Turkey Weather in December

Season: Winter

In short: Cold and wet

Turkey weather in December is cold and wet. The average monthly temperature is 2-10°C (35.6-50°C), showing clear winter climatic characteristics. In central and eastern Turkey, the temperature can drop below 0°C (32°F). Nevertheless, the southern and southwestern regions, adjacent to the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, still maintain a comparatively mild climate.

December is also the rainiest month with the highest average precipitation of 103mm of the year. Such large rainfall will have bad influence on your travel. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid destinations like Antalya, which tends to receive frequent and prolonged rainy periods.

Pasabag Valley in Cappadocia

The warmest cities in Turkey in December

Adana: 7-17°C (44.6-62.6°F); Antalya: 7-17°C (44.6-62.6°F); Izmir: 8-14°C (46.4-57.2°F)

The coldest cities in Turkey in December

Erzurum: -10--1°C (14-30.2°F); Van: -5-4°C (23-39.2°F); Konya: -2-7°C (28.4-44.6°F)

Packing Lists for a Turkey Trip in December

Southern and Southwestern Turkey: During the month, the region experiences mild climate, making long-sleeved shirts, jeans, and a cardigan perfect daytime attire. However, nights and early mornings will be cold, so you need to bring a thicker coat. Trench coat, leather jacket, or denim jacket are all good choices. For the flat terrain in this region, a pair of non-slip sneakers is sufficient. But if you prefer a more stylish look, ankle boots are also excellent options. Additionally, there is heavy rainfall in this month, so it’s necessary to pack an umbrella or rain suit.

Other Regions: The temperature in these areas will be lower, particularly during the evening and early morning hours. It is recommended to wear a warm down jacket, cotton or wool coat, with a sweater or hoodie inside. Fleece pants offer protection against chilly winds, while a pair of hiking boots will help navigate the diverse terrain of the areas. Additionally, scarves, hats, and gloves are essential accessories for maintaining warmth when temperature suddenly drops or it snows. 

Top Destinations to Visit in Turkey in December

Tourism Rate: 
Indeed, Turkey has cold and wet climate in December, which might discourage some visitors from traveling. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts of winter’s distinctive scenery and serene atmosphere, this month offers unique travel experience. Moreover, being the off season, December is more wallet-friendly. Below are a few destinations worth exploring in December, 2024:

1. Cappadocia

Cappadocia turns into a breathtaking winter wonderland in December. Imagine yourself as the protagonist of a fairy tale, and wander through the snow-capped fairy chimneys. The Goreme Open Air Museum invites you to leave your footprints in the snow, when exploring ancient churches and intricate frescoes here. Also, the Uqi Hisar Castle looks more magnificent under the snow, and you can have a breathtaking and splendid winter view of Cappadocia from its top. In addition, you can try a cup of Turkish coffee in the warm cave hotel and enjoy the rare peace of Goreme.

Uqi Hisar Castle

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Tip: If you seek an unforgettable hot air balloon ride in December, be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand, as snowfall can significantly impact the likelihood of flight. Promptly communicating with your balloon booking agency is also essential, to reschedule or adjust your plans, minimizing any inconvenience or disappointment.

2. Pamukkale 

During December, tourists don’t frequently appear in your shots. Direct your lens towards the crystal-clear calcification pools, capturing their intricate transformations under varying light conditions. Alternatively, zoom out to embrace the panoramic view of the tiered white stairs. As you turn the camera towards the ruins of Hierapolis Ancient City, you’ll discover baths, markets, arches, and amphitheaters here. Their sheer scale and grandeur will inevitably invite you to pause. Moreover, don’t miss the opportunity to relax yourself in the natural hot springs that are believed to have been visited by Egyptian Queen Cleopatra.

Pamukkale & Hot Spring

3. Konya

In Konya, you can discover the spiritual philosophy of Sufism in the Mevlana Museum; experience the blend of Eastern and Western cultures in the largest ancient Silk Road courier station; and trace the long history of Anatolia in the ruins of the Seljuk Empire (1037-1194) such as the gorgeous Aladdein Mosque. The most special experience is to feel the purification and sublimation of the spirit in the rhythm of whirling dervishes. Moreover, in order to commemorate Mevlana, the founder of Sufism, a grand prayer will be held every year in December. This is a rare opportunity for you to learn about the local culture better.

December Weather of Major Turkey Destinations

City	Temp.	Rain fall(mm)	Humi- dity(%)	Sunrise/ Sunset
Istanbul	6-11°C (42.8 - 51.8°F)	84	77	08:09-08:28 / 17:36-17:45
Ephesus	9-15°C (48.2 - 59°F)	126	73	08:07-08:26 / 17:51-18:00
Antalya	7-17°C (44.6 - 62.6°F)	251	70	07:50-08:09 / 17:40-17:50
Cappadocia	-4-8°C (24.8 - 46.4°F)	38	78	07:39-07:58 / 17:19-17:28
Pamukkale	5-12°C (41 - 53.6°F)	79	67	07:59-08:19 / 17:44-17:53
Canakkale	5-12°C (41 - 53.6°F)	93	78	08:16-08:36 / 17:49-17:58
Fethiye	7-17°C (44.6 - 62.6°F)	164	70	07:56-08:15 / 17:47-17:57
Konya	-2-7°C (28.4 - 44.6°F)	56	82	07:46-08:05 / 17:31-17:40
Pergamon	5-14°C (41 - 57.2°F)	68	73	08:10-08:30 / 17:48-17:58
Ankara	-2-7°C (28.4 - 44.6°F)	36	80	07:50-08:09 / 17:23-17:32
Trabzon	7-13°C (44.6 - 55.4°F)	76	69	07:26-07:45 / 16:53-17:02