What Is the Best VPN Service Provider for Istanbul in 2025?

At a Glance

Online users who reside in or are visiting Istanbul, Turkey, should be advised of the country’s Freedom House Freedom on the Net 2023 rating of “Less Than Free” (30/100) (0 = least free, 100 = most free), a two point drop from the previous year.

The Turkish government continues to lock down internet freedoms, and it temporarily blocked social media platforms during 2022 and 2023.

Access to social media and communications platforms was blocked following a November 2022 bombing in Istanbul and was blocked again following two major earthquakes in the south in February 2023. Websites that are deemed to be defamatory of Islam are blocked by default. Access to Wikipedia is completely blocked.

Can a VPN Protect Me Online in Istanbul?

This is arguably the most important reason for using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) while in Istanbul. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, keeping your online activities from being monitored by the government, your Internet Service Provider (ISP), or hackers.

While we’re discussing the benefits of a VPN, I’ll mention that a VPN can make it appear to the rest of the online world that you’re located in another country. This comes in handy for accessing geo-blocked content from around the world.

While Netflix is available in Istanbul and the rest of Turkey, it is censored, and the available content is limited to that which is licensed for viewing in Turkey. You’ll find that the available Turkish content is different from that of other countries.

As for other streaming services, Amazon Prime Video’s content varies from country to country, Hulu is restricted to the United States, and BBC iPlayer is restricted to United Kingdom viewers. Other streaming services generally have the same restrictions.

In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the top six VPN providers that still work in Istanbul and the rest of Turkey, providing the best online protection for your online activities.

WANT TO TRY A TOP VPN FOR ISTANBUL RISK-FREE?: Every top VPN provider on this list offers a 30- to 45-day money-back guarantee. If you subscribe to any of the providers in this article and find that the VPN isn’t right for your needs, you can request a full refund before the money-back guarantee period has elapsed.

Best VPN Service Providers for Istanbul

Please note: While VPN use is not illegal in Turkey, the government does block some VPN providers. I double-checked with the six VPN providers below to confirm that they still worked from inside Turkey at the time of this article.

All six have servers located in Turkey. However, things can change at any time. So, be sure to check with any VPN provider that you are considering to confirm that their service still works in the country.

The following VPN service providers offer the best protection and enhancement for your online activities while residing in or visiting Istanbul.

The best VPNs for Istanbul:

1. NordVPN: Top VPN choice for Istanbul. Istanbul online users would do well to check out NordVPN thanks to its top-notch VPN services at a reasonable price. The provider’s impressive global server network delivers fast and well-protected access to content around the globe. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best budget-priced VPN for Istanbul. This provider’s large global server network delivers speedy, well-protected connections that offer incognito access to content around the world. It does all of this at a bargain price.
3. ExpressVPN: Premium Istanbul VPN. This well-established VPN provider offers premium services for an admittedly premium price tag. The provider has a larger global server network and does a top-notch job of keeping your online travels undercover.
4. CyberGhost: Option for rookie VPN users. First time VPN users, as well as users in search of easy-to-use VPN protection, will appreciate CyberGhost. The provider’s easy-to-use apps provide top-notch protected access to a huge global server network.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN protection for Istanbul. PIA provides top-notch online security and privacy for all of your online activities. PIA’s global server network provides reliable, well-protected access to controlled content in numerous areas around the globe.
6. PrivateVPN: Small but powerful VPN option. While this provider’s global server network is noticeably smaller than those of the other VPNs on this list, it offers reliable access with its owned-and-operated servers. The provider offers well-protected access to content located both inside and outside of Turkey.

When ranking the top six VPN service providers for Istanbul, I considered the following factors:

• Provider works in Turkey
• Global server locations, with a bonus for servers in Turkey
• Security and user privacy protections
• Connection speeds
• Native app support
• Customer support features

Here is my list of the six best VPN service providers for Istanbul residents and visitors.

1. NordVPN

Apr 2025

NordVPN provides budget-friendly, yet top-notch VPN protection and enhancement.

This top-ranked VPN has nearly 6,000 servers distributed among 60+ countries, including Turkey. While that is certainly not the largest global server network on this list, it provides reliable access to most areas of the globe.

The provider’s servers offer two privacy features that many providers do not yet offer. Its owned-and-operated servers keep third-party contractors away from your personal info. Plus, all NordVPN servers are run directly from RAM, never writing any data to a physical hard drive or SSD. This means that all data is wiped when the servers are rebooted or powered down.

Privacy protection at NordVPN is also provided at a high level thanks to its audited no-server-logs policy and a cryptocurrency subscription payment option.

The provider offers a high level of online security via its use of military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, as well as an automatic kill switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection. Malware protection and ad blocking are also available.

