Weather in Turkey

The weather in Turkey is famously varied, which is no surprise for such a vast country. Many picture the classic Mediterranean climate, and that’s exactly what you’ll find along the south and west coasts: think hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This is prime beach-going weather, though summer ‘Meltemi’ winds can cool things down on the Aegean.

The Black Sea coast on the north is a different beast entirely. It’s a temperate, green region with the highest rainfall. This climate keeps summers cooler and winters modest. Turkey’s interior, the Anatolian plateau, has a continental climate. Here, you’ll face a stark contrast: scorching, dry summers and properly cold, snowy winters.

Because of this, packing ‘layers’ is the golden rule for any trip. The shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) are widely considered the best time to arrive. They offer a pleasant balance before the extremes of summer heat or winter cold set in.

The capital offers a clear taste of the weather in Ankara and its continental climate. You can expect warm, dry summers with a daily mean temperature around 73°F (23°C). Many residents find this ‘dry heat’ far more comfortable than the humidity of the coast. Winters are the polar opposite: cold and snowy, but the city is generally well equipped to clear major routes, so the daily commute remains manageable if you’re prepared. The rainy season is in spring, with May being the wettest month and often a peak time for pollen allergies.

The majority of expats choose to settle in Istanbul, which has a unique and often windy climate. The weather in Istanbul is notorious for its wind; you’ll get to know the ‘Lodos’, a strong southerly wind that can disrupt ferry services – a key part of the city’s commute – and is even blamed by locals for causing headaches.

Summer (June–September) is hot and humid, with average highs that reach 82°F (28°C). The humidity from the Bosphorus makes it feel much warmer. Winters in Istanbul, from December to March, are cold and very damp. Snow isn’t a yearly guarantee, but it does happen. Temperatures may dip to freezing, but rarely stay there for long.

Weather in Ankara
Weather in Istanbul