. Turkey Is Named For the Bird

That bird you get for Thanksgiving did not give the country its name.

Turkey means “land of the Turks,” which referred to the people who lived in the Anatolia region. This was long before the discovery of the New World and the bird we now call the turkey.

The bird actually gets its name from the country in another misconception. There was a bird in Turkey, a brown guinea fowl, that the [Europeans named after the country where they were introduced to it.](https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/how-did-turkey-get-its-name/3608820.html#:~:text=The%20word%20%E2%80%9CTurkey%E2%80%9D%20has%20meant,bird%20called%20the%20guinea%20fowl.) When they found the modern turkey in the New World, they assumed it was the same bird and named it the “turkey.” 

Although the country gave the bird its name, they actually have no connection. Ironically, the Turkish people call the same bird the “Hindi” because of the misconception that North America was actually Eastern Asia.

### 4\. The Country Is a Desert

Many people assume that Turkey is a desert country filled with sand and camels.

In reality, there are no deserts in Turkey. The land is incredibly lush, filled with sprawling grass fields covered in ancient ruins.

You won’t find any native camels in the country either. All of the camels in Turkey have been imported for tourists who expect a camel ride in the desert in Turkey.

Perhaps the photos of [Cappadocia](/posts/best-things-to-do-cappadocia) and the brown columns of the Fairy Chimneys beneath [hot air balloons](/posts/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia-things-to-know) aided the confusion. 

Likely, the misconception came from the idea that all Middle Eastern countries are deserts.

### 5\. Turkey is an Arabic Nation

There is a double misconception in the idea that Turkey is a desert because the country isn’t actually Arabic.

Although [98.6% of the population is Muslim](https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/most-heavily-muslim-countries-on-earth/17/), Turkey is a secular nation with no religious requirements for its citizens.

This is why, while you’ll find mosques and calls to prayer throughout Turkey, you’ll also find alcohol and nightclubs.

Some smaller towns participate in Ramadan across the area, including changing store hours and [not selling alcohol](/posts/drinking-alcohol-in-turkey). Most major cities aren’t impacted by religious holidays or Islamic dietary requirements.

### 6\. Turkey Is Very Conservative

The misconception that Turkey is a very conservative country comes from the assumption that it’s an Arabic country. People believe that the country enforces [specific dress](/posts/what-to-wear-in-turkey) and behavior based on Islamic beliefs, which many Westerners would consider strict or conservative.

Actually, Turkey is a very liberal nation. There are few cultural rules that foreigners need to follow to respect the nation’s beliefs.

Although the [country allows alcohol](/posts/drinking-alcohol-in-turkey), just as in most places, getting overly drunk is frowned upon.

Turkish women have a lot of freedom and are not controlled by their husbands. The nation’s gender dynamics may seem more conservative than in Western society, but the country is viewed as very liberal in the Islamic belief system.

You will find some conservative pockets of the country, especially in small towns, where people will not understand unmarried couples sharing rooms or women dressing in revealing clothing.

In major cities, no one will question you sharing a room with your boyfriend, which is considered unusual for such a predominantly-Muslim country.

### 7\. All Women Wear Burkas

People assume that Turkey is conservative and that women must wear burkas - including visitors. That is not the case.

Women in Turkey are [free to choose how they would like to dress](/posts/what-to-wear-in-turkey). Under their Islamic beliefs, they do not wear revealing clothing, but many wear Western clothes.

Turkish women often opt to cover their heads as a sign of respect. Female tourists do not have to do the same unless they are [visiting a mosque](/posts/mosques-to-see-istanbul).

Many female tourists assume that they will need to dress in a burka or wear a headdress at all times to fit in. Actually, they only need to wear modest, loose clothing to show respect for the citizen’s different religious beliefs.

### 8\. People Wear Fezzes Daily

The belief that modern people in Turkey wear the Fez seems to come from outdated movies.

The Fez was a historic piece of dress from the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century as part of a military uniform. It was a reaction to the European army’s outfits and strategies, which the Turks took inspiration from. They needed a unique moniker to set them apart, which led to the creation of the Fez.

