🇬🇷 Athens vs Istanbul 🇹🇷

Athens, Greece vs Istanbul, Turkey — a side-by-side climate comparison to help you pick. Athens is the warmer of the two — about 3 degrees warmer on average across the year. Athens is drier, with roughly 40 fewer rainy days a year.

Climate at a glance

🇬🇷 Athens🇹🇷 Istanbul
Avg annual high22°C19°C
Hottest monthJuly (33°C)July (29°C)
Coldest monthJanuary (7°C low)January (3°C low)
Rainy days / year5696
SnowRareRare
Best months to visitApril, May, OctoberMay, September, October

🇬🇷 Athens

Best around April, May, October. Hottest in July (33°C), coldest lows in January (7°C).

🇹🇷 Istanbul

Best around May, September, October. Hottest in July (29°C), coldest lows in January (3°C).

Frequently asked questions

Is Athens or Istanbul warmer?

Athens is warmer overall, averaging about 3 degrees higher across the year.

Which is rainier, Athens or Istanbul?

Istanbul is rainier — Athens sees about 40 fewer rainy days per year.

When is the best time to visit Athens vs Istanbul?

Athens is best around April, May, October; Istanbul is best around May, September, October.

Not sure? Find your ideal destination by climate →