Best Time To Visit Turkey

See Also

• Locations to Lodge in Istanbul
• Where to Stay along the Aegean Coast
• Where to Lodge on Mediterranean Coast

When is the best time to go to Turkey?

Because Turkey experiences hot summers and cold winters, the spring and fall seasons (April, May, and mid-September through mid-November) are the best time to visit. During these months, skies are likely to be sunny and temperatures pleasant, crowds will be present but not overwhelming, and visitors will have a better chance at discounted airfare and accommodation.

• Prime Moment for Sightseeing: The most fitting time for observing attractions in Turkey is when temperatures are warm but not too blistering, external to the crest tourist season when queues are often long, and crowds tend to hinder. Spring may be the really best, particularly April ahead of the mercury climbs too elevated and the flowers have burst into bloom. No subject what the season, with the exception of winter, plan to visit sights beforehand in the morning, precisely at opening, or late in the day, for the finest experience.
• Best Timeframe for a Bosphorus Cruise: Undertaking a Bosphorus Cruise is one of the notable experiences available for visitors to Turkey. The month of May presents a good option with warm temperatures expected out on the water and opportunities to view dolphins within the river. Early to mid-September additionally demonstrates a suitable time, with crowds starting to dwindle and harsh winter gusts still several weeks away. In the winter months, travelers should prepare for possible cancellations and plan to embark early in the day for the best chance of acceptable weather conditions.

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• Best Time for Beaches: The optimum time to visit Turkey for beach weather is summer, especially in July, August and September when conditions are usually hot and dry (temperatures typically reach the mid-30s along the south coast), while sea temperatures are warm but suitable for cooling off. September is also a great time for couples on honeymoon.
• Best Timeframe for Snow: While Turkey doesn`t always experience much snow in winter, in more northern spots like Kartalkaya in the Koroglu Mountains, skiing usually possible between December and March when snow depth can reach nearly 10 feet.

Turkey Travel Seasons

• High Season (May through September): The warm and dry months constitute high season, falling generally in summer, though part of late spring as well. July and August are the peak of the hot season. This is when the weather temperatures are often in the 30s°C and can even attain 40°C or higher. While it’s a wonderful time for savoring alfresco meals and making the most of the beaches, the crowds will be dense and lines the longest of the year. Accommodation rates and airfare are at their highest too. Within high season, September is my favorite time to visit.
• Transition times (April, October through mid-November): Turkey`s shoulder season offers a great opportunity to visit with lighter crowds and agreeable conditions expected, especially in April when tulips are in bloom. While travelers come year-round, numbers won`t be excessive and temperatures, particularly in April and the first half of October, should remain comfortable. This period may also present airfare discounts.
• Low Season (Mid-November through March): This period of the year in Turkey is generally considered to be the time when tourist arrivals decrease significantly. The weather at this time brings colder temperatures and increased likelihood of precipitation in the form of rain or snow. It offers the opportunity to avoid large crowds and lengthy wait times while still enjoying an affordable visit with discounted airfares and accommodation rates. However, appropriate clothing for cooler and wet conditions should be packed, including a warm and waterproof coat, boots, hat, etc.

