Turkey Weather by Month

Turkey, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has a highly diverse geography that greatly influences its weather patterns. It is bordered by eight countries, including Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Iran, Iraq, and Syria, and is surrounded by three major bodies of water: the Mediterranean Sea to the south, the Aegean Sea to the west, and the Black Sea to the north. The country’s unique position between two continents and its varied topography—ranging from coastal plains to mountain ranges—creates a wide range of climates.

The country’s terrain is largely mountainous, with the Taurus Mountains in the south, the Pontic Mountains in the north, and the Anatolian Plateau at its center. Coastal regions experience Mediterranean or oceanic climates, while the interior is characterized by a more continental climate with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Turkey’s climate varies from region to region, and the weather can be vastly different from the coastal areas to the interior plains and mountainous regions.

Turkey Weather by Month

January

General Overview

• Average temperature: 3°C to 13°C (37°F to 55°F)
• Rainfall: Rainy on the coasts, heavy snow in the interior

January is the heart of winter in Turkey, and the weather varies greatly depending on the region. Coastal areas along the Aegean and Mediterranean experience milder, rainy winters, while the Black Sea coast remains cold and wet. The central and eastern parts of Turkey, particularly in the Anatolian Plateau and eastern highlands, experience harsh winter conditions with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall. Istanbul can be cold and rainy, with occasional snow.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast (Izmir, Bodrum): Mild and rainy, temperatures between 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F)
• Mediterranean Coast (Antalya, Alanya): Mild with occasional rain, temperatures between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
• Central Turkey (Ankara, Cappadocia): Cold with snow, temperatures between -3°C to 5°C (27°F to 41°F)
• Eastern Turkey (Erzurum, Kars): Very cold with heavy snow, temperatures between -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F)
• Black Sea Coast (Trabzon, Samsun): Cool and rainy, temperatures between 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F)

January is ideal for skiing in the mountains of eastern Turkey and Cappadocia, but coastal regions are more suitable for those seeking mild winter escapes.

February

General Overview

• Average temperature: 3°C to 14°C (37°F to 57°F)
• Rainfall: Cold and wet, with snow continuing in the interior

February remains cold across much of Turkey, especially in the central and eastern regions, where snow continues to fall. The coastal areas along the Mediterranean and Aegean seas remain relatively mild, though rain showers are common. In Istanbul, temperatures hover around freezing, and there may be occasional snow. Eastern Turkey experiences some of the coldest temperatures of the year, while the Black Sea coast remains wet and cool.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Mild and rainy, temperatures between 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Mild with some rain, temperatures between 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F)
• Central Turkey: Cold with continued snowfall, temperatures between -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Frigid with snow, temperatures between -12°C to -2°C (10°F to 28°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool and rainy, temperatures between 4°C to 10°C (39°F to 50°F)

February is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts heading to the mountains, while coastal regions remain mild but wet.

March

General Overview

• Average temperature: 5°C to 17°C (41°F to 63°F)
• Rainfall: Transition to spring with less snow and more rain

March marks the beginning of spring in Turkey, although winter still holds on in the central and eastern regions. Snow begins to melt, especially in the west, and temperatures rise slightly across the country. Coastal regions see more rain as the snow subsides, and central Turkey remains chilly but starts to thaw. In Istanbul, the weather becomes more unpredictable, with rain showers mixed with sunny days.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Warmer with rain, temperatures between 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Mild with occasional showers, temperatures between 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F)
• Central Turkey: Cold but starting to warm, temperatures between 1°C to 9°C (34°F to 48°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Cold with some snow, temperatures between -5°C to 3°C (23°F to 37°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool and wet, temperatures between 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F)

March is a transition month where the weather begins to shift toward spring, making it ideal for those who prefer mild conditions but can handle occasional rain.

April

General Overview

• Average temperature: 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)
• Rainfall: More spring rain, but warmer days

April is full spring in Turkey, with warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, particularly in the coastal regions. Central Turkey, including Ankara and Cappadocia, experiences milder days, though temperatures can still be cool at night. The western and southern coasts, especially around the Aegean and Mediterranean, enjoy more pleasant, sunny days, making this an excellent time for outdoor activities. The mountains continue to see some snow, though it is starting to melt in lower elevations.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Warm with spring rains, temperatures between 12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Mild and sunny with showers, temperatures between 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F)
• Central Turkey: Mild with rain, temperatures between 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Cool with melting snow, temperatures between 1°C to 10°C (34°F to 50°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Rainy with occasional sun, temperatures between 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F)

April is great for visiting Turkey’s historical sites and natural wonders, especially as the weather becomes more favorable for travel.

