We will be in Istanbul for 2 weeks in Nov. I would like to visit and walk along part of the (Byzantine) land walls that are just west of old Istanbul. I grew up in New York City and have always retained my sense of "where one does not belong". However, some books I have looked at claim that this area is a bleak desolation of empty lots and is unsafe. With commonsense, during daylight hours, and with a definite route, is this area unsafe? Would probably be using taxi's to get to and from the city wall area, though may also look at public transit. Or is it just best to forget about it? <BR>I also have a similar question about wandering around the Fatih District. (Although I definitely want to visit the Fatih Camii , regardless.) It'll be the middle of Ramadan, so doubt there will be very many lokantas open during daylight hours in Fatih.<BR>

Hi ridem,<BR><BR>Are you going to walk alone?If not just walk during daylight.Beware of your handbag!!!In those areas you can meet some bad guys for tourists.Beware of small kids just walk through.I myself don't think the city unsafe but it is my duty to tell you what can happen?Taxis are fast and cheap in Istanbul.Public transits are a bit crowded.There will be some restaurants open in Ramadan in Fatih but I can't recommmend any and don't eat everywhere Ridem (hygen!)You can buy SIMIT on the street instead of lunch as a tourist you'll get no problem but any waiter in rest will be fasting in Ramadan and it is not so nice for myself when you eat as they don't.

I just returned from Istanbul. I was told by a guide, and have read in travel books, that the walls are riddled with nook and crannies that attract junkies and homeless people. Best to see these sites in groups.

ALL AREAS IN ISTANBUL ARE UNSAFE!!!!!!!