May is one of the best times to visit Istanbul, Turkey. As spring is in full bloom, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring this historic and vibrant city. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect from Istanbul’s weather in May.
Overview of May Weather
The average temperature in Istanbul in May ranges from a high of 70°F (21°C) to a low of 57°F (14°C). It’s often sunny and warm during the daytime, though humidity levels remain moderate. Evenings can get a bit chilly at times. Compared to April, temperatures climb quite a bit in May. Daily highs increase by about 10°F from the mid 60s to the low 70s. Overnight lows also rise by around 9°F.
In general, Istanbul enjoys a comfortable Mediterranean climate. Thanks to its location straddling the Bosphorus strait between Europe and Asia, it benefts from oceanic infuences that moderate temperature extremes. Summers are hot but rarely excessively so. Winters feature periods of damp, chilly weather but snowfall is uncommon.
Daily Temperature Changes
During the frst half of May, average high temperatures are in the upper 60s. By the end of the month, they reach into the mid 70s. The hottest days can see highs in the low 80s. In the evenings, lows range from the low to mid 50s at frst. By late May, overnight temperatures are in the low 60s. Occasional cold snaps can bring lows down into the upper 40s.
Over the course of the month, daily temperatures gradually increase. The rise in heat and humidity makes late spring feel like the start of summer in Istanbul. Days become balmier while nights turn milder.
Sunshine and Rainfall
May in Istanbul brings ample sunshine but also increased chances for rain showers. At the start of the month, there’s a 25% probability of precipitation on any given day. This drops to around 20% by May’s end. Istanbul receives about 80 mm (3 inches) of rainfall over the course of the month.
While sunny skies prevail overall, cloud cover decreases as May progresses During the frst half of the month, cloudy conditions occur 40% of the time In the second half, this frequency drops to 30% or less. Rain showers tend to be brief but can be heavy at times.
Humidity and Wind
Relative humidity averages around 65% in May. With moderately humid air, Istanbul feels pleasantly spring-like. The increase in humidity and temperatures makes the city feel warmer than the actual thermometer readings.
Winds are generally light, averaging 5 to 10 mph. The prevailing wind direction is northeasterly ofshore fow from the Bosphorus. On warmer afternoons, pleasant sea breezes develop. Istanbul’s winds help moderate summer heat and humidity.
What to Pack
With pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler nights, light layered clothing works well for Istanbul in May. Breathable materials help cope with humidity. Recommended items include:
- Light jackets and sweaters for the evenings
- Short sleeves shirts and summer dresses
- Light pants or shorts
- A rain jacket or umbrella
- Sandals along with closed toe shoes for walking
A portable fan can provide relief if encountering an unusually hot or humid day. Have sun protection items like sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen on hand as well.
Best Activities
With its mild weather, blooming fowers, and long daylight hours, May is perfect for indulging in Istanbul’s many outdoor sights and attractions. Here are some top activities to enjoy:
- Boating on the Bosphorus strait to see the city’s shoreline and architecture
- Strolling through colorful tulip gardens and parks
- Exploring bazaars and markets while the weather is pleasant
- Visiting historic plazas like Sultanahmet Square in the old city
- Dining al fresco at a café or restaurant with waterfront views
- Attending spring festivals and events like the Istanbul Tulip Festival
- Day tripping to the Princes Islands for beaches, hiking, and biking
In the evenings, you can catch artistic and cultural performances at venues across the city. Seating at outdoor cafes and restaurants is very popular as well.
Travel Tips
- Book accommodations with air conditioning to cope with any hot or humid periods
- Monitor forecasts and pack an umbrella if rain is expected
- Avoid visiting during the Ramadan holiday, which brings crowds
- Be prepared for residential water shutof on some days
- Confirm opening hours for sites as some have reduced times in the shoulder season
- Purchase a tourist pass like the Museum Pass Istanbul to save on entrance fees
The Allure of Spring in Istanbul
With its intoxicating mix of history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty, Istanbul casts its spell during the temperate days of May. As the city blossoms back to life, it’s a joy to dine al fresco above the Bosphorus, wander amid the tulips, and watch the sunset from a café terrace. May invites you to experience Istanbul at its vibrant best, when warm breezes hint that summer is just around the corner.
What’s the Weather like in Istanbul in May
Temperature
The end of spring in Istanbul, May sees pleasantly warm temperatures, lower rainfall averages and a gradually increasing number of sunshine hours. By the end of the month, it should feel much more summery and a little sunbathing may even be possible.
The average temperature in Istanbul in May is a very temperate 16C, with highs of 20C. Overnight, temperatures fall to 12C, which, while cool, is a vast improvement on the very cold nights of the preceding month of April.
The highest temperature ever recorded at this time is 34C, and by the end of the month that will no longer seem so far off. Its a similar story across Turkey, with temperatures in the south of the country generally marginally higher. In Dalaman the average temperature is 19C. Similarly, visitors to Alanya can expect highs of around 20C, with highs of 24C.
Sunshine Hours
As the temperature rises, so do the number of sunshine hours. May sees around 9 hours of sunshine a day on average.
Mornings, particularly in the northernmost parts of the province, are still likely to be a little foggy but it should be clear skies by midday.
Rain
May also sees rainfall averages begin to fall. Only 40mm of rainfall over 9 days is expected throughout the month.
While there are still likely to be occasional showers, they should be light and quite short-lived. It will be wetter in the northernmost part of the province, where rainfall averages are higher all year round. In the south of the country, while the winter was much wetter, rainfall averages have fallen much more dramatically by this time.
Dalaman, for example, expects only 26mm of rainfall over 5 days in May.
Average Sea Temperature
As the temperature rises and precipitation levels decrease, sea temperatures begin to warm up and on average reach a relatively warm 16C. Humidity levels in Istanbul are quite high all year round, but at this time are quite temperate 75%, and falling.
Istanbul Beach for May
Kilyos
Kilyos, 35 km north of the Galata Bridge, faces the deep, chilly waters of the Black Sea and is a favourite getaway for Istanbullus on hot summer afternoons.
Its a little further than some of the other beaches, but very accessible with city buses, minibuses and ferries regularly making the trip.
There is an entry fee, as with many of Istanbuls other beaches. This is also not the best area for swimming, with strong tides and currents, so (outside of peak time sunbathers) its likely to be relatively quiet. There are a few watersports, and cafes serving drinks and snacks, but very few other amenities.
Sile
Sile is a small city on the edge of Istanbul province, about an hours drive from the city.
Its a real favourite with locals, many of whom keep summer houses out here. ile is famous for its beaches, however, at the northernmost point of Istanbul, it shares the same sea conditions as other Black Sea towns and the strong undercurrents can be dangerous for inexperienced swimmers.
The sandy beaches are idyllic and pretty, surrounded by a lovely harbour and rolling green hills.
Best Time to Visit Istanbul, Turkey | WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE? WHAT TO WEAR? WHEN IS LOW SEASON?
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