Istanbul in Winter: What’s it Like and the 9 Best Things to Do
Are you considering visiting Istanbul in winter? After exploring the city in mid-December, here’s our experience and everything you need to know.
Istanbul is such a dynamic city and we’ve visited several times over the years. It’s busy, sometimes crowded and chaotic. But, it’s also full of historical sites, wonderful architecture and so much culture.
Being the largest city in Europe, it’s really no surprise that Istanbul gets a lot of visitors. People travel to the city from all over the world, either on a layover or before exploring other parts of Turkey.
But, while it’s a super popular summer destination, what if you find yourself in Istanbul in winter? Is it worth visiting during the off-season? And what is there to do in the winter months?
Well, I’m going to tell you exactly how we found visiting Istanbul in December along with the best things to do, and whether or not I think it’s worth it.
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✅ Don’t miss: Hagia Sofia and Basilica Cistern.
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Why Visit Istanbul in Winter?
As I mentioned, Istanbul is a city that can be visited all year round. To date, we’ve visited twice at two very different times of year, so I can give you a direct comparison based on our own experience.
The first time we visited Istanbul was in June. We spent 3 days in Istanbul in the middle of the month before jetting off the spend a week by the coast in Fethiye.
Istanbul in June was HOT. Most of the days were above 30°C, and considering how crowded the city was, it was sweltering.
In contrast, the second time we visited Istanbul was in December. The city was much less busy and we noticed that immediately as soon as we left the airport.
On top of that, the daytime temperature was a comfortable 18°C. It was much more bearable and much nicer for it.
Many of the attractions in Istanbul are open all year round, so you can still enjoy the best things to do in the city in the winter months. We also found that the accommodation was more affordable in December. Although, prices weren’t too high in June either!
The flight prices to Istanbul were noticeably cheaper from London, in winter. Although our second time in Istanbul we were on a layover before we flew to the desert in Oman.
But overall, if you want fewer crowds, lower prices for flights and accommodation and much more bearable temperatures, winter is a great time to visit Istanbul.
9 Amazing Things to Do in Istanbul in Winter
One of the best things about visiting Istanbul in winter is that many of the top attractions are still open. It’s not like Greece where they have a noticeable shift depending on the seasons and things close for the winter. Most of the things you can do in Istanbul, you can do all year round.
Here are some of the best things I recommend when you visit Istanbul in winter.
1. Visit Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
There was definitely a difference when we visited these mosques in December compared to June. The queue to enter Hagia Sofia was significantly smaller and the crowds inside the Blue Mosque were less as well.
These are two of Istanbul’s most well-known landmarks. Located right in the centre of the Sultanahmet district and just a few minutes away from one another, these spots are must-sees in the city.
The Hagia Sophia has had one of the most interesting histories of any building I’ve ever visited. It was originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 AD before being changed to a mosque, then changed to a museum, then back to a mosque!
It’s mostly known for its massive domed ceiling and stunning mosaics.
The Blue Mosque is also known for its mosaics, and it got its nickname due to the beautiful blue tiles all over the ceiling.
Both of these buildings are completely stunning and free to visit. They are still working mosques though, so you will need to be respectful, remove your shoes before you enter, ensure your knees and shoulders are covered, and cover your hair if you’re a woman.
✅ This tour is a great way to learn about Istanbul’s greatest mosques
2. Marvel at the Stunning Basilica Cistern
This is one of my personal favourite places to visit in the whole of Istanbul. It’s absolutely magical inside and the only time I’ve been here has been in December.
When we visited in June, it was closed for renovation, which was a shame, but we were so glad we could see it on our second visit.
Basilica Cistern is effectively a huge underground chamber that used to store water for the entire city. It was constructed beneath the streets of Istanbul in the 6th century and is one of the city’s most intriguing historical sites.
You can head down into this vast underground reservoir and it’s literally mesmerising to walk around. It’s huge and can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water! But, the most impressive part of it is the 336 marble columns that support the ceiling.
Out of these columns, there are also two that stand out even more as they feature an upside-down Medusa head at their base. On top of that, the lighting in the places just adds to the atmosphere as it changes between red, green, and white light.