NordVPN’s connection speeds, while not the fastest on this list, are easily up to handling HD video streaming, online gaming, file sharing, and other online activities (your performance will vary according to your usual connection speeds). Plus, there are no data caps or bandwidth limitations of any kind.

The provider has apps available for Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows device platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available, as is compatibility with various routers.

Users can simultaneously connect up to six devices to NordVPN’s servers.

Customer support options include 24/7 live chat, email support, and a support library.

BEST VPN FOR ISTANBUL:NordVPN’s reasonably-priced but comprehensive VPN services put this VPN at the top of the list. The provider delivers fast connections with comprehensive content-unblocking power via a large selection of apps for popular devices. Its digital security and privacy protections are optimal. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark provides better services than you might expect given its low, low price.

This budget-priced provider offers an impressive global server network, boasting 3,200+ servers located in 100+ countries, including Turkey. The provider’s global server network is 100% run from RAM, meaning no data is written to a physical drive. This ensures that all data is erased when a server is rebooted.

Surfshark keeps its users’ online activities undercover by using banking-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Ad and cookie blocking are also available. Plus, a “MultiHop” server option allows you to route your internet connection through two VPN servers to double up on encryption and anonymity.

In addition to “run from RAM” servers, the provider’s privacy protections include a cryptocurrency subscription payment option and a strict no-server-logs policy.

Surfshark provides blazing download speeds, the fastest in the VPN industry in recent testing, which is more than enough bandwidth for streaming, gaming, and sharing large files. No data caps or bandwidth limitations are to be found here.

App offerings are available for Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, and Amazon Fire device platforms (Surfshark offers native support for Apple’s latest Apple Silicon-powered Macs).

Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available, as is extensive router compatibility. An unlimited simultaneous connections allowance provides unlimited device protection, making it an excellent option for small businesses or large families.

Around-the-clock support includes 24/7 live agent chat, a contact form, and a searchable knowledge base.

BUDGET-PRICED VPN CONNECTIONS:Surfshark provides unlimited, fast connections for a budget-friendly price, making it an attractive VPN option for business users or those with numerous devices or users. Security-minded users will appreciate the provider’s top-notch protections for your online antics. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN offers an extremely high level of VPN services at an admittedly high price. However, users who are willing to pay a bit more for top-notch VPN service will appreciate this provider.

The provider has the globe covered with more than 3,000 servers, well-distributed among Turkey and 100+ other countries. Those servers offer reliable access to geo-blocked content in most of the world.

All of your online activities are kept well undercover thanks to ExpressVPN’s use of military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. The provider’s Lightway protocol is designed for improved security and performance.

A strict no-server-logs policy and a Bitcoin subscription payment option has things covered on the privacy end of things. In addition, the provider’s “TrustedServer” technology runs all operations directly from the server’s RAM, never writing data of any kind to the hard drive. This means that all data on the server is totally wiped whenever the server is rebooted.

The provider’s download speeds are some of the fastest in the VPN industry, providing more than enough speed for HD streaming, online gaming, and file sharing. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to ruin the fun here.

Just about any connected device is compatible with ExpressVPN thanks to the provider’s native app support for the Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows device platforms. The provider recently added native app support for Apple TVs running tvOS 17 or higher.

Your browser sessions are kept private thanks to the provider’s Brave, Chrome, Edge, and Firefox extensions. In addition, comprehensive router compatibility keeps all of your other connected devices protected. ExpressVPN offers custom firmware for several routers.

Up to eight devices can connect at the same time on a single set of login credentials.

24/7 customer support options include live chat, a trouble ticket system, email support, and a searchable knowledge base.

RELIABLE VPN FOR ISTANBUL:Istanbul residents and visitors willing to pay a bit more for top-notch online protection will appreciate ExpressVPN. The provider’s large global server network provides reliable access to geo-blocked content around the globe while protecting your online travels. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is great if you’re new to the VPN scene or are simply looking for an easy way to protect your online activities.

CyberGhost’s global server network includes 10,200+ servers in 99+ countries (including Turkey). The provider offers servers optimized for streaming, gaming, and downloading.

The provider protects its customers’ internet connections by using banking-level encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IPv6 leak prevention. The provider also offers blocking of ads and trackers, and it can also force web servers to serve up secure versions of their pages, if present on the server.

CyberGhost also offers a password manager, Intego antivirus protection, and a utility that scans your device for outdated and vulnerable apps. The provider’s ID Guard feature alerts you if your email address was uncovered in a data breach.

On the privacy end of things, a strict no-logs policy and an acceptance of Bitcoin as a subscription payment have things covered. CyberGhost has joined the ever-growing ranks of VPNs that run their servers solely from RAM.

CyberGhost provided the fifth fastest connection speeds in my most recent testing, meaning the provider’s connections can easily handle gaming, streaming video, and any other online activities you enjoy. No bandwidth throttling or data caps to put up with here.