May

General Overview

• Average temperature: 14°C to 25°C (57°F to 77°F)
• Rainfall: Warmer and drier, with occasional spring showers

May is the gateway to summer in Turkey, and the weather is significantly warmer and drier across most regions. Coastal areas along the Aegean and Mediterranean begin to feel summerlike, with sunny skies and warmer temperatures. The central plateau also experiences warmer days, though spring rains still occur, particularly in the northern and eastern regions. Istanbul enjoys pleasant weather, making it a perfect time for sightseeing before the summer heat arrives.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Warm and sunny, temperatures between 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Hot and mostly dry, temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F)
• Central Turkey: Mild with occasional rain, temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Mild with some rain, temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool with rain showers, temperatures between 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F)

May is perfect for exploring Turkey’s beaches and ancient ruins, with ideal weather across most regions.

June

General Overview

• Average temperature: 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F)
• Rainfall: Start of the dry summer season, with warm weather

June marks the beginning of the summer season in Turkey, especially in coastal areas, where temperatures begin to rise significantly. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are warm and sunny, making this one of the best months for beach vacations. Inland areas like Cappadocia also experience warmer temperatures, and rain becomes less frequent across the country. The Black Sea coast remains relatively cooler and wetter, but overall, the weather is much more stable.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Hot and dry, with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Hot and sunny, with temperatures between 22°C to 31°C (72°F to 88°F)
• Central Turkey: Warm and dry, temperatures between 14°C to 26°C (57°F to 79°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Warm with occasional showers, temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cooler and wet, temperatures between 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F)

June is ideal for beach vacations, hiking in the interior, and exploring Turkey’s historic sites under clear, sunny skies.

July

General Overview

• Average temperature: 21°C to 35°C (70°F to 95°F)
• Rainfall: Dry and hot, with peak summer temperatures

July is one of the hottest months in Turkey, particularly along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, where temperatures can soar. Coastal cities like Antalya and Izmir experience hot, sunny days, making it prime beach weather. Central Turkey, including Ankara and Cappadocia, also experiences hot, dry conditions, while the Black Sea region remains cooler but still relatively humid. Rain is rare across most of the country, making July ideal for outdoor activities.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Hot and dry, temperatures between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Very hot with clear skies, temperatures between 27°C to 35°C (81°F to 95°F)
• Central Turkey: Hot and dry, temperatures between 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Warm to hot, with temperatures between 12°C to 27°C (54°F to 81°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Warm and wet, temperatures between 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F)

July is perfect for beachgoers, though visitors to inland regions should prepare for hot, dry conditions.

August

General Overview

• Average temperature: 23°C to 36°C (73°F to 97°F)
• Rainfall: Very hot and dry, with little to no rainfall

August is the hottest month of the year in Turkey, especially along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Beach resorts are packed with tourists enjoying the hot, dry weather. Central Turkey also experiences scorching temperatures, though the lack of humidity makes it more bearable. Eastern Turkey and the Black Sea coast remain cooler than the rest of the country, but the entire nation is predominantly dry with little rain.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Extremely hot and dry, temperatures between 26°C to 36°C (79°F to 97°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Very hot with clear skies, temperatures between 28°C to 36°C (82°F to 97°F)
• Central Turkey: Hot and dry, temperatures between 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Warm and dry, temperatures between 15°C to 29°C (59°F to 84°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Warm with occasional rain, temperatures between 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)

August is perfect for sunbathing and swimming along the coasts, but travelers should be prepared for extreme heat inland.

