Weather in Turkey in March

The weather in Turkey in March is starting to feel springlike, although a definite chill lingers in some areas. Istanbul and Cappadocia see temperatures rise, with occasional rain. To the west, the Aegean coast begins to bloom, making this an opportune time to visit Ephesus or Pamukkale without large crowds. To the south, the Mediterranean coast warms a bit, but the sea is still too cold for swimming. Eastern Turkey, however, is still very much in winter’s grip, with snow lingering. March is ideal for cultural exploration but also suitable for early spring landscapes, especially in central and western Turkey.

Turkey in March at a glance

In March, Turkey transitions to spring, with milder temperatures in the west and south, while central and eastern Turkey remain cool. Rain is frequent, but landscapes become greener.

• Average temperatures vary. Istanbul sees 44°F to 55°F (7°C to 13°C), Cappadocia stays at 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C), while Antalya is warmer at 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). Eastern Turkey remains cold, often below 32°F (0°C).
• March is good for cultural and historical sightseeing, as the weather improves and crowds are still minimal. Cappadocia’s spring blossoms start appearing, and Istanbul’s parks show early signs of greenery.
• Travel costs remain low, with cheaper accommodations and flights. Attractions like Ephesus and Pamukkale are still relatively quiet before the peak season begins in April.
• The arrival of spring means hiking in regions like the Lycian Way and the Kaçkar Mountains becomes possible, though higher elevations still have snow.

Is March a good time to visit Turkey?

Turkey in March begins its transition from winter into spring, with milder days, longer daylight hours, and blooming landscapes. Snow lingers in eastern Turkey, but the western and southern coasts become more inviting. While early March can still be cold, overall temperatures start to rise.

With gradually more pleasant weather and fewer tourists making it easier to get around, March is an excellent time for exploring the best places to visit in Turkey like Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Troy. Hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia are stunning in the crisp spring air.

Spring festivals, like the Nevruz celebrations marking the Persian New Year, bring exciting and lively cultural experiences. Hiking trails in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions have started to open up, offering scenic coastal walks and fresh greenery.

Average daily temperatures in March

March marks the beginning of spring in Turkey, with temperatures beginning to rise. The national average high is 54°F (12°C), while the low remains around 39°F (4°C). Snow starts melting in many areas, though higher elevations remain cold.

Istanbul and the Marmara region experience highs of 54°F (12°C) and lows of 41°F (5°C). Rain showers are frequent, but temperatures become more comfortable. In central Anatolia, Ankara warms up slightly, with highs around 50°F (10°C) and lows near 32°F (0°C). Snow transitions into rain by mid-month. In eastern Anatolia, it’s still cold; Erzurum and Kars see daytime highs of 30°F (-1°C) and nighttime lows averaging 10°F (-12°C). Snowfall lingers in the mountains.

Warmer coastal areas like Izmir and Antalya enjoy highs of 61°F (16°C) and lows of 45°F (7°C). Rainfall decreases slightly. Southeastern Turkey experiences milder conditions, with Gaziantep reaching 57°F (14°C) and Şanlıurfa experiencing lows of 43°F (6°C).

What about the crowds and cost?

With spring kicking, March brings slightly more visitors, especially toward the end of the month. Cappadocia starts welcoming travelers eager for hot-air balloon rides, while Istanbul and Ephesus become busier.

Prices for hotels and flights remain affordable but start to rise. Ski resorts begin to wind down, offering some late-season discounts. While major cities and tourist sites are still not too crowded, when planning a trip to Turkey in March, it's better to book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates before peak season gets underway. March is great for those who want to explore Turkey at a reasonable cost with mild weather.

Things to do in Turkey in March

March is the best time to visit Turkey, especially if you’re a nature lover or a history buff. When the country begins to thaw, festivals and outdoor activities add charm to any Turkey itinerary.

Trekking the Lycian Way

The cooler weather makes hiking through southern Turkey's coastal cliffs and ancient ruins a more pleasant experience. The route passes through stunning landscapes, encompassing golden beaches, turquoise sea views, and rugged mountain trails. It can be done in one go over a month or in week- or day-long sections.

Visiting Troy and Çanakkale

March is the perfect time to explore the legendary city of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site abandoned between 1100 and 700 BC after the Trojan War. The adjacent modern-day city of Canakkale is home to the Museum of Troy and features a replica of the Trojan Horse featured in Wolfgang Petersen’s 2004 epic film of the story. Not far away lies the historic Gallipoli Peninsula, the site of the more recent battle in World War I.

Birdwatching in the Göksu Delta

The Göksu Delta is one of Turkey’s top wetland areas, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Here, you can witness the arrival of thousands of migratory birds like flamingos, pelicans, and herons.

Enjoying Istanbul’s Tulip Festival

While the official festival starts in April, tulips are already starting to bloom in Istanbul’s parks, bringing color and beauty. Emirgan Park and Gülhane Park transform into vibrant yards.

Exploring Nemrut Dağı

The weather in Turkey in March is perfect for hiking up Mount Nemrut before the summer heat sets in. Here you will find the colossal stone head statues perched atop. Watching the sunrise over them is an unforgettable experience.

Festivals and events in Turkey in March

As winter transitions into spring, several cultural and nature-related celebrations take place.

• Nevruz (Nationwide, especially in Diyarbakır & Van): This ancient festival celebrates the arrival of spring with bonfires, dancing, and feasts, particularly in eastern Turkey.
• Troy Culture and Art Festival (Çanakkale): Celebrating the rich history of Troy, this festival includes theatrical performances, art exhibitions, and guided historical tours.
• Cherry Blossom Viewing (Bursa & Istanbul): While not an official festival, March is the time when cherry blossoms start blooming in Turkey’s parks, particularly in Emirgan Park in Istanbul.