Turkey Weather by Month

• Weather Conditions in Turkey During January: January in Turkey commonly experiences cold and darker conditions, although temperatures won`t plummet as severely as in other locations during the winter season`s depths. Thermometer readings vary depending on destination, with average afternoon highs of 8°C and nighttime lows dipping to 4°C or below. Snowfall isn`t uncommon, but rainfall occurs more often. Typically about 100mm of precipitation falls over 14 days, meaning visitors should plan for chilly, damp conditions by packing winter gear like a thick coat, sweaters, gloves, a hat and preferably, water-resistant boots. It`s a good time to explore indoor sights, when significantly fewer travelers visit urban areas. (Average Maximum Temperature: 8°C. Average Precipitation: 100mm.)
• Turkey Weather in February: February is comparable to January, but the low temperature decreases one degree to 3°C, and in many regions of Turkey snow is more common at this time, especially in the inner areas like Cappadocia, even though precipitation is reduced on average to 70mm on 12 days this month. Lake-effect snow from the Black Sea may occur in Istanbul and coastal areas, and it can be rather heavy. You’ll want to come ready for winter by packing attire suitable for cold weather and concentrating your visitors on more of the indoor sights. (Average Max Temperature: 8°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Turkey Weather in March: While the beginning weeks of March can bring variable and often wet weather early in the time period, a perceptible shift commonly arises as time passes with ambient temperatures increasing, including average highs of around 11°C during afternoon hours. Wet conditions tend to reduce also, with typical precipitation now 50mm spanning 13 days in March. This juncture presents a suitable moment to bring an accommodating yet watertight outer garment though you likely won`t need to bundle up extensively with scarves, wool socks and similar accessories. Not only are the days lengthening at a discernible rate, sunshine is frequently rather plenteous too, making the atmosphere feel warmer than the numeric temperature suggests. (Average Max Temperature: 11°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Turkey During April: As spring has begun, temperatures have become more pleasant, with highs typically reaching the mid or even upper teens in the afternoons. Light rain may occur on around 11 days each month, with precipitation averaging approximately 60 millimeters. However, any rainfall is generally light showers. Numerous beautiful sunny days can also be expected at this time of year, coinciding with blooming flowers. When packing for travel during April, include a variety of clothing suited for both warmer and cooler conditions, as well as a lightweight rain jacket. (Average Maximum Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Turkey Weather in May: When the month of May arrives, it`s expected to feel like summertime, or at least the pleasant portion with afternoon high temperatures around 20°C. The chance of precipitation decreases significantly too with only 40mm over 9 days in May, making this one of the best seasons to visit Turkey, with peak tourist crowds not arriving for another month or so. During this period you`ll need to pack primarily clothing suited for warm summer weather, like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, but you may desire to bring a mix of items as temperatures can be cool one day and hot the next. (Average High Temperature: 20°C. Average Rainfall: 40mm.)
• Turkey Weather in June: The month of June ushers in both crowds of travelers as well as significant rising heat, with days spanning many hours and commonly warm or hot and arid. While afternoon highs generally reach 26°C, temperatures have a tendency to climb to 30°C or higher on occasion. Visiting Turkey now implies packing lightweight summer apparel, like wide-brimmed hats, tops with short sleeves, skirts, dresses, shorts and such. If planning to be out late at night, a sweater could prove useful given the average low of around 17°C. Chances of rainfall drop notably with an average of 30mm of expected precipitation. The Mediterranean coast is apt to be damper than inland regions, but a rain jacket isn`t truly necessary now. (Average Max Temperature: 26°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)
• Turkey Weather in July: The skies are almost always clear blue, the weather is hot, and the sea has warmed enough for swimming at this point to 21°C. In the afternoon hours, the mercury rises to 28°C and temperatures of up to 40°C are not uncommon. If spending time in the water during the day, enjoying alfresco dinners and warm summer nights at the beach is what you seek, this is an excellent time to be in Turkey. Inland regions may get somewhat cool in the evenings, necessitating a sweater or sweatshirt; generally though, visiting during this peak summer month means having attire suited for warm conditions, including several swimsuits and plenty of sun protection. Do keep in mind that unless you’re at the beach or pool, more modest clothing is advised. Think loose, light and comfortable rather than revealing. (Average Maximum Temperature: 28°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)
• Conditions in Turkey during August: Comparable to July, August brings extensive sunshine and hot, dry weather with typical highs remaining at 28°C, although temperatures will likely surpass 30°C on numerous days. Prospects for rainfall have decreased further to just 20mm spread over four days, so don`t expect much relief from the heat. Making the most of beach time is key now that the sea temperature has reached 22°C, along with retreating indoors during the most intense heat of afternoon. Pack as you would for July with your summer apparel, focusing on light, loose clothing designed for comfort, and don`t forget a wide-brimmed hat. (Average High: 28°C. Average Precipitation: 20mm.)
• Turkey Weather in September: Although September ushers in the conclusion of summer, temperatures usually stay quite balmy and dry during the first half of the month, but cooling somewhat as it progresses with the average high decreasing to 27°C. Expect pleasantly warm conditions should you visit in the latter portion of September, and a slightly elevated chance of some precipitation now with rainfall averaging 50mm over 8 days, typically insufficient to interfere with outdoor sightseeing. With nightly lows averaging 16°C it may be prudent to carry a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. (Average Max Temperature: 27°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Turkey Weather in October: Autumn has taken hold and it is starting to visibly cool across Turkey noticeably. Precipitation increases quite a bit, especially in areas along the Black Sea, with 60mm on average falling over 10 days – the odds of rain are higher as the month progresses. The average high temperature is just 19°C now so you can expect brisk, cool days along with warmer, sunnier ones. Bringing a mix of clothing, such as both short- and long-sleeved shirts, as well as some sweaters and perhaps a rain jacket would be advisable. (Maximum Typical Temperature: 19°C. Median Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Turkey Climate in November: With winter drawing near the conditions undergo a more dramatic shift at this time, with the average maximum temperature resting at just 14°C. If experiencing warmer, sunnier days is desired, coming earlier in the month is wisest. As it moves ahead, it`s probable to feel more wintry: wet and chilly. The typical amount of precipitation increases to 100mm throughout thirteen days now. Bring a warm, waterproof outer layer, boots, and attire that can be stripped away with ease should the sun emerge, or for heated indoor spaces. (Average High Temperature: 14°C. Typical Precipitation: 100mm.)
• Turkey`s Weather in December: One of the coldest months of the year in Turkey, blustery, icy winds are prevalent now. From Anatolia to eastern Turkey, landscapes are commonly blanketed in a layer of white. While snowfall is less likely in Istanbul, it will feel rather chilly with average highs around 10°C. There`s typically 100mm of precipitation spread over 17 days now, so appropriate clothing helping ward off dampness and cold, like a warm waterproof coat, waterproof boots, a hat, scarves and gloves, is advised. (Average Max Temperature: 10°C. Average Precipitation: 100mm.)