September

General Overview

• Average temperature: 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F)
• Rainfall: Warm and dry, with temperatures starting to cool

September is the beginning of autumn in Turkey, though it still feels like summer in many regions. Coastal areas remain warm, but the intense summer heat starts to subside, making this an ideal month for beach vacations without the crowds. Inland areas, including central Turkey, experience cooler evenings and comfortable days, while the Black Sea coast continues to see mild, wet conditions. The rain increases slightly, particularly in the north, but overall, September is warm and dry.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Warm and dry, temperatures between 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Hot and sunny, temperatures between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)
• Central Turkey: Warm with cooler nights, temperatures between 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Mild with some rain, temperatures between 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool and wet, temperatures between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F)

September is ideal for those looking to enjoy warm beach weather and explore Turkey’s interior before the autumn chill sets in.

October

General Overview

• Average temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
• Rainfall: Cooler with increasing rainfall, especially in the north

October is the full onset of autumn in Turkey, with cooler temperatures across the country. The coastal areas are still pleasant, though cooler than the summer months, making it a great time for sightseeing and cultural visits. Central Turkey experiences cool, crisp air, and the mountains begin to see the first signs of snow. Rainfall increases, particularly along the Black Sea and in northern regions, but southern Turkey remains relatively dry and warm.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Warm with some rain, temperatures between 17°C to 24°C (63°F to 75°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Mild and sunny, with temperatures between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F)
• Central Turkey: Cool and dry, temperatures between 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Cool with occasional snow, temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Rainy and cool, temperatures between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)

October is ideal for exploring Turkey’s historical sites, trekking in the mountains, and visiting the interior regions.

November

General Overview

• Average temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
• Rainfall: Cooler and wet, with the start of winter in the east

November brings cooler weather across Turkey as winter approaches. The coastal areas of the Aegean and Mediterranean experience cooler, wetter conditions, though the temperatures remain mild compared to the interior. Central Turkey becomes chilly, particularly at night, while eastern Turkey sees the first significant snowfall. The Black Sea coast remains rainy, but the overall weather is suitable for sightseeing in major cities like Istanbul and Izmir.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Mild and wet, with temperatures between 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Cooler and rainy, with temperatures between 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F)
• Central Turkey: Cool with occasional rain, temperatures between 6°C to 14°C (43°F to 57°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Cold with snow, temperatures between 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Wet and cool, temperatures between 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F)

November is perfect for those looking to explore Turkey’s cities without the heat, though coastal resorts are quieter due to the cooler, wetter weather.

December

General Overview

• Average temperature: 5°C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F)
• Rainfall: Cold and wet, with snow in the interior

December marks the beginning of winter in Turkey, with cold and wet weather in most regions. Coastal areas experience cool, rainy conditions, while central and eastern Turkey are much colder, with snowfall in the highlands and mountains. Istanbul experiences cold rain with occasional snow, and eastern Turkey becomes a winter wonderland with heavy snowfall, especially in the mountains.

Regional Differences

• Aegean Coast: Cool and rainy, with temperatures between 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F)
• Mediterranean Coast: Cool with rain showers, temperatures between 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F)
• Central Turkey: Cold with snow, temperatures between 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F)
• Eastern Turkey: Very cold with heavy snow, temperatures between -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool and wet, with temperatures between 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F)

December is ideal for winter sports in eastern Turkey, but the cooler, wetter weather makes it less suitable for coastal visits.

Summary of Turkey’s Climate by Region

Aegean Coast (Izmir, Bodrum)

• Best months: April to October (warm and dry)
• Hottest months: July and August (very hot)
• Coolest months: December to February (mild and rainy)

Mediterranean Coast (Antalya, Alanya)

• Best months: May to October (hot and dry)
• Hottest months: July and August (scorching temperatures)
• Coolest months: December to February (cool and rainy)

Central Turkey (Ankara, Cappadocia)

• Best months: April to June, September to October (mild and pleasant)
• Hottest months: July and August (hot and dry)
• Coldest months: December to February (cold and snowy)

Eastern Turkey (Erzurum, Kars)

• Best months: May to September (cool and pleasant)
• Coldest months: November to March (frigid with heavy snow)

Black Sea Coast (Trabzon, Samsun)

• Best months: June to September (warm with some rain)
• Coolest months: December to February (cold and rainy)

Turkey’s weather varies greatly depending on the region and season. The coastal areas experience hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, while the interior and eastern regions experience more extreme temperature variations with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The best time to visit Turkey depends on the activities planned, with spring and autumn offering the most moderate and pleasant weather across the country.