Nowadays, you’ll see the Fez in tourist districts for visitors to purchase or photograph.

In reality, Turkish people do not wear the Fez in their day-to-day life. They wear modern clothing that would not attract tourists the way that the Fez does, which is why it has continued to be worn in [tourist districts](/posts/how-to-spend-24-hours-in-istanbul).

### 9\. Turkish Men Practice Polygamy

It is a common misconception that Turkish men marry multiple wives as part of their Islamic faith. This idea probably came from Western society’s ignorance of the Muslim belief system.

In reality, Turkish men practice monogamy, meaning that they marry one wife, like Western society.

The fear created by Western media about Muslims has led to a number of these claims that are not based in reality but impact peoples’ views. 

### 10\. Turkey Isn’t Modern 

There is a common misconception that Turkey isn’t a modern country. This belief probably connects to the idea that it is mostly desert and camels, with people still wearing 19th century Fez around the country. Or the belief that Muslim people are not as advanced as the West.

Turkey is a modern country with all of the advances in most European countries. Istanbul has an incredible metro system that [makes the city very accessible](/posts/best-way-get-around-istanbul). Most places in the country have internet access, with hotspots at cafes like in any other country.

Although Turkey has its own [unique sense of history and culture](/posts/what-to-know-before-visiting-turkey), you will find the trappings of modern life throughout the country.

Closing Thoughts
----------------

Most of the common misconceptions about Turkey originate from one myth: that Turkey is an Arabic nation. This spawns beliefs that the country is not modern, [is dangerous](/posts/is-turkey-safe), and requires strict dress codes for women.

Once you look past these misconceptions and see their faulty roots, you’ll be able to see the reality of Turkey. The array of historical sites and the country’s rich culture will overpower these ignorant myths and inspire you to book a visit to Turkey.

istanbul-skyline-large.jpg

Debunking common misconceptions about Turkey and exploring the truth behind them. Discover the beauty and history of this popular tourist destination.

Common Misconceptions About Turkey (10 Myths)

Istanbul is a must-see city for anyone visiting Turkey. Fortunately for travelers, it’s also the gateway to many of the [best destinations in Turkey](/posts/best-place-in-turkey-for-families). Discover the best day trips from Istanbul to enhance your Turkish travel itinerary.

Although Istanbul has been the center of Turkish trading and culture, it isn’t the only location rich in culture, beauty, and history. Venture beyond Turkey’s biggest city to find beautiful beach towns, wonders of the world, and historic battle sites. Your bucket list in Turkey is sure to grow when you discover the fascinating attractions waiting for you outside of Istanbul.

So, what are the best day trips from Istanbul?

7 Amazing Trips From Istanbul
-----------------------------

### Boating Day Trips

With its position on the Bosphorus, Istanbul offers access to incredible day trips via boats.

#### 1\. Princes’ Islands / Adalar

![princes islands istanbul panoramic view](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840864/princes_islands_istanbul_large_79bf526e93.jpg)

The Princes’ Islands are a short boat ride from Istanbul but offer a completely different atmosphere from the busy city.

Catch the ferry from Kabataş for half an hour to find yourself among these gorgeous little islands. You can select the type of day trip you’d like and find an island to fit your style. The Princes’ Islands have white sand beaches, towering forests, and old-world charm with traditional Ottoman-style houses along the shores.

These islands are a favorite of Istanbul locals who need a break from city life and the permanent traffic. They take day trips out to these islands to breathe in the fresh air, have delicious seafood, and move at a slower pace.

Join them by relaxing on a beach at Heybeliada Island. Go back in time at Büyükada Island with its history museum. 

#### 2\. Golden Horn / Haliç

![golden horn panoramic view istanbul](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840863/golden_horn_istanbul_large_69557e9a04.jpg)

The Golden Horn isn’t actually a single place to visit. Rather, it’s a notable feature of the Bosphorus that set Istanbul up to be the booming city it is. Historically, the Golden Horn was a crucial port for the shipping and trading industry.

You can still visit this essential port while [exploring the monuments of the nearby districts](/posts/unusual-things-to-do-istanbul).

