Turkey Weather in December
Season: Winter
In short: Cold and wet
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
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December is also the rainiest month with the highest average precipitation of 103mm of the year. Such large rainfall will have bad influence on your travel. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid destinations like Antalya, which tends to receive frequent and prolonged rainy periods.
The warmest cities in Turkey in December
Adana: 7-17°C (44.6-62.6°F); Antalya: 7-17°C (44.6-62.6°F); Izmir: 8-14°C (46.4-57.2°F)The coldest cities in Turkey in December
Erzurum: -10--1°C (14-30.2°F); Van: -5-4°C (23-39.2°F); Konya: -2-7°C (28.4-44.6°F)
Packing Lists for a Turkey Trip in December
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Southern and Southwestern Turkey: During the month, the region experiences mild climate, making long-sleeved shirts, jeans, and a cardigan perfect daytime attire. However, nights and early mornings will be cold, so you need to bring a thicker coat. Trench coat, leather jacket, or denim jacket are all good choices. For the flat terrain in this region, a pair of non-slip sneakers is sufficient. But if you prefer a more stylish look, ankle boots are also excellent options. Additionally, there is heavy rainfall in this month, so it’s necessary to pack an umbrella or rain suit.
Top Destinations to Visit in Turkey in December
Tourism Rate:Indeed, Turkey has cold and wet climate in December, which might discourage some visitors from traveling. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts of winter’s distinctive scenery and serene atmosphere, this month offers unique travel experience. Moreover, being the off season, December is more wallet-friendly. Below are a few destinations worth exploring in December, 2024:
1. Cappadocia
Cappadocia turns into a breathtaking winter wonderland in December. Imagine yourself as the protagonist of a fairy tale, and wander through the snow-capped fairy chimneys. The Goreme Open Air Museum invites you to leave your footprints in the snow, when exploring ancient churches and intricate frescoes here. Also, the Uqi Hisar Castle looks more magnificent under the snow, and you can have a breathtaking and splendid winter view of Cappadocia from its top. In addition, you can try a cup of Turkish coffee in the warm cave hotel and enjoy the rare peace of Goreme.
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Tip: If you seek an unforgettable hot air balloon ride in December, be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand, as snowfall can significantly impact the likelihood of flight. Promptly communicating with your balloon booking agency is also essential, to reschedule or adjust your plans, minimizing any inconvenience or disappointment.
2. Pamukkale
During December, tourists don’t frequently appear in your shots. Direct your lens towards the crystal-clear calcification pools, capturing their intricate transformations under varying light conditions. Alternatively, zoom out to embrace the panoramic view of the tiered white stairs. As you turn the camera towards the ruins of Hierapolis Ancient City, you’ll discover baths, markets, arches, and amphitheaters here. Their sheer scale and grandeur will inevitably invite you to pause. Moreover, don’t miss the opportunity to relax yourself in the natural hot springs that are believed to have been visited by Egyptian Queen Cleopatra.3. Konya
In Konya, you can discover the spiritual philosophy of Sufism in the Mevlana Museum; experience the blend of Eastern and Western cultures in the largest ancient Silk Road courier station; and trace the long history of Anatolia in the ruins of the Seljuk Empire (1037-1194) such as the gorgeous Aladdein Mosque. The most special experience is to feel the purification and sublimation of the spirit in the rhythm of whirling dervishes. Moreover, in order to commemorate Mevlana, the founder of Sufism, a grand prayer will be held every year in December. This is a rare opportunity for you to learn about the local culture better.
December Weather of Major Turkey Destinations
City | Temp. |
Rain fall(mm) |
Humi- dity(%) |
Sunrise/ Sunset |
Istanbul |
6-11°C (42.8 - 51.8°F) |
84 | 77 |
08:09-08:28 / 17:36-17:45 |
Ephesus |
9-15°C (48.2 - 59°F) |
126 | 73 |
08:07-08:26 / 17:51-18:00 |
Antalya |
7-17°C (44.6 - 62.6°F) |
251 | 70 |
07:50-08:09 / 17:40-17:50 |
Cappadocia |
-4-8°C (24.8 - 46.4°F) |
38 | 78 |
07:39-07:58 / 17:19-17:28 |
Pamukkale |
5-12°C (41 - 53.6°F) |
79 | 67 |
07:59-08:19 / 17:44-17:53 |
Canakkale |
5-12°C (41 - 53.6°F) |
93 | 78 |
08:16-08:36 / 17:49-17:58 |
Fethiye |
7-17°C (44.6 - 62.6°F) |
164 | 70 |
07:56-08:15 / 17:47-17:57 |
Konya |
-2-7°C (28.4 - 44.6°F) |
56 | 82 |
07:46-08:05 / 17:31-17:40 |
Pergamon |
5-14°C (41 - 57.2°F) |
68 | 73 |
08:10-08:30 / 17:48-17:58 |
Ankara |
-2-7°C (28.4 - 44.6°F) |
36 | 80 |
07:50-08:09 / 17:23-17:32 |
Trabzon |
7-13°C (44.6 - 55.4°F) |
76 | 69 |
07:26-07:45 / 16:53-17:02 |