It’s a truly surreal place to explore and well worth visiting if you’re in Istanbul in winter or summer.
✅ This is the best way to discover the history of the Basilica Cistern
Top Tip: It’s incredibly humid down there though, so not the most fun if you have curly hair, like me!
3. Explore Topkapi Palace
We visited Topkapi Palace in June. It was a stunning place with rooms full of mosaics, chairs decked in jewels, ornamental statues, and some of the most amazing ceilings I’ve ever seen.
Topkapi Palace is also located in Sultanahmet overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. It was built in the mid-15th century and served as the primary residence for Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years.
The entire complex spans 70,000 meters and includes several courtyards full of greenery and fountains and elaborately decorated pavilions with stunning views over the Bosphorus.
Inside, you can explore all the different rooms and see one of the world’s most significant collections of Islamic relics, such as the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword.
This definitely isn’t the cheapest place to visit in Istanbul. In fact, when we visited, it was the most expensive thing we did besides the Bosphorus dinner cruise. However, it’s easily one of the most beautiful.
It’s also slightly more expensive now because they’ve combined the tickets for the Palace and the Harem Museum. You used to be able to buy these separately, but now, you have to purchase both.
4. Visit the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
You simply can’t visit Istanbul in winter and not explore the bazaars. This is an essential part of Turkish culture and there is just so much to see in these places.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and most well-known markets in all of Europe. It covers a humungous area and contains over 4,000 shops spread across a maze of streets, passageways, and little alleys.
It’s a great place for shopaholics and you’ll find a huge range of things from intricate carpets, to mounds of spices, jewellery, handcrafted ceramics, and antiques.
The nearby Spice Bazaar is just as interesting but on a smaller scale. It’s also known as the Egyptian Bazaar and is much more food-based than the Grand Bazaar.
You’ll find spices, herbs, dried fruits, sweets, Turkish tea and coffee, Turkish delight, and much more. The smell is delicious and together, these Bazaars really capture the culture in Istanbul.
We saw both locals and tourists here and, even though we visited in December, it was still pretty crowded. Unfortunately, due to the crowds, you can often get pickpockets here, so be extra careful of your belongings.
✅ This tour is a great way to discover the secrets of the Grand Bazaar.
5. Go on a Bosphorus Cruise
If you want a great way to get out of the city and onto the water, there’s no better way than a Bosphorus cruise. There are several cruises that you can take on the Bosphorus and which one you opt for will depend on what you’re into.
We chose to do a Bosphorus dinner cruise when we visited in June and had a fantastic time. The views over the water from the city skyline were amazing, we got to experience Turkish dancing and culture, and we also had a delicious 3-course meal on board.
👉 If you’re interested, read about our Bosphorus dinner cruise experience here.
If a dinner cruise doesn’t interest you, there are also daytime cruises that are much more informative. These are more like guided tours than cultural experiences and many have a physical guide or an audioguide that can explain the sites to you from the water.
Both of these options are great ways to see Istanbul from a different perspective. If you visit in summer, it will be warm, however, winter will definitely be a bit chillier, so you may need to pack a jacket for this one!
✅ This was the dinner cruise we booked and we had the best time!
6. Relax and Unwind at a Turkish Bath (Hammams)
If you want a great way to experience Turkish culture and escape the outdoors, a Turkish Bath is one of the best things to do in Istanbul in winter.
This bath is a centuries-old tradition and such a rejuvenating experience. It almost blends relaxation with ritual. The Hammam originated from Roman and Byzantine bathing practices and involves a series of cleansing and purification steps in a beautiful marble room.
The experience typically involves a full body scrub, a gentle massage, and a period when you can enjoy a drink and completely unwind.
It’s a fantastic way to relax after a day in Istanbul exploring the bustling city streets.
7. Explore the Cozy Cafés
Istanbul has no shortage of fantastic cafes and escaping to one of these places is one of the best things to do in winter in Istanbul. Turkish drinks, especially tea and coffee, are delicious and a large part of the culture there.
We went to a restaurant several times in Turkey where they insisted on giving us free tea. On top of this, Turkish coffee is completely delicious and a must-try in Istanbul.
