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

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Ready to pack for Istanbul, Turkey? If you're planning to go to Istanbul, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Istanbul, Turkey

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

What to wear/what to pack for Istanbul, Turkey

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Istanbul is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 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

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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 additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics 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 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

February

In February, Istanbul can be brisk. Temperatures routinely are in the high 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, 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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 neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

March

If you go to Istanbul in March, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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 additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is 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. Make sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

April

In April, Istanbul is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s 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 high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Istanbul, 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 constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

May

If you visit Istanbul during May, you might see that it is balmy. 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 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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 things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

June

June is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices 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

July

If you go to Istanbul in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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 more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online 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 be appropriate for most countries.

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

August

August in Istanbul is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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 pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you visit Istanbul during September, you are likely to 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 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 regularly.

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. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • 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

October

If you are traveling to Istanbul in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s 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. 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 some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you are traveling to Istanbul in November, you will notice that it is cool. 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:

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. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

December in Istanbul can be brisk. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Istanbul. 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
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale 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 work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Istanbul, Turkey

With its rich history and stunning architecture, Istanbul, Turkey is a top travel destination for tourists around the world. This vibrant city is full of attractions and sights to see, from old-world religious monuments to modern art galleries. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul, Turkey.

1. Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is a religious monument that has been standing in Istanbul since the 6th century. Originally built as a church, the structure was later converted into a mosque and now serves as a museum. The Hagia Sophia features stunning mosaics, intricate architecture, and a stunning dome that has been dubbed one of the greatest achievements in engineering history.

2. Blue Mosque

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. Its six towering minarets and blue-tiled interior make it a must-visit attraction. Visitors can also enjoy a peaceful stroll in the adjacent park, which offers stunning views of the mosque and the city.

3. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was once the residence of the Ottoman Empire's rulers in the 15th to 19th century. Now a museum, the palace is brimming with historical artifacts, art, and architecture. Visitors can explore ornate courtyards, the harem quarters, and several museums featuring Islamic calligraphy and Ottoman weaponry.

4. Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is considered to be one of the oldest and largest shopping centers in the world. The 15th-century marketplace has been a center of bustling trade activity for centuries, with vendors selling everything from spices, rugs, apparel, and jewelry. It's also the perfect place for tourists looking to buy souvenirs.

5. Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul's skyline. Built in the 14th century, the tower offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. Visitors can also explore the tower's interior, which houses a museum detailing the tower's significance throughout history.

6. Suleymaniye Mosque

The Suleymaniye Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Istanbul and a famous landmark in the city. Visitors can stroll in its vast courtyards or admire its intricate interior decorations. The mosque also features a stunning view of the Golden Horn.

7. Chora Church

The Chora Church, also known as Kariye Museum, is a Byzantine structure plastered with impressive mosaics and frescoes. The church was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era but is now used as a museum. Visitors can explore the church's intricate details and gaze upon gold leaf mosaics that are more than 1,000 years old.

In conclusion, Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most mesmerizing cities in the world. A tourist paradise, Istanbul boasts a rich and storied history, welcoming residents, and vibrant ambiance. A visit to Istanbul is certain to inspire, educate, and enchant visitors. Whether you're exploring religious monuments, seeking cultural diversity or enjoying local foods, Istanbul has something for everyone.

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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