Istanbul Province, Turkey: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Istanbul Province, Turkey? If you're planning to go to Istanbul Province, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Istanbul Province, Turkey

Based on the climate and weather in Istanbul Province, Turkey, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Istanbul Province, Turkey

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Istanbul Province, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Istanbul Province, Turkey by month

January

Traveling to Istanbul Province in January, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

In February, Istanbul Province is pretty cool. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Istanbul Province, with several of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

March

In March, Istanbul Province is cold. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Istanbul Province, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

April

In April, Istanbul Province is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and about a third of the time jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Istanbul Province, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

May

May for Istanbul Province is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you visit Istanbul Province during June, you may find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you vacation in Istanbul Province during July, you may notice that it is hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

August

If you vacation in Istanbul Province during August, you will probably find that it is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

Traveling to Istanbul Province in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

October

October here is balmy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

November

In November, Istanbul Province is relatively cool. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Istanbul Province, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December in Istanbul Province can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). 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:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul Province. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Istanbul Province, Turkey

Istanbul Province, located in northwestern Turkey, is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. This bustling metropolis is home to over 15 million people and has a rich history spanning thousands of years. Istanbul Province is dotted with stunning landmarks such as palaces, mosques, museums, markets, and more. In this article, we'll explore the top tourist attractions of Istanbul Province, Turkey.

1. Hagia Sophia: Hagia Sophia, also known as Aya Sofya, is a stunning Byzantine-era structure with a rich history. It was built in the 6th century and served as a church for nearly a thousand years before being converted into a mosque. Today, it is a museum and one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. Visitors can see the intricate mosaics, marble floors, and the massive dome that stretches 56 meters high.

2. Topkapi Palace: Topkapi Palace, built in the 15th century, was the residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Today, it is a museum that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Ottoman rulers. Visitors can view the palace's courtyards, gardens, kitchens, and exhibitions that showcase the crown jewels, relics, and Ottoman artifacts.

3. Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was built in the 17th century and is one of Istanbul's most impressive landmarks. The mosque is named after its striking blue tiles that adorn the interior. Visitors can admire the mosque's six towering minarets, intricate calligraphy, and ornate mosaics.

4. Grand Bazaar: The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets. The market dates back to the 15th century and is a maze of narrow alleys lined with thousands of shops selling everything from handmade ceramics to Turkish rugs. Getting lost in the Grand Bazaar is part of the fun, and visitors can haggle with shopkeepers for the best prices.

5. Galata Tower: Galata Tower, built in the 14th century, is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. The tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the Bosporus, and the Golden Horn. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to take in the views or grab a bite to eat at the tower's restaurant.

6. Dolmabahce Palace: Dolmabahce Palace, built in the 19th century, is one of Istanbul's most impressive royal residences. The palace's lavish interiors are filled with crystal chandeliers, Persian carpets, and ornate ceilings. Visitors can tour the palace's many halls, including the grand reception hall, ceremonial hall, and the impressive palace mosque.

7. Basilica Cistern: The Basilica Cistern, built in the 6th century, is an underground aqueduct system that once supplied water to Istanbul's residents. The cistern can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water and features over 300 columns, many of which are engraved with intricate carvings. Visitors can take a stroll along the cistern's raised walkways and admire the eerie beauty of this ancient structure.

In conclusion, Istanbul Province has an overwhelming amount of tourist attractions to offer visitors. With its palaces, mosques, museums, markets, and more, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether visitors are looking to delve into history or enjoy the bustle of a thriving metropolis, Istanbul Province will not disappoint.

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.

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