travel to istanbul in september

Istanbul in September: Weather, Attractions, Tips for 2024

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Are you thinking of visiting Istanbul in September and wondering what it will be like? Istanbul is a vibrant city with so much to see and do, and with the new school year approaching and the summer holidays coming to a close, you might just be thinking of Istanbul as your perfect destination in September.

But the question remains, is September a good time to visit Istanbul? September is the end of the high season in Istanbul, so depending on when in the month you visit you could see some summer crowds still lingering.

The weather is pretty good this time of year, and there are still plenty of events and festivals to keep you entertained.

But was is Istanbul in September like? This complete guide will reveal everything you need to know!

Planning a trip to Istanbul last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:

Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken International Airport (SAW) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:

Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must-do In Istanbul)
Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique experience!)
Historical Turkish Bath Experience
Istanbul Food And Culture Tour

Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:

Magnuara Palace Hotel (Gorgeous hotel in the historic centre!)
Pera Palace Hotel
Cheers Hostel (Budget hostel near the Blue Mosque!)

Istanbul Weather in September

It’s the same all over the world, you wait for what feels like an entire year for those 2 or 3 months of glorious summer weather. Well, summer arrived, and in a flash, it’s almost already over.

Autumn is on the horizon in Istanbul meaning temperatures have been at their yearly peak, and things are slowly getting toned down.

With that being said, it’s still lovely and warm, with the average temperature sitting at 21°C (69.8°F) and the city experiencing daytime highs of up to 25°C (77°F). As usual, temperatures cool down quite dramatically overnight, hovering around 16°C (60.8°F).

A light jacket or something to throw on and cover up from the chill will probably be needed if you’re out and about after the sun goes down.

Rainfall averages increase quite dramatically for the month of September. With just 20mm falling from the heavens in August, September is a different story altogether. The average more than doubles to 50mm of rainfall during September, which is spread over 8 days. This is a stark contrast to last month when it rained on only 4 days.

As the weather gets a little more autumnal, the wind also increases to an average speed of about 14mph. You should keep this in mind when along open areas and promenades along the water’s edge. It’ll feel colder in these locations, so if you plan on spending the day by, or on, the water, bring a jacket just in case.

As the summer season draws to a close, the nights close in and the sun sets earlier and earlier as the month goes on. At the start of the month, there are a little over 13 hours of daylight, compared to the very end of the month when there are just 11 hours and 48 minutes.

Sunrises at 06.30 am, soon become sunrises at 7 pm and the sun drifts below the horizon at a fairly early time of 18.48 pm at the end of the month.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul in September

Summer season might be coming to a close but that doesn’t mean the weather instantly turns poor. On average, there are still only 8 days of rain out of 31, meaning for the rest of the time there will be blue skies and patches of cloud with warm temperatures.

Here’s our list of the top things to do in Istanbul in September.

1. Visit the Hagia Sophia

One of the best attractions in the entire city is the truly magnificent Hagia Sophia. Constructed as a Greek Orthodox Church over 1500 years ago, it is widely considered one of the world’s greatest architectural feats. It is the epitome of Byzantine architecture, with its domes and mosaics defining characteristics. The Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque in 1453 shortly after the Ottomans conquered the city.

2. Visit the Blue Mosque

One of the most beautiful mosques in the entire world is the Blue Mosque which stands proudly in Sultanahmet Square. Not quite as old as its neighbor, the Hagia Sophia, it was built during the 17 th century by the order of Ottoman Sultan Ahmet I.

It gets its name from the stunning, hand-painted blue Iznik tiles that plaster the mosque’s interior. This is truly a one-of-a-kind mosque and an absolute must-see when visiting the city of Istanbul.

3. Sit on the Top Deck of a Tourist Sightseeing Bus

Whilst this can be a very touristy activity, it’s an excellent way to see the many sights of Istanbul in a relatively short amount of time. You simply wouldn’t be able to see all the attractions of Istanbul within a day or two, but the sightseeing bus makes it possible.

If the September weather is being kind, sit on the top deck for unparalleled views of the city. The hop-on/hop-off element comes in really handy, so you can pick and choose what you’d like to explore more of.

4. Day Trip to the Princes’ Islands

It’s little to no wonder why these islands were a favorite of the Byzantine Princes. The stunning natural beauty of this group of islands, and the close proximity to Istanbul itself, make this a superb day trip from the city.

In just a short one-hour sailing, you can leave the hustle and bustle of one of Europe’s most populous cities in favor of a peaceful serenity on the forested Princes’ Islands.

5. Take A Trip to the Beach

If you happen to be visiting Istanbul in September, why not make the most of the last couple of weeks of spotless weather by visiting one of the stunning beaches that litter the coastline?

Şile is just over an hour’s drive from Istanbul’s city center and this picturesque area has a few sandy beaches that are blue flag protected, and even a lighthouse dating back to 1859.

6. Explore the City on a Bicycle

The weather in Istanbul during September is almost perfect for touring the city on the back of a bicycle. Walking around the city, you’ll notice many bicycle rental stands that many tourists use to get around this huge city.

Pedal the streets of Istanbul as you weave your way through notable places like Sultanahmet Square, Galata, and if you’re up for it, through the mazes of the Grand Bazaar. Flick the stand out and grab a quick bite to eat in one of the many restaurants and cafés that line the streets.

You can also find bike tours where you can explore the city with a knowledgeable local guide.

7. Visit Topkapi Palace

Situated in the Ottoman Empire’s former headquarters, the Turkish government transformed the historically important Topkapi Palace into one of Turkey’s most visited museums in 1924.

Since then, hundreds of rooms of the Palace have been turned into permanent residing places for some of Turkey’s most important artifacts like the Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. UNESCO labeled the Palace as a World Heritage Site in 1985 and has been one of Istanbul’s most visited attractions.

8. Sail the Bosphorus on a Cruise

Have a unique day and sail down the Bosphorus on a cruise boat. You’ll get a fantastic different perspective of the city from the water and will be able to see some famous sights you might not have been able to see otherwise.

If you want to do something super special, we recommend a sunset dinner cruise complete with entertainment. It’ll be fairly pricey, but you will be treated like royalty and you’ll have a fantastic experience on the Bosphorus.

9. Visit the Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar

The origins of the Grand Bazaar date back to the 15 th century when Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II ruled the roost in Istanbul. This makes it the world’s oldest covered market, with over 4,000 shops and stalls calling the 61 streets and alleyways home.

If you’re a bit of a foodie, the Spice Bazaar will be worth visiting. Mountains of vibrant spices as far as the eye can see line the market, as well as other delicacies such as dried fruits, nuts, and cheeses, and Turkish souvenirs , are all on offer too.

10. Delve into History at the Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts

In what is a mightily impressive museum in Istanbul , the Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts, unsurprisingly, combines the best of both Turkish and Islamic history.

Handily located in Sultanahmet, right near other must-do attractions like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, if you like your history then this is certainly worth spending an afternoon marveling at the 40,000 ancient wonders this museum holds.

Festivals and Events

Are you thinking of visiting some festivals or events in Istanbul ? Then you may enjoy these events!

16th – 23rd September – Istanbul Fringe Festival

In several locations across Istanbul, you will find performing arts events, live music, and theater.

The Fringe Festival will bring 15 international and 5 local shows to the city of Istanbul, which will share their love of the performing arts through a range of performances and workshops.

This is a buzzing event and definitely worth checking out during your trip to Istanbul.

19 th – 23 rd September – Contemporary Istanbul Exhibition

Turkey’s largest art market comes to Istanbul during the month of September annually. Though dates haven’t been released for the 2023 exhibition, the 2022 edition was held from the 19 th to the 23 rd of the month. Over 600 artists from Turkey and across the world showcase their best pieces of art. If you’re an art lover in the city, this exhibition is worth checking out.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Istanbul in September

So, as we’ve discussed, Istanbul is an incredible city that has so much to offer in any month of the year. If you’re still not sure if Istanbul is worth visiting in September, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons.

Days are mostly still sunny and warm.
All attractions are open.
Summer nights in Istanbul are one of the best things about the city.
Sea will be calm and warm.
Summer season is coming to an end, so could be some good last-minute deals on flights and hotels.
Huge increase in rainfall, so make sure you pack an umbrella.
As Autumn rolls into Istanbul, days become shorter.
Nights will feel noticeably chillier.

Where To Stay in Istanbul in September

One good thing about visiting Istanbul in September is that it’s still gorgeous weather but the summer crowds are starting to disperse. You may be able to find a good deal on accommodation this time of year!

Best Hostel in Istanbul – Cheers Hostel

Cheers Hostel is the best-located hostel in Istanbul, nestled behind the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. It offers comfortable, individually styled rooms and dorms, with spacious shared bathrooms. The terrace bar and restaurant serve up kebabs and international cuisine for those who don’t want to venture far for food and have wonderful views of Istanbul’s Old Town.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Istanbul – Dream Bosphorus Hotel

If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel in a great neighborhood, then Dream Bosphorus hotel is the ideal choice. It’s located in the heart of Old Istanbul, in the Sirkeci area. Each room has been individually styled in traditional Turkish decor and comes with a private bathroom and 24-hour room service. Some rooms have views of the Golden Horn. Each morning a daily breakfast buffet is served and the Dream Café offers soft drinks and snacks throughout the day. Each afternoon, it’s worth returning for free cakes and cookies.

Best Luxury Hotel in Istanbul – Hotel DeCamondo Galata

Located on the riverfront in Kadikoy, the Hotel DeCamondo is the ideal place to stay for a luxury getaway. It has a stunning bar and terrace as well as an onsite restaurant and car rentals. Each morning, a continental or a la carte breakfast is offered, and when it comes to exploring, the hotel can help organize your tours and car rentals.

Tips for Visiting Istanbul in September

If you do decide to visit Istanbul in September, here are a few tips to make your experience more enjoyable.

Pack for summer, but bring a jumper. The daytime weather will be warm and summery, so you’ll want to wear summer clothes when visiting. However, pack a jumper in case it gets cold at night. Also remember to bring conservative clothing for entering mosques.
Pack a headscarf if you’re a woman. You will need a scarf to cover your hair when entering a mosque. You also need your knees and shoulders covered, which shouldn’t be a problem if visiting in the winter.
Carry an umbrella and waterproof clothing. You might have a small chance of rain this time of year so be prepared with your waterproof gear.
Carry cash for the markets. Many shops still don’t accept cards.

Are you reading this from Turkey? Maybe you need a VPN!

If you’re already in Turkey, there is one thing you absolutely NEED: a reliable VPN .

You may find some of your favorite websites and apps are blocked in Turkey , such as popular hotel site booking.com

A VPN allows you to get passed this ruling and enables you to browse these sites without any hassle, and it’s completely legal.

We use Express VPN when we’re in Turkey and we’d recommend it to anyone. It’s affordable, quick, and easy to use.

FAQs About Istanbul in September

One good thing about visiting Istanbul in September is that it isn’t as hot as the scorching summer but still warm and lots going on. It’s still a busy season, so be prepared and book accommodation in advance…

Is September a good time to visit Istanbul?

September has sunny and warm weather and the crowds tend to thin towards the end of the month. We would say September is a good time to visit Istanbul.

Is September crowded in Istanbul?

At the beginning of September, you can expect Istanbul to be crowded. However once the schools go back, the crowds are much quieter.

Is September hot in Istanbul?

The weather in Istanbul in September is quite hot still, as summer temperatures tend to linger. But it is much more comfortable than July and August.

Before You Go

So there you have it, this is everything you need to know about visiting Istanbul in September. As you can see, the weather is warm and sunny, but do bare in mind that the crowds will still linger around the start of the month.

As this is the end of summer, expect to see some festivals and events still happening, but they will start winding down for Autumn.

We hope you have a great time exploring Istanbul in September!

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Take a walk along the Historic Sultanahmet Square

Sultanahmet Square is the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Stroll through the square to witness the majesty of the Blue Mosque, the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, and the captivating allure of the Hippodrome.

Visit Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace is a magnificent oriental palace and one of world’s richest museums that is situated on a triangular promontory dominating the Bosphorus & Golden Horn.

This is a magnificent oriental palace and one of the world’s greatest architectural works. Once a residence of the Ottoman Sultans, it is also one of world’s richest museums .

It was the residence of the Ottoman Sultans from 15th century to mid-19th century. It has four courtyards, terraces with astonishing views, as well as precious collections, one of the top tourist attractions in the city.

It houses the finest samples of seal, book binding, jewelry and box craftsmanship as well as inscriptions, as well as the finest collection of Chinese porcelain in the world.

Allow several hours for your visit to fully appreciate the palace.
Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the palace terraces.
Skip-the-Line Admission ticket to Topkapi Palace & Harem Section (One of the best and cheapest price on net)
Topkapi Palace Ticket, Tour, Audio App (great one, guide and audio app will lead you for all)
Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Historian Guide (if you want a pro-guide with you inc. Harem)
Combo Ticket & Tour ( all top-3 one - Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern, our favorite , no need to look for else, trust us)
Istanbul Must See Highlights Tour (another combo with Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque & Bosphorus Cruise)
Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace Half Day Tour (good one)
Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket (good one)

Wanna learn more about Topkapi Palace?

Explore the famous Basilica Cistern

Basilica Cistern Museum is one of the most impressive and mystical buildings in the city. The two Medusa Heads , which are used as supports under the two columns at the northwest edge of the cistern, take the most interest and attracts the visitors.

The cistern is a very quiet and peaceful place conveyed by the columns through impressive arches .

Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Capture the atmospheric reflections on the water’s surface.
Skip-the-Line Tickets to Basilica Cistern (quick entrance + 30 mins. with guide)
Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Tickets + Tour (quick entrance + 30 mins. with guide)
Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Tickets + Tour (another quick entrance + 30 mins. with guide)
Combo Ticket & Tour ( all top-3 one - Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern, our favorite , no need to look for else)
Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide (another great one with guide)

Wanna learn more about Basilica Cistern?

We highly recommend you to visit and see all these three museums at once. It would take about 3 hours total. And you should get Skip-the-line-tickets to save yourself from the long queues.

Combo Tickets: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern

This is a great combo ticket. Our favorite. You can visit the above top 3 most visited sights in Sultanahmet with this combo ticket, with skip the lines access. Great value for money. Book your tickets online in advance as they are selling out quickly.

Buy Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern Combo Ticket

Click the red button to buy Combo online tickets and skip the lines.

Explore Sultanahmet

2. Tour city on Double Decker Tourist Bus

Istanbul Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a cheap way to discover and explore the popular zones of Istanbul which you just couldn’t walk to and see in one day. The sightseeing bus runs every 30/60 minutes and lets you see the most popular popular sights along the interesting and different districts and neighborhoods of the city. And what is great that you can all do it in a couple of hours.

The city sightseeing bus runs every 30/60 minutes and lets you see the most popular popular sights along the interesting and different districts and neighborhoods of the city. And what is great that you can all do it in a couple of hours.

Hop On Hop Off Istanbul (best price, audio guide will lead you for all)
1-Day Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with Commentary (top selling one)
1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket and Scenic Cruise ( combo – good for both bus and cruise trip)
Two Continents Evening Bus Tour with Commentary (evening bus tour is also fantastic)

Wanna learn more about Istanbul Hop-on Hop-off Bus?

3. Enjoy the Top Festivals & Events

Istanbul international biennial, september – november.

For art enthusiasts, the Istanbul International Biennial is a must-visit event during the autumn season. Held every two years from September to November, this prestigious art exhibition showcases contemporary works by both Turkish and international artists. Explore thought-provoking installations, paintings, and sculptures at various venues throughout the city, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s thriving art scene. More info on bienal.iksv.org/en

Enjoy the Coffee Festival, September

Coffee Connoisseur’s Paradise – A Caffeine Celebration: For coffee enthusiasts, October brings the Istanbul Coffee Festival, a sensory journey into the world of coffee. Sip on rich Turkish coffee, explore artisanal roasteries, and learn the art of coffee-making from experts.

Istanbul’s Coffee Festival is about 4 days long kind of a carnival, bringing coffee from all over the world to the coffee-lovers’ taste. You can have a fantastic day out and taste coffee from numerous stands, as well as participate to coffee workshops, seminars, playground events and competitions. More information on coffeefestival.com

Attend coffee workshops to enhance your brewing skills.
Don’t miss the chance to taste unique coffee creations.

4. Explore the city’s popular sights on bike

Being outdoors and touring the popular tourist spots on bike is definitely a great attraction. Wind through the historic center , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sultanahmet . Explore the Golden Horn , the hub of culture and entertainment in the Beyoglu district . Navigate the maze of vendors selling Turkish rugs, spices and lamps in the Grand Bazaar . Marvel at the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia .

Wanna learn more about Istanbul on bike and best bike tours?

5. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Bosphorus cruise is a popular, unique and fantastic forms of entertainment and sightseeing during your Istanbul stay. It is also one of the best ways to discover and enjoy the most beautiful sights and sounds of the city over the sea.

You’ll be able to explore the city at your own pace on board of the boat, and enjoy all the famous landmarks on the Boshphorus such as Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower and the Bosphorus Bridge.

And especially if you take the Bosphorus dinner cruise , or Sunset cruise , you will be mesmerized with the historical monuments that are lit up

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table (the best dinner cruise , over 12.000 reviews, check them and enjoy)
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 1 (the best sunset , on yacht, don't miss)
Bosphorus on Yacht Cruise with Stopover on Asian Side (great with stopover at Kanlica , we highly recommend)
Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks (superb yacht cruise)
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 2 (another great sunset , on yacht, don't miss)
Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show (superb dinner cruise on a catamaran , don't miss!)
All Inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Private Table (great dinner cruise, check it out)
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 3 (superb sunset , on yacht, don't miss)
Maiden's Tower Ticket w/ Transfer & Audio Guide (cheapest price, the only Maiden's Tower fast track entry online ticket)

Wanna learn more about Bosphorus Cruises?

6. A fantastic day out at the Princes’ Islands

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle with a day trip to the Princes’ Islands. These serene islands, including Büyükada and Heybeliada, offer a tranquil retreat where horse-drawn carriages replace electric vehicles, and lush landscapes invite exploration.

Once was the pleasure island of Byzantine Princes, and with its stunning pinewood scenery, the Princes’ Islands are one of the best preserved natural areas and sights in Istanbul. It is one of the best attractions and weekend breaks in Istanbul both for locals and tourists.

You can take a 1 hour cruise to the islands, have a great day out by full tour of the island on the horse-drawn carriage, rest in a cafe by the sea, a lunch at a local fish restaurant. Or you can have a romantic overnight stay in one of the pretty hotels on the island.

Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll to explore the islands.
Enjoy a seafood feast at a waterfront restaurant.
Round-Trip Ticket for Princes’ Island Ferry & Audio Guide
Princes’ Islands Cruise w/Music, Lunch & Transfer
Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch from Istanbul

Wanna learn more about Princes’ Islands?

7. Enjoy Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Entertainment

This is one of the best Bosphorus night cruises with dinner and entertainment. Also one of the most attended ones. Take in sights of the Bosphorus on board a Mega Lufer Yacht . Enjoy the city view with a 3-course meal while you listen to live music and watch stage performances at private tables. It has excellent number of over 11000 and 5/5 reviews on GetYourGuide.

Yacht cruise with onboard Wi-Fi
Dinner (9 types of mixed Turkish appetizers, hot starter, main course, dessert, and fruit)
Unlimited soft drinks
Live entertainment program
Alcoholic drinks (if option selected), Turkish coffee and tea
Private table
Hotel pickup and drop-off is from Sultanahmet, Taksim, Sirkeci, Sütlüce, Kağıthane, Kabataş, Eminönü, Şişli, Aksaray, Karaköy, Levent and Beyoğlu areas.

You can easily see that this Mega Lufer Yacht sells the most and has over 10,000 five star reviews.

You can use public transport to come to the boat. The pier is located in Kabatas , about 5 minutes walking distance from Galataport and Dolmabahce Palace. If you take the F1 Funicular from Taksim, you can reach Kabatas in 5-10 minutes. You can come to Kabatas by T1 tram from Sultanahmet, Eminonu or Karakoy. Pier location Google Maps

If you choose hotel pickup, you can be picked up and dropped off from various locations, such as Sultanahmet, Taksim, Sirkeci, Sütlüce, Kağıthane, Kabataş, Eminönü, Şişli, Aksaray, Karaköy, Levent and Beyoğlu. You should wait in the hotel lobby at least 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. The pickup service starts between 30 to 90 minutes before the boat departure.

Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance

Book Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table by Getyourguide

Book Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table by Viator

Wanna learn more about Bosphorus Dinner Cruise?

8. Visit Galata Tower and admire the stunning views

Galata Tower is an old Genoese tower overlooking the beautiful Istanbul and has a luxurious restaurant at the top. You can enjoy the excellent panoramic views of Istanbul, Golden Horn and Bosphorus.

Galata Tower Ticket and Walking Tour (best one with a guide + 5% discount )
Galata Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide (good one with audio)

Wanna learn more about Galata Tower?

9. Visit Pierre Loti Hill and enjoy the impressive views of Golden Horn with Turkish Coffee

Pierre Loti Hill is a great leisure and tourist area in Eyup and one of the most popular sights and places to visit and see for both locals and tourists in the Golden Horn region of Istanbul. Pierre Loti Hill offers great views for the visitors. The hill is about 55 meters from sea level. Drinking your tea or Turkish coffee at the Pierre Loti Cafe and enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Golden Horn is a great activity at the Pierre Loti Hill. Continue reading…

10. Catch summer sales at Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall and visit Sea Life Aquarium inside

Forum Istanbul is the largest Shopping and Residential Center in Europe. 495.000 m2, 286 domestic & international brands. Cinemaximum Movie Theaters, Funlab Entertainment World, Atlantis Bowling, Tiox Entertainment Center, Flyride Helicopter Simulation and Sand Castle apart from large-scale and tailor-made playgrounds. In addition, the famous Sea Life Istanbul Aquarium , which house the largest shark family in Europe, and the Legoland Discovery Center in Turkey also situated in Forum Istanbul.

Sea Life Istanbul Aquarium is the 5th largest aquarium in the world . Visitors may experience and enjoy the lovely sea creatures , the largest collection of sharks in Europe , the Digital Aquarium , the Turtle Hospital where you may see the injured turtles are getting healed, thematic zones, school trips, birthday parties and much more.

Below are the online tickets that you can buy directly from the Venue.

SEA LIFE Istanbul General Admission Ticket online from Viator
SEA LIFE Istanbul Entry Ticket Online from GetYourGuide

Wanna learn more about Aquarium Sea Life Istanbul?

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What to Wear in Istanbul in Each Season (Women’s Packing List)

Istanbul is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a storied past, at the heart of several empires throughout time.

Once the heart of the Byzantine empire during its days as Constantinople, then the center of the Ottoman empire, now Istanbul is the beating heart of modern-day Turkey. Istanbul is a thriving and secular city with a penchant for creativity and self-expression.