Hop on a ferry cruise to tour your way up the Bosphorus to the Golden Horn. Hop off at Hasköy to visit the famous Aynalıkavak Kasrı pavilion and [the 500-year-old Eyüp Mosque](/posts/mosques-to-see-istanbul). You’ll be taken aback by the historic architecture set against the backdrop of the Bosphorus. 

### Driving Day Trips

Istanbul is located within easy driving distance of some of the most famous historical sites in the world. Be sure to include them when you’re planning your day trips from Istanbul.

#### 3\. Gallipoli / Gelibolu

![canakkale martyrs memorial in turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840861/canakkale_martyrs_memorial_large_5e0b52c72d.jpg)

Gallipoli is the famous site of the World War I battle between the Anzac and the Turkish armies. The area has been dedicated to commemorating the fallen soldiers with specific memorials to fallen soldiers from each nation.

Even if you aren’t a history buff, you’ll want to visit this historical location for the stunning beauty of Anzac Cove and the white marble memorials that keep the tragedies of the battle with us.

Although Gallipoli is a short car ride away and can be navigated on your own, it’s best to join a tour to get more information about the battles and how they affected Turkish history.

If you’re in Turkey for Anzac Day, be sure to plan a day trip from Istanbul to Gallipoli to take part in the memorial celebration that happens every year. You’ll see the very nations who battled years ago united in the memory of the fallen.

#### 4\. Troy / Truva & Çanakkale

![ancient troy ruins in canakkale turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840866/ancient_troy_ruins_large_fdc3e74eb1.jpg)

History and mythology buffs will already have Troy at the top of their bucket list. It’s one of the most famous ancient sites in the world, thanks in large part to the mythology surrounding it.

Don’t miss a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site to tour the very walls the Trojan horse is said to have passed through.

Take a guided tour to learn the significance of the ruined walls and the Temple of Athena. You’ll discover that there were multiple builds of the city that have been slowly uncovered through the centuries. Guides even give insights into battle strategies and how the sloped city walls thwarted enemy battering rams.

Once you’ve visited the historic site, head to Çanakkale, the nearest city center, to see a giant Trojan horse monument for visitors.

You’ll be drawn to turn your day trip into an overnight adventure when you learn about the city’s developed nightlife.

### Flying Day Trips

Save on driving time and book cheap flights to explore further regions of the country on short day trips.

#### 5\. Pamukkale

![pamukkale travertines in denizli turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840865/pamukkale_large_0da3ad245e.jpg)

Pamukkale may be the most photographed natural feature in Turkey. The white thermal pool terraces that cascade onto one another as they pour down a mountainside are not to be missed.

Pack your camera and your bathing suit to visit this hugely popular Turkish attraction. Be prepared for your feet to get wet as you traverse the pools and make your way through the crystal blue water.

Beyond the pools, Pamukkale is the site of the Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis that provides a stunning historical backdrop to this natural wonder. You can explore historic tombs and walk along the ancient city roads before heading back to soak at the hilltop thermal baths.

Don’t miss this ultimate day trip. Book a 2-hour [plane ride from Istanbul](/posts/which-istanbul-airport) to access this one-of-a-kind location. 

#### 6\. Ankara

![ankara castle at night with full moon](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840867/ankara_at_night_large_141fe64725.jpg)

Although Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, [it actually isn’t the capital](/posts/common-misconceptions-turkey). Ankara is Turkey’s capital city that lies in the center of the Anatolia region. Although you can access it in a day, you’ll spend most of your time driving. Save 5 hours to view the city by catching a 1-hour flight from Istanbul.

While you’re in Ankara, be sure to visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. You’ll learn about how he changed Turkish society and government while wandering through gorgeous marble halls.

Don’t forget to visit the Old Quarter to wander past red-roofed houses. Get a unique view of the city from Atakule Tower, the highest viewpoint in the city.

There’s plenty to do in the country’s capital. You’ll find it completely different and yet just as captivating as Istanbul.

#### 7\. Ephesus

![ephesus ruins in izmir turkey with a rainbow](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840862/ephesus_large_3c24a5151e.jpg)

Ephesus can be accessed by driving or flying from Istanbul, but you’ll save time to explore if you fly.

