Turkey is a huge country with 81 cities, and the turkey temperature changes depending on where you go. This often confuses people wondering about Turkey’s weather. If you’re one of them, you’re in the right place! This guide will tell you about the weather in Turkey.
Let’s start with the average temperature in Turkey.
Average Turkey Temperatures
Turkey has quite a remarkable variation in weather depending on the country’s geographical region.
The temperature range in sea level is usually between 12-15 degrees Celcius. This may sound unkind, but that is average for the 12 months of the year.
Summer, especially in coastal regions, is generally hot in turkey. Tourist resorts such as Antalya and Dodrum get hot in summer with about 20- 25 Degree Celsius which is suitable for swimming. This is due to the fact that inland areas can sometimes get much hotter.
Everyone knows that winters are different in different regions. The coastal region is temperate, while the interior can be very harsh and can record a low of 2 to 6 degrees Celsius.
Weather in Turkey By Cities
Weather in Key Turkish Cities
Let’s explore the weather in some of Turkey’s most popular destinations:
Weather in Istanbul
Istanbul, Turkey’s biggest city, sits between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. This means it has a pretty mild climate, not too hot or too cold.
Summers in Istanbul are sunny and warm, with average temperatures around 23°C in August.
Winters are cloudy and chilly, with temperatures dropping to about 5°C in February. It can even snow sometimes because of cold winds from Siberia meeting the warm Black Sea.
Istanbul’s Weather by Month
March to May:
- Average High: 12°C
- Average Low: 9°C
June to August:
- Average High: 24°C
- Average Low: 20°C
September to November:
- Average High: 17°C
- Average Low: 14°C
December to February:
- Average High: 6°C
- Average Low: 4°C
Weather in Antalya
Antalya is on Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast and has a lovely Mediterranean climate.
Summers in Antalya are hot and sunny, perfect for the beach! Average temperatures are around 32°C, and the sea is a warm 28°C. Lots of people visit Antalya in summer to escape the heat inland.
Even in winter, Antalya is still pretty mild. It might rain a bit, but it’s not usually cold, and you can still go to the beach sometimes!
Antalya’s Weather by Month
March to May:
- Average High: 21°C
- Average Low: 15°C
June to August:
- Average High: 32°C
- Average Low: 25°C
September to November:
- Average High: 25°C
- Average Low: 18°C
December to February:
- Average High: 15°C
- Average Low: 9°C
Weather in Cappadocia
Cappadocia is in the middle of Turkey and has a continental climate. This means it gets really hot in summer and very cold in winter.
Summers are dry and hot, perfect for hot air balloon rides. Winters are cold with snow, and the famous fairy chimneys look beautiful covered in snow.
Cappadocia’s Weather by Month
March to May
- Average High: 11°C
- Average Low: 3°C
June to August
- Average High: 22°C
- Average Low: 12°C
September to November
- Average High: 14°C
- Average Low: 6°C
December to February
- Average High: 4°C
- Average Low: -2°C
Best Time to Visit Based on Turkey Temperature
The best time to visit Turkey depends on where you’re going and what kind of weather you prefer.
However, below, you will find a brief description of each season: the type of weather you can expect and the periods that should be considered the best for a visit depending on what you are going to do.
Winter in Turkey (January – March)
Winter paints Turkey in cool hues. Temperatures are low, especially inland in places like Cappadocia, where snow is common. If you enjoy peaceful surroundings and don’t mind the chill, this is a great time to explore. Popular tourist spots will be less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Nevertheless, some outdoor activities could be so confined by the weather conditions and could be totally unavailable. The mean temperature in January varies from -2°C (28°F) in the east to 10°C (50°F) in the south.
Springtime in Turkey (April – May)
Turkish spring can be described in one word – wonderful. Universally, the country turns into a floral arrangement as flowers are in full bloom. It’s warm but not hot, great for touring archeological sites or just walking around enjoying the rather pleasant climate.
April is particularly appealing because of the tulips planted at the location. Now the parks of Istanbul give an impression of being the bright and light-green carpets. It is actually a high season for Turkey and many tourists, however, there are spots where it is quite to have a rest. But do expect a few showers, all the same. During the course of the month, the climate becomes warmer. May climatically is however comfortable with temperatures ranging to about 20 ‘C.
There are so many festivals celebrated during this season but one of them that is very interesting is Hidrellez Festival. The anniversary of this holiday is on the 5th & 6th of May, and it’s a spring holiday with elements of musical and dancing.
Autumn in Turkey (September – November)
Autumn brings pleasant weather to Turkey. The heat subsides, making it a comfortable time to explore historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities. The Turquoise Coast remains warm for swimming, and prices for accommodations drop compared to peak season.
November brings cooler temperatures, especially inland. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in September to 10°C (50°F) in November.
Autumn is also a time for fun festivals! The International Wine Festival happens in late October, where you can taste delicious Turkish wines.
And don’t forget Republic Day on October 29th, a nationwide celebration filled with fireworks and exciting events.
Winter Returns (December)
December kicks off winter in Turkey. While the coast stays pretty warm, the middle of the country gets chilly and snowy. Istanbul sparkles with Christmas lights and feels peaceful. It’s a great time to visit if you like quiet places. The temperature swings from a cold 5°C in the north to a mild 15°C in the south.
In December, Konya hosts the Mevlana and Whirling Dervish Festival. You can watch the amazing dance of the whirling dervishes there.
Last Words
Seasonal variations in Turkey are quite strong and they differ greatly from one region to another. This means that irrespective of what activity, there is always a right time for undertaking the activity in the region.
Love sunny beaches? Tourists should go to Antalya in summer periods. Interested in exploring history? Istanbul is good for any season. Want a winter wonderland? Cappadocia is somehow magical, at least when it’s cloaked in snow.
This way, knowing the turkey temperature and weather conditions you can plan your ideal trip depending on your choice.
So, what do you still need? Turkey is waiting for you!
