Turkey in August: What to Expect from the Weather & Where to Visit

Ömer Faruk Kino
Content Editor
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August, one of the most popular times of the year to visit Turkey, is when temperatures peak and it is the best time for a beach holiday. During this month, when the sun shines brightest, Turkey offers a whole range of different experiences across the country. However, one of the most important things to know when planning a visit to Turkey in August is the weather. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, including temperatures, humidity levels, regional differences and ideal holiday itineraries. So, what's the weather like in Turkey in August? And what to do in Turkey in August? Let's explore together 👇

How is the Weather Like in Turkey in August: What to Expect

The climatic conditions prevailing throughout Turkey in August represent the hottest and driest period of the summer season. This month is characterised by intense sunlight throughout the day, almost no rainfall, and humidity that is particularly noticeable in coastal areas. Average temperatures typically range between 25°C and 35°C; in some inland regions and the south, this figure can reach up to 40°C.

🔥 Daytime temperatures:

  • 30–34°C along the Marmara and Black Sea coasts,

  • 34–38°C along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts,

  • and up to 35–42°C in Central Anatolia and Southeastern Anatolia.

🌙 Nighttime temperatures:

  • Temperatures drop slightly at night. Cooling can be felt in the interior and eastern regions (especially in high-altitude cities), but along the coast, temperatures remain around 23–26°C. Humidity is high throughout the day in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions; in Istanbul, it can reach oppressive levels at times.

Regional Distribution of Turkey's August Weather

In a country like Turkey, surrounded by seas on three sides and home to different climate types, it is very important to take regional weather differences into account when planning a trip in August. The answer to the question ‘Where to go in Turkey in August?’ depends not only on the temperature map, but also on the natural, cultural and gastronomic potential of the region. Here is a comprehensive and detailed assessment of the weather conditions and ideal holiday routes in different regions of Turkey in August:

Marmara Region – Istanbul, Edirne, Tekirdağ, Bursa, Balıkesir

Climate & Weather:

In August, the Marmara Region is generally hot and humid. Temperatures in Istanbul range between 28–32 °C. Humidity can exceed 70% on some days. Cool evenings with light breezes are possible around the Marmara Sea. Although short summer showers occur from time to time, sunny days are the norm.

Where to Go, What to Do?

  • Istanbul: Historical peninsula tour (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, Grand Bazaar), Bosphorus boat tours, Princes' Islands bike tours, kumpir (baked potato) in Ortaköy, open-air cafes in Galataport.

  • Bursa: Summer walks in Uludağ, traditional architecture tour in Cumalıkızık village, İskender kebab break.

  • Tekirdağ & Şarköy: Swimming on the tranquil shores of the Marmara Sea, windsurfing, strolls through vineyards, and preparing for the grape harvest.

Food and Drink Recommendations:

Istanbul fish sandwich, fried mussels; Bursa chestnut candy, cantık; Edirne fried liver and almond paste.

Extra Idea:  

Some historical villages in the Marmara region (Trilye, Gölyazı, Cumalıkızık) offer both the coolness of summer and cultural depth. They are ideal for day trips.

Aegean Region – Izmir, Mugla, Aydin, Manisa, Uşak

Climate & Weather:

The Aegean Region is one of Turkey's most popular holiday destinations in the summer months. In August, temperatures can reach 34–38°C, especially in coastal cities. While the days are quite hot and dry, the cool sea breezes characteristic of the Aegean provide relief in the evenings. Sea water temperatures range from 27–29 °C.

Where to Go, What to Do?

  • Bodrum: Enjoy the beach during the day (Göltürkbükü, Bitez), the bar street at night, Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum.

  • Çeşme & Alaçatı: Photo breaks in the streets of Alaçatı, windsurfing activities, and mastic ice cream.

  • Kuşadası: Nature walks in Dilek Peninsula National Park, tour of the ancient city of Ephesus, visit to the House of the Virgin Mary.

  • Foça & Ayvalık: More peaceful, authentic coastal towns. Sunset in Cunda, boat trip around the bays.

Food and Drink Recommendations:

In Alaçatı, you must try olive oil dishes made with Aegean herbs, octopus prepared in the Midilli style, Ayvalık toast, stuffed artichokes, and black mulberry syrup.

Extra Idea:

Staying in boutique hotels in the Aegean, tasting wine in vineyard houses, and exploring local markets will turn your summer holiday into a cultural discovery.

Mediterranean Region – Antalya, Mersin, Adana, Isparta

Climate & Weather:

The Mediterranean Region is one of the hottest regions in Turkey during the summer. Temperatures can reach 36–40 °C in August, especially in coastal cities such as Antalya, Alanya and Kaş. However, with sea breezes and humidity, the oppressive heat is felt more intensely in inland areas. The waters of the Mediterranean are at their warmest and clearest during this period.

Where to Go, What to Do?

  • Antalya: Kaleiçi tour, cooling off at Konyaaltı Beach, visit to Antalya Aquarium, Termessos Ancient City.

  • Kaş & Kalkan: Boat tour of the sunken city of Kekova, sunset on the beach, diving centre explorations.

