October brings pleasant autumn weather to Turkey, offering travelers a chance to explore famous sites without facing intense summer heat. If you’re planning to visit Turkey in October, knowing what temperatures to expect can help you pack properly and plan activities. Here’s a guide to typical October temperatures in popular Turkish destinations.
Overview of Turkey’s Climate
Turkey has diverse climates ranging from Mediterranean along the coasts to continental in the interior highlands. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts boast warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Inland regions like Cappadocia see cold winters with snow and hot, dry summers. October marks the transition from summer to autumn.
Average Temperatures in October
October daytime highs range from the low 60s to upper 70s F (16 to 26C) in most regions. Here are some specifics
- Istanbul & Bosphorus Region: Highs of 64°F (18°C), lows of 53°F (12°C)
- Cappadocia & Central Anatolia: Highs of 68°F (20°C), lows of 46°F (8°C)
- Ephesus & Aegean Coast: Highs of 75°F (24°C), lows of 57°F (14°C)
- Pamukkale & Inland: Highs of 77°F (25°C), lows of 55°F (13°C)
- Antalya & Mediterranean Coast: Highs of 77°F (25°C), lows of 63°F (17°C)
Compared to summer, temperatures are about 10-15°F lower in most regions. However the Mediterranean coast stays warm in October with highs still reaching the upper 70s.
Cooler fall nights provide relief from summer heat Inland areas like Cappadocia can dip into the 40s F (single digits C) at night Pack layers if visiting Cappadocia or central Turkey. Coastal areas only cool into the 50s and 60s F (teens C) at night.
Weather Characteristics
In addition to mild temperatures, here are other weather traits in October:
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Modest rainfall – October marks the start of the rainy season, although amounts are still light compared to winter. Istanbul averages 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain in October. Showers tend to be sporadic.
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Comfortable humidity – The summer’s oppressive humidity fades in October, creating comfortable dryness ideal for sightseeing.
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Sunny skies – You can expect good amounts of sunshine in October, despite increasing rain chances. Coastal areas average 10 hours of daily sunshine.
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Cooling winds – Breezy conditions are more common, especially on the Aegean coast. Winds add an autumnal chill.
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Clear visibility – With less haze, views of surrounding hills and waterways become more vivid.
What to Pack
With highs in the 60s and 70s F (16-24C), light jackets, pants, and layers work well for October trips. Have some short sleeves too. Additional tips:
- Sweater or fleece for chilly mornings and evenings
- Light jacket for wet weather
- Long pants and long sleeves for protection at ancient sites
- Brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen despite cooler weather
- Sturdy shoes for walking on stone streets and ruins
- Light gloves and scarf if visiting Cappadocia or inland areas
Average Sea Temperatures
The Mediterranean and Aegean Seas retain summer-like warmth in October, averaging 72-75°F (22-24°C). This makes swimming and beach days possible, especially in southern coastal spots. Wetsuits are recommended for water sports though. The cooler Black Sea reaches 65°F (18°C).
Holidays and Events in October
Pleasant October weather draws crowds to festivals and outdoor events across Turkey:
- October 29 – Republic Day celebrations
- Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival
- Istanbul Biennial art festival
- Bodrum Cup sailing race
- Cappadox arts festival in Cappadocia
The comfortable temperatures combined with fun events make October a lively time to visit Turkey! With lows dropping into the 40s F (single digits C), packing layers allows you to comfortably experience Turkey’s fall weather and activities.
What’s the weather like in Side in October
Temperature
Although autumn has officially begun in Side this month, October can still see some warm temperatures. The average temperature this month is 21°C (70°F), while the average low is 15°C (59°F), and the average high is 26°C (79°F). The beginning of October brings warm days with lots of sun, virtually no rain, and an average daily temperature of 23°C (73°F).
The middle of the month has slightly cooler, yet still sunny, days, an increase in the chance of rain, and an average daily temperature of 21°C (70°F). The end of October sees mostly sunny days, again with an increase in rain, and an average daily temperature of 19°C (66°F). The lowest ever recorded temperature in Side in October is 2°C (36°F), while the highest ever recorded temperature is 38°C (100°F).
Average Sunshine Hours
The amount of sunshine decreases this month, but it is still relatively high. The average daily sunshine for October is 10 hours. This is ample time for outdoor activities, and going to the beach is still possible this month, especially towards the beginning. Although there is more than five times as much rain in October as there is in September, the total is still minimal.
Rain
The average rainfall this month is 70mm spread out over six days, not nearly enough to cause you to stay indoors for several days.
Average Sea Temperature
Along with colder outside temperatures, the sea also cools off in September. The average sea temperature this month is 24°C (75°F), which is still warm enough water to be enjoyed by all, even for extended periods.
Humidity
The average humidity in September is 58%, which is low and will not cause discomfort. October is a wonderful time to visit Side because of the cooler, yet still warm, temperatures and virtually no humidity.
Latest Side Holiday Reviews
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my holidays in side
Been to Side 3 times all early September and for 2 weeks. Weather was in early 33 to 34 degrees during most of the day with the evenings dropping down… desmond hales
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In August
Went in August too hot at times Alan
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Fantastic, paying Side a return visit…..
Warm and sunny, overall pleasant. Patricia
Seasons in Turkey: Temperature and Climate by Month
FAQ
How warm is it in Turkey in October?
Average daily temperatures
In October, Turkey experiences pleasant temperatures with an average range of 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). However, temperatures can be significantly cooler in the higher regions and at night.
Is it good to go Turkey in October?
Weather in Turkey in October
In short, the high season is already over, but the sea is still very comfortable at around +25°C (77F). The thinning tourist crowds and more affordable prices fade in comparison to what can only be considered perfect weather conditions.
What to wear in Turkey in October?
Spring or autumn months are the best time to visit this country. Although weather patterns in different parts of Turkey vary, you will mostly need your summer clothing plus a light and a thick outer jacket / sweater, full pants or jeans, and shoes.
How warm is the sea in Turkey in October?
It’s a particularly good time of year to swim in the sea, with water temperatures around 25 C.