Istanbulite women generally dress rather stylishly, adhering to Western fashion trends and expressing their own unique street style. You don’t need to be especially conservative with how you dress in Istanbul; the only thing to keep in mind is that there are dress codes for mosques, Orthodox churches, and other religious sites.

Usually, coverings will be provided at these religious sites (unless you are truly off the beaten path at a mosque that doesn’t anticipate visitors!); however, you may be more comfortable bringing your own shawls and coverings.

We have a complete Turkey packing list , which includes everything you’d ever possibly want to bring to Istanbul (and then some!). However, this post focuses more on style, outfit ideas, and what to wear in specific seasons rather than an all-encompassing list of what to bring to Istanbul.

With that said, I’ll go into our suggestions for what to wear in Istanbul in each season of the year, starting with summer!

What to Wear in Istanbul in Summer (June, July, August)

Since Istanbul is a pretty secular city, you don’t have to worry much about modesty in the summer — trust me, locals won’t either!

We do suggest staying away from shorts. While comfortable, they scream tourist — and that can be a safety hazard when it comes to pickpockets!

We also suggest having a lightweight shawl in your bag just in case you want to stop by a mosque, so you don’t have to borrow their not-so-cute coverups.

Summer dresses

If you want to fit in with how you dress in Istanbul in summer, skip the touristy shorts and tees and think casual yet refined clothing.

Flowy dresses are always a great pick for Istanbul summers, which can be hot, humid, and sticky. I tend to prefer dresses with a flowy skirt rather than a tight-fitting one (after all, you’ll want that breathing room after a few Turkish breakfasts!).

Dresses that cover the shoulders will transition better for mosque visits, but don’t feel like you can’t bring anything that bears your shoulders.

We love this summer dress as well as this one if you need some inspiration!

Midi & maxi dresses

I love midi and maxi dresses for summer. It’s a “one and done” situation – just throw on a dress, pick some shoes, and toss in a scarf or chambray shirt for coverage later on as needed.

Here’s a simple one we like, and we also love this colorful maxi dress for livening up your photos.

The Instagram gold standard, you’ll definitely want to pack some cute midi and maxi skirts to wear in summer in Istanbul.

In summer, I love midi skirts and maxi skirts . If you’re an avid Instagrammer, we love this ultra-photogenic maxi skirt .

A denim jacket or chambray shirt

While Istanbul in June through August is hot, hot, hot, that doesn’t mean nights can’t be cool — nor that museums, restaurants, shops, and other indoor places won’t be freezing cold with A/C blasting!

I generally carry a chambray shirt like this one in my daybag with me at all times – it’s lightweight and easy to throw on when entering a place that’s cooler than you expect, or if the sun sets while you’re out sightseeing and you start to feel a slight chill.

If you want a more warm option, a chic denim jacket like this one is always great and pairs excellently with sundresses and maxi dresses which always make up the bulk of my summer wardrobe!

Comfortable shoes

Istanbul is a hilly, huge city and you’ll definitely want to pack comfortable shoes for your time in this amazing city!

I use and swear by these Birkenstocks in the summer. I also sometimes wear a pair of black Nikes (worn with no-show socks ) when I know I’ll be on my feet for a really long time.

A summer hat

Keep those harmful UV rays out of your face with a sunhat in the summer!

As a bonus, it looks super cute in Instagram photos!

We both carry the CitySafe backpack by PacSafe not only on our travels but in our day-to-day lives. It’s cute, it’s functional, it’s comfortable, and it’s secure as hell.

We’re talking about interlocking zippers (which you can then put through a second clasp for two layers of security which basically no thief will ever both with), slash-proof wire mesh construction, and RFID blockers to keep your personal data safe.

While I’ve included this in the summer section, it’s great year-round!

What to Wear in Istanbul in Fall (September, October, November)

While you can wear a lot of the above in the early fall as well, we’ve included some things you should consider packing to wear in Istanbul in fall.

Note that there is quite a bit of variation with the fall season! What to wear in Istanbul in September is going to be very different than what to wear in Istanbul in November, so look a little more towards the above summer section if visiting in September. Our biggest tip is to look a little more towards the below winter section if visiting in November to better tailor your Istanbul wardrobe for the time of year.

A coat or jacket

If visiting Istanbul in September or October, you’ll be fine with just a denim jacket or maybe even a cute vegan leather jacket . Istanbul in fall can get a bit chilly, especially at night, and if you’re visiting Istanbul in November you’ll definitely want a proper coat!

While it may be a bit overkill if you’re only visiting Istanbul in September, near the end of fall, a wool peacoat or other similar warm jacket becomes indispensable! We recommend a neutral color like black or camel that blends easily with all your other clothing and looks sophisticated.

Long sleeve dresses

Swap out the summeriest dresses for some longer-sleeved dresses that pair well with leggings for fall.

We tend to wear our summer dresses with leggings and boots in fall, but some long-sleeve dresses will also balance out your wardrobe in the fall.

Long sleeve sweaters

Given that daytime temperatures can be quite chilly in Istanbul in October and November, you’ll be quite happy to have brought a long sleeve sweater or two with you. Even in September, it’s great to have to throw on at night!

Pair it with jeans, a short skirt with tights or leggings, a maxi skirt — the possibilities are endless!

Leather boots

It rains occasionally in the fall in Istanbul, so comfortable waterproof boots like these Blondo leather boots are a must. We also suggest these for winter and spring!

What to Wear in Istanbul in Winter (December, January, February)

Warm sweaters.

Visiting Istanbul in December through February is well worth it, but it brings a few challenges when it comes to planning what to wear in Istanbul in winter!

Istanbul is colder than you might expect in winter. My first trip to Istanbul was in February 2012, and I was shocked when I looked at the temperatures a day before my trip… and realized it was colder than NYC which I was leaving!

Warm sweaters paired with jeans (and leggings for extra warmth if needed) plus a jacket and all the winter accessories below will be the perfect Istanbul winter outfit!

We suggest this cute winter sweater and ones like it!

Jeans and leggings

To go with those winter sweaters, be sure to pack some jeans and leggings to mix and match. When it’s really cold in Istanbul in January and February, I add fleece-lined leggings or merino wool leggings underneath my jeans for added warmth… or sometimes I wear two layers of leggings.

If you’ll be bringing some leggings, you might want to add some skirts as well. Pick ones that pair well with your winter sweaters and make sure the length goes with the length of your winter jacket.

I tend to bring a black mini skirt like this one because the length fits beneath my jacket so the silhouette is right, and it looks good with leggings. Longer skirts plus leggings tend to look a bit strange so I avoid it when possible.

Sweater dresses

Great to wear instead of a winter sweater and jeans if you want to look a little more sleek and streamlined. I pair mine with fleece leggings and winter boots plus accessories. I love ones with a chunky knit like this one !

Winter coat

Don’t go to Istanbul in winter without a proper coat! With lows around freezing, you’ll definitely regret it.

If you’ll travel in winter frequently, I recommend a winter jacket like this North Face parka . I had mine with me in my February visit to Turkey and was so grateful for it! It’s a little pricy, but it literally comes with a lifetime guarantee and they will repair or replace it for free if you ever have any issues with your coat. I’ve owned mine for nearly a decade, no joke.

If that’s a little pricy for you, I suggest buying this affordable ultra light down , which you can use as a layer under your other jackets to add warmth. It’s not the most stylish look — it can make you look a tad puffy — but I wear mine under my leather jacket to extend leather jacket season quite often!

Winter hat, scarf, and gloves

Winter in Istanbul can be cold, cold, cold — expect temperatures around 40° F / 5 ° C most of December through February. And while friendly cat snuggles will certainly warm the heart, you’ll need stuff for the rest of your body, too.

In addition to some of the clothes suggested in the fall section above, supplement it with a warmer coat and some winter accessories. In addition to my North Face parka I described above, warm wool socks , touch-screen friendly gloves , a scarf , and a winter hat .

Winter boots

While it occasionally snows in Istanbul, you really don’t need full-on snow boots. Comfortable waterproof boots like these adorable Blondo leather boots will suit you perfectly — great for the rain, occasional snow, and for looking sleek during the winter while keeping your feet toasty warm! Just make sure you pair with wool socks to keep in warmth.

What to Wear in Istanbul in Spring (March, April, May)

Like I noted in the fall section above, Istanbul in spring is very different depending on what month of spring you are visiting. What to wear in Istanbul in March is going to be a lot more similar to winter wear than, say, what to wear in Istanbul in May, which will skew a lot more towards summer weather.

Take a look at the fall section above for the basics, then take a few cues from winter if visiting in early spring and summer if visiting in late spring.

However, be sure to make these additions, as spring in Istanbul is quite rainy!

Raincoat or trench coat

April showers bring May flowers… and this is certainly true for Istanbul! Expect cloudy and rainy days with intermittent sunshine in Istanbul in spring.

Be prepared for the rainy weather by bringing a waterproof coat — whether that’s a cute rainproof trench coat in a neutral beige or black, a bright yellow raincoat that’ll pop on Instagram, or a waxed canvas jacket that has a bit of edge to it.

Personally, I love this Marmot PreCip rain jacket which comes in a variety of colors, great for brightening up photos and keeping you dry.

And don’t forget a travel umbrella !

Waterproof boots

I’ve suggested my waterproof boots before, but here they are again: these adorable Blondo leather boots .

They’re great for the rain and can withstand even puddles without letting any water in – plus they’re sleek and stylish.

These Teva ankle boots may be a good fit as well.

Do I Need to Wear a Headscarf in Istanbul?

This question is commonly asked, so I want to dispell a few myths about how women should dress in Istanbul to start. In short: no, women do not need to wear a headscarf in Istanbul or in Turkey in general, outside of visiting mosques and other religious sites.

That said, if you’re a Muslim woman who typically veils, you will be in plenty of good company in Istanbul and you won’t feel ostracized or alienated for your choice to wear a headscarf.

The population of Turkey is 95% Muslim, yet the country itself ostensibly operates on principles of secularism outlined by the Turkish Republic’s founder, Atatürk.

Istanbul is mostly Muslim; however, the attitude in Istanbul is decidedly secular and modern. As a result, most women dress relatively modern and in keeping with Western fashion, not much different than you’d find in any other European city.

While traveling Turkey, you will certainly see women adhering to all different levels of hijab (Islamic veiling), from simple and stylish headscarves to full-on abayas and niqabs. The latter is on the rare side, and it is generally worn not by Turkish women but rather immigrants and refugees from other Muslim countries in the vicinity.

The truth is that the relationship between Turkey and the headscarf is long and complicated, far too difficult to get into in the context of a simple blog post on what to wear in Istanbul. Just know that for nearly a century the use of headscarves was outright discouraged or even banned (as it was from 1980 to 2013). Still to this day, women who wear headscarves often experience discrimination in the workplace, so the issue is far from solved. For more information, you can read a great article here .

Where to Stay in Istanbul

We have a ton of resources to help you decide where to stay in Istanbul!

Check our giant neighborhood guide and hotel recommendations, or look specifically for our favorite Sultanahmet hotels near the Blue Mosque or our favorite Bosphorus view hotels .

If you just want our quick recommendations, here are our top picks for each budget category.

Budget: For a great budget-friendly hotel, you can stay in single or double rooms at the Dreamers B&B . Colorful and cozy, the B&B boasts a fabulous location in Beyoglu, less than a kilometer from Taksim Square. You can explore all of Beyoglu from here, and then head to Sultanahmet when you’re ready to see the old city. Check pricing, reviews, and availability here.

Mid-Range: For an affordable, yet trendy boutique hotel, we recommend Peradays . It’s perfect for all Istanbul visitors, from first-timers to Istanbul veterans. The lofted rooms are generously large, so you can spread out and relax after a long day of sightseeing. They also have two cats that live here, Pera and Daisy, which you’ll be happy to greet after counting cats all day when out in the city. Check pricing, reviews, and availability here.

Luxury: Istanbul has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but we love Hammamhane , a boutique apartment-hotel that was originally a hammam, and the sister hotel of Peradays. Built in a historic hammam (Turkish bath), the suites are spacious and luxurious. Located in the heart of Cukurcuma, the antiques district, Hammamhane is within walking distance to art galleries, design stores, antique shops, and chic cafés. Check pricing, reviews, and availability here.

More Turkey Travel Resources

Turkey - Istanbul - Istanbul in Winter Snow Selfie Stephanie

Headed to Turkey? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip.

If this will be your first time traveling to Turkey , check out this guide to planning a trip to Turkey (including visa information) and this guide beautiful places to visit in Turkey . You can also check out our Balkan currency guide , which explains how the Turkish lira works and guidelines for tipping in Istanbul.

If you’re heading to Istanbul, we have you covered. Start with our essential Istanbul Travel Tips and guide to staying safe in Istanbul

We’re working on our massive things to do in Istanbul post, plus you can check out our guide to the best Instagram spots around Istanbul, tips for shopping in Istanbul , the best Turkish food to eat, how to plan an Istanbul honeymoon , and what to do in Istanbul at night.

If you will be visiting in winter, we have a special winter in Istanbul guide plus an overview of Istanbul weather in January.

If you want to be in the city for just a few days (four or less), check out our Istanbul city break guide , which breaks down the best of the city so you won’t miss anything!

Headed to Cappadocia? If you’re curious about the most Instagrammable places in Cappadocia , we’ve got you covered. We also have posts on the best things to do in Cappadocia , and how to plan a perfect 3 day Cappadocia itinerary , plus how to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul.

We have tons more Turkey and Balkans resources, and we publish new content nearly daily. Bookmark our Turkey and Balkans travel pages so you can find any new resources that come out before your trip!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

I’m sure you’re aware that travel insurance is a good idea for traveling in Turkey (or really, any part of the world)! Steph and I have both been paying customers of World Nomads for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption.

While Turkey is safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel, so it’s better to play it safe.

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here <<

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Courtesy of Leonardo Patrizi | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Istanbul

The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That's when crowds at the city's attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime temperatures generally sit in the 60s and 70s. Peak season – from June to August – sees temps soar into the low 60s to low 80s, and accommodation prices increase to match the demand from incoming tourists. December through February, meanwhile, are the cheapest months to visit, but Istanbul's rainy, snowy and chilly conditions (temps are in the high 30s to high 50s) mean you'll have to don cold weather attire and lug an umbrella during your stay.

Weather in Istanbul

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Istanbul

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Wander-Lush

42 Things to Know Before You Visit Istanbul: Helpful Istanbul Travel Tips

Istanbul is a magnificent beast.

Thirty-nine districts, 15 million people, and 1700-plus years of history – it’s still difficult for me to wrap my head around a city of this scale.

I never know where to begin with Istanbul. And yet every time I arrive, I somehow feel instantly at ease. Turkey’s biggest metropolis has a way of encircling you, sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. For me, it’s one of those places where it’s best to relinquish expectations and anxieties and just go with the flow.

View of Istanbul city at sunset from the Galata Bridge, with a Bosphorus ferry and mosque minarets. Travel tips for visiting Istanbul for the first time.

That’s easier said than done, and there are countless tidbits I wish I had known before I visited Istanbul for the first time back in 2019. On my recent re-visit, there were many more things I noticed for the first time.

I struggled to whittle this list down to a digestible size – not because travelling in Istanbul is particularly complicated or difficult, but because when you’re dealing with a city of such incredible breadth and depth, there’s just so much to talk about.

Here are 42 Istanbul tips that I think every traveller will benefit from , including cultural quirks, itinerary planning tips, logistics hints, and common faux pas.

Also read: The perfect itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Istanbul quick links

Istanbul airport transfer: Private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen (from $27)
Where to stay in Istanbul: Hostel Le Banc (budget); 38 Hotel (mid-range); Hotel Empress Zoe (boutique); Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (luxury)
Istanbul Official E-Pass: Pre-purchase online here
Skip the line: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour (from $40)
Best Istanbul food tour: Taste of 2 Continents (from $100)
Top-rated Istanbul city tour: Best of Istanbul in 1 Day (from $60)
Turkey car hire: Find a low-cost rental on Local Rent (from 28€/day)

Essential Istanbul travel tips

Starting with the basics, here are answers to some of the burning questions I had before my first visit to Turkey (Türkiye) and Istanbul.

1. Avoid visiting in summer

Never underestimate Istanbul’s magnetism. The city pulled in more than 14 million tourists in 2019 (including me), and on my most recent trip in 2022, it felt just as crowded as it had been three years earlier.

I’m willing to bet that most people visit Istanbul during the summer months – June, July and August. This feels a bit hypocritical because I myself have visited Istanbul twice during summer – but because I did, I know what peak season is like.

Istanbul’s climate is quite mild relative to other cities in the region. Temperatures might not go too far beyond 30 degrees Celsius in the shade, but the sun is scorching hot, and it’s very dry.

Aside from the oppressive heat, there are the summer swarms to contend with. (You haven’t really experienced a queue until you’ve stood in line for the Hagia Sophia on an August afternoon.) There are crushing crowds at every landmark during summer, and that gets old pretty quickly. On top of that, accommodation prices are noticeably higher and it can be challenging to get a reservation.

The best time to visit Istanbul is during shoulder season, spring (April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to the start of November). For something different, consider visiting Turkey in winter , when snow covers Istanbul and the city’s charm-o-metre is off the charts.

Take note of the dates for the Holy Month of Ramadan (usually around March-April-May, but it changes every year), which influences the way the city operates.

2. You need at least three days to do Istanbul justice

However many days you give yourself in Istanbul, it will never be enough. You will always feel like you short-changed yourself – there’s always one more neighbourhood to explore, one more ferry trip to take, one more museum to visit, one more restaurant to try…

Three days is the bare minimum for a first-time visitor, but you could easily stay for a week or more.

I recently spent 10 days in Istanbul and found it was a good amount of time to see the city at a relaxed pace. I stayed in the centre for that entire time, though I did have a few ‘down’ days to work. There are dozens of day trip opportunities to break things up if the city gets to be too much.

One of the highlights of Istanbul is the food, so you’d do well to measure the duration of your stay in meals eaten rather than nights slept! Six square meals (and a couple of ‘spread breakfasts’) is ideal for indulging in the best of Istanbul’s food scene .

Plan your time with my 4-day Istanbul itinerary , which covers the must-sees and a few local gems.

Ottoman-era wooden houses in Arnavutkoy district of Istanbul, Turkey.

3. Save time (and maybe money) by applying for an e-visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Türkiye. The country’s e-visa scheme, which launched in 2013, is available to citizens of 40+ countries, including the States, Australia and Canada. (EU citizens do not need a visa.) A standard multiple-entry visa is valid for a stay of up to 90 days with 180 days validity from the date of issue.

Visa on arrival (VOA) is also available, but if you’re flying in, it requires queueing at the airport – and because of the high volume of flights arriving at IST particularly, it can be a long wait. For some nationalities, it’s also more expensive – 10 USD dearer on average compared to the e-visa according to the official fees (though for US passport holders, VOA is cheaper).

Applying for a Turkish e-visa requires completing a simple online form. The website has English-language support and international card payment, but be warned that sometimes it’s a bit glitchy. Both times I’ve applied, my visa has landed in my inbox almost instantly (within the hour). Be sure to print off the A4 piece of paper to show at immigration.

There are copycat sites out there – the official e-visa portal is located here .

I have never been asked for proof of onward travel or a hotel reservation when entering Turkey. If you want one or both for peace of mind without making an actual booking, then I suggest using OneWayFly .

4. Travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you’re travelling on an e-visa (I haven’t), but rules are rules nonetheless.

Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur. More importantly, local health care can be expensive, so it pays to be covered in case of accident or unexpected illness.

For single-policy or annual trip insurance, I recommend HeyMondo. Get 5% off your policy when you sign up using this link .

Read up on these Istanbul safety tips before you go.

5. Use the Havabus (Havaist) shuttle to travel to/from the airport

Update: Since publishing this guide, both Istanbul airports now have an underground metro service. I would definitely look into this option – avoiding traffic could be a real time-saver. Here are more details .

Havabus is a terrific service for travelling between Istanbul’s airports (yes, there is more than one – see the next point) and the downtown area. Shuttles operate 24/7, with departures in both directions every 30-60 minutes.

Tip: At Sabiha Gokcen airport, the shuttle is called Havabus and at Istanbul Airport, it’s called Havaist. I have used both – they operate in much the same way, but they have separate websites for checking the schedule ( here for Havabus and here for Havaist).

When you land in Istanbul, look for the airport bus signage. At Sabiha Gokcen, the bus stand is located on the other side of the car park directly in front of the arrivals terminal. Tickets are purchased using cash on the bus and cost 37.50 TRY (around 2 USD) per person to go to Taksim.

If you prefer a private transfer, airport cars are very well priced (from $27 to/from either airport). Pre-book a door-to-door airport transfer online here .

Eventually the Istanbul metro will extend to IST Airport, but the line has not been completed yet.

6. There are multiple airports in Istanbul – don’t front up at the wrong one!

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s largest and busiest international airport. Located on the European side in Arnavutkoy, 40km / 45 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square, it is sometimes referred to as ‘Istanbul Grand Airport’ or IGA. If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines or from Europe, there’s a high chance you will be landing at IST.

A second airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), receives flights from the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar ) as well as Turkey’s own Pegasus Airlines. It is located on the Asian side, 40km / 60 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square.

A third airport, Ataturk Airport, closed in 2019.

The two airports are 80km apart and it takes at least 75-90 minutes to travel between them. There are shuttle buses, but if you show up at the wrong one for your flight, there’s a good chance you’ll be left high and dry. Triple-check your reservation and make sure you show up at the correct airport.

We got caught out with this on our first trip and rolled up at the wrong airport for our flight back to Australia. Luckily we had come a day early with the intention of staying the night at the airport hotel, so we still made our flight.

You can use Havabus/Havaist to get back to the airport from the city, too. Buses depart from Taksim Square. Take the metro to Taksim and follow the exit towards Taksim Gezi Park. From there, the station is a short walk (you will see the coaches waiting and two ticket booths on the footpath).

Buses to both airports depart from the same area, so again, triple-check you’re hopping on the right one!

7. Pre-book your accommodation

Hotel platform Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey, so if this is your preferred way to find accommodation, you’ll need to do your browsing and booking before you arrive. (This can be overcome by using a VPN of course.)

Pre-booking is essential for peak-period travel as properties do fill up and prices can skyrocket for last-minute reservations.

I normally use Airbnb in Istanbul for the simple reason that I prefer to stay in local neighbourhoods. Sisli is my district of choice: It has great access to public transport, fantastic local restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.

8. Card is widely accepted, but it helps to carry cash

Ninety-nine percent of venues and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as contactless pay. For small markets and convenience stores, local restaurants, bars and taxis – and when dipping into the wonderful world of Istanbul street food – you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit set on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills also come in handy for tipping (more on that later).

