Turkey is a favorite destination to spend the summer, and it is famed for the picturesque beaches on the Mediterranean, vibrant cities like Istanbul and Izmir and magical scenery in Fethiye.
There are so many wonderful locations in Turkey that you would struggle to experience them all.
The landscape of Cappadocia, the Cotton Castle of Pamukkale, ancient historical ruins in Ephesus and of course, the beaches in Mugla.
But, what’s it like to visit Turkey in the winter months?
Turkey is a magical place during the cold winter months, with snow capped mountains, icy streets, quiet beaches and a lot less tourists.
Some parts of Turkey are extremely cold, but if you head to the Mediterranean coast you’re in for a nice surprise because temperatures are more pleasant, not quite like those during the summer time, but still warm enough to sit outside in the sunshine and enjoy a glass of Cay.
So, whether you are after some winter sun or a snowy winter wonderland, Turkey may be just what you’re looking for.
Turkey has three different climate zones due to its enormous size. The winters in Turkey start from around mid- December and end in March. The different regions all experience different temperatures ranging from a mild 24C to a very chilly -13C, depending on the climate zone. The coldest place in Turkey during the winter months is Erzurum.
There are plenty of winter getaways in Turkey and it’s a lot quieter during that time so dealing with tourist crowds won’t be a problem.
During the winter the location is cheaper, especially in terms of accommodation. If you book your flight in the dead of winter, or around February, you will find prices will be incredibly cheaper.
In Turkey, during the winter season some parts of the country are hit by heavy snow and the scenery is magical.
If you love a bit of adventure then a winter holiday in Turkey is for you. There are many activities on offer including skiing and other ski activities.
Antalya is a great place to visit during the winter. There are many historical sites, lengthy coastlines and picturesque scenery. There are also many famous Turkish bath venues in Antalya, perfect for warming up after a chilly day exploring.
During the winter the temperature in Antalya can be between 0C to 15C.
Cappadocia is another favorite winter location and when the snow has fallen it really does become a winter wonderland.
The prehistoric volcanic eruptions have formed into magical shapes known as the ‘fairy chimneys’. You can even stay in a unique cave hotel.
This location hosts Bronze Age homes that were carved into the valley walls.
Hot air balloon rides offer an aerial view of the spectacular scenery below.
The temperature here in winter can be anything between 4C to 25C.
Istanbul is definitely a wonderful winter destination in Turkey. The landscape of this vibrant city changes completely after heavy snowfall. The famous landmarks of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the open air Hippodrome become crisp white masterpieces and are fantastic for photographers who wish to capture their magical shots.
No matter the weather, the city of Istanbul gets visitors from around the globe all throughout the year.
The temperature during Istanbul’s winter is anything between 2C to 15C.
Fethiye, in the province of Mugla, is a wonderful place during the winter time with many expats who reside there celebrating Christmas and New Year as they would in the UK. Yes, it gets cold, but the relaxed and cooler temperatures are welcomed after a long, hot and busy summer season.
The famous Babadag Mountain gets topped with snow and the rocky mountainous landscape takes on a whole new look.
Fethiye Town stays open all year round and chilly walks along the seafront are lovely with a hot cay or creamy salep. The shops stay open in the town but the beaches of Oludeniz and the resort village of Hisaronu become very quiet.
Hiking is a favorite in Fethiye due to the Lycian Way route and during the winter when the temperatures are cooler hiking becomes easier and much more enjoyable.
You can enjoy relaxing on the empty beaches because during the summer months they get extremely crowded.
The sun shines in Fethiye on average for 300 days of the year, so even though it may be chillier, it’s still pleasant.
You can enjoy the weekly markets held and the seasonal food which during winter time is citrus fruits like lemons, oranges and tangerines, perfect for fighting off the winter colds.
You can spend time in the restaurants that have outdoor heating and fleece blankets to snuggle under.
Fethiye is a wonderful place during summer time and winter time. It’s one of the few places where you can ski in the morning, sun bathe in the afternoon and enjoy a warm cup of salep or cay in the evening.
Enjoy the magnificent sunset from Calis Beach in Fethiye, whether it’s spring, summer, autumn or winter the sunset from here is an amber glow over the Fethiye Bay, with the backdrop of mountain silhouettes and is truly spectacular.
Fethiye, because of the mild climate is attractive to tourists in every season of the year and there’s something for everyone. The ideal ecologic purity of the entire area with an abundance of exotic greenery and mild Fethiye climate is what makes Fethiye different when compared to other Turkish resorts.
Fethiye has a special charm and no matter what time of year, it will welcome you with open arms. During winter time in Turkey, you can explore to your heart’s content, without crowds of tourists and with much more bearable temperatures.
You can relax and take your time whilst appreciating the history and beauty that turkey has to offer.