Weather in Turkey in August

The weather in Turkey in August is the hottest of the year, with coastal and inland regions experiencing very high temperatures. Along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, beach destinations like Bodrum and Antalya are ideal places to visit at this time. The Black Sea region remains relatively mild, while Eastern Turkey is warm but not oppressive. August is peak tourist season, perfect for swimming and coastal adventures, but expect crowds and high prices.

Turkey in August at a glance

The weather in Turkey in August remains very hot, particularly along the coasts and in central Turkey. It’s the busiest month for tourism, with packed beaches and bustling cities.

• Average temperatures reach their highest. Istanbul ranges from 66°F to 82°F (19°C to 28°C), Cappadocia stays between 62°F and 89°F (17°C to 32°C), and Antalya sees highs of 70°F to 91°F (21°C to 33°C). Eastern Turkey remains hot but is more bearable at higher altitudes.
• August is a good time for swimming, sailing, and exploring the Turkish Riviera. To avoid the intense heat, sightseeing in major cities is best done early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Travel costs are high, with accommodations and flights at their most expensive. Coastal resorts are packed to the brim, while inland areas like Ankara and Konya are less touristy.

Is August a good time to visit Turkey?

Turkey in August remains very hot and is the perfect time for swimming, yachting, and lounging by the sea. Therefore, it will come as no surprise that this is the busiest month for beach resorts, with the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts lively with visitors. Traveling anywhere requires good hydration as well as sun protection.

Sightseeing can be challenging due to the intense heat and should be scheduled for early morning or evening. Crowds are large at tourist hotspots, and prices are at their highest. Festivals like the Troya Festival in Çanakkale and open-air concerts across the country add to the lively summer buzz.

Average daily temperatures in August

August is the height of Turkish summer, with scorching temperatures and little rain. In Istanbul, highs average around 82°F (28°C), while nights remain warm at 66°F (19°C). Humidity can make the city feel hotter, but ferryboat rides along the river offer one way to cool off. The Aegean and Mediterranean regions, including Bodrum and Antalya, experience highs of 91°F (33°C), with nighttime temperatures around 79°F (26°C). These areas are at their busiest, with tourists flocking to the beaches. The sea temperatures average an inviting 80°F (27°C).

Ankara sees temperatures of around 82°F (28°C) in the day and 66°F (19°C) at night. Cappadocia has similar highs but offers cooler mornings and nights at around 59°F (15°C). Southeastern Turkey continues to endure extreme heat, with Diyarbakır often reaching 106°F (41°C) and Şanlıurfa not far behind. Nights here are warm at 79°F (26°C). In contrast, the Black Sea coast is more moderate, with Trabzon seeing highs of 84°F (29°C) and lows of 70°F (21°C). Coastal Turkey remains the most comfortable option during August.

What about the crowds and cost?

August is the height of the tourist season in Turkey, with local and international travelers packing out the resorts. Consequently, this is one of the most expensive months to visit, with high flight and hotel prices. Along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, availability can be limited.

The best places to visit in Turkey like Ephesus and Pamukkale are crowded, with long lines. Those looking for a more affordable and peaceful trip should consider less-visited destinations like the eastern Black Sea region or the mountains of Anatolia. When planning a trip to Turkey in August, reservation accommodation early is essential to avoid inflated costs and limited options.

Things to do in Turkey in August

August is the ideal time for coastal escapes and water-based activities. The beaches and resorts are bustling with visitors, offering a host of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Here're some of the best activities to add to your Turkey itinerary in August.

Discover the white sands of Cleopatra Beach

Cleopatra Beach in Alanya is famous for its fine white sand and crystal clear waters. According to legend, Mark Antony gifted the beach to Cleopatra, and today, it remains a stunning spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Cool off in the Saklıkent Gorge

Visiting the Saklıkent Gorge is a great way to escape the summer heat. This is one of Turkey’s deepest canyons, with narrow pathways offering an exciting trekking experience through towering cliffs. Icy river waters offer the chance to cool off and freshen up before resuming the trail.

Escape to the Black Sea Highlands

Rize and Trabzon’s lush green plateaus offer cool mountain air and a refreshing break from the heat. Visitors will encounter dramatic vistas, waterfalls, rivers, historic castles, and bridges.

Explore the subway city of Derinkuyu

One of Cappadocia’s deepest subway cities at 280ft, Derinkuyu – the name means “deep well” – was carved out of the rock in ancient times and is up to 18 stories deep. Once, it could accommodate 20,000 people, with rooms for living, sleeping, storage, and even a dungeon. Exactly why this subway city was built isn’t known, but one of its purposes was probably to protect against hostile invading armies, as evidenced by the large rocks used to seal off tunnels.

Visit Lake Van’s Akdamar Island

This scenic island, surrounded by the vast tranquil blue waters of Turkey’s largest lake, houses the 10th-century Armenian Church of the Holy Cross.

Festivals and events in Turkey in August

August’s calendar is packed with cultural and sporting events, making August a great month to visit Turkey.

• International Sand Sculpture Festival (Antalya): Located on the Mediterranean coast, this festival features artists creating massive, detailed sculptures entirely out of sand.
• Van Cat Festival: Turkey’s famous white, odd-eyed Van cats are here celebrated with exhibitions, educational talks, and cat adoption events.
• Cappadocia Hot-Air Balloon Festival: This colorful spectacle sees hundreds of balloons take to the skies and float away over the famous fairytale chimney landscape, accompanied by much festive music and dining.
• International TROYA Folk Dance and Music Festival: Held in Canakkale on the Aegean Sea, this colorful festival brings together folk groups, choirs, orchestras, and majorette teams from all around the world to celebrate culture, music, and national dress.