The provider offers easy-to-use apps for Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows devices. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available. The service works well with several router makes and models.

Up to seven devices can be simultaneously connected on the same set of login credentials.

24/7 customer support includes live agent chat, email, a trouble ticket system, and a searchable knowledge base.

EXCELLENT VPN OPTION FOR ROOKIES:First-time VPN users will appreciate CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps and services. Streamers, gamers, and file sharers will appreciate the provider’s optimized servers, located in several countries in its massive global server network. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts a large global server network, with 3,300+ servers stationed in 90+ countries, including servers in Turkey.

All PIA-provided connections are protected with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. The VPN also protects you against pesky ads, trackers, malware, and perilous websites.

PIA’s servers are run totally free of user logs, meaning there is no evidence of your online activities to be had. The provider accepts Bitcoin in return for its comprehensive services, adding a layer of privacy protection for your payment information.

All PIA servers are run solely from volatile RAM, with no data ever being saved to an actual hard drive or SSD. This means that whenever a PIA server is powered down or rebooted, all data is automatically and completely erased, starting over with a fresh VPN server install.

PIA’s connection speeds are the second-slowest on this list of six providers. However, they are more than up to handling your favorite online activities. The provider never inflicts data caps or bandwidth throttling on its customers’ VPN usage.

The provider offers native app support for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux device platforms. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are present and accounted for. PIA is also compatible with select routers.

PIA’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy means there is no limit on how many devices users can simultaneously connect to its servers.

PIA’s support options include live agent chat, a trouble ticket tracking system, and a searchable support library.

RELIABLE VPN PROTECTION FOR ISTANBUL:PIA provides comprehensive online security and privacy protection. The provider’s large global server network offers reliable access to content in 90+ countries (including Turkey) for an unlimited number of popular devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN’s services match up well with the other VPNs on this list, with the exception of its rather small global server network.

With 200+ servers spread thinly among 60+ countries, including Turkey, PrivateVPN definitely has the smallest network among any provider on this list.

That said, those servers provide maximum online protection, thanks to PrivateVPN’s use of government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. The provider’s proprietary “Stealth VPN” option keeps your VPN activity disguised, hiding it from restrictive countries like Turkey.

Privacy is also well-covered due to the provider’s no-server-logs policy and Bitcoin subscription payment option.

PrivateVPN’s servers deliver the slowest download speed on this list. That said, the connections can handle HD streaming, online gaming, and file sharing. Unlimited bandwidth and no data caps to worry about here.

App support is limited to apps for the “big five” operating system platforms, with offerings available for Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows platforms. Manual setup instructions can walk you through installing and using the service on devices. Browser extensions are not available, but router features to protect all of your connected devices are.

Up to 10 devices can be connected at once on the same set of login credentials.

While the provider lacks live support chat, it does provide a way to send a message to support, which in my experience responds quite quickly. Email support and an FAQ help section are also available.

“STEALTHY” VPN PROVIDER:PrivateVPN’s Stealth VPN feature and fast connections offer reliable protection for all of your online activities. The provider’s global server network is spread a bit thin, but it does what it needs to do. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Istanbul

Istanbul residents and visitors who are looking for optimal protection for their internet activities should always carefully consider a VPN service provider’s offerings before choosing it. You will want to be sure that your VPN will do what you need it to do.

These are the factors you should consider when choosing a VPN for Istanbul:

• Speed: A provider’s connection speed is an important factor to consider. You’ll want a fast connection no matter what online activity you enjoy while using a VPN. Each VPN on my list offers fast connections, which I verify through rounds of speed tests.
• Server network: Turkey-based servers are needed if you plan to access Turkish content, and you’ll want plenty of servers around the world if you want to access geo-blocked content. Also, look for a large number of servers in each location, as it will mean better performance, as no individual server will be hit with an overload of users all trying to connect at once.
• Value: Each VPN on my list offers a price that is in line with the services it offers. Never invest a large sum of money in a VPN that doesn’t offer the features and functionality you require.
• Ease of use: A VPN’s apps should be easy to use, so you don’t have to waste time fiddling with settings. They should also be available for the majority of popular platforms. All of the VPNs on my list offer easy-to-use apps.
• Security and privacy: No matter where you’re located, you’re always subject to online perils. A VPN should offer, at the very least, banking-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. A no-server-logs-ever policy is also a must, as it will ensure that there will be no evidence of your online antics.
• Streaming: Video streaming is one of the most popular online activities among VPN users. So, I also check that each VPN I recommend provides access to geo-blocked streaming services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and other popular streaming services (they do).

The list above includes just some of the features I researched as a part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. This data-driven approach provides an in-depth understanding of each provider, allowing me to recommend only VPNs that fit my readers’ needs.

