best place to visit in turkey in january

Wander-Lush

14 Magical Places to Visit in Turkey in Winter

Planning an off-season adventure in Turkey (Türkiye)? Here are 14 wonderful places to visit in winter, all with special cold-weather activities and magical snowy landscapes.

From ski resorts and winter hot balloon rides to soaking in open-air hot springs, there are plenty of things to do in Turkey in winter.

Wander the streets of Istanbul with the locals, indulge in a soul-warming hammam treatment, hit the slopes or explore far-flung archaeological sites without the crowds.

It might be the off season, but Turkey’s coastal towns never lose their sparkle, while the country’s natural wonders take on a new kind of radiance: All frozen lakes, ice-crested mountains and snow-dusted caves.

Winter in Turkey is a special treat and something you won’t soon forget. Here are the top 14 winter-approved places to visit.

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.

Turkey winter essentials

• Apply for a tourist visa to visit Turkey: Use iVisa to check your requirements and apply for an expedited visa online.
• Where to stay in Turkey: Find a cosy guesthouse or winter cabin on Booking.com .
• Top winter experience: Take a hot air balloon flight over snowy Cappadocia .
• Rent a car in Turkey: Use Local Rent to find a budget-friendly rental from a local agent.

14 best places to visit in Turkey in winter

1. istanbul.

Turkey’s largest city is the ultimate winter city break destination . When the weather is cold and there are very few people on the streets, Istanbul’s year-round treasure trove of attractions and special experiences comes into its own. Popular landmarks in this eternally beautiful city that are crowded during summer will be fairly empty in winter – so take advantage of that.

Istanbul offers an array of places to visit, from fascinating museums to tranquil gardens and busy bazaars. There are far too many amazing restaurants and cafes where you can indulge in Turkish delicacies to list. Start every morning as the locals do with a steaming cup of Turkish coffee, a UNESCO-Listed culinary tradition .

Istanbul’s fortresses and cisterns retell the history of the city and its complex heritage. Among the places in Istanbul you must visit are its historic mosques, the Hagia Sophia, Ortakoy Mosque and Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Taksim, the Basilica Cistern, Galata Tower , the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and of course the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.

At the end of a big day of sightseeing, wind down and warm up with a trip to the world-famous Turkish baths.

2. Cappadocia

Thanks to its beautiful landscapes, captivating history and bucket-list-worthy hot air balloon rides, Cappadocia remains one of Turkey’s top attractions throughout the winter months.

Visitors to Cappadocia in winter may well find it more enjoyable than in summer when crowds flock to the region and temperatures sky rocket. There is usually a lot of snow in Cappadocia from late November until early March, adding to the atmosphere.

Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes crafted from centuries of volcanic eruptions are unforgettable. Regardless of the time of year, this rugged and yet serene backdrop is extraordinary. Those with an adventurous spirit will find Cappadocia’s dry climate conducive to hiking.

When you visit Cappadocia, cave hotels are the place to stay . Cappadocians built their underground cities many thousands of years ago and now there are a large variety of romantic and cosy hotels nestled in the landscape. Cappadocian cuisine is perfect for winter, especially the clay pot kebabs.

3. Ani, one of the most underrated places to visit in Turkey in winter

One of the country’s lesser-visited tourist attractions, Ani is another place in Turkey that really turns on the charm in the colder months. Located in the country’s far-east, Ani is an old Armenian city at the border of Turkey and Armenia , just a 40-minute drive from Kars.

A highlight of the Ani Ruins is the many grand medieval Armenian churches , which mirror those seen in modern-day Armenian cities such as Gyumri . You’ll soon see why Ani was nicknamed the ‘City of One Thousand and One Churches and Forty Gates’.

Summer might be the peak season, but it isn’t really the ideal time to visit Ani. Instead, it’s much more powerful to witness these ancient ruins atop snow-covered hills during winter. When in Kars Province, don’t miss a trip to the frozen Lake Cildir.

4. Lake Cildir

An easy day trip from Kars or a whistle stop on the Dogu Express route, Lake Cildir (‘the lake of shadows’) is one of Turkey’s most quintessential winter destinations. Much like the nearby Javakheti Plateau just over the border in Georgia, which will soon be connected to this region by passenger train services , this area experiences Arctic-like conditions.

Frozen for up to eight months of the year, Lake Cildir is a place where you can experience winter-wonderland landscapes in autumn and throughout spring. Popular cold-weather activities here include ice fishing and troika rides in a horse-pulled sleigh. You can even hire a bicycle and cycle on the ice – it’s that thick!

Don’t miss Gunay Canli Alabalik , a restaurant on the eastern side of the Cildir that serves fresh fish caught from the lake.

5. Ishak Pasha Palace

The climate in eastern Agri Province is unforgiving, with very hot summers and bitterly cold winters. But it’s well worth braving the chill for Ishak Pasha Palace: This historical landmark captures everything that makes Turkey in winter beautiful.

Despite centuries of abandonment, the Ottoman palace continues to stand proud atop its cliff. Over 400 years after the sprawling palace was built by generations of the Pasha family, its classical arches and domes still survive as a testament to their ingenuity.

Visit the palace to gaze upon its legendary facade. You might recognise it from the 100 Turkish lira bill. Ishak Pasha Palace really is an icon of Turkish culture and looks especially regal ensconced in crisp white snow.

6. Pamukkale

Another Turkish winter gem to visit is Pamukkale, the ‘Cotton Castle’. A popular destination throughout the year, this is the place to experience nature at its finest. 

First used as a spa resort by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, Pamukkale’s naturally toasty water is the perfect salve for cold feet. The thermal waters that overflow from the stacked travertine terraces are rich in minerals and cast beautiful shapes and patterns as they cascade down.

While Pamukkale tends to be rather cold in winter, there are still plenty of activities to do and things to see, including the Greco-Roman ruins at Hierapolis and Cleopatra’s Pool.

The ancient city of Ephesus is one of Turkey’s most well-known archaeological sites and by far the most-visited historical attraction during summer. This is due to the fact that cruise ships dock in nearby Kusadasi, welcoming thousands of tourists every day.

While still popular in the winter season, the crowds at Ephesus are considerably less than in the summer months, which means you’ll have more breathing room to enjoy the ancient ruins and hike the surrounding hills.

History buffs shouldn’t hesitate to plan their winter holidays in Ephesus. The ruins – including a magnificent old theatre with room for 25,000 spectators, the Library of Celsus that once held 22,000 scrolls, and beautiful Byzantine mosaics – have to be seen in person to be believed.

8. The Kackar Mountains

With some of the most magnificent hiking trails in the world, the Kackar Mountains are a sight for sore eyes with their snow-capped peaks and dramatic cliffs – and a reminder that some of the most beautiful places in Turkey are found in nature.

Located behind the Black Sea Coast and the tea region of Rize, the mountain slopes are steep, partly wooded, and perfect for ski tours in winter. Several rolling alpine pastures offer great downhill runs.

The highest point of the Kackar range is almost 4,000 metres above sea level. It’s very cold in winter, however the area remains alive with wildlife throughout the season and it’s not uncommon to see bears and cubs when out on the slopes.

The first thing that comes to mind for many people when thinking of Bolu Province – located midway between Istanbul and Ankara – are its pretty small towns and vernacular Ottoman architecture. But this region also boasts stunning nature that transforms with the changing seasons.

A short drive from the Turkish capital, Bolu becomes a favourite destination for weekend getaways as soon as summer comes to an end. By autumn, the city is swimming in a sea of amber and rust and come winter, it is covered in a blanket of snow.

Around Lake Abant , a stunning freshwater lake in Yedigoller National Park, you can appreciate nature’s brilliant colours, while nearby Kartalkaya has ski slopes to please even the most discerning of winter sports enthusiasts. There are dozens of tiny chalets where you can rest and relax as well.

10. The Uludag Mountains

Home to one of Turkey’s most famous ski resorts, the Uludag Mountains boast 28 kilometres of slopes for beginner and experienced skiers. The majority of visitors ascend the mountain via the Uludag cable car, which takes approximately 25 minutes and spans 9 kilometres, making it the longest in Turkey.

Ski season is obviously the most popular time to visit Uludag, with skiing and snowboarding attracting many locals and international tourists alike. Even if you’re not a skier, there are lots of things to do beyond the slopes. A snow safari is a great way to soak up this winter-wonderful landscape without donning skis.

Don’t miss a day trip to Cumalikizik , located at the foot of the mountain near Bursa. This village is beloved for its 270 rubble stone and wood houses, many perfectly preserved or lovingly restored. Kids and adults alike will love wandering through this living ethnography museum.

11. Aladaglar National Park

Writing of Aladaglar, the Greek geographer and philosopher Strabo said that ‘the summit was never free from snow’. This is one place in Turkey where you’re guaranteed to see snow year-round – and on a clear day, views of both the Black Sea and the Mediterranean!

Spread over four provinces in central Turkey, Aladaglar National Park is home to one of the country’s most important mountain ranges, the Ala-Daglar or crimson mountains, so-called because of the brilliant scarlet flush that falls on the peaks at sunset.

Also nicknamed ‘The Alps of Turkey’, this is prime hiking territory. In the winter months, many of the park’s prettiest landscapes, including its spring lakes and waterfalls, take on a striking appearance. The seven cliff-face Kapuzbasi Waterfalls and surrounding glacier ponds are best viewed in the warmer months, but can also be visited in winter.

Firmly a summer destination famed for its stunning beaches, Izmir takes on a different kind of beauty in winter low season. The streets of this bustling port city on the Aegean Coast are largely empty during the winter months because most people (sensibly!) retreat indoors.

Even in the depths of winter, Izmir’s Alsancak market remains bustling and the streets of Alacati retain their charm. Balcova district offers a special winter experience: Thermal baths and hot springs set in gorgeous forest.

Turkish culture attaches a lot of importance to bathing. Since ancient times, it’s been used as a social activity. Take an afternoon spa treatment at one of the centres in Balcova and see for yourself why this activity is a local’s favourite during the depths of winter.

South-east Turkey’s Mardin Province is a repository of history, archaeology and religious heritage. Located on a rocky outcrop floating above the flat Mesopotamian plain, the regional capital of Mardin is a sight to behold at any time of year.

Fashioned from locally mined ecru-coloured limestone, the city is in perfect harmony with its surrounding landscape. A dusting of powder – not uncommon here during chilly winters as temperatures drop down to the single digits – only adds to the effect. Despite the cold conditions, Mardin is known for its warming sunshine, which makes it a great winter destination.

Mardin is bristling with intriguing architecture, including many 11th-12th century monuments associated with the Artuqid Dynasty. Walk to the top of the ridge for stunning views from the citadel – on a clear December day, you might be able to see all the way to the Syrian or Iraqi borders – then wander the streets, visiting some of the historic madrasa schools.

Take note of the peculiar vernacular houses with their sloping facades and big courtyards, and keep an ear out for the sound of the Syrian Orthodox silversmiths’ hammers rising and falling in rhythm from within their workshops.

One of the major cities in north-west Turkey, Bursa has a huge variety of attractions to satiate curious tourists . Sitting at the foot of the Uludag range, it has an enviable backdrop of spectacular mountains. The city itself is nicknamed ‘Green Bursa’ because of its many parks and gardens. And here’s one for the foodies : The famous Iskender kebab comes from this area!

Bursa was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for many historical sites including the Ulu Cami, the Yildirim Bazaar and Karagoz Museum. It has an equally picturesque appearance throughout the summer and winter months, and loads of indoor and outdoor activities on offer.

Don’t miss the 20-domed Great Mosque, which has been a fixture of Bursa since the 14th century, or the Bosnian-Turkish Friendship Fountain, a replica of the Sebilj in Sarajevo Old Town .

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 travel ideas

• Visiting Bulgaria in winter
• Bulgaria road trip itinerary
• Balkans road trip itineraries
• Greece road trip routes
• Europe train travel itineraries
• Things to do in Bucharest, Romania in winter
• Things to do in Zagreb, Croatia in winter

Hi Emily, thank you for this great recs! I’m planning to travel to Turkey soon, but I’m worried that the high inflation would be a problem. Did you have any problems on this when travelling there?

Hi Samantha – not at all. Turkey is extremely affordable right now. Here is my Istanbul budget to give you an idea of prices (written in June 2022): https://wander-lush.org/istanbul-travel-budget-costs/

Safe travels!

Hi Emily, thanks!

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All Destinations , Turkey

12 magical places to visit in turkey in winter.

Turkey is one of my favourite countries. It’s famed for its dreamy beach destinations on the Mediterranean coast and the fascinating metropolis of Istanbul.

But honestly, Turkey is so much more.

There are so many places in Turkey that you could spend years visiting them.

The balloons of Cappadocia, the ruins of Ephesus, and the beaches of Marmaris are just a few!

But what’s it like to visit Turkey in winter?

I’ve been to Turkey four times, and actually, three of them just so happened to be during winter. I didn’t necessarily plan these trips; it was just the convenient time to visit.

I was drawn in the very first time I went to Turkey in winter, though – I stumbled upon a magical world, full of snow-covered valleys, cosy cafes with Turkish tea in hand, and after a cold day’s sightseeing, I would find a hammam to defrost in!

But it’s important to remember that Turkey is a huge country – and there’s another side to Turkey in winter.

If you head to the Mediterranean coast, temperatures are pleasant – not what they are in the summer by any means, but warm enough to sit outside and enjoy the sunshine!

So, whether you are after some winter sun or a snowy winter wonderland, Turkey may be the answer.

When it comes to winter weather, it is very much the definition of the best of both worlds.

As I haven’t been everywhere in Turkey in the winter yet, I have enlisted some of my fellow travel bloggers to help me write this blog post.

Together, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to visit in Turkey in the winter!

Places to Visit in Turkey in Winter

Cappadocia in winter is absolutely incredible – it’s possibly the number one place to visit in Turkey during this season.

Located in the Taurus Mountains region of Anatolia, Cappadocia is a desert-like landscape punctuated by cave houses. It is most famous for its hot air balloons, which float up in the sky at dawn every day – even in winter.

During winter, the thermometer drops to temperatures well below freezing, leaving the entire landscape coated with a layer of snow.

And what a landscape it is – weathering, erosion, and volcanic eruptions over the years all created this unique backdrop of canyons, gorges, and caves.

These caves came in particularly useful for the early Christians who wanted to hide from Roman persecution.

Many of these caves are surprisingly well-preserved, with Byzantine paintings on the walls and rock still intact.

The best place to learn about this fascinating history is at the Goreme Museum.

Of course, all of this is open during the winter!

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Cappadocia, a cave hotel is a must.

While these caves are made to stay cool in summer and warm in winter, there was something special about retiring to my cave when the weather was cold outside.

I reached cosiness levels that I don’t think I would have found in the summer!

Hotel Recommendation – I stayed in the Dervish Cave House – check it out here . 

Istanbul is one of my favourite cities in the world. It’s got a phenomenal history spanning back through the centuries – did you know it used to be called Constantinople and was the last Roman city?

I’ve been to Istanbul on all of my trips to Turkey (and I love it a little more every time).

So, I’ve experienced it in winter and summer, and Istanbul in winter is definitely my preference.

One of the main reasons for this is because it’s not everyone else’s preference!

In the winter, the lines to the main tourist attractions are short, whereas in the summer, I waited 90 minutes to go up the Galata Tower, and I left the Grand Bazaar after 10 minutes because of the crowding.

In the winter, it’s not like that at all – I experienced barely any queuing to get into the Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque, and taking the metro was an easy, stress-free process.

Then there’s the fact that hotels in Istanbul are way cheaper in winter.

I paid $25 per night for a really nice hotel with breakfast in November, compared to over $50 per night for a not so great hotel with no breakfast in July.

Hotel recommendation – by far the best hotel I have stayed in Istanbul (for the best price!) has been the Pera Centre Hotel and Spa – check it out here .

Istanbul is hot in the summer and cool and dry in the winter.

You will need a coat if you’re visiting Istanbul in the dead of winter, but there is a high chance that you’ll experience some winter sun, and will be able to enjoy a freshly pressed orange juice (the best drink ever, by the way) al fresco.

But even if the weather isn’t the best – most people don’t come to Istanbul for the weather.

All of the Istanbul attractions are open in the winter, and you can spend your day mosque hopping, visiting museums, and browsing markets to your heart’s content – occasionally stopping off for a Turkish tea, of course!

Lycian Tombs around Fethiye  

The town of Fethiye, on the Mediterranean, is far enough south to enjoy many sunny, warm days during winter.

While it isn’t really the weather for a leisurely swim, you can enjoy daytime temperatures in the low-mid 20s (Celsius), with more sunshine hours than in northern Europe. The mild climate makes it a perfect time to explore the surroundings of the city. Fethiye is located in the centre of the Lycian Way, which connects intriguing, archaeological sights of this often-overlooked ancient culture. 

You can get a glimpse of the 2400 year old Lycian Amintas Rock Tombs from the old town, right in the city.

The tombs are chiselled into a sheer vertical rock-face, and extensively decorated with freezes and free-standing columns – a truly royal appearance. 

Hire a car and discover other treasures of the region! Lycian relics are found as far north as Damian, and south to Antalya. When you visit, don’t miss the Hadrian Castle Gate and the excellent Antalya Museum .

The city of Fethiye is a popular summer holiday destination.

It has an international airport and accommodation of all standards. In winter it’s easy to find a vacancy for little money. You will find some nightlife year-round.

The waterfront promenade is lined with tea houses and restaurants, where locals enjoy the winter sun over a drink, accompanied by live music on weekends.

Contributed by Juergen from Dare 2 Go

Bursa is an amazing place during winter that you should definitely visit.

The city is located in the northwestern part of Turkey and it is one of the most populous cities in the country.

While the city is great at all times of the year, it is especially popular in winter, with a very popular skiing resort located in the mountain Uludağ next to the city.

You can get there by using the almost 9 kilometres long gondola or by driving there.

This is an ideal place for skiing and snowboarding because there are about 25 slopes.

These slopes range in difficulty, so whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can enjoy it here! 

Furthermore, there are many hotels, restaurants, clubs, shops, and many other facilities, so you can easily stay here for a couple of days.

Besides skiing and snowboarding, there is more to do in Bursa!

Another tip is to check out one of the thermal baths of the city.

These baths contain water from the mountain that is rich in minerals and very warm.

It is a great place for relaxation.

Another great thing about Bursa is the beautiful scenery around the town – it looks especially breathtaking when it is snowing!

By Dymphe from Dymabroad

Troy is famous in Greek mythology for the Battle of Troy, where the Greeks used a Trojan Horse to end a ten-year war.

The story of Odysseus and a select force of men hiding in the horse is famously told in Homer’s Iliad.

The ancient site was buried for many years until German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann made the first excavations in the 1870s. 

It has 4,000 years of history to explore year-round at one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.

An advantage of visiting Troy in the winter is smaller crowds – and less of a wait to climb inside the recreation of the Trojan Horse.

Pro tip: If you’re in a group, give your phone or camera to someone to snap a photo of you with your head popping out of the giant wooden horse! 

Troy is included in the itinerary of many package tours that visit other famous Turkish sites like Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Cappadocia.

Many of these tours begin and end in Istanbul .

Another advantage of visiting Turkey in winter is that you can potentially book a tour last minute, with significant savings.

By Alex Kallimanis at Wanderlust Marriage 

The hot water springs at Pamukkale have been soothing aching limbs since Roman times.

The natural thermal baths that pepper the windswept region of the Anatolian wilderness have slowly dripped down the mountainside creating a solid calcium carbonate as they cool.

The result is the dramatic white calcite pools of Pamukkale – one of the best things to do in Turkey in winter.  

In this hot but  beautiful part of Turkey , strolling around the ancient crumbling city is best done in the cool of winter.

Visit the well-preserved theatre standing proudly amongst the swaying golden grasses, illuminated by the soft winter sun.

At the end of a day exploring, soak in the (rebuilt) thermal baths before catching one of the most remarkable sunsets in Turkey.  

Entry to the site is only possible during opening hours, however, you’re free to leave anytime you like. Enjoy a drink watching the sunset over the calcite pools, then finish the day by strolling downhill to the modern town where all the accommodation is located.

Unusually for Turkey, the price of food and drink within the complex is extortionate so bring your own supplies with you.  

If you are looking for snow-covered cities to explore, Ankara, Turkey’s capital, is one of the best places to visit in Turkey in winter.

Even though Ankara is not a common destination in Turkey among travellers, the city offers plenty of activities even in winter.

It’s an ideal place for history and architecture lovers, as the town is home to plenty of ancient sights left from the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman eras.

Start your exploration by wandering through its historical neighbourhood with well maintained typical Ottoman white houses.

The pass through the neighbourhood leads to Ankara Castle offering splendid views of red-rooftop houses.

One must-visit place in Ankara is the mausoleum of Ataturk, called Anitkabir.

With its museum, a burial area, and a garden, the site tells a detailed story of the former ruler of Turkey many locals admire.

Museum-lovers can pay a visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to learn more about this part of Turkey, learn about how prisoners lived in the former Uluncanlar Prison Museum, or see the daily lives of Turks in the past centuries at the Ethnography Museum.

By Baia from Red Fedora Diary

Whether you like nature or history, you will need at least 3-4 days to see everything Antalya has to offer. Antalya is the perfect winter destination for many reasons.

If you go to Antalya in winter, you can visit Kaleiçi (the old town) where you’ll find the famous Hadrian’s gate, and also have the chance to buy souvenirs and enjoy the local food.

Next, you could visit the Antalya Archeological Museum, where you’ll learn about the history of the city.

Just a few miles away, you’ll find the famous Lara beach.

When planning your trip to Antalya, make sure to have an extra day to visit the Perge, a historical site outside of Antalya. It is easily accessible by metro and definitely worth it.

By Robin from  Everything Yoga Retreat

The Eastern Express Train to Kars

This is just one of the multitude of delightful experiences aboard a trip on the Turkish Railways Eastern Express (Doğu Express) from Ankara to far eastern Turkey.

And winter is the best time to take this route – the frosted, snow-covered landscape is magical.

The train features special stops for off-train excursions. Kars, at the end of the line, is known for Russian-era stone buildings, fantastic cheeses and the nearby incredible ruins at Ani .

The journey begins in Turkey’s capital city, Ankara, which is easily reached by high-speed train from Istanbul, or by the excellent Turkish bus network from other cities.

