When Is the Best Time to Visit Turkey?

In a country so enticing, it’s no surprise that Turkey’s coastline draws in hundreds of visitors during its peak season. The Turkish Riviera’s beautiful beaches are, understandably though, best enjoyed without the crowds. To experience the Aegean and Mediterranean in relative seclusion, visit in either spring or autumn. In July and August, temperatures can become uncomfortably hot, so the shoulder seasons offer a welcome respite from the extreme weather. The crowds are thinner too, and Indian summer like temperatures continue well into October and November. Keep in mind that many hotels close for the winter at the end of October, so you’re best off visiting towards the beginning of autumn rather than the end.

Although Turkey is often thought of as a summer getaway, it’s also the perfect destination for a magical winter. In Istanbul, sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace are wonderfully deserted and there’s even opportunities to go skiing just a couple of hours outside of the city. In Cappadocia, although you may miss out on riding in a hot air balloon due to the weather conditions, you’ll still be mesmerised by the entire valley of fairy chimneys covered in a beautiful dusting of white snow. Whilst beach resorts are mostly closed during the winter season, the wintry months from December to March are the ideal time to explore Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Istanbul is a city like no other - just over 15 million people live here, and this melting pot is filled with tons of fascinating culture and heritage. From the 16th century Süleymaniye Mosque to the once Greek Orthodox Hagia Sophia, there’s so much to discover here. This buzzing metropolis can easily be a year-round destination, but if you really want to avoid the crowds, then the best time to go is in the depths of winter. From December to February, main sites like the Grand Bazaar are blissfully empty and temperatures, although chilly, are far from unbearable. If you’d prefer slightly warmer temperatures, visit in the shoulder seasons of March to May and October to November, when temperatures tend to climb into the 20s and the crowds are beginning to disperse.

A region of Turkey that is around 8,000 years old, Cappadocia is one of the most fascinating parts of the country. A large part of the area’s allure is the infamous hot air balloon rides, with as many as 150 balloons taking flight each day. These incredible rides are subject to weather conditions though, so they’re never guaranteed. If you’re keen not to miss the opportunity to float above the fairy chimneys, it’s worth planning on staying a few days in Cappadocia. For the best chances of taking to the skies, visit between April and October when winds are low and temperatures pleasant.