You can visit Istanbul all year round. For many travellers spring and autumn are the most pleasant time – in summer it gets warm, and from autumn to spring you should plan for rain protection.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul? Climate, temperatures and rain, what spring and autumn offer, how to plan summer and winter – plus Ramadan and public holidays.
We plan Istanbul by routes and neighbourhoods, and the weather is part of that planning: it decides how long you feel like walking outside and whether a ferry ride is fun.
- Istanbul has a mild, humid maritime climate.
- Spring (April, May) and autumn (September, October) are generally considered the most pleasant time to travel.
- Summer: warm, sun protection and light clothing. Winter: cool and rainy, a warm, windproof jacket.
- Around two thirds of the rainfall comes in autumn and winter – plan for rain protection from October into spring.
- Check time-dependent things such as Ramadan, public holidays and closing days before the trip.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
In short: For most travellers April to May and September to October: mild, good for walking, less heat than in summer. Istanbul is doable all year round, though – the route stays the same, only clothing and pace change.
What is the climate like in Istanbul?
Istanbul lies between Mediterranean and Black Sea influence and has a mild, humid maritime climate. According to Wikipedia's climate table, January averages around 6 °C and July around 24 °C; annual precipitation is around 865 mm, about two thirds of it in autumn and winter. On average there are around 5.9 hours of sunshine per day, considerably fewer in winter.
Two winds shape the feel: the Poyraz (north-east) brings cool air from the sea, the Lodos (south-west) warm, humid air. As a result a day can feel considerably cooler than the temperature suggests.
Spring and autumn
For routes with a lot of walking, spring and autumn are pleasant. Our routes are built for long days on foot, with tram and ferry: 3 days, 4 days, 5 days.
Summer
In summer it gets warm; in our articles we have even written about 32 degrees. Plan breaks in the shade, water and early starts. In summer a fan and a cap help us, as described in the packing list.
Winter
In winter it is cool and damp. Pack a warm, windproof jacket, waterproof shoes and layers – our February experience showed us that “sunny today” doesn't mean the day will stay that way. Our route for day 2 also describes a New Year's Eve tip above the rooftops.
Ramadan, public holidays and closing days
- Ramadan and the religious holidays shift every year because the Islamic calendar follows the moon. Check the dates for your travel dates.
- According to visitor information, opening hours in Turkey usually change little during Ramadan. It is respectful not to eat or drink ostentatiously during the day.
- Public holidays can bring special opening rules – at the Dolmabahçe Palace, for example. Museums and palaces have fixed closing days: Topkapı on Tuesdays according to visitor information, the Çamlıca Tower on Mondays.
- Check opening days, times and prices on the official sites shortly before your visit.
Best time to travel with children
With children we plan less and leave room. More on this in Istanbul with Children.
What does the travel season cost?
Season, weekend and view change hotel prices considerably. How to put that into perspective is explained in What Does Istanbul Really Cost?.
Frequently asked questions
Which month is the warmest?
In summer, especially July and August, it is warmest.
Do I need an umbrella in autumn?
Yes, a small umbrella goes into our luggage from autumn on.
– Amra