Turkey Events and Festivals

Turkey in January

• New Year’s Day – January 1st, New Year’s Day, is a public holiday in Turkey with most businesses, banks, schools and post offices closed and public transport running on truncated schedules. Most people use the day to relax and unwind from the prior night’s celebrations.
• Orthodox Christmas – Most Orthodox churches in Turkey use the Julian calendar, marking Christmas Eve on January 6th and the following day for Christmas. Parishioners head to church while Armenian and Greek Orthodox Patriarchs bless their followers making rounds.
• Camel Wrestling Festival – This three-month event in Selcuk that usually begins in early January and continues until the end of March witnesses one camel being named the winner, a great achievement for its owner who spends a whole year making sure his camel will be fit for wrestling. Since the animals are more aggressive during winter when temperatures are cold, it gives them an opportunity to release some pressure too.

Turkey in February

Embarking on a boat tour of the Santorini volcano allows visitors to leap from the vessel into the cool waters of the caldera before swimming towards the pleasantly warm springs emanating from the volcanic vents below. While the hot springs never become truly scorching, their heat provides sufficient relief that bathers feel no urgency to exit the therapeutic pools. Accessible only via a Santorini boat adventure)
• Valentine`s Day – Valentine`s Day is not a Turkish tradition, actually it`s referred to as Sevgililer Günü which translates to Lover`s Day here, popularized just a few decades ago by a men`s magazine. It will be visible in restaurants, malls, and shop windows where gifts and special dinners are offered. Street vendors will be selling flowers, balloons and various heart-shaped items.
• !f Istanbul Independent Film Festival – This annual event that occurs for 10 consecutive days during the latter half of February was founded in 2002. It brings acclaimed filmmakers and approximately 80,000 cinema enthusiasts from all over the globe to enjoy the finest in recent film curated and based on thematic selections.

Turkey in March

• Commemorating the heroes of Canakkale who fought against numerous challenges to protect their country. Memorials in the southern peninsula of Gallipoli can be filled with visitors.
• Nevruz Spring Festival – This event generally celebrated on the initial day of spring to welcome in the season, is associated with various local traditions, notably singing, folk dancing, and bonfires. Children decorate hard-boiled eggs and there are often family and/or public feasts.
• Mesir Macunu Festival – This monumental happening has a rich conventional history, tracing back to the Ottoman age. It occurs in the Aegean Manisa province, distinguished for its mesir macunu paste, a conventional confection comprising numerous herbs. The paste was formerly put to use for treating the unwell, and because of enhanced communal demand, the sultan directed for it to be shared with the populace by scattering them from the minarets and domes of the Sultan Mosque. Ordinarily held during the week of March 21st, tens of countless individuals converge preceding the mosque to rejoice the season of spring and the initiation of the duration of abundance with diversified sports activities and cultural gatherings which include the mesir paste dissemination ceremony.