The touristic train features sleeping wagons and a restaurant car, while the regular train has couchettes.

The scenery is the same, so the decision on which train is a budgetary one.

By Douglas from Rails Tales

Yedigöller National Park

This fantastic woodland – which sits between Instanbul and Ankara- is like something straight out of a novel.

In summer, the colossal trees, flowing waters, and diverse flora create a perfect environment for picnics and camping.

However, in winter, it becomes a magical world of white that pulls you into hiking, photography and enjoying the curious presence of wildlife like deer, foxes, and squirrels. The Yedigöller National Park is for travellers who want a serene place where they can connect with life and enjoy great sightseeing.

Winter is a better time to visit because visitors are fewer, the park is freer, and the enchanting appearance of the place leaves an unforgettable memory.

But, it’s actually a really significant place within Turkey, as it is the home of Sufism, a mystical form of Islam.

The Whirling Dervishes come from this area of Turkey, but it’s actually surprisingly difficult to catch a show here.

When I visited last January, they were only available on Saturdays. Konya is also famed for selling high-quality carpets and an array of different Turkish sweets!

We also snagged the best ever deal in Konya – the five-star Bayir Diamond Hotel and Convention Center was less than $50 per night.

Hotel Recommendation – The 5* great value hotel was the Bayir Diamond Hotel and Convention Centre – check it out here .

Although very suitable for a summer destination, Izmir is beautiful in every season.

The city is a great winter destination not only due to mild weather – days can get windy and wet, but mild sunshine winter days are a delight – but also because few tourists come during the winter months, allowing visitors to experience the authentic facets of this beautiful city.

the locals. 

Ancient history enthusiasts should by no means miss the well preserved Izmir Agora, while more recent history buffs will enjoy a visit at the Ataturk Museum.

The traditional shopping bazaar Kemeralti will keep you entertained for hours, regardless of whethe r you enjoy shopping or not.

This is a quintessential Turkish experience and should be savoured as such, alongside a glass of Turkish Tea.

Winter in Turkey: The Destination Shortlist

Whether you’re after a snowy trip away or some winter sun, I hope that this post has shown you how many wonderful Turkish winter destinations are on offer!

European holidays are definitely not only for the summer, and Turkey in winter stands out as one of the best destinations in the region. 

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Istanbul in January: Weather, Attractions, Tips for 2024

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

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

Are you thinking of visiting Istanbul in January? Well, you wouldn’t be wrong to do so! The city is a treasure-trove of culture, history, and exciting things to do.

But the question remains, is January a good time to visit Istanbul? Yes, it is. In January, the cruise ship crowd will have dispersed and the weather is cool, but not freezing. It can be rainy, but don’t worry, there are plenty of rainy day attractions to explore.

Still not convinced? Read on to find out exactly what Istanbul in January is like…

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 January

Let’s begin with the biggest concern for anyone looking to visit Istanbul in January…the weather. The weather is cold as it’s the height of winter, but it’s not freezing, and it also sometimes snows in Istanbul .

You can expect daytime temperatures to average around the 7.2 ° C (45 ° F) mark, and drop to around 6.6 ° C (44 ° F) at night. You’ll need to wear a warm winter coat, but the temperature won’t be too cold that you won’t want to go out.

What will make it feel cold though, is the rain. It rains on average for 14 days in the month of January (or 100mm of precipitation throughout the month). The rain is often light and dispersed throughout the day, so as long as you bring an umbrella, it shouldn’t get in the way of your fun.

Because of all the rain and moisture in the air, it can get quite humid in January .

The wind speed, however, is biting. It can reach as high as 11.9 miles per hour throughout the month of January, which can make it seem colder than it is. The wind speed tends to pick up throughout the month ( February is the windiest month), so will be windier later in January compared to the beginning.

Luckily, much of Istanbul is built up which shelters you from the wind, but you may feel it when walking across Sultanahmet Park or along the harborfront.

The sun tends to rise later in the day in January , too. Sunrise is around 8.30am at the start of the month, and 8.15am towards the end. The sun sets at 5.45pm at the start of the month and 6.15pm at the end of the month.

This isn’t a lot of daylight hours, but don’t worry, there are plenty of fun things to do in Istanbul at night . As we’re about to show you…

Top Things to Do in Istanbul in January

Considering the weather, you’re going to need to look for more indoor activities in Istanbul if you’re visiting this time of year. While outdoor attractions such as parks and walking along the promenades are still possible, you might not want to hang around for long.

Don’t worry though, as most of Istanbul’s attractions are indoors or possible to do in the rain .

1. Visit the Mosques of Istanbul

The good news is that the mosques in Istanbul remain open, which is the number one thing to do in Istanbul in January. This is because all mosques in the city are operating mosques, meaning worshippers still come to them to pray.

The only times the mosques may be closed to tourists, is during worshipping times. So be sure to check these out before you visit.

The most notable mosques to visit are the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Since they are located across from each other, it’s really easy to combine the two.

These are the city’s oldest mosques and are famous for their interior beauty, which is fortunate, as you’re going to want to be inside!

Another beautiful place to visit is the Camlica Mosque on the Asian side. It’s located on top of Camlica Hill which may be windy and cold, but the inside of the mosque is stunning and it will certainly be worth the trek up the hill to see its stone courtyard covered in a blanket of snow.

2. Take a Turkish Bath (Hamam)

If you need warming up, then undoubtedly the best thing to do in Istanbul in January is to take a Turkish Bath, or hamam. This is a public bathing space where you can dip your frozen limbs into hot, mineral water.

The Turkish Bath is similar to the Roman Baths, in that they are ornately decorated with mosaics and painted tiles, but they are a little less “flashy.”

The act of bathing is sacred in Islamic culture, as you need to wash before you pray. The Turkish Bath is therefore not only a relaxing place to warm up but a significant part of Turkey’s history and culture.

3. Sail Along the Bosphorus on a Cruise

Okay, so this activity will likely depend on how well you deal with sea sickness. One of the top attractions in Istanbul is to sail along the Bosphorus, which gives you a unique perspective of the city’s palaces and promenades.

The Golden Horn channel is lined with architecturally stunning buildings and impressive landmarks. In January, the water may be rough and the rain may obscure the view, but hear me out…

Many of these cruises come with food and entertainment. If you’re looking for a relaxing activity that also combines sampling some of the best local cuisines and watching some live performances, then you might enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, even in the rain.

4. Watch a Whirling Dervishes Show

If you are looking for an evening activity, then you’ll love watching a whirling dervishes show. This is a traditional Turkish dance where dancers look as though they are floating across the floor.

As well as being a dance, it’s an active meditation exercise, which originated from the Sufi tribes in the 13th century. This is one of our favorite nighttime things to do in Istanbul in January.

5. Shop in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered market in the world, with 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. And the best news? It’s all inside, which means you can shop until you drop without worrying about the weather.

It began operating in 1455 after the Ottomans captured Constantinople. The vibrant Grand Bazaar is the best place to pick up  Turkish souvenirs , from Turkish delights, Turkish lamps, rugs, towels, and clothes.

Around the corner is the Spice Bazaar. This is another souk market where you can shop for various teas and spices. The spices are said to help with certain medical conditions, from diabetes control to weight loss, and mood enhancers.

6. Go Museum and Palace Hopping

Istanbul is not short of museums and palaces. In fact, there are several palaces that are worth checking out. The most famous is the Topkapi Palace, the former home of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Today, it is a large museum, showcasing artifacts from the Ottoman era. Not all rooms are open to the public, but the most beautiful ones are. The Ottoman Imperial Harem and the treasury are the main reasons to visit this  palace in Istanbul .

The Topkapi Palace was also declared a UNESCO site in 1985 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Another palace to check out is the Dolmabahçe Palace, which was the summer house for the sultans. Ironic visiting it in the winter.

Although the museums and palaces are open in January, their opening hours may differ. It’s likely they will close earlier than usual, so check this information before visiting.

7. Sip Turkish Tea or Coffee in Balat

Balat is Istanbul’s Jewish Quarter and is famous for its brightly colored buildings. It’s located on a hill, with streets of boutique stores, antique shops, and cozy cafes at the bottom.

If you’re looking for a quiet neighborhood to sit and drink Cai (Turkish tea) or coffee all afternoon whilst reading a book, then this is the neighborhood to go to.

One of our favorite cafes in Balat is Cafe Naftalin K, which not only has a cute BoHo vibe to it, but it also has cats. Who doesn’t love surrounding themselves with kitties while drinking coffee?

8. See The Basilica Cistern

Another indoor attraction in Istanbul to visit on a rainy January day is the Basilica Cistern. It was built during the Roman Empire, as a water filtration system for the city’s palaces. There were several cisterns built by the Romans, but the largest and best-preserved cistern in the city is the Basilica Cistern.

It is just 150 meters away from the Hagia Sophia, so it makes sense to see this historical landmark on the same day.

9. Shop Down İstiklal Street

Another place to shop in Istanbul is Istiklal Street, which is the longest shopping street in the city. It’s a blend of historic and modern, with recognizable high street brands operating in ancient Roman buildings.

It was historically known as Grand Avenue of Pera, and is a pedestrian-only shopping street made famous for its red tram that rides from one end to the other.

It’s a great place to pick up some street food or find a traditional Turkish restaurant down one of the side streets. If you’re into nightlife, you’ll find vibrant bars in this area.

10. Go on a Pub Crawl in Beyoğlu

If you’re feeling cold, you may need to put your wine jacket on. Istanbul has a thriving nightlife scene and that doesn’t stop in the winter.

You’ll find many bars and nightclubs in the Beyoglu district that are open until the early hours of the morning. Many clubs will have DJs playing, and you’ll also find live music and entertainment in many bars.

Grabs a few mates from the hostel and go and explore the town. But before you go, check out our safety tips to make sure you’re in for a fun night.

Festivals and Events

Another decider on whether January is the right time of year for you is the events and festivals. Here are all the events and festivals that take place in Istanbul in January.

New Year’s Day (Yılbaşı)

• Date: Sunday, 1 January 2023

An obvious one, but it must be included. New Year is widely celebrated in Istanbul and across Turkey. While celebrations happen across the city on New Year’s Eve, the Bosphorus is where to be as this is where you will see fireworks at midnight. You can expect bars and clubs to be open until late, and street parties to continue until the early hours of the morning.

The 1st January is a National Holiday which means everyone will be off work and attractions may be closed (each attraction has different hours, so it’s worth looking it up before you visit).

Gaming Istanbul (GIST)

• Dates: Fri, 16 – Sun, 18 Sep 2022

For gamers, you may have heard of GIST . This is the gaming exhibition where professional and amateur gamers can come to gether and share their passion for games under one roof.

There is a variety of different games on display at GIST, from FPS or football games to the classic and nostalgic 8-bit games, or desktop FRPs.

Some visitors even dress up as their favorite game characters and test out their Cosplay skills. It’s like the Comicon for germs!

Epiphany Celebration in Fener

• Date: 6th January

Though Istanbul is a predominantly Muslim city, it is also home to other communities. For the Greek Orthodox community, the 6th January is Epiphany, where a religious ritual takes place in church.

The celebrations most famously take place in the Fener district of Istanbul, where visitors can see the Patriarch throw a cross into the Golden Horn, shortly followed by a group of young people who jump in after it to rescue it.

The holiday symbolizes the revelation of Christ as the messiah and marks the date of his baptism by John the Baptist.

It’s also a time of year for confession.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Istanbul in January

If you’re still not sure if Istanbul is worth visiting in January, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons.

• It’s quiet this time of year, with no cruise ships and fewer tourists.
• All attractions remain open.
• It snows, which makes the city look magical in a sheet of white.
• Some hotels close in the winter, though not all of them.
• The weather is cold and rainy, and the wind is chilly.
• It snows, which makes the ground slushy.
• The waves are choppy, which is not fun for a Bosphorus cruise.

Where To Stay in Istanbul in January

One thing to consider about visiting Istanbul in January is that some hotels may not be open, since it’s the off-season. However, there are always places to stay in Istanbul and here are just a few places we recommend.

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 January

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

• Wear warm winter clothing. It’s cold and wet this time of year, so you’ll need a thick coat, hat and scarf and all the woolly items you need to keep you warm.
• 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’ll likely encounter rain, and maybe even snow, this time of year.
• 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 January

Here’s what people usually ask us about visiting Istanbul in January…

Does it snow in Istanbul in January?

Yes, it has been known to snow in Istanbul on occasion. Snow starts to fall sometime in December and can snow until March , so there is a high chance of snow in January.

Is it good time to visit Istanbul in January?

Yes, January is a good time to visit January. It’s less busy, and the iconic attractions are still open.

Is Istanbul hot in January?

No, temperatures in January are quite cold and feel colder due to the rain and wind.

Before You Go

So there you have it, this is everything you need to know about visiting Istanbul in January. As you can see, although the weather is cold and wet, there’s still a lot of fun to be had.

Many of the attractions remain open in the winter, so don’t let the weather stop you from having a great time.

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.

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tourism in turkey , Created : 12 January 2022

Best places to visit in turkey during january, tourism in turkey , by: cameron deggin, by: cameron deggin.

Visiting Turkey during January presents an entirely different face to the country than the typical sunny, beachside resorts appearing in mainstream holiday brochures. As Turkey's coldest month, naturally, sunning yourself on beaches in January would be a fool's game. But this still leaves plenty of other places to go and things to do. Some destinations shine through in January, and tourists often bag themselves good deals through cheaper flights and hotel bookings. The first question that people often ask us about this month is temperatures. However, Turkey has several different geographical and weather zones.

The east and north experience the coldest temperatures while the Mediterranean southern coast is the hottest. Northern temperatures drop as much as minus in places like the high altitude Kackar mountains, yet sunny Antalya in Mediterranean Turkey averages between 10 to 20 degrees. But regardless of where you go, we promise a fantastic trip where cultural heritage and sites of natural beauty blend to make perfect memories. So, let us look at Turkey's top six places to visit during January and what to do when you get there.

Places to Visit in Turkey during January

1: istanbul city – hub of turkey.

Despite not being Turkey's capital city, Istanbul is to the country, what Rome is to Italy and Paris is to France. As Turkey's poster child of tourism, and the main reason many people visit, Istanbul is Turkey's beating heart, averaging 15 million tourists a year. Built on seven hills to match Rome's reputation, ruling empires included the Byzantine and ottomans. First-Time visitors should start their exploration in Sultanahmet, home to a collection of historical landmarks including Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and hippodrome.

Next, walk the short distance to the Grand Bazaar, a massive labyrinth of passageways featuring thousands of stalls. Dating from the Ottoman empire, the Grand Bazaar, Turkey's oldest and largest market, is a great place to shop for souvenirs, but remember to practise your Turkish bargaining skills. Breaking down into two continents, Istanbul features the famous Golden Horn and Bosphorus waterways. Crossing the Golden Horn via Galata bridge leads to Galata Tower and then new Istanbul, known as Beyoglu and Taksim.

Istiklal avenue, Turkey's longest street, blends modern, brand name shops and dining establishments with old landmark buildings like the flower passage and Saint Anthony of Padua church. Next, explore the Bosphorus shores, brimming with old mosques, villages and Ottoman houses and mansions, via ferry rides, or cross over to Asian Istanbul to wander streets of the shoreline Uskudar and Kadikoy neighbourhoods. Finally, repeat visitors to Istanbul or Turkey, in general, would do well to explore the Princes' Islands, namely Buyukada, the former home of exiled royalty. ( Istanbul city guide.)

2: Central Anatolian Cappadocia in January

Cappadocia attracts couples and solo travellers, is Turkey's third most visited destination, and never fails to surprise with lunar-like landscapes and fairy chimneys shaped by thousands of years of wind erosion. During January, snow turns landscapes into a winter wonderland of Turkey. Cappadocia, a centre of early Christianity, features the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to 14 th and 15 th -century cave churches with intricate Biblical frescoes. Living in caves was common in Cappadocia because locals carved their homes out of soft tufa rock left behind by ancient volcanic eruptions.

The other top recommended activity, an early morning hot air balloon trip, gives off bird's eye views and perfectly portrays why Cappadocia is a magical place in Turkey. Also, explore Derinkuyu underground city, a massive collection of rooms and passageways that protected locals from evasion in ancient times. Many touristic sites in Cappadocia are outdoors. Additionally, Cappadocia in Turkey's central Anatolian region sits at a higher altitude, inciting lower temperatures, so wrap up warm, especially at night. Book three nights and four days to see all major sites, and choose from various towns to stay, including Goreme, Uchisar, Urgup and Ortahisar.

3: January Delights in Antalya city centre

On Turkey's Mediterranean coast, Antalya is the second most popular destination. Boasting excellent shopping and nightlife scenes, stunning views, and a fascinating past, many ex-pats in Turkey, spend Christmas and New Year in Antalya because it is Turkey's warmest destination. Start your exploration at Kaleici old town, famously marked by Hadrian's gate entrance and home to narrow, cobbled paths with Ottoman houses and mosques. An excellent place to stay is Lara beach, home to many five-star all-inclusive hotels. Other top attractions within Antalya city centre include the archaeological museum, lower Duden waterfalls tumbling into the sea, and aquarium.

After exploring the city, hire a car or join guided tours to head out to districts like luxury Kalkan, quaint Kas, historical side, golfing Belek and delightful Alanya, with its red castle and city walls. Otherwise, main historical attractions include Phaselis and famous Aspendos featuring a marvellously preserved ancient theatre. January often features daytime temperatures of roughly 12 degrees, but night times temperatures drop. To combine beautiful weather with a touch of snow, head to Saklikent ski resort or Mount Tahtali with fantastic coastline views in the Kemer district. (Guide to the Antalya region.)

4: Ephesus Ancient Ruins of Turkey

If you enjoy historical attractions, visit Ephesus in Aegean Turkey, because fewer crowds evoke an enhanced ambience in January. Annually hosting millions of visitors, Ephesus ancient city nearly rivalled Rome in terms of importance. However, as a former sea trading port, importance dwindled when the coastline edged away, and an earthquake caused citizens to desert it. These days, extensive excavations reveal how citizens lived through the Roman terraced houses, public latrines, agora marketplace, temples, and grand theatre. Ephesus sits in the Selcuk region of Aegean, Turkey. We recommend extending your stay overnight to take in other major attractions like the Virgin Mary's house, Saint John Basilica, and Sirince winemaking village. Also, see the Artemis Temple, one of the original Seven Wonders of the World. (What to see in Ephesus .)

5: History and Skiing in Bursa

Bursa in Northern Turkey was the Ottoman empire's first ruling capital but stands out for four significant reasons. Firstly, the Iskender kebab was invented here. This delightful dish featuring kebab meat, pita bread, garlic butter and a tangy tomato sauce is a must-try on your visit. Second, the region's nickname, green Bursa, reflects many sites of natural beauty and green parks and gardens.

Third, Bursa features many UNESCO buildings. Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque) is Bursa's most prominent mosque built in a style reflecting early Ottoman architecture. The Hudavendigar Mosque Complex dating from 1424 and built by sultan Murat, reveals Ottoman society values. Behind Ulu Cami, Bursa's sprawling Kapali Carsi features two historic markets and stalls to shop for souvenirs. Also see Sultan Osman's tomb, resting place of the founder of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa City Museum featuring relics and ethnographic collections, and the Citadel ramparts and walls.

Then take a cable car up to Mount Uludag and indulge in one of Turkey's best skiing resorts. To stay overnight, hotel accommodation gives instant access to amazing views, and ski runs worth navigating. (Why is everyone talking about Bursa.)

6: Ride the Dogu Express of Turkey

Anyone interested in this journey through Turkey needs planning because tickets for this excursion sell out immediately. Popular with Turks, the Dogu express (Eastern Express,) a 24-hour train journey from Ankara to Kars, reveals stunning landscapes that made this journey an Instagram trend. After completing the trip, book a two-night stay in Kars centre to visit two off the beaten track destinations that are well-kept secrets.

The first Cildir lake freezes over in winter, and many Turks visit for a horse drive sleigh ride and dine on fish caught through the ice. Also, visit the UNESCO Ani ancient city. Dating from the Armenian kingdom, the nickname city of 1001 churches refer to unique architecture within the old city walls, and fewer visitors enhances a ghostly ambience. Additionally, the old district of Kars features early 20th-century architectural styles from when Russians ruled this part of Turkey.

Also About Turkey

Top Visited Places of Natural Beauty : Exploring beautiful places in Turkey reveals stunning landscapes; everyone should visit at least once. From rolling Kackar mountains plateaus to long sandy, Mediterranean beaches and everything in between, these places amaze anyone seeking more beauty. While hundreds of places in Turkey deserve a mention, we picked the favourites that have left us with beautiful memories and would return to them in a heartbeat.

Blog About Turkey: If you enjoyed this article about Turkey during January, read the rest of our blog that brims with helpful information. We have taken our teams' collective knowledge and experience of local and regional destinations to form a complete guide for anyone looking to travel or live here in Turkey.

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• Turkey Weather in January: Travel Tips for First-Timers

Turkey in January is mild-to-cold and wet; skiing and Cappadocia's snowy stone-scape are its off-season highlights. Read on for our travel advice and weather info, with average temperatures, rainfall, and humidity, and travel tips...

Content Preview

• 1. Weather Overview
• 2. Best Places to Visit
• 3. Crowds and Costs
• 4. What to Wear
• 5. Monthly Weather in Turkey
• 6. Recommended Tours

1. Turkey Weather in January: Overview

• Temperature range: 4–13°C (39–55°F)
• Rainfall: 9 cm (4 inches)
• Rainy days: 11
• Sunshine hours/day: 2
• Sea temperature: 10°C (50°F)
• Humidity: 69–80% (muggy in the south to oppressive on the northwest coast)

January comes in the middle of Turkey's cool, wet winter. The weather in Turkey in January is cold to mild, with lots of cloud and light-to-heavy showers on 1 in 2 or 3 days.

There is still some wintry sun: more inland in Cappadocia, where rainfall is low, but temperatures hover around freezing there. Fog/mist is common on the coast leading to high humidity. This typically clears, though it remains cloudy most of the time.

Weather of Turkey's Major Cities in January

2. the best places to visit in turkey in january.