I suggest withdrawing cash when you first arrive and reserving it for smaller purchases and tips. Check out my Istanbul Travel Budget to learn more about budgeting for your trip and the cost of common items and services.

Tipping is Istanbul, Turkish lira notes and coins on a restaurant table.

9. Most ATMs in Turkey charge a fee

ATMs are ubiquitous in Istanbul and most of the time, you’ll see half a dozen different cash machines clustered together. Majority charge a withdrawal fee – up to 5% for some banks – and have a transaction limit of between 3000-5000 TRY.

The only no-fee ATM we could find was Ziraat Bank. It’s red with a distinctive wheatear logo. We also used HalkBank, which did not charge us a withdrawal fee, but did hit us with a 13 TRY fee on Wise.

Banks change their fee structure regularly, so you might need to experiment with a few different machines. If the bank does charge a fee – either a flat fee or a percentage – this should always be displayed on the screen before you finalise the transaction.

On our first trip to Turkey, we had issues with our Australian bank cards not being accepted. This time around, I used my Wise card without any issues. I found the best method for withdrawing cash was to exchange stored currency to Turkish lira within the Wise app, then withdraw lira from the ATM.

Wise is great for international travel and offers very competitive exchange rates – if you don’t yet have an account, you can sign up here .

10. Buying a SIM card in Istanbul is easy, but your options are limited

Open WIFI is not readily accessible in Istanbul, which makes buying a local SIM card more or less a necessity.

If you’re not a Turkish citizen and you don’t hold a residency permit, you’ll find you have limited options when it comes to buying a SIM. Low-cost packages are not available to foreigners and most telcos only offer one standard tourist package.

After doing a bit of research, we settled on a Vodafone SIM. Vodafone only has one option for tourists, which includes 20GB of data, calls and texts, and unlimited access to Whatsapp. We paid 350 TRY (around 19 USD).

The process of buying a SIM is very straightforward and only took us about 15 minutes. You need a hard copy of your passport for registration, so make sure you’re carrying it with you. The tourist SIM automatically expires after 60 days.

A red Vodafone sim card at a shop in Istanbul, the best sim card for tourists in Turkey.

11. The public transport system is phenomenal

If you’re considering hiring a car in Turkey to continue your travels beyond the city, make sure you pick it up on the outskirts of the city (possible when using a company such as Local Rent ). The traffic is maniacal and I would not recommend driving in the city centre.

There’s no reason to drive a car in Istanbul, anyway: The public transport system is affordable, easy to use and reliable. Between the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and my personal favourite, dolmus vans, you can get anywhere you need to go with ease. Google Maps works well for planning your route.

Dolmus minivans – Turkey’s answer to a marshrutka – are a fun experience. The name literally means ‘stuffed’ because passengers are squeezed in like sardines. Keep in mind that the entire transport network is very busy and squishy during peak hour, especially in the morning between about 8-9.30am.

When boarding a bus in Istanbul, enter through the front door and tap your IstanbulKart on the electronic reader. If the bus is very full, you can board through the back doors and pass your card down the line for someone at the front to swipe.

12. You need an IstanbulKart transport pass

On our first trip to Istanbul, we walked a lot and relied on buying single-journey metro tickets for longer trips. This time around, we re-learned that only certain ticket machines inside the metro dispense single tickets – and usually they are the ones with an obnoxiously long line of people.

An IstanbulKart is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport. There are several different cards available – all are valid for the metro, buses, trams and ferries. The so-called Anonymous IstanbulKart is recommended for tourists and is sold at kiosks and newsstands and inside metro stations for 50 TRY (non-refundable). You can use one card for multiple people (up to five people).

A single IstanbulKart fare costs 7.67 TRY. Compared to the 15 TRY for a single-journey ticket, you’ll end up saving almost 50% on every trip.

Note that metrobus fares vary according to the number of stops travelled, but metro fares are flat. Transfers are charged at 5.49 TRY for the first transfer and 4.17 TRY for the second leg.

Find more information about the public transport system here .

13. Use an app for taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul’s cab system is similarly well organised, with three types of taxis at different price points. Yellow taxis are standard and have the lowest fares (6.3 TL/km plus a switch-on fee of 9.8 TL). Turquoise taxis are a premium service and cost 20% more, while black taxis (always luxury vehicles) are twice as expensive as yellow taxis.

Taxis are metered, so it’s generally considered safe for a tourist to hail a cab on the street. However, scams do happen , which is one of the reasons most people (including many locals) prefer to use an app.

After numerous legal battles, Uber re-launched in Turkey in 2021. We used it on several occasions and found the service to be good – short wait times, friendly drivers, and competitive fares (we always paid in cash rather than hooking up our credit card – make sure you are carrying small bills).

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

A yellow taxi on a steep street in Istanbul's Galata district.

14. Tipping is standard

Tipping is customary in Turkey, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash.

Of course you should only tip if you’re satisfied with the service. We found the quality of customer service in Istanbul to be pretty good across the board, with the exception of one chain cafe where we had a terrible experience.

Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to your tellak or natir at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

15. Can you drink the tap water in Istanbul?

This is a rhetorical question, because I’m still not sure what the correct answer is! Locals will warn you off tap water while at the same time, the government is running campaigns to encourage more people to drink from the faucet.

From what I understand, Istanbul tap water was undrinkable a decade ago. Infrastructure improvements (and the addition of chlorine to the water stream) have made tap water safe to drink, but many people still prefer to drink bottled water.

If the building you’re staying in has old, rusty pipes, it might be best to give tap water a wide berth. Try a small quantity and see how it sits with you.

16. Don’t flush your loo paper

Istanbul’s pipes are a bit sensitive, thus most restaurants, cafes and hotels request you place toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it down the loo. If this is the case, you’ll likely see a sign and a strategically placed wastepaper bin. If in doubt, don’t flush it.

17. If you need a bathroom, head to the nearest mosque

After chasing after non-existent bathrooms in malls and metro stations, I finally cottoned onto this little Istanbul tip: There are public toilets attached to most mosques and in my experience, they are almost always cleaner than public bathrooms elsewhere. Pan toilets are common. Men’s rooms are marked with bay , and women’s with bayan .

Some bathrooms are free to use, while others charge a small (1-2 TRY) fee. Another good reason to carry some small bills or coins with you.

18. Sip ayran to keep your tummy happy

Ayran is a savoury yogurt drink that has its roots in Turkey, but is popular around the region (I developed my ayran addiction several years ago in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have been sipping it ever since). It’s not too creamy, not too watery, and has just a hint of salty effervescence.

Because it’s yogurt, it’s full of good bacteria that do wonders to keep your gut in balance. Just as you might drink lassis in India, you can drink ayran in Istanbul to help ward off any potential food or water-related bugs.

Food poisoning definitely does occur in Istanbul, so watch what you eat and try to consume street food earlier in the day when it’s fresher (especially fish wraps and seafood).

People drink ayran with breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is served at virtually every restaurant in Istanbul – either in little plastic tubs or from a fountain. Always go for the fresh option when it’s available: It’s light and aerated and extra delicious, presented with a big scoop of yogurty foam on top.

A silver cup of ayran, a creamy yogurt drink served with a round spoon at a restaurant in Istanbul, Turkey.

19. Drinking is common, but alcohol is not ubiquitous

The most popular alcoholic drinks in Istanbul are beer, wine and raki , a powerful spirit distilled from grapes or other fruits. Not all restaurants serve alcohol, however, and when you make your way over to the Asian side of Istanbul (which is noticeably more conservative), you’ll find that only a handful of establishments are licensed.

If you prefer to BYO, tekels are Istanbul’s answer to bottle shops. They normally sell a selection of local bottled beers and Turkish wines along with soft drinks, snack foods and cigarettes. It’s illegal to sell alcohol within 100 metres of a mosque or a school, so you won’t find any tekels in some neighbourhoods.

Sales are restricted to certain times of day – you cannot purchase drinks from a bottle shop between 10am and 6am (there are no restrictions on restaurants and bars, though). Alcohol is served as normal during Ramadan.

Excessive drinking is taboo in Turkish culture. Raki, the national drink, is a social beverage consumed slowly with food. It has aniseed notes and is sometimes served over water and ice, which gives it a milky colour.

If you want to try raki, head to a meyhane (meze bar), where alcohol is served with small places of food (also see point #26 on this list). You can order a small 350 mL bottle or a shot (~40 mL). Start slow – some rakis are 80-90 proof.

20. English is widely spoken (sort of)

The number of Turkish people who speak English is somewhere between 15-20% . Of course the rate is much higher in Istanbul, but still, English is not as widespread as you might imagine.

We found a bit of a paradox here: In big shops and phone stores, very little English was spoken, while we encountered staff who spoke perfect English in small restaurants and humble bakeries.

The bottom line is that it’s a bit of a mixed bag, so be prepared to sign and mime your way through some situations. Of course it helps to have some simple Turkish under your belt – knowing a few basic phrases can help to smooth things over.

Istanbul quirks to know before you go

Here are a few unusual quirks that tripped us up in Istanbul.

21. Pharmacies are hard to find

Turkey differentiates between ‘pharmacies’ and ‘cosmetic stores’ in a way that I’ve not noticed in any other country. The latter sells beauty and health products, but there is no pharmacist on staff and nowhere to buy over-the-counter medications or prescription meds.

Chains such as Watsons, Rossmann and Gratis are classified as ‘cosmetics stores’. If you need anything more serious than paracetamol or a revitalising face mask, you need a pharmacy or eczane .

Eczanesi are more difficult to come by. That’s because there are no chain pharmacies in Turkey. All pharmacies are small and owner-operated by a pharmacist – essentially mom-and-pop shops. You won’t find them in malls, only on the streets. Look for the ‘eczanesi’ sign in the window, and when using Google Maps, search for ‘eczane’ rather than ‘pharmacy’.

Pharmacies are worth hunting down if you need them: Many medicines are freely available in Turkey without a prescription, and prices are almost always cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. You do have to ask around, though, as every pharmacy has different stock and different generic brands. My partner spent several days searching for his medication and after asking at a dozen eczanesi, he finally found what he was looking for at a quarter of the price it is in Georgia.

22. Hand cologne is a thing

Istanbulites were sanitising their hands long before it was cool. The first time we had our hands doused in hand cologne by a friendly waiter, we assumed it was hand sanitiser – but no, this tradition far predates the pandemic.

Kolonya harks back to the days of the Ottoman Empire when a pleasant smelling liquid was sprinkled on guests’ hands as they would enter or exit private homes, hotels or hospitals. Today it’s widely used in restaurants after you pay the check. Some places have a little bottle on the table next to the salt and pepper shakers.

Scented with jasmine, lemon, rosewater or dark spice, a dash of hand cologne leaves your paws smelling fragrant fresh. Unlike hand gel, kolonya is very thin and watery – a little bit goes a long way. And because it’s ethanol-based, it does act as a disinfectant as well.

A bottle of lemon flavoured kolonya hand cologne at a restaurant in Istanbul, Turkey.

23. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for your phone number

Grocery stores, cosmetic stores, clothing shops and pharmacies alike seem to ask customers for a local phone number – I assume for marketing purposes rather than to track or register anything. This happened to us on a daily basis, and the first few times, the language barrier made it very confusing.

If you don’t have a local SIM (and even if you do), you can always say no and the cashier will copy a random number off the back of an old receipt.

24. Don’t stay too close to a mosque if you like to sleep in

Istanbul has its own backing track, and that is the sound of the call to prayer ( ezan ). The rumble of minarets whispering to each other is incredibly stirring – but your opinion might be slightly different if you happen to be laying your head near a mosque’s speakerbox every night.

The call to prayer happens five times a day, starting with the pre-dawn İmsak ( Fajr ), which reverberates around the city some time between 4-6am depending on the time of year. In July, it can be as early as 3.30am, with a second Sunrise ( Güneş ) call around 2 hours later.

With well over 3,000 mosques, you’ll more than likely have at least one or two nearby. If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth scoping out the local mosques and choosing accommodation that’s further than earshot from the nearest minaret.

25. Don’t linger too long at a lokanta

Lokanta are a specific type of Turkish restaurant that serve casual, home-style meals to workers and tradesmen. Every neighbourhood has them, and they are a terrific place to sample salt-of-the-earth Turkish cuisine and soak up a bit of local culture at the same time.

When you sit down at a lokanta, a waiter will come to take your order within seconds. Some are cafeteria style, others are a-la-carte. At the end of the meal, empty plates are spirited away and the table sprayed and wiped just as fast as the food came out. Usually you settle the bill at a cash desk rather than requesting a written check.

It’s easy to overstay your welcome at this type of establishment, where the imperative is to turn tables as quickly as possible. They are perfect when you need a quick bite, but if you want a leisurely meal, choose a different sort of restaurant. Sidewalk meyhanes , for example, are the complete opposite. Serving meze and raki, they are designed for long, lingering lunches.

Wait staff at a meyhane restaurant in Kadikoy, Istanbul.

26. Don’t assume those meze plates are free

It’s normal for wait staff at a meyhane to present you with an attractive tray of small plates before they take your order. Turkish meze includes grilled eggplant with yogurt, fava beans, artichoke, and many, many more delicious bites designed for sharing over a bottle of raki.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming these small side salads are free – they are not. (Sides of chopped onion, herbs and chilli served in smaller silver dishes with kebab, on the other hand, are usually included in the price.)

27. Brace yourself for lots of uphill walking

They don’t call Istanbul the ‘City on Seven Hills’ for nothing. After a few days walking the streets, you might think the ‘city of seven million hills’ is a more apt nickname.

Constantinople was laid out in the image of Rome, which was of course built over a septet of hills. On the ground, it feels like all of Istanbul is rippled, with steep streets and vertiginous staircases at almost every turn. There are many advantages to this city plan, the delightfully sloped houses in Balat for one, and the spectacular city views you get from the higher elevations for another.

Comfy shoes and a whole lot of patience are absolutely essential when exploring Istanbul on foot, where it can literally feel like an uphill battle to get from one place to the next.

There are ways to avoid the slog, including using the funicular railways: Taksim-Kabatas and the historic Tunel that links Karakoy and Beyoglu. The latter is the world’s second-oldest subterranean rail line (after the London Underground) and the oldest still-operating underground funicular in Europe.

Istanbul travel tips to feel like a local

While it takes more than a three or four-day stay to feel like a fully fledged Istanbulite, here are a few little tricks to help you fit in.

28. Dress modestly to blend in

Istanbul is a metropolis through and through, with a liberal dress code to match. Almost anything goes, but I still recommend you cover up for comfort and to fit in with the crowd. Women should try to avoid plunging necklines, revealing fabrics, and very short hemlines.

There are noticeable differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with more modest dress and more hijabs worn in Uskudar compared to Eminonu, for example. Generally speaking, Turkey gets more conservative the further east you go, and this holds true even in the city centre. Keep it in mind if you’re travelling around the country.

One place you definitely must observe the dress code is mosques, where covered arms (to the elbow for men or the wrist for women) and legs (down to the ankles) is required. Women must also cover their hair. Majority of mosques have pull-over muumuus that you can borrow (for free) at the door to fully cover up. Note that there are no dress requirements for young kids.

It’s obligatory to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, so on days when you’re sightseeing, wear kicks that you can easily slip off and on. And if you prefer not to go barefoot, carry a pair of ankle socks in the bottom of your bag. Some mosques provide plastic bags, otherwise you can just leave your shoes outside.

A woman dressed in a cover-up at a mosque in Istanbul.

29. Never skip breakfast…

Breakfast is certainly the most important meal of the day in Turkey. Sunday breakfast is the queen of the morning meals, when the famous kahvalti tabagi ‘spread breakfast’ comes into its own.

On a Sunday, some Istanbulites spend the better part of the day between mid-morning and late afternoon gathered around the breakfast table with friends or family, noshing on an extravagant spread of cheeses, olives, cut vegetables and eggs served with supple somun bread. Kahvalti is a daily occurrence in places like Besiktast ‘Breakfast Street’ and in gourmet cafes such as Van Kahvalti.

If you’re on a tight timeline or a budget, breakfast doesn’t have to be drawn-out or expensive: There are faster and more affordable options, such as a pick-and-choose breakfast at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu, where small plates range from 2-8 TRY each.

Borekcisi (borek bakeries) serve portions of steaming hot filled pastry and chai, or for a simple breakfast snack on the go, grab a simit bagel from a street vendor.

30. …But don’t order coffee first thing

Kahvalti means ‘before coffee’. Breakfast is traditionally accompanied by cay , strong black tea, rather than Turkish coffee. It’s normal to down half a dozen glasses of tea in a single sitting (though two or three is usually enough). Most sit-down kahvalti breakfasts come with two pots of tea.

If you want to do things like a local, save your Türk kahvesi for after lunch and start your morning with cay sade – strong and bitter tea with no sugar – instead.

31. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the bazaar

Haggling is customary and expected at markets in Istanbul and in other commercial settings. You’ll find that most items at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar have a price tag, but for those that don’t (and even for those that do), it’s quite normal to bargain for a better price. This is especially true if you’re buying more than one of something or multiple items from the same vendor. Rule of thumb is to aim for a 35-50% discount on the sticker price.

There are huge mark-ups at the Grand Bazaar, which seems to be almost exclusively the domain of tourists these days. There are local markets and street markets all over Istanbul where you’ll have a better chance of striking gold for a fair figure. Markets are held on different days of the week and following a rotating schedule, so you can always find something on. Popular food and flea markets take place in Karakoy (Tuesdays), Ortakoy (Thursdays), Uskudar (Fridays), and Besiktas (Saturdays).

If you do decide to brave the Grand Bazaar or another historic market in Istanbul, the best advice I’ve heard is to do your shopping in the mid-morning. It’s more likely that vendors have already made a few sales and met their daily commission targets, so there will be less pressure on you.

32. Don’t fall for the ‘shoe cleaner trick’

This one got us good.

One early morning we were walking down an alleyway in Besiktas when we heard a clack on the cobbles and noticed that someone had dropped a wooden shoe brush. Being the saint he is, my partner rushed to pick it up without a second thought and handed it back to the shoe cleaner whose caddy it had tumbled from.

Expressing his profound thanks, the guy promptly took a seat on the curb at our feet and insisted on shaking my husband’s hand in gratitude. That’s when he grabbed him by the wrist in a monkey grip and tried to pull him down for a coerced shoe cleaning. I should mention that he was wearing joggers, not leather shoes!

Neither of us were aware of this common scam at the time, so we thought the whole situation was quite hilarious. The man had a gorgeous smile and was very friendly – we actually gave him credit for this ingenious trick.

Only later when we heard about the scam did we realise what had (almost) happened to us. Ross managed to talk his way out of it, dirty shoes still intact.

We were not mad in the slightest, but it could have been a different story had we actually been talked into handing over cash. Keep an eye out for this trick, especially in touristy areas.

33. Embrace cat culture

There are up to a million cats and kittens living on the streets of Istanbul. Every cafe is a cat cafe, and every corner has its own posse of cute pusses. A picture-perfect clowder of cats lounging on fence posts and chairs like the princes and princesses they are awaits you at every turn.

Similar to street dogs in Georgia , the cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves. We definitely encountered a few fiercer felines on our travels – it’s pretty obvious which cats want pats and which ones need their personal space. They will let you know with a dagger stare or a hiss.

Cat culture can be traced back to Ottoman times, when tabbys helped to quash the city’s mice population. In this respect, cats are an inseparable part of the city’s social fabric.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many cats living rough, especially when they’re not in the best shape. (Though I must say that every cat I met in Istanbul was plump and rosy.) It helps to know that Istanbul (and all of Turkey) has a no-kill, no capture policy.

A cat looking longingly at a tank at a fish market in Uskadar, Istanbul.

34. Brush up on your basic hammam etiquette

Partaking in a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. The hammams have aeons of history and custom attached to them – there are definite dos and don’ts, just as there are with the sulfur baths in Tbilisi . It helps to know how to handle things once the towels come out, lest you embarrass yourself.

Regarding nakedness, men normally strip down to nothing while women wear undies (single-use pairs are supplied by most bathhouses) then don a pestemal towel, which stays wrapped around you for the duration of your stay.

The Turkish-style skin peel/massage ( kese ) can be quite rough on the skin and muscles. The therapist, known as a natir or tellak , will always be of the same gender. It’s customary to tip them 10-20% after your treatment.

For more Turkish hammam hints, see this guide .

More helpful Istanbul tips to make the most of your visit

Finally, here are a handful of practical tips for planning your itinerary and getting the most out of your time in Istanbul.

35. Organise your Istanbul itinerary by neighbourhood/district

Istanbul has 39 districts, each with its own character and appeal. From the Instagrammable houses and antique shops in Balat, to the trendy cafes in Cihangir, the rambunctious fish market in Uskudar to the Ottoman-era mansions in Arnavutkoy , every corner of the city has something incredible up its sleeve.

A great way to organise your time in Istanbul is by planning your movements around the different neighbourhoods. Each one is quite discreet, so you can knock out a to-do list before moving onto the next.

Some neighbourhoods naturally pair together thanks to geography and transport logistics: Galata and Karakoy, Fener and Balat, Uskudar and Kadikoy, Cihangir and Cukurcuma. See my Istanbul 4-day itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your visit by district.

Colourful row houses in Balat, a famous neighbourhood in Istanbul, Turkey.

38. Consider signing up for a food tour

One thing every Istanbul neighbourhood has in common is its never-ending supply of cafes, restaurants and street food vendors. One of the best ways to discover the city – especially if you’re on a tight timeline – is by signing up for a food tour.

I was lucky enough to join Culinary Backstreets’ Born on the Bosphorus tour during my most recent visit to Istanbul. It was one of the highlights of my trip – not only because of the delicious food, but mainly thanks to our incredible guide, Benoit, who over the course of a full day taught me so much about Istanbul’s food and beyond.

The popular Taste of Two Continents tour, with 11 food stops and a Bosphorus ferry crossing, is a good alternative if you’re looking for a half-day experience.

37. Get an early start to beat the crowds

This is particularly important in summer, when the touristy parts of the city get extremely crowded. One of the best ways to avoid long waits at landmarks such as Galata Tower is by waking up early and arriving as doors open.

The metro starts running at 6am – and from Friday evening to Sunday morning public transport operates 24/7 – so there’s no excuse not to get out in the early AM.

Galata Tower, a must-visit in Istanbul for first timers.

38. Invest in a Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass

There is a gamut of different tourist cards and passes available for Istanbul. The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass or the 2-7 day E-Pass is one of the best investments you can make if you plan on doing the rounds through the city’s best museums and big attractions.

The digital pass gives you skip-the-queue access to 10 of the city’s finest cultural institutions, including Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace and the Harem, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum.

Available to purchase online before you arrive, it uses a simple QR code system. Just show your pass on your mobile – no need to print anything.

