Enjoy Pleasant Weather in Turkey This May

Turkey is a stunning country to visit in May, with pleasant daytime temperatures perfect for sightseeing and beachgoing. I recently traveled to Turkey in May and want to share my experience of the weather and top things to do during this lovely spring month.

Overview of May Weather in Turkey

May is a fantastic time to visit Turkey, as it marks the transition from spring to summer. You can expect pleasantly warm daytime highs between 68-77°F (20-25°C) across most of the country. The weather is sunny, with around 8 hours of daily sunshine on average. Coastal cities like Istanbul, Bodrum and Antalya tend to be a bit warmer, reaching the mid-70s Fahrenheit during the day.

Evenings can still be a little cooler, dropping into the 50s F (12-16°C), so I recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater if you’ll be out at night There’s very little rain, just around 1 inch expected over 7 rainy days in May. Humidity levels are moderate and quite comfortable for sightseeing.

Top Destinations and Activities for May

Marvel at the Magnificent Sights of Istanbul

Istanbul is an incredible city to visit in May. With highs around 68°F (20°C), it’s very comfortable to walk around and explore the winding streets, historic mosques, museums and markets. Top attractions like the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are pleasant to tour during the day.

In the evenings I enjoyed strolling along the Bosphorus waterfront and finding a restaurant to sample delicious Turkish cuisine. Some dishes I loved were kebabs baklava and Turkish coffee. With great weather, May is an ideal time to experience this fascinating city.

Float Over Fairy Chimneys in Cappadocia

Cappadocia’s unique lunar-like landscape looks magical as hundreds of hot air balloons drift overhead. I did an early morning balloon ride in May, when temperatures were in the chilly 40s F (7°C). But once the sun rose, it warmed up nicely for exploring the rock formations and underground cave dwellings. Highs reach around 72°F (22°C), perfect for strolling through places like the Goreme Open Air Museum. Definitely a highlight of my trip!

Relax on the Glorious Beaches of Antalya

With summer-like weather, the Turkish Riviera shines in May. In the beach resort city of Antalya, I lounged on soft white sand beaches with temperatures in the mid-70s F (mid-20s C). The turquoise Mediterranean Sea was pleasantly warm for swimming at around 70°F (21°C). If you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, I highly recommend visiting Antalya in May.

See Ancient Ruins in Kusadasi and Ephesus

The Aegean coastal city of Kusadasi serves as a gateway to the incredible Roman ruins of Ephesus, one of the Mediterranean’s best preserved archaeological sites. Temperatures in Kusadasi reach around 81°F (27°C), ideal for exploring the ancient theater, library and marble streets. Nearby, you can also visit the white travertine pools at Pamukkale. May is a perfect time for this area.

Great Events and Festivals

One interesting cultural event held annually on May 5-6 is Hıdırellez, which marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated across Turkey with music, food and dancing. It’s a colorful festival to experience if you’re traveling in early May.

Tips for Visiting in May

• Pack light layers and clothes of breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. I was comfortable in shorts and t-shirts during the day.

• Sun protection is important – bring sunscreen sunglasses and a hat for outdoor activities.

• Hotels and flights tend to be pricier in May as it’s the start of the high tourist season. Book early to get better deals.

• Major tourist sites will be more crowded, especially around Labor Day on May 1st. Be prepared for longer lines and waits.

• Turkish lira usually peaks in value against foreign currencies in May, so it’s a good time for shopping and souvenirs.

Why I Loved Visiting Turkey in May

For pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, and lively festivals, May is an exceptional time to visit Turkey. You can enjoy touring iconic sites in Istanbul and Cappadocia, relax on beautiful beaches along the coasts, and explore ancient ruins without sweltering heat. The moderate temperatures kept me comfortable whether sightseeing outdoors or trying tasty Turkish foods at outdoor cafes. If you’re considering when to go, I highly recommend visiting Turkey in May for an unforgettable experience.