Ephesus is the site of an ancient Greek city. It’s one of the most well-preserved cities on Earth, with ancient monuments still towering in all their glory.

You can walk the streets of the Ancient Greeks, view an amphitheater that is built into the base mountainside, and see where the Virgin Mary supposedly spent her last days. Without a doubt, you’ll spot some of the famous Ephesus [cats that roam](/posts/why-cats-istanbul) the ruins of the library and wait happily for human attention.

Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through an Ancient Greek town.

Closing Thoughts
----------------

[Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting) is at the top of most bucket lists, but don’t forget about the other wonders Turkey has to offer. Take advantage of the best day trips from Istanbul to discover natural wonders, world-changing history and walk in the footsteps of the ancient world.

Expand your Turkish visit to see more of the country’s natural beauty and historic homes by venturing outside of the largest city.

buyukada-aerial-large.jpg

Explore the best day trips from Istanbul to discover beautiful beach towns, wonders of the world, and historic battle sites outside of the city.

7 Amazing Day Trips From Istanbul

Turkey has been deemed unsafe for travel by Western media sources due to past violence and the country’s religion. Luckily, this hasn’t slowed tourism in Turkey. Tourists have learned that all you need are travel safety tips for Turkey to help you have an incredible vacation.

Turkey is an incredibly safe country for visitors, with lots of police and most crime being domestic. The biggest threats to tourists are scams and pickpocketing, a common crime around tourist sites.

So, what are the best travel safety tips to help you have an incredible visit to Turkey?

6 Travel Safety Tips for Turkey
-------------------------------

### 1\. Respect Turkish Culture

[Respecting the local culture](/posts/dos-and-donts-for-turkey) is a top safety tip for travel anywhere in the world. If you don’t understand the culture, you won’t know if your actions will offend someone.

While officially secular, the predominant religion in Turkey is Islamic. Some areas, like Istanbul, are more liberal, but many small towns around the country are very conservative. [Research your destinations](/posts/what-to-know-before-visiting-turkey) to learn how strongly they adhere to Islamic holidays like Ramadan or [whether or not they sell alcohol](/posts/drinking-alcohol-in-turkey).

In Turkey, overt public displays of affection are frowned upon. You’ll draw more attention than you’d like if you’re engaging in PDA on public streets. Hand holding or a small kiss is alright but refrain from going beyond that. Save the affection for behind closed doors.

If you’re visiting conservative regions, you may have to pretend you and your partner are married in order to share a room. It depends on your host, but be prepared with the excuse, or you may end up sleeping in separate rooms. 

Women are safer [wearing loose-fitting, conservative clothing](/posts/what-to-wear-in-turkey) throughout Turkey. Avoid attracting attention with flowy dresses and high-necked tops to feel safer while visiting Turkey.

Reading up on Turkish culture and Islamic beliefs will help you learn how to respect the country’s traditions when you visit.

### 2\. Watch Out for Scams

Scams are a classic issue in [popular tourist destinations](/posts/how-to-spend-24-hours-in-istanbul). Whether they are restauranteurs overcharging tourists or pickpockets, you’ll find scams around the world. 

Turkey isn’t immune.

Outsmart the scam artists [by learning how they operate in the country](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul).

Pickpockets are the most common type of criminals in Turkey. They frequent popular tourist destinations and steal your belongings when you’re distracted. Busy areas like the bazaar make it easy for them to take your items undetected.

Keep yourself safe by watching your belongings when you are touring the country. Keep a hand on your bag and avoid flashy items that will attract pickpockets. Leave your diamonds at home and avoid designer labels that show wealth.

The second most common scam in Turkey [involves taxis](/posts/common-taxi-scams-turkey). Taxi drivers will claim that their meter isn’t working and then will overcharge you when you reach your destination. They’ll even do this if you’ve agreed to a price ahead of time.

Make sure your taxi has a working meter before you agree to a ride. Don’t let your driver take you on the scenic route, a classic scam that will allow them to drive up the meter and take more of your money.

Ask your hotel to help you book taxis to make it less likely that you’ll get scammed by the drivers.

