Before you decide to visit Turkey, you’ll want to know which is the best time of the year to come. The good news is that Turkey is worth the visit at all times of the year, even in Winter. But depending on what you would like to experience in this beautiful country and also where your travels will take you, you may want to be more selective on which season and month you visit Turkey.
In this post, I will give you an idea of the weather forecast in Turkey, all year round. My post includes the average temperatures, recommendations on what to wear, what holidays or celebrations are happening that month, and some suggestions about what places and activities might be a good idea to visit or do. Below, you’ll find general information about seasons and a link to each month. Click the image to learn more about that month.
These are all suggestions, and the weather can always change, but I hope it helps you plan your visit!
Visiting Turkey in Winter
Winter season in Turkey (December, January, February) is usually cold, rainy, and snowy, with occasional cold but sunny days. However, Turkey’s south-east cities can show higher temperatures compared to other regions of the country.
However, despite the cool temperatures, these Winter months can be the best time to explore the sites, as they’re far less busy. In Cappadocia, the temperature can drop below 0°C, although the snowy landscape is lovely to experience. If you are looking to experience the indoor attractions, the local life, Skiing, and other Winter sports then Winter is your season to visit.
Visiting Turkey in Spring
Spring in Turkey (March, April, May) is known for its lovely moderate weather, fewer tourists, and longer days. Spring is a very nice season to visit Turkey if you are looking to experience unique and natural environments, mild and fresh temperatures, local life, and smaller crowds, and competitively-priced hotels. Although it is a high season for both Istanbul and Cappadocia, Spring in Turkey is an off-season for most of the Aegean and Mediterranean cities.
Visiting Turkey in Summer
Turkey’s climate varies by region. Summer (June, July, August) is the highest season to visit Turkey if you are looking to experience warm temperatures, swimming, comfortable sun loungers, dinners by seasides, and terraces. On the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts temperatures reach 30°C and above in July. Summer in Turkey is a high season for popular destinations such as Istanbul and Antalya but the known cities are less crowded with shorter lines for admission to sights.
Visiting Turkey in Autumn
Autumn in Turkey (September, October, November) is second best with mostly mild weather. The days in Autumn are shorter, with a few rainy ones in October. It is a very good season to travel to Turkey, if you are looking to experience historical sites, mild and comfortable temperatures, competitively-priced hotels, and of course, smaller crowds.
Autumn is one of the best seasons for beach resorts. The water is usually still warm, fewer people, and lower prices compared to Summer.
