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TF4401887Full Ortakoy Mosque and Bosphorus bridge in Istanbul at sunrise, Turkey

Best Time to Visit Turkey

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By Shelley Pigram


Turkey is a destination that has it all; beaches, history, incredible food, and stunning, varied landscapes. So timing your trip to Turkey can make all the difference!

But when is the best time to visit Turkey? Read on for our guide to find out…

So when is the best time to visit Turkey?

If you want the best overall holiday experience, aim to visit between April and June, or September and October. During these months you’ll get warm comfortable weather, plenty of sunshine without the extreme heat, fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, and ideal conditions for both sightseeing and relaxing.


These periods offer the kind of weather where you can explore ancient ruins in the morning and sit outside for dinner in the evening without feeling drained by the heat.


Turkish lamps for sale in Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey

Visiting Turkey in the Spring (April to June)

Spring is easily one of the best times to visit Turkey.


The weather is warm but not overwhelming, making it the perfect time of year to explore places like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus. You’ll also see the countryside at its greenest, with wildflowers and clear skies adding to the scenery.


Spring is the best time to visit Turkey for:


• City breaks and cultural sightseeing

• Hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia

• Walking tours and outdoor exploring


You’ll avoid the intense summer heat and larger crowds while still getting some great weather.


Balloons at sunrise, Goreme, Cappadocia, Anatolia, Turkey

Visiting Turkey in the Summer (July to August)

Summer in Turkey is peak season, especially along the coast.


If the main goal of your holiday is beaches and sunshine, then this could be the best time to visit Turkey. Coastal areas like Antalya, Bodrum and Marmaris are hot, lively, and packed with visitors.


However, it does get VERY hot! Especially inland. Cities like Istanbul can feel humid, and places like Cappadocia can be intense during the day.


Summer is the best time to visit Turkey for:


• Temperatures above 30°C

• Beach time

• A lively atmosphere


This is a great time of year for beach holidays, but less ideal for full sightseeing.


Damlatas Cleopatra Beach, Antalya, Turkey

Visiting Turkey in the Autumn (September to October)

Autumn if often overlooked, but it’s arguably just as good as visiting Turkey in the Spring, if not better!


The summer crowds begin to disperse, but the weather stays nice and warm, especially in September. The sea temperature is still great for swimming, and the cities become much more comfortable to explore.


Autumn is the best time to visit Turkey for:


• A mix of beach and culture

• More relaxed travel experiences

• Better value compared to the peak summer months


If you want to experience the best of everything, then Autumn is a great time to visit!


Istanbul in Turkey in the Autumn

Visiting Turkey in the Winter (November to March)

Winter is a completely different experience in Turkey, but that doesn’t mean you should rule it out completely.


Istanbul can be cold and sometimes rainy, but it’s quieter and more atmospheric. Cappadocia can also look incredible under a layer of snow!


You won’t get beach weather at this time of year, but Winter is the best time to visit Turkey for:


• Lower prices

• Fewer tourists

• A more local feel


Winter in Turkey is much better suited to city breaks and cultural trips rather than a classic beach holiday.


Galata Tower, Istanbul, view from the narrow street, Turkey

A Note on Turkey’s Weather Differences

Turkey is a big country, and the weather varies more than people expect!


Coastal areas like Antalya and Bodrum have hot summers and mild winters, Istanbul sits somewhere in the middle with a mix of climates, and inland regions like Cappadocia have colder winters and warmer summers.

For more inspiration take a look at our Turkey Holidays pages.

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Written by Shelley Pigram

Shelley is Trailfinders' Website Performance Lead, based in our head office in Kensington. Shelley has worked at Trailfinders since 2007 and has travelled to 41 countries. Her favourite destinations include Bali, Spain and New York City.

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