January in Turkey is too cool (and wet) for beach holidays, but its cold (inland) temperatures give rise to winter sports opportunities and a variety of snowscapes. Visiting Turkey's amazing historical and cultural sights is still very attractive, despite January being Turkey's wettest month.

Top things to do in January include: going to Turkey's historical sites, skiing at Bursa, snowscapes and skiing in Cappadocia, and more snowy scenery in Bolu's national park.

So, for a chance to explore Turkey's past for less or a snowy holiday, you may be interested in Turkey's best places to visit in January:

1) Istanbul — Visit Historical Sights

Its largest city, besides being the No. 1 gateway city for Turkey, has many of the country's top historical attractions, not least the Hagia Sophia with its beautiful dome and long Christian/Muslim history and the exquisite Blue Mosque. So, it's the ideal place to start a Turkey tour , whatever the weather.

• For a summary of the sights, see Istanbul Old City Walking Tour — Full-day Guided Immersion of the Old Days.
• And for a more in-depth cultural and foodie exploration, see Istanbul Land & Sea Combo with Food Tasting — 2-Day Istanbul Sightseeing and Food Tasting Tour.
• We can arrange all that you want to see in one tour. Our tours are fully-customizable.

Further reading: Top 10 Things to Do in Istanbul

2) Cappadocia — Still Awesome in Winter!

Cappadocia , that wonderland of pointy rockscapes and colorful balloons, is still a traveler's paradise in the middle of winter, especially if you like the crisp cold.

The balloons still fly (allow some flexibility as this is not on all days), the stark landscape has a fresh kind of beauty in the light snow and frost, cave hotels with hot tubs are cozy and charming stays, and the hiking (or horse-riding if you like) is surreal.

As if this is not enough, Cappadocia also has a ski resort on Mount Erciyes , tallest peak in central Anatolia , with 8 lifts and fun runs from 2,200 to 3,100 m (7,000–10,000 ft) altitude. It's great for a day out from your warm cave!

There are plenty of other activities to enjoy too: see Top 10 Things to Do in Cappadocia .

3) Skiing at Bursa, Northwest Turkey

Towering over the city of Bursa, about 300 km (200 miles) or 3 hours south from Istanbul, is Mount Uludag , which has a famous but average ski resort. It is a convenient place to go from Istanbul with amazing views and dozens of ski trails (not many in the difficult category).

It is a fun place to go to enjoy some leisurely skiing/snowboarding and wintry scenery, but don't have too high an expectation of the facilities and marking of pistes. Booking of ski passes may also be confusing. Contact us for the smoothest visit to Bursa with private transport and help booking everything you need, including accommodation to suit you.

4) Yedigoller National Park — Snow Scenery

Yedigoller ('Seven Lakes') National Park in Bolu Province, 300 km (200 mi) east of Istanbul, is an extremely scenic place to go for some peace and quiet amongst snowy forested hills and frozen/glassy lakes — "the best-preserved natural area in Turkey". Apart from soul-refreshing hiking, there is a popular ski resort there too on the mild slopes of the Koroglu Mountains — Kartalkaya .

It is difficult to get to in the winter, but our private transport would get you there as comfortably as the roads allow.

3. Middle of the Low Season: Least Crowding and Cost

January is one of the least crowded and cheapest months to travel in Turkey. Not only is it cooler, but rainier too, in Turkey's winter off season, but you can save on flights and hotels and see the sights when they're quiet.

January 1st is a public holiday in Turkey, which sees a brief increase in travel and restaurant/hotel bookings, but it is not as significant as in other countries.

4. What to Wear in January

There are mild temperatures, even some warm days in the south of Turkey in January, so you could wear lighter clothes there. However, the more recommended areas for January are all further north and cool to cold, so bring winter clothing that's suitable for whatever activity you want to do : skiing, hiking, sightseeing…

In January, it is cold at night in inland areas like Cappadocia and the high mountains, so remember to take enough warm clothes . Central heating is provided in most hotels.

January is Turkey's rainiest month, with rain on half or a third of its days, but it comes in different amounts depending on location: from low amounts (often snow) in Cappadocia, through moderate amounts on the north/central coast to high amounts on the south coast around Antalya.

So, a raincoat is recommended wherever you travel in Turkey.

Suggested reading: The Best Time to Visit Turkey.

Monthly Weather in Turkey

Suggested reading:  Best and Worst Times to Visit Turkey >>>

Recommended Tours for Turkey in January

In Turkey in January, having some things professionally arranged for you would definitely be of benefit, particularly a local guide who makes the best of the weather and gives you insights into the local culture and history, as well as private transport that's comfortable and convenient.

At Global Highlights, we recognize that you may want some independent time with your traveling companion(s), maybe to ski together or hike in a national park, so we are flexible to do as much itinerary tailoring and expert arranging as you want to make the best trip for you. Contact us to begin a tour inquiry.

You could start from one of our customizable Turkey tours that we recommend for January:

• Classical Wonders — 7-Day Top Highlights of Turkey: Istanbul–Cappadocia–Kusadasi
• New Testament Legacy Tour: 7 Churches from the Book of Revelation — 9-Day Christianity Highlights (Churches of Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea) with Turkey Highlights
• Istanbul Land & Sea Combo with Food Tasting — 2-Day Istanbul Sightseeing and Food Tasting Tour
• More Turkey Tours

Why Global Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 10-Day Turkey Honeymoon Tour (Istanbul to Cappadocia)
• 16-Day Turkey Great Circle Tour
• 9-Day Turkey Bible Legacy Tour: 7 Churches from the Book of Revelation
• 11-Day Turkey Classic Wonders and the Mediterranean Tour
• How to Plan a Trip to Turkey and Greece in 2024
• How to Plan a Family Trip to Turkey in 2024
• How Long to Spend in Turkey: First-Timer Itinerary Ideas
• Best and Worst Times to Visit Turkey in 2024
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• Turkey Weather in June 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
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The Best Things to Do in Turkey in Winter

Are you planning your winter getaway to Turkey? Exploring Turkey in the cold months reveals a captivating and magical side, offering unique experiences away from the crowds.

Discover a side of the country that is serene, culturally rich, and filled with unique seasonal experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the snowy landscapes of Cappadocia or the winter festivities in Istanbul, Turkey has much to offer during the colder months.

Here are some of the best things to do in Turkey during winter.

Things To Know Before Visiting Turkey In Winter

Preparing for a winter trip to Turkey involves considering the weather, maintaining flexibility in your plans, and taking advantage of the benefits that the season offers, from fewer crowds to budget-friendly opportunities. Take these aspects into consideration when visiting Turkey in winter:

• Weather : Winter in Turkey varies depending on your destination, and the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to remain flexible. Coastal areas experience milder temperatures, while inland and mountainous regions can be considerably colder. Check the forecast for your chosen destination and prepare accordingly by bringing suitable clothing.
• Fewer Crowds : Despite the uncertainty, traveling in winter comes with advantages such as fewer crowds and shorter waiting queues. This provides enough time to explore attractions and connect with locals in a more serene environment.
• Limited Access : Be mindful that due to weather conditions, some attractions or sites may be closed or have limited accessibility. Proper research and planning are crucial to avoid any disappointments.
• Low Prices : On the positive side, one of the benefits of visiting Turkey in winter is the lower prices compared to peak travel periods. Flight, accommodation, and tour rates tend to drop, offering great deals, including reduced fees for attractions and activities. Take advantage of these cost savings and enjoy a more budget-friendly and peaceful experience during your winter travels in Turkey.

Places To Visit In Turkey During Winter

Cappadocia’s winter wonderland.

Cappadocia’s snow-kissed landscapes offer a unique journey. Considered one of the best places to visit in Turkey in January. The iconic fairy chimneys, caves, and valleys transform into a magical winter wonderland, creating a scene straight out of a storybook. 

The most famous thing to do in Turkey in winter is Cappadocia’s hot-air ballooning. With fewer crowds during the winter season, the experience becomes more intimate, allowing passengers to soak in the mesmerizing views in tranquility. 

Enhance your experience by booking at one of the cave hotels. Witness the stunning sunrise and sunset against the breathtaking landscapes. Opt for a hike or a guided tour to explore the underground city, digging into the rich history of the ancient sites in the area.

If you’re planning a romantic trip, Cappadocia is a top place to visit in Turkey in February for Valentine’s Day. It offers a uniquely enchanting experience for activities and exploration.

Ski Adventure in Uludağ

If you’re wondering what to do in Turkey in January, thrill-seekers can revel in the winter sports paradise of Uludağ, Turkey’s premier ski resort. The snow-covered slopes provide a picturesque backdrop for skiing, snowboarding, and other exhilarating activities. 

Uludağ can be easily reached from Istanbul, and from Bursa, by taking the road or Bursa’s Teleferik, which is one of the longest cable-car rides in the world. As one of Turkey’s best ski resorts, visitors can book one of the hotels surrounding the resort to spend their time exploring the slopes in comfort.

From beginners to seasoned enthusiasts, Uludağ provides a comprehensive winter sports experience, making it a prime destination for those seeking both adventure and scenic beauty in the snowy embrace of the mountains.

Istanbul’s Festive Transformation

Experience the vibrant transformation of Istanbul during the winter season. Wander through historic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque amidst the city’s festive atmosphere. Explore interesting museums and beautiful gardens for a serene stroll. Dive into the bustling Grand Bazaar with its aromatic spices and handcrafted pieces. Istanbul’s renowned malls and retail outlets beckon for a delightful shopping spree. 

As the day comes to an end, unwind at one of the charming cafes or restaurants along the Bosphorus River, or book a dinner cruise.

While exploring the world of Turkish cuisine, why not bring a part of that distinct taste home with you? Consider taking a local cooking class to learn the art of preparing Turkish dishes and enjoy the experience of creating these delicious flavors in your own kitchen.

Visiting Istanbul during the Winter season from December till February, and walking through its vibrant streets and attractions offers a wholesome and enriching experience. 

Pamukkale’s Serene Thermal Pools

Pamukkale should be on your list of things to do in Turkey in February , where the weather is just the perfect temperature to experience the serene beauty of Pamukkale’s terraces and thermal pools. Visitors can wade through the warm, calcium-rich waters, enjoying the therapeutic properties attributed to the mineral content. The terraces, with their surreal and snowy appearance, create a stunning visual. 

The site is not only famous for its natural pools but also the adjacent ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hierapolis features well-preserved ruins, including a necropolis, theater, and historical artifacts that provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Whether opting for a day trip, which is sufficient to experience the essence of this enchanting city or choosing to extend the stay, Pamukkale offers a range of hotels to accommodate every traveler’s preference.

Lake Çıldır Sleighing

During the freezing month of February, Lake Çıldır is one of the best places to visit in Turkey in winter . Located in northeastern Turkey, the lake undergoes a stunning transformation that adds to its allure. This second-largest freshwater lake in Eastern Anatolia freezes over entirely, creating a magical and Arctic-like panorama. 

The frozen surface of the lake becomes a canvas for traditional ice fishing, a practice deeply embedded in local culture, with enthusiasts drilling through the thick ice to catch the endemic Çıldır trout. Visitors can enjoy this ice fishing practice as well as ice walking, and horse-pulled sleigh, where they can explore the charming surrounding landscapes. Lake Çıldır in winter emerges as a captivating and worthy destination.

Historical Exploration in Ephesus

Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites visitors to stroll through its ancient streets and relive its rich cultural and historical legacy. With the mild winter temperatures and fewer crowds, It’s one of the top places to visit in Turkey in December.. 

Immerse into its well-preserved archaeological sites, featuring remarkable structures such as the Great Theater, Library of Celsus, and the Temple of Artemis. Pilgrims visit the House of the Virgin Mary, and the ancient Agora provides a glimpse into daily life.

Ephesus is a 45-minute drive from the airport of Izmir. Another way of transportation is to take a 9-hour bus drive from Istanbul or a flight from Istanbul to Izmir.

Unforgettable Eastern Express Train Trip

The Eastern Express Train Trip in Turkey offers an enchanting winter journey, taking passengers on a scenic 24-hour ride through the snow-covered landscapes of Eastern Anatolia. This iconic train route, connecting Ankara to Kars, becomes a magical experience during the colder months. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, forests, and charming villages along the route, creating a picturesque atmosphere that adds to the allure of the journey.

As part of the cultural exploration, travelers have the chance to interact with locals, immersing themselves in the daily life and hospitality of Eastern Anatolia. The train provides well-equipped sleeping cars, offering a cozy retreat from the winter chill outside while indulging in warm and hearty meals amid the winter landscapes. In Kars, the final destination, visitors can explore historical landmarks such as the medieval Kars Castle and the iconic Fethiye Mosque.

While in Kars you can reach the ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Lake Çıldır, adding an extra layer of beauty to the journey.

However, it’s important to plan, as the Eastern Express experiences high demand during winter, and tickets can be limited.

Warm Winter in Antalya

If you’re searching for things to do in Turkey during December in warmer weather, then pack your bags for Antalya. Known for its vibrant summer tourism, Antalya transforms into a serene and charming destination during the winter months. The mild Mediterranean climate and pleasant temperature, even in winter, allow visitors to explore this coastal gem away from the bustling summer crowds.

Visitors can leisurely explore Antalya Museum and the historic Old Town, Kaleiçi, with its Ottoman-era architecture, and discover landmarks like the Yivli Minaret and Hadrian’s Gate. Nature lovers can enjoy the Düden Waterfalls, while golf enthusiasts can experience world-class courses with stunning Mediterranean views. Visitors can still enjoy water activities on the shores. Antalya’s vibrant marina remains a charming spot for leisurely afternoons.

Kaçkar Mountains’ Snowy Trails

Embark on a winter hiking adventure in the Kaçkar Mountains. The Kaçkar Mountains, nestled in northeastern Turkey and extend along the border between Turkey and Georgia, boast a stunning and challenging landscape. 

Characterised by alpine beauty, deep valleys, and diverse ecosystems, the region offers opportunities for trekking and mountaineering, catering to various skill levels. The Kaçkar National Park, designated to protect the area’s unique ecosystems, and glacial lakes like Lake Karagölmakes, make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond its natural allure, Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality and traditional cuisine to enhance the cultural experience.

The Kaçkar region stands as a captivating destination for those eager to explore the beauty of northeastern Turkey.

Fused Experience in Ankara

Begin your winter journey in Ankara, Turkey’s capital, by visiting the iconic Atakule Tower, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Dive into Turkey’s rich history at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Elmadag Ski Resort just outside Ankara provides a thrilling escape for skiing and snowboarding.

CerModern’s year-round cultural events showcase winter-themed exhibitions and performances. Gençlik Park and the historic Hamamönü district offer serene winter strolls amidst ponds, cafes, and Ottoman-era charm. Ankara’s vibrant winter festivals bring the community together for holiday markets and music events, while Kocatepe Mosque Square hosts lively New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Indulge in the hearty Turkish cuisine at traditional winter restaurants, savoring kebabs and stews. Cap off the season with cultural performances at the Ankara State Opera and Ballet, featuring classical concerts and ballet productions.

Ankara is your answer to things to do in Turkey in January and February , with its diverse cultural and festive offerings.

Snow Activities at Erciyes

Your Skiing destination, Erciyes, nestled near Kayseri in central Turkey, transforms into a winter wonderland centered around the majestic Mount Erciyes. The ski resort caters to all levels of skiers and snowboarders, with a season running from December to April. 

Beyond winter sports, the region offers a picturesque landscape for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and snowmobiling adventures. Après-ski activities, winter festivals, and cultural events add a festive touch. 

Cozy accommodations, including hotels and chalets, provide a warm retreat, all easily accessible from Kayseri’s international airport. Erciyes promises a diverse and memorable winter experience.

Ishak Pasha Palace’s Brilliant Architecture 

Ishak Pasha Palace, an Ottoman architectural marvel near Dogubeyazit, is one of the most unique things to do in Turkey in February . The palace showcases historical greatness with a unique blend of Persian, Armenian, and Seljuk influences. The palace’s winter charm is heightened as it stands on a hill overlooking snow-covered Eastern Anatolia for 400 years. 

Despite potential winter challenges, visitors can stay at the nearby hotels in Dogubayazıt. The palace remains accessible by taxi, and the visit time to explore the palace is between 1 to 1.5 hours. 

Ishak Pasha Palace is one the places recommended to visit and discover for unparalleled experience due to its cultural significance and architectural brilliance.

The Turkish Hammam

You can’t visit Turkey and not experience the Turkish Hamam or Turkish Bath! It offers a unique and rejuvenating bathing experience with a rich historical significance. Housed in architecturally impressive buildings reflecting the aesthetics of the Ottoman era.

The hamam experience begins in a warm and steamy, then exfoliation process, removing dead skin cells and promoting smoother skin. This is followed by a traditional foam massage. Intermittent splashes of cold water provide a refreshing contrast, and after the cleansing rituals, guests retire to a cooler room for relaxation, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, herbal tea, and a sense of calm.

Beyond its physical benefits, the Turkish hammam holds cultural significance. People from diverse backgrounds come together to share stories, relax, and partake in the collective enjoyment of this age-old tradition.

While traditional hammams remain popular, modern adaptations in spas and wellness centers offer variations of the experience, including additional treatments like massages and aromatherapy for a more comprehensive relaxation journey.

Winter Festivals and Culinary Delights

Embark on a festive journey through Turkey during the winter months, where diverse winter festivals unfold, each highlighting local traditions, music, and cuisine. 

Complementing these festivities is the delightful array of winter specialties found throughout the country. Roasted chestnuts, warm Turkish delight, and comforting hot beverages create a sensory delight that perfectly accompanies the chilly season. 

Dive into Turkey’s diverse culinary scene and immerse yourself in the warmth of both festive celebrations and winter flavors wherever you are in this magical country.

Looking for things to do in Turkey in Summer or Spring? Check out our full guide here.

The southern coastal regions of Turkey, particularly the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts tend to be warmest. Cities such as Antalya, Alanya, and Fethiye experience milder temperatures.

Yes. Exploring Turkey in winter offers a quieter, immersive experience with milder temperatures along the coasts and enchanting snowy landscapes in colder regions.

It depends on your preferences, whether you prefer the serene charm of winter or the lively atmosphere of summer. Turkey is worth exploring all year round with a lot to offer.

December can be a wonderful time to visit Turkey. While coastal areas may experience milder temperatures, it's advisable to bring layers and be prepared for cooler weather, particularly in inland and mountainous regions. December in Turkey offers a delightful blend of cultural experiences, festive charm, and beautiful winter landscapes.

12 Best Things to Do in Winter in Turkey

Written by Jess Lee Updated Oct 14, 2022

Turkey may receive the vast amount of its tourists during the summer months, but travelers who arrive here during the winter season are in for a treat.

If you're here to see Turkey's big archaeological and historical tourist attractions , you'll find the major ruins, monuments, and museums crowd- and queue-free, which makes in-depth sightseeing more pleasant.

Many of the most famous of Turkey's ruins also lie along the coastal region, which only has a mild winter.

Heading inland, central and eastern Turkey is blanketed with snow during the depths of winter.

Two areas in particular are the best places to visit in Turkey during the colder months and have turned their winter wonderland landscapes into tourism hot spots. People specifically come to both Cappadocia , smack in the center of the country, and Kars , in the far northeast, to capture scenes of their snowy countryside.

For winter sports enthusiasts, though, skiing is the top thing to do from December through to February. Turkey's ski and snowboard scene gets better every year.

Several ski centers throughout the country offer modern facilities and ski pass prices that are incredible value compared to the cost of skiing in European and North American ski resorts.

To find out how to plan your trip, use our list of the best things to do in Turkey in winter.

1. Hot-Air Ballooning in Cappadocia

2. lake çıldır sleighing, 3. eastern express train trip, 4. skiing at uludağ, 5. explore kars and ancient ani, 6. city break in istanbul without the crowds, 7. palandöken skiing, 8. discover lake abant, 9. ruin hop the coast while it's quiet, 10. skiing at sarıkamıs, 11. warm up in a hammam, 12. admire scenic landscapes in yedigöller national park.

The vast amount of travelers may arrive in Cappadocia between April and October but in winter, when the fairy chimney formations are topped with a dusting of snow, the landscape here is at its most magical.

The best way to experience the sinewy valleys, filled with hoodoo rocks and spiky cones, in all their snowy glory is from the air.

Cappadocia's hot-air ballooning is one of Turkey's most famous activities and top of most tourists' things to do list. Ballooning runs year-round here (though it sometimes has to be called off due to inclement weather) and provides bird's-eye panoramic views across the landscape.

You'll need to wrap up warm and be prepared for sub-zero temperatures when being picked up for your ballooning tour, as balloon flights take off just after dawn.

For your best chance of snowy landscapes, come in January or February. Although snow is possible any time from November through to April, these two months generally bring the most snow.

A favorite winter destination for Turkish tourists, who flock here during February, Lake Çıldır is still well off most foreign visitor's radars.

This high-altitude lake, in Turkey's mountainous northeastern corner, is a winter wonderland and well worth the long journey out here.

The lake is Turkey's second biggest, measuring 123 square kilometers.

During the winter months, Lake Çıldır freezes solid and is surrounded by a landscape of snowy mountains.

Locals run horse-sleigh trips and ice-fishing trips out onto the lake throughout the depths of winter. It's a highly popular way to experience this fantastical snow-blanketed landscape, which seems to have dropped straight out of a storybook.

Sleighing tours often include a visit to one of the ice-fishing sites on the lake, where local villagers demonstrate their traditional winter fishing skills.

As well as the traditional sleighing activities, snow mobile rental and other more modern transport methods are available on the lake.

On winter weekends, the lake gets very busy with visitors, so try to come midweek.

Turkey's most famous train route is the Eastern Express (Doğu Ekspresi) between Ankara and Kars, and winter is the most popular season to jump aboard.

This 24-hour train ride is all about the scenery, and during the depths of winter, the landscape of high plateaus and craggy mountains that frame Turkey's northeast region are completely blanketed in snow.

Although this train journey remains little used by foreign visitors, it's massively popular with Turkish tourists, so advance booking is highly recommended. The train has been known to get fully booked, months in advance.

Due to the Eastern Express' popularity, there is now a second train called the Turistik Doğu Ekspresi (Tourist Eastern Express), which follows exactly the same route but stops for two-hour breaks at some of the stations along the way, so that people can sightsee and then board the same train again.

