The Best Time to Visit Turkey

Spring in Turkey: April & May

Why Visit Turkey in the Spring?

If you’re looking to avoid the heat, the spring is a great time to visit Turkey’s famous ruins and beaches. April and May see warm temperatures and a drop in rainfall following the wet season, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sites under clear skies—and before the summer crowds arrive. 

Istanbul’s famous Tulip Festival in mid-April sees millions of tulips bloom across the city just as outdoor markets begin to come alive and afternoons begin to warm. There’s plenty to fill your days here, between exploring the Grand Bazaar and many gardens to taking in the stunning Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Along the Turquoise Coast, waters gradually warm to comfortable swimming temperatures over the course of the spring, and beaches remain pleasantly uncrowded in advance of the summer holiday. Occasional rains aside, this is the perfect window for hiking the Lycian Way, getting lost in whitewashed coastal towns, and spending long days walking (or swimming!) among ruins.

What to Expect on Our Spring Tours

Our Turquoise Coast tours kick off in May, when you can expect days spent exploring Ephesus, Istanbul, and Xanthos and taking refreshing dips in the Mediterranean. We’ll savor seasonal dishes made aboard our gulet, and enjoy the region’s well-preserved Roman, Greek, and Byzantine ruins well ahead of the summer rush.

Summer in Turkey: June, July & August

Why Visit Turkey in the Summer?

Turkey’s coastlines and ancient ruins shine in the summer, when the Mediterranean and Aegean waters are warmed to perfection and the sun bakes well-preserved Greek and Roman sites. The summer holiday brings peak temperatures and peak crowds to the coast, so beaches and cultural sites are at maximum capacity. But for those seeking a true Mediterranean escape, Turkey’s 600 miles of coastline, wealth of ruins, and colorful cities are hard to top.

Along the Turquoise Coast, escape among the white-washed houses of Kalkan, explore the ruins at Xanthos, sail a traditional gulet, visit Hadrian’s Gate in Antalya, or stop in Kas for a fresh Mediterranean meal in the shade. Further west, Istanbul is at its most lively in the summer, with visitors from all over coming to admire the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque or famous spice markets. After long days in the sun, the cooling breeze off the Bosphorus makes an evening river cruise quite appealing.

Those planning to visit central Turkey in the summer should prepare for intense sun and high temperatures—it often reaches 90° in July and August—with little in the way of a cooling breeze. Outdoor activities are best enjoyed in the mornings and evenings.

What to Expect on Our Summer Tours

On a June departure of our Turquoise Coast trip, you’ll explore Ephesus, hike to Roman and Greek sites, cool off by swimming among sunken ruins in a quiet bay, and savor the summer season to the fullest with freshly prepared meals on deck as we cruise the Mediterranean.

On a private gulet charter, you’ll take in the Turquoise Coast from every angle, hiking through pine-forested coastal trails, exploring Byzantine ruins, and enjoying lunch at a rural family farm. Our private Discover Turkey trips take you on a tour of Istanbul’s archeological and architectural wonders—wander Ephesus with a private guide, and explore the Aegean coast’s ancient temples, whitewashed villages, and underwater ruins.

Fall in Turkey: September, October & November

Why Visit Turkey in the Fall?

As the summer crowds head home, fall brings a more peaceful atmosphere to Turkey’s coast and more manageable temperatures to central regions. The Mediterranean waters stay plenty warm for swimming, skies remain fairly clear, and afternoons remain hot, making the start of the fall shoulder season an excellent time to explore Turkey without the hectic buzz of the summer. The rainy season tends to start in November.

In Istanbul, a series of arts festivals, Republic Day celebrations on October 29, and the Istanbul Marathon each November keep the city lively throughout the fall season. Still, fall visitors will encounter a little less congestion at the famous sites.

In Cappadocia, clear skies, calm winds, and fewer travelers make early October an excellent time to take a famous hot air balloon ride. The International Wine Festival also kicks off in late September or early October and features parades, performances, and tastings.

What to Expect on Our Fall Tours

On a September Turquoise Coast trip, you’ll hike secluded trails to less visited ruins, walk through villages along the coast, and bask in the sun as we sail to quiet coves. From cruising down the Bosphorus to sailing a gulet to Kekova Island and snorkeling above Cleopatra’s Baths, fall trips offer all the history, adventure, and spectacular scenery of a summer departure.

Winter in Turkey: December, January & February

Why Visit Turkey in the Winter?

Winter brings a distinct chill to Turkey, with freezing temperatures reaching inland cities. Rain and snow are common as December is in the middle of the wet season that lasts until late March. The coast remains pleasant if slightly chilly, though many beach resorts close for the season. In Cappadocia, hot air balloon rides are less frequent—although no less beautiful—due to unpredictable conditions.

In Istanbul, December ushers in a festive season, although this majority-Muslim country does not technically celebrate Christmas. The Grand Bazaar is a cozy escape perfect for shopping and people watching, while light displays outside mark the holiday season. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace offer a warm refuge and a meditative atmosphere in the winter.

What to Expect on Our Winter Tours

On a Discover Turkey winter trip, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience of Turkey’s archeological wonders, cultural sites, and surreal landscapes. You’ll see the famous fairy towers of Cappadocia topped with snow, explore the ancient underground city of Kaymakli, and explore ancient temples up close during the quiet season.