Weather in Turkey in September

The weather in Turkey in September is warm and pleasant, making it one of the best months to visit. Istanbul cools slightly, while Cappadocia offers ideal conditions for hiking and ballooning. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts stay hot, with sea temperatures perfect for swimming. The Black Sea remains lush and warm, while Eastern Anatolia enjoys mild weather. September is ideal for those who want summer warmth without peak-season crowds.

Turkey in September at a glance

The weather in Turkey in September transitions into late summer, bringing warm days and cooler nights. It’s one of the best months to visit, offering fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.

• Average temperatures are pleasant. Istanbul enjoys 66°F to 79°F (19°C to 26°C), Cappadocia sees 55°F to 80°F (13°C to 27°C), and Antalya remains warm at 72°F to 91°F (22°C to 33°C). Eastern Turkey starts cooling down.
• September is ideal for both beach vacations and cultural trips. Historical sites like Ephesus and Pamukkale are far more enjoyable without the peak summer heat.
• Prices drop slightly from peak season, making this an excellent time for the more budget-conscious traveler. Coastal areas remain lively but are less crowded than in July and August.

Is September a good time to visit Turkey?

September is one of the best times to visit Turkey for both beach activities and cultural sightseeing trips. Average temperatures are pleasant and great for visiting historical sites without battling the summer crowds. It’s also a great time to hike in Cappadocia or enjoy Turkey’s wine harvest season. Visiting vineyards in regions like Bozcaada and Cappadocia will add a unique charm to September travel.

For those searching for beach time, the sea remains warm enough for swimming. Coastal towns are still lively and have plenty of visitors, but they are a little less crowded. Travel is also more affordable, with prices starting to drop from their peak summer highs.

Average daily temperatures in September

September signals the beginning of fall in Turkey, with slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. In Istanbul, daytime highs drop to around 79°F (26°C), while evenings cool to a comfortable 68°F (20°C). On the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, including Izmir and Antalya, temperatures remain warm, with highs averaging 91°F (33°C) and nighttime lows around 73°F (23°C). The sea stays warm, making it an excellent time for swimming.

Ankara experiences a noticeable drop in temperature, with highs of 84°F (29°C) and lows of 61°F (16°C). Cappadocia also cools down, with daytime highs of 82°F (28°C) and nights dropping to 55°F (13°C), creating perfect conditions for hiking. The southeast, including Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa, remains hot, with temperatures still reaching 97°F (36°C) but with cooler nights at 70°F (21°C). The Black Sea region continues to be mild, with Trabzon experiencing highs of 79°F (26°C) and lows of 68°F (20°C). September offers the best summer warmth and fall comfort, making it a fantastic month for travel across Turkey.

What about the crowds and cost?

September offers a pleasant break from Turkey’s more crowded summer months, although Istanbul and Cappadocia remain busy. Visitors will still enjoy warm weather. Prices for hotels and flights start to drop below the July and August peaks. Beach destinations remain attractive with fewer visitors, and exploring the best places to visit in Turkey can become a more enjoyable and less overwhelming experience.

Nevertheless, if you're planning a trip to Turkey in September, it is still advisable to book accommodations early to avoid disappointment. With summer-like weather and moderate prices, September is an excellent month for those looking to experience Turkey without peak-season chaos.

Things to do in Turkey in September

September brings slightly cooler temperatures while maintaining the summer atmosphere. It’s a fantastic month for exploring historical sites, enjoying the coast, and experiencing Turkey’s natural beauty without masses of vacationers. Here're some of the best activities to add to your Turkey itinerary in September.

Visit the ancient city of Troy

September is an ideal time to visit the legendary city of Troy, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located on the mound of Hisarlı, overlooking the plain along the Aegean coast. Famously immortalized in Homer’s Iliad, Troy was besieged by Mycenaean warriors from Greece in the 13th century BC. A walk through its present-day ruins will lead you to a replica of the famous Trojan wooden horse used in Wolfgang Petersen’s 2004 movie of the story, where you can find information about its fascinating history.

Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kaputaş Beach

Kaputaş Beach, located between Kaş and Kalkan in southwestern Turkey, is a breathtaking cove nestled beneath dramatic cliffs with azure waters and golden sand. The warm September sea temperatures make this an excellent spot for a refreshing swim.

Visit Pergamon’s Acropolis

This ancient ruined city, perched on a hilltop – in Ancient Greek, acropolis means “city above” – features palaces, temples, including ones to Traian and Athena, walls, and a library. It also has what has become known as the “steepest ancient theater in the world” – a dramatic three-sectioned amphitheater cut into the hillside that can seat up to 10,000 people.

Discover Göbekli Tepe

This 12,000-year-old Neolithic archaeological site, considered the world’s first temple, provides an unparalleled insight into early human civilization. Its large circular structures contain giant megaliths with carvings of wild animals (serpents, foxes, boars, vultures) as well as some images representing humans. It could be their purpose was to ward off evil spirits or serve as totems.

Hike in the Kaçkar Mountains

The Kaçkar Mountains in northeastern Turkey offer some of the country’s best hiking trails. September is one of the best months to try them, with temperatures ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 68°F (20°C), perfect for hiking. Several trails crisscross the mountain range and pass through alpine meadows, remote villages, and scenic valleys. The most popular trail takes in Mount Kaçkar itself, whose summit is 12,916ft.

Festivals and events in Turkey in September

September offers several cultural, culinary, and historical events as summer fades. One to look out for is the Bozcaada Vintage Festival – a wine harvest festival featuring grape stomping, vineyard tours, and tastings on one of Turkey’s most charming Aegean islands. Another, the International İstanbul Biennial, is a major contemporary art event featuring exhibitions and installations across the city’s historic neighborhoods.