Hot air balloons floating over Cappadocia, tulips blooming across Istanbul in April, snow-covered mountains in Erzurum, and sunsets over the Aegean… Without a doubt, Turkey is a year-round travel destination!
But with so many incredible places to visit and things to do, you might be wondering: When is the best time to visit Turkey?
Most travelers (and locals like us) agree that spring is the best season to visit Turkey, with autumn coming in at a close second. The weather during these seasons is pleasantly mild, the prices are lower, and there are fewer crowds compared to summer.
Summer in Turkey turns up the heat (quite literally), which is perfect if you’re planning a trip to coastal cities like Bodrum and Antalya.
On the other hand, we usually see winter get a bad reputation online (with some people calling it the “Worst time to visit Turkey” 🥲) — but we disagree! Winter is an excellent time to go skiing in Turkey (Palandöken and Mt. Uludag are the best) or enjoy Istanbul without the crowds.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at when to visit Turkey!
When to Visit Turkey: Overview
Thanks to the country’s 11 climactic zones (yes, the climate in Turkey is certainly diverse!) and the surrounding major bodies of water (Black Sea, Aegean Sea, and Mediterranean Sea), Turkey is a scenic year-round playground.
Let’s take a look at all four seasons in Turkey, their pros/cons, and where to go. Don’t worry, we’ll talk in-depth about each season after this section!
Quick Facts
High season: June to August (summer holiday rush, especially along the coast)
Shoulder seasons: April to May + September to October (best weather and fewer crowds)
Low season: November to March (cold in most regions, but great for winter travel!)
Best time for beaches: June to early September
Best time for sightseeing: April, May, September, October
Best time for skiing: Late December to February
Best time for couples & honeymoons: May to June, September. Read our honeymoon guide →
Seasons in Turkey: Comparison Table
| Season | Pros | Cons | Best For | Where to go |
| Spring (March, April, May) | Mild, pleasant weather Blooming flowers + green landscapes Fewer crowds and better prices Festivals & cultural events | Can be rainy or chilly in early spring Some resorts not fully open until May Allergy season | Seeing the blooming flowers, culture lovers, road trippers, outdoor explorers | Istanbul (Tulip Festival), Isparta (roses), Cappadocia (late spring), Lake Van (almond blossoms), Antalya, Ephesus, Alaçatı |
| Summer (June, July, August) | Beach weather Long daylight hours All attractions and resorts fully open Festivals, concerts, nightlife in full swing Best chance of hot air balloons flying in Cappadocia | Can get very hot in inland and southeast regions Peak crowds and peak prices Some places too hot to enjoy comfortably | Beach lovers, resort goers, party people, families with school holidays | Bodrum, Kaş, Fethiye, Antalya, Çeşme & Alaçatı, Aegean Region & Island hopping |
| Autumn (September, October, November) | Still warm (especially Sept/Oct) Fewer tourists Golden foliage in the north & east Harvest season for wine and food | Shorter days by late autumn Some beach resorts start to close around November | Culture and history fans, budget travelers, foodies, photographers, off-season travelers | Cappadocia (hot air balloons!), Mardin, Şirince, Bozcaada, Black Sea highlands, Safranbolu |
| Winter (December, January, February) | Cheapest hotel prices Snowy landscapes Great for skiing and thermal resorts A cozy local atmosphere in cities | Not the best time if you’re not a fan of the cold Fewer outdoor activities Shorter daylight hours | Skiers, spa-seekers, snow lovers, city break travelers, budget travelers | Istanbul (museums and hamams), Uludağ (skiing), Erzurum, Kars, Pamukkale (thermal pools) |
Still planning your trip to Turkey? We talk about all four seasons in our dedicated posts:
Turkey in Summer | Turkey in Spring | Turkey in Autumn | Turkey in Winter
Turkey in Spring (March to May)
As we mentioned in the introduction, spring is an ideal time to visit Turkey and a typical “fan favorite” of our readers.