For some travelers the tourist train will be an excellent option, but bear in mind it is far more expensive than the normal Eastern Express train, and the journey takes nearly twice as long.

The train ride ends in the city of Kars, one of Turkey's best places to visit for winter activities and things to do, as it's the nearest center to base yourself for trips to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ani, as well as Lake Çıldır.

Uludağ (Mount Ulu) is Turkey's busiest ski center, thanks to it being within easy reach of Istanbul.

Reached by either road from the city of Bursa, 36 kilometers to the north, or by the Bursa Teleferik, which is one of the longest cable-car rides in the world, the ski resort area on the slopes here offers full facilities for a day of skiing or snowboarding and full rental facilities for ski equipment.

From the resort area, there are 28 kilometers of pistes ranging from beginner to experienced skier levels, with 16 lifts available for transport to the various slopes.

For those who want a ski break, rather than just a day trip, there are 27 hotels in the resort area.

The ski season here runs from late-December to early-March but is generally at its best during January and February.

Kars is one of Turkey's prime bases for winter escapades.

This small city, in Turkey's far northeast, has become a winter getaway destination in recent years. Its burgeoning popularity is due to it being the closest city to stay to launch yourself out on trips to Lake Çıldır and the many other tourist attractions of the northeast.

The number one attraction near here is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ani, which is a fascinating ruin to explore at any time of the year but looks particularly beautiful when its monuments are dusted with snow.

Sitting on the high plateau, smack against Turkey's border with Armenia, Ani was an important trade route town that became the capital of the Armenian kingdom in the 10th century. Control over this trading center was fought over for two centuries, passing first to the Byzantines in 1045, then to Seljuk, Georgian, and Kurdish forces before the Mongols arrived in 1236.

The city's decline began with a mammoth earthquake in 1319 and was sealed by the shift in trade routes later that century, after which the site was abandoned completely.

Today, Ani's elegant church ruins and other monuments sit scattered across the plateau. Many of the buildings still standing date from its grandest era, when it reigned as the Armenian Kingdom's capital, but there are also ruins from its Seljuk era.

Kars itself has a castle and a couple of historic mosques, as well as some fine 19th-century architecture left over from the period the town was under Russian control. It's known as a foodie city, with the winter months a good time to tuck into its local roast goose dish specialty.

Istanbul is a year-round city-break destination but there are a few really good reasons to head here during winter.

Hotel prices drop substantially from November through to March, meaning you can snag a great accommodation deal at this time of year.

This is also the season that sees far fewer tourists in town, so you get to visit Istanbul's major monuments, such as Topkapı Palace and the Hagia Sophia , without the massive crowds and the queues that are par for the course during summer.

The major mosques of Istanbul's historic old town area - in Sultanahmet and around the Grand Bazaar - look incredibly pretty with their grand domes dusted with a sprinkling of snow, making this a good season for photographers.

An extra bonus for foodie travelers in the city during winter is the street food scene. This is the season when the street-cart vendors around town start selling sahlap (a hot milky drink made from orchid tubers) and roast chestnuts - perfect fodder for snacking on a wintry afternoon while touring Istanbul's tourist attractions .

Palandöken Ski Center (also known as Ejder 3200) sits on the slopes of Mount Palandöken, seven kilometers from the city of Erzurum in Turkey's northeast.

This ski resort is generally thought to be Turkey's best with excellent facilities combined with 43 kilometers of slopes (making up 22 pistes). There are 13 ski lifts, including a main cable car, connecting the ski runs.

With the resort area sitting at 2,200 meters, this is Turkey's highest altitude ski center and so attracts plenty of adventurous, experienced skiers, who want to ski off-piste down the treeless high-altitude slopes.

There are trails here, though, that are also good for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders, and facilities for families such as a toboggan park.

If skiing isn't enough, Palandöken is also where you come for winter tandem paragliding.

Due to the resort's high altitude, the ski season here tends to be longer than at other Turkish ski centers, with skiing possible usually for around 150 days annually from December through to April.

Regular public transport from Erzurum to the resort area means that ski day trips are easy. The ski center itself has plenty of hotel accommodation as well as cafés, restaurants, and spa facilities.

Come on a weekday if you can because on the weekends, the main ski runs can get packed.

Surrounded by thick pine tree forest, Lake Abant is a freshwater lake in northwest Turkey, 39 kilometers south of the city of Bolu.

The lake sits at the center of a national park at around 1,200 meters high and covers an area of just over 1.2 square kilometers.

With walking trails looping around the lake and both bike and horse riding available on the trails, it's a year-round destination for visitors wanting a nature escape.

In winter, though, photographers flock here to capture snaps of the winter wonderland vistas on strolls around the lake. During the depths of this season, the entire lake surface freezes, and the pine trees are frozen white, turning the lake area into a sublime snowy panorama.

Sitting roughly halfway between Istanbul and Ankara, this one of Turkey's most accessible destinations to seek out Turkey's wintry vistas.

The vast majority of Turkey's tourists arrive on the coast during July and August, but if you want to escape the crowds at Turkey's most famous archaeological sites, head here in winter instead.

Sure, you'll have to pack warm clothes but there are plenty of blue sky days even within the depths of winter on Turkey's Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines. Although snow will not be a problem along the coast, which only has a mild winter, you do have to be prepared for rain, so don't forget your umbrella.

While many smaller resort towns, along the coast, where tourism is focused on sun-and-sand vacations, almost completely shut up shop during the winter months, larger towns and cities such as Fethiye and Antalya , and towns where the tourism focus is on archaeological attractions, such as Selçuk , offer plentiful accommodation year-round.

Room rates at most hotels are massively discounted from November to March, adding an extra budgeting bonus into a winter stay.

This is the season to come if you want to see Ephesus , Aspendos , and Pamukkale without the tour bus crowds. At some of the Mediterranean's most famous ancient Lycian sites, such as Xanthos and Tlos, you might even be lucky enough to be the only visitor on-site.

It may not be as popular as Turkey's other ski centers, but Sarıkamıs is something of an in-the-know secret among winter sports lovers.

Sitting 55 kilometers southwest of Kars, Sarıkamıs is particularly revered among its fans for its excellent powder snow, which skiers here claim are the best snow conditions in Turkey.

The long season skiing opportunities, usually from early December through to April, also make it a favorite destination with winter visitors.

There are four long pistes, surrounded by thick pine forest, and three connecting lifts.

Skiing and snowboarding here is good for beginners through to advanced skiers, and the resort area has five hotels and full equipment rental facilities.

After a day of sightseeing in chilly temperatures, there is no better way to heat up than indulging in a steam, soak, and scrub in a hammam (Turkish bath).

Before houses got bathrooms, the local hammam was where people went to bathe. Today many of the grander hammam buildings, which date from the Ottoman era, provide bathers with both an opportunity to see the distinctive domed and marble-clad interiors of these historic monuments, as well as sample the squeaky clean traditional bathing experience.

In winter, the sauna-like steam room, which begins the hammam bathing process, is a particular treat.

Istanbul is home to the most famous hammams, many of which have been gloriously restored to their original finery and provide plenty of spa-style add-on treatments, as well as the basic, steam, scrub, and soak.

You'll find hammams throughout the country, though, as well as thoroughly modern hammams inside bigger hotels and resorts.

For pristine natural landscapes of dense forested hills and lakes, head to Yedigöller (Seven Lakes) National Park.

This protected wilderness area, inland in the Black Sea region, is a haven for nature lovers throughout the year. In the warmer months, people head here to hike and camp, but in winter, it's prime territory for snowshoe hiking and photography.

Early in winter, before the leaves have yet dropped, the forest is still a riot of autumnal color, while once the depths of winter has set in, snow blankets the landscape, and the white-on-white vistas here are phenomenal.

The main lakes are Büyük Göl (Big Lake) and Nazlı Göl, which have wooden boardwalks and piers along the shore for great photography opportunities.

Yedigöller National Park is 42 kilometers north from Bolu and 112 kilometers south from the Black Sea coast town of Zonguldak.

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Turkey in Winter: Best Places to Visit and Things to do

With centuries of fascinating history, some of the world’s best architecture, epic nature and mouthwatering cuisine, Turkey is one of the best countries to visit any time of year.

While many tourists visit the beaches in the summer, there are countless things to do in Turkey in winter.

Go skiing in the mountains, hike through forest and along the coastline, explore historical castles and feel the magic of Turkish cities.

Plus, Turkey’s exceptional cuisine is even more delicious when the weather’s cold.

Here are the best things to do and places to visit in Turkey in the winter.

Table of Contents

What’s the weather like in Turkey in winter?

Before packing your bags to visit Turkey in winter, take a look at the weather conditions.

Turkey’s a huge country with different climates, so the weather will vary greatly depending on where you’re going.

But contrary to popular opinion, Turey does have very cold winters! 

In Turkey, it’s possible to experience all four seasons at the same time.

While you can catch the winter sun on the western and southern coasts of Turkey, you can also enjoy views of the eastern mountains blanketed with snow during the depths of winter.

For example, while the average high temperature in Istanbul, located in the northwest of the country, in winter is 11°C (52°F), in Antalya, located in the south of the country, the highest average temperature in winter is 17°C (63°F).

On the other hand, weather conditions in ski resorts usually experience extreme cold – although the exact temperature varies depending on their location.

While the average low temperature in Erciyes ski resort is -8°C (18°F), the average low temperature in Erzurum Palandöken ski resort can reach the almost polar -16 °C (-3°F).

So make sure you pack your bags wisely, thinking about the location and activities you will be doing during your winter holiday in Turkey.

Things to do in Turkey in the winter

Turkey is a country that you can visit both in summer and winter. With dynamic history, exceptional cuisine, and natural beauty, Turkey has always been one of the most attractive countries for travellers. 

The country draws visitors from all around the world. Many of these travellers come during their summer holiday to enjoy Turkey’s spectacular coastlines, or spend a city break enjoying the culture and architecture of Istanbul (which is one of the best-connected cities in the world).

But tourists still visit in winter – and many say that they prefer the cooler winter climate to Turkey’s sweltering summer.

So, what are the best things to do in Turkey in winter? Here’s the top five.

• Skiing: Did you know that Turkey is an incredible ski destination? The country has fantastic mountains for snowsports and towns that are catered toward skiing tourism, especially in the eastern part of the country.
• Winter Sun: Tourists visiting southern Turkey in winter from less sunny countries (mainly in Northern Europe!) usually spend their holidays on the coastline which basks in the winter sun. If the weather is warm and you don’t mind slightly chilly water, you can even swim!
• History: Turkey is one of the historically richest countries in the world. If you are looking for indoor activities, there are countless indoor attractions and museums to visit. It’s even possible to find various historical artefacts from 1750 BC to the present day in Anatolia, where many civilizations, such as the Roman Empire and the Ottoman Empire, ruled.

• Nature: Besides its historical richness, Turkey is also one of the richest countries in terms of natural beauty. Hiking, camping, and climbing are popular activities during the winter as well as the summer; in fact, many tourists prefer outdoor activities in the cooler winter rather than the sweltering summer.
• Food: With well-known foods, like döner, baklava, and kebap, Turkey is one of the best destinations to try local food. In the winter, Turkey has plenty of wholesome dishes that will warm you up!

Places to visit in Turkey in winter

 Let’s start with the biggest and oldest city in Turkey: Istanbul.

Istanbul is one of the best-connected cities in the world when it comes to flights; you can fly here from all over Europe, Asia, Africa and even to the Americas.

Besides the exceptional transportation links, Istanbul is an incredible city to visit during winter thanks to its variety of indoor activities, a wealth of history and extraordinary restaurants.

The city binds the European and Asian continents and was the capital of two of the world’s most significant empires, the Roman and Ottoman.

You’ll need almost a month or maybe more to finish exploring Istanbul, but here’s where to start!

Arguably the most popular destination in Istanbul is the Hagia Sophia , which dates back to 537 AD and was originally built as a Christian basilica in Roman Constantinople.

After the fall of Constantinople, it turned into a mosque, then it was a museum and recently turned back into a mosque!

Plus, the beautiful Blue Mosque is well worth visiting, and Süleymaniye Mosque stands on top of one of Istanbul’s seven hills.

Istanbul is also famous for its bazaars, which are among the most incredible sights of Turkey. Visit the Grand Bazaar to go souvenir shopping and take in the smells and tastes of the Spice Bazaar.

Museum-wise, don’t miss Topkapi Palace Museum , Pera Museum’s Ottoman-era Art and the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, amongst many others!

Plus, take in views from the top of Galata Tower and see the city from a Bosphorus Strait cruise.

There’s so much to see in Istanbul any time of year – it’s the perfect winter city break !

Magical Cappadocia is ideal for a winter holiday in Turkey. With beautiful snow-covered landscapes and captivating history, Cappadocia has always been a popular spot in the winter months.

When it comes to accommodation in Cappadocia, make sure that you stay in a cave hotel; the region is famous for them.

Also, watch sunrise and sunset over the enigmatic landscape, do a hot air balloon ride at dawn and discover an underground city on a guided tour. 

You can also do some incredible hikes, visit Uçhisar Castle and the open-air museum to learn a little more about the ancient sites in the area, and take part in an ATV tour around the landscape.

Antalya is possibly the best place in Turkey for winter sun.

The southern coastal city of Turkey, it’s one of the best places to visit in winter if you want to swim in the Mediterranean ( the warmest month is November !) or enjoy beaches.

It also has some impressive hotels, most of which are still open in the colder months; a top tip is to look for hotels with heated pools that are open year-round! 

If you don’t fancy a swim, it’s worth seeing all of the historical attractions in Antalya.

Explore museums like the Suna Inan Kırac Kaleici Museum, Atatürk’s Museum, and the Antalya Archaeology Museum; Antalya is an ancient city with countless historic ruins.

Alternatively, you can both go skiing in nearby Saklikent or try watersports off the coastline of Antalya!

I especially love Antalya in March – it’s one of Europe’s warmest places this month , and there are hardly any crowds.

Kas is a glorious peaceful town, popular as a summer destination. 

While it’s heaving in the peak tourist season, it is also wonderful when the summer crowds depart!

Besides catching the winter sun, Kas is known for its diving sites.

Diving isn’t as common in the winter months, but you can still do some trips to Kas’ sites, particularly in November.

It’s also a wonderful town to just take in, explore the coastline (it’s part of the Lycian Way) and enjoy some of the glorious beaches!

There’s also plenty of ancient sites to enjoy in and around Kas, including the gorgeous crumbling ancient city of Myra, which is located in nearby Demre.

You can read more about visiting Kas in winter here!

Izmir is the third biggest city in Turkey. With wonderful culture and epic natural beauty, is one of the best places to visit in the country.

Offering fairly mild weather and fascinating historical attractions, there’s so much to enjoy in Izmir in winter .

While in Izmir, don’t miss city tours of Alsancak and Konak (these run even in winter), the authentic Kemeraltı bazaar, the city views from Kadifekale and the Historical Elevator and the surrounding beautiful villages.

Plus, there are plenty of winter festivals that take place in Izmir!

Fethiye is a famous summer holiday location in Southern Turkey, and it can be very crowded in the warmer months!

However, this beautiful coastal town during winter is much more peaceful, and it boasts lots of outdoor activities like paragliding and hiking.

Bodrum is a popular city to visit in the summer months, but it is also a wonderful place for winter; it’s a year-round destination, unlike some small towns in Turkey.

As well as enjoying long walks on Bodrum’s stunning beaches, don’t miss the many historical attractions of the city, including Bodrum Castle, Museum of Underwater Archaeology, Antique Theatre of Bodrum, the historic Bodrum Port and Myndos Gate.

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is one of the best destinations for history fans. In the city, you’ll find the gorgeous mausoleum of the father of modern Turkey, Atatürk, who was the first president of Turkey.

Also don’t miss the Anatolian Natural History Museum, Ankara Castle, the TBMM Museum which is the first modern parliament building of the Republic of Turkey, the Air Forces Museum and the Mineral Research and Exploration Şehit Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum.

All of these museums are open year-round, and they’re perfect to explore if the weather’s chilly outside!

Plus, Ankara has a wonderful selection of local restaurants to try authentic Turkish cuisine, and plenty of hammams – Turkish bathhouses that are ideal for warming up in if you’re cold!

If you want to travel to somewhere truly unique that not many tourists make it to, head to Kars. It is one of the best places to visit in Turkey in winter with outstanding natural beauty and historical artefacts.

But one of the best reasons to visit Kars in winter is the journey to reach it!

The Eastern Express is a historical and unique train journey that departs from Ankara and travels 1300 kilometres east toward Kars.

During this journey, you’ll pass through cities including Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan, and Erzurum, all covered by a blanket of snow, and end your journey on the frozen lake named Çıldıron Kars.

January is the best time to take the Eastern Express for magical snowy scenes, and the journey takes 25 hours.

When you get to Kars, don’t miss the castle, the Kars Cathedral, Museum of Apostles, Church of St Gregory and do a day trip to the fascinating abandoned city of Ani.

Çanakkale 

Çanakkale is perhaps most famous for wars that took place in its perimeters, including World War I and the Greek War.

If you are a history buff, Çanakkale is a perfect destination, as stories of WWI, Gallipoli , and the ancient city of Troy are accessible from here.

In winter, the city is less crowded and all of the attractions are still open.

In Çanakkale, you can discover the Ancient City of Troy, see the Trojan Horse from the 2004 movie “Troy” and visit the Troy Museum to see archaeological discoveries.

Also, head Gallipoli, and learn about one of WWI’s major battles, where 500,000 men lost their lives. Europe in Winter editor Claire’s great-great uncle was sadly one of them.

Also, visit Bozcaada and try the local Turkish wine alongside the delicious food and head to the Altar of Zeus and the ancient Greek ruins at Assos for a spectacular view of the Aegean Sea.

Located between Istanbul and Ankara, Bolu is a small town with Ottoman architecture. However, the main attraction is not the city itself but its mountain.

Here, you can relax at tiny chalets in Yedigöller National Park while relishing in the stunning view of Lake Abant, a freshwater lake covered in a blanket of snow.

There’s also the charming Lake Gölcük, equally beautiful in winter. Plus, if you fancy snowsports, the Kartalkaya-Bolu Ski Resort is nearby.

Pamukkale 

Pamukkale is an area where you can find both natural beauty and history together. The area gets its name from the travertines, which look like a cotton castle, and it’s also famous for its thermal pools.

If you have cardiovascular disease, skin problems, or intesting problems, you should visit Pamukkale in winter to benefit from these thermal pools.

Of course, they’re also worth visiting to admire the spectacle and relax!

The best time of year to use the thermal pools is February, which is neither as hot as summer nor as cold as January. The sunset is also incredible from here!

In addition to the thermal pools, the Roman ruins of Hierapolis, which are a UNESCO historical heritage site, are located here, along with other ancient Greek cities like Laodicea and Aphrodisias.

If you’re staying in places like Izmir or Marmaris, it’s possible to take day trips to Pamukkale, even in the winter season. 

If you are looking for a destination where you can enjoy both indoor activities and winter sports, head to Bursa.

Sitting at the foot of the Uludağ, Bursa attracts many tourists during winter. Whether you want to discover historical sites with UNESCO World Heritage status, or ski in one of the best ski resorts in Turkey, Bursa offers a range of things to do in winter.

The city was the capital of the Ottoman Empire before Fatih Sultan Mehmet conquered Istanbul (with its old name, Constantinopolis).

That’s why you can find a lot of museums, historical artefacts, and mosques in Bursa.

Some of these historical sites that were awarded UNESCO World Heritage status like Ulu Cami, the Yildirim Bazaar, and the Karagoz Museum.

Bursa sits at the foot of the Uludağ, where you can find the biggest ski resorts in Turkey. Uludağ is the highest peak in the region, at 2543 meters.

The ski resort welcomes visitors with 34 accommodation facilities and slopes of different levels.

If you are looking for a place to ski or snowboard, Erciyes, Kayseri is one of the best places in Turkey.

The Erciyes Ski Resort, which has more than thirty red, black and blue slopes, is one of the most modern ski resorts in Turkey.

Plus, the ski season lasts almost six months here!

55 km away from the centre of Kars, Sarıkamış is another prime Turkish snow sports destination .

Sarıkamış Ski Resort attracts thousands of people in winter with over 21 kilometres of slopes for skiing or snowboarding.

What makes Sarıkamış special is its type of snow. Here, you’ll find powder crystal snow, which isn’t found anywhere else in Turkey (it’s usually found in the Alps!).

This type of snow is the most comfortable and safest for skiing – so if you’re just learning the snow sport, Sarıkamış is a great option!

Konya is a traditional Turkish city not too far from Cappadocia. 

While Konya has very cold winters – sometimes cooler than locations in Northern Europe – virtually all of its attractions, like historic mosques and the Mausoleum of Mevlana Rumi, who was a Persian Sufi mystic, are indoors and open throughout the winter months. 

Konya is often accredited for being one of the birthplaces of Sufism. 

Konya is also home to a few lovely and affordable hotels with traditional Turkish hammams, where you can enjoy pools with heated water and a traditional Turkish spa. 

FAQs about Turkey in winter

How cold is turkey in winter .

It really depends on where you go in Turkey! You might see temperatures of over 20 degrees Celcius (70s Fahrenheit) if you’re on the south coast, but some of the mountains can have temperatures that are far below freezing.

Is it good to visit Turkey in December? 

Although Turkey isn’t a majority Christian country (the government estimates around 99% are Muslim , but it’s not secular and the number of practicing Muslims is lower), Christmas is still celebrated in Turkey – just don’t expect the same festivities as other European countries.

The weather can be warm in December, especially in places like Antalya, but rain is also common in this month!

Is Turkey worth visiting in January? 

Yes, whether you want a winter city break in Istanbul, a ski trip in some of Turkey’s mountains or to catch some winter sun on the south coast, you’ll find plenty to love in Turkey in January.

Where is the warmest place in Turkey in winter? 

The Antalya region is usually regarded as the warmest place in Turkey in the winter.

Can you sunbathe in Turkey in December? 

Possibly! You may be lucky and get temperatures of around 20 degrees and not much cloud.

What is the coldest month in Turkey? 

January is generally the coldest month.

What is the best month to go to Turkey? 

I personally prefer Turkey in winter – the country has a certain kind of magic that isn’t as present in summer. I’d recommend visiting in February or March for slightly warmer weather!

