Travelers heading to Turkey are facing a growing list of concerns, from counterfeit alcohol poisoning to rising crime rates and skyrocketing alcohol prices. With over 100 deaths linked to fake alcohol, ongoing safety risks, and price hikes affecting local bars and restaurants, tourists are questioning whether the country remains a safe and affordable destination.
Deadly Counterfeit Alcohol Poses Risks for Tourists
A recent travel warning issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) urges visitors to exercise caution when consuming alcohol in Turkey. The alert follows reports of over 100 deaths in Istanbul and Ankara caused by bootleg liquor since January 2025.
Authorities warn travelers to avoid homemade alcohol and unlicensed vendors and to carefully inspect bottles for tampered seals or poor-quality labels. The risks are particularly high in nightclubs, beach bars, and local liquor shops that may sell counterfeit spirits disguised as well-known brands.
Crime Rates Drop, but Tourist Safety Remains a Concern
While crime in Istanbul has seen an overall decline in fraud, theft, and organized crime, authorities continue to crack down on illegal alcohol production and smuggling. In January 2025, Turkish security forces confiscated over 86,000 liters of counterfeit alcohol and arrested 190 suspects involved in illegal distribution.
Despite these efforts, visitors should remain cautious, particularly in crowded tourist areas, markets, and nightlife spots, where pickpocketing and scams remain a concern. Authorities also closed 204 unlicensed accommodation facilities, raising questions about the regulation of budget travel options.
Alcohol Prices Surge Amid Rising Taxes
Adding to the challenges for travelers, alcohol prices in Turkey have soared due to increased excise tax (ÖTV) and value-added tax (KDV). The latest price hikes, effective January 9, 2025, have pushed the cost of alcohol to record levels:
- The cheapest beer now costs 60 TL (approximately 1.61 EUR or 1.66 USD), while premium brands exceed 135 TL ( approx. 3.63 EUR or 3.74 USD) per bottle.
- The cheapest bottle of rakı (Turkey’s national drink) now costs 825 TL (approx. 22.22 EUR or 22.88 USD), with premium options reaching 1,600 TL (approx. 43.04 EUR or 44.32 USD).
- The price of a 75 cl bottle of the cheapest wine has risen to 429 TL (approx. €11.50 or $12.00). The most expensive wine now costs 9,450 TL (approx. €253.39 or $262.11).
These increases come just months after a previous round of tax hikes in early January, which saw some beer brands climb to 175 TL per bottle in retail stores. However, the impact is even greater in restaurants and bars, where alcohol prices are often double or more than market rates due to service charges, licensing fees, and additional taxes. A beer that costs 60 TL in a supermarket can easily exceed 120-150 TL in a bar, while a bottle of rakı priced at 825 TL in retail may cost upwards of 1,600-2,000 TL in a restaurant.
Should Travelers Still Visit Turkey?
Turkey (Turkiye) remains one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, offering rich cultural heritage, stunning coastlines, and world-class historical sites. However, visitors should stay informed about alcohol safety, crime risks, and rising costs to ensure a smooth trip.
With alcohol becoming increasingly expensive, tourists may find nightlife and dining experiences significantly less affordable than in previous years. Once-popular venues in Istanbul, Bodrum, and Antalya, known for their vibrant bar scenes, are seeing shifts in consumer habits, with many locals and visitors opting for pre-drinks at home or hotel before heading out to bars and clubs.
Some travelers may even reconsider Turkey as a budget-friendly destination for nightlife, especially when compared to neighboring countries such as Greece and Georgia where alcohol prices remain lower.
Experts recommend that travelers:
- Buy alcohol only from reputable bars, restaurants, and licensed stores.
- Be cautious of overly cheap liquor deals, as they may involve counterfeit products.
- Stay aware of local regulations and ongoing safety advisories.
While Turkey continues to attract millions of visitors, the recent combination of safety concerns, counterfeit alcohol risks, and rising prices means that travelers should plan carefully to avoid unexpected dangers and expenses.
