Weather in Turkey in February

The weather in Turkey in February is chilly, with snow still covering much of the interior. Istanbul experiences cold rain, while Cappadocia’s landscapes offer snowclad serenity. Ski resorts like Uludağ and Kartalkaya are in full swing. The Black Sea region is damp and misty, while the Aegean coast starts to warm slightly. The Mediterranean, including Antalya, is cool but sunny, making it an excellent time for budget-friendly city breaks. Eastern Turkey remains extremely cold, perfect for winter adventure seekers. February is best for skiing, city sightseeing, and off-season tranquility.

Turkey in February at a glance

The weather in Turkey in February remains wintry, with snowfall in central and eastern regions. Ski resorts are in peak season. Coastal areas are milder and may experience some rain.

• In general, average temperatures remain low. Istanbul ranges between 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), Cappadocia is 25°F to 42°F (-4°C to 6°C), and Antalya stays at 46°F to 63°F (8°C to 17°C). The eastern provinces, such as Erzurum, experience much harsher winter conditions, often below 20°F (-7°C).
• February is great for winter sports, historic sightseeing, and visiting less crowded cultural attractions. Cappadocia, covered in snow, offers breathtaking landscapes, while Istanbul’s museums and bazaars provide cozy escapes from the cold.
• Tourist numbers are down in most destinations, making this an excellent time for budget-friendly travel with fewer crowds at top attractions. Accommodation prices stay low, except in ski resorts, which are in peak season, unlike the rest of Turkey. 
• Turkey’s off-season charm allows for a more relaxed experience, with Turkish baths (hamams) and local cuisine offering warm winter comforts.

Is February a good time to visit Turkey?

Turkey in February is still very much in the grip of winter, with cold temperatures, occasional snowfall, and shorter days. While coastal regions experience a milder climate, central and eastern parts of the country remain icy, making this an excellent month for winter activities.

Traveling in February is easy in major cities but can be challenging in rural, mountainous areas due to snow and ice. With fewer tourists, flights and accommodations are more affordable, making February the best time to visit Turkey for budget-conscious travelers.

Cappadocia’s snow-covered valleys, Istanbul’s historic charm, and warm Turkish baths offer a cozy winter experience. February is also the perfect month to explore Turkey’s rich cuisine, from hearty stews to warm street food like roasted chestnuts.

Average daily temperatures in February

February remains cold across Turkey, though temperatures begin to rise slightly. The national average high reaches 48°F (9°C), while the low hovers around 34°F (1°C). Snow continues in many regions, particularly in the interior and eastern parts.

Temperatures in Istanbul and the Marmara region are similar to January, with highs around 48°F (9°C) and lows near 37°F (3°C). Rain remains frequent, with occasional snowfall. In central Anatolia, Ankara experiences daytime highs of 41°F (5°C) and lows averaging 27°F (-3°C). Snow persists in much of the region. In eastern Anatolia, Erzurum and Kars remain extremely cold, with daytime highs of 23°F (-5°C) and nighttime lows around 3°F (-16°C). Snowfall continues to dominate.

On the coast, temperatures rise slightly, with Izmir seeing highs of 57°F (14°C) and Antalya reaching 61°F (16°C). Rain remains prevalent. Southeastern Turkey is milder than the rest of the country; temperatures in Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa range from 52°F (11°C) during the day to 37°F (3°C) at night.

What about the crowds and cost?

February remains a quiet month for tourism in Turkey, except for busy ski resorts. Cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir are far less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience at museums, palaces, and markets. If you're planning a trip to Turkey and prefer fewer tourists, this is a great time to visit.

Travel is cheaper, with discounted hotels and more affordable domestic flights. While accommodation prices at beach resorts in Bodrum and Antalya are lower, services are more limited. Ski resorts, meanwhile, continue to operate at peak prices due to high demand. If you're mapping out a Turkey itinerary, February is ideal for exploring cultural and historical sites without the crowds.

Things to do in Turkey in February

With fewer tourists and a romantic atmosphere, February is ideal for cultural and outdoor adventures. Snowy mountains and milder coastlines offer a diverse set of experiences. If you're looking for the best places to visit in Turkey this time of year, you’ll find everything from historic cities to scenic winter landscapes.

Skiing in Palandöken

With its long runs and modern facilities, Palandöken in Erzurum is a must for ski lovers. It boasts some of the best snow conditions in Turkey. The city itself has a rich history, featuring Seljuk-era medrese (schools) and mosques.

Hot-air ballooning in Cappadocia

Enjoy stunning, snow-dusted landscapes from the air in one of the world’s most iconic ballooning destinations when fewer visitors will be present. The contrast of white snow and red fairy-tale rock formations creates a mesmerizing view.

Exploring Ephesus

The lack of crowds makes wandering through the ruins of this ancient city in Turkey’s Central Aegean region a serene experience. The cool, crisp air adds to the charm, and nearby Şirince village offers delightful local wines and traditional architecture.

Thermal spa retreats in Afyon

Warm up in one of Turkey’s renowned thermal hotels, known for their healing properties and luxury treatments. Pamper yourself with traditional Turkish baths and massage therapies.

Visiting the Black Sea Coast

While the beaches are not an option, cities like Amasra and Safranbolu provide charming, historic atmospheres with traditional wooden houses and delicious seafood. The misty landscape and quiet streets make for a romantic setting.

Festivals and events in Turkey in February

Despite being a chilly month, February features several unique festivals that highlight Turkey’s rich and diverse cultural traditions.

• International Ice Climbing Festival (Erzurum): Hosted in Eastern Turkey, this event gathers climbers from all around the world to scale frozen waterfalls in Palandöken and other nearby regions.
• Kuş Cenneti Birdwatching Event (Manyas Lake): This event is a paradise for birdwatchers. It offers guided tours to observe migratory birds in their natural habitat, including flamingos and pelicans.
• Hıdırellez Fire Jumping (Various regions): While traditionally celebrated in spring, some regions in Turkey mark the beginning of good fortune by lighting bonfires and performing rituals.
• Chocolate Festival (Istanbul): Indulge in artisanal chocolates, desserts, and tastings from Turkey’s finest chocolatiers in a decadent showcase of sweet treats.