Only buy the pass if it makes sense for you, though: You have to visit multiple attractions for it to pay off, though the other perks – particularly the ability to skip the ticket line – are invaluable in a sense.

Purchase the official Istanbul E-Pass here via Viator .

39. Check prayer times in advance

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are both active mosques, open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Except during prayer times, that is.

All of Istanbul’s mosques temporarily close to non-Muslim visitors five times a day for a period of about 90 minutes. For the duration of the Congregational Prayers, no tourists are permitted to enter.

It’s imperative to check prayer times in advance. If you show up while prayers are on, you will be met with a long wait outside. Times are signposted at the bigger mosques or you can check online .

The queue to enter the Hagia Sophia gets very long towards the end of the prayer session. The best time to visit is 30-40 minutes before the mosque is scheduled to close. Don’t try to visit on Fridays when the Jumu’ah prayer takes place – this is one of the busiest times, and it’s always crowded and chaotic.

If your Istanbul visit coincides with Ramadan or another Islamic holiday, prayer times might be different and mosques might be closed for longer periods during the day.

A sign in front of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul with opening times for the mosque and closures for daily prayers.

40. Skip the Bosphorus cruise – take advantage of local ferries instead

Some people opt to experience the Bosphorus on board a yacht at sunset with champagne and nibbles. If your budget won’t stretch that far, or you just prefer a local experience, then a ride on the public ferry offers the same ambiance and water views for a fraction of the price.

Hundreds of ferries criss-cross the strait, linking Istanbul’s Asian and European sides. The most scenic ferry routes include Besiktas to Kadikoy, Karakoy to Uskudar, and Karakoy to Kadikoy. Some boats go up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea, and others head in the opposite direction towards the Princes’ Islands.

Bring a simit bagel to snack on (and to lure seagulls in for photos), or order a tulip-shaped glass of tea from one of the roving vendors on board.

A ferry on the Bosphorus in Istanbul glides past a beautiful mosque.

41. Don’t miss the sunset from Galata Bridge

There is only one way to end a day in Istanbul in my opinion, and that’s by watching the sun go down from Galata Bridge. It might be touristy as heck, but there’s a good reason why this is such a popular spot. Views of the glittering water and intertwining boats, mosque minarets silhouetted against a dusky blue sky framed by fishermen casting their lines off the edge of the bridge, are absolute gold.

I recommend finding a spot to stand on the western side of the bridge, above the area where the Karakoy ferry docks. Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset for the best light.

For the perfect Istanbul photo, wait patiently for the garbage truck to come down the street and dump its load in the bins near the ferry terminal – this sends the seagulls into a frenzy, and they fill the skies with their spinning and diving for a good 15 minutes.

42. ‘Authentic’ Whirling Dervish ceremonies still exist – here’s how to find one

Speaking of Istanbul must-dos: A Whirling Dervish show is a bucket-list item for many. I was warned that all Mevlevi Sema ceremonies had become commercialised and ‘spoiled’ by tourists to the point where they just weren’t worth pursuing any more. So I made it my mission to find a real, ‘authentic’ Sema ritual in Istanbul, and I’m happy to say that I eventually did.

Get all the details about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul in this guide .

A man films Dervishes at a traditional Sema ceremony at a local mosque in Istanbul, Turkey.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

1-4 day Istanbul itinerary
Istanbul travel budget
The ultimate guide to eating out in Istanbul
Tips for visiting Galata Tower for Istanbul city views
The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
Guide to Arnavutkoy, Istanbul’s most beautiful district
The best places to visit in Turkey
Turkey in winter: Where to go plus travel tips

12 Comments

Detailed tips are super helpful, especially about the best time to visit and the ins and outs of public transport.

Thank you. Right now in Turkey with wife and kids. Following your steps and recommendations. Just one thing: booking asked for a price but the hotel converted the price to Liras and charged me much more for exactly the same booking and service! Thank you again,

I love your travel blog! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs make me feel like I’m right there with you. It’s inspiring to see someone embracing adventure and exploring new cultures. Keep the travel stories coming!

Excellent article and links for further information. I am planning a trip to Turkey in September with my wife and your articles a great start and support. Great job! Alejandro

This is very, very helpful. Thank you so much.

Early in your article you indicated that Booking.com does not work in Turkey, yet in the section, entitled “Turkey Essentials”, you direct us to that site for Hotels. Maybe I am missing something, but that appears to be contradictory. I found the article very helpful…..Thanks for the information.

Hi JB – I still recommend using Booking, only you have to reserve from outside of Turkey ie. before you arrive.

Thanks so much, this was really helpful. Lots of good to know stuff that I didn’t find mentioned elsewhere

it was very helpful thank you

Ha, I made the same mistake again and didn’t read through your info thoroughly. In Georgia, I paid more than I needed to for a SIM at the airport and this time, I could have saved a few lira on a bank withdrawal in Istanbul.

Already appreciating the smiles and kindness in Istanbul very much.

Love your work Emily.

Perhaps it’s different for Australian passport holders, but I found the VOA to be a better deal than the eVisa for Americans. Our eVisas were fast and easy to get, but cost $50 plus a 2 dollar service fee. We got them before traveling to Turkey last year, but went twice to make them a better value. This past month we got VOA (no lines) and paid 25 euros each. Both are valid for 6 months. Plus you get a little visa stamp in your passport!

Thanks Owen for the info – you’re right, VOA is more affordable for US passport holders, but not for us Aussies unfortunately! I would have loved a visa stamp. I’ll update that now. Cheers!

When is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Feb 3, 2023 • 4 min read

Istanbul bustles throughout the year, though its mood can change dramatically with the seasons © Getty Images/ EyeEm

There’s rarely a dull moment in vibrant Istanbul . The city's historic attractions can be appreciated any time of year, but its vibe does change dramatically with the seasons, from wet and moody winters to sunny and sticky summers – and accommodation prices vary accordingly.

When planning a trip, it’s worth noting the upcoming dates of the two biggest Muslim holidays, Ramazan Bayramı (Ramadan, or Eid Al Fitr) and Kurban Bayramı (Eid Al Adha), which shift by about 10 days each year. Both are big travel periods in Turkey, comparable to Thanksgiving or Christmas in the United States, with corresponding effects on costs, crowds and vacation-related closures. Here are our picks for the best times to enjoy Turkey’s largest city.

Busy restaurant and bar scene at night in Taksim, Istanbul, Turkey on July 25, 2007. Taksim is a popular destination for tourists and locals of Istanbul. 26882794 bar, barcelona, beer, busy, capital, city, citylife, crowd, cuisine, customers, eat, enjoy, europe, food, fun, holiday, hot, island, istanbul, istiklal, latin, life, market, mediterranean, men, night, nightlife, noisy, outdoor, outside, pedestrian, people, person, restaurant, sitting, south, street, summer, table, taksim, tapas, terrace, travel,

June to August is best for outdoor dining and concerts in Istanbul

Summer is peak tourism season in Istanbul. Many residents decamp for vacation or family homes elsewhere in Turkey, so costs for accommodations can be high and lines long at major attractions. The weather is hot and humid, but the sun sparkling off the Bosphorus is glorious, and a slew of outdoor seating at cafes, restaurants and bars makes for a lively urban scene. Concerts, festivals and other events are staged in the open air too.

The shoulder season is best for sightseeing and cultural events

The long, mostly pleasant spring and fall seasons (March to May and September to November ) are ideal for seeing the sights and wandering the neighborhoods of Istanbul, a city that rewards exploration by foot. There's a drop off in tourist crowds, and local urban life is in full swing, including a busy calendar of arts and cultural events.

Istanbul in December? Winter is ideal for travel on a budget

The gray, rainy and surprisingly chilly winter months aren’t the most appealing time to visit Istanbul, though they do lend the city a certain romantically melancholy mood. On the plus side, it won’t be difficult or expensive to find accommodations, and Istanbul’s many museums, mosques and other sights provide plenty of indoor activities.

Pedestrians outside of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums on a cloudy day

Istanbul by month

The start of the year in Istanbul is usually quiet and cold with a chance of snow, though there’s always plenty of hot tea around to warm you up. Keep an eye out for salep , a creamy, cinnamon-topped hot drink served mainly in winter.

Key events: Greek Orthodox Epiphany

The winds off the Bosphorus are still bracing, but the meyhanes (taverns) are cozy, and their tables continue to be filled with the winter’s bounty of fresh fish.

Key events: Baklahorani (Tatavla Festivali)

The Newroz festival marks the beginning of spring and the Kurdish (and Persian) new year, and indeed, things are starting to wake up in Istanbul in March, with warmer days and livelier nights.

Key events: Newroz (Nevruz), 19th Akbank Short Film Festival

Tulips planted in parks across the city come into bloom, and the fair weather starts luring people outside, while the annual film festival draws them into cinemas as well.

Key events: Tulip Festival (Lale Festivali), 42nd Istanbul Film Festival, Sonar Istanbul

Young beautiful muslim woman posing in courtyard of Suleymaniye mosque in Istanbul, Turkey

Warm and sunny but not yet sweltering, May is an ideal time to visit Istanbul, with outdoor eating and drinking coming into full swing.

Key events: Hıdrellez, Chill-Out Festival

The summer festival season begins with the classical-heavy Istanbul Music Festival. Weekends see droves of locals heading to the Princes’ Islands, the Belgrad Forest, and parks and picnic areas around the city.

Key events: Istanbul Music Festival

As the temperatures rise, those who can escape the city while the tourists pour in. Music festivals are still kicking, and rooftop bars and Bosphorus-side cafes are the place to be.

Key events: Istanbul Jazz Festival, Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race, Istanbul Opera Festival

A ferry ride is the best – and cheapest – way to get a reprieve from Istanbul’s heat and humidity, which are starting to feel oppressive.

The start of the school year is also when Istanbul’s cultural calendar begins to get crowded again, especially in the alternating years when the Istanbul Biennial is held. Just about every gallery, museum and arts organization in the city takes that as an opportunity to open its own new exhibits and events as well.

Key events: Istanbul Biennial, XJazz Festival, Bosphorus Cup Istanbul Regatta

October’s still generally clement weather, with cooler evenings, means it’s the last hurrah of the year for most outdoor activities.

Key events: Akbank Jazz Festival, Istanbul Design Biennial, Filmekimi, Republic Day, Mamut Art Project, 212 Photography Festival

November in Istanbul is not totally devoid of nice days, but you may be happy to see the ever-present şemsiye (umbrella) sellers who pop up – seemingly out of nowhere – at the first sign of rain.

Key events: Istanbul Marathon, Istanbul Theater Festival, Istanbul Puppet Festival

Istanbul’s many museums welcome visitors in from the cold, as do evenings by the hot grill of an ocakbaşı , a traditional type of restaurant serving hearty plates of grilled meats. Winter is also a great time of year for a visit to a steamy hammam, or Turkish bath.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated February 2023

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Top 10 Things to Do Turkey in September: Travel Tips, Weather & Events

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LOOKING FOR WHAT TO DO IN TURKEY IN SEPTEMBER?

Turkey in September is when you see a break in the summer humidity and fewer travelers, making it a great time to plan a trip to Turkey. September ushers in fall and all that it has to offer for guests to Turkey. With events like Grape Harvest Festivals, Coffee Festivals, and Art Festivals there’s plenty to do in addition to the classics.

Read on to learn more about weather, events, what to do, and travel tips for your Turkey itinerary in September.

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Top 10 Things to Do in Turkey in September

1. bosphorus cruise in istanbul.

September is the perfect month to take to the water for a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul . A private cruise to enjoy the Istanbul skyline along with the views of the Ottoman palaces and mansions from the 19th & 20 th centuries.

📍 Book a Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

2. cappadocia hiking and hot air balloon ride.

September in Cappadocia is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. With cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect time to take to the many hiking trails through the valleys to explore the landscapes, fairy chimneys, and cave churches. If you take a hot air balloon ride , be sure to dress in layers as the temps will be cooler in the early morning at take-off.

📍 Book a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

3. turkish coast beach days.

Visit the Turkish Coast in September to skip the crowds of the previous high season months of July and August. In September in Turkey on the beach , you’ll have less humidity but still have the warm temperatures to enjoy the water and plentiful sunshine. Not only can you enjoy the beach, take a boat tour to enjoy snorkeling and swimming on the coast.

If the beach isn’t your thing, you can visit local ruins like Aspendos , Termessos , or Perge .

4. Hike the Lycian Way

The ancient Lycian Way runs from Fethiye to Antalya on the Mediterranean coast . You can take the month to get outside and hike the entire trail, or you can choose a few sections to hike. The drop in humidity makes the temperatures perfect for hiking the trail with your family.

5. Visit Turkish Wineries

September is the largest month for grape harvesting in Turkey. Take a local wine tour in the most popular wine regions of Turkey in the Aegean, Mediterranean & Cappadocia. You’ll find grape harvesting festivals in the famous wine-making areas of Turkey. Most festivals include music and activities, tastings, and local vendors selling their handicrafts. Continue reading for a list of the most popular harvest festivals in Turkey.

📍Request Wine Tour Itinerary & Pricing

6. explore the ancient city of ephesus.

Visiting the Ancient City of Ephesus in September provides a unique experience of Turkey’s rich history. As you walk in the same paths where Apostle Paul and John once trod, you’ll feel like a time traveler transported back to Roman antiquity. From the awe-inspiring monuments like the colossal Great Theatre and the beautiful Celsus Library to the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, Ephesus offers a journey through time. It’s an absolute must-visit for history buffs and explorers.

📍 Book an Ephesus Tour

7. take a tour of the 7 churches of revelation.

Embark on a September tour to explore Turkey’s Seven Churches of Revelation . Discover historic Christian landmarks amidst the pleasant autumn climate. This Bible-oriented adventure takes you to ancient ruins and landmarks in Pergamum, Thyatira, and Laodicea. Visit the dramatic Acropolis of Pergamum, see the Altar of Zeus, and wander among the marble columns of the Temple of Trajan.

The tour also includes the historically rich cities of Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Experience Hierapolis and explore the ancient city of Ephesus with the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis. Complete your journey with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary.

📍 Request Itinerary & Pricing

8. canyoning at goynuk canyon in antalya.

Experience the thrill of canyoning at Goynuk Canyon in Antalya. Goynuk Canyon is one of our family’s favorite activities with the kids. It’s the perfect adventure for the September weather on the Turkish coast. Explore the natural pools and ponds along the canyon road, and take a refreshing swim in the canyon, hiking back to a beautiful waterfall.

9. Beach Day at Oludeniz Beach in Fethiye

Spend an unforgettable day at Oludeniz Beach in Fethiye, known for its stunning blue lagoon and soft white sand. In the warm September climate, take to the skies with paragliding for panoramic views of Turkey’s exquisite scenery. Enjoy water sports or rent paddle boats to explore the shore’s crystal clear waters. Close the day by relaxing on the beach at this breathtaking destination.

10. Visit Gallipoli – the WWI & Memorial Site

A visit to Gallipoli in September offers a moving journey through history. The pleasant autumn weather allows a comfortable exploration of this significant World War I site.

Start at Brighton Beach, the intended landing place on April 25th. Then, proceed to ANZAC Cove, the actual site of the first landing and the main base for the Allied troops. Don’t miss the Ariburnu Cemetery at the northern tip of ANZAC Cove, a solemn spot to honor the fallen.

Visit the Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Johnston’s Jolly as well. Finally, conclude your tour at the 57th Regiment Turkish Memorial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sacrifices made here.

Next, learn about the best places to go in Turkey in September.

📍 Book a Gallipoli Day Tour

Best places to go.

Turkey offers a wide range of beautiful destinations to explore in September. In Istanbul , the largest city, you can immerse yourself in history and culture with iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, as well as the vibrant Grand Bazaar.

For a unique experience, visit Cappadocia with its stunning rock formations and underground cities, best enjoyed with a sunrise hot air balloon ride.

If you’re looking for idyllic beaches and ancient ruins, visit Antalya and the Mediterranean Coast, known for their turquoise waters and archaeological wonders.

The ancient city of Ephesus and the breathtaking Pamukkale terraces offer a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Lastly, explore the Aegean Sea, where olive groves meet blue seas with charming villages to explore.

Next, we’ll look at some of the favorite events in September in Turkey.

September Events

Grape harvesting festivals.

The most popular grape harvesting festivals in Turkey happen from September through October . Many of the festivals include music concerts, vendors selling homemade jams and jewelry, and other local products. Make sure to book your hotels early if you’re planning on attending the grape harvesting festivals, as the local hotels will fill up.

Bozcaada Culture, Art and Vintage Grape Harvest Festival
Denizli Grape Harvest Festival
Elazig Grape Harvest Festival
Gokceaalan Grape Festival

International Avanos World Dance Festival

See performers from all over the world promote their traditional dance, culture, and heritage through dance at the International Avanos World Dance Festival in September. Also, you can make a stop at a local pottery making working shop for a hands-on experience.

Istanbul Coffee Festival

The Istanbul Coffee Festival brings coffee from all over the world for coffee lovers to taste. The coffee festival is 4 days long in September. It’s held close to Taksim Square in Kucuk Ciftlik Park in Istanbul. A family-friendly event with coffee workshops, tastings, seminars, and competitions.

International Istanbul Biennial Art Festival

Every year the Istanbul Foundation for Art and Culture hosts the Istanbul Biennial, setting up art exhibits in various Istanbul neighborhoods promoting diversity, community, co-creation and collaboration. Get more information on the Art Festival.

Izmir International Fair

Food Fest Antalya

Head down to Karaalioglu Park in the Antalya city center to enjoy three 3 days of food at Food Fest Antalya . The park is right on the cliffs next to Kale Ici, making it easy to get to and walk around the for the festival.

Weather in Turkey in September

In September, the temperatures are still warm making it an ideal time to visit with fewer crowds. On the Turkish coast, the sea is still warm and perfect for swimming. You’ll see slightly cooler temperatures from the hot summer months as you move into mid to late September. In late September in Istanbul, the weather can be somewhat unpredictable with some chances of rain. September is a great time to visit Turkey since the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring the cities on foot.

Average Temperatures in September in Turkey

Marmara region.

Istanbul , Edirne, Canakkale, Bursa

17°C – 24° C | 63° F – 75° F

Central Turkey

Cappadocia , Ankara, Konya 9° C – 27° C | 55° F – 80° F

Mediterranean Coast

Antalya , Kas , Fethiye 20° C – 32° C | 68° F – 89° F

Aegean Coast

Kusadasi, Ephesus , Pamukkale , Bodrum 20° C – 32° C | 68° F – 89° F

Southeast Turkey

Gaziantep, Mardin, Mt. Nemrut 20° C – 35° C | 65° F – 95° F

Eastern Turkey

Van, Mt. Ararat, Kars 20° C – 26° C | 68°F – 79° F

Trabzon, Rize, Samsun 18°C – 24°C | 64°F – 75°F

Next, we’ll look at what to pack to visit Turkey in September.

What to Pack for Turkey in September

Layers are key when packing for Turkey in September. You may see cooler evenings and mornings later in the month and still have nice warm days. If you go to the coast, you’ll still be able to enjoy warm beach days, so beach wear is a must. Following are the must-have items to pack for a trip to Turkey in September:

Tshirts & Long Sleeve Shirts for layering
Shorts for daytime or travel to the coast
Pants for evenings later in September when it gets cooler
Light Jacket for early mornings and evenings
Umbrella for the unpredictable weather in Istanbul in mid to late September
Scarf for layering in the evenings or visiting religious sites.
Swimsuit for beach days

Also, don’t miss our Turkey Packing Guide for everything to include on your packing list.

Final Thoughts on September in Turkey

We love traveling with family in Turkey in September and always look forward to traveling in the fall. The weather is a little cooler and pleasant, making it the perfect time to get outside and explore.

Check out other months to travel in Turkey

Turkey in October
Turkey in November
Turkey in December

Dania Demirci is your go-to travel expert for exploring Turkey and co-founder of Adventurefolio.com. With her extensive knowledge and personal experiences, Dania helps fellow travelers create the ultimate Turkish itineraries. From hidden gems to must-visit spots, she shares practical tips to empower you to confidently explore Turkey.

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Turkey in September: The Best Things to Do and See

January 23, 2024

Turkey is home to an assortment of captivating historic sites, lively cities, and natural wonders. The country straddles two continents and is made up of a myriad of different terrains, climates, and series of things to see and do.

To experience Turkey to its fullest potential, it’s recommended to plan on spending time outdoors . Summertime may sound like the logical time to travel to Turkey, but this would be a rookie mistake. Once again, shoulder season proves to be the ideal time to travel.

In this guide, discover why September in Turkey is the best time to see the country’s top destinations and why you shouldn’t choose any other month to go!

Cheaper Accommodation

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Why Is September the Best Time to Visit Turkey?

Most people are privy to the fact that traveling outside of summer months will always be cheaper. It can depend on the location, but most of the time, fall and spring are the best months to travel if you’re looking for a good value . Travelers will notice that the most amount of money saved is with accommodation.

Planning a trip to Turkey in September gives you the opportunity to grab the hotel deals that are just beginning to emerge after a busy summer. As the summer holiday family crowds diminish, accommodations need to keep the momentum going and will discount their rooms to keep them full.

Have your eyes set on a fancy cave hotel in Cappadocia? Or the penthouse apartment in Istanbul with a view of the skyline? Both are guaranteed to be cheaper in September, particularly late September .

Turkey is becoming increasingly more favoured as both an alternative to popular countries like Greece and as an adventure travel destination. Certain places in Turkey are, in fact, overrun by tourists if you don’t visit during the right time .

Cappadocia, for example, is the least hidden region of Turkey and experiences tour buses on a daily basis. Although it’s unlikely to completely steer clear of running into fellow travelers, it is a substantially calmer place from September – November.

Big cities like Istanbul and the beautiful Turkish Riviera are also packed during the summer months. If photography is one of your main reasons for a trip to Turkey, visiting in September will ensure that not all of your shots are ruined by crowds.

Booking activities such as guided tours of historic landmarks or a boat ride along the coast can also become much easier to accomplish in September . Although there are a ton of places in Turkey that are hidden gems, it’s possible to face “sold out” scenarios and long lines for attractions if you’re visiting the main sites.

It’s impossible to define Turkey by one climate but the reason why September in Turkey is so lovely is the lack of extremities. Somehow, the weather in Turkey during the months of September maintains a level of normalcy that happens to be perfect for visitors, all across the country. September weather brings equally pleasant temperatures for exploring cities and archaeological sites as it does for sunbathing along the riviera or hiking the Taurus Mountains.

The Weather Climate of Turkey

The answer to this question widely depends on where in Turkey you are going. It is a very large country with many regions, provinces, terrains, and geological features. Although it’s tough to pinpoint if Turkey is hot in September, it is easier to note that it’s generally not cold . There is the exception of some major mountain peaks but for the standard vacation to Turkey, you can expect to be comfortably warm during a September trip.

