best time to visit Turkey
per your preferences and what you want to do.Best Time to Travel to Turkey As Per Weather
Summer Season
Months: June, July and August
Summer is one of the best times to visit Turkey. It brings every shade of joy with the taste of turquoise waters and clear skies. June to August offers pleasant and warm days with enough sunshine. The average temperature ranges between 27°C to 37°C. The country is bustling with festivals, events, and fairs during this season. We would advise to check the temperatures of central and southern Turkey, as they are hotter than other regions. No wonder it is the peak season when millions of tourists flock to plunge into the pools, savor the cold beverages, and return home with sun-kissed skin. Pack lightweight clothing, good sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Also, be prepared for a lively crowd and higher prices.
Autumn
Months: September and October
Dropping temperatures in early September is the harbinger of autumn. The weather is more favorable, crowds are thinner, and rainfall occurs frequently. During this season, you can experience fluctuating temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, so tourists should pack layers, such as sweaters and jackets. A rain jacket or umbrella is a practical solution.
Winter
Months: November, December and January
Winter is officially the lowest season in Turkey. The country witnesses fewer crowds, consequently bringing down hotel and flight prices. The weather is cold and wet, with average temperatures around 5°C, especially in the mountainous regions that face strong wind. It is ideal for visitors traveling on a shoestring budget, as the attractions and sites are open throughout the year. This is also an excellent time for skiing. However, some coastal areas may be inaccessible due to snow.
Spring
Months: March, April and May
Similar to autumn, spring is another excellent time to travel to Turkey. The season is mild and beautiful as the winter descends and the country bursts into life. Turkey’s blossoming flowers, delightful aroma, and lush spring landscapes bring refreshing energy for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The average temperature ranges between 10°C and 25°C. There is smooth sunshine with occasional spurts of rain.
Cheapest Time to Visit Turkey
The winter months, from November to March, are the cheapest time to visit Turkey. With fewer crowds and several discounts on accommodations and activities, it is the perfect time for budget-conscious travelers. You can expect to save 20-30% on popular activities like hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia or boat tours in the Aegean Sea. The rates of premium tours in major cities, such as Istanbul tour packages, also drops. Hotels and other types of accommodation are often 50% or more cheaper during the low season. Other than this, you can also find great deals in the shoulder season. Istanbul is gray and cold, but skiing in Uludağ is in full swing.
Best Time to Visit Turkey According to Festivals
The most important festivals in Turkey are Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which are also big holidays. So, expect a huge buzz on the streets filled with lighting and markets. The dates of these festivals vary as per the lunar calendar. Istanbul, Bursa, and Antalya have a calendar of cultural events and art festivals that will sink into your soul. In the months of June to August, the country organizes numerous occasions in the amphitheater and outdoors year-round. There is so much to do and see, be it the Newroz, a festival that marks the onset of spring, or the Tekirdağ Cherry Festival in summer. April is filled with tulips, and there are vibrant festivals, such as Istanbul Tulip Festival, Anzac Day, Istanbul Film Festival, and Alaçatı Herb Festival.
Best Time To Visit Turkey for Sightseeing
Spring and autumn are the ideal times for sightseeing and outdoor activities. A blend of warm temperatures and cold breezes allows the travelers to explore the significant landmarks, including the popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, Cappadocia and Ankara and Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace Museum, Suleymaniye Mosque, and Mount Nemrut, without sweating it out. You can walk around and gaze at the magnificent architecture without waiting in the long queues. Also, it’s one of the most affordable times to check out the attractions. For a more action-packed trip, tourists can go for hiking.
Best Time to Visit Turkey for Beach Trips and Water Adventures
Summer season is when both tourists and locals flock to the shoreline. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are comfortably warm. They offer immaculate beaches and azure waters, creating a perfect atmosphere for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. To avoid the heat, visit the cooler, verdant highlands of the Black Sea Mountains. So, if you’re a beachgoer and sports enthusiast, summer is perfect for you.
Best Time to Visit Turkey for Hot Air Balloon Rides
There is no doubt that Turkey offers one of the most exciting hot air balloon rides in the world. The best time to experience hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia, Turkey, is during the relatively mild and stable weather conditions from April to October. However, the peak season for hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is typically from April to early June (Spring) and from September to October (Autumn). During these months, the weather is generally favorable for hot air balloon flights, offering clear skies and calm winds. Crowds are also small.
Turkey Travel and Visa Requirements
To book a trip to Turkey, understand the visa requirements. Depending on your citizenship, you must determine whether you need a Turkey tourist visa. If yes, submit the supporting documents with a duly filled application form to the Embassy. You can also obtain the e-visa from an official website or a visa agent. They can help you understand the nits and grits of visa processing. Turkey is also one of the countries to visit near Dubai, so anyone traveling from the UAE can easily apply for the visa.
Conclusion
Turkey is brimming with culture, history, and nature. It is upto you to consider your preferred activities, whether they are cultural exploration, outdoor adventures, or beach relaxation, to determine the best time to visit Turkey. Also, check the weather conditions before visiting.
