My hometown of Istanbul is chilly but magical during winter. After a long, hot summer in Istanbul, let’s talk about the chill factor.
Here is what I suggest you see and do during winter in Istanbul. I have also detailed what to expect weather-wise and culture-wise when you’re there this year!
Why Istanbul Is A Good Idea
Are you thinking about visiting Istanbul during the winter? Here are some fabulous reasons why it’s a great idea:
- Festive Atmosphere: Istanbul comes alive with festive decorations and holiday markets during the winter months. The city’s festive spirit, especially during Christmas and New Year’s, adds a touch of magic to your visit.
- Immerse yourself in the breathtaking winter landscapes of Istanbul.
- Experience the incredible winter sales in Istanbul.
- Winter in Istanbul presents the opportunity to indulge in unique seasonal dishes.
- By visiting Istanbul in winter, you have the advantage of avoiding large crowds.
- Exploring Istanbul’s cozy cafes is especially delightful during the winter months.
- A significant number of Istanbul’s tourist attractions are situated indoors, ideal for winter visits.
- The cold weather in Istanbul during winter is not as severe as you might expect.
- If you’re interested in skiing, Istanbul provides the opportunity for this winter activity.
- During the winter season, Istanbul offers more affordable prices.
So, why not bundle up and enjoy all that Istanbul has to offer during the chilly season?
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
Things To Know About A Winter Trip To Istanbul
If you’ve never been to Istanbul, you’re missing out. If you’ve been to Turkey’s largest city before but have never seen Istanbul in the winter, you’ve missed a massive chunk of your experience!
Winter in Istanbul is a veritable feast of wonder, beauty, and, occasionally, a little snow. The weather’s a little chilly, but you can still get some enjoyable days on the banks of the Bosphorus.
We’re talking about a city that spans two continents here, with more history in one single spot than you’ll see in entire countries worldwide. Istanbul has seen battles, sieges, and the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires before a successful modernization, making it one of the most cosmopolitan.
It’s not an exaggeration to say that visiting Istanbul is one of the best things to do in Türkiye in winter. Food, shopping, history, culture, entertainment, nightlife, you name it, you’ll find it, and more. Even in winter, Istanbul is an incredibly vibrant, lively, and bustling metropolis.
If you’re keen on heading to Istanbul this wintertime, let’s explore what you can expect and a few other valuable tips to help you have the best time possible.
Best Things To Do In Istanbul During Winter
There is so much to do in Istanbul in the winter that it’s impossible to mention everything. Of course, as before, the only thing that winter stops you from doing is swimming, but if you’re desperate for a dip, there are plenty of hotels with indoor swimming pools!
Here are a few recommended places to visit in Istanbul in December, January, and February.
- Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet – Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, this is one of the most famous and most beautiful sights in all of Istanbul. You can go inside, or you can stand outside and marvel. The choice is yours
- Hagia Sofia, Sultanahmet – Directly opposite Blue Mosque is Hagia Sofia. It was once a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now it’s a mosque again. It might not look quite so stunning from the outside, but trust me, the interior is amazing
- Basilica Cistern, Sultanahmet – Head underground to visit ancient history. This old cistern used to serve Topkapi Palace, but it was built as far back as the year 532. You’ll see intricately decorated columns statues (including Medusa) and learn all about history. It’s super atmospheric and one of the best things to see in Istanbul.
- Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet/Fatih – Get ready to haggle! This is the oldest and biggest covered market in Europe, and inside, you’ll find everything you could possibly want to take home as a souvenir. Just don’t get lost; it’s quite the maze in there
- Egyptian Spice Bazaar, Eminonu—While nowhere near as big as the Grand Bazaar, the Egyptian Spice Market is a great spot and ideal for photos. The colorful spices beg you to purchase them, but there’s more than that inside. It’s old, too—dating back to 1664—making it a sure-to-visit landmark in Istanbul.