Some cities and parts are hotter than others. For example, the capital city of Ankara is located inland and experiences a warm climate with highs of 26°C (80°F) in September . On the opposite side of the country, temperatures in the city of Kars only reach a high of 22°C (73°F) . Then, there’s the southern coastal city of Antalya that regularly sees peaks over 80°F .

If you are researching a trip to Turkey in September, you may likely want to know if it’s a suitable month for visiting beaches. In this case, yes, Turkey is perfectly hot enough for swimming in the sea during the month of September.

Cappadocia’s climate resembles a desert, one which is hot in the summer but not a stranger to snow in the winter. September in Cappadocia is heavenly, with just the right amount of warmth during the day for exploring outdoors. Average daytime temperatures in Cappadocia are usually around 23°C (75°F) .

The chilly evenings are just another excuse to book a cozy cave hotel to stay warm in. It’s important to be mindful of the temperatures below 10°C (50°F) if you’re planning on waking up early to see the hot air balloons.

For exploring a bustling city like Istanbul, September weather could not be any more perfect. The daytime temperatures rarely exceed 25°C (78°F) and don’t usually drop below 18°C (65°F) during an average year. Walking, sightseeing, and conquering the mild hills of Istanbul are very comfortable activities in September. Even if the temperature is on the lower end, you at least do not have to worry about potential rainfall. Within September, it only rains an average of seven days .

Unless you are planning on excessively hiking tall mountains, it’s not necessary to pack a heavy coat when visiting Turkey in September. For a typical trip of exploring major landmarks, cities, and the coastline, these are the essentials you must include.

Tops that cover shoulders and do not expose your midsection
Pants, skirts or dresses that cover your knees
Light multipurpose scarf
Comfortable shoes for walking
Denim jacket (or similar) for chilly evenings
Light windbreaker or rain jacket
Hiking outfit

Yes, traveling to Turkey in September will eliminate the summer crowds at popular destinations. No, it does not mean you will be the only one visiting Turkey.

Choosing to travel in September will mean one major thing – there will be a lack of families with children . Most children return to school in September, which means one demographic of tourists is eliminated.

This is definitely better than nothing, but you should not expect Turkey to be free of all other visitors just because it’s September. Realistically, you should prepare for only a slightly noticeable difference if you are visiting places like Istanbul or Cappadocia . These two destinations in Turkey don’t experience a substantial decline in tourism until winter time .

Inland regions, the mountain ranges, and even the coast are visibly quieter, especially in the second half of September. Beaches are not packed from one end to another , parking lots aren’t filled, and attractions aren’t sold out.

Top Places to Visit in Turkey in September

The vibrant city of Istanbul is one of the most populated cities in the entire world. Its activity, energy, and constant motion are unlike any other big city in Europe. When you add the influx of tourists to the already existing population, Istanbul can become overwhelming.

Additionally, there’s nothing worse than walking through a big city in the peak of summer heat . Conquering the many kilometers on foot in Istanbul is much more enjoyable during cooler autumn or spring months.

The city is a destination year-round, but the more you can avoid it during the summer months, the more you’re able to see. Queues don’t disappear entirely in September, but top sites like the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, and the Blue Mosque become much more manageable for visitors. Booking tours also becomes more attainable, and you can plan to actually see the interior of Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and take your time touring the Topkapi Palace.

Although Turkey is overall a very affordable country for travelers, Istanbul accommodation is competitive. You’ll undoubtedly find centrally located apartments and hotels at 10-20% cheaper prices during September compared to July or August.

Cappadocia is a semi-arid region, nearly smack dab in the middle of Turkey. It’s not quite a full-blown desert by technical definition, but by feel, look, and climate, it’s very desert-like . The rocky region is situated on a high plateau which remains hot and dry during the summer.

The charm of Cappadocia is defined by its natural landscape, so you’ll want to plan a trip where you spend time outdoors. Given the fact that visiting snowy Cappadocia in winter isn’t for everyone, most tourists will head to Cappadocia in the summer. The summer months may sound like the logical time to visit an outdoor destination, but in the case of Cappadocia, fall is more preferable.

The region is filled with hiking paths, scenic viewpoints, and open-air museums, all of which will feel excruciating under a hot summer sun if you visit during June – August. September in Cappadocia is the perfect sweet spot for cooler daytime temperatures that are ideal for exploring .

The Turkish Riviera, commonly known as The Turquoise Coast, is an extraordinary stretch of beaches and dreamy water on the southern coast of the country. Its official border lines are a bit blurry, but an easy way to define the Turquoise Coast is the distance between Bodrum and Antalya. It is also home to Fethiye, one of the most famous spots along Turkey’s coastline.

A paradise-like landscape comprises the Turkish Riviera and is a popular choice for yachting, snorkeling, and beachgoers . The Turquoise Coast is a perfect beach vacation for various types of travellers. There are wild areas such as the Datça peninsula, bustling seafront towns like Kaş, and the adventurous Dalaman River that flows into the Mediterranean Sea.

Europe has no shortage of incredible islands and coastlines with amazing beaches, but the Turkish Riviera is comparatively undiscovered . By visiting Turkey in September, you’ll be able to experience the already unspoiled beaches with the possibility of finding one all to yourself.

Antalya sits on the Mediterranean Sea and is the fifth largest city in Turkey. It is a major hub for summer tourism and incredibly busy during the summer months. The city consists of everything in one package. It’s a big city with endless amenities, beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, activities for children, and an exciting nightlife. For the most well-rounded warm-weather vacation , Antalya checks off all the boxes.

The city consistently welcomes tourists seeking a beach holiday but this isn’t limited to summer months. Thanks to its geographical location along the Mediterranean, the climate’s warm temperatures extend through October . Spending September in Antalya is ideal for people who are looking to sunbathe, water ski, go paragliding or hit the water park with the kids without a swarm of tourists.

Antalya is also one of the most historically rich cities in Turkey. Once a prominent Roman seaport, the many remnants of ancient life in Antalya are some of the city’s most alluring features.

The northern section of Turkey consists of the Black Sea Region. Named after its geographical positioning along the Black Sea, it’s an area of Turkey that’s nowhere near as frequented as the southern coastline. The region is home to the Rize Province, an incredible terrain comprised of rolling green hills used for tea production. Tea cultivation is the Black Sea Region’s leading force behind their economy, with Rize tea being the most commonly consumed in Turkey.

The Black Sea Region of Turkey is the best area to visit for adventure travelers and those looking to get off the grid . The majority of accommodation types in this region are bungalows, cabins, and tiny homes, usually nestled in the steep hills. Combined with the fairytale-like landscape of lush greenery and towering mountain peaks, it’s one of the most underrated destinations in Turkey for nature lovers .

Spending September in the Black Sea Region is ideal for anyone looking to accomplish a few mountain hikes while still enjoying a swim in the Black Sea .

Amazing Things to Do in Turkey in September

Regardless of where you travel to, top attractions in any city are likely the most popular for a reason. Unfortunately, everyone wants to see what all the fuss is about! The top landmarks in Istanbul are no different and can get severely overcrowded during peak travel season.

Places like the Grand Bazaar can become impossible to walk through, and you may end up waiting for over an hour to step inside the Blue Mosque. But, this doesn’t have to be the case if you visit Turkey in September. On top of this, make an effort to step into the city a little earlier in the day and you’ll be shocked at how different the city can feel.

The must-see places in Istanbul are always going to be frequented, but by visiting during shoulder or off-season, you have a chance to avoid long lines and bumping shoulders with everyone around you . The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Basilica Cistern are just a few of Istanbul’s landmarks that are better seen in September without the chaos of summer.

Booking a tour in September for any of the most admired activities in Istanbul, means you’ll likely join a smaller group. Thus, leaving you not lost in the shuffle and allow you to actually hear and see what your tour guide is saying and pointing at.

Many tourists flock to Cappadocia just for the experience of hot air ballooning over the extraterrestrial countryside. Cappadocia is truly one of a kind and extraordinary to see in person, and its popular hot air balloon rides come at a price. The cost of a hot air balloon during peak season is easily $200+ per person, and competition for availability is high.

There are multiple tour buses that stop in Cappadocia on a normal basis, which means your hot air balloon can quickly turn into a commute on the metro when there are crowds. It make things a little less magical, don’t you think?

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia during the month of September not only ensures a higher chance of a less crowded balloon ride, it’s also going to be slightly cheaper. Pricing doesn’t vary drastically, but there are balloon operators that provide off-season pricing . Every little discount counts.

Alternatively, other activities such as horseback riding and ATV tours are just as memorable at a fraction of a hot air balloon ride’s cost. These outdoor activities are particularly more delightful to book for the fall months in Cappadocia instead of on a hot summer day.

The natural characteristics of the Black Sea Region and the Kaçkar Mountains are undeniably stunning. If you’re seeking adventure travel or you are an outdoor enthusiast visiting Turkey, this is one place you should not miss.

Hiking, trekking, and wild camping in Turkey are beautiful during the month of September. Not to mention, the weather is ideal for spending time outdoors without getting scorched by the August sun .

The Kaçkar Mountain range is a friendly place for backpackers as there are mountain huts, pensions and refuges placed throughout the hiking trails. The nature wonderland is full of surprises ranging from rural villages tucked away in the plateaus, raging waterfalls, and countless panoramic views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Some of the most magnificent sites in the Kaçkar Mountains include:

Palovit Waterfall (location here )
Palovit Yaylası (location here )
Zil Castle (location here )
Badara Yaylası (location here )
Pokut Yaylası (location here )

It may not sound intuitive at first, but going to Turkey in September is the best time to experience its many beaches. There aren’t too many places that can say the same, but the beach season in Turkey can even stretch throughout October .

There are plenty of areas along the Turkish Riviera that are equipped with developed resorts, beach clubs, and the ultimate summer holiday amenities. The seaside towns of Kaş, Fethiye, Göcek, and Marmaris are a few of the crowd favorites. They are not just excellent places to stay but are also within close proximity to an abundance of picture-perfect beaches.

For travelers who have an intrepid taste for travel, the Datça peninsula is much more unassuming and off the beaten track. Its landscape is composed of rugged hills, small inlets, and pristine water. It is often the location for yachts and sail boats parked in the bays as well as camper vans who sleep on the beaches.

Whichever style of a seaside vacation suits you best, it is certain that you’ll experience a calmer time at the beach in September compared to July or August. Although the people have started to fade away, the warm temperatures and sun are very much still present in Turkey in September.

There are a lot of great beaches, sites, and things to do directly in Antalya. However, if you get the chance, embarking on a tour of the Antalya area by sea provides a completely different perspective on the great coastal city.

One section of Antalya sits entirely on a cliff and by boat, you can actually visit some of the secluded small inlets beneath the city. Antalya’s coast is also made famous by the Duden Waterfalls. From land, you cannot properly witness the waterfalls in all its glory so experiencing a frontal view of it from a boat is worth the trip alone.

Chartering a boat, booking a private yacht , or even joining a group tour from Antalya at a discounted price i s one of the top activities to take advantage of while visiting Turkey in September. The city is flooded with vacationers in the summer, which means boat rental agencies are charging higher prices simply due to the demand. As the tourists fade, opportunities to book a boat tour at affordable prices become available.

Boat rides have been one of those things that we’ve found to always be worth the extra spend while travelling.

Turkey has an immensely colorful past. Its history is deep, complex, and significant. Although the Turkey that we know today was only established in 1923, its geographical location has been influenced by preceding and various empires. Before the Ottoman Empire and Byzantine Empire, the Eastern Roman Empire even left its mark on modern-day Turkey.

Progressions, defeats, and falls, Turkey has experienced them all. Naturally, with such a history, come some of the most impressive and well preserved ancient sites and landmarks you’ll find in Europe. The vast selection is one thing, but the diversity in era, heritage, and culture is another.

Among the Ancient Greek ruins, mythical ancient cities like Troy and a tomb of a Greco-Iranian king, you’ll also come across remnants of the Lycian Civilization. Back then, Lycia was a civilization along the southern coast of Turkey, notably in the mountains and near present-day Antalya. The Lycian rock tombs are one of the most distinct types of ancient sites in Turkey and can be found throughout the Anatolia region.

One thing that we admired about Turkey is how accessible some of its historic sights were to the public. Of course, there are outdoor museums where landmarks are preserved and you must pay an admission fee to enter. On the other hand, you’ll also find bits and pieces of the Ottoman Empire laying around in plain sight. All it takes is a good hike to reach them (like Lycian Rock Tombs in Kaş )!

People who are keen on visiting popular archaeological sites should definitely keep away from Turkey in the summer and skip the lines by visiting in September or October instead.

There are many reasons to love Turkey in September, and in general. But one of the best excuses to run to Turkey during shoulder season are the incredible deals on hotels and Airbnbs.

We gravitate towards any destination that’s a good value, and Turkey is, to date, still one of the least expensive places we’ve visited. The opportunity to stay at a luxury stay for a fraction of the price is usually possible even during peak season, but when you visit Turkey during shoulder or off-season, the deals get even better.

Collectively, we spent over a month in Turkey and set a budget of €50 or less per night. During our time along the Turkish Riviera, we chose to splurge on an entire home with a private pool in the hills above Kaş. With our own private oasis and a view of a Greek island in the distance, the stay was unbelievable. Would you believe us if we said it only costed €100/night?!

Izmir International Fair (located in İzmir )
Ürgüp Grape Harvest Festival (located in the Cappadocia region)
International Avanos Tourism and Craft Festival (located in the Cappadocia region)
Antalya Akra Jazz Festival (located in Antalya )
Lycian Culture and Art Festival of Kas (located in Kaş )
Gaming Festival (located in Istanbul )

If you were to visit the Amalfi Coast during shoulder season, the last week of September is commonly the cutoff for seasonal restaurants, shops, and even some hotels. Luckily, the same doesn’t apply for Turkey. In fact, we rarely noticed any businesses shutting down completely, even when our visit rolled into the month of October.

You can expect all major cities in Turkey to be fully operational year-round . The only time you may want to be sensitive to shoulder-season opening hours is when visiting coastal destinations. Admired destinations like Fethiye or Bodrum are not much of an issue, but quieter places like the Datça peninsula may experience closures when it comes to accommodation and restaurants.

When we visited smaller villages, particularly in rural parts of Turkey, everything was functioning as normal in the month of September and October. This is largely due to the fact that life simply goes on when tourists aren’t expected.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Things to do in Istanbul in September

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Looking for a different month?

September is a great time to visit Istanbul . The weather is usually pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 66—79°F (19—26°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Istanbul during this time. Some of our top recommendations: explore the Princes' Islands by ferry, visit the Istanbul Biennial, visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, and more!

Istanbul has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your September trip to Istanbul. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to September. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Istanbul in September. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout September, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Experiences
Weather and what to wear
Attractions

Best events and things to do in Istanbul in September

Top experiences in september, explore the princes' islands by ferry, visit the istanbul biennial, visit the istanbul modern art museum, go on a bosphorus cruise at sunset, take a hot air balloon ride over cappadocia, holidays in istanbul in september.

There are no holidays in Istanbul in September

Other notable holidays

Victory Day ( August 30 )
Republic Day ( October 28 — 29 )
Ataturk Commemoration Day ( November 10 )
New Year's Eve ( December 31 )
New Year's Day ( January 1 )
Ramadan Start ( March 1 )
Ramadan Feast Eve ( March 29 )
Ramadan Feast ( March 30 — April 1 )
National Sovereignty and Children's Day ( April 23 )
Labor and Solidarity Day ( May 1 )
Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day ( May 19 )
Sacrifice Feast Eve ( June 5 )
Sacrifice Feast ( June 6 — 9 )
Democracy and National Unity Day ( July 15 )
Weather in Istanbul in September

Temperatures on an average day in Istanbul in September

The average temperature in Istanbul in September for a typical day ranges from a high of 79°F (26°C) to a low of 66°F (19°C). Some would describe it as pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Istanbul , August, has days with highs of 85°F (29°C) and lows of 72°F (22°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 47°F (9°C) and lows of 38°F (4°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Istanbul in September based on historical data.

Visiting Istanbul? See our Istanbul Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in September

General weather summary, what to wear in september, best attractions for istanbul in september.

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Istanbul Travel Guide

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Istanbul in September

The weather in Istanbul in September is the beginning of the velvet season. The sea and the nights are still very warm, but there is no longer a strong summer sun. With the end of the holidays and the start of business life, the beaches become freer.

Thus, Istanbul in September is the warmest and most comfortable month for a beach and cultural holiday. Ideal weather conditions are set for visiting the architectural monuments of ancient Constantinople. Many Istanbul festivals are held at the beginning of autumn.

Average air temperature during the day: 26°C Average temperature at night: 22°C Sea water temperature: 23°C Rainfall: 35 mm Wind speed: up to 5-6 m/s Rainy days: 3-5

The highest daily temperature in September reaches 30 degrees. At night it does not fall below 16°C and averages 18+22°C.

At the end of September, light winds are already blowing in Istanbul. Also in the first month of autumn, unlike summer, it rains.

Usually the weather deteriorates by the last week of the month, there are heavy showers. The air temperature during the day in the last decade often drops to + 24 + 25 degrees.

In mid-autumn, the rainy season usually begins in Istanbul. But there are also very hot years, when at the end of September there is still unbearable summer heat.

The average water temperature in September in Istanbul is 23 degrees. Which is very comfortable for swimming in the sea, sunbathing and beach holidays.

Throughout the month, the water in the sea warms up to 23-23.6 ° C, and only starting from the 25th day it gradually decreases. By September 30, the water temperature is already 20°C.

September is an excellent choice for a seaside holiday. This is the high season, tourists still flock to the city. Throughout the month, the water in the Black and Marmara Seas is comfortable enough for swimming. The water temperature is +23°C and only by the very end of the month it drops by 1-2 degrees.

There are already fewer people on the beaches in the first autumn month than in July-August. But the sun is still intense, just like in summer, so be sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

September in Istanbul is the last chance of the season to swim on the beaches of the Princes’ Islands. The Adalar archipelago consists of 9 islands, and you can swim to them by vapur or ferry in an hour.

What to wear in Istanbul in September

September weather allows you to take summer things on a trip to the city of two continents. In September, in Istanbul, you can wear a T-shirt, shorts, summer trousers or dresses.

But for the evening and for a boat trip, you need to provide warmer clothes. A cardigan, jeans, a jacket or even a windbreaker will come in handy, especially when it comes to walking along the Bosphorus.

You also need to take a mosquito spray. On the territory of many hotels they are poisoned, but on the streets, in parks or in the evening near the water, mosquitoes can cause trouble.

Holidays in Istanbul in September

İstanbul Opera Festivali is Istanbul’s International Opera Festival held during the summer at beautiful historical sites. Namely, in the palaces of Topkapı and Yıldız, the Rumelian Fortress, the Church of St. Irene, etc.

Istanbul in September host the international Istanbul Jazz Festival – İstanbul Caz Fesivali.

Istanbul Jazz Festival is a platform for both Turkish jazzmen and foreign musicians. Free concerts are held throughout the city in parks, as well as jazz performances in shopping centers, Sultan’s mansions, the Volkswagen Arena, the Venetian Palace Garden and concert halls.

The program of the festival by day can be found on the official website of the festival.

The average cost of tickets for paid performances starts from 50 lira . Performances in parks are free.

However, you can freely enjoy jazz tunes throughout the two festival weeks in Istanbul everywhere. And on the squares, and on ships plying the Bosphorus, and in numerous cafes and restaurants.

What to see in Istanbul in September

In September, an influx of citizens returning from holidays and vacations comes to Istanbul with renewed vigor. Tourists are attracted by the softened weather, but they find themselves in a crowded metropolis.

There are big traffic jams on the roads since September, because not only the velvet, but also the business season begins. Therefore, it is not recommended to use land transport, it is better to choose walking tours and Bosphorus boat tours .

Ideas where to go in Istanbul in September:

Museum of Miniatures Miniaturk. Of course, this is the most beautiful park museum in Istanbul. The open-air miniature park has collected exact copies of all the important sights and natural wonders of Turkey. Palaces, museums, mosques, cathedrals, fortresses, natural springs, airports, towers. The miniatures are large, some are as tall as human beings, and it is very interesting to walk among them.

Cruise on the Bosphorus . A boat trip along the cold strait will allow you to consider both banks. You can take a tour with access to the Black or Marmara Sea.

Gulhane park. Be sure to set aside at least half a day to explore the Sultan’s Palace and eat chestnuts in the beautiful park near Topkapı Palace.

Princes’ Islands. Swim on the beach of Buyukada or Burgazada, ride a bike and take a walk in the coniferous parks. There are very ancient wooden buildings and a lot of greenery.

Maiden’s Tower. It’s still warm enough to dine on the summer terrace of the Kızkulesi Maiden’s Tower right in the middle of the Bosphorus. And you can drink a cocktail in the bar on the top floor of Kyz Kulesi.

Arasta Bazaar or Fish Market. Look for rare antiques and authentic Turkish carpets in the picturesque streets of Arasta Bazaar.

Or check out the fish rows at Balık çarşısı near the Galata Bridge. By the way, here you can see the shopping malls, markets and outlets of Istanbul .

Accommodation in Istanbul in September

Since September is high season in Istanbul, hotel prices are appropriate. But some hotels bring down the cost of living by the end of the month. In any case, it makes sense to choose accommodation on Booking in advance.

Find hotels in the center of Istanbul>>>

For example, a week of accommodation in a three-star hotel in the center of Istanbul for two on Booking will cost about $350, and a good four-star hotel – from $500. If you choose accommodation further from the center or apartments and boutique hotels, prices start at about $250 for two.

A five-star hotel in remote areas like Maltepe can be found for $350. per week, in the very center – from 650 USD

For beginner tourists, it is better to choose such strategic central locations as Sultanahmet, Galata (Beyoglu), Karakoy, Sirkeci or Taksim. To walk around the historical center on foot.

At the same time, if you are staying in the center, do not look for the metro nearby, there is none in the historical quarters. Ideally, there should be walking distance to the T1 tram stop or to the funicular.

Experienced travelers who go to Istanbul for a real Asian flavor can choose accommodation in the Karakoy or Uskudar areas. It is cheaper, there are few tourists, and the city center is easily accessible by Marmaray or ferry.

Shopping in Istanbul in September

September in Istanbul marks the end of the sales season, which began at the end of July. You can have time to buy summer collections of clothes and shoes with discounts up to 80%. Briefly about shopping in Istanbul .

Bazaars and markets in September work as usual. The most shopping areas of Istanbul are Laleli, Zeytinburnu and Osmanbey. Closest to the center is Laleli, just a few tram stops from Sultanahmet. There you can find the market Laleli and fishing spots for clothing wholesalers.