If you need a break from exploring the city, I recommend ducking into a little cafe for a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of cake. You could also try a few Turkish specialities including baklava, sahlep (a warm, milky drink), and Turkish soups.
I recommend visiting Şirin Firin in Galata which is a great coffee shop.
8. Admire the Christmas Decorations
Being a Muslim country, Turkey doesn’t really celebrate Christmas. Nonetheless, while they don’t have traditional Christmas Markets, there are some destinations throughout the city where you can find a hint of festive spirit.
Plus, they do get a lot of European tourists, so they often add decorations to hotels and popular tourist attractions.
Streets like Istiklal Avenue in the heart of Taksim are often lined with sparkling displays and festive window decorations. We also saw the lights and large Christmas trees outside several churches in the city including the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua.
9. Celebrate New Year’s Eve
Last but not least, Istanbul is one of the best places in Europe to celebrate New Year’s Eve. It’s usually a fantastic blend of Turkish culture and European flair. You’ll find lively parties, vibrant street celebrations, and huge fireworks displays that light up the sky.
Popular spots to ring in the New Year include Taksim Square and Ortaköy waterfront which come alive with crowds enjoying live music, street performances, and open-air festivities.
And if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, many of Istanbul’s upscale restaurants and hotels put on extravagant gala dinners.
You’ll also find a lot of boats covered with twinkling lights on the Bosphorus, either hosting parties or sailing to the perfect vantage point to watch the fireworks.
Practical Winter Travel Tips for Istanbul
So, now that you know a little more about the best things to do in Istanbul in winter, is there anything you need to bear in mind? Here are a few of my top tips for visiting the Turkish city in the winter months:
- Dress in layers: Winter in Istanbul can be chilly and sometimes rainy. I recommend wearing layers to stay comfortable and bringing at least one warm coat and jumpers. A waterproof outer layer is also a good idea due to the chance of rain. You may also need T-shirts though, as the daytime can be very sunny, so always be prepared.
- Bring comfortable footwear: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking in Istanbul, so comfy shoes are a must. Plus, if it rains, you’re less likely to get soggy feet.
- Plan some indoor activities: While winter weather might limit some outdoor activities, Istanbul’s many museums, palaces, and historic sites offer plenty of indoor attractions. It’s always good to have a few indoor activities on your list just in case. A few I don’t recommend missing are the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.
- Be aware of shorter daylight hours: Daylight hours are shorter in winter, with sunset as early as 16:30. Plan your days in Istanbul accordingly to make the most of the daylight.
- Embrace the season: Winter can offer a quieter, more relaxed experience compared to the bustling summer months. Enjoy the city’s festive decorations and cosy atmosphere, and take advantage of shorter lines and fewer crowds at major attractions.
What’s the Temperature Like in Istanbul in Winter?
The temperature can vary quite a lot in Istanbul in winter. When we spent 2 days in Istanbul in December, it was warm, dry, and 18°C pretty much the entire time we were there. However, a few days before we landed, the forecast was 14°C and raining.
On average, the temperature in Istanbul in winter ranges from 8°C to 15°C, but can drop as low as 3°C or as high as 18°C. January is usually the coldest month of the year. We actually got very lucky with the weather.
It’s also not uncommon to experience rain in winter in Istanbul. Overall, Istanbul’s winter is relatively mild compared to other European cities, but I still recommend packing layers and preparing for potentially wet conditions.
Is it Worth Visiting Istanbul in Winter?
Yes, it’s 100% worth visiting Istanbul in winter. We had a fantastic time when we visited Istanbul in December and in many ways, enjoyed it more than our trip to the city in June.
We found fewer crowds and lovely mild weather, which was much more enjoyable than the stifling heat and humidity in summer. Plus, the same great attractions that make the city such a great place to visit were still available.
All in all, if you’re considering a winter trip to Istanbul, it’s completely worth it and I hope this article has given you lots of inspiration.
👉 Haven’t decided where to stay yet? Here are my favourite places to stay in Istanbul including both of the hotels we’ve stayed in on our trips.
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