- Suleymaniye Mosque, Fatih – Make sure you wear comfortable shoes for this one because it’s quite the hill walk, but the views from the top are more than worth the effort. The mosque itself is beautiful, and it dates back to 1557. As with all mosques, you can go inside as long as you’re dressed correctly, but just walking around the complex and taking in the views is a beautiful thing to do
- Bosphorus Bridge, Ortakoy—Down by the huge Bosphorus Bridge is Ortakoy, a busy and fun area to spend a little time. This area is famous for kumpir (jacket potatoes) and waffles with all manner of toppings—you have to try them!
- Balik ekmek in Eminonu and the Galata Bridge – Balik ekmek is a fish sandwich, but this is a super-special and delicious one! Enjoying this popular street food snack down by the waterside is a fun thing to do, and you can walk over and admire the famous Galata Bridge as you do so
- Dolmabahce Palace, Besiktas – Hands down, one of the best things to do in Istanbul is to visit Dolmabahce Palace, and no matter what month of the year, there will always be a queue. Built by the Ottoman Empire when they thought Topkapi was getting a bit old, this was also the official Istanbul residence of Ataturk and where he died on November 10, 1938
- Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet – Speaking of palaces, Topkapi is the OG, and this place is opulence on another scale. With amazing views over the Bosphorus, you’ll need to get there early as the queue is often huge all day long. It’s worth it, though
- Istanbul Archaeology Museum, Sultanahmet – Exploring the archaeological history of Istanbul is one of the best things to do on a cold and rainy day, and you’ll find plenty in this museum to keep you interested
- Gulhane Park, Sultanahmet – If you happen to visit Istanbul when it snows, this park turns into something that looks like Narnia. But even if it’s not snowing, it’s a beautiful spot and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city
- Istanbul Aquarium, Floya (Bakirkoy)—On the other side of Istanbul, close to the old Ataturk Airport, you’ll find Florya, a fun area packed with activities. One of those activities is the Istanbul Aquarium, a great day out for all the family.
- Shopping Malls – Istanbul isn’t lacking in the shopping department, and countless huge ones are dotted all around the city. Check out Mall of Istanbul and Cevahir as just two options, but all of the city’s malls are packed with activities other than shopping, so they’re great for escaping the cold
- Istiklal Street, Taksim Square – Wrap up warm and make your way down the famous Istiklal Street in Taksim. It’s always super-busy, so do watch your bag around this area, but it’s a fun spot and really vibrant
- Football match – Whether or not you support any of the Istanbul teams, heading to a football match is a fantastic experience. The top three teams are Galatasaray, Besiktas, and Fenerbahce
- Turkish coffee house – You’ll find traditional tea and coffee houses all over the city, but the oldest are in Eminonu, Fatih, and Sultanahmet. Enjoy a warm drink to escape the cold and do something traditional all at the same time
- Eat local food or take a food tour – What better time to work your way around the city’s top food spots? You could even take a food walking tour and learn about food as you try it
- Whirling Dervishes – Galata Mevlevihanesi is a famous spot to learn about the whirling dervishes, and there are shows throughout the week. You’ll have to get there early, however, as this is a very popular activity
- New Year’s Eve – take a cruise on the Bosphorus or party at a nightclub or restaurant
- Turkish Bath – both a cultural obsession and a way to keep warm, heading to one of the traditional Turkish baths in Istanbul is a great idea
You won’t get to see and do everything during winter in Istanbul on just one visit. You probably won’t be able to see and do everything within the space of a few visits, but you’ll adore walking around and unearthing sights you may never have seen otherwise.
The list of Istanbul winter activities, food options, and other tourist highlights above is by no means exhaustive, and simply grabbing a coffee and wandering will show you old buildings that starkly contrast the city’s modern-day feel.
Brands We Use And Trust
Istanbul In Winter: What To Expect From Istanbul In The Winter
Wintertime is the best time to go to Istanbul because you escape the heat. While the city doesn’t bake in the same way the southern beach resorts in Turkey do, it’s still pretty hot during the summer months, and with the huge crowds you see every single day, it feels much more desirable in reality.
