When is the best time to go to Istanbul?

Istanbul has a lot to offer its visitors throughout the year. If one desires to discover this superb megalopolis under a clear sky without being inconvenienced by the crowd of summer visitors, spring and autumn are to be favored. This city can indeed count on magnificent climatic conditions starting from the end of winter, but the weather is particularly superb from May to November. Thus, from mid-March to early June, tourists are few and one can engage in more convivial visits. If the stay coincides with the end of March or early April, it is possible to have the privilege of admiring the blooming tulips. This is the moment that authorities have chosen to celebrate the International Tulip Festival, held in Istanbul every year. The summer season translates into a strong tourist influx and it will therefore be necessary to think of booking in advance, because with the vacationers who flock in - the rates climb rather quickly. Travelling to Istanbul in the winter can allow for an unforgettable stay, especially for those with a romantic soul.

So, when is the best time to go to Istanbul? Here's some more information to help you in your decision:

  • The best months for good weather in Istanbul are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November
  • On average, the warmest months are June, July and August
  • January is the coldest month of the year
  • The rainiest months are January, February, March, October and December
  • The best months for swimming are June, July, August and September



Annual weather in Istanbul

Infographic of the best times to visit Istanbul
Infographic of the best times to visit Istanbul ©whereandwhen.net

Weather details in Istanbul month by month

To get all the information about the climate and weather in Istanbul for a specific month, click on the corresponding link below:

January February March April May June July August September October November December



Weather and climate in Istanbul

The capital of Turkey, Istanbul sees its climate influenced by both the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. The latter brings a few influences of an oceanic climate. Thus, the Turkish city observes an alternation between four well-marked seasons, with a relatively constant freshness throughout the year.

Istanbul in the Summer

In the summer, the climate of Istanbul is dry and rather warm. The presence of the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea nevertheless allows to temper this heat, with a marine air that makes the climate more bearable. Both seas also provide high ambient humidity. However, precipitation is not frequent at this time of year.

Istanbul in the Winter

In Istanbul, winter is cold and snowfall is not uncommon. Although precipitation remains scarce throughout this season, it is more intense. Very extensive, the city of Istanbul thus has more rainy or arid areas. This humidity makes the Istanbul climate quite different from its African neighbors, such as Tunisia or Libya. Fog is also common in the morning most of the year, but especially so in winter. Sudden storms and very violent showers are not uncommon.

Istanbul in the Spring

As in the summer, rain is rare during the springtime in Istanbul. The temperatures are mild and rise gradually in order to reach summer temperature levels. Sunny, this season is particularly pleasant for the discovery of the charms of Istanbul and the rest of Turkey.

Istanbul in the Autumn

Wetter, the autumn in Istanbul resembles the climate of neighboring Bulgaria. If the sun is very present, there are however more rainy episodes than in the summer. The mornings begin to be a bit cool, as are the nights.

Istanbul : Istanbul



Charts: temperature and rainfall in Istanbul

In the charts below, you can see the following seasonal norms for the city of Istanbul: the minimum and maximum outdoor temperature, the risk and amount of monthly rainfall, daily average sunshine, sea temperature, and relative humidity for each month of the year.

Outside temperature

Precipitation (rainfall)

Daily sunshine hours

Sea temperature

Humidity


Peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Istanbul

Find out when Istanbul has its high tourist season (the period when the influx of tourists is highest) and off-peak tourist season using our data and figures.

Tourist seasons in Istanbul

  • Very low season in Istanbul
    The months with the lowest number of tourists are: January and February.
  • Low season in Istanbul
    The months with low numbers of tourists are: March, November and December.
  • High season in Istanbul
    The number of visitors to Istanbul is high in: April, June and October.
  • Peak season in Istanbul
    The largest number of tourists visiting Istanbul is during: May, July, August and September.

Figure: Visitor index for Istanbul month by month



Best time for low prices in Istanbul

Average prices of hotels in Istanbul month by month

Generally, December is the month with the lowest hotel prices in Istanbul. So this is a great time to save on your holiday! In contrast, July is statistically the most expensive month of the year for hotels.

Find the best price for your hotel room

Average price for flights to Istanbul

A return flight between London and Istanbul is generally cheaper if you go in march ($ 122 on average): this is the best time for travellers on a tight budget. In contrast, you may end up paying $ 174 more for your airline ticket to Istanbul if you go in august.

Find the best price for your flight Flight prices to Istanbul

Average price of hiring a car in Istanbul

On average, it costs $ 65 per day to hire a car in Istanbul. This price varies by $ 30 depending on the month. In november, hiring a car costs an average of $ 54 per 24 hours, so this is the best time to save money! In contrast, the average price in july is $ 83.

Find the best price for your car rental


Other cities and places near Istanbul

Chargement en cours
Legend: Istanbul other locations

Change units