Did you know that Turkey is one country that belongs both in Asia and Europe. While 95% of the country is in Asia, 5% of Turkey, especially the capital of Istanbul, is in Europe. The mighty Bosphorus Strait that runs through the city is the border. Turkey has been a favorite among travelers for several years for various reasons. Its rich history made of Romans, Ottomans, Byzantines, and even Greeks is one of the reasons. Apart from this, the culture, the coastal towns, the beautiful beaches, the breathtaking landscapes, and the delicious food also make it worthwhile. It is also one of the best countries to visit near Dubai, as Istanbul is just a few hours of flight from the UAE emirate. August is peak tourist season in August. But if you are planning a trip to this Eurasian country in this month of the year, it is necessary to know everything about visiting Turkey in August.
Is August a Good Time to Visit Turkey?
August is considered the best time to visit in Turkey. The climate is warm and perfect for exploring the coastal towns and beaches of the country. However, these places can be crowded in August. Still, there is plenty to explore in Turkey in August. Apart from Istanbul sightseeing, you can also explore the inland cities, which are usually less crowded during this month. Moreover, Turkey celebrates several interesting festivals and events in August, making it the perfect month to visit the country.
Weather in Turkey in August
August is extremely hot in Turkey, as it is mid-summer in the country. The temperature is slightly less than in July. Still, you will get to experience the harsh sun during this month. The temperature is lesser in Istanbul and Cappadocia in August, while the coastal cities and towns have higher temperatures, even going beyond 30-degree C during the day. However, humidity is less, so you do not have to worry about sweating buckets in the hot climate during the day.
- Temperature: Low: 25-degree C; High: 35-degree C
- Humidity: 62%
- Chance of Rain: 6%
- Daylight: 10-12 hours
- Sunrise: Around 6.15 AM
- Sunset: Around 7.57 PM
Things to do in Turkey in August
Most people visit Turkey to admire its famous tulip fields. But you can see the tulips only if you visit Turkey in April. Here are some of the interesting things you can do when visiting Turkey in August.
Go Yacht Cruising in Istanbul
One of the fun things to do in Istanbul is going on a yacht cruise on Bosphorous Strait. Enjoy the comforts of a luxury yacht as you sail on the Bosphorous. You can choose either a sunrise or sunset tour. During the tour, you will get to see both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul. You will be accompanied by a tour guide who will tell you about the different landmarks you see during the tour. The yacht cruise usually includes snacks, fruits, and Turkish tea.
Enjoy Water Sports
If you are planning to visit the beaches in Turkey this August, you must indulge in some of the water sports the country offers. This is also one of the best things to do in Turkey to stay cool in the August heat. Turkey is a great place to enjoy scuba diving. Apart from this, kayaking, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and canoeing are some other water sports you can try in the country. Turkey also offers you the chance to experience white water river rafting and parasailing. You can also visit a water park to enjoy the water slides, rides, and pools.
Go for a Turkish Bath
If you are looking for unique experiences, a Turkish Bath is something you must not miss. The Turkish Bath or Hammam is a traditional public bath house that was popularized by the Ottomans. Most of these baths are in and around Istanbul, some of which were built in the 13th and 14th centuries. While there are several modern Hammas, go for an old one for the authentic traditional experience. The Hammam experience includes sitting in a hot room, followed by a steam room, after which you are scrubbed clean with a rough glove. This is followed by a foam bath with hot or cold water. Visiting a Hammam may seem intimidating but is extremely rejuvenating, and hence must be tried.
Indulge in Turkish Delicacies
One of the experiences you must not miss in Turkey is the Turkish cuisine. This delicious cuisine has influences from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The best part is that the taste and flavors vary in the different regions of the country. The best way to enjoy the Turkish cuisine is go on a food tour, which is available in most tourist cities of Turkey. Some of the Turkish dishes that you must taste are Baklava, Pilav, Doner Kebab, Kofte, Mememen, Dolma, Lokum, Oide, Manti, Borek, and more.
Explore the National Parks
Most people make a beeline to the beaches while visiting Turkey in August. But if you want to avoid the crowds, a visit to the national parks of the country would be a better idea. Beautiful and tranquil, the national parks of Turkey give you the chance to see stunning landscapes and enjoy unique attractions and activities. National parks are a great way of indulging in outdoor activities like biking, hiking, camping, birdwatching, mountain climbing, etc. Along with the natural landscapes, the national parks here are also home to ancient ruins, archeological sites, and more. There are more than 40 national parks in Turkey, but the most important ones are Aladaglar National Park, Lake Beysehir National Park, Nemrut Dagi National Park, Goreme National Park, Koprulu Canyon National Park, and more.