Turkey in April

• Annual spring blossom showcase in Istanbul – One of the largest tulip gatherings worldwide occurs in Istanbul, taking place for the bulk of April and into early May for around three weeks with the precise dates contingent on the flowers` blooming. Many are unaware that tulips originally grew untamed on the Asian steppes and were later bred by the Ottoman Empire. These days, millions of tulips are planted across the city, and during the festival, they`re all bursting with color. The Emirgan Park organizers put on performances, displays, and concerts for you to enjoy as you wander the gardens in full bloom.
• International Film Festival – The prominent global film event held in Turkey happens in Istanbul during the first half of April. Visitors and citizens alike can enjoy the top new independent films in the capital city with a booming film industry. Screenings primarily occur in and around the entertainment area of Beyoğlu. The occasion brings screen performers and filmmakers from all over the world.
• Alacati Herb Festival – The Cesme Municipality hosts its most popular annual event over 4 days in early April. It draws thousands to enjoy this horticultural tradition including competitions in herb collection and propagation. Visitors can gather herbs, learn about local flavors, join workshops, savor foods made with the herbs, and more.
• TEB BNP Paribas Istanbul Open – The biggest international tennis tournament in Turkey takes place over a week in April.
• National Independence and Youth Day – April 23 is a public holiday in Turkey, bringing facility closures along with parades. Many people lay wreaths on the memorials of Turkish Republic establisher, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. The largest ceremony is held in Ankara at the Ataturk Memorial. As Ataturk dedicated the Turkish Republic to youth, schoolchildren sit in Parliament for the day, symbolically ruling over the country. Children’s festivals are held throughout Turkey. In Istanbul, there will also be short performances by groups in traditional attire accompanied by traditional music, culminating with a more elaborate performance at the national soccer stadium.

Turkey in May

• Labor Day – May 1 is recognized as Labor Day in many locations, including Istanbul. Taksim Square has long been the site of major demonstrations. It also holds important symbolic meetings as on May 1, 1977, thirty-seven individuals were killed following unidentified fire on protestors. While gatherings and protests in this area have been banned since, thousands still attempt to take it over yearly resulting in clashes with police, which is why visitors are advised to avoid the region throughout the day.

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• Hidrellez Festival – This commemoration celebrates the principal day of the “early summer,” with May regularly ushering in warm, dry climate. In Istanbul, there will be road gatherings all through the night of May 5th and into the morning of the 6th, including gypsy music bands. Wishes are accepted to be conceded this day and locals may hop over a flame while making a wish or they may compose or draw the wish, tying it to a tree branch or concealing it underneath a plant. The most acclaimed festivity is in Sarayici which finishes with the custom of going by the neighboring Tunca River for ceremonies like washing one`s face in the water and sending handwritten notices of wants out on the water trusting they will be conceded.

Turkey in June

• Istanbul Music Festival – This yearly event happens across Istanbul with performances at cultural sites, historic places, concert halls, parks and gardens throughout much of June. There are over 600 local and international artists, counting well-known names in classical music, opera, and ballet participating.
• Cappadox Festival – Thousands flock to the incredible landscapes of Cappadocia for this can`t-miss event focusing on culture, music, and food, hosting over 140 activities occurring over about a week in mid-June.

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• Istanbul Jazz Festival – Operating from late June through mid-July, this festival brings jazz and significantly more, such as rock, pop, new age, and Reggae to Istanbul.

Turkey in July

• Turkish Maritime and Cabotage Day – Cabotage Day is an annual maritime festival held on July 1 to celebrate the establishment of Turkey’s sea borders. The day begins with an official ceremony at Ataturk’s statue followed by events and competitions at marinas with major ports.
• Democracy and National Unity Day – July 15 is a relatively new public holiday that commemorates the murderous coup attempt on July 15, 2016, bringing closures as well as a series of events throughout the country.
• Relaxation Festival – The Relaxation Festival is held each summer at locations in Istanbul, Bodrum, and Cesme, showcasing house, lounge, and minimal music genres. A variety of food, beverages, workshops, and other activities are offered as you immerse in the melodies.
• Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim – Late July hosts the novel thrill of watching more than two thousand athletes globally tackle the open waters along this cross-continental swim of the Bosphorus Strait (closed off to marine traffic for the occasion). Past entrants include nine-time Olympic gold medalist Mark Spitz and champion Ian Thorpe. A grand festival with cuisine, music, and activities wraps up the affair in Kurucesme.