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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Home > 53 Top Destinations In Turkey: Best Places To Visit In Turkey For All

53 Top Destinations In Turkey: Best Places To Visit In Turkey For All

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Here is your complete guide to all the best places to visit in Turkey, which I have discovered as a local.

This guide has beautiful places in Turkey, from ancient sites, palaces, rock formations, beautiful beaches, hot air ballooning, scenic views, underground cities, amusement parks, and all the most famous places with countless historical landmarks and a seaside town (or 10) for every kind of traveler.

Best Places In Turkey To Visit For Every Kind Of Traveler

• Beach Resorts

Top Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want To Shop

Places to visit in turkey if you want to party, places to visit in turkey if you want to eat, places to visit in turkey if you want nature.

• Saklikent National Park Antalya
• Koprulu National Park
• Butterfly Valley
• İztuzu Beach
• Mount Ararat

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want History And Archeological Sites

• City Of Safranbolu
• Mount Nemrut
• Göbekli Tepe

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want Authentic Culture

• Any village

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want To Go Off The Beaten Track

• Northern And Central Turkey
• Black Sea Coast
• Gelemis 
• The Lycian Way

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Like The Cold

• Uludağ Ski Resort

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want To Sunbathe

• South Coast
• The Blue Lagoon

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Find The Best Places To Visit On The Map

There are so many things to do in Turkey, from the lush greenery stretching from Fethiye to the Anatolia region to the ancient churches and underground cities waiting to be discovered.

Where Are The Best Places To See

You’re wrong if you think that Turkey is all beaches and Istanbul! Turkey is a vast country packed with major cities, towns, villages, beach resorts, and the list goes on.

That means there is something for everyone – and I’ll show you my favorites. My guide offers all the best places in Turkey to visit for history, food, nature, partying, and more.

Sure, not every destination will suit you, but I aim to provide a list so you know what you want to do and experience; then, you can find the ideal place that will suit you best.

If you want to know the best cities to visit in Turkey, jump ahead here .

For instance, if you want to enjoy the nightlife, it’s not a good idea to head somewhere like Adana, Aydin, Trabzon, or Rize. However, my husband and I always find fantastic opportunities to party the night away in Istanbul, Izmir, the province of Antalya, and any beach resort south on the Mediterranean coast .

If you want to enjoy history, you’re probably not going to find what you’re looking for that much in Marmaris (well, we have never). Still, in Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, you’ll have more history than you can possibly absorb into your brain! With Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Bosphorus Strait, and dozens of Turkish baths , to name a few.

It comes down to what you want and then figuring out where you want to go.

Let me give you some ideas on where to go in Turkey…

We’ve got the low down on the best places to visit in Turkey to shop!

1. Istanbul And Izmir

You can find everything in Istanbul —in fact. Taksim is the ideal spot for high-street stores, but there are also huge malls across the city, such as Cevahir and the Mall of Istanbul .

Izmir is also a great shopping spot , with several other malls and plenty of your international names. If you want traditional souvenirs , you’ll find these in most places, but you can’t beat Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar for choice and experience!

• Guide To Istanbul
• Guide To Izmir

We’ve compiled a list of the best places in Turkey to party.

2. Istanbul – Izmir – Antalya – Beach Resorts

Most people are surprised when they see the amount of nightlife in Turkey . Sure, it’s not everywhere you look, and some of the smaller cities and towns still tend to be more traditional in terms of beer houses, mainly for men, etc., but you’ll find many International and modern bars, too.

Taksim and Besiktas in Istanbul are ideal for party fans , but Izmir and the Antalya Province will tick your boxes, too. Taksim is home to some seriously loud nightclubs if that’s what you’re after!

Alternatively, the beach resorts on the Mediterranean Sea , such as Marmaris , Gumbet, Bodrum, and Alanya, also have plenty of bars and nightclubs.

• Istanbul Nightlife
• Where To Stay In Izmir
• Best Beach Towns On The Turkish Coast

If you like to eat, here are the best places to visit in Turkey .

Adana is a beautiful city of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modernity. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Seyhan River and visit the Grand Mosque’s striking architecture. Don’t forget to savor Adana kebabs , renowned for their delicious blend of flavors.

• Guide To A Turkish Breakfast
• What To Eat In Turkey
• How To Tip In Turkey

4. Istanbul

There is nothing you won’t find here, including traditional Turkish food. Turkish food all over the country is delightful , and if you can head to a small village, be sure to try the homemade fare there.

You need to chow down in Istanbul and not miss trying the street food , as it’s not only cheap but also super filling.

• Lesser Known Istanbul Street Food
• Best Rooftop Restaurants & Bars In Istanbul
• Where To Eat In Istanbul

Nature lovers, take note; here are the places in Turkey to head to to get your dose of lush greenery.

5. Saklikent National Park Antalya Or Cappadocia

One of the most iconic travel photos worldwide is one of a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia , which is a true must-visit. The unique landscape around here is something to behold, and the so-called ‘fairy chimneys’ formed by years of rock erosion are genuinely magnificent. You can even stay in a traditional cave hotel!

Alternatively, or possibly also, head to Antalya’s Saklikent National Park. You can go canyoning, rock climbing, or sailing down the river, but whatever you choose to do, it’s genuinely breathtaking.

• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Guide
• The Best Cappadocia Tours
• Where To Stay In Cappadocia
• Nearest Airport To Cappadocia

6. Koprulu National Park

Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in Koprulu National Park. Raft down the Köprüçay River through stunning canyons or go hiking amidst pine forests. The park’s natural beauty and outdoor activities make it an excellent destination for adventure seekers.

7. Pamukkale

Its name means “cotton castle” in Turkish; Pamukkale is one of Turkey’s best tourist attractions that everyone will love, from kids to the most well-traveled people.

Whether you’re into nature or not, you’ll undoubtedly be impressed by the extraordinary features of this vast thermal spring. This natural UNESCO World Heritage Site is in inland southeastern Turkey but is a great day trip for major coastal cities.

Millennia of endless water flow and mineral deposits have created a stunning collection of travertine terraces, pure water, and snow-white limestone shimmering in the Turkish sun. Since antiquity, people have visited these hot springs and pools when it was the location of the Roman city of Hierapolis (Holy City).

Pamukkale is easily one of the best places to go in Turkey for a day trip from the coastal resorts. Although the terraces and pools are off-limits to visitors nowadays, you can still see them up close on footpaths. The on-site Roman ruins and museums are worth visiting , too.

• Guide To Pamukkale
• Best Thermal Hotels In Pamukkale
• How To Get From Pamukkale To Cappadocia

Nestled on Turkey’s southwestern coast, Akyaka is a hidden gem that beckons travelers with its serene charm. This picturesque town is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and water sports lovers.

The crystalline waters of the Azmak River wind their way through Akyaka, offering opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. Stroll along the charming boardwalk and indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Akyaka’s unique architecture, with its traditional Mugla houses , adds to the town’s allure.

For a perfect day in Akyaka, explore the surrounding pine forests and soak in the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.

• Why You Need To Visit Akyaka

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Places to visit in turkey if you want history.

So, where are the best places to visit in Turkey to learn about history?

9. Istanbul

Turkey is packed with history; if you want to study natural history, you should head to the southeastern region. While traveling there isn’t forbidden by any means and is relatively safe provided you’re careful , certain restrictions and places are not ideal.

Many governments warn their citizens not to go to the border area with Syria, for example. This is quite a shame because Mardin, which isn’t too far from the Syrian border, is one of Turkey’s oldest and most historic sites .

Despite that, Istanbul is the best place to go in Turkey for history, hands down, if not the entire world. There are more historical places to see in Turkey than you will ever have time to visit on one vacation!

• The Istanbul Museum Pass – Save Time & Money
• Whirling Dervishes In Istanbul
• 17 Amazing Mosques In Istanbul Not To Miss
• Best Museums In Istanbul

10. Çannakale

Çannakale, located on the shores of the Dardanelles, offers a gateway to ancient Troy and the historic Gallipoli Peninsula. History buffs will be enthralled by the remnants of the ancient city of Troy, where the famous Trojan War unfolded. The Gallipoli Battlefields, a poignant reminder of World War I, is a solemn but essential stop for those interested in history.

Çannakale’s waterfront promenade provides breathtaking views of the strait, and the city’s warm hospitality ensures a memorable stay. Experience the intersection of history and natural beauty in Çannakale.

11. Ancient City Of Ephesus

Located near the present-day town of Selçuk on Turkey’s southeast coast , Ephesus is one of the world’s most magnificent ancient ruins and is one of the top places to go in Turkey for ruins.

This ancient Greek city dates back to the 10th century BC, after which it grew to become one of the twelve cities of the Ionian League in Classical Greece . The Roman Empire conquered this stunning city in the 2 nd century BC.

Now, the ruins of this ancient city are a UNESCO World Heritage Site ; Ephesus is easily one of the best sites in Turkey to visit ancient architecture and history. It was home to the fabled Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Simultaneously, other iconic buildings include the imposing Library of Celsus, the Gate of Augustus, and the Tomb of John of the Apostle. If you only have time to visit one historic site in Turkey, this should be it.

• What To See & Do In Ephesus
• Tours From Istanbul To Ephesus
• Getting From Izmir To Ephesus

12. Aspendos

Another spectacular Turkish site dating from antiquity is Aspendos. This ancient Greco-Roman city is near Antalya on the southern coast of Turkey. There’s plenty of history to discover and learn about here, making it one of the best places in Turkey for history buffs to visit. The absolute star main attraction, however, is the massive Aspendos Theater.

One of the best-preserved theaters from antiquity, the Aspendos Theater, dating from the 2 nd century AD, once seated no fewer than 12,000 spectators. It is exceptional for its superb acoustics and impressive architectural design. The Theater of Aspendos is even more remarkable because it’s still in use today—it hosts the annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.

13. City Of Safranbolu

Another one of the many beautiful places in Turkey , the old City of Safranbolu, was an essential stop on the main east-west trade route between Europe and Asia in the 13th century. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site for its significance to historic trade and its well-preserved buildings.

The Çarşı District is home to beautiful Ottoman Empire architecture, including hundreds of red-roofed traditional houses that line cobblestone streets. Other top attractions in Safranbolu include the 17th-century caravansary of Cinci Han and the restored Tarihi Cinci Hamam bathhouse.

• Day Trips Ideas From Istanbul

14. Mount Nemrut

By now, you’ve probably noticed that several of the best places to visit in Turkey are historical or cultural sites. And here we have yet another historic UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey. Mount Nemrut is no different.

Also known as Nemrut Dağ, Mount Nemrut is situated in southeastern Turkey and is one of the tallest mountains east of the Taurus mountain range.

This striking mountain is topped with several ruins, buildings, and famous statues. It is assumed to be the mausoleum of Antiochus, the former late-Hellenistic king of Commagene, which originated after Alexander’s empire fell. Seeing the temple tomb’s colossal statues and sculpted slabs is an experience that makes the trip out there more than worth it.

• Top Landmarks In Turkey
• Should You Visit Southeastern Turkey

So, where are the best places to visit in Turkey to experience culture?

15. Trabzon

If you’re looking for a breathtaking Turkish city to add to your travel list, look no further than Trabzon. This Black Sea gem in northeast Turkey is known for its stunning natural scenery , rich history, and delicious cuisine.

One of the must-see sights in Trabzon is the Sumela Monastery. Nature lovers will also enjoy exploring the Uzungol Plateau , hiking through the Altindere Valley National Park, and relaxing at one of the many scenic beaches.

No visit to Trabzon would be complete without sampling some of the local dishes like hamsi (anchovies), karadeniz pidesi (black sea bread), and kuyu kebabi (lamb cooked underground).

So, if you’re looking for a city with everything – from beautiful landscapes to tasty food – make sure to put Trabzon, Turkey, on your radar !

• Guide To Trabzon

16. Sanliurfa

Sanliurfa, often called the “City of Prophets,” is a unique place of historical and spiritual significance. According to local legend, it is the birthplace of the biblical prophet Abraham. Visit the vibrant bazaars of Sanliurfa, where you can shop for colorful textiles, spices, and handicrafts.

The city’s stunning Balikligol (Pool of Sacred Fish) is a serene oasis surrounded by gardens and historical sites. Witness the mesmerizing dance of the sacred fish, which is said to bring good luck. As you explore Sanliurfa, you’ll be immersed in a city where legends from ancient times and modern life coexist harmoniously.

17. Diyarbakir

Diyarbakir, located in southeastern Turkey, is a city of ancient walls and rich traditions. The city’s iconic black basalt walls, dating back to Roman times, encircle the old town and stand as a symbol of its resilience through centuries.

Explore the bustling, narrow streets of Diyarbakir, where you can savor traditional Kurdish cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to taste the delectable mutton dishes and baklava. The city’s Grand Mosque and the Hevsel Gardens along the Tigris River are must-visit attractions. Diyarbakir’s cultural heritage and warm hospitality make it a popular place for those seeking authenticity.

Konya is a city in Turkey that is full of history and culture. There are many fun things to see and do in Konya, making it a great place to visit. Some top sights include the Mevlana Museum, the Alaeddin Mosque, and the Selimiye Mosque.

There are also plenty of outstanding restaurants and shops to explore. If you’re looking for a city full of character and culture, Konya is definitely worth a visit .

• How To Get From Istanbul To Konya

Mardin, perched on a hilltop in southeastern Turkey , is a captivating blend of history and culture. The city’s ancient stone buildings, adorned with intricate carvings, transport you back in time.

Explore the narrow alleyways of the old town, where the scent of spices fills the air from bustling bazaars. The iconic Mardin Houses , made of local beige stone, offer a glimpse into the region’s architectural heritage. Don’t miss the chance to savor traditional Mardin cuisine, which combines flavors from Arabic and Turkish influences. As you wander through Mardin, you’ll discover a city where history and tradition harmoniously coexist.

20. Any Village

Many tour operators will take you to local villages and show you the local way of life . If you visit cities and towns , you’ll surely see some of them, but they’re usually touched by modern life and have changed a little. You must visit a local village to see how people live off the land, focus all their time and energy on family, and value communities. The food is also excellent!

Turkish people, by nature, are very welcoming, and hospitality is high on their list. If you meet a local family and they invite you to their home, you’re more than blessed in terms of the culinary delights that will come your way, too!

The good news is that many villages are close to the main tourist resorts on the south coast of the Turkish Riviera, so you can visit them if you hire a car.

Get off the beaten track and visit one of these options, which are among Turkey’s best places to visit.

21. Northern And Central Turkey

Turkey is a safe country, and provided you listen to advice, e.g., the advice we gave before about not going close to the Syrian border; you’re more than fine. This is a huge country, and it’s exceptionally welcoming. Thanks to a very high-quality long-distance bus network, traveling around Turkey is straightforward, meaning you can go from place to place relatively cheaply.

If you want to leave the main tourist resorts and cities, head to the Black Sea Coast , with destinations in Turkey such as Rize and Trabzon. Do be aware that during the winter , however, this part of Turkey sees heavy snowfall, but it’s beautiful to see! Central Turkey is also a delight, and this is where the capital city of Ankara is situated.

• Guide To The Black Sea Coast
• Surfing The Black Sea

22. Gaziantep

Gaziantep, often called the “City of Gastronomy,” is a culinary haven in southeastern Turkey. Renowned for its delectable dishes and rich culinary heritage, Gaziantep offers a feast for the senses. Sample the world-famous Baklava, prepared with layers of thin pastry, pistachios, and honey, at local bakeries.

Explore the Gaziantep Castle and the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses remarkable ancient mosaics. The bustling markets of Gaziantep are perfect for indulging in traditional sweets and savory delights. With its culinary delights and historical sites, Gaziantep promises a delightful journey for foodies.

Edirne, a city steeped in history, is a treasure trove of architectural marvels and cultural richness. Known for its stunning Selimiye Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edirne’s skyline is dominated by its magnificent dome and minarets.

The city’s annual Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival is a testament to its cultural heritage, attracting participants and spectators from all over the world. Edirne’s Ottoman-style bridges, including the Meric River Bridge, offer captivating views and a glimpse into the past. Sample Edirne’s famous liver and meatball dishes at local eateries and immerse yourself in the grandeur of this historic city.

We’ve got the tourist spots in Turkey that are still fun while cold.

Do you think the best places to visit in Turkey are reserved only for the summer months?

Wintertime in Turkey can be magical, a great opportunity to relax, recharge your batteries, and see the traditional way of life. Of course, you can still embrace plenty of hectic action in the large cities, especially Istanbul .

• Christmas In Turkey
• Best Things To Do In Istanbul In Winter
• Istanbul In January
• Why You Should Visit Turkey In Winter

24. Cappadocia

Did you know that Cappadocia Is open all year round?

This beautiful fairy chimney landscape in Central Turkey is iconic for the hot air balloons flying high at sunrise every day. You might not know that Cappadocia isn’t close, so you can still head there and enjoy the beautiful scenery even when the weather is freezing and the snow is falling.

While hot air balloons are subject to cancellation at any time of year, depending upon weather conditions, it’s more likely to happen during the winter months. Don’t let that stop you, however, as there are many days when flights take off exactly as scheduled!

Even if you can’t get on the balloon, there are many things you can do around Cappadocia, with walking trails, cuisine, museums, archaeological sites , and, of course, the chance to stay in a cave museum!

Winter in Turkey is undoubtedly something you should do. While you might not be able to jump into the sea and get a suntan, you’ll experience something far more valuable – authenticity!

• How To Enjoy Cappadocia In Winter

Places To Visit In Turkey For All

Turkey’s capital city, Ankara , is a modern metropolis with a rich history. Explore the awe-inspiring Atatürk Mausoleum and the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus. The city’s museums, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culinary scene offer a glimpse into contemporary Turkish life.

• Epic Things To Do In Ankara
• Istanbul To Ankara Train Guide
• Istanbul Vs. Ankara – Which To Visit

Top Destinations If You Want To Sunbathe

If you want to know where to go in Turkey for the sun, we’ve got you covered (in 50+).

26. South Coast

Finally, if you want to kick back and relax, get a tan, and enjoy the summer temperatures (although, be warned, they’re hot), you should definitely head south and visit one of the many tourist resorts on the south coast.

• Things To Do In Kas On Turkey’s Southern Coast

27. Side Antik Kenti

Side Antik Kenti is a seaside archaeological wonder that transports you to the ancient world. Stroll through the well-preserved ruins of temples, theaters, and baths overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a perfect blend of history, sun, and sea.

Belek is a coastal paradise known for its luxurious resorts and pristine beaches. It’s a golfer’s dream destination with world-class golf courses. Relax by the turquoise waters, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or explore the nearby ancient ruins.

Lapped by the Mediterranean and Aegean Coast, you can also choose between some of the most beautiful places in Turkey.

• Guide To The Turkish Riviera

29. Kusadasi

Nestled along the stunning Aegean Sea, Kusadasi is a traveler’s paradise . With its crystal-clear waters, Kusadasi offers some of the most breathtaking beaches in Turkey . Beyond the shore, you’ll discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, where history comes to life. Stroll through the bustling bazaars, savor the local cuisine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem.

Bodrum is a coastal town that effortlessly combines history, culture, and natural beauty. The Bodrum Castle, overlooking the marina, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Relax on the pristine beaches during the day, and as the sun sets, immerse yourself in Bodrum’s vibrant nightlife, filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants.

• Where To Stay In Bodrum
• Ferry Day Trip From Kos To Bodrum
• Best Beach Resorts In Bodrum
• Bodrum Beach Guide

If you’re seeking a lively beach destination, Gumbet is the place to be. Known for its energetic atmosphere, Gumbet offers many water sports, beach parties, and vibrant nightlife. During the day, you can explore nearby Bodrum or bask in the sun along the golden shores.

• Aegean Coast Of Turkey – Izmir, Bodrum & Beyond

32. Icmeler

Tucked away on the southwest Turkish coast, Icmeler is a hidden gem known for its tranquil charm. The beach here is a haven for relaxation, and the town’s friendly locals make you feel right at home. You can leisurely stroll along the palm-lined promenade, indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, and unwind in this serene coastal retreat. It is always a place where you can really unwind. 

• Luxury Beach Resorts On The Turkish Riviera

33. Marmaris

Marmaris is a diverse coastal town that caters to all types of travelers. Whether you’re interested in water sports, a boat trip to a secluded cove, or exploring the picturesque old town, Marmaris has it all. Don’t forget to visit the famous Marmaris Castle and enjoy a taste of the local nightlife.

• Marmaris Or Bodrum – Which Is For You
• Marmaris Or Antalya – How To Choose
• Your Guide To Marmaris

With its dramatic cliffside castle and two stunning beaches, Alanya is a coastal paradise with a touch of history that never disappoints me. Explore the centuries-old Alanya Castle, offering panoramic views of the coastline, and then relax on Cleopatra Beach, said to be the favored bathing spot of the ancient queen herself. Alanya’s vibrant markets and dining scene add to the charm of this captivating destination.

Not to mention, these cities along the southern coast are perfect for day-tripping to Greece!

• Alanya Or Antalya – How To Choose
• Your Guide To Alanya

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Turkey Travel FAQs

Should i go to turkey.

Yes! Turkey is an incredible country that offers diverse sights and delicious food. It is a melting pot of culture, history, and modern-day life.

When is the best time to go to Turkey?

If you want beach time, the best time to visit is from May to the end of September. If you’re more interested in sightseeing and city life, Turkey is a year-round destination.

What are the popular places to visit in Turkey?

While Istanbul is an obvious choice, the southern beach resorts are also bustling during the hottest months.

Where is Turkey?

Turkey is located on the border between Eastern Europe and Asia. It is bordered by eight different countries: Armenia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Bulgaria, Greece, Iraq, and Syria.

What is the most beautiful part of Turkey?

All of Turkey is beautiful in different ways. The south coast is particularly home to some of the best towns to visit, and when the sun is shining, it’s blindingly beautiful.

What is Turkey the most famous for?

Turkey is famous for its food, fantastic beaches, centuries-old history, music, and warm welcome to all guests.

Is Turkey safe to visit?

Yes. Turkey is safe like any other country. It is advised to avoid the border areas with Syria and Iraq and to watch your belongings in crowded spaces. 

What are the must-see cities in Turkey?

The must-see cities in Turkey include Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, and Ankara.

Is Turkey cheap or expensive?

