- Hottest
- July–August, humid
- Wettest
- December–March
- Year-round
- Wind and comfortable shoes
The temperature number misleads
Istanbul is surrounded by water, and humidity pushes the felt temperature up in summer and down in winter: 30 degrees feels different from 30 in the Gulf, and so does 8. Wind off the Bosphorus is there year-round and cools the evenings noticeably; you feel it most on a boat trip.
What to pack by season
In spring and autumn layers are the answer: mornings are cool, midday mild, evenings cool again; a light waterproof takes no space. In summer, light breathable fabrics, a hat and a thin layer for evenings. In winter, waterproof shoes matter more because of wet pavements than because of the rain itself.
Mosques and shoes
For mosque visits shoulders and knees must be covered and women need a headscarf; a free cover is given at the entrance, though bringing your own shawl is more comfortable. Shoes come off and go into a bag, so easy-off shoes and clean socks make the day easier. Much of the historic peninsula is cobbled; heels do not work on this tour.
Let us build the programme in this guide for you
Send your dates and party size; we will come back the same day with the route and a fixed price.
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