  • Fethiye: Paragliding in Ölüdeniz, nature walks in Butterfly Valley, a cool getaway in Saklıkent Canyon.

  • Adana & Mersin: Hot but unique in terms of gastronomy. Historical Taşköprü, Adana museums, tantuni stops.

Food and Drink Recommendations:

Adana kebab, bici bici dessert, tantuni, stuffed zucchini flowers with olive oil, pomegranate-flavoured Gavurdağı salad.

Extra Tip:

Open-air concerts, Yörük festivals, and theatre events held around Antalya in August add cultural colour to your holiday.

Central Anatolia Region – Ankara, Cappadocia, Konya, Kayseri

Climate & Weather:

Central Anatolia is characterised by hot and dry weather conditions in August. Daytime temperatures range from 30–35 °C, while nighttime temperatures are around 15–20 °C. Humidity is quite low, making the heat more tolerable. The sunny and clear skies are ideal, especially for photographers.

Where to Go, What to Do?

  • Cappadocia: Morning balloon tours, nature walks in Paşabağ and Zelve, underground cities (Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı), vineyard tours.

  • Ankara: Atatürk Forest Farm, Anıtkabir, Ethnography Museum.

  • Konya: Mevlana Tomb, Sille Village, Alaeddin Hill.

  • Kayseri: Summer hikes at the foot of Mount Erciyes, mantı break, exploring the streets of Talas.

Food and Drink Recommendations:

Kayseri mantı, Ankara tavası, Konya meat bread, cheese between bazlama bread, Cappadocia wines, and homemade grape juice.

Extra Idea:

Staying in cave hotels in Cappadocia and watching an open-air cinema under the stars is a romantic summer experience.

Southeastern Anatolia Region – Şanlıurfa, Mardin, Gaziantep, Diyarbakır

Climate & Weather:

It is one of the hottest and driest regions of Turkey. In August, temperatures can reach 42–45 °C during the day. Trips should be planned for early morning or sunset hours. However, this region is one of Turkey's richest in terms of culture, religion and gastronomy.

Where to Go, What to Do?

  • Mardin: Stone houses, Mor Gabriel Monastery, Artuklu architecture.

  • Şanlıurfa: Balıklıgöl, Göbekli Tepe, the cave where Prophet Abraham was born.  

  • Gaziantep: Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Copper Market, gastronomic tours.  

  • Diyarbakır: Walls, Hevsel Gardens, coffee break at Hasanpaşa Han.

Food and Drink Recommendations:

Küşleme, liver kebab, baklava, katmer, stuffed meatballs, pomegranate-flavoured dolma.

Extra Tip:

Gastronomy tours with a local guide and evening meals at boutique hotels with stone courtyards offer an unforgettable experience.

Eastern Anatolia and Eastern Black Sea – Erzurum, Van, Rize, Artvin, Kars

Climate & Weather:

Due to the high altitude in these regions, it feels cool even in August. In places such as Erzurum and Kars, daytime temperatures range between 20–28 °C, while nighttime temperatures drop to 10–15 °C. The mountainous areas of the Eastern Black Sea attract holidaymakers with their lush greenery, misty plateaus and cool breezes.

Where to Go, What to Do?

  • Rize & Artvin: Nature walks, rafting and ziplining in Ayder, Pokut and Gito Plateau.

  • Erzurum: Tortum Waterfall, Palandöken plateau activities, Erzurum houses.

  • Van: Swimming in Lake Van, Akdamar Island tour, Van breakfast.

  • Kars: Ani Ruins, Boğatepe Cheese Museum, summer tours around Lake Çıldır.

Food and Drink Recommendations:

Mıhlama, kuymak, highland soup, Van herb cheese, Kars gravy cheese, kete, and plenty of tea.

Extra Idea:

Traditional highland festivals, horon dances, and local music nights in the Eastern Black Sea highlands bring nature and culture together.

What to Do in Turkey in August? Experience and Activity Recommendations

August in Turkey is not only hot, but also rich in cultural and natural events. To make your holiday more meaningful, you can consider the following activities:

  • Visit historical and archaeological sites early in the morning.

  • Take evening walks along the coast or plan a dinner by the sea.

  • Explore isolated coves with boat tours.

  • Morning coolness is ideal for nature walks (Cappadocia, Kaçkar Mountains, Lycian Way).

  • Participate in local festivals and fairs by checking the calendar.

  • Covered markets, museums, and shaded areas can be enjoyed during the daytime heat.

Food & Drink Recommendations: What to Eat and Drink in Turkey in August?

The richness of summer is reflected on the tables. In August, you will encounter many refreshing and regional delicacies in Turkey.

  • Aegean Region: Olive oil dishes, stuffed zucchini flowers, broad bean salad

  • Mediterranean: Grilled fish, rocket salad, watermelon and cheese

  • Eastern & Southeastern: Adana kebab, stuffed meatballs, cold ayran soup

  • Cappadocia: Testi kebab, fresh fruits from vineyards

  • Marmara: Stuffed mussels, chickpea pilaf, fish sandwich

Drinking plenty of water is very important. In addition:

  • Ayran (refreshing and mineral-rich),

  • Lemonade, tamarind syrup, cold Turkish tea and other local beverages can also be preferred.

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