Best Time to Visit Turkey

Turkey can be an all-around year destination depending on the traveller's interest. The country has diverse weather conditions throughout the year. Moreover, the weather in Turkey can differ at different locations. While one part of Turkey may experience extreme cold, the other may have a glorious summer.

However, if you prefer during moderate weather conditions, the best time to visit Turkey is in the fall and spring seasons, which are in May, April and September to November. During this time, the temperature of the country is between 16°C to 28 °C. Besides this, during this time, travellers can explore various activities and destinations in the country.

However, Turkey can be as exciting during other seasons as well. Read further to know the details.

January in Turkey

During January, many cities in Turkey are generally cold, wet, and grey. All the coastal areas are generally deserted. But it is best to go skiing at the Erzurum or Kars.

Further, many events also happen in January, such as Selcuk Camel Wrestling, Greek Orthodox Epiphany, etc. However, the winter in Turkey is freezing, so many accommodations and outdoor activities are closed.

February in Turkey

In February, the early signs of spring start showing up in Turkey's south coast places like Datca. Usually, in February, people in Turkey celebrate the annual almond blossom festival. It is also an excellent time to enjoy the relaxing Turkey signature hammam spas.

March In Turkey

This is considered the exceptional and best month to visit Turkey for many tourists. During March, the Kurdish community celebrates the Newroz festival, which is the festival for the start of spring.

April in Turkey

In April month, many Australians and New Zealand tourists visit Gallipoli to remember the commemoration of Allied soldiers during World War 2. Further, there is a Tulip Festival in Istanbul and a film festival. It is the best time to visit Istanbul. Tourists also enjoy hiking southern routes like the Carian Trail and Lycian Way.

May In Turkey

May is the summertime in Turkey, and the temperature during this time is between 16°C to 35°C. However, there is a regional temperature variation during this time. It is the best time to go hiking. Many tourists visit the country before the peak season crowd arrives to enjoy rooftop bars and sidewalk cafes.

June In Turkey

June is the peak summer festival season, with a temperature of around 21°C to 35°C. During this time, the coastal region has a balmy sea breeze. Most of the region in the country has outdoor classical concerts. Since the weather this time is decent, beaches this time are crowded with locals and tourists.

July In Turkey

July in Turkey is generally a warm and sunny month, as it falls within the summer season. It is one of the hottest months. The warm weather makes it an ideal time for beach vacations, water activities, and exploring outdoor attractions. Despite the heat, July offers beautiful landscapes, especially in regions like Cappadocia and Pamukkale.

August in Turkey

August continues to be a peak tourist season in Turkey. Many travellers visit popular destinations, coastal resorts, and historical sites. The temperature during this time is between 30°C to 40°C. The countryside can be lush, and outdoor activities like hiking and exploring natural wonders continue to be popular.

September in Turkey

Beach town during the September month in Turkey is not crowded because school breaks end. The weather during this time of the year is delightful. Most tourists come to visit Istanbul during September since it is packed with calendar events such as art exhibitions and events.

October In Turkey

October is the best time for tourists from a cultural and historical point of view. The temperature during this time of year fluctuates between 3°C to 26°C, which makes it convenient for traversing through central regions. There are various vital events such as the Republic Day celebration, the Istanbul Design Biennial, etc.

November In Turkey

November is the time for late autumn in Turkey. During this time, autumn's weather entirely comes into effect. Most parts of the country also welcome the rainy season during this time.

Due to this, most of the crowd this time usually invest in shopping, museums and many other cultural events. Some of the popular events this time happen in Istanbul, such as puppet shows, theatre festivals, marathons, etc.

December in Turkey

Those who want to witness winter in Turkey love to visit the place as there is winter charm in the eastern and central regions. The month offers many skilling opportunities and holiday celebration options.

However, famous hot air ballooning is out of the question due to weather, but tourists can definitely give a try to Cappadocia's famed fairy chimneys.

Turkey is a blend of oriental and European elements. The country boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Every season in the country has some unique offering which is the reason why travellers from all across the world come here. Below is the season-wise tourists' preference to visit Turkey.

High Season

For most tourists, the best time to visit Istanbul and other parts of Turkey is between June to August. Since during this time, the temperature of the country is very moderate, it allows travellers to relax at beaches and enjoy many outdoor activities. However, since this time of year is considered a high season, travellers should make advance bookings.