There is an absolute plethora of things to do in Istanbul in winter. From December through February, you can explore more freely. Many places will still be bustling, but at least you can walk around without sweating!
Does It Snow In Istanbul
Let’s also answer the often-asked question, ‘Does it snow in Istanbul in December?’ Yes, occasionally, it does snow in Istanbul. Snowfall isn’t as common as it used to be, though.
For the last few years, there has been very minimal snowfall, when in the past, there used to be abundant amounts for a time every single year. If you’re lucky enough to visit the city when it snows, you’ll see that Istanbul in the snow is absolutely gorgeous. We landed on February 12, 2023, and missed the city’s biggest snowstorm by just a few days this winter.
However, it does rain. This is a coastal city, so you can expect clouds often, but don’t let that put you off. There are some beautiful sunny days to be had, and even if it is raining, there is a certain charm about Istanbul that makes you forget the need for an umbrella.
There is something special about getting wrapped up warm and wandering around the city’s amazing sights. Grab a takeaway coffee and walk with it along the shores of the Bosphorus, seeing where the day takes you.
Are There Crowds During Winter In Istanbul
Yes. Istanbul is famous for being super busy, and traffic is always heavy. During our trip this winter, it was busy, busy!
However, you need to roll with the crowds. If you’re heading to Istiklal Street in Taksim, you’ll see a sea of people no matter the time of the day or night – even in the early hours! Besiktas is always buzzing, although places like Sultanahmet, Eminonu, Kadikoy, and Uskudar tend to quieten after midnight.
So, what can you expect in Istanbul during the winter months? Have a great time—lots of Istanbul winter activities to do. You’re not restricted in terms of things to see and do, and you may find that prices are a little lower, except for New Year. The only thing you can’t do is swim in the sea – unless you want hypothermia, of course.
Is Istanbul In Winter Expensive?
The great thing about Istanbul is that you can make it as cheap or expensive as possible. It depends on what you choose to do and where you choose to eat.
You can eat at super-expensive restaurants and pay thousands of Turkish Lira for the benefit. Or, you can head to a local ocakbasi (BBQ restaurant) away from the main tourist streets and fill up on delicious local treats for a much lower price tag.
During the New Year period, you’ll always find that hotel prices skyrocket. There are numerous things to do in Istanbul in December; this is the holiday season.
If you’re not concerned about spending the festivities in the city, it’s best to avoid that time and choose another week. You can always find great value deals for hotels and hostels in the city online, and because it’s so easy to get around, it doesn’t matter where you stay unless you have a specific preference.
To give you an idea of what you can expect to pay, here are a few examples as of Feb 2023
Coffee – 30-50 Lira
- Water – 5 Lira
- Two-course meal in a local restaurant – 350 Lira
- Three-course meal in a seafood restaurant (Galata Bridge/Bebek/Besiktas) – 500 Lira
- Local beer 40-50 Lira
Bear in mind that the exchange rate fluctuates, and at the moment, the prices for things in Tukey have changed dramatically in the last two years. That said, the price in USD or euro remains much the same.
In terms of the price of activities, many are free. For example, you can visit the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet for free and donate if you choose. The Grand Bazaar is also free, except for what you buy.
The Istanbul Tourist Pass is an excellent way to save cash and avoid queues at the door. Various packages allow you entrance into different places, but depending on how many days you want to purchase, you can expect to pay 50 Euros.
Dolmabahce Palace and Topkapi Palace are two of the most expensive high-profile spots you’ll want to see if you prefer to pay at the door. Dolmabahce Palace charges a fee for basic entry and an extra for the harem. However, both are must-visits; once you see inside, you won’t care that you had to pay! Topkapi Palace is 500 TL to get in and visit the harem.