If you are still in doubt, you can always rely on travel insurance. Some travel insurance providers may even offer fraud/scam coverage up to a certain amount.

Remember to always buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Turkey, just to be safe!

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### 3\. Avoid the Syrian Border

Although [most of Turkey is peaceful](/posts/is-turkey-safe), the southern border is a dangerous spot for visitors.

Unfortunately, the violence of the civil war in Syria has started to spill over the southern border of Turkey. There have been terrorist attacks and political issues regarding the border. Most of the violence is focused on Turkish residents, but it’s best to avoid the region altogether to stay safe.

This violence is one of the main reasons that Western media paints Turkey as a dangerous place to visit. It led to a huge decrease in tourism that severely impacted the Turkish people that rely on tourism for their livelihood.

Luckily, [the media has it wrong](/posts/common-misconceptions-turkey), and most of Turkey is still safe for visitors. In fact, guides go out of their way to protect tourists by telling them which areas to avoid and only running tours through the northern half of the country. 

Plan your trip around the beautiful areas in Northern Turkey, like [Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting) and Ankara. There’s more than enough history, culture, and beautiful spots for you to fill your Turkish itinerary with. 

### 4\. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

While [tap water is 100% safe in large cities like Istanbul](/posts/tap-water-turkey-safe-to-drink), it doesn’t taste very good. However, the water doesn’t taste so good due to its mineral content. Locals opt for bottled water since they prefer the taste. It is advised that tourists drink bottled water to avoid stomach irritation from minerals they aren’t used to.

In smaller towns in Turkey, it isn’t safe to drink tap water. Although this is disappointing for sustainable travelers, it is safer to buy plastic bottles of water rather than drinking tap water.

Leave your reusable water bottles at home for your Turkey travels. You won’t be able to use them except for getting water to wash your hands or boots.

You can get bottled water easily throughout the country. All tour bus stops carry it, most hostels offer complementary bottles for guests, and large bottles can be found at grocery stores.

Use bottled water for brushing your teeth and washing your face to avoid the chance of consuming some of the tap water in small towns. In large cities, it’s safe to use tap water for cleaning and even cooking. 

### 5\. Use Common Sense

The easiest way to travel safely in Turkey is to use your common sense. Even though you’re on vacation, you still have to be aware of your surroundings. Don’t make choices you wouldn’t make at home. If you’re [traveling alone](/posts/istanbul-safe-solo-female-travelers), you’ll need to take extra precautions to ensure your safety.

Avoid obviously dangerous activities like walking alone late at night down alleys, drinking too much, getting violent, or causing destruction. [If you decide to drink](/posts/drinking-alcohol-in-turkey), don’t overdo it. Turkey doesn't always have the high-powered drinking culture of Western cultures, so overindulging is viewed negatively.

Although it’s safe to walk alone in Turkey in most cases, avoid dark areas. Parks are especially dangerous at night, as they do not have street lights. Stick to main areas that are well lit if you have to go out at night.

Turkey has a lot of sun. Remember to [dress appropriately](/posts/what-to-wear-in-turkey) by wearing sunscreen, hats, and carrying water. Don’t ruin your vacation with a bad sunburn or dehydration.

Check the weather before your vacation to ensure you have clothes for whatever weather the country has during your visit. 

Turkish hotel names and streets can be difficult for tourists to remember. Ask your accommodation for a business card with their address before you head out to tour. It’ll help you - or a taxi driver who is taking you back - find your accommodation later.

### 6\. Be Confident

Being confident is the [easiest way to travel safely](/posts/is-istanbul-safe). This tip is all about being prepared and acting like you know what you’re doing, even if you don’t.

Know where you’re going before you leave your hotel. Pre-plan your route to avoid getting lost and staring at a map in the street. That’s a sure sign to locals that you’re foreign and could make you a target for scams.

Some Turkish cities like [Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting) are known for their winding streets. Download an offline map so you can [check where you’re going](/posts/best-way-get-around-istanbul) without looking obviously lost. 

If you’re lost, don’t stand there confused. Ask local shop owners or cafe owners for help.

