When is the best time to visit Turkey?

Visiting Turkey in April - May

The temperatures in these spring months are moderate, making this an ideal time to visit the many ancient ruined sites dotted around the country. April is also peak tulip season, and the parks and gardens of Istanbul are bursting with colour; although it can be rainy during April too. As this is such an ideal time to visit Turkey it is also the most expensive for hotels in places such as Istanbul and Cappadocia. However, many of the hotels along the Turquoise Coast are still closed.

Events & Festivals

• Hidrellez Festival (5th to 6th May): Celebrating the start of spring, this festival includes street performances by traditional gypsy bands.
• The International Istanbul Film Festival: With the aim of promoting excellent cinematic theatre in Turkey this event takes place every year in Istanbul.

Visiting Turkey in June - August

The summer months, from mid-June through to mid-September are very hot, perfect for relaxing on the beautiful Turquoise Coast and swimming in the Mediterranean. However, these high temperatures make exploring Turkey's ancient heritage quite uncomfortable, as there tends to be little or no shade at the plethora of ancient sites. This is also peak season for cruise ships, making coastal resorts and the more popular ancient sites such as Ephesus very busy. Cappadocia, by contrast, tends to be quieter over the summer months, and beautifully carpeted with wild flowers throughout, making this a great time for hiking.

Events & Festivals

• Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival (June and July): Set within the spectacular Aspendos Roman theatre, the festival hosts numerous performances by international ballet and opera companies.

Visiting Turkey in September - October

Early September is still hot, but from the middle of the month onward temperatures begin to cool, although sea and land temperatures are still warm, creating similar conditions to the spring months but with shorter days. Again, this is an excellent time to explore the cities and ancient sites, as well as to visit the Turquoise Coast as prices are lower and crowds are fewer. Prices tend to be high for the boutique hotels in Istanbul and Cappadocia, although hotels along the Mediterranean typically close by mid-October.

Events & Festivals

• International Wine Festival (end of October): Annually held with wine tasting events from local vineyards in Cappadocia.
• Republic Day (29th October): Celebrated across the country, but most vibrantly in Istanbul, with various art events and firework displays.

Visiting Turkey in November - December

In November and December it's quite chilly throughout most of the country, with the exception of the southeast (around Antalya) which remains fairly warm. Temperatures in Konya and Cappadocia can be quite cold and snow is not uncommon, creating fantastic panoramas. Istanbul is much quieter than at other times of the year, making this a great time to visit if you don't mind the cooler temperatures and occasional rain or snow.

Events & Festivals

• Mevlana and Whirling Dervish Festival: This annual ten-day event commemorates Rumi, with various events and ceremonies taking place in open-air locations around Konya.