Istanbul Weather In Winter
Rain
Cold weather differs from place to place since every country has its own type of climate. If you plan to visit Istanbul in January, be prepared to get a little wet, as the chance of rain is high. January is typically the wettest month of the year, with about two weeks of non-stop rain and cold winds.
It also goes without saying that it’ll be pretty cloudy over there, so ensure you’re prepared for only a few hours of sunlight daily.
Snow
Additionally, you can expect snow during the coldest months of the year—such as January. While the snowfall won’t be as heavy as in the colder months in North America, this city does experience a fair amount of snow in December and at the beginning of January.
Therefore, make sure that you take warm and waterproof clothing with you. There’s nothing worse than trying to see the city’s sights only to be completely drenched and soaked to the skin.
Still, if doing things outdoors is not your cup of tea, don’t worry—there are many fantastic indoor museums and palaces to explore.
Weather in Istanbul In December
Average Temperatures:
Day: 7°C to 11°C (45°F to 52°F)
Night: 5°C to 7°C (41°F to 45°F)
Conditions: December is relatively mild but can feel colder due to the wind from the sea. Expect frequent rain, fog, and some cloudy days. Snow is rare but possible toward the end of the month. There are roughly 12 days of sunshine, but the rest of the month can be grey and overcast.
Rainfall: Moderate, with an average of 110mm spread over 17 days.
Tips: Bring layers, scarves, and waterproof shoes. An umbrella is essential.
January Weather in Istanbul
Average Temperatures:
Day: 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 47°F)
Night: 1°C to 4°C (34°F to 39°F)
Conditions: January is the coldest month, with a higher chance of snow. While snow does not always settle, it can transform the city for a few days. Expect plenty of rain, grey skies, and cold winds. January is one of the wettest months, so it’s important to be prepared for rain.
Rainfall: High, with around 120mm spread over 16 days.
Tips: Dress warmly with a good winter coat, waterproof shoes, and gloves. A sturdy umbrella is also useful.
Weather In February In Istanbul
Average Temperatures:
Day: 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F)
Night: 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F)
Conditions: February sees a mix of weather, ranging from snow and rain to sunny, crisp days. The temperature starts to climb slightly towards the end of the month, though cold snaps can still occur. On average, you’ll get about ten days of sunshine and fewer rainy days than in January.
Rainfall: Moderate, around 90mm, spread over 14 days.
Tips: Layer your clothing to handle the changing temperatures. Bring an umbrella and wear water-resistant shoes, especially during snow or rain.
Turkish Weather In Istanbul In Winter
| Month | Average Day Temp | Average Night Temp | Rainy Days | Average Rainfall | Snow Chance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December | 7°C to 11°C (45°F to 52°F) | 5°C to 7°C (41°F to 45°F) | 17 days | 110mm | Low |
| January | 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 47°F) | 1°C to 4°C (34°F to 39°F) | 16 days | 120mm | Medium |
| February | 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F) | 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F) | 14 days | 90mm | Low to Medium |
What To Pack For Istanbul In Winter
So, what do you need to pack for winter in Istanbul? From January until the end of February, Istanbul can be pretty chilly and snowy, so it’s key to ensure you pack items that can handle a range of winter weather conditions.
.Where & What to Eat While In Istanbul In Winter
If you’re a foodie, you’ll be in gastronomical heaven in Istanbul.
There is nothing you cannot find. Avoid places like Sultanahmet or Taksim if you want to eat more authentically. The restaurants will tell you that they’re serving authentic food, but it’s so touristic that you’ll end up paying a considerable amount more, and the taste won’t be the same – still good, but lacking that special something.
You’re far better off heading away from the tourist streets to Besiktas, Uskudar, or perhaps spots in Fatih. If you’re unsure, ask someone in your hotel where they eat and go there! You’ll pay much less and have a more authentic experience.