Pros of Visiting Turkey During Peak or High Season

Many festivals and cultural events take place during Turkey's peak season, offering visitors a chance to experience Turkey's rich cultural heritage.

During the high season, most tourist attractions, restaurants, and services operate at total capacity. This means that tourists can fully enjoy the range of activities and amenities available without worrying about reduced hours.

Public transportation, as well as private transportation services, tend to be more frequent and accessible during the high season. This can make it easier for travellers to move between cities and regions without significant disruptions.

Cons of Visiting During High Season

One of the significant drawbacks to visiting Turkey during peak season is the large crowd which has a high waiting time.

During Turkey's peak season, travellers need to pay premium prices for hotels, tours, and even meals.

The high influx of visitors during peak season can lead to heavier traffic.

Shoulder Season

Another time of the year to visit Turkey is between April to May and September to October. This is considered the spring and fall, and the temperature during this time is enjoyable, neither too hot nor too cold.

During this time, many cities such as Istanbul hold cultural events and lively calendar arts. In the fall season, the water is still warm for swimming on the Mediterranean coast.

Pros of Visiting Turkey During Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Turkey witnesses fewer crowds, which offers a relaxed and immersive experience to tourists.

With fewer tourists, there is generally more flexibility in choosing accommodations.

During the shoulder season, travellers can enjoy vibrant autumn colours and lush green landscapes. It offers a chance to enjoy Turkey's natural beauty.

Cons Of Visiting Turkey During Shoulder Season

Certain outdoor activities during the shoulder season are closed.

Most of the businesses during shoulder season operate at reduced hours.

The local festivals and events are less during the shoulder season compared to peak season.

Low Season

Most tourists consider the period between November to March as a low season to visit Turkey. The weather during this time of the year in Turkey is very dreary. But the country is well known for its museums, which offer travellers a lot to do indoors.

Furthermore, Turkish bath house hammams are another thing which is excellent for warming up during winter time. However, winter in Turkey can be challenging since the local transportation is so limited.

Pros of Visiting Turkey During Low Season

Accommodations, flights, and other travel-related expenses are often significantly cheaper during the low season.

With fewer tourists around, you may have a more authentic and immersive experience, interacting with locals on a deeper level.

In regions where snowfall occurs, such as Cappadocia and some mountainous areas, travellers can enjoy winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, etc.

Cons of Visiting Turkey During Low Season

During the low season, snowfall is common in some regions, which could affect travel plans and outdoor activities.

The low season tends to have a quieter and less lively atmosphere compared to the peak and shoulder seasons.

The price of many businesses may be less but it might operate on reduced hours and offer limited services during low season.

The cheapest time to visit Turkey is between November and the end of April. The travel cost during this time is comparatively low. The hotel accommodation and meals are less expensive. Not just this, tourists will get discounts and offers on various activities and events.

Tourists who are on a tight budget can save up to 20% to 80% on travel expenses and accommodation during this time of the year. However, the weather during this time is extremely cold, so it is advisable to pack lots of warm clothing.

Besides this, it is advisable not to visit Turkey during the summer month which is between June to September. The weather during this time is scorching. The temperature can fall up to the mid-thirties near the southern coast.

The summer months can be suitable for beach and seaside lovers but not for historical site lovers. However, since the beachside during this time is jam-packed, hotels and activities can be overpriced.

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The best time to travel to Turkey depends on the traveller's choice and weather preference. For those who love beaches and outdoor activities, summer would be the ideal season.

Further, for those who want to explore the music, art, and cultural festivals in Istanbul, spring and fall are the best season. However, to visit the country, individuals need to fulfil the travel visa requirement.

What is the most expensive month to visit Turkey?

The most expensive month is also the peak season, which is between June and August. This time is considered as expensive since the Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines of the country are packed with beach lovers. The place is overcrowded which makes the hotel and accommodation very expensive for the tourist.

How many days in Turkey is enough?

To enjoy Turkey's historical and cultural sites to the fullest, it is recommended to plan at least a 7 to 10-day trip. However, if you are flexible, you can visit other regions of the country as well.

What is very famous in Turkey?

Turkey is a country which is famous for its historical sites, pristine beaches, beautiful landscape, cultural events, etc.