The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office raised its travel advisory for Turkey’s Black Sea provinces on 22 May 2026. The warning covers Trabzon, Rize and Artvin provinces due to heightened security risks. All but essential travel is now advised against in these areas.
Incidents reported in late April prompted the reassessment after months of relative calm. British nationals already in the region are advised to remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings. The FCDO maintains its standard advice for the rest of Turkey.
Travel insurance policies may be affected for trips to the affected provinces. Holidaymakers with bookings should contact their providers immediately. The Turkish tourism ministry stated that popular resorts along the Aegean and Mediterranean remain unaffected.
Flights to Trabzon Airport continue to operate normally but passengers are recommended to allow extra time for security checks. British tour operators have suspended new bookings to the three provinces until further notice. The FCDO will review the advisory again on 15 June.
Embassy staff in Ankara are monitoring the situation and maintain contact with local authorities. Travellers are encouraged to register with the British Embassy’s LOCATE service. Road travel between Istanbul and the Black Sea coast is also discouraged.
The updated guidance appears on the official gov.uk travel advice page. Similar warnings have been issued by several European governments. The situation remains fluid and further changes cannot be ruled out.