Fake confidence is key when traveling. Walk with your head held high, as if you know where you’re going. Know a few of the local words to help you feel comfortable communicating with the locals. Be firm when you feel uncomfortable. Leave the situation or immediately get help.

Confidence will help you travel safely throughout Turkey.

Closing Thoughts
----------------

[Turkey is a safe country](/posts/is-turkey-safe) for tourists to visit. Learn the top travel safety tips to ensure you have an incredible trip. Learn the culture, so you don’t offend the locals and [know if the tap water is safe](/posts/tap-water-turkey-safe-to-drink). Don’t [fall prey to scams](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul) or venture into dangerous parts of the country. Be confident, and you’ll have a safe visit to Turkey.

tourists-in-istanbul-large.jpg

Learn the top travel safety tips to ensure you have an incredible trip to Turkey. Respect the local culture, watch out for scams, avoid the Syrian border, don't drink the tap water, use common sense, and be confident.

6 Travel Safety Tips for Turkey

Istanbul is a popular center of culture, cuisine, and history on the Bosphorus. Unusually, it’s also overrun by cats. Tourists always ask why these cats are all over Istanbul.

So, why are there so many cats in Istanbul? **Istanbul is a predominantly-Muslim city, and in the Muslim religion, cats are sacred creatures. Historically, the city’s cats killed rats that brought disease and mice that ate the libraries’ books. Istanbul’s citizens valued them for their help and have continued to thank them by leaving them food.**

Let’s explore the historical and cultural reasons why there are so many cats in Istanbul.

How Cats Came To Istanbul
-------------------------

In 2019, [the New York Times estimated that over 125,000 cats were roaming free in Istanbul](https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/02/opinion/turkey-stray-dogs.html). To understand why there are so many cats now, we have to look at when cats first came to Turkey.

The first cat is said to have arrived during the [Ottoman Empire](https://theculturetrip.com/europe/turkey/articles/istanbuls-street-cats-the-infamous-four-legged-locals/) on a trading vessel. Sailors kept cats on their boats to kill rodents during their sea voyage. It seems some of the cats felt there was work to be done in Istanbul and disembarked.

And work they did. Throughout the centuries, cats have majorly impacted Turkish health and education.

The cats killed rats, mice, and other vermin that spread infection. They lowered rates of infection and kept the city cleaner.

As a port city, Istanbul was especially benefited by the arrival of the cats. They killed the rats that enjoyed the dampness of the city and spread diseases from the boats.

The vermin loved snacking on the paper of the libraries’ books. Cats killed off these pests and saved many books from becoming mouse droppings. Librarians adored the cats for their work protecting their expensive books.

Without these cats, Turkey may have suffered extreme cases of disease and would have lost much of its written wisdom.

The cats were valued for their ability to hunt and became a symbol of cleanliness in the city. People respected the cats for their assistance and came to see them as an integral part of Istanbul.

Now, when you [visit Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting), you’re certain to see a few cats exploring the city as their own. 

Cats As Sacred Animals
----------------------

Istanbul isn’t alone in its appreciation of cats. Cats are seen as sacred animals in Muslim cultures. Other Muslim cities, like Cairo, are well known for their cat populations.

In fact, Turkey’s cats may have arrived on Egyptian boats.

Both Istanbul and Cairo have cat celebrities who have helped increase tourism to the cities. You’ll find local cats with Instagram accounts or tourist guides that say you must take a photo of a local cat. Istanbul went viral with [#catsofIstanbul](https://twitter.com/hashtag/catsofistanbul?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Ehashtag), where visitors were sharing photos of the local cats.

Why do Islamic people believe cats are sacred? There are many stories of the Prophet Muhammad interacting with cats. He is said to have had a fondness for cats.

The most well-known story of the Prophet’s connection to cats is tied to a blessing he gave to the species. Muhammad was nearly killed by a serpent when a cat saved his life by slaying the creature. To show his appreciation, Muhammad blessed the cat, giving all cats the ability to always land on their feet when they fall.

These texts also paint cats as ritually clean animals, in part because of their history of killing vermin. Muslims recognized the lowered infection rates that resulted from cats killing the mice and celebrated the felines for it.

