Weather in Istanbul
What's the weather like in Istanbul?
Istanbul has a wide swing between hot summers and cold winters and moderate rainfall spread across the year. Average daytime highs range from 9°C (48°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in July, with overnight lows around 3°C (37°F) and 20°C (68°F) respectively.
For comfortable sightseeing temperatures (18–26°C daytime highs), the best months to visit Istanbul are May through June, and September through October.
Quick facts
- Country
- 🇹🇷 Turkey
- Region
- Europe
- Time zone
- Europe/Istanbul
- Coordinates
- 41.008, 28.978
Monthly climate
Long-run averages for each month of the year.
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Rainfall | Rain days | Snow days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9°C / 48°F | 3°C / 37°F | 110 mm | 13 | — |
| February | 10°C / 50°F | 3°C / 37°F | 85 mm | 11 | — |
| March | 12°C / 54°F | 4°C / 39°F | 70 mm | 9 | — |
| April | 17°C / 63°F | 8°C / 46°F | 45 mm | 8 | — |
| May | 22°C / 72°F | 12°C / 54°F | 35 mm | 6 | — |
| June | 27°C / 81°F | 17°C / 63°F | 35 mm | 4 | — |
| July | 29°C / 84°F | 20°C / 68°F | 30 mm | 3 | — |
| August | 29°C / 84°F | 20°C / 68°F | 40 mm | 4 | — |
| September | 25°C / 77°F | 17°C / 63°F | 55 mm | 5 | — |
| October | 20°C / 68°F | 13°C / 55°F | 85 mm | 9 | — |
| November | 15°C / 59°F | 9°C / 48°F | 105 mm | 11 | — |
| December | 11°C / 52°F | 5°C / 41°F | 130 mm | 13 | — |
Istanbul by month
Detailed weather for any specific month:
Cities with a similar climate to Istanbul
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
The most comfortable months in Istanbul are usually May, September, October, when average highs sit near 18–26°C (64–79°F) with relatively little rain. See the full month-by-month breakdown for the exact figures.
What is the hottest month in Istanbul?
July is typically the hottest month in Istanbul, averaging a high of 29°C (84°F).
What is the coldest month in Istanbul?
January is usually the coldest, with average lows around 3°C (37°F).
Does it snow in Istanbul?
Snow is rare in Istanbul; the climate data shows essentially no snowfall across the year.
Live forecast, sunrise/sunset, and more.