Istanbul
ISO3:
|
I've visited ✅
Time Zone: Europe/Istanbul
"Dünya'nın kalbi burada atıyor | The heart of the world beats here"
41.0082° N, 28.9784° E
About:
Istanbul, Turkey, was founded around 660 BCE as Byzantium, an ancient Greek city. It became part of the Roman Empire in 73 CE, renamed Constantinople in 330 CE, and served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire. After the Ottoman conquest in 1453, it became the Ottoman Empire's capital. Renamed Istanbul in 1930, it remained Turkey's most populous city after Ankara became the capital in 1923. Today, Istanbul is a global city with significant historical, cultural, and economic influence.
When to visit:
The best time to visit Istanbul, Turkey for a holiday is during the spring or fall months, specifically in April, May, September, and October. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's numerous historical and cultural sites. Additionally, these months are less crowded compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more enjoyable and relaxed travel experience. Be sure to check the local events and festivals happening during your visit to make the most of your time in Istanbul.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Istanbul, Turkey during the summer months of July and August is generally considered the worst time due to the scorching heat and high humidity levels. These months attract large crowds of tourists, leading to overcrowded attractions and higher prices for accommodations. Additionally, summer is peak season for cruise ships, further adding to the congestion in popular areas. For a more enjoyable experience with milder weather and fewer crowds, it is advisable to avoid traveling to Istanbul during the peak summer months.
Winter Season (Dec-Feb)
The warmest part of the year in Istanbul, Turkey, is from June to September, known as the summer season. During this period, the average high temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The nights are generally cooler with temperatures dropping to around 18°C (64°F).
Rainfall is at its lowest during these months, with July being the driest month. The average monthly rainfall is around 20-40mm, so you can expect occasional light showers.
As for sunlight, summer days in Istanbul are long and bright, with an average of 11 to 14 hours of daylight per day. The city enjoys a fairly high amount of sunshine, especially in July and August.
Humidity levels in the summer are relatively moderate, averaging around 60-70%. This can make the heat feel a bit muggy but it's not too oppressive.
Cloudiness is minimal during the summer months. The sky is often clear or only partially cloudy, providing plenty of opportunities for sunbathing and outdoor activities.
For a visitor, a typical day in Istanbul during the warmest part of the year would likely involve warm, sunny weather with a light breeze coming from the Bosphorus. It's the perfect time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, like the Blue Mosque or the Grand Bazaar, or to take a ferry ride on the Bosphorus. However, it's also important to stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas during the peak heat of the day.
"Summer (June-August)"
The warmest part of the year in Istanbul, Turkey, is from June to September, known as the summer season. During this period, the average high temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The nights are generally cooler with temperatures dropping to around 18°C (64°F).
Rainfall is at its lowest during these months, with July being the driest month. The average monthly rainfall is around 20-40mm, so you can expect occasional light showers.
As for sunlight, summer days in Istanbul are long and bright, with an average of 11 to 14 hours of daylight per day. The city enjoys a fairly high amount of sunshine, especially in July and August.
Humidity levels in the summer are relatively moderate, averaging around 60-70%. This can make the heat feel a bit muggy but it's not too oppressive.
Cloudiness is minimal during the summer months. The sky is often clear or only partially cloudy, providing plenty of opportunities for sunbathing and outdoor activities.
For a visitor, a typical day in Istanbul during the warmest part of the year would likely involve warm, sunny weather with a light breeze coming from the Bosphorus. It's the perfect time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, like the Blue Mosque or the Grand Bazaar, or to take a ferry ride on the Bosphorus. However, it's also important to stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas during the peak heat of the day.
Language:
turkish
Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, predominantly speaks Turkish, which is the official language of the country. Minority languages spoken include Kurdish and Arabic due to the diverse ethnic groups residing in the city. Additionally, English is widely taught in schools and used in business, making it a commonly understood language. Other foreign languages such as German and French are also spoken, albeit less commonly.