Weather in Turkey in July

The weather in Turkey in July is hot and dry, especially in inland and coastal areas where it can get very hot indeed. The Mediterranean and Aegean coasts see peak summer temperatures and warm seas, perfect for swimming or lounging on the beach. The Black Sea coast stays mild, with occasional rain. Eastern Anatolia is hot but still pleasant for sightseeing. July is best for beach lovers, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife along the coast.

Turkey in July at a glance

The weather in Turkey in July is at its hottest, with long sunny days and little rainfall. It’s peak season for beach vacations, while inland areas can be scorching.

• Average temperatures soar. Istanbul ranges from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), Cappadocia reaches 60°F to 88°F (16°C to 31°C), and Antalya gets hot at 75°F to 97°F (24°C to 36°C). Eastern Turkey warms up but remains cooler in the mountains.
• July is great for coastal getaways, island-hopping, and yachting along the Aegean and Mediterranean. However, city sightseeing can be challenging due to the heat, especially in places like Ephesus.
• Prices are at their highest, and popular destinations like Bodrum, Antalya, and Fethiye are crowded. For beach resorts, reservation accommodations in advance is a must.
• Cultural festivals like the Istanbul Jazz Festival and the International Opera and Ballet Festival in Aspendos make a lively addition to Turkey’s summer.

Is July a good time to visit Turkey?

Turkey in July is hot and sunny. Temperatures reach their annual peak, with Istanbul at 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), Cappadocia at 60°F to 88°F (16°C to 31°C), and Antalya soaring to 75°F to 97°F (24°C to 36°C). Eastern Turkey remains cooler at higher altitudes in the mountains.

Inland areas and cities can be uncomfortably hot, making extensive sightseeing hard work. Visiting cultural attractions like Ephesus and Pergamon is best done early in the morning or late in the evening. However, July is perfect for coastal escapes, with pristine beaches and plenty of nightlife in resorts like Bodrum and Antalya.

Prices are high, though, and the best places to visit in Turkey will be crowded. The International Opera and Ballet Festival in Aspendos offers a unique cultural experience under the stars.

Average daily temperatures in July

July in Turkey marks the height of summer, bringing hot and dry conditions across much of the country. In Istanbul, the average high temperature is 84°F (29°C), while nights cool down to around 70°F (21°C). The heat can be intense, but sea breezes offer some relief along the Bosphorus.

On the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, including Izmir, Bodrum, and Antalya, daytime highs often reach 95°F (35°C) and above, with lows around 77°F (25°C). These regions experience minimal rainfall, making them ideal for beachgoers. The Turquoise Coast, particularly Fethiye and Kaş, sees similar temperatures, with the sea on hand to provide a refreshing swim.

Inland, Ankara has highs of about 91°F (33°C) and nighttime lows around 64°F (18°C), while Cappadocia experiences highs of 90°F (32°C) but significantly cooler nights at 57°F (14°C), making early mornings pleasant for hot-air ballooning.

Southeastern Turkey, including Diyarbakır and Şanlıurfa, endures extreme heat, with daytime temperatures exceeding 104°F (40°C). Nights remain warm at around 77°F (25°C). The Black Sea region, including Trabzon, remains milder, with highs near 82°F (28°C) and lows around 68°F (20°C), thanks to coastal humidity and breezes.

What about the crowds and cost?

July is one of Turkey's busiest months for tourism, with domestic and international travelers flocking to beaches and resorts. Antalya, Bodrum, and Çeşme are packed, while Cappadocia and Istanbul also experience high visitor numbers. If you're wondering about the best time to visit Turkey, keep in mind that July offers great weather but also peak crowds and prices.

Prices for flights, hotels, and excursions are at their peak, meaning that last-minute reservations can be expensive. Beach resorts are buzzing with activity, so securing accommodations in advance is essential. Travelers seeking quieter experiences should consider less-visited regions like the Black Sea coast or eastern Anatolia. If you're planning a trip to Turkey and want a mix of nightlife and beach time, July is ideal — just be prepared for the crowds and higher costs.

Things to do in Turkey in July

July’s hot temperatures and long days make this the perfect time for outdoor adventures and exploring hidden coastal gems. Here're some of the best activities to add to your Turkey itinerary in July.

Relax on Patara Beach

Patara Beach is one of Turkey’s longest and most beautiful stretches of sand and offers a peaceful escape with golden dunes and turquoise waters. It’s a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.

Explore the sunken city of Kekova

Take a boat tour to Kekova, where you can see the ruins of an ancient Lycian city submerged beneath the crystal-clear waters. Kayaking over the ruins provides a closer look at the partially visible streets and foundations.

Experience the beauty of Butterfly Valley

Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, Butterfly Valley near Fethiye is a hidden paradise surrounded by steep cliffs. Visitors can swim in the lagoon, explore waterfalls, and spot rare butterflies in this tranquil setting.

Go white-water rafting on the Dalaman River

For an adrenaline-filled adventure, head to the Dalaman River for white-water rafting. The rapids provide an exciting ride through lush canyons, making this a perfect activity for thrill-seekers.

Swim in the Cleopatra Pools

Located near Pamukkale, these ancient thermal pools allow you to swim among submerged Roman columns. The warm, mineral-rich water is soothing even on hot days.

Festivals and events in Turkey in July

July brings the height of summer and a lively festival atmosphere across the country.

• International Bodrum Ballet Festival: This event features performances from prestigious ballet companies and takes place in an open-air castle overlooking the Aegean.
• Manavgat Waterfall Festival: A celebration of nature with boat tours, food stalls, and performances near the stunning Manavgat Waterfall.
• Van Lake Swimming Marathon: Swimmers from around the world participate in this race across Turkey’s largest lake, set against a backdrop of mountain scenery.
• Kite Festival (Gökçeada): A colorful summer event where children and adults fly elaborate kites over Turkey’s largest island.