Ankara, Turkey: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
Traveling to Ankara, Turkey? If you're planning to go to Ankara, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Ankara
- Important essentials for Ankara
- Activities for Ankara
- Ankara in January: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in February: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in March: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in April: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in May: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in June: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in July: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in August: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in September: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in October: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in November: weather and what to pack
- Ankara in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Ankara, Turkey
Based on the climate and weather in Ankara, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Ankara, Turkey
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ankara, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards may wear away. An unreadable card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection available.
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ankara. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
-
For families with young children
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. This one works in most places, but check with your hotel.
What to wear/what to pack for Ankara, Turkey by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Ankara is frosty and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 5 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. It also snows about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our choice: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Gloves
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Ankara, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a great choice.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
In February, Ankara is pretty cool and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Ankara, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: this one
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy jacket
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Ankara, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is an excellent choice.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Ankara can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. It also snows sometimes. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Ankara, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is vital here. This one is an excellent choice.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you go to Ankara in April, you will notice that it is crisp and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Jacket or coat
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Fleece
-
Extra socks
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
In May, Ankara is balmy, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Ankara, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 50%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Pants or jeans
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
Extra socks
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
If you go to Ankara in June, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sandals
-
Extra socks
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Bug repellent
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you vacation in Ankara during July, you are likely to see that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Bug repellent
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light skirts
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
If you visit Ankara during August, you will probably find that it is pretty consistently hot and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunglasses
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
September here is warm and very dry. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you are traveling to Ankara in October, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November is cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Jacket or coat
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Ankara, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect option.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
Traveling to Ankara in December, you will notice that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our choice: here
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Ankara, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is a great option.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to go to the majestic Kocatepe Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Ankara tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the Ankara Ethnography Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Activities for Ankara, Turkey
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Ankara.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Tok, Alaska, United States of America, Garni, Armenia, Queralbs, Spain, Thalassery, India, Vesterålen, Norway, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada, United States of America, Kumpur, Nepal, Hidalgo, Hidalgo, Mexico, Kaili, China, Atmore, Alabama, United States of America, and Gorinchem, Netherlands.