How to Use a VPN in Istanbul

It’s easy to use a VPN in Istanbul by following these steps:

1. Subscribe to a VPN provider (NordVPN is my top recommendation).
2. Install the provider’s app(s) on your device(s). Turkey blocks access to some VPN websites, so it’s a good idea to install and test your VPN’s app on your device before entering Turkish airspace.
3. Sign in to the VPN service.
4. Select a VPN server located inside of Turkey to protect your internet activities while inside the country or to access Turkish content from outside of the country. To access content located in another country, select a server in the country of your choice.
5. Enjoy your newfound internet freedom!

Why Not Use a Free VPN?

Using a free VPN is a bad idea, no matter where you live, but it’s an especially bad idea when you live in a restrictive country like Turkey, where the government frowns on VPN users and blocks numerous VPN providers.

Free VPNs simply do not offer true online security and privacy protection. You give up a lot of privacy when using a free Virtual Private Network.

You see, free VPNs pay their bills by monitoring their users’ online travels. Information about online activity is a valuable commodity, which free VPNs can sell to advertisers and other interested parties (possibly including the Turkish government, so there goes your privacy).

Some free VPNs have been found to be inserting tracking cookies and ads into their users’ browser sessions (and those browser cookies keep on tracking you, even after you’re disconnected from the VPN’s network).

Free VPNs are also less than convenient and definitely lack optimal performance.

Some free VPNs will force you to cool your virtual heels with other free users before being allowed to connect to a free server.

Once you’re given the green light to connect, you may then find that your selection of VPN servers is severely limited, or you’ll find that you’re automatically assigned to a server of your provider’s choice.

Once you’ve finally connected, you’ll likely find that your connection speeds have slowed greatly. That’s because free VPN service providers throttle their free users’ connections to preserve available bandwidth for paying users. They also place daily or monthly data caps on free use. Streamers and gamers should especially take note of this.

Personally, I’d rather spend a few bucks per month on a quality VPN and not worry about any of the issues listed above. NordVPN and Surfshark offer their services at an especially friendly price.

What Are the Advantages a VPN Provides?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the best way to protect your online security and privacy.

A VPN encases your internet connection in a tunnel of protective encryption, hiding your online activities from prying eyes. This can include hackers, your government, and your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Your ISP tracks your online travels for two main reasons. First, they track you so they can log your online travels, selling that valuable information to advertisers and anyone else willing to pay for it. Plus, ISPs will block or throttle your internet connection if they see you streaming from “unapproved” sources or see you sharing files (any files).

Thankfully, a VPN’s encrypted protection can prevent both of these things from happening.

That same encryption comes in handy when using an unprotected public WiFi hotspot, such as those found in hotels, airports, and other public locations. Most public hotspots don’t require a password. While this makes it easier for users to connect, the lack of encryption makes it easier for hackers to monitor you.

A VPN can also temporarily assign a new IP address to your connected device. If that IP address is designated for another country, it makes it appear as if you and your device are located in that country, enabling you to access geo-blocked content that is normally limited to that country. This greatly improves your entertainment options.

SEE ALSO: How to Watch Turkish TV Abroad, What Is the Best VPN Service Provider for Turkey? and How to Get a Turkish IP Address.

Conclusion

Residents of Istanbul, as well as visitors to the city (or to other locations in Turkey), will appreciate a Virtual Private Network’s ability to protect and enhance all of their online travels.

My #1 choice for optimal VPN protection is NordVPN, which provides excellent performance in every VPN service category.

The provider’s large global network of servers delivers fast, well-encrypted connections, providing reliable access to geo-blocked content around the globe. The provider supports all popular device platforms, and its 24/7 customer support is always there for you.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.

Istanbul VPN FAQs

Will I Get a Local IP Address From Istanbul With a VPN?

You can get a local IP address from Istanbul by subscribing to a VPN service that has not been blocked in Turkey and has servers located inside the city of Istanbul, like the VPNs listed in this article. Then you simply need to start up the VPN app and connect to a VPN server inside of Istanbul. This will open access to geo-blocked content only available from inside Turkey.

Is a VPN Easy to Set Up in Istanbul?

Yes. VPN service providers offer access to their app downloads. As long as your VPN offers native app support for your favorite device, you can quickly download and install the app on your device. You then run it, enter your username and password, select a server location, and you’re ready to go.

Can I Keep My VPN On All the Time When I Visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is located in Turkey, where the government continues to crack down on internet freedom. So, I strongly suggest leaving your VPN connected whenever possible. That way, you won’t forget to turn it on and risk having your online travels monitored, or revealing your true IP address.

All of the providers mentioned in this article offer the ability to automatically enable VPN protection when you turn on your computer or other device.