April to May and September to November. Summer is hot and humid; winters are damp and cool but quiet.
The best months
The most comfortable weather with manageable crowds: April, October.
Peak season
May, June, July, August, September are the busiest months. Book popular tours and hotels earlier, and expect higher prices.
Month by month
- January: cold, quiet season.
- February: cool, quiet season.
- March: cool, busy season.
- April: mild, busy season.
- May: mild, peak season.
- June: warm, peak season.
- July: hot, peak season.
- August: hot, peak season.
- September: warm, peak season.
- October: mild, busy season.
- November: cool, busy season.
- December: cold, quiet season.
How long to stay
Three to four days.
Prices, ticket rules and safety conditions change. Treat this as a starting point and check official sources and your government's travel advice before you go.
Istanbul best time to visit questions
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
April to May and September to November. Summer is hot and humid; winters are damp and cool but quiet.
How many days do I need in Istanbul?
Three to four days.