What is the Hottest Month in Turkey?

Turkey is a stunning country located at the intersection of Europe and Asia. This diverse nation boasts beautiful beaches historic sites, vibrant cities, and incredible natural scenery. But when is the best time to visit Turkey to experience its famous sunny summer weather? In this article, we’ll break down Turkey’s climate by month and reveal the hottest time to visit.

Overview of Turkey’s Climate

Turkey enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, including popular destinations like Bodrum, Marmaris, and Antalya, you can expect sunny weather from May to October with temperatures reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit.

Inland regions like Cappadocia and central Anatolia have more extreme continental climates with cold, snowy winters and scorching hot summers. The Black Sea coast in the north experiences the country’s heaviest rainfall and has cooler summers. At higher elevations in locations like Mt. Nemrut, you’ll find cooler temperatures year-round.

The Hottest Months in Turkey

July and August tie for the hottest months of the year in Turkey Daily highs average around 95°F across the country, with southern and inland areas heating up well over 100°F Along with blazing temperatures, these months see the most sunshine and very little rain, especially near the coasts.

Here’s an overview of Turkey’s climate by month

• January: Average high 41-55°F, low 26-36°F. Cold and wet, especially inland where snow is common. Coastal regions are milder.

• February: Average high 43-57°F, low 27-38°F. Still chilly and damp, with the possibility of snowstorms.

• March: Average high 50-63°F, low 33-43°F. Weather improves, though inland areas remain cool.

• April: Average high 60-70°F, low 40-50°F. Pleasant spring weather, though showers persist.

• May: Average high 68-77°F, low 47-57°F. Warm and sunny, ideal for the coast and inland.

• June: Average high 75-86°F, low 54-64°F. Hot but dry. Coastal regions reach the 80s.

• July: Average high 86-95°F, low 63-73°F. Hottest month, with inland temperatures exceeding 100°F.

• August: Average high 86-95°F, low 63-72°F. Continued hot, sunny weather perfect for the beach.

• September: Average high 77-86°F, low 56-65°F. Still warm, especially south. Cooler along the coasts.

• October: Average high 68-77°F, low 46-56°F. Pleasant autumn weather.

• November: Average high 55-68°F, low 37-48°F. Cooler with increased rain.

• December: Average high 45-59°F, low 30-41°F. Chilly winter weather returns.

Popular Summer Destinations in Turkey

Turkey is hugely popular as a summer beach destination thanks to reliably hot weather. Here are some top places to soak up the sun in July and August:

• Bodrum: This trendy Aegean resort town has plentiful beaches and nightlife. Highs in summer reach the low 90s.

• Marmaris: Also on the Aegean, Marmaris offers a lively harbor and long sandy beaches. Highs average 91°F.

• Antalya: The pretty old town and long beachfront make Antalya a top summer spot. August sees average highs of 93°F.

• Dalyan: This quiet town near the Mediterranean is known for sea turtles, ancient ruins, and 90°F summer days.

• Oludeniz: Picturesque Oludeniz is famous for its Blue Lagoon. Daily highs in July and August are around 88°F.

• Fethiye: Near Oludeniz, Fethiye provides history and beaches. Average summer temperatures are in the low 90s.

Planning Your Ideal Summer Turkey Trip

To experience Turkey at its hottest, aim to visit in July or August. The weather will be sunniest and driest, perfect for lounging on the beach and exploring ruins without being hampered by rain.

Book hotels with air conditioning—a necessity with temperatures climbing over 100°F in some areas. And don’t forget the sunscreen, hats, and swimsuits. Be sure to hydrate frequently as well.

The shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall are also excellent times with pleasantly warm weather in the 70s and 80s. You’ll avoid the intense heat and crowds of summer.

No matter when you visit, Turkey promises beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, mouthwatering cuisine, and of course—plenty of sunshine!