Places to Visit in Turkey in August
Turkey is home to 81 cities, each unique in its own rights. Filled with history, culture, and traditions, each city offers something interesting to the visitors. Here are a few places to visit in Turkey.
1. Istanbul
If you have the time only to visit one city in Turkey, it must be Istanbul, the capital of the country. Istanbul has a lively and friendly vibe. While it is a modern city, it has a rich history, and its past goes back to the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. The history and culture of the city can be seen in its mosques and historical landmarks. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum are two of the famous landmarks in Europe you must visit. The Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet Square, etc., are some of the best places to visit in Istanbul with family.
2. Cappadocia
A far cry from the bustling city of Istanbul is Cappadocia, a city known for its raw and breathtaking landscapes. Located in the heart of the country, Cappadocia is at least a thousand years old, and the underground cities and cave dwellings are proof of the same. Then there are the landscapes of the city with its unique rock formations that give it an otherworldly charm. The best way of enjoying the stunning sights of Cappadocia is going on a hot air balloon ride. August is a great time to visit this city, as Cappadocia is less crowded during this month.
3. Bodrum
Bodrum is a coastal city located on the Aegan Sea and is one of the favorite Turkey holiday destinations for both locals and tourists in August. What makes the city interesting is that it is the perfect combination of history, natural beauty, and modernity. Bodrum has numerous historical sights, the most important being Bodrum Castle, dating back to the 15th century. When you are not exploring the historical attractions, visit the beautiful beaches of the city, including Bitez Beach, Torba Beach, Gumusluk Beach, and Yalikavak Beach. Another thing to look forward to here is its most happening nightlife, complete with bars, open-air clubs, and more.
4. Antalya
Antalaya is another beach city of Turkey; this one located on its Mediterranean Coast. A visit to Antalya will give you the chance to enjoy beautiful golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters, some of the best the country has to offer. The region is home to several Blue Flag beaches. Few of the must-visit ones are Kaputas Beach, Lara Beach, and Konyaalti Beach. Other than the beaches, Antalya is also known for its gorgeous natural landscapes. The lush green forests, the flowing waterfalls, and the dramatic mountain ranges make for great Turkey sightseeing. Antalya is also known for its nightlife and food scenes.
5. Konya
If you want to see a Turkey that is more than its beaches, parties, and vibrant cities, Konya is one of the best Turkey vacation spots. The history of Konya dates to 3000 years, and the city has been home to several ancient civilizations. But Konya is most popular as the resting place of Rumi, the revered Sufi Saint and poet. If you want to know more about Rumi, you need to visit the Mevalana Museum, which is also the most famous spot in the city. Another unique thing to do here is watch the whirling Dervish ceremony. Some other attractions to see here are Selimiye Mosque, Aziziye Mosque, Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden, Cathalhuyuk Archaeological Center, etc.
Events & Festivals in Turkey in August
Festivals in Turkey in August
If you are visiting Turkey in August, here is the festival you will get to be a part of. Turkish Victory Day: Turkish Victory Day is celebrated on August 30 every year. Also known as the Turkish Armed Forces, it commemorates Turkey’s win over Greece during the Greco-Turkish War. The battle was won on August 30’ 1922. While the entire country celebrates on this day, main celebrations happen in Anitkabir (Ankara) with national parades and speeches by the President.
- Date: August 30
- Venue: All over Turkey
Events in Turkey in August
Here are the interesting events you can be a part of when you are in Turkey in August.International TROYA Folk Dance and Music Festival
This is a unique festival where folk and choral groups, majorette teams, and orchestras from different countries come together to showcase their culture and traditions through their local music, dance, and national costumes.
- Date: August 16-20
- Venue: Canakkale, Turkey
Infinitum Music Festival
Music lovers should head to Istanbul’s Life Park to be a part of the music festival that celebrates electronic music. This is one of the unique things to do in Istanbul. You will get to listen to musicians and artists from different genres of electronic music here.
- Date: August 16-18
- Venue: Life Park, Istanbul
Travel Tips to Visit Turkey in August
While exploring the beautiful places in Istanbul and other parts of Turkey, there are some important things to remember. Here are some crucial tips for visiting Turkey in August.
