The best time to visit Turkey depends on what you’re interested in. April, May, September and October are pleasantly warm, with temperatures of 68°F to 86°F, so are typically the best times to visit Turkey’s grand array of ancient sites.
The summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast. This is perfect for lounging by the sea or a pool, although visiting the sites can be quite uncomfortable.
The weather begins to cool off from late October. November through to March can get quite cold and many hotels in coastal areas close during these months. However, despite the cool temperatures, these winter months can be the best time to explore the sites, as they’re far less busy. In Cappadocia, the temperature can drop below 32°F, although the snowy landscape is lovely to behold. Creating tailor-made tours for over 25 years
October brings a welcomed change to Turkey as the country transitions gracefully from the heat of summer into a more comfortable autumn season. The average temperature gently dips to a pleasant range of 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) across most of the country, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Here’s an overview of what to expect weather-wise and activity-wise if you’re planning a visit to Turkey in October.
Moderate Temperatures Create Excellent Conditions
While Turkey’s coastal regions can still reach 25°C (77°F) in early October, interior cities like Cappadocia and Ankara see average highs of 15°C (59°F). Even Istanbul and Izmir enjoy comfortable afternoon temperatures around 20°C (68°F).
The days are shorter and the chance of rain increases in October, but it’s minimal compared to winter. You may need a light jacket for evenings but light clothing and layers work well for daytime exploring. These moderate temperatures create excellent conditions for hiking walking city streets, and sightseeing ruins without enduring summer’s harsh heat.
Fewer Crowds Enhance the Experience
October is considered shoulder season in Turkey, so you’ll avoid the peak crowds and prices of summer However, Cappadocia and Istanbul remain popular due to ideal weather for their top attractions Booking lodging in advance secures availability in these destinations.
Meanwhile, beach resorts empty out as Europeans return home You’ll find discounted hotel rates and uncrowded sands along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts The swimming is still comfortably warm in early October before the water cools. This presents a budget-friendly opportunity to relax on famed blue flag beaches.
Outdoor Activities Abound
Pleasant weather and sparse crowds make October ideal for hiking adventures. Treks like Turkey’s famous 500-mile Lycian Way offer coastline vistas and ancient ruins. Cappadocia’s lunar landscapes present endless hiking options amid unique rock formations and cave dwellings. For a climb to over 7,000 feet, tackle the summit of Mount Nemrut where 2,000-year-old tombs await.
October also brings bountiful harvest festivals and culinary celebrations. Sip Turkish coffee at local coffee fests or sample the region’s freshest olive oil. Partake in the buzz of Republic Day on October 29th as cities host concerts, parades and fireworks.
What to Pack
While Turkey cools in October, the beginning of the month still carries summer’s warmth. Swimsuits and sandals suit beachgoers in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions. However, toss in some pants, sweatshirts and light jackets for chilly mornings and evenings.
As the month progresses, autumn creeps in with declining temperatures and increasing rain. Dress in layers and bring waterproof shoes and jackets for late October. Check forecasts to aid packing decisions based on your specific destinations. With flexible clothing choices, you can comfortably experience Turkey’s scenic diversity.
Ideal Regions to Visit
- Istanbul and Cappadocia – Top sites and landscapes perfectly enjoyed during moderate autumn temperatures.
- Aegean Coast – Warm seas for swimming and light crowds on the beaches.
- Ephesus, Pamukkale, Selçuk – Pleasant weather for exploring ruins and hot springs.
- Lycian Coast – Ideal hiking temperatures along mountainous coastline.
- Anatolia – Vibrant fall foliage in the lakes region.
Plan Your Autumn Turkey Getaway
October offers the best of both worlds in Turkey – minimal crowds, discounted rates, comfortable temperatures, and sunny days mixed with autumn’s subtle chill. For history buffs, outdoor adventurers, budget travelers and culture seekers, October provides ideal conditions to experience this diverse country. As Turkey’s landscape transforms into a palette of autumn hues, savory harvest flavors abound. From Cappadocia’s cave dwellings to ancient coastal ruins, Turkey in October delights the senses and rejuvenates the spirit.
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Practical tips for traveling to Turkey, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.
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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Turkey
Visiting Turkey in January – March
January, February and March are fairly cold months in Turkey, although temperatures do warm up by March. Snow is not uncommon in January and even February, especially in the interior around Cappadocia. Because of the low temperatures this is a quiet time to visit Turkey, so you are likely to have the sites more or less to yourself.
Visiting Turkey in April – May
The temperatures in these spring months are moderate, making this an ideal time to visit the many ancient ruined sites dotted around the country. April is also peak tulip season, and the parks and gardens of Istanbul are bursting with color; although it can be rainy during April too. As this is such an ideal time to visit Turkey it is also the most expensive for hotels in places such as Istanbul and Cappadocia. However, many of the hotels along the Turquoise Coast are still closed.