Compared to the rest of Europe, Turkey is considered a cheaper country, though prices have risen a lot in the last 12 months.

What are some of the best places to visit in Turkey?

Turkey offers a variety of incredible destinations to explore. Some of the best places to visit include sun-drenched beaches, lush mountains, vibrant cities, and ancient ruins.

What activities can I try while in Turkey?

In Turkey, you can engage in various activities depending on your interests. You can enjoy water sports at the beaches, go hiking in the mountains, explore bustling markets, indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the country.

Are there any recommended places to stay in Turkey?

If you’re looking for accommodation options in Turkey, there are numerous great places to stay. Depending on your preferences, you can choose from luxurious hotels, cozy guesthouses, seaside resorts, or even unique stays like cave hotels in Cappadocia.

How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are there in Turkey?

Turkey boasts an impressive total of 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites showcase the country’s significant historical and cultural landmarks, providing visitors with awe-inspiring experiences.

Whether you are looking for panoramic views, water sports, natural wonders, or small-town feels, you can see that Turkey is the perfect place for everyone to go.

• What To Pack For Turkey
• Explore The 7 Geographical Regions Of Turkey
• Best Hookah Lounges In Istanbul
• 5 Reasons To Visit Gallipoli, Turkey
• Top Things To Do In Istanbul
• How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia
• What To Wear In Turkey: Area-by-Area Guide
• Things To Do In Cappadocia Other Than Ballooning

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8 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Turkey in Winter

I know, I know, many people think that Turkey is exclusively a summer destination. This is probably why they dream to go to Turkey specifically from June to August to enjoy warm (hot) weather, go on boat trips , drive along the Turquoise Coast , and stay in a villa by the sea. But I am trying to understand if everyone has it wrong because Turkey in winter is also amazing. 

In fact, to tell you the truth, for many people winter might be just the best season of all to visit Turkey. And that’s for many reasons – to enjoy cool breezy weather, relax in an all-inclusive hotel for little money, breathe in the fresh sea air without crowds of people nearby, bask in the spa and thermal baths , hike the Lycian Way, go on one of many amazing road trips, or join an excursion without flocks of tourists.

After spending 2 winters in Turkey in two completely different cities and traveling all around the country during this season, I’ve learned a thing or two about Turkish winter.

Now, personally, I think winter is actually one of those times when some regions of Turkey are at their best (sorry summer), but it can also be a bit of a tricky season for travel if you’re not properly prepared.

So this is why I thought to write down these tips and let you know what to expect. And I think you’ll want to book yourself some flights!

What is the Weather in Turkey in Winter Like? 

Turkey as a country is huge and winter weather depends on the region. On one trip you can experience all 5 types of weather if you are traveling around and not staying in just one region. 

The information I am sharing below is about the weather and climate in Turkish popular destinations. If you need a more detailed weather report for a lesser-visited town or village , refer to the weather forecast but with no more than 2 weeks in advance.   

Turkey in January

January is the coldest and wettest month for entire Turkey. In North and East Turkey as well as Cappadocia, it snows and the temperature drops below 0. Mountainous regions have a lot of snow and are great for ski trips and snowy escapes.

Southern Turkey on the contrary is green (due to lots of rain) and sees sunny days. Although the average daily number of hours of sunshine is one of the minima in the year – only 6.5 hours of sun every day. Yet, compared to many countries in Europe, where many days in a row can be grey and damp, the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey is generous in terms of the sun.

There are few tourists in Antalya in January , especially in the second half of the month. The first decade is still characterized by increased demand since many travelers from Eastern Europe choose Turkish resorts as a place for recreation and New Year’s holidays. During this period, accommodation prices increase, falling only after the 8th of January, the end of Orthodox Christmas.

But January is really a good month to rent a car in Antalya (prices drop to as low as 5 euros per day) and go on a road trip to Pamukkale , Alanya, and Mersin. 

Another fantastic place to visit in Turkey in January is Karadeniz and its capital Trabzon. It turns into a real winter wonderland with cozy cabins in the mountains and snowy forests. 

See my separate post with more information about the weather and things to do in Turkey in January . 

Does It Snow in Turkey in Winter?

Turkey is located in more than 5 climatic zones. So the amount (or possibility) of snow will depend on where you are.

One of the most popular regions among foreign visitors, the Mediterranean region (with such cities as Antalya, Alania, Kemer, Kas, Side, etc.) is considered the mildest and warmest. This means that in summer it gets very hot there and in winter never too cold.

The temperature does not drop below zero anywhere in the Mediterranean except for the mountains nearby where mountain peaks have huge snowcaps until April-May.

So if you are wondering where to find snow places in Southern Turkey in winter because you actually love cold and want a bit of winter wonderland, then you will find it in the ski resort Saklikent near Antalya . 

From Istanbul, the best snowy places in winter are Golcuk Nature Park in Bolu, Seven Lakes NP north of Bolu, Sapanca Lake area, and Uludag National Park near Bursa. You can also find snow on the stretch in the North between Izmit and Amasya. 

Karadeniz region in the North-East is the coldest region in Turkey with more than 80% of the territory seeing snow during the wintertime. In Erzurum city, for example, the average winter temperature is -10C.  

The Aegean Coast of Turkey is rather rainy and slushy than snowy. Once in a while it can snow in Manisa or Izmir but that’s more of a rarity. If snow falls, it usually melts as soon as it touches the ground.

Overall, if I have to summarize, if you are looking for places with snow in Turkey for your holidays, it is better to consider traveling to Central Turkey (including Cappadocia and Ankara), to the North-East or to the mountain resorts.  

Warmest Cities in Turkey in Winter

Among all Turkish cities , the warmest city in winter is Alanya, a resort town located at the southernmost point of the country.

On the one hand, it is surrounded by the Taurus Mountains and on the other by the Mediterranean Sea which creates a unique microclimate that provides warm and comfortable winters for living and visiting. For the whole winter, it rains for only 30-35 days, and the rest of the time the sun shines brightly.

But even with the rain, it doesn’t mean that it’s going to pour all day long. Yes, you can wake up in the morning to the sound of rain but soon after the sun will surely peep through the window until lunchtime or even longer. Overall, there are 325 sunny days a year in Alanya. So even with the rain, you’ll still have a lot of sun too!

And the temperature during the winter months does not drop below 9 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it is comfortable to walk, go biking, join excursions, enjoy the sea air, and spend time outdoors.

My Top 3 Places to Visit in Turkey in Winter

Pamukkale is truly one of the best places to visit in Turley in winter. Why? Because this is not a sea with a beach where you depend on the weather. Yes, it’s windy and yes, the temperature fluctuates between +10+15C. Just pack the right clothes to stay warm and you’ll be able to enjoy the entire region.

In fact, if you want to experience Pamukkale to the fullest and splash in hot springs, you want to visit this destination when the weather is cold. From the end of May to September (the busiest tourist season), it is unbearably hot. 

It is so pleasant to take a dip in hot springs and climb the ancient ruins of Hierapolis without languishing in the heat. And as a bonus, there are several times fewer tourists and prices in hotels are lower in winter too.

If you have time to rent a car, go on a loop road trip from Pamukkale to Ephesus, Izmir, and Bergama with ancient Pergamon . We visited Bergama in winter too and it was incredible. Read my post about it to get inspired.

Few people have an idea how cool Cappadocia gets in winter, giving preference to summer travel to the region when the weather there is just unbearably hot. If you have been thinking of going to Cappadocia during the winter season, I want to encourage you to stop thinking and actually go. And that is why…

Cappadocia with its unique cave hotels  looks like another beautiful planet, absolutely different from the rest of the world.

In fact, this fascinating region of Turkey can (and should!) be visited every season because each season has a lot to offer. But traveling in winter has its own advantages. The most prominent ones are fewer tourists, lower prices, and even more romantic landscapes . With snow on the top of cave cities and heavy clouds hanging over them, Cappadocia reminds more of an unreal fairytale destination where magic lives.

And most of the activities and tours in Cappadocia happen all year round! Hot air balloon flights take place on a daily basis too since most days are nice with light frost around zero and sunny weather. 

If you have a driver’s license, you should also consider renting a car and driving in Cappadocia . Winter is the best season for drives and road trips in the region!

And for more inspiration, check my posts on tips and weather guide to Cappadocia during winter and best things to do.

Side is one of the favorite Mediterranean sea towns where to go in Turkey in winter for a resort vacation and excursions. It’s usually warm and rainy in winter there, but dry days are not uncommon.

The air temperature on average is +15C degrees, it rains quite often and the sea is stormy but the sun is often showing up. It is unlikely that it will be possible to sunbathe and swim. But winter in Side is perfect for pool days and visiting excursions as the most interesting ancient sights are located not far from it.

More than that, with all the frequent rain, Side in winter is not as cold as it may seem to be. This is a very nice time for trips to restaurants to try local Turkish food or enjoy your favorite seafood. Prices for seafood by the way are much lower than in the high season.

Winter is also one of the best times to visit Side ruins, Temple of Apollo, and Historical Museum. You shouldn’t also miss visiting the Manavgat Waterfall, in winter it is very pretty. And if you wish, you can rush to the nearest ski resorts to ski or enjoy the snow. 

If you go to Side for your winter holidays in Turkey, you will not only be able to save on vacation in the low season but also see all the beauty that you cannot see in the summer.

And when you go, do not forget your swimwear. The majority of hotels have great Spa treatments, hammams, and heated pools (often with seawater).

Top 3 Ideas For Things to Do in Turkey in Winter

1) come to turkey turquise coast to celebrate new year.

Turkey as a country doesn’t celebrate New Year but a few destinations such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Turquise coast offer the brightest New Year celebrations for locals and guests alike.

In Antalya, many hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs offer New Year celebration programs. Cities shine with illumination, hotels put up Christmas trees and prepare show programs for guests. 

In Alanya, the holiday atmosphere is already up in December. A large Christmas tree is placed on the boardwalk near the sea and expats arrange a Christmas market. On New Year’s Eve itself, the municipality holds fireworks and the fun in local cafes and bars continues until the morning.

Belek offers the most unique and sophisticated hotels where you can relax. And Antalya prepares concert programs near the Migros shopping centers and on the square of the singing fountains.

Turkey can be a unique place where to celebrate New Year for sure!

Hotels Where to Celebrate New Year in Turkey

If you are planning to go to Turkey for the New Year then seek to leave not later than December 25-28. Everything after that date is much more expensive.

And when choosing a hotel for a winter stay, look for the availability of New Year’s gala dinners and animation programs, pool with heated water, good varied quality food, large territory, high level of service, and good value for money.

Some of my favorite hotels on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey for New Year celebrations are:

• Kaya Palazzo Golf Resort & Spa 5* – an all-inclusive elite family hotel on the first line of Belek. There are 2 indoor heated pools for children and adults, as well as an outdoor heated seawater pool.
• The Land of Legends Kingdom Hotel – an interesting hotel with a completely unique concept. Belongs to the Rixos chain, it is analogous to the famous Disneyland. Already at the entrance to the hotel, you get the feeling that you have entered a fairy-tale world. Everything is stylized with cartoon characters, including bright, beautiful, and clean rooms.
• Trendy Lara Hotel 5* – a family hotel in Antalya with high-quality rooms, outstanding service, and varied food. The hotel has a spa and outdoor/indoor pools with heated water.
• Delphin Imperial Lara – another hotel in Antalya for couples and families with kids. They have 3 pools and varied animation. 
• Barut Hemera – ultra all-inclusive in Side for family vacations. It has 4 outdoor pools, 2 indoor pools, and water slides.

2) Visit Turkish Holidays Celebrations & Festivals

In winter, Turkey has a lot of holidays and festivals that are worth visiting. Here are just some of the most popular and old events:

• The Whirling Dervishes Festival

The Sheb-i-Aruz dance of the dervishes traditionally takes place in December in the town of Konya. Dancers perform in high caps and white robes. And it is believed that during this time the dancers communicate with Allah. During the religious performance, the participants begin to spin very fast what they say makes stress and anxiety go away.

It is definitely a very interesting festival that consists of amazing shows and performances. And Konya is the place to see it with your own eyes.

Speaking of Konya. In winter it gets cold and occasionally snows. But winter is a very nice season to visit this city since there are many architectural wonders and museums, and for the most part you will be inside.

• Camel Wrestling 

Every year at the end of January, thousands of people gather in the area of Selcuk (near fruit wine village Sirince ) to watch the big tournament, which includes camel wrestling. It takes part on the third Sunday of the month.

Several dozen more similar competitions are held in other cities throughout the year as well as in other places in the Middle East (like in Dubai emirate or not far from Doha, Qatar ), but Selcuk has the most famous one.

This festival takes place in 2 stages and lasts 2 days. The first day includes a beautiful ceremony and the 2nd day is devoted only to battles. About a hundred camels, decorated with beads and braided pendants, take part in the battles where they fight for the attention of a female camel. 

At the center of this festival is not so much the fight between the camels as the traditional decorations they wear and the proud owners of the animals themselves. Most fights end in a draw. Moreover, the owners do their best to prevent injury to their pets and, in case of danger, quickly separate the animals. To find out more about this event, see this post . 

• International Istanbul Gastronomy Festival

Usually in February (dates differ each year), Istanbul hosts a very tasty event – the International Istanbul Gastronomic Festival which is also called “Days of Turkish Cuisine”.

The festival is initiated by the Federation of Chefs of Turkey where more than 2000 chefs from Turkey and 25 other countries take part in competitions and culinary shows.

So, if you are visiting Istanbul in February, want to get to know Turkish cuisine better, try many new delicious dishes and just take part in this culinary feast – don’t miss an opportunity to attend the Gastronomy festival! Also, don’t miss some incredible restaurants in Istanbul where you can taste Ottoman cuisine. 

3) Explore Turkey by Car

I am absolutely convinced that Turkey is an amazing country for road trips. And winter is a good season to travel in Turkey by car.

Of course, you won’t be able to go everywhere but why not build your Turkey winter itinerary in that way when you can travel between 2-3 different regions, visit ancient sites, stop for a day or two in cities, check out Turkey’s best mineral springs (best for winter travel !), possibly visit old Turkish villages and natural landmarks. 

A completely different face of the country will open to you if you decide to rent a car and explore unexplored, non-touristy Turkey. To find out about driving in Turkey and where and how to rent a car, my guide here will come in handy.

More Turkey Inspiration

I don’t know if you have seen my other posts about Turkey (I have lots of them!) but here are some more to help you plan your trip:

• 41 Best Places to Visit in Istanbul – Tips For Every Taste & Budget
• Best Weekend Trips From Istanbul – Mostly Likely You Didn’t Hear About
• Cihangir Neighborhood in Istanbul – Guide to One of the Most Famous Istanbul Neighborhoods
• Guide to Sultanahmet – Old Town & Heart of Istanbul
• Turkey Holidays Mistakes – Not to Make!
• 15 Facts About Turkish Culture – That You Need to Know Before Visiting
• See All My Turkey Posts Here

Are you planning a trip to Turkey this coming winter? Anything else you’d like to ask? Don’t be shy and ask your question in the comment section. I’ll do my best to help!

More Winter Travel Guides For Europe

• Visiting Spain in Winter – what is it like? 
• Montenegro in Winter Travel Tips – where to go & what to do
• Cyprus in Winter – 8 Fabulous Things to Do + Winter Travel Tips
• Kyiv, Ukraine in Winter – why it’s a good season to vist
• 12 Cheapest Places Where to Travel in Europe in Winter – best for budget travelers

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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Hi Anya. I so loved all you had to say about Turkey! I hope to be buying a villa in Oludeniz this year 2022.

My Turkish dream has been rudely interupted by 2 yrs of covid, although we may be coming to the end of it now.

I would love to hear more of youre work and travel adventures. Lots of luck.. & Lots of love.. mark

Thank you, Mark, for your kind words! I am writing more about Turkey, so more posts are on the way for sure. I wish you luck with the home purchase, may all your dreams come true! And I hope to see you on my blog again! 🙂

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January in Turkey

Last Updated on December 14, 2023

January ( Ocak ) is the second month of winter in Turkey. The weather is ideal for those wishing a winter holiday. Most tourist spots are covered in snow, offering visitors a crisp breath of air from city life. It is the perfect time for snowboarding and enjoying hot chocolate at a ski resort in Turkey.

Where to Travel in January?

Ski resorts and snowboard centers are among the popular choices for holidayers in Turkey. The most popular spots to enjoy snowy scenery are in Central Anatolia and Eastern Turkey : Bursa (Uludağ Ski Center), Kayseri (Erciyes Ski Center), Antalya (Saklıkent Ski Center), Cappadocia , and Ankara , covered in white snow!

Another popular choice, Istanbul , is rainy and chilling on many days, perhaps with some light snow and intermittent sunny days. The Mediterranean coast beach resorts are in hibernation, rainy, and chilly on many days.

Popular Activities in January

January is the perfect time for getting time off to enjoy the crisp mountain air and stunning scenic views of snowy hills. Popular activities during January include:

• Snowboarding at the snowy mountains of Kayseri, Bursa, Antalya, and Cappadocia. 
• Visiting Cappadocia and witnessing the amazing cliffs covered in snow, riding hot air balloons , staying at authentic cave hotels , and visiting underground cities in this amazing region. 
• Enjoying the wintry sceneries of Turkey, especially the spectacular sights of Trabzon , Rize, and Kars .
• Taking the Touristic Eastern Express trip , and sightseeing the amazing winter scenery of Turkey.

Taking tours of historical sites such as Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofia) , Topkapi Palace , Blue Mosque , Ephesus (Efes) , and Bergama/ Pergamum .

Common Events, Festivals, and Holidays in January

Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 6th (Armenian Orthodox) or 7th (Greek Orthodox). Istanbul's Orthodox churches are filled with worshippers, and the Armenian and Greek Orthodox Patriarchs make the rounds to bless their congregation. Learn more about Christmas in Turkey.

If you are traveling to Turkey on December 31 to celebrate New Year's Day, you can anticipate seeing a variety of fireworks displays, public celebrations, and private celebrations in bars and clubs. 

Percentage of Tourists in Turkey in January

January can be a high season for ski centers and winter spots for local and international tourists. However, resorts are still vacant compared to the high season in summer.  

What Do You Need to Know Before Traveling to Turkey in January

January can get really cold, averaging minus degrees in Anatolian regions and one-digit degrees in coastal regions such as Marmara , Aegean , and Mediterranean regions. So, remember to pack well and plan your trip beforehand. 

Travel to Turkey in January

January is the perfect time for relaxing at a ski resort in Turkey. Many world-famous ski resorts in Turkey offer scenic snow-white hills and world-class service. Also, remember to take advantage of the low season in Turkey to visit famous sites such as Topkapı Palace, Cappadocia, and Ephesus (Efes) without the crowds.

Turkey offers a variety of activities and places to visit in January. So, make travel plans to spend the winter in Turkey. 

—by Tom Brosnahan , updated by Can Turan

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Winter in Turkey: Discover the Warmest Places in Turkey to Visit in the Winter Season

Step into a winter wonderland unlike any other as I take you on a journey to discover the warmest places in Turkey to visit during the chilly season.

Leave behind your heavy coats and embrace the freedom of basking in the sun’s gentle caress.

Picture yourself strolling through Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia in a harmonious blend of culture and history.

Feel the warmth of Antalya’s Mediterranean charm as you soak the sun on its picturesque beaches.

Marvel at the magical fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, where winter unveils a unique beauty that will leave you breathless.

Izmir beckons with its vibrant atmosphere and mild winter weather, offering an escape from the frigid temperatures.

Explore coastal gems along the Aegean and Black Sea regions, where tranquility reigns supreme.

Immerse yourself in ancient history as you wander through Ephesus, experiencing its cultural heritage in winter serenity.

And don’t miss out on Central Turkey’s captivating landscapes that showcase nature’s beauty even during colder months.

Join me as we embark on this unforgettable journey, discovering Turkey’s warmest treasures that will set your spirit free.

Page Contents

Key Takeaways

• Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, and Bursa are some of the warmest places to visit in Turkey during the winter season.
• These cities offer mild winter weather, stunning beaches, a vibrant atmosphere, ski resorts, and hot springs for winter adventures.
• Turkey’s Aegean and Black Sea regions are coastal gems worth exploring during winter.
• Central Turkey, particularly Cappadocia, offers captivating winter landscapes with snow-covered fairy chimneys, premier ski resorts, and winter wonderlands like Göreme National Park.

Winter in Turkey: A Warm Escape to the Hottest Cities

Looking to escape the winter chill? Turkey’s hottest cities offer a warm and inviting getaway during the colder months.

One of the top destinations in Turkey in winter is Istanbul, with its mild temperatures and rich cultural heritage. Explore iconic sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia while enjoying pleasant weather that won’t freeze your bones.

Antalya on the Mediterranean coast is a perfect choice if you’re seeking a coastal retreat. Known for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, Antalya boasts some of the warmest temperatures in Turkey during wintertime.

Take leisurely walks along palm-lined boulevards or relax by turquoise waters while soaking up the sun’s rays.

Whether you prefer historical landmarks or beachside relaxation, Turkey’s warmest places have something for everyone seeking freedom from winter’s grasp. So pack your bags and head to these delightful destinations for a memorable winter escape.

Discover Istanbul: A Winter Wonderland Bridging Europe and Asia

Immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of Istanbul during the winter months, where Europe and Asia seamlessly blend to create a captivating winter wonderland.

Istanbul is one of the warmest places to visit in Turkey during winter. Despite being known for its hot summers, this vibrant city transforms into a cozy and inviting destination when temperatures drop.

Winter weather in Istanbul is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.

The city is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, making it a perfect place for shopping and exploring charming Christmas markets.

Stroll along the historic streets of Sultanahmet, visit iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, or indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine at local restaurants.

Istanbul becomes a breathtaking winter paradise that will leave you enchanted and craving more.

Coastal Delights: Bask in the Warmth of Antalya’s Mediterranean Charm

You can’t resist the allure of Antalya’s Mediterranean charm. You’ll find yourself basking in the warmth and beauty of its coastal delights.

Nestled on the stunning coast of Turkey, Antalya is a must-visit destination even during the winter months. Known for its mild climate, it offers some of the warmest winters in Turkey. While other parts may be covered in snow, southern Turkey remains pleasantly temperate.

