Istanbul Weather
Istanbul
Weather in Istanbul in January and February
The weather in Istanbul bears no resemblance to that on the south coast. Even though the latitude is still well south of Northern Europe there are genuine winters that are wet, cold and often freezing with plenty of snow. The sea is cold and no one will think about going to the beach unless they are well wrapped up.
The daily average is only likely to be 5/6C with highs struggling to double figures and lows just above freezing. The daily sunshine average is only 3 or 4 hours during these months with rain and snow fairly regular.
Weather in Istanbul in March, April and May
Winter is slow to leave but by the end of this period the weather should be fairly good. In March it is still likely to rain on half the days of the month but by May that should be fewer than 10. Average high temperatures in May move up to around 20C but lows could still be little above 10C. Springtime is pleasant for those wanting to walk around to see the top attractions followed by the famous nightlife.
Weather in Istanbul in June, July and August
Summers will be warm sometimes hot and this is the time for locals and visitors to hit the beach and often hang around to see the sunset. The sea temperature gets up to 20C and rainfall is infrequent. The average high is over 25C though the temperature can get beyond 30C. Evenings are pleasant and there is no problem sitting outside at night.
Weather in Istanbul in September and October
Temperatures fall in September and highs in October are expected to be in the lower 20s with the average in the high teens. Rainfall begins to build again when in October it may be on half the days of the month. Visitors can expect 5 hours of sunshine on average.
Weather in Istanbul in November and December
Winter returns and with it the end of outdoor activities. Average high temperatures are just about in double figures but it will be cold at night with every chance of ice and snow.