- Hidrellez Festival (May 5 to 6): Celebrating the start of spring, this festival includes street performances by traditional gypsy bands.
- The International Istanbul Film Festival: With the aim of promoting excellent cinematic theater in Turkey this event takes place every year in Istanbul.
Visiting Turkey in June – August
The summer months, from mid-June through to mid-September are very hot, perfect for relaxing on the beautiful Turquoise Coast and swimming in the Mediterranean. However, these high temperatures make exploring Turkeys ancient heritage quite uncomfortable, as there tends to be little or no shade at the plethora of ancient sites. This is also peak season for cruise ships, making coastal resorts and the more popular ancient sites such as Ephesus very busy. Cappadocia, by contrast, tends to be quieter over the summer months, and beautifully carpeted with wild flowers throughout, making this a great time for hiking.
- Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival (June and July): Set within the spectacular Aspendos Roman theater, the festival hosts numerous performances by international ballet and opera companies.
Visiting Turkey in September – October
Early September is still hot, but from the middle of the month onward temperatures begin to cool, although sea and land temperatures are still warm, creating similar conditions to the spring months but with shorter days. Again, this is an excellent time to explore the cities and ancient sites, as well as to visit the Turquoise Coast as prices are lower and crowds are fewer. Prices tend to be high for the boutique hotels in Istanbul and Cappadocia, although hotels along the Mediterranean typically close by mid-October.
- International Wine Festival (end of October): Annually held with wine tasting events from local vineyards in Cappadocia.
- Republic Day (October 29): Celebrated across the country, but most vibrantly in Istanbul, with various art events and firework displays.
Visiting Turkey in November – December
In November and December its quite chilly throughout most of the country, with the exception of the southeast (around Antalya) which remains fairly warm. Temperatures in Konya and Cappadocia can be quite cold and snow is not uncommon, creating fantastic panoramas. Istanbul is much quieter than at other times of the year, making this a great time to visit if you dont mind the cooler temperatures and occasional rain or snow.
- Mevlana and Whirling Dervish Festival: This annual ten-day event commemorates Rumi, with various events and ceremonies taking place in open-air locations around Konya.
| Destination | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ankara | 39°F 2″ | 45°F 1″ | 54°F 1″ | 63°F 2″ | 72°F 2″ | 79°F 1″ | 86°F 1″ | 86°F 0″ | 79°F 1″ | 68°F 1″ | 55°F 1″ | 45°F 2″ |
| Antalya | 57°F 9″ | 57°F 6″ | 63°F 4″ | 70°F 2″ | 77°F 1″ | 86°F 0″ | 91°F 0″ | 91°F 0″ | 86°F 0″ | 77°F 3″ | 68°F 5″ | 59°F 10″ |
| Bodrum | 57°F 7″ | 57°F 5″ | 61°F 3″ | 68°F 1″ | 77°F 1″ | 86°F 0″ | 91°F 0″ | 90°F 0″ | 84°F 1″ | 75°F 2″ | 66°F 4″ | 59°F 6″ |
| Cappadocia | 37°F 2″ | 43°F 1″ | 50°F 2″ | 61°F 2″ | 68°F 2″ | 75°F 1″ | 82°F 0″ | 82°F 0″ | 75°F 1″ | 64°F 1″ | 54°F 1″ | 43°F 2″ |
| Istanbul | 48°F 4″ | 48°F 3″ | 52°F 3″ | 61°F 2″ | 70°F 1″ | 77°F 1″ | 82°F 1″ | 82°F 1″ | 75°F 2″ | 68°F 3″ | 59°F 4″ | 52°F 5″ |
| Kalkan | 54°F 7″ | 55°F 5″ | 61°F 3″ | 66°F 2″ | 75°F 1″ | 82°F 1″ | 90°F 0″ | 90°F 0″ | 84°F 1″ | 75°F 2″ | 64°F 4″ | 57°F 7″ |
| Konya | 39°F 2″ | 45°F 1″ | 52°F 1″ | 63°F 1″ | 72°F 2″ | 81°F 1″ | 86°F 0″ | 86°F 0″ | 79°F 0″ | 68°F 1″ | 55°F 1″ | 43°F 2″ |
| Pamukkale | 50°F 4″ | 54°F 3″ | 59°F 2″ | 68°F 2″ | 77°F 1″ | 86°F 1″ | 91°F 1″ | 91°F 0″ | 84°F 1″ | 73°F 2″ | 63°F 2″ | 54°F 4″ |
Best Time to Visit Istanbul, Turkey | WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE? WHAT TO WEAR? WHEN IS LOW SEASON?
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