This makes it perfect for indulging in outdoor activities like winter sports or a hot air balloon ride over the breathtaking landscape.

Antalya has everything whether you’re looking for a relaxing winter city break or an adventurous escape.

So why wait? Head to this coastal paradise and experience the magic of Turkey in January while enjoying its coastal delights.

Magical Cappadocia: Unveiling the Charms of Winter in the Land of Fairy Chimneys

Nestled in the heart of Turkey, Cappadocia unveils its winter charms as you step into a land adorned with enchanting fairy chimneys and a magical atmosphere.

Discover the mesmerizing landscapes: Cappadocia transforms into a winter wonderland as snow blankets the valleys and peaks.

The unique rock formations known as fairy chimneys become even more captivating when dusted with snow, creating a picturesque scene that feels like stepping into a fairytale.

Explore underground cities: Escape the chilly weather by delving deep into the underground cities of Cappadocia. These ancient marvels were carved out of soft volcanic rock centuries ago and provide shelter from both winter winds and summer heat.

Wander through labyrinthine tunnels and chambers, imagining what life was like for those who once called these subterranean dwellings home.

Take a hot air balloon ride: Experience the ultimate thrill by soaring above Cappadocia’s winter landscape in a hot air balloon. As you float gently through the sky, admire panoramic views of snowy valleys dotted with fairy chimneys.

The silence is broken only by occasional bursts of flame from your balloon’s burner, adding to the enchantment of this unforgettable experience.

Cappadocia in winter is a land of fairy chimneys waiting to be explored. Don’t miss your chance to visit one of Turkey’s warmest places during this magical season!

Charming Izmir: A Vibrant City Escape with Mild Winter Weather

Experience the mild winter weather and vibrant atmosphere of Izmir, where you can escape to a charming city filled with endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. You can enjoy pleasant temperatures in Izmir, making it one of Turkey’s warmest places to visit in winter.

This beautiful coastal city uniquely blends ancient history and modernity with its bustling markets, stunning architecture, and lively nightlife.

To give you an idea of what awaits you in Izmir, here are three must-visit places:

Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion or a relaxing getaway by the sea, Izmir offers something for everyone. Discover the charms of this vibrant city as you bask in its mild winter weather and embrace the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Winter Adventures in Bursa: Ski Resorts and Hot Springs Await

Located just a short drive from Istanbul, Bursa offers the perfect winter getaway with its picturesque ski resorts and rejuvenating hot springs. As I stepped into this winter wonderland, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of freedom wash over me.

The crisp mountain air filled my lungs as I embarked on thrilling adventures down the powdery slopes of Uludağ and Kartalkaya ski resorts. The breathtaking views from the top left me in awe, making every moment truly unforgettable.

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, I indulged in the soothing waters of Bursa’s natural hot springs. The warmth enveloped my body, melting away any tension and leaving me feeling completely refreshed.

Bursa is a hidden gem for those seeking winter adventures and a blissful escape in Turkey’s warmest places during the winter.

Coastal Gems: Exploring the Aegean and Black Sea Regions in Winter

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable winter journey as you explore the breathtaking coastal gems of the Aegean and Black Sea regions. These regions in Turkey offer a unique and captivating experience during the winter season.

The Aegean coast boasts stunning turquoise waters, picturesque towns, and ancient ruins. From Ephesus to Bodrum, there’s no shortage of beauty and history to explore.

On the other hand, the Black Sea region offers rugged cliffs, lush green landscapes, and charming fishing villages that are perfect for a cozy winter getaway. Imagine sipping hot tea while enjoying panoramic sea views or exploring hidden caves along the coastline.

Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, these coastal gems have it all. So pack your bags and embark on an incredible journey along Turkey’s Aegean and Black Sea regions this winter!

Cultural Heritage in Ephesus: Visit the Ancient City in Winter Tranquility

As we continue our exploration of the warmest places to visit in Turkey during the winter season, let’s dive into the rich cultural heritage of Ephesus. This ancient city, nestled in winter tranquility, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Imagine wandering through the remnants of a once-thriving civilization, walking along stone streets that have stood the test of time. With its well-preserved ruins and awe-inspiring architecture, Ephesus offers a glimpse into the past like no other place.

From the grand Library of Celsus to the magnificent Great Theatre, every corner reveals fascinating stories waiting to be discovered.

The winter season brings a unique charm to Ephesus as fewer tourists grace its paths. You can explore this archaeological gem at your own pace, immersing yourself in its splendor and feeling connected to its ancient inhabitants.

So come and uncover the secrets of this extraordinary place as you bask in its winter tranquility.

Captivating Winter Landscapes: Discover the Beauty of Central Turkey

Embrace the enchanting allure of Central Turkey’s captivating winter landscapes and let them transport you to a world where snow-kissed mountains and picturesque valleys create an unforgettable experience.

Here are four reasons why Central Turkey is a must-visit destination for your winter holidays:

• Snow-covered Fairy Chimneys: Witness the breathtaking beauty of Cappadocia’s unique rock formations, known as fairy chimneys, adorned with a glistening white blanket of snow.
• Skiing Paradise in Erciyes: Hit the slopes in Erciyes, one of Turkey’s premier ski resorts, offering thrilling runs for all skill levels against stunning mountain vistas.
• Winter Wonderland in Göreme National Park: Explore the wonderland that is Göreme National Park, where ancient cave dwellings and surreal rock formations are transformed into magical icy sculptures during winter.
• Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools: Indulge in ultimate relaxation at Pamukkale’s thermal pools, naturally heated by underground hot springs. Soak in these mineral-rich waters while taking in the panoramic views of snowy terraces.

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Central Turkey during the winter season for an extraordinary escape from everyday life.

Planning Your Trip: Tips and Insights for a Memorable Winter Visit

As I marveled at the captivating winter landscapes of Central Turkey, I couldn’t help but plan my next adventure in this enchanting country. With its rich history and diverse culture, Turkey has always been a favorite destination of mine. And what better time to visit than during the winter season?

While exploring the warmest places in Turkey may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a winter getaway, it’s certainly worth considering. From Antalya’s stunning beaches to Pamukkale’s thermal hot springs, countless options exist for those seeking a memorable winter visit.

So, as I dive into planning my trip, I can’t wait to share with you all the tips and insights I gather along the way. Let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through Turkey’s warmest winter wonders.

In conclusion, Turkey’s warmest winter wonderlands await! From the captivating cityscape of Istanbul to the coastal delights of Antalya, there are endless opportunities to bask in the beauty and warmth of this remarkable country.

Whether you explore the magical fairy chimneys of Cappadocia or immerse yourself in the vibrant charm of Izmir, Turkey offers a diverse range of destinations for a memorable winter escape.

So pack your bags and prepare for a truly enchanting adventure in Turkey’s hottest cities! Don’t miss out on this marvelous Mediterranean marvel!

FAQs | Warmest Places in Turkey

What is the best time to visit turkey in the winter.

Turkey is generally warmer during the winter months compared to other European countries. The best time to visit Turkey in the winter is from December to February when the weather is mild and fewer tourists.

What are the warmest places in Turkey to visit in the winter season?

Some of the warmest places in Turkey to visit in the winter season include Antalya, Izmir, and Istanbul. These cities are located along the coast and offer milder weather than inland areas.

What are the best places to visit in Turkey in the winter?

Turkey has numerous attractions to offer during the winter season. Some of the best places to visit include Cappadocia, Istanbul, Antalya, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Bodrum. Each of these destinations has its unique charm and attractions to explore.

What is the weather like in Turkey during the winter?

The weather in Turkey during the winter is generally mild in most parts of the country. The coastal regions experience milder temperatures compared to the inland areas. However, it can still get cold, especially in the eastern and central parts of Turkey.

Are there things to do in Turkey during the winter?

Yes, there are plenty of things to do in Turkey during the winter. You can visit historical sites, explore the vibrant cities, go skiing in the mountains, enjoy thermal baths, and indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine. There are also cultural events and festivals happening during the winter season.

Do tourist attractions close down during winter in Turkey?

While some lesser-known tourist attractions may have reduced operating hours or be closed during winter, most popular tourist attractions in Turkey remain open year-round. However, it is advisable to check the specific opening hours and schedules of the attractions you plan to visit.

Is Istanbul a good place to visit in the winter?

Yes, Istanbul is a great place to visit in the winter. While the temperatures may be cooler compared to the summer months, the city still offers a lot to see and do. You can explore the historic sites, visit museums, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, and indulge in delicious Turkish food.

What is the hottest place in Turkey during the winter?

Antalya is known to be one of the hottest places in Turkey during the winter season. It is located on the southern coast of Turkey and enjoys mild and pleasant weather even in winter.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit in Turkey during the winter?

Turkey has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that can be visited during winter. Some of these include the historic areas of Istanbul, Ephesus’s archaeological site, Cappadocia’s rock formations, and the ancient city of Troy.

Can I enjoy the winter sun in Turkey?

You can enjoy the winter sun in Turkey, especially in the southern coastal regions. Places like Antalya, Izmir, and Bodrum still have pleasant temperatures and sunshine during winter.

• https://www.the-sun.com/travel/7560438/where-hottest-place-turkey/
• https://travelsnippet.com/europe/turkey/warmest-places-in-turkey/
• https://www.roadiscalling.com/visiting-turkey-in-winter/
• https://drifttravel.com/5-destinations-to-visit-in-turkey-this-winter/

A passionate solo traveler, embarking on thrilling adventures to explore the world's historical ruins. Fascinated by the intricate tales woven into ancient stones, she delves deep into the history of each site, unearthing the emotional stories that resonate through time. With every journey, Hayden strives to connect with the human experience of the past and share its profound significance with fellow explorers. Join her on a captivating expedition to unlock the secrets of bygone eras.

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12 unmissable things to do in Turkey

Jan 3, 2022 • 8 min read

The landscape of Cappadocia and its horizon filled with hot air balloons is one of the most iconic sights in Turkey © Francesco Riccardo Iacomino / Getty Images

Whether your ideal vacation involves sunbathing on a Mediterranean beach , trekking in rugged mountains or learning more about the complex cultural layers laid down over thousands of years of history, Turkey has options to entice every kind of traveler. 

The country boasts an abundance of ancient sites and diverse natural landscapes, as well as lively cities, tantalizing food and opportunities for adventure. You'll never cover everything on just the one vacation but here’s our pick of the best things to do in Turkey to get you started.

Tour the ancient city of Ephesus

The well-preserved streets of Ephesus are lined with evidence of what daily life was like for the ancient Greeks and Romans who inhabited the city for hundreds of years: the remains of their shops and schools, temples and public toilets.

Highlights of the main site include the intricately carved facade of the Library of Celsus – once the third-largest library in the world – a huge open-air theater, a Roman bath and numerous monumental fountains and gates. Well worth the separate admission fee are the Terraced Houses . These luxurious residences belonged to the Roman elite and are full of mosaics, frescoes and marble worthy of an episode of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.”

Luxuriate in a Turkish bath

In the days when most homes lacked indoor plumbing, hamams (commonly referred to as Turkish baths in English) played a crucial role both as a place to get clean and to socialize. Today, they’re typically a special-occasion destination, more often frequented by tourists than locals, but still a luxury well worth indulging in.

The full treatment includes a scrub and massage by a same-gender attendant, but you can also opt to bathe yourself in their steamy chambers. With their marble-covered interiors and sky-lit domes, the grandest hamams – such as the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı , the Cağaloğlu Hamamı and the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Istanbul – are a treat for the eyes as well as the body. In the old Ottoman capital of Bursa, hamams like Eski Kaplıca and Yeni Kaplıca feature pools fed by the area’s natural thermal springs.

See Cappadocia from above and below

First thing in the morning, the skies above Cappadocia fill with hot-air balloons that take visitors floating above the area’s canyons, fairy chimneys and other fantastical rock formations. Even if you don’t fancy a flight, it’s worth getting up early to see the colorful aerial display from the ground. For a more, er, down-to-earth experience, follow labyrinthine tunnels many stories deep into underground cities such as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı , where thousands of people took shelter from invaders for months at a time. In addition to living quarters, these subterranean settlements included facilities to stable animals, cook, worship and even make wine.

Feast on meze and fish

The “rakı-balık” night is a quintessential Turkish dining experience, particularly in Istanbul and along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. What some call the national drink of Turkey, rakı is a strong anise-flavoured liqueur typically mixed with water and ice, and balık is fish. Such meals typically start with an assortment of meze, which are often the real stars of the show.

These small dishes meant for sharing feature both classic and creative combinations of vegetables, herbs and seafood, often topped with yogurt or cooked in olive oil. If you do manage to save room for the main course, popular fish choices depending on the season include grilled levrek (sea bass) and çipura (sea bream), or lightly fried istavrit (mackerel), barbun (red mullet) and hamsi (anchovies).

Shop in colorful bazaars

Despite the proliferation of shopping malls and grocery stores, traditional bazaar culture remains strong in Turkey. Most historic centers will have at least one çarşı , a shopping arcade or maze-like marketplace district with vendors selling everything from cheap souvenirs to handmade leather or metal crafts. Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar (known as the Kapalı Çarşı, or “covered marketplace” in Turkish) is the most famous example, but ones in cities like Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa are more atmospheric and authentic.

Equally colorful and important to local life is the pazar , an open-air market for fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables and other food products, as well as clothing and household goods. Depending on the town or city neighborhood, they might be set up in the street under rigged-up tarps, in an emptied parking lot or garage, or in a purpose-built structure. Held in different areas on set days of the week, they’re cheap and lively places to buy staples or just browse. Some large pazars , like the weekly market in the resort town of Fethiye, feature stalls selling gözleme (stuffed flatbreads) and other simple dishes to sate hungry shoppers.

Admire architectural splendor in Istanbul

The rulers of the city formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople left their marks in grand style. The Hagia Sophia ’s soaring dome still leaves visitors awestruck a millennium and a half after its construction, while the towering Aqueduct of Valens and the vast subterranean Basilica Cistern attest to the impressive engineering feats that the Romans employed to supply the city and its residents with drinking water. 

With a prime position overlooking the confluence of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn and Marmara Sea, Topkapi Palace evokes the might of the Ottoman Empire at its peak: lavishly decorated chambers, a treasury dripping with massive jewels and a kitchen that could feed 4000 people. Istanbul’s minaret-studded skyline is a heritage of the Ottomans as well. The famous Blue Mosque gets the most attention, but visitors shouldn’t miss the tiny, tile-bedecked Rüstem Paşa Mosque and the graceful Süleymaniye Mosque , perched atop one of the old city’s seven hills. History buffs can really dig into the different cultural eras in Istanbul by exploring its wealth of museums detailing the fascinating legacy of the city .

Cruise turquoise waters on a gület

Few vacations are more relaxing than a multi-day cruise aboard a gület (traditional wooden yacht) plying sections of Turkey’s southwestern coastline between Bodrum and Antalya . While away the long, sunny days swimming in secluded coves, reading or playing tavla (backgammon) on deck, eating fresh-caught fish, drinking rakı as the sun sets and sleeping out under the stars. If you get tired of blissfully lazing around, you can hop ashore along the way to explore the ancient ruins of Knidos , climb to the top of the Crusader Castle in Kaleköy or stop for lunch at one of the cool cafe-restaurants in Kaş . 

Hike the Lycian Way

For a more active way to explore the Turquoise Coast, consider taking on part of the Lycian Way , a long-distance trekking path stretching 540 km (335 mi) from Fethiye to Antalya. Best traversed in spring or fall, the sometimes challenging trail winds along spectacular coastal cliffs, through bucolic villages and beach towns, past ancient ruins and up into the mountains.

Most sections have accommodation options in small pensions as well as camping. Highlights along the way include the secluded valley of Kabak , the long sandy beach of Patara , the massive rock tombs of Myra , the ruins of Olympos and the “ burning rock ” at Çıralı. If you want to see more of Turkey's incredible landscape on foot and escape the crowded tourist spots, extend your trip and spend some time exploring the country's stunning array of national parks .

See incredible Roman mosaics

Tiny colored cubes of glass, ceramic or stone were used during the Roman era to make amazingly detailed tableaux depicting mythological tales, heroic battles, lavish banquets and other scenes. Splendidly preserved examples of these mosaics, which often decorated the floors of grand palaces and villas, can today be found in numerous museums in Turkey, most notably the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum , the Hatay Archaeology Museum and the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum in Şanlıurfa.

Linger over a leisurely Turkish breakfast

It’s hard to think of a better way to fuel up for a big day of sightseeing than with a Turkish breakfast spread ( serpme kahvaltı ). Start with the savory nibbles: olives, cheeses, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, perhaps some spicy pepper paste along with your eggs. Then satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade jams and a decadent swirl of honey and thick cream ( kaymak ). Different parts of the country have their own special additions: fresh herbs along the Aegean coast, cornmeal cooked with melted butter and cheese (called mıhlama or kuymak ) in the Black Sea region, and fermented cheese and hot peppers in Hatay. Endless small glasses of black tea are universal.

Watch the sunrise from atop Mt. Nemrut

The surreal sight at the summit of Nemrut Dağı is testament to both the extent of the power that can be wielded by a ruler and to its inevitable decline. In the 1st century BCE, a Hellenistic king had massive statues of deities, mythic beasts and other figures built on top of a rocky peak as a monument to his own greatness. Earthquakes over the centuries toppled the heads of these statues from their bodies and they now sit scattered around a stark, remote landscape. Tour groups typically bring visitors up here at sunrise or sunset, but if you stay overnight at one of the simple lodgings a little below the summit, you can experience both.

Imagine the beginnings of human civilization

Turkey is home to some of the world’s most important Neolithic sites , which are still yielding new insights – and questions – about how humans lived more than 10,000 years ago. In the center of the country near Konya, the excavations of Çatalhöyük have provided clues about early “urban” life, the period when people started to transition from nomadic ways to settled agrarian livelihoods. In the southeast outside of Şanlıurfa, the findings at the ritual complex of Göbeklitepe – thought to be the world’s first place of worship – have transformed our understanding of when humans began to develop religious beliefs and practices.

You might also like: Do you need a visa to go to Turkey? The 10 most incredible places to visit in Turkey How to drink Turkish coffee like a local

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2022

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Turkey in January 2025 – Your Complete Guide to a Hassle Free Trip!

Turkey is a country that offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes and experiences, and it’s no different in the winter months. Many travelers mistakenly believe that Turkey is only a summer destination, but it is in fact a winter wonderland for adventurers. From snow-capped mountains to charming winter villages, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this magical country during January. Read further to learn more about Turkey in January if you are planning a Turkey vacation package .

Weather in Turkey in January

When planning a trip to Turkey in January, it’s crucial to be aware of the weather conditions to make the most of your winter wonderland adventure. January is generally considered the coldest month in Turkey, with temperatures varying across the country.

In Istanbul and the western coastal areas, you can expect average temperatures to range from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius (41 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). In central and eastern Anatolia, including popular destinations like Cappadocia and Mount Ararat, temperatures drop significantly. Daytime temperatures can range from -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit), with freezing temperatures during the night. This region experiences heavy snowfall, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.

The southern coastal regions, such as Antalya and Fethiye, offer milder winters compared to the rest of the country. Here, average temperatures hover around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional rainfall. To fully enjoy your adventures in Turkey during January, make sure to pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, waterproof jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots. Stay tuned for the next section as we reveal the top winter activities you can indulge in while exploring this captivating country.

Top Activities in Turkey in January

1. skiing and snowboarding.

 Turkey boasts several world-class ski resorts, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Popular destinations like Uluda, Palandöken, and Erciyes offer pristine slopes and modern facilities for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, You’ll find a range of slopes suited to your skill level.

2. Hot Air Balloon Rides in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a mesmerizing region known for its unique landscape of fairy chimneys and cave dwellings. In January, you can embark on an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride over this magical terrain. Taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape from above is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Thermal Baths

Turkey is home to numerous thermal baths where you can relax and rejuvenate amidst the chilly winter weather. Pamukkale, with its terraces of mineral-rich thermal waters, is one of the most famous thermal spa destinations in the country. Soak in the warm waters and let your stresses melt away.

4. Explore Historic Sites

Turkey is rich in history, and January provides a unique opportunity to explore popular tourist sites without the usual crowds. Visit ancient ruins like Ephesus and Hierapolis and immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of civilizations past.

5. Culinary Delights

Turkish cuisine is famous for its flavors and variety. Indulge in hearty stews, kebabs, and traditional desserts to warm your soul during the cold winter days. Don’t forget to sip on some traditional Turkish tea or try the warmth of hot salep, a traditional winter beverage.

With so much to see and do in Turkey during January, you’re sure to have an unforgettable

adventure. Just remember to dress in layers, pack your winter gear, and embrace the beauty and excitement of this captivating country. Stay tuned for the next section, where we explore the must-see destinations in Turkey during this enchanting winter season

Uncover the charm of winter festivals and cultural experiences

In addition to thrilling outdoor activities, Turkey offers a myriad of winter festivals and cultural

experiences that will immerse you in the country’s rich traditions and customs. January is a perfect time to witness these unique events and fully embrace Turkish culture.

• One of the most anticipated festivals is the Kars Snow Festival , held annually in the northeastern city of Kars. This vibrant celebration takes place against the backdrop of stunning snow-covered landscapes and features snow sculptures, traditional music, and dance performances. For those intrigued by folklore and local customs, the Kars Snow Festival is a must-see event.
• Another cultural experience not to be missed is the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony . This mesmerizing spiritual ritual, practiced by the mystical Sufi sect, takes place in several cities across Turkey, including Istanbul and Konya. As you watch the serene whirling dance, you will be transported to a world of tranquility and spiritual enlightenment.

Apart from these festivals and ceremonies, January in Turkey also offers opportunities to attend

traditional music concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Turkish arts and culture and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich heritage.

Turkey in January is winter magic. Book your Turkey Vacation Package with Pickyourtrail and have a hassle-free vacation.

Experience Turkey Every Month Of The Year

Turkey in February | Turkey in March | Turkey in April | Turkey in May | Turkey in June | Turkey in July | Turkey in August | Turkey in September | Turkey in October | Turkey in November | Turkey in December

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey In January

During January, the winter is at its maximum in Istanbul. So, assure that you have sufficient thick garments with you. Sweaters, jackets, coats, caps, and snow boots are several important garments to pack during your visit. 

