Signs of summer are appearing all over Turkey. For me, that is a welcome change after five months of wearing two jumpers and pacing around my flat as if the Antarctic had moved in next door.
Those early warm days have put a big smile on my face, so I put together a brief guide describing what to expect from the weather of Turkey through the year.
Disclaimer – This weather report is based on my personal experience and should be used as a guideline rather than an absolute forecast. Weather can change, so bring appropriate clothing and travel insurance. I can’t be held responsible if the sun burns you or the rain spoils your plans.
My Turkey Weather Guide
April: The sun starts to return and you can comfortably wear a t-shirt and shorts during the day, though pools remain chilly unless you have nerves of steel. I usually spend a lazy afternoon in the sun with a cold beer, and then regret it because I forget to drink enough water and end up with a headache. Nights are still cool, so remember a jumper for the evenings.
May: Summer officially begins and tourists arrive in larger numbers. Beaches fill up and you’ll see more skin than at a pageant. Mosquitoes also wake up, so packing insect repellent or choosing drinks containing quinine can help keep them away. Days are warm and pleasant, making it one of the best months to enjoy outdoor cafés and coastal walks.
June: Local summer holidays start too, so beaches and resorts get busier. If you can grab an empty spot on the sand, consider yourself lucky; otherwise pools are a good alternative. If you get sunburnt, a traditional home remedy many locals use is plain natural yogurt, which soothes irritated skin until you can properly treat it.
July: Temperatures climb and it can feel like being roasted in an oven. Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and deodorant are essential. Evenings stay warm and long, and lighter meals such as salads become the norm to avoid overheating during dinner.
August: This is often the hottest month. Work can feel exhausting in the heat and many people adopt a siesta-style rhythm to avoid the midday sun. Sunglasses become indispensable, and it’s common to wear them constantly to avoid squinting in bright light.
September: Heat lingers early in the month but gradually eases toward the end of September. You may find yourself using air conditioning more, and many people choose to refresh their look for the cooler season. Overall it’s still a pleasant time to visit, with warm days and milder evenings as autumn approaches.
October: Temperatures drop to a very comfortable level, making it ideal for visitors who prefer milder weather. Crowds thin out and the atmosphere becomes more relaxed. Nights cool down earlier, so you’ll want light layers and a jumper for the evenings.