Be sure to check out chicken shish, Adana kebab, Urfa kebab, sarma Beyti, lahmacun, and many other dishes, which are just a few to add to your list when coming to Istanbul. Of course, you have to wash it all down with a glass of Turkish cay (tea)
If you’re a seafood fan, the fact that Istanbul is on the banks of the Bosphorus makes for some fantastic experiences. You can eat the famous Balik ekmek, a fish sandwich in Eminonu. That will cost you just 10TL, and it’s just as fresh and delicious as the sit-down restaurants under the Galata Bridge.
Those restaurants are ideal for a special evening if you want to eat freshly caught fish (there is a huge range) and drink the local raki. Beware—it’s powerful!
Head to Taksim, and you’ll find international food everywhere. There are some fantastic Italian restaurants on Istiklal Street, and you’ll also spot Chinese, Indian, and Mexican food; for a more upmarket take on Mexican dishes, head to Nisantasi, just above Besiktas.
Of course, we can’t talk about food without talking about the world-famous Nusr’et. This is where you can buy the iconic gold steak, but a word of warning: it doesn’t come cheap! This restaurant has gone global, and everyone’s talking about Salt Bae.
There are three Nusr’et outlets in Istanbul – with the main one in Etiler. If you prefer a lower cost and still high-quality steak, some other great steakhouses exist in Etiler, Ortakoy, and around the Bebek area. If you want to book a table, you’re best doing it weeks ahead; otherwise, you’ll be disappointed or have to queue for hours.\
…and of course, it would not be Türkiye without Turkish delight. Just try and eat one; I bet you can’t. It’ll be more like five.
Where To Stay In Istanbul For Winter Activities
When visiting Istanbul in the winter, you’ll want to stay in areas that are both central and provide easy access to indoor attractions, cozy cafés, restaurants, and other winter activities. Here are some of the best neighborhoods and hotels to consider for your winter stay:
Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is the historic heart of Istanbul and home to many of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. These are all perfect for exploring in winter, as many attractions are indoors. You’ll also find charming Turkish baths and cafes nearby to warm up after sightseeing.
Top Hotel Picks:
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
A luxurious stay with beautiful historical architecture steps from the top attractions.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
A boutique hotel with Ottoman-style décor and stunning views of the Blue Mosque and the Bosphorus.
Antusa Design Hotel & Spa
A budget-friendly option that includes a cozy atmosphere and spa facilities to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Beyoğlu (Taksim and Galata)
Beyoğlu is a vibrant area with a mix of history and modern culture. Staying near Taksim Square and Istiklal Street puts you close to shopping, dining, and nightlife. The Galata Tower is a short walk away, and the area offers an abundance of winter-friendly cafes and cultural spots.
Top Hotel Picks:
Tomtom Suites
A beautifully restored historic building offering spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace with views of the Bosphorus.
The Galata Istanbul Hotel – MGallery
A chic hotel near the iconic Galata Tower, perfect for those looking for a mix of style and comfort.
Nabu Hotel Karaköy
A trendy boutique hotel in the Karaköy district, known for its artsy vibe and proximity to great cafes and galleries.
Karaköy
Karaköy is a trendy waterfront neighborhood with easy access to the Bosphorus and ferry rides. It’s also filled with art galleries, hip cafes, and restaurants, making it ideal for foodies and those looking to experience Istanbul’s cafe culture during the colder months.
Top Hotel Picks:
10 Karaköy Istanbul
A stylish luxury hotel housed in a historic building with modern amenities and excellent dining options.
Port Bosphorus Hotel
It is an excellent option with stunning views of the Bosphorus and easy access to the ferry terminals.
House Hotel Karaköy
A boutique hotel with an industrial-chic design, perfect for travelers looking for a unique experience in the heart of Karaköy.
Nişantaşı
For those who enjoy shopping and upscale dining, Nişantaşı is one of Istanbul’s most fashionable areas. Here, you’ll find boutique stores, high-end restaurants, and cozy cafes to escape the winter chill. It’s also an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like Dolmabahçe Palace.