But the best streets for shopping are considered to be:

Istiklal street (Istiklal caddesi) – in the Taksim district .
Bagdad street (Bagdat caddesi) – in the Asian part of the city, there are many trendy shopping malls, luxury boutiques and places for youth parties.
Abdi Ipekci Street (Abdi İpekçi Caddesi) is the main shopping street of Istanbul, in the prestigious
Sisli district. Here, the most expensive rental of premises in Turkey is 3.5 thousand dollars per sq.m. The street is full of exclusive designer shops and expensive restaurants.

You can hide from the September heat at noon in the shopping centers of Istanbul, starting from the Kanyon and ending with the Istanbul Forum. The main shopping malls are Cevahir , Kanyon , Galleria .

Useful links for Istanbul travel

Hotels : Booking and Trip.com
Flights : Aviasales , CheapoAir and Trip.com
Insurance : Insubuy and VisitorsCoverage
Airport transfers : GetTransfer and KiwiTaxi
Rent a car: RentalCars and Discover Cars
Rent a bike: BikesBooking
Excursions and tickets: Bus Tours , GetYourGuide , Attractions

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Istanbul in September

Istanbul in September 2023 : is it worth going? Weather, sea temperature, prices in hotels and on excursions, what to wear. What to visit in Istanbul in early September and close to October, where you can go in Turkey – in the review by good Time for Trip.

For some unknown reason – to us personally – many tourists stubbornly refuse to consider September as the most important, if not the best component of the high season. Although it would seem: the weather in early fall is often gorgeous, the sun is in abundance, and even the sea is sometimes warmed up to pleasant (for most swimmers) temperatures.

In September Istanbul is no exception to the rule – on the contrary, the “picture” seems to be painted from it. The only thing that can raise doubts among a potential vacationers is whether they should go somewhere further south?

For an obvious reason – to catch the elusive summer by the tail and swim. Instead of exploring the famous sights!

We tend to think that this is a promising and very interesting undertaking – in September the weather in Antalya and many of other Turkish resorts is excellent. But we refuse to understand – why the seaside vacation can’t be made one of the points of your extensive entertainment program in Turkey?

May be…

Let’s say – first in early September you can go to Istanbul, and then move towards the resorts of the Aegean or the Mediterranean in general. After all, the distances and duration of a standard two-week vacation allow you to do this?

As you easily can go from Istanbul on vacation to September Bodrum or Marmaris. Or, for example, to Kas, Kemer, Antalya, Alanya?!

Dreams will come true – you just need to rent a car at an affordable price. And stop being nervous – driving in Turkey is no more difficult than in Europe.

We emphasize that most travelers are no longer interested in all of the above at the beginning of fall. Because they return to working days and temporarily lose interest in distant countries and curious destinations.

And this is an additional reason for you to think about the trip, isn’t it?!

Small-Group Tour Including Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht
Historic Off the Beaten Path Tour of the Real Istanbul

It doesn't rain in Istanbul at the beginning of September

Weather in Istanbul in September

To describe it in one word – hot, sometimes even too much. In any case, by noon the air temperature easily reaches +30 °C . And sometimes it gets over this psychological boundary.

What matters is stability. Indeed, until the third decade of September, Istanbul observes weather that is not prone to fluctuations and, moreover, serious failures.

Because even at night the thermometers do not tend to fall below +20 °C. And during the day they keep the interval + 25-28 °C as if sewn on.

Note that we say this for a reason, but with “meaning”. So that you do not forget to take sunscreen and other things that are equally useful in Turkey with you on a trip.

By the end of the month, we can expect cooling, and often spasmodic: today +25 °C, and tomorrow – only +18 °C.

But, again, extreme is not expected. A tourist just needs to put on a jacket or sweater, going on an informative 5-hour tour of the old city.

Rains here at the beginning of autumn are rare guests. According to statistics – and in this case it can be considered an exact science – for the entire month a maximum of 30-40 mm of precipitation falls. Moreover, rainy days are on the strength of 2-3 days.

It should be understood that the rest are certainly sunny? Of course not. But clear weather is still a priority!

Top-15 Attractions You Should Visit in Istanbul

Sea Temperature

The Bosphorus, Black and Marmara Seas near Istanbul are enouhg warm in September. In any case, they allow almost any citizen to swim.

The water temperature fluctuates from + 23-24 °C at first to + 20-21 °C closer to the end of the month – even in the middle of the summer the North Sea near Great Britain or Germany can only dream of such values.

It is unlikely, of course, that you will try to swim in the Bosphorus – you don’t want to get hit by a tanker! But you can go to the same Kilos, a popular Black Sea resort nearby. Yes, and the beaches of the Princes’ Islands – beckon!

What to Wear

From the above, it is clear that there is no need to unnecessarily overload the suitcase with little things … unless you decide to put on a new outfit every day. But today, it’s probably better to leave more empty space.

In order to be able to bring a lot of gifts from Turkey to relatives and friends – both original souvenirs and quite practical or just tasty things.

One way or another, a hooded windbreaker has a good chance of coming in handy in Istanbul at the end of September – not in the afternoon, but in the evening. If you are planning to travel to Cappadocia for example, a sweater or sweatshirt may come in handy.

Such clothes will almost certainly please you even during an evening walk along the Bosphorus – near the water, the wind seems to feed additional energy. And he gladly “cuts” bare tourist arms and legs.

Best Places to Go Near Istanbul

Bosphorus - in September You can even swim near Istanbul

Prices 2023

Ultra-early booking according to the innovative scheme “spring for autumn” promises, if not a lot, then still positive emotions. Since the chances of making a profitable deal are high, you only need to diligently monitor promotional offers.

Take Meserret Palace Hotel – Special Category for example. The very center, 4 stars, fashionable and expensive …

But sometimes they make a discount here: a room for two in early September can be rented for 90 € . It’s not too expensive for this level and breakfast is included in the price!

Much more modest in terms of price (25 €) Hotel Orkide in the same Fatih area. But its rating in Booking (9.3) hints that you are unlikely to be disappointed if stay here.

Between Sirkeci Station (“Orient Express” by Agatha Christie, remember?) and Topkapi Palace, in the Sultanahmet, located Villa Sweet Hotel . The price tag is tolerable – 65 € per night… with breakfast!

Relatively inexpensive (75 €) Florenta Hotel , which is located at a distance of 600-700 meters from Gulhane Park and the Blue Mosque. “Very good” breakfasts, which, according to one of the reviews, it is quite possible to stretch until dinner, are included in the price!

What to Do in Istanbul in September

Now about the most interesting. Which lies not only in a rich program of events that allow you to see Istanbul in all its glory. But mainly in the freedom of hands – at the end of the excursion program, you may well move to rest on the sea!

It is worth taking three or four days to explore the ancient city – you will spend several hours on the Topkapi complex alone. But you need to pay more attention to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, the palaces of Dolmabahce and Beylerbeyi.

Who wouldn’t want to climb the Galata Tower, see the graceful Suleymaniye, admire the frescoes of the Hora monastery? Of course, and take a walk along the Bosphorus – if not to the Princes’ Islands, then within the city. Again, the Rumeli Hisar fortress, which once guarded the strait from the Black Sea, is best viewed from the water!

As for the thermal baths in Yalova, they are visited at will. If you are looking for not only vivid impressions, but also want to relax, spend a day on this wellness resort!

The same amount will be spent on a trip to Edirne with its wonderful mosque, the creation of the great Sinan. At least one more will take off if you want to personally see the ruins of Troy.

It makes sense to plan a trip to Cappadocia in September . After all, it won’t be much cooler there, and you can organize an exciting and rich program of events.

Beach Holiday

As for the resorts, they are available in the immediate vicinity of Istanbul . We have already mentioned Kilyos – it is also worth mentioning the towns of Shile and Agva on the Black Sea coast of the Anatolian Peninsula.

The first is located just 70 km to the northeast and is connected to the metropolis of excellent quality by a highway. The second is located a little further away, and therefore sees fewer tourists.

There are also worthy places on the Marmara Sea. And if in Chynardzhik, Armutlu, Gemlik and Mudanya it is sometimes too busy, then Erdek is well suited for a relaxing family vacation.

After all, it is located at a sufficient distance – 260 km – from the metropolis. Virtually excluding crowds of vacationers!

Lost in Thrace – on the other side of the sea – the village of Sharkoy looks like an interesting option. After all, local beaches are never crowded!

If we consider popular resorts, then Kusadasi is located 550 km from the former Constantinople. And you can move to the beaches there, fed up with sightseeing, in 6 hours. This is by car – the plane is faster.

It is already about 700 km to Bodrum, and this is from 8 hours of driving on the highway. It is curious that to Antalya, the “queen” of all beach destinations in Turkey, about the same. And the heat with the advent of autumn there gradually begins to subside.

In short, the choice is not easy for you…

What Tasty Foods to Try in Turkey
What to Do in Cappadocia in September
Best Places for Seaside Holidays in Turkey in September

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Why you should visit Istanbul in September

Istanbul weather in september, istanbul events in september.

Istanbul's top places to visit in September

Flights, tours, and hotels in Istanbul

Video guide.

September is a delightful time to visit Istanbul, as the summer heat begins to wane, and the city is bathed in a pleasant, temperate climate. The bustle of summer tourists starts to dwindle, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the city’s rich history and culture. Additionally, September marks the beginning of the fall season, bringing a colorful transformation to the city’s landscapes.

During September, Istanbul experiences mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 26°C (66°F to 78°F). The transition from the scorching summer heat to the more moderate, cooler temperatures makes it an ideal time for exploring the outdoors. Visitors can enjoy the city without the discomfort of excessive heat, and occasional rain showers provide a refreshing break from the long, dry summer.

Istanbul International Arts and Culture Festival

The Istanbul International Arts and Culture Festival is a vibrant celebration, showcasing a diverse range of artistic and cultural performances, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts. The festival attracts both local and international talents, offering a captivating and enriching experience for attendees.

Istanbul Coffee Festival

Coffee lovers should not miss the Istanbul Coffee Festival, where they can indulge in a rich array of coffee tastings, workshops, and demonstrations. This event provides an opportunity to savor the unique flavors of Turkish coffee and explore the fascinating coffee culture of Istanbul.

International Istanbul Biennial

The International Istanbul Biennial is a prominent contemporary art exhibition that takes place at various venues across the city. Showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works from global artists, the biennial offers a remarkable insight into the dynamic world of contemporary art and invites visitors to engage with cutting-edge artistic expression.

For updated event schedules and tickets, it’s recommended to check the official websites or local event listings closer to your travel dates.

Istanbul’s top places to visit in September

Topkapi palace.

The Topkapi Palace, once the lavish residence of Ottoman sultans, is an extraordinary historical complex that invites visitors to delve into the opulent past of the Ottoman Empire. Its lush gardens and stunning architecture create a captivating ambiance for exploring the royal lifestyle of bygone eras.

Hagia Sophia

A visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia provides a mesmerizing glimpse into the architectural marvels of the ancient world. This UNESCO World Heritage site holds a rich tapestry of history and art, offering a profound understanding of Istanbul’s diverse cultural heritage.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, presents an irresistible opportunity for shopping enthusiasts. Amidst its labyrinthine alleyways, visitors can discover an array of treasures, from exquisite carpets and jewelry to traditional crafts and spices.

Bosphorus Cruise

Embarking on a Bosphorus cruise unveils the mesmerizing beauty of Istanbul from a unique perspective, allowing travelers to witness the city’s enchanting skyline and the stunning juxtaposition of Europe and Asia. The breathtaking vistas and the serene ambiance make this experience truly unforgettable.

To avoid crowds, consider visiting popular attractions during weekdays and early mornings.

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Istanbul travel tips — 9 things & what to know before going to istanbul.

Istanbul is one of the few cities in the world to be shared by two continents including Europe and Asia. Istanbul is too beautiful, too mysterious, and makes you overwhelmed in ease, “lost” and possibly in danger after just a few minutes to get this ancient city. Therefore, to ensure your safety and enjoy the most interesting and exciting trip to Istanbul, Turkey as your expectation, you should know what to do and not do before going to Istanbul, Turkey. Let’s check out and note our 09 must-know Istanbul travel tips below for your perfect trip to Istanbul, Turkey.

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So, what to know before going to Istanbul? Let’s check out our list of 9 things to know before visiting Istanbul and tips for visiting Istanbul (Istanbul travel tips), what to know before traveling to Istanbul that we compiled to help you have a safe and smooth trip to the city that lies on two continents of Asia and Europe!

What to know before going to Istanbul: Restrictions on traveling by taxi

It is certainly a wise choice for your trip by taxi to visit popular attractions located far away from the city. However, that is for your trips to the cities of Los Angeles, Paris, Amsterdam, etc. It is extremely wrong to choose a taxi in Istanbul.

Because the famous ancient capital of Turkey is a city with heavy traffic congestion, especially during rush hours and traffic jams, you will take a lot more time to get to the next destinations, or even back to the hotel.

Therefore, you should choose to take neither taxi nor a bus if the route is not far, you should walk as well as see many different corners of the city. It is also an interesting experience in the “capital of ancient capitals”.

In case, you need to go a long route, you can choose to travel by tram or Metrobus. These vehicles have so much, but it still moves quickly and is more cost-effective than taxis.

What to know before traveling to Istanbul: Need an Istanbul travel map

To Istanbul in Turkey or other cities in any country, you should also bring a city map wherever you go. With a map, you will be more confident while having a trip around a seriously “troublesome” neighborhood system in Istanbul, a famous city with a very narrow alley system.

The locals hang full of colorful clothes throughout the neighborhood, which makes you confused between the streets. In addition, the streets of Istanbul are not flat. You sometimes go up and down suddenly, and if you realize you’ve lost your way, you will feel tired and get a lot of difficulties during your movement.

Hence, when you come to Istanbul, don’t be afraid to bring a map to go to the place quickly, limit the situation of getting lost, going to the wrong places in the city, and easily find great homes for your free exploration.

Note that you can use Google Maps instead of paper maps, you should arrange a map if possible because you sometimes may not use Google Maps.

Things to know before visiting Istanbul: Do not go to protest sites in Istanbul

In recent years, Turkey has been constantly politically unstable, coups and bombings have taken place many times. Therefore, when you travel to Turkey, especially in major tourist cities like Istanbul, you need to keep away from the protest points with a large number of people to avoid endangering yourself.

Protests or large gatherings are often in the central areas of the city, which happen both during the day and at night. So, during your trip around this city, if you find many people who are agitators or troublemakers gathering at your arrival, you should leave and move to other places, it’s better for you.

Tips for visiting Istanbul: Do not book your accommodation around Taksim

Taksim Square is always a gathering place for a lot of people who like “nightlife” and this place also doesn’t have a curfew. Hence, this area is very messy at night, there are also many disturbances in the morning. These are the reasons that you should avoid booking in the area around Taksim square.

If you still prefer to stay in the city center, you can change to a hotel or homestay in Cankurtaran, Galata, which are also in the city center but much safer and quieter. Some recommended hotels below are introduced as brief information to you before going to Istanbul.

Spinel Hotel

Address:Cankurtaran, Terbıyık Çk. No:6, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Phone: +90 212 517 00 25

The Galataport Hotel

Address:Bereketzade, Laleli Çeşme Sk. No:10, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Phone: +90 212 245 10 95

Byzantium Suites Hotel

Address: Cankurtaran, Akbıyık Cd. No:29, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Phone: +90 212 458 62 00

Not stay in Taksim, but the “nightlife” in this area is most interesting and vibrant. As a result, if you prefer the nightlife and discovery, please try once to experience Istanbul at night in Taksim, this will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Istanbul travel tips: Get tea invitations from natives

Turkish people are very friendly with their guests, if they offer you a cup of traditional Turkish black tea and apple tea, don’t refuse them, boldly accept and enjoy these warm cups of tea. You will feel closer to strangers in a foreign land and fall in love with this half-Asian and half-European country.

However, if you have an urgent matter that needs to be done right away, you can politely refuse, the Turks will sincerely accept and don’t think that you are impolite.

What to know before going to Istanbul: Discreet outfits in mosques

When you go to churches and mosques, women should pay attention to covering their heads with headscarves, wear discreet outfits, and do not wear 2-string tops, shorts, or short skirts. These outfits will make the natives uncomfortable, even you may be prevented from entering the mosques.

In case, you carelessly wear these revealing costumes when going to mosques, you can quickly treat yourself by wrapping a Pashmina scarf all over your body to cover, but it’s best to dress modestly here to express your respect for the sacred places.

Istanbul tips: No noise at the sanctuaries

These sanctuaries are also churches and cathedrals. During prayer times for believers, if you are noisy, and disorderly and use your phone to record videos or take photos of believers, these may make the prayer session become a reality. That means it’s easy to make believers uncomfortable, and angry; you may not be welcome here.

Things to know before visiting Istanbul: Do not confuse Turkish food and Greek food

Coming to Turkey for a cheap tour, don’t think that you come to second Greece, Turkey, and Greece with the same features of culture and cuisine, but they still have many different sides. While eating Turkish food, if you get the mistake to think that it is Greek food, you will hurt the Turks very much.

The Turks are extremely proud of their cuisine, so during your arrival in Turkish restaurants, you feel that the dish is very similar to Greek food and you can name it after the Greek name, but be more sensitive. Please ask the waiter about Turkish pronunciation and order, the waiter will smile friendly with you.

What to know before going to Istanbul: Do not go to Pudding Shop

Near Hagia Sophia church, there was a restaurant called Pudding Shop, which was a popular gathering place for tourists from all over the world on the way to Kathmandu. But that’s the story of 50 years ago, now the name of the shop is still Pudding Shop at the old address. On the contrary, the food and culture of the shop are no longer as special as before, you should not be cheated to come here unless you disappoint.

Instead of choosing Pudding Shop, you can go to Tarihi Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a famous restaurant in Istanbul that has a modest number of dishes, but affordable prices, excellent food taste, excellent service, and a convenient taking away service. Therefore, let’s free to choose your food here.

The Turkey travel tips on what to do and what to know will provide you with some great information, and amazing advice for your first trip to Istanbul, even travelers who have rich Istanbul experiences, to avoid limitations or taboos for your perfect trip to Istanbul, Turkey .

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Istanbul you can refer to

Istanbul Welcome Card
Hagia Sophia Introduction Tour with Audio Guide
Istanbul Classics Tour
Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque Small Group Tour
Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, & Basilica Cistern Combo Tour in Istanbul
Istanbul Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
Hop-on Hop-off Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
4G SIM Card (MY Delivery) for Turkey from joytel2u
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[Sale] Sea Life Aquarium Ticket in Istanbul
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Princes’ Island Full Day Tour from Istanbul
Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Tour
Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
Istanbul: Bosphorus Music and Dinner Cruise w/ Private Table
Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise with Audio App
Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour
Best of Istanbul in 1 Day
Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Blue Mosque in Istanbul, architectural masterpieces

Are you looking for more top things to do in Istanbul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And My trip to Istanbul — Explore the bridge city of Asia and Europe. And Turkey travel guide here .

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The Best Time to Visit Istanbul

Istanbul › Best Time to Visit Updated: March 18, 2020 By Santorini Dave

Best Places to Stay in Istanbul
Best Hotels in Istanbul
Best Hotels for Families in Istanbul

When is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is either April-May or mid-September to October-end when the days are longer, drier, and sunnier, but not as hot as in the peak of summer. Temperatures range between 12°C and 25°C and there are a few brief showers occasionally. These months also avoid the large tourist crowds.

The best time to visit Istanbul is April, May, and mid-September to the end of October.

Best Time for Good Weather : April to October.
Best Time for Honeymoons : April, May, and September.
Best Time for Nightlife : May to September.
Best Time for Saving Money : Avoid the peak months of June, July, and August when hotel rates are at their highest. The cheapest time is the winter, from December to February, but the cold weather is less inviting.
Best Time for Sightseeing : During the summer months of June, July, and August, the crowds around the sights in the old city can be overwhelming – and made worse by the hot and sticky weather. So, the optimal time is April, May, and from mid-September to October-end. During April, the entire city is in bloom for the tulip festival (see later).
Best Time of the Day for Sightseeing : The most pleasant time to visit Istanbul’s abundant sights during summer is soon after opening, or later in the day, but in winter there are usually no queues or crowds at any time. In summer, however, expect sweltering heat, massive crowds, and long lines at entrance gates. Weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) are usually busier, but most attractions have their own closing days and slightly different operating hours, so always check before visiting.
Best Time for a Bosphorus Cruise : During September, the weather is usually warm, the crowds are reduced, and the winter gusts have yet to settle in. May is the next best option and an ideal time to look for the 3 species of dolphins that inhabit the strait. However, cruises along the Bosphorus are worthwhile at any time. Cruises might be canceled in winter because of poor weather; those in the morning will offer the best chance of sunshine.
Best Time for Shopping : Istanbul is a popular shopping destination, offering a wide variety of world-famous brands along with high-quality local designs. The city’s local fashion industry is also booming, so seek out non-chain stores for the best prices. Spread over 40 days in June, July, and August, the Istanbul Shopping Fest offers substantial discounts across various malls and markets, although the abundance of tourists at the Grand Bazaar at this time reduces the possibility of too many bargains. Discounts are also possible across the city between mid-December and early January.
Best Time for Water Activities : Despite so much of the city facing the Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn, water-sports are really limited to boat cruises which are especially popular after dark. Strong winds can make sailing, or even traveling a short while by ferry, a little uncomfortable. The water is calmest in the summer (June to August).

Istanbul Travel Seasons

High Season (June to early September): At this time, the crowds can be overwhelming, especially in the older parts of the city where the streets are narrow and sights, impressive. All visitors should book accommodations way ahead and expect rates to be far higher than just a week or two before and after this period. These months coincide with summer when the heat and humidity peak and the Turkish school holidays are on (mid-June to mid-September). However, this is a perfect time to enjoy a meal at a seafood restaurant along the Bosphorus or a Turkish coffee at a sidewalk café.
Shoulder Season (mid-September to the end of November, April, and May): These periods avoid the Turkish school holidays and the hottest weather, so they’re ideal for visiting Istanbul, especially during the tulip festival in April. It’s still crowded in places during September and October, but the cool and pleasant weather can continue until around mid-November.
Low Season (December to March): Expect substantial discounts in hotel rates and significantly reduced crowds, but it will be very cold, especially near the water. Some tourist businesses, e.g. dinner cruises and day tours to regional areas, may stop for a month or more. Hotels get busier and dearer during the Christmas/New Year period (around 20 December to 5 January).

Istanbul Weather by Month

Turkey’s largest city enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters, with changeable months in-between. The weather can vary within the city because of its size, layout across 3 peninsulas, and position along the invisible divide between Europe and Asia.

