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
- Important essentials for Istanbul
- Activities for Istanbul
- Istanbul in January: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in February: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in March: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in April: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in May: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in June: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in July: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in August: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in September: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in October: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in November: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul in December: weather and what to pack
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
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These 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 suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.So your things don't get wet. The best suitcases can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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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