From March to May, the entire country starts to wake up. Tulips burst into bloom across Istanbul, Cappadocia’s valleys turn green, and the air feels crisp and full of possibility. It’s the perfect season for long walks through historic streets, slow Turkish breakfasts on sunny terraces, and epic road trips.
Spring in Turkey is also marked with plenty of festivals. One of the most iconic is the Istanbul Tulip Festival, which happens throughout April and transforms parks like Emirgan and Gülhane into vibrant displays of color.
Meanwhile, events like the Izmir Jazz Festival, Istanbul Film Festival, and the Tour of Turkey cycling race add some excitement. In early May, Hıdırellez marks the arrival of spring with bonfires, dancing, and riverside celebrations, especially in Istanbul and Edirne.
Spring and the beginning of summer are also the best time to visit Turkey for couples! Think of it like this: May and June are usually the most popular months to get married, and most couples usually go on a honeymoon right after saying “I do.” We cover this more in our 10-Day Classic Turkey Honeymoon Itinerary, How to Plan a Honeymoon to Turkey, and 15 Most Romantic Places in Turkey.
Weather in Turkey in Spring
Weather-wise, March still carries the chill of winter, especially in the eastern and central regions, with average temperatures ranging from 2.5 C to 12.5 C (36–54 F). In Istanbul, expect around 8–10 C (46–50 F) — depending on the weather, you might also have short rain showers.
April is when spring truly arrives: trees fill out with leaves, tulips and Judas trees bloom along the Bosphorus, and cities like Izmir and Istanbul warm up. The average temperature in Turkey in April is a pleasant 16 C (62 F) in cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir. Meanwhile, Cappadocia is still a bit chilly at around 11 C (52 F).
By May, everything feels soft and summery without the heat — average temperatures sit around 16 C to 27 C (61–81 F), depending on where you are. It’s ideal weather for road tripping along the Aegean coast, hiking in the Mediterranean (such as the Lycian Way), or soaking up the views in towns like Safranbolu.
Here’s a quick overview of what we just discussed:
🌸 March: Still chilly, especially in central and eastern regions. Expect 2.5 C to 12.5 C (36 to 54 F). Definitely bring a coat and layer up!
🌸 April: Spring fully arrives! Average temperatures rise to about 11 C to 21 C (52 to 70 F) in cities like Istanbul and Izmir. Beach destinations start warming up.
🌸 May: Arguably the best month to visit. Lush greenery, warm (but not hot) weather, and long days. Temperatures are pleasantly warm at 16 C to 27 C (61–81 F).
Personally, we think that the best time to visit Istanbul is mid-April to mid-May — tulips are in full bloom, ferry rides are back in season, and if you time it right, you’ll catch the Judas trees (erguvan) blooming all along the Bosphorus.
Best Places to Visit in Turkey in Spring
Istanbul turns into a flower lover’s dream with magnolias, tulips, sakura, and Judas trees all blooming in turn. Meanwhile, Ephesus feels extra magical without the crowds, and Aegean towns like Alaçatı serve cobblestone charm minus the summer crowds.
Nature is on full display too. Almond blossoms cover Akdamar Island in Lake Van, Dalyan’s turtles return to İztuzu Beach, and Isparta’s rose fields kick off the season. Even Bodrum and Antalya stay chill (weather-wise and crowd-wise), while Cappadocia starts to shine in May with balloon rides.
Spring is also one of the best times to visit southeastern Turkey, including Şanlıurfa, Mardin, and Gaziantep. These cities can reach 40 C (104 F) or more in summer, but in April and May, they’re sunny, dry, and still comfortable, averaging around 20–27 C (68–81 F).
Spring in Türkiye
From tulips in Istanbul to cultural festivals, fantastic weather, and a lovely atmosphere, spring has it all! Read more in our dedicated travel guide:
Turkey in Summer (June to August)
Summer in Turkey is categorized by sunshine, sea breezes, and long, lazy days. From mid-June through August, coastal cities buzz with life as locals and tourists alike flock to the Aegean and Mediterranean.
