Istanbul Province, Turkey: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Istanbul Province, Turkey? If you're planning to go to Istanbul Province, the following is 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

January in Istanbul Province can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s 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

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you vacation in Istanbul Province during February, you will probably notice that it can be very chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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.

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. Be careful to find the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

March

March for Istanbul Province is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

April

April for Istanbul Province is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 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

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

May

If you visit Istanbul Province during May, you are likely to see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

June

Traveling to Istanbul Province in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you visit Istanbul Province during July, 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.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

August

If you vacation in Istanbul Province during August, you are likely to notice 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

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

September

If you vacation in Istanbul Province during September, you may find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

October

If you vacation in Istanbul Province during October, you may find that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% 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:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

November

If you visit Istanbul Province during November, you are likely to notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

If you go to Istanbul Province in December, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Turkey has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Mountains, Alabama, United States of America, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States of America, Davis, Oklahoma, United States of America, Djibouti, Djibouti, Lleida, Spain, Canadian, Texas, United States of America, Fanø, Denmark, Yagodnoye, Russia, Newberg, Oregon, United States of America, Berne Region, Switzerland, and Santa Ana, California, United States of America.