Turkey in August

• International Troy Folk Dance Festival – Towards the end of August, Canakkale hosts an annual International Troy Folk Dance Festival. Folk dancers from all corners of the globe are welcomed to participate. While traditional folk dances are highlighted, the program also includes theatrical performances, musical shows, cultural exhibits, panels, and more.
• International Ballet Festival – Occurring in the historic setting of Bodrum Castle over the latter half of August, this event features top ballet companies and stars from worldwide.
• Victory Day (Zafer Bayrami) – August 30th is a public holiday commemorating the 1922 triumph over invading Greek armies during the War of Independence. There will be military parades in major cities across the nation along with business closures although most supermarkets and major shops will remain open. Some enterprises may close on this day, though tourist attractions and most significant retailers are accessible.

Turkey in September

• Bozcaada Vintage Festival – This traditional grape harvest celebration on the island of Bozcaada occurs in early September, commemorating the picking of four varietals. Grapes are collected from the vineyards covering one-third of the island and brought into town, welcomed with percussion and brass initiating the festivities. Wines produced from these varietals and others are sold at the event.
• Art and Cultural Festival in Phaselis – This week-long event showcases famous international and Turkish artists in the 2,400-year-old trading center of Phaselis in early September. Concerts featuring Turkish jazz, folk, and other genres can be heard at the ancient theater.
• International Istanbul Biennial – Hosted every second year starting in mid-September. This contemporary art exhibition is viewed as one of the most prestigious biennials alongside Sydney, Sao Paolo, and Venice. It centers around a current philosophical or political theme from which artists are chosen from around the world to develop exhibitions which are displayed throughout Istanbul.
• Goreme Local Food Contest – Goreme hosts this yearly festival during the latter portion of September. The event aims to educate younger generations concerning the traditional tastes of Cappadocian cooking and organic cultivation. Attending provides valuable insight into the local culture.
• Contemporary Istanbul – Turkey’s largest international art fair takes place for four days each September. There will be over 100 international exhibitors at the Istanbul Congress Center and Convention and Exhibition Centre in Istanbul.

Turkey in October

• Akbank International Jazz Festival – This two-week long event brings blues and jazz to Ankara, Izmir, and Istanbul, featuring globally renowned performers taking the stage in some of the most atmospheric venues.
• International Regatta of Bodrum – Held over the period of a week in late October, this event aims to educate lovers of the sea in sailing techniques as well as showcase locally built yachts. This unique competition allows spectators onboard vessels during races. Complementing activities incorporate performances as well as culinary and photographic competitions.
• Republic Day – October 29 celebrates the 1923 declaration of the Turkish Republic with public speeches, parades, fireworks, and additional festivities. Schools and most companies close.
• Antalya Golden Orange International Film Festival – This prestigious week-long event, held in autumn months (October-November), is focused on documentaries and narrative fiction of both short and feature-length and is one of the longest-running film festivals in Turkey.

Turkey in November

• Istanbul Intercontinental Marathon – This event involves running from the Asian to European side of Istanbul across the Bosphorus waterway on November 3rd. It originated when German tourists wanted to run marathons where they visited, yet Istanbul lacked one. Therefore, a unique way to link two continents via a marathon transpired.
• Ataturk Remembrance Day – November 10 is not a public holiday but is set aside to remember the death of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of the Republic. There is a moment of silence to honor his memory and precisely at 9:05 a.m. sirens, vehicle horns, and foghorns are rung. In Istanbul and cities across the country there are usually various activities such as concerts, speeches, and exhibitions.

Turkey in December

• Rumi Celebration – In Konya, the Rumi Festival allows observation of the dance of whirling dervishes, an active type of meditation commonly practiced in numerous regions, especially Turkey, with origins in the Mevlevi order. It is believed the whirling symbolizes the cosmos, with the right hand directing upwards toward heaven to take in goodness and the left hand guiding down toward earth to distribute it. There will be sporadic performances throughout the streets of Istanbul, with the most elaborate held inside the mosques.
• Istanbul International Short Film Festival – This festival in Istanbul takes place over a week in mid-December, December 13 to 20. The oldest international short film festival in the country, some 200 are presented from Turkey and around the world. Screenings are presented with Turkish subtitles often followed by a Q&A with the director.
• Christmas Markets – While Christmas isn’t celebrated nationally in Turkey due to its Muslim majority, Christmas Markets hosting traditional winter items are organized in various locations to entertain international visitors.
• New Year’s Eve – December 31st is when many parties happen across the country to welcome the new year. Restaurants and major hotels provide special menus and events for this occasion. Cities around Turkey hold firework shows that evening. Celebrating on a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait is a popular way to view the fireworks display.

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