Ah, could you imagine sipping iced coffee at a cute streetside cafe in Alaçatı, enjoying an open-air concert in Bodrum, or a turquoise water dip in Kaş under clear skies?
It’s peak season, and for good reason. The weather is hot — often very hot inland — but it’s just right for beach holidays. The coastline comes alive with gület cruises and beach clubs, and resort towns like Antalya, Bodrum, Fethiye, and Alaçatı are at their liveliest.
Sure, it gets crowded. And yes, hotel prices jump, especially in July and August. But if you stick to the coast or the highlands, you’ll find that summer in Turkey has its own kind of magic: warm hospitality, late-night dinners at meyhanes (tavernas), and midnight strolls through cobblestone alleys filled with the scent of jasmine. 😌
Interestingly, summer is the best time to visit Cappadocia (before the heat fully kicks in), especially if you’re planning to take a hot air balloon ride. That’s because warm, stable weather and calmer winds mean more hot air balloon flights actually take off. (They don’t fly every day — balloon rides are canceled when winds are too strong or unpredictable, which happens more often in late autumn and winter.)
We really, really, really (really) recommend booking early if you plan to travel to Turkey in the summer — the best hotels get booked up months in advance. For context, over 50 million tourists visited Turkey in 2023, so you can imagine how popular summer gets!
Weather in Turkey in Summer
Summer in Turkey is all about the heat, whether that’s beachy heat, breezy heat, or the “Oof, it’s hot outside” kind of heat.
The hottest month in Turkey is usually August, but July can easily take the crown depending on the year.
For example, as we’re writing this blog post in late August 2025, this year brought a heat wave in mid-July, with temperatures reaching 33–35 C (91–95 F) across Istanbul, Izmir, and the Aegean! August, on the other hand, surprised us with milder days around 28–30 C (82–86 F).
Humidity can also be intense in cities like Istanbul and Antalya (the humidity + weather in Turkey in July is no joke!), so it’s best to schedule outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon.
In Istanbul, expect warm, often humid days with average temperatures between 28–32 C (82–90 F) in July and August. The sea breeze helps a bit, but it can still feel sticky, especially in the afternoons. Thankfully, shady parks, seaside cafes, and evening ferry rides offer some relief.
Along the Aegean Coast (İzmir, Çeşme, Alaçatı, Bodrum), it’s textbook summer weather: 29–35 C (84–95 F), with dry heat and constant sunshine. Nights are cooler and perfect for al fresco dinners and evening strolls. This region also has that iconic meltemi wind — a light, dry summer breeze that keeps things comfortable even during the hottest weeks.
The Mediterranean region (Antalya, Kaş, Fethiye) is hotter and more humid, often climbing to 32–38 C (90–100 F) in July and August. It’s great for swimming and boat tours, but sightseeing in the heat of the day, not so much. I remember when we were stuck in Antalya during ✨certain events ✨ in 2020, and we had some days when the temperature went up to 45 C (113 F)! (Thankfully, our landlady installed a powerful air conditioner just a week prior 🥲👍)
Meanwhile, Central Anatolia/inland cities like Konya, Ankara, and especially Şanlıurfa and Gaziantep can be brutally hot, regularly hitting 40 C (104 F) or more. These regions are best avoided in summer (check out our Spring or Autumn sections instead!)
Best Places to Visit in Turkey in Summer
If your ideal summer day involves the beach, fresh seafood, and turquoise water, Turkey’s southwest coast certainly delivers. Bodrum and Alaçatı offer chic jetset vibes, while Kaş and Kalkan are perfect for slower romantic escapes.
For a bit of wild nature, head to Butterfly Valley near Fethiye. Other unspoiled spots worth adding to your list include Patara Beach (yes, it’s that iconic beach in every magazine!), Suluada Island (nicknamed the Maldives of Turkey), and the hidden coves around Olympos.
As mentioned above, Cappadocia is surprisingly great in summer too, especially in the early morning when hot air balloons dot the sky (and calmer winds mean more flights take off).