When is the best temperature to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul Weather in January : Rivals February as the coldest month of the year. Snow may fall on about 4 days but nothing to affect travel plans – in fact, it may snow in one area of Istanbul but not another. Average daytime high of 8°C but stays just 3-4 degrees above freezing overnight. Second-highest average rainfall (after December), with some rain falling on about 14 days and the sun setting before 5pm.
Istanbul Weather in February : Winter continues with cold and wet weather, and it’s often extremely windy near the water. Fog may affect some flights and ferries, usually before mid-day, and the streets may be lined with snow for a few days. Average temperatures are about the same as January. With less than 4 hours of sunshine on average per day, consider visiting indoor attractions such as museums, galleries, mosques, and the Grand Bazaar (which is mostly undercover).
Istanbul Weather in March : Highly changeable month which locals still call ‘winter’. Average daytime temperatures rise a little from 8°C in February to 11°C in March, and it still rains on average for 13 days. In fact, the highest snowfall ever recorded in Istanbul occurred in March 1987.
Istanbul Weather in April : Substantial increase on average from the previous month to 16°C and still a cold 12°C soon after sunset. With a noticeable drop in average rainfall from previous months, as well as fewer tourists and far lower hotel rates than June, July, and August, this is the best time to travel for the year so far – especially during the city-wide tulip festival (see below). Days are noticeably longer, with the sun setting at about 8pm by the end of the month.
Istanbul Weather in May : Average daily temperature peaks at a pleasant 20°C but stays a coolish 12°C overnight. Expect some brief showers and sudden changes in temperatures, but it’s still a fabulous time to visit as the summer seems to be just around the corner.
Istanbul Weather in June : Start of the summer, when average daytime temperatures are 26°C and a mild 17°C overnight, but it can still be significantly hotter on some days. Showers have reduced to an average of 6 days a month. Start of the peak tourist season, but not as busy, hot, and humid as July and August.
Istanbul Weather in July : Equals (with August) the highest average daytime/overnight temperatures for the year: 28°C/17°C. While this may not seem hot to some, peaks of about 35°C are not uncommon, and the humidity, traffic, and crowds can become uncomfortable at times. Very little rain, as expected, with the lowest average monthly rainfall. To escape the heat and humidity, find a nice waterside café.
Istanbul Weather in August : About the same average temperatures during the day and night as July, and the busiest month of the year for visitor numbers. Expect shirt-soaking humidity and little relief from any winds. Still very dry, with occasional showers on only about 5 days a month.
Istanbul Weather in September : Slight drop in average daytime/overnight temperatures to 25°C/17°C (about the same as June), but reduced significantly by the end of the month. While it still may rain on some days, the drop in crowds, especially later in the month, makes this a perfect time to travel.
Istanbul Weather in October : Substantial drop to 19°C on average during the day and a coolish 12°C overnight as the autumn/fall has arrived. Still pleasant for visiting, although a little chilly, and days can be rainy; in fact, October receives the highest average monthly rainfall for the year since January, mostly falling during the second half of the month.
Istanbul Weather in November : The last month until April when some days can be pleasant, particularly during the first half – although expect about 13 days with rain during the month. A cool 14°C on average during the day but after dark, it plummets to a chilly 9°C. By the end of the month, there may only be 5 hours of sunshine on average.
Istanbul Weather in December : Winter now starts in earnest as daytime temperatures average 10°C. Easily the wettest month of the year on average and only about 3 hours of sunshine per day can be expected. Winds can chill the bones and there may be some snow on a few days, but certainly not as much as in nearby mountainous regions. Overnight average temperatures drop sharply to only a few degrees above freezing, while morning fog can be problematic and affect travel by air and sea. By now, the sun sets well before 5pm.

Istanbul Holidays, Events, and Festivals by Month

Dates for all Islamic festivals vary each year according to the lunar calendar (which is about 11 days shorter). These festivals will affect the opening of mosques and probably the ability for tourists to drink at an outdoor bar or even eat during the day at a table outside. Also, timetables for public transport may change and some workers, e.g. drivers for day tours, may be unavailable. On public holidays, all banks and government offices and some businesses will close.

For one month during Ramazan (Ramadan), Muslims, with a few exceptions, are obliged to not eat or drink during daylight hours. Şeker Bayrami (known as Eid al-Fitr elsewhere) celebrates the end of Ramazan for 3 days. It is also called the ‘Sugar Feast/Festival’ because sweets are given, mostly to children, and the first day after Ramadan is a public holiday. The most important festival is Kurban Bayrami (Eid al-Adha), which usually involves slaughtering sheep or goats over 4 days to commemorate the willingness of Abraham/Ibrahim to sacrifice his son to God.

Istanbul Events in January

New Year’s Day (1st) – Quiet, reflective time when many locals stay at home, probably after a big night out, or visit friends. Public holiday, so some amenities, e.g. public transport, are more limited, but most tourist sights are open (and busy).

Istanbul Events in February

No festivals are organized during this peak winter month.

Istanbul Events in March

Sonar Istanbul (changeable, early March) – Part of an international chain of music festivals showcasing the hippest and best up-and-coming groups and DJs – all mostly under the label ‘electronic’. For 2 days.
Akbank Short Film Festival (changeable, late March) – Screenings and competitions over 10 days under diverse categories like ‘Perspective’ and ‘Experiences’. Also workshops, discussions, and interviews – and everything is free to enter. Mostly in Turkish but some films have English subtitles.
Istanbul International Dance Festival (changeable, late March to early April) – Plenty of performances from across the globe as well as workshops and classes in 40 styles from Cha Cha to belly-dancing.

Istanbul Events in April

Istanbul Film Festival (changeable, early-mid April) – For 2 weeks, the flourishing Turkish film industry showcases local movies (often with English subtitles) and international films at various cinemas. Popular among film buffs trying to rub shoulders with famous actors.
International Istanbul Tulip Festival (Istanbul Lale Festival) (all of April) – Glorious spectacle of the national flower (which was introduced to the Netherlands by the Ottomans). Literally millions of bulbs from over 100 species planted across the city start blooming from late March. Very photogenic and especially convenient in the old city at Gülhane Park and Sultanahmet Square. Also, plenty of exhibitions and live traditional performances across Istanbul.
Presidential Cycling Tour of Turkey (changeable, mid-April) – Turkey’s version of the Tour de France. Peddling across various parts of city and the region for over a week.
National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (23rd) – Celebrates the first parliament of modern Turkey in 1920. Public holiday with parades, patriotic songs and performances by children, and laying of wreaths at monuments for Turkey’s founder, Atatürk.

Istanbul Events in May

Labour and Solidarity Day (1st) – Major celebration across the world and a local public holiday. Usually just a quiet time with family and friends.
Hidrellez Festival – Traditional event celebrating the first day of spring with ancient traditions and Gypsy music. Celebrated more these days in the villages than in the cities.
Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth, and Sports Day (19th) – Public holiday with plenty of sporting events and parades commemorating a special date linked to independence. Also celebrated as the birthday of Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey.
Open Door Festival (changeable, late May) – Allows everyone to see inside some of Istanbul’s most architecturally glorious and historically important buildings, such as the Ortaköy Mosque and Misir Apartment.
Historical Peninsula Fatih Fish Festival (29th) – Commemorates the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople (as Istanbul was once known). Plenty of cooking and eating of fish around parts of the old city.
Freshtival (changeable, late May) – Another huge music festival with the latest bands and trendiest DJs. At a park in the district of Maçka.

Istanbul Events in June

Istanbul Music Festival (changeable, June and July) – Showcasing opera, choirs, ballets, and orchestras from across the globe, along with traditional music, for over 45 years. Highly prestigious, with events held at various historic venues rarely opened otherwise.
Chill-Out Festival Istanbul (changeable, mid-June) – Electronic and trance music for those who can tell the difference. For 2 days. Also in Bodrum in July.
Istanbul Shopping Fest (changeable, June/July/August) – 40 days and nights of discounts across various malls in the suburbs and markets, particularly the Grand Bazaar. Also, concerts and other attractions to lure shoppers.
International Istanbul Opera Festival (changeable, from late June or early July) – Held in some of the city’s finest venues that are rarely open to the public. Performers from across the world converge for about 2 weeks.
Istanbul Jazz/Caz Festival (changeable, often late June to mid-July) – Broad range of music including reggae, rock, and blues. Held over 3 weeks, often in city parks with free entrance.

Istanbul Events in July

Democracy and National Unity Day (15th) – Public holiday commemorating an unsuccessful coup attempt as recently as 2016.
One Love Festival (changeable, late July) – One of a chain of international festivals featuring alternative rock bands and famous DJs.
Bosphorus Cross Continental Swim (26th) – Some 2,000 competitors from over 50 nations swim across the strait between Asia and Europe while one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes is temporarily closed.

Istanbul Events in August

Zafer Bayrami/Victory Day/Armed Forces Day (30th) – Public holiday celebrating the victory over invading Greek armies during the 1922 War of Independence. Patriotic time with military parades, speeches, and ceremonies.

Istanbul Events in September

International Istanbul Biennial (biennial, mid-September to mid-November) – Big visual arts festival of paintings and films as well as workshops, panels, and guided tours. Held over 2 months during every odd-numbered year. Everything is free.
Contemporary Istanbul (changeable, mid-September) – Over 4 days, contemporary artists and aficionados gather for a range of exhibitions, activities, and workshops.
Istanbul Coffee Festival (changeable, mid-September) – Coffee lovers rejoice. Four days when stalls sell international brands and workshops are held with hipster baristas. Also, concerts.
If Istanbul Independent Film Festival (changeable, mid-September) – Eclectic, varied, and fascinating. Held for 10 days and linked to the internationally-renowned Sundance Festival, it showcases the finest in Turkish and international films. Also in Ankara and Izmir.
Istanbul Design Biennial (biennial, changeable late September to early November) – Educational seminars and workshops over several weeks in even-numbered years.

Istanbul Events in October

Filmekimi (changeable, early October) – Another outstanding festival featuring premiers of local and international films for 10 days. Also at Izmir.
Akbank Jazz Festival (changeable, from mid/late October) – Range of local and international performers focusing more on traditional jazz. Plenty of concerts, workshops, and jam sessions for 10 days at various historic and intriguing venues. Also held in Izmir and Ankara.
Republic Day/Cumhuriyet Bayrami (29th) – Celebrates the proclamation of an independent Turkey in 1923. Sombre, patriotic time, when families enjoy parades, fireworks, and various events on the day (which is a public holiday) and the evening before.

Istanbul Events in November

Istanbul Art Fair (changeable, early November) – Plenty of paintings – new, old, western, and traditional – at numerous galleries across the city, especially in the bohemian areas of Galata. For 9 days.
International Istanbul Book Fair (changeable, from late October or early November) – The country’s major literary event over 9 days for writers, readers, and everyone in the industry. Mostly in Turkish.
Istanbul Intercontinental Marathon (changeable, usually early November) – The only marathon in the world that is run across 2 continents – from the Asian shoreline to the European side of the Bosphorus.
Atatürk Remembrance Day (10th) – Death anniversary of the founder of the Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Variety of activities, including speeches, exhibitions, and concerts.
Istanbul International Experimental Film Festival (changeable, mid-November) – Five days of screenings, competitions, and awards for the latest avant-garde films.
Mix Festival (changeable, mid-November) – Two days of alternative music as part of an international chain of festivals.
Sustainable Living Film Festival (changeable, mid-November) – Films, discussions, and workshops about environmental issues across 5 days. One of many such festivals across the globe.
Istanbul Theater Festival (changeable, usually from November) – Features old-style and experimental plays and other live performances for 2 weeks. Mostly in Turkish.

Istanbul Events in December

Istanbul International Short Film Festival (changeable, mid-December) – Long-established week-long event with screenings of about 200 films from Turkey and across the world.
International Istanbul Gastronomy Festival (changeable, late December) – Largest of its type in the country when foodies as well as about 2,000 chefs from more than 25 countries and everyone else in the industry get together for 3 days. Competitions in all sorts of categories.
Christmas (25th) – Not celebrated as a religious event by most Turks but some residents still like to use this as an excuse to go shopping and attend parties. Locals generally celebrate with food and gifts on New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve (31st) – Celebrated across much of Istanbul, especially by more westernized youth. Traditionally, families gather for a big meal and to exchange presents, and then watch fireworks at major venues. Especially spectacular during a dinner cruise.

About Santorini Dave

Hi! Am planning a trip to Istanbul in September. Just wonder if you can advise which area is the best to stay? Thank you, Juana

My hotels page has detailed information on the different areas of Istanbul to stay.

We plan to visit Istanbul in February. How is the weather? Leonard

Expect cold wet days (which is the norm in February) and then if you get dry and mild you’ll be pleased. Weather can be a mix of almost anything in February (besides warm). Queues for the main attractions will be substantially shorter than spring, summer, or fall – which is a plus. Everything is still open in February and many of the top sights are indoors.

I’m planning to visit Istanbul the first week of November. Is that a good time to go? What is the weather like? Have the crowds thinned out by then? Since it’s not high season are most places open for business during this time? Thanks in advance! Mary L.

Istanbul in early November is wonderful for sightseeing, walking, and exploring. Pack for cool/wet weather but with a bit of luck it will be mild and pleasant.

Hi. We are going to Istanbul 1st week of September with kids so please advise about weather. It will be hot or cool? What to wear and where to visit?

Kindly advise and thanks in advance.

You can feel a noticeable difference in temperature (particularly evening temps) when August ends and September begins. But it can still be very hot in early September have a good amount of cool clothing. Besides the obvious Istanbul highlights I would highly recommend a food walking tour as it’s a great way to expose kids to the culture (and a little history) of Turkey in a fun and relaxed way.

My sister and I are planing to visit Istanbul. We’re going to do a week in the city seeing sights, eating great food, relaxing. Would you recommend visiting on end of October? Iza Yusof

The end of October is a wonderful time to visit Istanbul.

We are planning to holiday in Istanbul in August 1st week. How’s the weather in Istanbul in August? Hope it’s not too sunny and humid.

Sunny, yes. Hot, yes, but usually not unbearable and tends to cool a bit at night. Humid, not really. If you get a hotel near the water you’ll benefit from the nightly breeze off the Bosphorus.

Planning a trip to Istanbul with my kids in late of May. Is that a good time in Istanbul for shopping?

Shopping is always good in Istanbul (so many little shops and markets) and late May is nice as the weather is great – not too hot yet.

Hello. I plan to visit Turkey in December this year. Please advise me which cities I should be planning to visit, in addition to Istanbul? Any general advice regarding a trip in December would be much appreciated. I am thinking to cover 2 cities from Marmaris, Cappadocia, Pamukkale.

December isn’t the best time to travel in Turkey, as many destinations (eg, Cappadocia) are very cold, and snow and ice can make getting around difficult. The coast is probably a better option, although it too will be chilly. Consider visiting the sophisticated city of Izmir, which has a sprawling and historic bazaar, a good food scene and a couple of excellent museums. The nearby ancient sites of Ephesus and Bergama (ancient Pergamon) are wonderful, too.

In Marmaris, base yourself in Canakkale. From here, you can visit the ancient site of Troy and the battlefields of Gallipoli. If travelling there from Istanbul, consider visiting the town of Edirne in Thrace on the way. Once the capital of the Ottoman empire, it has magnificent mosques and a number of other attractions.

I know in much of Europe locals leave the cities and head to the coasts during July and August – and especially August. Is that the same in Istanbul? Is the city quiet in the summer months and are we better off to visit in June or September? Also, is there an area of Istanbul that is good for local food and restaurants (even shops and markets) but still fairly central for sightseeing and good hotels? Is there a hotel or two that is good for proximity to good Turkish restaurants? And finally, is Istanbul a very walkable city?

Turkey’s major school vacation of the year starts in mid-June and continues through to the end of August, so those İstanbullus who can spare the time and money usually relocate to the coast over this period. This means that some city businesses (including restaurants, clubs, and bars) close. August is particularly quiet. During this period most hotel prices in the city revert to shoulder season rates, which is a boon for travellers looking to save money. Although the city can be quiet, there’s still plenty to do, with all of the major museums open and three of the city’s major music festivals – the İstanbul Music Festival , İstanbul Jazz Festival , and Ees PIlsen One Love – being held during this period.

An area of Istanbul that is close to local food and restaurants and still fairly central for sightseeing and good hotels? There’s only one answer: stay in Beyoğlu, which is full of good Turkish restaurants and excellent boutique hotels.

Finally, the central part of İstanbul is walkable but sidewalks are in poor condition and traffic isn’t particularly pedestrian friendly. When you walk, look down and around you constantly so that you will reach your destination safely.

We’ll like to visit Istanbul and Santorini during this end of May to early June. Do you think this is a good times to cover these 2 places? Will it be too humid/hot/crowded in Istanbul/Santorini?

This is a great time for both destinations. Weather in Istanbul is perfect for sightseeing and (unless it’s an unusual year) shouldn’t be uncomfortably hot or humid yet. Santorini will be beautiful and the weather, if anything, could still be a little chilly at night. I’d recommend visiting Istanbul first and then Santorini – a few days or a week probably won’t make much difference in the temperature but it is gradually warming through May and June, so you might as well get the slightly cooler weather for Istanbul and the slightly warmer weather for Santorini.

What are the differences between visiting Istanbul in September and October? Is one better for sightseeing? And are there big differences between the weather in September and the weather in October? Thank you, Jerri.

Both months are good for visits, with the weather in September being particularly pleasant. It can start to get a bit chilly at night in late October. The internationally acclaimed İstanbul Art Biennale is staged over both months in odd-numbered years and the İstanbul Design Biennale kicks off in late October in even-numbered years. All of the major sights are open and ferry trips down the Bosphorus and to the Princes’ Islands are particularly pleasant in September, with clear skies and warm breezes.

What are the best months to visit Istanbul? (Say, top two choices.) We plan to do sightseeing and be outdoors.

The best times to visit İstanbul are late-April to May, and mid-September to mid-October. The weather is generally pleasant and consistent during these periods, making city exploration by both foot and ferry easy and enjoyable.

We will be in Istanbul in late September and into early October. Is this a good time for the city or still too busy? Anything in particular we should see or enjoy at this time of year? Can you get cool weather in late September/early October? Should we pack sweaters and light jackets?

Late September and early October are ideal times to visit İstanbul as the weather is pleasant and street life is vibrant. Though days are generally warm, nights can be a bit chilly and there can be rain, so it would be a good idea to pack a sweater, light jacket, and umbrella. Turkey’s major visual arts festival, the İstanbul Biennial is held during September and October and it stages free exhibitions and events in evocative venues around the city – it’s rapidly gaining the reputation as one of the world’s major contemporary art events. Hotels charge high-season prices and crowds at major museums are usually a given.

Planning a trip to Istanbul with my husband. We’re going to do a week in the city seeing sights, eating great food, relaxing. Would you recommend visiting in July or August? I know these are both busy hot months and perhaps not ideal but is there a difference between the two for crowds, humidity, or any other factors? Thank you. Joan

İstanbul can be unpleasantly hot and humid in both July and August, and many affluent locals choose to relocate to the Princes Islands or the coast during this period. That said, most businesses remain open (clubs are the exception, as some venues also relocate to the coast). It’s the shoulder season for most hotels, although those on the Bosphorus and/or with swimming pools charge high-season prices. Tourist crowds are around the same (August is probably a bit quieter). Weather-wise, early July will be your best bet.

Istanbul in September

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What to do, what to see in September in Istanbul?

This month of September is very rich in events of all kinds, like the start of the Istanbul Biennale, one of the world’s largest biennial of contemporary art, and also Contemporary Istanbul, the largest contemporary art fair in Turkey. You will also find plenty of concerts and sports events including the derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe. here is the menu:

Nina Kraviz

September 4 – Teoman: the Turkish rock star is in concert in Enka in the north of Istanbul.

September 6 – Nina Kraviz: the world-renowned Russian DJ of acid techno will make the show at the VW Arena on this Friday night of September 6th!

September 7 – Sarah Chang: the American violinist of Korean origin, a prodigy who started music at age 4, will be performing at Aya Irini church in the Topkapi Palace.

September 7 – Anathema: the British progressive and psychedelic rock band, Anathema, will be on stage of the Zorlu PSM.

September 7 – Istanbul Rooftop Festival: Istanbul’s Rooftop Festival returns for the fourth year in a row, and will host more than 30,000 participants in 15 different venues. On the program more than 30 foreign and local artists in places like Spago, Mentha, Klein Garten, Georges Hotel or Bakyard and 16 Roof. For more information and to buy your tickets click here!

Ajda Pekkan

September 7 – Hey Douglas: inspired by the golden age of Anatolian pop and rock from the 60s and 70s, Hey! Douglas is considered one of the best underground DJs in Turkey, he continues his tour of electro oriental concerts. He will mix at the Dorock Xl

September 8 – Ajda Pekkan: the 73 years old superstar and precursor of the Turkish pop, who looks 20 years younger, will be at the open-air theater in Harbiye.

September 11 – Sertab Musical: Sertab Erener is one of the most famous pop singers in Turkey, she is also a recognized soprano and won the Eurovision in 2003 with the song: Everyway that I Can. She will be at the Zorlu PSM.

September 12 – Cosmic Balkan Party: the collective of artists from Turkey and the Balkans playing revisited music from the region and having performed in major festivals around the world like the Montreux Jazz Festival, will be on stage at the IF de Beşiktaş.

September 13 – Peter Bence: Peter Bence is an acclaimed international pianist and composer, and holds the record for the fastest piano player in the world. He had more than 800 million clicks on his youtube page. It will be Zorlu PSM for a performance not to be missed!

Evanescence

From September 13 to September 15: the beautiful beach in the North of the city, Milyon Beach Kilyos, organizes a three-day music festival with many Turkish stars of pop, rap and electro. To learn more click here!

September 13 – Evanescence: the American heavy metal band from Little Rock having sold millions of albums will be at the VW Arena for a concert not to be missed if you are a fan of metal!

September 13 – Woo York: the Ukrainian duo Woo York produces a powerful, catchy, dark and sophisticated sound, with a unique live performance placing them among the leaders of underground electronic music. At the %100 Studio.

September 13 – Manga: the popular Ankara rock band is in concert at Moda Kayıkhane .

September 15 – Rey&Kjavik: the German DJs having a preference for mystical and spiritual soundscapes in the context of electronic music will be on the beach Kafes in the North of Istanbul.

David Garrett

September 20 – Sylvain Chauveau: the French composer and pianist, coming from the rock scene and inspired both by the music of the twentieth century (Maurice Ravel, Erik Satie and Bernard Parmegiani) and the abstract painting will be performing at the Zorlu PSM .

September 20 – Mirkelam: it’s one of the most famous names in Turkish pop music, Mirkelam, who is called the man running, in reference to his clips, will be on stage at Dorock Xl

September 21 – David Garett: David Garrett is a world-renowned German violinist, considered one of the best musician in the profession, he also holds the world record for the fastest piece of violin. He will be on the stage of the VW Arena .