The Unspoken Rule
-----------------

Visitors to Istanbul are often surprised at the state of the street cats. Aside from the sheer amount of them throughout the city, the cats are also well-cared for.

Unlike strays in the West, who are skinny and sometimes vicious, Istanbul’s street cats are plump with shiny coats and love attention from strangers. Although poorer districts have less well cared for street cats, most of the city’s cats are well cared for, like Western pets.

Who is caring for these cats?

**The entire city of Istanbul.** In Turkey, there is an unspoken rule amongst the citizens. To repay the cats for saving them from disease and protecting their books, the citizens take care of the cats. They provide them with food, water, and shelter whenever they can.

When you’re [walking through Istanbul](/posts/best-way-get-around-istanbul), keep an eye out for bowls on street corners where people have made offerings to the city’s feline guardians. The parks are especially popular as cat feeding zones. Be prepared to offer up the scraps of your picnic to appease the waiting cats.

So Turkey’s cats aren’t actually stray cats at all. They belong to everyone and no one. Everyone welcomes them. They aren’t seen as unwanted pests as many strays are viewed in the West. 

This care has tamed the city’s cats. Most don’t fear humans. They’ll approach you for pets and food whenever they please.

That’s why it’s important to learn how to treat cats in Istanbul. 

How To Treat Cats In Istanbul
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Even though cats are an essential part of Istanbul’s culture, they aren’t always treated properly. Until recently, animal rights laws in Turkey could only be enforced with a fine. Now, [if you hurt, kill, or neglect an animal in Turkey, you’ll get jail time.](https://www.trtworld.com/life/jail-time-to-replace-turkeys-paltry-animal-cruelty-penalties-343581#:~:text=Highlights%20from%20the%20draft%20law&text=Killing%20animals%20intentionally%2C%20cruel%20behaviour,to%203%20years%20in%20prison.)

It’s hard to believe with the famous Ephesus cats and the felines confidently wandering the Sultanahmet that people would mistreat these guardians.

The worst treatment the cats usually get is being yelled at by the fishermen on the Galata Bridge over the Golden Horn. Follow the shouts, and you’ll find a cat with one of the fishermen’s fresh catches clutched in its jaws.

Tourists have started to treat cats like living attractions to spot throughout the city. Keep an eye out to find the cats [in mosques](/posts/mosques-to-see-istanbul), stopping streetcars by ambling across the road, sunning on the banks of the Bosphorus, and demanding a spare piece of kebab from your lunch.

Istanbul is notorious for its bad drivers who don’t even stop for pedestrians. It says a lot about the city’s respect for cats that a street cat can bring traffic to a standstill.

Learn more about the life of Istanbul cats from [_Kedi_](https://www.kedifilm.com/), a documentary that followed the lives of seven of these guardians as they spent their day in the city.

Learning about these cats will help you fall in love with them. Soon you’ll be trying to learn how to treat them as well as the citizens do.

If you have extra food, share it with the cats to show your appreciation for their hard work around the city. Give to charities that help distribute food to the cats in poorer areas. 

If you fall in love with one of Istanbul’s street cats, [some charities will help you adopt it](https://yabangee.com/guide-adopting-street-animals-turkey/) and take it home with you. You can have a piece of Istanbul with you even after you’ve left the city, although it might still demand a kebab. 

Closing Thoughts
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Istanbul is the best city for cat lovers. You’ll find cats around every corner, happily snacking on offerings from the residents.

Although the cats are essentially tame, they’re still living in the streets. They belong to no one and everyone. They’re as much a part of Istanbul as [Turkish tea](/posts/best-drinks-turkey) and bazaars.

Before you visit Istanbul, it’s helpful to learn why there are so many cats in Istanbul to understand how to treat them. Once you know their incredible history, you’ll be offering them spare pieces of chicken, too.

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Explore the historical and cultural reasons why there are so many cats in Istanbul. Learn about their significance in Muslim culture and how the city cares for them.

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Explore Turkey with Wandering in Turkey, your essential guide for travelers and nomads. Get tips, guides, and insights for an unforgettable adventure.