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Istanbul

Straddling two continents across the Bosphorus River, the fascinating city of Istanbul is a culture clash of East and West. With elegant mosques, historic churches and exquisite palaces, Istanbul is a city which provides sensory overload in a multi-cultural setting. Bargain hunters will enjoy haggling for goods at the Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Spice Bazaar, whilst soaking in the atmosphere of this unique city in its labyrinth of narrow streets. A boat-trip on the Bosphorus is also a fascinating way to explore the city’s architecture and see two continents at the same time. In addition to its historic roots, Istanbul also offers a vibrant art scene and a host of restaurants and nightclubs which showcase its cosmopolitan nature where the traditional and the modern sit side by side.

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What you’ll love most about Istanbul

  • Marvel at the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history. Explore its stunning dome, intricate mosaics, and learn about its transformation from a Byzantine cathedral to an Ottoman mosque and now a museum
  • Step into the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace. Wander through its lavish courtyards, visit the imperial harem, and admire the priceless treasures housed in its museum, including the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond
  • Admire the elegant beauty of the Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and stunning blue tiles adorning its interior. Experience the peaceful atmosphere of this iconic landmark and marvel at its intricate architecture
  • Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Explore its thousands of shops selling everything from carpets and ceramics to spices and jewellery, and practice your bargaining skills with friendly vendors
  • Take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, the scenic waterway that divides Istanbul between Europe and Asia. Enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline, historic landmarks, and majestic palaces lining the shores
  • Ascend the Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus. Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and capture unforgettable memories of your visit to this magical city

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 8℃
  • 8℃
  • 11℃
  • 17℃
  • 22℃
  • 26℃
  • 30℃
  • 28℃
  • 25℃
  • 20℃
  • 15℃
  • 10℃
  • 14
  • 12
  • 13
  • 11
  • 9
  • 6
  • 3
  • 4
  • 8
  • 10
  • 13
  • 17

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January sees Istanbul wrapped in a winter hush. Snowfall is not uncommon, especially in the hilly districts, and the city takes on a cinematic quality. Mornings call for steamy glasses of Turkish tea, and museums like Topkapı Palace or the Istanbul Archaeological Museum offer welcome shelter from the cold.

February

February remains brisk and often grey, but it's a quieter time to explore landmarks like the Hagia Sophia or the Grand Bazaar without crowds. Rainy days are perfect for ducking into Ottoman-era hammams or sipping salep, a warm, spiced milk drink beloved in the colder months.

March

By March, spring edges in. Trees begin to bud in Gülhane Park, and there’s a palpable shift in the air. While showers are still frequent, sunny spells bring locals to the waterfront promenades of Ortaköy or Kadıköy for tea and simit.

April

April bursts into bloom with the annual Istanbul Tulip Festival, carpeting parks and boulevards in vibrant colour. Temperatures typically rise to the high teens°C, making it one of the most photogenic and pleasant months to visit.

May

May is a highlight, with warm but not sweltering weather and long daylight hours. Ferries crisscross the Bosphorus under golden skies, and open-air cafés spill onto the streets in Beyoğlu and Nişantaşı. It’s also ideal for day trips to the Princes’ Islands.

June

June welcomes early summer. Highs can reach 26-28°C, and outdoor life thrives - from sunset drinks on rooftop terraces to concerts in historic venues. The evenings are breezy, perfect for strolls along Galata Bridge or dinner cruises on the water.

July

July brings heat and humidity, with daytime temperatures often peaking above 30°C. Locals escape to the coast or nearby forests, but in the city, the vibe shifts to a languid pace. Airy mosques like the Süleymaniye offer cool interiors, and late-night gatherings at seaside spots become the norm.

August

August mirrors July in intensity. It’s a good time to retreat to shaded gardens like Emirgan Park or to spend your days museum-hopping. Early mornings and dusky evenings are best for exploring outdoor attractions like Yıldız Park or the spice-scented lanes of Eminönü.

September

September brings a welcome dip in heat. Days are warm, often hovering around 25°C, while the humidity fades. It’s an excellent month for boat tours, al fresco dining, or wandering the hilly backstreets of Balat and Fener, where the colours of the old houses match the golden autumn light.

October

In October, the pace slows and the weather cools further, particularly in the evenings. Markets brim with seasonal produce, and city parks like Maçka Demokrasi Park turn amber and gold. Cultural events and art fairs mark the calendar.

November

November leans toward misty mornings and early sunsets. While temperatures average around 15°C, it can feel chillier with the breeze off the Bosphorus. It’s a reflective, soulful time to visit - ideal for literary cafés, antique stores, and taking in the quieter side of the city.

December

December wraps the year in a festive air. Although snow is rare, a crisp chill sets in, and lights twinkle along Istiklal Avenue. Warm Turkish sweets, bustling Christmas markets, and ferry rides under moody skies make it a surprisingly magical time to explore.

Our Ratings

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