Ifthe heat gets too intense, no worries — you can escape to the cooler highlands of the Black Sea region like Rize, Trabzon, and Uzungöl, where misty forests and mountain breezes feel like another world. Summer is also when yaylas (mountain pastures) come alive with flower fields, wooden cottages, and locals going to their summer homes.
One of the best cities to visit in Turkey in July is Izmir, a lively coastal city. You’ll find breezy evenings along the Kordon promenade, third-wave coffee shops, and easy day trips to places like Çeşme, Ephesus, and Şirince.
Other great summer destinations in Turkey include Datça (seriously underrated and full of hidden bays!), Marmaris, Fethiye, and the Aegean islands of Bozcaada and Gökçeada (where you’ll find whitewashed stone villages, traditional stone houses, and boutique wineries).
Summer in Türkiye? Let’s go!
From idyllic blue beaches along the Aegean to cool plateaus on the Black Sea, moonlit Bosphorus cruises, and lively coastal towns, traveling to Turkey in the summer is magical.
Why not check out our full guide below?
Turkey in Autumn (September to November)
Without a doubt, autumn is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to traveling in Turkey! While summer steals the spotlight, September through November is when things truly mellow out — the crowds thin, the heat fades, and the landscapes turn golden.
Fall in Turkey is that sweet spot where beach weather still lingers in the south, Cappadocia becomes dreamy and crisp, and cities like Istanbul and Izmir are at their most walkable.
From grape harvest festivals in wine country to golden foliage in the Black Sea highlands, this is the season for slow travel, good lighting, and comfy layers. Oh, and did we mention fewer tourists and lower hotel prices? 😉
Weather in Turkey in Autumn
🍁 September still feels like summer in most of the country, especially along the Aegean and Mediterranean, where temperatures hover around 25–30 C (77–86 F) during the day. It’s perfect for a late beach holiday without the summer rush. In Istanbul and central regions, you’ll notice cooler mornings and evenings creeping in, but it’s still pleasantly warm.
🍁 The temperature in Turkey in October is around 18–25 C (64–77 F) along the coast, while inland areas like Cappadocia cool down to around 10–20 C (50–68 F). This is also prime balloon season in Cappadocia thanks to clear skies and gentle winds.
🍁 By November, it’s officially sweater weather. Expect 10–16 C (50–61 F) in Istanbul and the west, while eastern Turkey dips closer to freezing at night. That said, if you pack layers, it’s still a fantastic time to explore cities, enjoy outdoor strolls, or soak in thermal springs or hamams.
Best Places to Visit in Turkey in Autumn
Istanbul in autumn? Perfection! With mild weather, fewer tourists, and golden light bouncing off domes and minarets, it’s a photographer’s dream. Ferry rides on the Bosphorus feel extra romantic, and it’s the best time to stroll neighborhoods like Balat, Kuzguncuk, and Arnavutköy without breaking a sweat.
Nature lovers should head north. Places like Bolu and Yedigöller National Park, Abant Lake, and Artvin are famous for fall foliage. The forests around the Black Sea are full of hiking trails, mountain cabins, and foggy mornings.
Autumn is also the perfect time to explore ancient sites like Ephesus and Pamukkale without the scorching sun. These sites finally breathe again after summer and so will you. 🙂
And don’t sleep on the southeastern cities! Like we mentioned above, Şanlıurfa, Mardin, and Gaziantep hit 40 C+ in summer, but by October they’re warm, dry, and perfect for a culture trip. Order an iconic künefe and watch the sun set over the Mesopotamian plains.
Bonus tip: Fall in Turkey is wine season! October is harvest time in Urla, Bozcaada, and the Thracian wine route, so you can enjoy tastings, vineyard dinners, and some very chic moments.
Let’s Cozy Up To Türkiye in Autumn…
Ahh, is there anything more cozy than Turkey during the fall? The leaves turn into beautiful golden colors, the wine festivals are in full swing in the Aegean, and cozy cabins are calling your name.
Turkey in Winter (December to February)
Winter in Turkey is a bit of a hidden gem. While most travelers flock here in spring or summer, the colder months offer a quieter, cheaper, and surprisingly beautiful experience with snow-capped minarets, hamam escapes, and budget-friendly prices across the country.