September 23 & 24 – Tarkan: the Turkish pop star who became globally known in the 2000s with his hit “Kiss Kiss” is at the open-air theater in Harbiye.

September 23 – Christos Rafalides & Petros Klampanis Quartet: the two Greek jazzmen will be at the Nardis Jazz , a really friendly jazz club in Galata.

Viken Arman

September 24 – Fuckup Night Vol 26: FuckUp Nights is a global movement where stories of failed businesses and projects are told, interviewed and celebrated. The philosophy is that you are sure to fail 100% of the projects you never start. the %100 Studio.

September 25 – Ozbi Ft Gülce Duru: the Turkish duo of oriental and melodious rap will be in concert on the stage of Dorock Xl

September 26 – Brooklyn Funk Essentials: the legendary collective of poets and musicians from different cultures will be at Babylon.

September 27 – Viken Arman: the French DJ pushes the frontiers of electronic music not only towards the future, but also towards the past with the fusion of old melodies with electronic rhythms. He will be at the %100 Studio for a concert not to be missed!

September 27 – Hüsnü Şenlendirici: the best Turkish clarinetist, for whom the clarinet is a family business (all his family plays the clarinet) will be on the stage of the IF Beşiktaş.

September 28 – Ye Eun Choi & Dmitry Shishkin: world-renowned virtuosos Ye-Eun-Choi and Dmitry Shishkin meet in Istanbul, the first played her first song at the age of one, and the second gave his first concert at the age of three. They will be for the first time in concert at the Aya Irini Chuch inside the Topkapı Palace.

September 28 – Hayko Cepkin: Hayko Çepkin is a Turkish alternative metal singer with Armenian origins and a surprising look. He will be in concert at the Dorock XL of Kadıköy.

September 28 – Carl Cox: the British DJ arrives this September 28 at the Zorlu PSM ! The one who has been nominated in the 25 best DJs of all time will make Istanbul dance!

September 29 – Orchestre philharmonique de Berlin: 12 musicians from the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra will perform on the stage of the %100 Studio, with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, among the most famous orchestras in the world.

September 5th to 15th – Uniq Outdoor Film Festival:

Uniq offers from September 6 to September 15 four films to watch in the open air in the sweetness of September. On the program: Bohemian Rhapsody, A Tale Of Three Sisters, So Long, My Son and Rocketman. All these films will be in the original version subtitled in Turkish. To buy your tickets, visit Biletix.

September 17 & 18 – Women Of The World:

Launched in 2011 on the occasion of the 100th International Women’s Day in London by Jude Kelly, WOW is a festival that celebrates women and girls, highlights their achievements and examines the obstacles they still face in world. Every WOW festival in the world is dedicated to a city and speaks about opportunities for the community as a whole and to help develop strategies and develop festival content. It will be this year in Istanbul at the Feriye Palace on the banks of the Bosphorus. For more information: https://www.britishcouncil.org.tr/en

From September 19 to September 22 – Istanbul Coffee Festival:

For the fifth year in a row, coffee professionals and cafes in Istanbul meet in a festive atmosphere at the Küçükçiftlik Park to promote their products, but also to offer workshops, concerts, new concepts and test new products. You will find not only local and international barista, but also major brands of the sector. Do not miss it, especially if you like coffee! More details on: www.istanbulcoffeefestival.com.tr

ART & EXHIBITIONS

September 12 to September 15 – Contemporary Art Istanbul:

Contemporary Istanbul is the main contemporary art fair in Turkey. Contemporary Istanbul takes place every September and offers a platform for the city’s thriving arts scene and artists in the region. Contemporary Istanbul also runs activities throughout the year to develop contemporary art and culture, raise public awareness and promote them, in Turkey and abroad, and strengthen relations in the region by organizing events and international programs.

The next edition of Contemporary Istanbul will take place from September 12 to 15, 2019. The VIP opening, which will take place on September 11, will once again bring together leading contemporary art galleries, artists and collectors from Turkey and around the world. More details on: www.contemporaryistanbul.com

From September 14th to November 10th – Istanbul Biennale of Contemporary Art:

It is one of the world’s most famous biennials of international contemporary art: https://bienal.iksv.org/en. The Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV) has been organizing the Istanbul Biennial since 1987. Considered one of the most prestigious biennials in the world alongside Venice, São Paolo and Sydney, the Istanbul Biennale has unveiled its title of “Seventh Continent” for its 16th edition, and it is already among the unmissable artistic events of 2019. The Istanbul Biennale 2019 will be organized by Nicolas Bourriaud, director of Montpellier Contemporain in France and co-founder of the Palace Museum from Tokyo to Paris.

SPORTS

September 15 – Galatasaray VS Kasımpaşa at the Türk Telekom Stadium.
September 22 – Beşiktaş VS Başakşehir at the Vodafone Park
September 22 – Fenerbahçe VS Ankaragücü at the Şükrü Saraçoğlu Stadium.
September 29 – Galatasaray VS Fenerbahçe at the Türk Telekom Stadium.

To buy your tickets, go to Passolig . If you want more information contact us !

Color Sky 5k Istanbul:

Also called the race in color, the color sky 5k is a 5 km run on the banks of Maltepe in which everyone can participate, the goal is not just the sports performance, it is also a way to have fun with family and friends because the participants are sprinkled with paintings every kilometer. The proceeds of the race will be donated to charities: www.colorsky5k.com

For other activities that we offer in September 2019 click here!

Who are we ?

Passionate about travel, food and current affairs, we created Too Istanbul with the desire to share our love and knowledge of Istanbul to give you the opportunity and desire to participate in the vibrant life of Istanbul, and make your trip a unique and rewarding experience and not just a visit.

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DISCOVER the contrasts of Istanbul, Fatih, Fener, Balat, Beyoğlu

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25 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

From historic squares to the Grand Bazaar, there's much to do in the Turkish metropolis.

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Surely there has never been a dull moment in Istanbul . An imperial capital for 1,700 years, the metropolis has long stood as a gateway between the East and West, and that has made it a hub for crossing cultures, religions, ideologies, and cuisine. And the legacy of the city — formerly Constantinople — has withstood the test of time. "It is a city with an incredible depth of culture, and history like no other," says Liam Dunch, product manager of Abercrombie & Kent, Europe. "Discovery through the stratification and the layers will be constant and unending. Observing the way that people of the city blend together the notions of the East and those of the West is an incredible experience."

Mina Agnos, president of Travelive and a Travel and Leisure A-List Advisor , agrees that the bustling city is a quintessential destination for anyone aiming to understand Turkey. "Every visit to Turkey either starts or ends with Istanbul," she adds. "It is a uniquely diverse city with so many unforgettable sites to discover." Read on to learn what these experts name as the best things to do in Istanbul.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 3 Favorite Hotels in Istanbul of 2023

Experience Taksim Square.

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Taksim Square is in the heart of modern Istanbul, perched at the end of the famous pedestrian street Istiklal Caddesi. Past meets present here; at one end you have the grand Taksim Mosque, and at the other is the modern Ataturk Cultural Center . This is where the hum of Istanbul’s activity vibrates at its highest level.

Stroll down Istiklal Caddesi.

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Speaking of Istiklal Caddesi, this pedestrian-only walking street is the place to soak in the vibe of Istanbul. It is one of the most famous thoroughfares in the country today and is flanked by both Ottoman-era buildings and Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures. The buildings house everything from boutiques and art galleries to cafes, theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Sample Turkish kebab.

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Turkish cuisine includes a dizzying array of grilled meats, seafood, salads, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, rich desserts, coffee, and tea. When visiting Istanbul, you will want to try as many of the above as possible, but perhaps Turkish kebab especially. Made of marinated lamb or beef, the kebab is cooked on skewers and served alongside vegetables or wrapped up in lavash bread.

Visit the Galata Tower.

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Rising from the historic streets of Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally constructed as a watchtower during the Byzantine era. The structure that stands today, however, dates back to the 13th century and serves as a gallery and museum. A primary feature of the tower is a 360-degree observation deck that overlooks Istanbul.

Shop and party in Beyoglu.

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"The European side of Istanbul is home to the main historic district," says Agnos. "This side of the city is considered more 'Western' and it includes nightlife spots and more cosmopolitan districts such as Beyoglu and Karakoy. Beyoglu is famous for its vibrant atmosphere; this area offers wonderful stops for shopping, dining, and nightlife." It's likely you will spend a lot of time in Beyoglu should you travel to Istanbul. Steeped in more than a thousand years of history, the neighborhood is the beating heart of modern Istanbul on the European side of the city.

Grab a drink at Grand Hotel de Londres.

A grande dame of Istanbul, Grand Hotel de Londres is a beautifully preserved building from the 1800s. It's all about opulence here, from the rich color palette and glittering chandeliers to plush wall-to-wall carpeting. The terrace bar is a favorite hangout for tourists and locals; there's often live music here, plus beautiful sunset views over the Golden Horn. "This is a good suggestion for travelers that have been to Istanbul," says Agnos. "It's an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for visitors to really feel the vibe of the city."

Explore Karakoy.

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"Karakoy, the modern name for the old Galata, is part of the Beyoglu district," says Agnos. "It is known as one of the hippest and oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul, home to arty cafes, local boutiques, cocktail bars open late into the night, and art galleries. There is a growing local fashion and art scene in this area."

Marvel at the Blue Mosque.

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One of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a beacon in the city skyline. It is known for its gorgeous domes and six soaring minaret towers. The mosque dates back to the 17th century and is still a functioning mosque today.

Visit Hagia Sophia.

Not far from the Blue Mosque is the equally impressive Hagia Sophia. Originally built as a church where rulers of the empire were crowned, it was later converted to a mosque. Today it serves as a museum dedicated to Turkey, and it remains one of the most important monuments for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Roam the Hippodrome.

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Back when Istanbul was the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was known for its horse and chariot racing, and the Hippodrome was where these exciting, adrenaline-pumping races took place. While the original venue is no longer around, what stands in its place is Sultanahmet Square, where several monuments serve as reminders of the area's millennia-old past.

Explore the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

The Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is a revolutionary museum for Turkey, being the first in the country to showcase Turkish and Islamic artwork together. Opened in 1914, it was the last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire period. The museum has 1,700 pieces of art, and its carpet collection is among the most impressive in the world.

Journey underground at the Basilica Cistern.

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Istanbul's skyline soars with some of the world's most beautiful and historic monuments, and the beauty continues underneath the pavement, too, thanks to masterpieces of engineering and infrastructure. The primary water reservoir for Constantinople, the Basilica Cistern is cathedral-esque and a sight to see. Built during the 4th century, it is supported by 336 columns and can hold up to 17.5 million gallons of water.

Visit Topkapi Palace.

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This 15th-century palace was once the administrative headquarters for the Ottoman Empire. Now a museum, the venue is full of treasures, from walls festooned with gorgeous paintings to rooms that give way to sumptuous courtyards — you can even explore the opulent former harem. It's one of the best places in Istanbul to learn about the former grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Check out the Süleymaniye Mosque.

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Istanbul is not short on impressive mosques, and Süleymaniye Mosque is certainly one of its most beautiful. Considered the masterpiece of architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque was built in the 16th century to honor Sultan Süleyman, the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire. The central dome stands at a staggering 154 feet tall and the interior is beautifully decorated with colors of gold, green, red, and blue.

Ferry to Istanbul’s Asian side.

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Istanbul stands as an important crossroads between Europe and Asia, and the city itself is divided between the two continents by the Bosphorus Strait. Be sure to immerse yourself in both sides of this rich city in order to best understand its history. There are more than 20 ferry routes across the Bosphorus, and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.

Admire Beylerbeyi Palace.

Across the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace is a 19th-century estate built as a summer palace for royalty. It was also used as a residence for visiting heads of state. The now-museum is a gorgeous example of interior design and architecture, with nods to both Ottoman and Neo-Baroque styles. The stunning gardens that surround the palace are equally impressive.

Shop around Kadikoy Market.

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Kadikoy Market is part of a buzzy bazaar on Istanbul's Asian side. Overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the market is a historic one, home to more than 4,000 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to carpets, pottery, textiles, and paintings. It is also one of the best spots in the city to sample Turkish street food and Turkish delights, a jelly candy made with rosewater.

Walk the Kuzguncuk neighborhood.

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Sandwiched between Uskudar and Beylerbeyi, Kuzguncuk is one of the most lively and vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul's Asian side, and it has always been a melting pot of religions and cultures. You'll see mosques, churches, and synagogues here, plus the neighborhood's funky mishmash of coffee shops, restaurants, tree-lined cobblestone streets, and brightly colored historic homes.

Bargain at the Grand Bazaar.

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Prepare to feast your eyes on the granddaddy of all covered markets. One of the world's oldest and largest venues of its kind, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul contains a maze of streets and thousands of shops. Vendors sell everything you could possibly think of, so if you're a professional at haggling, this will be like your Super Bowl.

Get a serious scrubbing at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.

Wellness has been "on trend" in Turkey for hundreds of years, and visitors can step back into the old ways of wellness with a visit to the iconic Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı. The building dates back to the 16th century and serves as one of the top spots in the city for a classic hamam ritual today. Remember to book accordingly — the hamam is open to women in the morning and men in the afternoon.

Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pege.

This early Byzantine monastery has a history of miracles and legends tied to it, thanks to a spring that is believed to have magical powers. It's also set on a hilltop, making it a great place to take in city views.

Connect with the local community.

If you like to step into the shoes of a local when you travel, you can do that in Turkey. Agnos recommends visiting the island village of Bozcaada in August to harvest and sell tomatoes with the local community. Or, if you're in Bodrum, join the olive harvest that occurs between September 15 and December 25.

Enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

Istanbul may be a cosmopolitan city, but it is surrounded by nature at every turn, with coastal views, island-style living, forests, and parks. "There are many seaside promenades where locals walk, run, or socialize and hang out," says Dunch. "From early June to the end of September, public beaches on the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara are open." Dunch also recommends enjoying open-air concerts in the summer, or visiting Belgrad Forest, north of the city. "Around Prince's Island," he adds, "sailing and water sports are popular."

Discover your favorite ‘esnaf lokantası’.

Istanbul has some of the top restaurants in Europe, but local, homestyle street food cafes are where the city really shows its heart. "I recommend eating at a craftsmen's eatery," said Dunch. "They are referred to as 'esnaf lokantası,' frequented by shopkeepers and craftsmen in commercially vibrant areas, such as the markets, and they offer underrated and extremely tasty home-style cooking. This is as close as a visitor can get to the heart of Turkish cuisine."

Be entertained at Bomontiada.

The impressive Bomontiada complex is a center for the arts. There's the Ara Güler Museum, restaurants, and a calendar of outdoor concerts and movie screenings, making this the place to go for all forms of entertainment. It also happens to be housed within the once-abandoned Bomonti beer factory, and it was integral to helping redefine this formerly desolate part of the city.

IMAGES

10 Free Things to Do in Istanbul
When Is the Best Time to Visit Istanbul?
Top 10 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Istanbul
5 Reasons to fall in love with Istanbul in September.
Turkey in September: Travel Tips, Weather, & More
12 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

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Insider's guide to top 10 things to do in Istanbul in September, best attractions, sights, tours, weather, climate, festivals, events advice Istanbeautiful TM. Istanbeautiful TM ... Catch summer sales at Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall and visit Sea Life Aquarium inside. Forum Istanbul is the largest Shopping and Residential Center in Europe. 495. ...
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Istanbul in fall can get a bit chilly, especially at night, and if you're visiting Istanbul in November you'll definitely want a proper coat! While it may be a bit overkill if you're only visiting Istanbul in September, near the end of fall, a wool peacoat or other similar warm jacket becomes indispensable!
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Best Times To Visit Istanbul. The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That's when crowds at the city's attractions are manageable, room rates are ...
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4. Travel insurance is a must. Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you're travelling on an e-visa (I haven't), but rules are rules nonetheless. Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur.
Best time to visit Istanbul
The long, mostly pleasant spring and fall seasons (March to May and September to November ) are ideal for seeing the sights and wandering the neighborhoods of Istanbul, a city that rewards exploration by foot. There's a drop off in tourist crowds, and local urban life is in full swing, including a busy calendar of arts and cultural events.
The 37 Best Things To Do In Istanbul In September In 2024
Take part in workshops, talks, and film screenings to deepen your understanding of modern art. 15. Pera Museum. Visit the Pera Museum, a cultural hub in Istanbul. Explore its impressive collection of Turkish and international art. Don't miss the famous Orientalist paintings and the works of Osman Hamdi Bey. 16.
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Istanbul in January. January is the quietest and cheapest month to visit Istanbul, so if you're looking for lower prices, this is the time for you. However, January is also Istanbul's coldest month, with daytime averages of around 8°C/46°F and a high chance of rain and possibly snow.
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Istanbul has a moderate climate year-round. It is generally hot and humid from mid-July to mid-August, and it can snow during January and February. The peak-season months (with the best weather) are from mid-April to June and September to October. During the off-season, you can generally find better deals and smaller crowds, the weather is ...
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Weather. While temperatures remain hot throughout Turkey in September, they tend to be less intense than in August, especially as the month progresses. Expect temperatures of around 75°F (24°C) in Istanbul and Cappadocia, and higher along the coast, at around 86°F (30°C). Average rainfall is low, but you may experience more showers and ...
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Top 10 Things to Do in Turkey in September. 1. Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul. September is the perfect month to take to the water for a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul. A private cruise to enjoy the Istanbul skyline along with the views of the Ottoman palaces and mansions from the 19th & 20 th centuries.
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Istanbul in September. September is an ideal time to visit Istanbul. The weather is pleasant with daytime temperatures around 25°C and overnight temperatures at 17°C. Long sleeves or a light jacket are recommended for the evenings.
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Top Places to Visit in Turkey in September Istanbul. The vibrant city of Istanbul is one of the most populated cities in the entire world. Its activity, energy, and constant motion are unlike any other big city in Europe. When you add the influx of tourists to the already existing population, Istanbul can become overwhelming.
Things to do in Istanbul in September
Overview. September is a great time to visit Istanbul. The weather is usually pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 66—79°F (19—26°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Istanbul during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Princes' Islands, visit the Hagia Sophia, visit the Grand Bazaar, and more!
Istanbul in September
Istanbul is a living city, all day and night long. In Istanbul, you will find many events and festivals happening throughout the year. Discover the beautiful tulips of the tulip festival, or learn more about the art events. Music festivals, too, bring a whole other layer of beauty to this culturally rich city. In this section, you can find more information about the events, their time periods ...
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The average water temperature in September in Istanbul is 23 degrees. Which is very comfortable for swimming in the sea, sunbathing and beach holidays. Throughout the month, the water in the sea warms up to 23-23.6 ° C, and only starting from the 25th day it gradually decreases. By September 30, the water temperature is already 20°C.
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What matters is stability. Indeed, until the third decade of September, Istanbul observes weather that is not prone to fluctuations and, moreover, serious failures. Because even at night the thermometers do not tend to fall below +20 °C. And during the day they keep the interval + 25-28 °C as if sewn on.
Istanbul in September 2024: Weather, What to Do, What to Pack and More
Temperature: The average temperature in Istanbul during September 2024 ranges between 21°C and 25°C. This makes it an ideal time to explore the city without the discomfort of extreme heat. Rainfall: Istanbul experiences a moderate amount of rainfall in September. On average, there are about 3 to 8 rainy days throughout the month.
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Why you should visit Istanbul in September September is a delightful time to visit Istanbul, as the summer heat begins to wane, and the city is bathed in a pleasant, temperate climate. The bustle of summer tourists starts to dwindle, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the city's rich history and culture. Additionally, September
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September 13, 2022. Enthusiastic invitation of tea cups to visitors in Istanbul, Turkey. ... Let's check out and note our 09 must-know Istanbul travel tips below for your perfect trip to Istanbul, Turkey. Turkey travel tips — 13+ dos and don'ts & what to know before visiting Turkey;
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Istanbul Weather in September: Slight drop in average daytime/overnight temperatures to 25°C/17°C (about the same as June), but reduced significantly by the end of the month. While it still may rain on some days, the drop in crowds, especially later in the month, makes this a perfect time to travel.
What to do, what to see in Istanbul, the agenda of September
September 7 - Istanbul Rooftop Festival: Istanbul's Rooftop Festival returns for the fourth year in a row, and will host more than 30,000 participants in 15 different venues. On the program more than 30 foreign and local artists in places like Spago, Mentha, Klein Garten, Georges Hotel or Bakyard and 16 Roof. ... TOO ISTANBUL is a travel ...
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Visit the Galata Tower. Rising from the historic streets of Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally constructed as a watchtower during the Byzantine era. The structure that stands ...

Istanbul in September: Weather, Attractions, Tips for 2024

Istanbul Weather in September

Top Things to Do in Istanbul in September

1. Visit the Hagia Sophia

2. Visit the Blue Mosque

3. Sit on the Top Deck of a Tourist Sightseeing Bus

4. Day Trip to the Princes’ Islands

5. Take A Trip to the Beach

6. Explore the City on a Bicycle

7. Visit Topkapi Palace

8. Sail the Bosphorus on a Cruise

9. Visit the Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar

10. Delve into History at the Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts

Festivals and Events

16th – 23rd September – Istanbul Fringe Festival

19 th – 23 rd September – Contemporary Istanbul Exhibition

Pros and Cons of Visiting Istanbul in September

Where To Stay in Istanbul in September

Tips for Visiting Istanbul in September

FAQs About Istanbul in September

Is September a good time to visit Istanbul?

Is September crowded in Istanbul?

Is September hot in Istanbul?

Before You Go

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Take a walk along the Historic Sultanahmet Square

Visit Topkapi Palace Museum

Explore the famous Basilica Cistern

Combo Tickets: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern

Buy Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern Combo Ticket

2. Tour city on Double Decker Tourist Bus

3. Enjoy the Top Festivals & Events

Enjoy the Coffee Festival, September

4. Explore the city’s popular sights on bike

5. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

6. A fantastic day out at the Princes’ Islands

7. Enjoy Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Entertainment

8. Visit Galata Tower and admire the stunning views

9. Visit Pierre Loti Hill and enjoy the impressive views of Golden Horn with Turkish Coffee

10. Catch summer sales at Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall and visit Sea Life Aquarium inside

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What to Wear in Istanbul in Each Season (Women’s Packing List)

What to Wear in Istanbul in Summer (June, July, August)

Summer dresses

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A denim jacket or chambray shirt

Comfortable shoes

A summer hat

What to Wear in Istanbul in Fall (September, October, November)

A coat or jacket

Long sleeve dresses

Long sleeve sweaters

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What to Wear in Istanbul in Winter (December, January, February)

Jeans and leggings

Sweater dresses

Winter coat

Winter hat, scarf, and gloves

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Raincoat or trench coat

Waterproof boots

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