Top Hotel Picks:
The St. Regis Istanbul
This luxury hotel offers impeccable service and lavish rooms and is located in the heart of Nişantaşı’s shopping district.
Nişantaşı My Residence
It is a comfortable option with modern amenities, located just a short walk from the area’s top shops and cafes.
The Stay Nişantaşı
It is a stylish boutique hotel known for its artistic design and elegant atmosphere, perfect for fashion lovers.
Kadıköy (Asian Side)
For a more local and laid-back experience, Kadıköy on the Asian side of Istanbul offers a great mix of traditional markets, vibrant streets, and winter activities. Here, you’ll find great food tours, cultural experiences, and some of Istanbul’s best cafes to escape the cold.
Top Hotel Picks:
Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamış Marina Hotel
A luxurious hotel with a spa located near the marina and offering stunning sea views.
DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul Moda
This hotel is located near Moda, a hip district with plenty of cafes and a relaxed atmosphere.
Juliet Rooms & Kitchen
A cozy boutique hotel offering a homely atmosphere, it is just a short walk from the ferry terminal, which provides easy access to the European side.
Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie
No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
Great Places to Go for a Cozy Cup of Coffee on a Rainy Day
- Archeo Cafe
- Noir Pit Pera
- Güney Galataespressolab (located in Taksim)
- The Friends Cafe (located in Kadikoy)
- Walter’s Coffee Roastery
- Antik Balat
Istanbul Winter Travel FAQs
What is the weather like in Istanbul in winter?
Istanbul’s winter weather can be quite varied. December usually sees temperatures ranging from 8 to 12 degrees Celsius (46-54°F), while January and February can be colder, with temperatures between 3 and 9 degrees Celsius (37-48°F). It’s not uncommon to experience snow in Istanbul during the coldest months. Planning a trip to Turkey at this time means you should pack warm clothing, including a scarf and other winter accessories.
Is it a good idea to visit Istanbul in winter?
Absolutely! Visiting Istanbul in winter offers a unique charm and a quieter experience compared to the bustling summer months. The city’s historical sites, like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate exploration. Additionally, you can enjoy warm Turkish beverages like salep in cozy cafes.
What should I pack for a winter trip to Istanbul?
When planning a trip to Istanbul in winter, make sure to pack warm clothing. Essentials include an excellent coat, thermal layers, a scarf, gloves, and a hat. Waterproof footwear is also advisable as snow and rain are possible. Don’t forget an umbrella and some comfortable walking shoes to explore the city.
What are some of the best things to do in Istanbul in December?
December in Istanbul is filled with festive activities and beautiful decorations. You can explore the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque without the usual crowds. Other things to do in Istanbul include shopping at the Grand Bazaar, enjoying a Turkish bath, and sipping warm drinks in historical cafes.
So, now you’re ready to visit Istanbul in winter. After you visit, please let us know what else we can add to this guide.
- Best Hotels in Cappadocia, Türkiye
- All About Traveling In The Balkans
- 34 Idyllic Balkan Cities You Must Visit
- Incredible Black Sea Resorts
- Best Places To Stay In Sultanahmet Istanbul
- How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia
- Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride Tips
- Greek Island Day Trip From Southern Turkey
- Tips For Traveling Turkey On A Budget
- How To Get From Pamukkale To Cappadocia
- Best Sandy Beaches To Visit In Türkiye
Does anything close in winter?
In Istanbul, some tourist attractions and businesses may have reduced operating hours or seasonal closures during the winter months, but the city generally remains active and vibrant throughout the year.
thanks for share nice post abouot my city
Hi SJ. Thank you for this wonderfully detailed information about Istanbul. I was a bit skeptical about December as someone told me it’s not the season one must visit Turkey. I am travelling for my honeymoon and I must say I have really enjoyed reading your blog♥️
You are so welcome. So many think about places as just summer destinations, but we love Türkiye in winter. I hope you will also.