It’s also the cheapest time to visit Turkey, especially if you book flights and hotels a bit in advance. Fewer crowds mean better deals, less waiting in line, and more space to soak in the sights, whether thats the Blue Mosque under snow or sipping hot salep at a local cafe.
Despite being Turkey’s low season, winter is the perfect time for fans of snow sports to hit the slopes in places like Uludağ, Palandöken, or even the up-and-coming ski spots near Kayseri.
While many people imagine Istanbul as a sunny city, it does get snow too! That said, snow in Istanbul only lasts for a few days per year (🥲) and really depends on the weather patterns. When it does fall, it’s magical — but don’t count on it as a guarantee!
One important thing to note is that winter is when Turkey has its shortest daylight hours. Most cities have daylight from around 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, so it’s best to schedule sightseeing earlier in the day, then do your indoor activities (i.e. visiting museums, cafes, or hammams) once the sun goes down to maximize your time (and daylight hours!)
Weather in Turkey in Winter
One of the most popular questions we usually get is, Is Turkey hot in December? (and alternatively, Does it snow in Turkey? 😁)
And the answers are… not hot, and yes, snow is absolutely on the table (depending where you are!)
❄️ Temperature in Turkey in December varies by region, but overall, it’s chilly, especially inland. Coastal areas like Izmir, Antalya, and Bodrum hover between 10–15 C (50–59 F), while central and eastern Turkey get much colder.
❄️ January is the coldest month, with average temperatures between -1.5°C to 7 C (29–45 F).
❄️ February warms up just a little, with averages between -1 C to 8.5 C (30–47 F), but snow remains common in the interior.
Istanbul averages around 5–10 C (41–50 F), with a chance of light snow in January or February. We remember an especially crazy winter back in 2022, when there was a snowstorm in the middle of March!
Meanwhile, Cappadocia drops below freezing at night and can be covered in snow (making it even more photogenic). Visiting Eastern cities like Erzurum or Kars? Expect plenty of snow and temperatures in the negatives, but also some of the best ski conditions in the region.
Best Places to Visit in Turkey in Winter
So, what are the best cities to visit in Turkey during winter?
Istanbul is always a classic choice — just imagine Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace under a soft snowfall, ferry rides through foggy Bosphorus mornings, and warm cups of salep. Winter also means shorter lines at museums, cheaper hotel deals, and way fewer tourists at popular landmarks. We even have a list of things to do in Istanbul during winter! →
Activity-wise, winter is prime time for hammams. Going to a Turkish bath feel extra luxurious when it’s cold outside, and there’s nothing like stepping out of a steamy marble room wrapped in a fluffy peshtemel while the snow falls outside. We especially love the beautiful design of Cağaloğlu Hamamı or going to the oldest hamam in Istanbul, Ağa Hamamı!
If you’re looking to shred some snow, look no further than Bursa or Erzurum. Bursa is home to Mount Uludağ, one of Turkey’s most popular ski resorts. It’s just a few hours from Istanbul and has 13 ski runs spread across 28 kilometers. Bonus: the city of Bursa is famous for its traditional architecture, history (it was the first capital of the Ottoman empire!), and delicious food (home to the Iskender kebab).
Erzurum is another great option, especially for those who love adventure. Located on the easternmost corners of Anatolia, this city’s claim to fame are its snow-capped mountains, thermal hot springs, and the ski resorts along Mt. Palandoken. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect recipe for a winter trip in Turkey?
Want to skip the snow? Take a plane to Antalya, Mersin, or even Alanya. While it’s not exactly beach weather, these coastal cities are still pleasant in winter with their palm trees, sea views, and pleasant weather.
Brrr… Do You Feel the Chill?
Fewer crowds? Check. Lower prices? Check. Mild winter weather? Usually. Traveling to Turkey in the winter has a special kind of atmosphere that often gets overlooked by tourists.
Check out our guide below for our winter weather secrets!
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