- While there is no dress code to be followed in Turkey, it is important not to wear dresses that are too short or revealing while visiting the holy places of the country.
- Always hire cabs (turquoise and yellow) with logos to prevent the chances of getting scammed by cab drivers. Uber is also available in major cities. BiTaksi is the local app for booking cabs in Turkey.
- Although tap water is safe for drinking in Turkey, the water may not taste good in certain parts of the country. Hence, it is best to stick to bottled water.
- If you are shopping in Turkey, do not forget to bargain to get the best deals.
- Learn a few important phrases of Turkey especially if you are planning to explore the remote areas of the country. August is peak tourist season in Turkey. Hence, it is best to book your accommodation as well as popular attractions in advance.
Things to Know Before Visiting Turkey in August
What to pack for Turkey in August?
To stay cool in the warm weather of August, carry cotton and linen clothes. Next comes footwear. Sturdy walking shoes are a necessity when you are sightseeing in the country. Flipflops are also needed for beach visits. Swimwear, including bikini, can be worn at the beaches and pool areas. Do not forget to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a scarf, and hat for protection against the August sun in Turkey. Portable charger, adapter, emergency medicines, mosquito repellent, etc., are also the important things to pack for Turkey.
What to wear in Turkey in August?
Turkey does not have a strict dress code for locals or tourists. You can wear all kinds of outfits in most cities of Turkey. Shirts, dresses, shorts, jeans, tops, pants, etc., are acceptable everywhere. You can wear swimwear of your choice at the beaches and swimming pool areas of your hotel. If you are visiting a mosque or any other religious place, it is important to wear clothes that cover your body appropriately. Revealing outfits like shorts, miniskirts, short dresses, and tops that expose your arms or cleavage should be avoided.
How to get around in Turkey in August?
There are multiple ways to travel in Turkey. Flights are the easiest way of traveling from one city to another. Buses and trains are more cost-saving ways of traveling to different cities in the country. For local travel, there are buses, metros, and light rail services in most Turkish cities, including Istanbul, Bursa, Konya, Antalya, Ankara, etc. Cab rentals and taxi services are also available in most cities of the country.
Where to stay in Turkey in August?
Turkey has plenty of options when it comes to accommodation for tourists. The most obvious choice for tourists is hotels. Most cities of Turkey are home to two, three, four, and five-star hotels. You can choose one as per your budget and requirements. There are also unrated hotels, which are licensed by municipalities. These come with the basic amenities but may or may not have an ensuite bathroom. But these are perfect for those on a budget. Boutique hotels, pansiyons (small guesthouses), and self-catering apartments as well. It is best to opt for an accommodation that has an air conditioner when you are visiting Turkey in August.
FAQs about Turkey in August
1. Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?Yes, a Turkey visa is needed for foreigners wanting to visit the country. Citizens of certain countries are eligible for a visa on arrival, while nationals of most countries can apply for an online visa for short term visits. You can apply for a Turkey visa from countries where you are seeking temporary residence. For instance, you can apply for a Turkey visa from Dubai if you are a resident of the UAE.
2. What is the currency of Turkey?Turk Lirasi is the official currency of Turkey. Cash is most acceptable in the country. There are several ATMs in the country from where you can withdraw cash. Most big cities of Turkey accept money in US dollars and Euro. But this is not the case in small towns and villages.
3. Is Turkey a good place for couples?Yes, Turkey is an amazing place for couples and honeymooners. There are plenty of best places to go in Turkey for couples. The cities near the Turkish coast are perfect for a romantic holiday in Turkey.
4. Do I need to take any vaccinations before visiting Turkey?Yes, you may require taking certain vaccinations before traveling to Turkey. These include vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, influenza, rabies, hepatitis B, shingles, meningitis, pneumonia, Covid-19, and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella).
5. Is Turkey a safe place for travel?Turkey is generally a safe country to visit. You may have heard of terrorist attacks, but they are largely near the borders of Syria and Iraq. Most larger cities like Istanbul, Cappadocia, etc., are safe. Pickpocketing and petty thefts are common in bigger cities. Hence, it is important to be aware of your surroundings.
ConclusionAll in all, it can be said that August is an amazing time to visit Turkey. Plan your Turkey itinerary and take all the precautions to keep yourself safe from the heat. We assure you that you will have the most amazing holiday in Turkey this August.