From lovely luxurious resorts and villas in Istanbul and different parts of Turkey, there are interesting cave resorts in areas like Cappadocia. Turkey has numerous extraordinary locations to stay in. It all relies upon the type of place you’re looking ahead to. 

The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira.

Feeling overwhelmed by the options for exploring Turkey? There is more to it, which you can only see if you go there by yourself on your Istanbul tour package . Turkey is a package destination where you can indulge in top activities while pampering yourself in world-class hotels. So, pack your bags and lace up your boots for a vacation with Turkey packages or Turkey honeymoon packages booked with Pickyourtrail.

Priyadharshini S

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Turkey in January 2024 – Weather, Places to visit, Festivals and More

January vacations in Turkey are ideal for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts! The best time to explore the historical sites that are still home to many secrets is now. Next, stop by a store selling Turkish delicacies and oriental sweets or just visit a vibrant bazaar. But there are other things you can do as well. Many tourist spots in Turkey exist to be explored during the cold January.

Turkey Weather in January

Turkey experiences cold weather in January. It is advisable to pack layers of clothing for your January trip to Turkey, as the average daily high temperature in Turkey in January is only 3°C, and the average nighttime low is a freezing -5°C. But just because the Turkey weather in January can get cold outside does not mean you will not have a good time. This month, many Turkish ski resorts are covered in a fresh layer of powdery snow.

Things to Do in Turkey in January

Turkey is blessed with enormous ski resorts and January is the most opportune time for hitting the slopes. The various ski resorts comprise Uludag, Palandoken, and Kartalkaya. On the contrary, Cappadocia’s landscape appears gorgeous during winter months more so when observed from top on hot air balloon flights. This experience undeniably is one of a kind. Also to rejuvenate and warm up, try the much famed Turkish bath. Historic hamams in Istanbul promise a lavish retreat from chills of winter. Do not forget winter hiking at the Lycian Way or the gorgeous Kackar Mountains. Besides, other things to partake in comprise enrolling for a cooking class, going on a soothing Bosphorus cruise, engaging in photography tours, bird watching, ice skating, caving and more.

Why Turkey in January?

• Better prices: During the off-season, cities and seaside towns offer lower lodging costs. The snowy, chilly climate makes for ideal snow sports conditions, and Turkey’s ski resorts are more cost-effective than those in other European nations.
• Less crowds: January is the ideal month to visit Turkey if you want to take in the country’s top tourist destinations without being bothered by large groups of people. Discover its monuments & museums, and take in the serene sights that this nation has to offer.
• Ski season: January marks the height of Turkey’s ski season, presumably the primary cause of traveler traffic to the nation during this time. There are slopes and routes to suit every skill level, so do not falter to try them. Erzurum, Kartepe, and Bursa are a few of Turkey’s eminent ski resorts.
• Thermal spas: Winter is the best season to visit Turkey’s well-known thermal spas and hammams (steam baths), even though they are open all year round. To de-stress and soothe that dry winter skin, take a dip in the warm, inviting water. For the most opulent spas, visit Kemer, Side, or Belek. Feel free to treat yourself.

Places to See in Turkey in January

• Istanbul- Istanbul is a year-round city that is lively and vibrant despite the cold weather. Witness eminent sites like the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Hagia Sophia. Appreciate the vibes of wintry weather along the Bosphorus while learning about the city’s history.
• Cappadocia- A unique opportunity to visit Cappadocia is in January, when the snow-covered landscapes transform the area into a mystical winter wonderland. Take a hot air balloon ride  for the snowy landscapes and incredible vistas. You can also appreciate the cavern homes and underground cities.
• Pamukkale- Recognized for its white thermal waters rich in minerals, Pamukkale is a captivating natural marvel. The colder winter months can make the hot springs particularly alluring.
• Ephesus- Discover the well-preserved buildings at Ephesus , a wonderful archaeological site that includes the Great Theater and the Library of Celsus. In comparison to the sparkling tourist season, the winter months open doors for a more serene experience.
• Antalya- Antalya may have mild wintertime temperatures, even though coastal areas typically have milder weather. Discover the city’s historical landmarks, including Hadrian’s Gate and Old Town (Kaleiçi). Wander along the picturesque cliffs or pay a visit to Aspendos and Perge, two nearby archaeological sites.

Apart from these, the list of places to see in Turkey in January also comprises Mount Erciyes, Safranbolu, and Trabzon.

January Popular Activities

January is perfect for taking time off to admire the magnificent scenery of the snow-covered hills and crisp mountain air. During January, popular pursuits include:

• Snowboarding is popular in the snow-capped mountains of Cappadocia, Kayseri, Bursa, and Antalya.
• See the breathtaking snow-covered cliffs in Cappadocia, go on hot air balloon rides, stay in real cave hotels, and explore the underground cities of this fascinating area.
• Appreciate Turkey’s wintry landscape, particularly the breathtaking views of Trabzon, Rize, and Kars.
• See the breathtaking winter landscape of Turkey while traveling on the Touristic Eastern Express.
• Visit historical locations like Bergama/Pergamum, the Blue Mosque, Ephesus (Efes), Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofia).

What to Pack?

• Clothing- thermal undergarments, waterproof jacket, sweaters, hats, gloves, socks, scarves, sturdy walking shoes, waterproof boots, some casual and formal wear as per the need.
•   Electronics- adapters, phone chargers, camera, portable charger
•   Toiletries- items of personal hygiene, skin and hair care products, basic first-aid supplies, prescription medicines
• Travel documents- travel insurance, passport, and visa (should the need be)
• Cash and cards
•  Reusable water bottle

What to Wear?

Layer up! Bring a selection of warm clothes because of the mixed climate, especially in areas like Cappadocia, where the temperatures could drop noticeably. When discovering the outdoor wonders, putting on sturdy walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and robust gloves will keep you at ease.

Where to Stay?

Turkey paves the way for assorted accommodation choices to sate variegated budgets and tastes,

• Luxury Hotels- The Marmara Antalya, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul
• Boutique Hotels- Ada Hotel Istanbul, Serinn House
• Budget Hotels & Hostels- Cheers Hostel, Anadolu Hotel
• Resorts- Hillside Beach Club, Voyage Bodrum

What to Eat?

• Lentil Soup
• Grilled Fish
• White Bean Stew
• Turkish Tea/coffee

January Events and Festivals

• Orthodox Christmas (January 6-7)- Most of Turkey’s orthodox churches observe the Julian calendar, which declares January 6 to be Christmas Eve and January 7 to be Christmas Day. Now is a good time to visit Greek and Armenian Orthodox churches and communities.
• Camel Wrestling Festival- (3 months from early January to the end of March)- Camel wrestling is held in Selcuk, close to the ancient site of Ephesus. The ultimate honor of the winning camel—or, more accurately, the final honor of its owners—is up for grabs!
• Kars Snow Festival- The annual Kars Snow Festival, which takes place in the northeastern city of Kars, is one of the most looked-forward-to events. The key attractions comprise traditional music, snow sculpture, and dance set in snow-covered scenery.
• Whirling Dervishes Ceremony- The Ceremony of the Whirling Dervishes is another cultural event that should not be missed. The Sufi sect executes this enchanting spiritual custom in varied Turkish cities, including Konya and Istanbul. You will be taken to a realm of peace and spiritual enlightenment as you observe the serene whirling dance.

January in Turkey is an opportune time to see traditional music concerts, plays, and art exhibits, in addition to these celebrations and festivals.

Winter Culinary Delights

Turkish food is renowned for its diversity and flavors. Savor robust stews, shish kebabs, and traditional sweets to soothe your spirit on chilly winter days. You can also enjoy a hot salep, a famous traditional winter beverage, or traditional Turkish tea.

Few visitors get the chance to enjoy the enthralling fusion of history, culture, and scenic beauty that January in Turkey offers. Turkey is a place that will leave you with prized memories because of its wide-ranging landscapes, enthralling winter charm, and profusion of activities. The weather in Turkey in January is truly an experience that is unlike any other; no matter you ride a hot air balloon over Cappadocia’s bizarre landscapes or explore Istanbul’s busy streets. Accept the enchanted and singular experience of Turkey winter and allow the welcoming Turkish people and awe-inspiring scenery to craft lifelong memories.

Q1. How is Turkey weather in January?

In Turkey, January is pretty cold with mountainous & inland areas having temperatures dipping below freezing. Coastal areas of course are milder.

Q2. What to pack for January trip to Turkey?

• Warm clothes like sweaters, scarves, gloves
• Sturdy shoes
• Medications
• Travel documents

Q3. Name some leading Turkey January events.

• Camel Wrestling Festival
• Kars Snow Festival
• Whirling Dervishes Ceremony

Q4. Name some Turkey January Delights.

• Shish kebabs
• Turkish coffee

Q5. Are tourist attractions in Turkey open in January?

Yes, the majority remain open especially in Izmir, Ankara as well as Istanbul but a few may have closures/reduced hours on specific days.

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• Istanbul In January 2024: Your Personal Guide To Know Everything About This Charming Land

Located at the border of two continents, Istanbul, historically known as Constantinople and Byzantium, is the cultural and economic hub of Turkey. It is also a place of great historical significance. Istanbul is a transcontinental city. Two-thirds of it lie in Europe, while the remaining lies in Asia. It is often seen as the bridge between the east and west. Istanbul is filled with sights of exceptional beauty. The place is filled with parks, mosques, gardens, palaces, museums, and more. Istanbul in January 2024 can be fairly cold. Istanbul temperature in January hovers around 7 to 9 degrees Celsius. It also snows occasionally. So, it will be a good idea to pack ample warm clothing.

Weather In Istanbul In January

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The number of things to do in Istanbul in January is aplenty. The weather in Istanbul in January 2023 may be cold, but it does not affect the liveliness of the city. You can go on the classic Bosphorus Cruise that begins from the east of the Galata Bridge and continues right up to Anadolu Kavagi, which is where the natural strait ends in the Black Sea. In recent years, nightlife in Istanbul has also come alive. A vibrant nightlife is spread all throughout the city. There are multiple entertainment venues. The most vibrant nightlife is on the European side, between the Istiklal street and the Tünel. It caters mostly to the students in the region. Summer months provide the most active nightlife, although, on visiting Istanbul in January [and wondering] what to do, you will not be disappointed. For more traditional Turkish form of entertainment, you can visit the Aksaray region. It has multiple small bars, pubs, cafes, and restaurants . On the Asian side, Kadikoy is another place where you can enjoy such a fun nightlife.

Istanbul In January 2024: 10 Places To Visit

So, while you’re planning a trip to this gorgeous city, here are the top 10 places to visit in Istanbul for your January vacation vibes with the loved ones! Scroll down to know what all awaits you here!

• Basilica Cistern: An Enthralling Place
• Aya Sofya: An Ancient Mosque
• Topkapi Palace: Offering Top Royal Vibes
• Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam: An Elegant Turkish Bath
• The Blue Mosque: A Famous Monument
• Istanbul Archaeology Museums: For The Historians
• The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum: Explore The Rich Heritage
• Süleymaniye Mosque: An Ottoman Era Monument
• Chora Church: The Byzantine Influence
• Galata Tower: For An Awesome City View

1. Basilica Cistern: An Enthralling Place

One of the most unexpectedly romantic places in the city is a cistern that once used to bring water to the city from the European mainland. The Basilica Cistern is a complicated water distribution system that was constructed back in the sixth century. It brought water from the south-east of the Balkans, where the mainland Turkey and a large part of Bulgaria now lies. The cistern was long forgotten but is now renovated as a tourist spot. It is now lit up with lights and soft classical music plays.

Fish swim around the 336 columns that support the ceiling. When you are visiting, try finding that one column that has the upside-down head of Medusa at its base. This shows how the Byzantine builders reused Roman relics during construction. January and February are ideal months for this place as the crowd is very thin.

Entrance Fee: £3.50 Opening Hours: During January, the entry times are from 9AM to 5PM. During the summer months, you can spend more time there in the evenings

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2. Aya Sofya: An Ancient Mosque

The sixth-century mosque that was cluttered with scaffoldings has now opened up. This is a Justinian construction that was initially a church. It was then turned into a mosque and today, it is a museum. The building is empty, however, the floors, walls, and ceilings have wonderful artwork that will mesmerize anyone. You can spend hours looking at the beautiful architecture. You can also see the tombs of the Ottoman Sultans as well as that of their murdered sons who were killed because of the potential rivalry between them.

Moreover, you can also see the best carpets in the city that go on display during this time. The carpets are displayed in the soup kitchen that was added when the church was turned into a mosque. Even though Aya Sofya is open all throughout the year, mid-November to mid-March will be the best time to explore the intricacies of the architecture in peace

Entrance Fee: £7 Opening Hours: during January, it is open from 9AM to 5PM.

Must Read: 13 Best Places Near Istanbul To Explore The City Beyond Its Borders

3. Topkapi Palace: Offering Top Royal Vibes

The Topkapi Palace is a must-see palace in Istanbul. There are many palaces in Istanbul, but in case you decide to skip some during your short trip, make sure that you do not skip the Topkapi Palace. It has been home to the sultans over generations. You can see lush greenery that fills the courtyards. There are intricately designed kiosks. The views of the Sea of Marmara from the palace is something to die for. It also offers beautiful views of Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. You might also enjoy exploring the famous yet secretive harem, which is simply family quarters that is filled with intricately tiled rooms and has a Turkish bath wrapped with gems. It is best to visit the place when there are no cruise ships in town since the place remains crowded on such days. January and February are the perfect months to explore this place.

Entrance Fee: £7 Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM from Tuesdays to Sundays. The harem is open only until 5 PM

Suggested Read: 5 Day Trips From Turkey For An Enriching And Exciting Vacation

4. Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam: An Elegant Turkish Bath

Istanbul offers you a chance to try out the baths that were once used by the Sultans. There are a lot of steamy bathhouses that you can visit in Istanbul. There is the Sülemaniye, Cağaloğlu, Çemberlitaş, and Galatasaray. However, since 2011, the AyasofyaHürrem Sultan Hamam opened up to the public for the first time. Built for the Suleiman the Magnificent's wife, Roxelana, the baths are filled with sounds of flowing water echoing across the halls, the place is wrapped with marbles and the ceilings have high domes. You can also enjoy a massage that was earlier given to a Sultan. This is truly once in a lifetime experience and will leave you craving for more. As the crowd reduces from late October to early April, January is a great time to enjoy the baths at a reduced price. There are separate sections for men and women.

Price: Starting from €70 Opening Hours: all days from 7AM to 11PM.

Suggested Read: Villas In Istanbul: 10 Examples Of True Luxury Across The Bosphorus Strait

5. The Blue Mosque: A Famous Monument

One of the most famous places in Istanbul is the Blue Mosque . It is located close to Aya Sofya and is also called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. The 17th-century mosque is one of the few mosques that has six minarets. The mosque is not noticeably blue, but the walls are covered with the İznik tiles. Each of them is hand painted and there are over twenty thousand of these across the entire interior of the mosque. They have different tulip designs. You can see why the mosque is so called when you get to the upper levels. The major part of the upper levels is painted blue. Moreover, there are over 200 stained glass windows with detailed designs that let in natural light.

Opening Hours: It is open to all visitors outside the prayer times. January is a great time to see the Blue Mosque since there are very few tourists.

Suggested Read: Snorkeling In Turkey : 9 Places Where You Can Have This Thrilling Experience

6. Istanbul Archaeology Museums: For The Historians

Istanbul is truly famous for its museums . If the Istanbul weather in January is a tad too cold for you, you can simply visit the museums and experience the beauty of Istanbul through them. You can roam around the warm interiors and learn a lot about the history of the place and about how the place shaped up to be the modern day Istanbul, Turkey. One of the most significant collections in the museum is the sarcophagus of Alexander. This glorious piece of history has scenes from the life of Alexander the Great carved in stone. There is also a kids section in the museum. So, if you are traveling with your children, make sure that you check out the Trojan horse specially designed for the kids. The Tiled Pavilion shows the oldest Ottoman structures in the city and the ceramics that are present there are truly amazing. You can also see the peace treaty from 1296 BC that is preserved at the museum gate. The ideal time is during the spring or the fall.

Entrance Fee: £3.50 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday. During the month of January, it is open from 9 AM to 4 PM.

Suggested Read: 10 Cruises From Istanbul That Will Add A Dash Of Luxury To Your Turkish Getaway

7. The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum: Explore The Rich Heritage

The palace of Ibrahim Pasha is now converted to a museum that shows a different side of Turkish history. You can see a huge collection of carpets from all across the country. The basement has reconstructed nomad tents and even the interiors of a Bursa mansion that existed in the 19th century. Spring is the best place to visit this museum since by end of May, it can get quite crowded

Entrance Fee: £3.50 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Water Parks In Turkey That Will Make Your Trip More Fun

8. Süleymaniye Mosque: An Ottoman Era Monument

Süleymaniye Mosque has been recently restored and it is one of the 42 mosques that was designed by the Ottoman architect Sinan during the time of Suleiman the Magnificent. The interior is now repurposed for many social services. There is a hospital, multiple madrasahs, a library, and also a hamam, which is Turkish for a bath. The place also serves a Turkish recipe of baked beans to the locals.

Opening Hours: It is open to visitors outside the prayer times. September is a good time to visit this place.

Suggested Read: 9 Istanbul Restaurants For That Perfect Turkish Culinary Affair

9. Chora Church: The Byzantine Influence

The Chora Church is the perfect example of Byzantine architecture. The mosaics and the frescoes that adorn the ceiling will take your breath away. It too is a church-turned mosque-turned museum. The ideal time to visit the Chora Church is in March, but it is also a peak season for tourists. So, are you ready to soak in the blessed vibes of this place?

Entrance Fee: £4.50 Opening Hours: Thursday to Tuesday from 9 AM to 4.30 PM in January

Suggested Read: 12 Best Spots For Scuba Diving In Turkey For An Adventurous Experience

10. Galata Tower: For An Awesome City View

To get a bird’s eye view of Istanbul, go visit the Galata Tower. It was used as a watchtower when it was constructed back in 500 AD. However, today it is a popular tourist destination. While you’re out and about in this scenic land, make sure you don’t miss out this one and witness the splendid breathtaking views of the sunset from here!

Entrance Fee: £3.50 Opening Hours: You can visit Galata Tower at any time of the year and it is open from 9AM to 8PM

Suggested Read: 6 Theme Parks In Istanbul For Letting Out The Kid In You!

Where To Stay In Istanbul in January

As Istanbul offers a large number of options, it can be difficult to decide where you want to stay. There are five distinct neighborhoods. The Beyoglu is the modern part of Istanbul whereas the Sultanahmet is the classic old part of Istanbul. The Bosphorus area provides beautiful views of the sea .

• Beyoglu: The Centre Of The City
• Sultanahmet or The Old City: The Famous Land
• Bosphorus: For An Awesome Time
• Karaköy: The Most Captivating Neighbourhood
• Galata: A History Rich City

1. Beyoglu: The Centre Of The City

Beyoglu is the heart of modern Istanbul. It is also close to the old city and Bosphorus. You can easily visit the Galata Tower , Istiklal street or the Taksim square . There are art galleries, bars, and cafes all around the area. However, some people may find it a little overcrowded during peak seasons.

Suggested Read: Top 5 Mesmerizing Temples In Turkey Which Are Absolutely Worth Visiting On Your Next Trip!

2. Sultanahmet or The Old City: The Famous Land

This region has numerous hotels and is perfect for those who seek a quiet vacation. The famous Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, and even the Topkapi Palace are close by. You can even walk to them from the Sultanahmet. Even though the place has numerous hotels, it is not really a lively place. Do not expect any entertainment after 11 PM. The streets become silent and empty at nights.

Suggested Read: 82 Best Places To Visit In Turkey That Must Be On Your Itinerary

3. Bosphorus: For An Awesome Time

This region is famous for its views of the sea. The hotels in the region tend to be more expensive. The quality of life in this region is much higher and there are numerous restaurants and nightclubs in the region. The drawback is the distance to the popular tourist destinations. Often it may take longer to reach places near Sultanahmet.

Suggested Read: 9 Water Sports In Turkey: That Remain Imprinted In Your Mind For A Long Time

4. Karaköy: The Most Captivating Neighbourhood

The fascinating neighborhood is located by the waterside and is a former port of the city. Explore the maze-like streets that offer a glimpse of the city’s culture and historic heritage. Find churches, synagogues and religious sites that seamlessly blend into the modern-day Karaköy.

Suggested Read: 12 Adventure Sports In Turkey That You Must Try On Your Next Visit

5. Galata: A History Rich City

Galata is part of the larger Beyoğlu district and more clearly identified by the historic Galata Tower overlooking the neighborhood’s old cobblestone streets and neoclassical buildings. The main street is full of interesting cafés and shops where you can explore the awesome local stuff. Do explore several points of cultural interest like the Mevlevi Museum and the Museum of Turkish Jews.

Further Read: Istanbul Travel Tips For A Hassle Free Trip To This Beautiful Old City Of Minarets

So, did this make you feel like exploring the mesmerizing views of Istanbul in January? What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Istanbul trip to Turkey for a soothing holiday with your loved ones in the cozy feels of the January month and don’t forget to pack a little extra in case you change your mind!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul In January

Does it snow in Istanbul in January?

If it does snow, it snows heavily. There is an average of four snow days in Istanbul every January. If you want those pretty snow pictures, you might be sad to know that on any typical January day it’s not likely to snow.

What is there to do in Istanbul in January?

Istanbul is a historic city and was the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Apart from historical buildings, you can visit Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace Museum. Also, catch the winter discounts at shopping malls, discover the nightlife, visit the Basilica Cistern and take full advantage of the atmosphere at Istiklal Street.

Is Turkey cold in January?

January in Turkey is typically cold and dark, although it won’t be as brutally cold as what you might expect to find in the dead of winter in many other places.

How many days are enough in Istanbul?

The minimum days to explore Istanbul would be around 3 days as this is the number one place in Turkey.

How much is a meal in Istanbul?

An average meal at a modest cafe will cost about INR 200-300 with the drinks.

What is the best area in Istanbul to stay?

The best area to stay in Turkey is the European side of Sultanahmet, which also serves as a top notch tourism destination in Istanbul as it holds the Topkapı Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, and famous Basilica Cistern. You can stay here, but it’s a little more expensive in this area for shopping and food.

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