July is considered the peak of the summer season in Turkey. It is one of the most preferred periods for both local and foreign tourists with the burning light of the sun, hot sands, cooling seas and lively holiday resorts. If you are planning a holiday in July in Turkey, this article is for you. You can find everything you need here, from weather conditions to suggestions by region, from activities to do to practical tips.
Weather in Turkey in July: Where to Visit and What to Do?
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What is the weather in July in Turkey?
July is the hottest and driest month of the year in Turkey. While daytime temperatures in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions often exceed 35 degrees, thermometers in Southeastern Anatolia easily show 40 degrees. Nevertheless, sea breezes make the hot weather more bearable along the coastline.
Night temperatures usually hover between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, which makes for a comfortable sleep, especially in coastal areas. Precipitation is almost non-existent, with only occasional showers in humid regions such as the Black Sea. Sea water temperatures are around 28 degrees in Antalya and 26-27 degrees on the Aegean coast.
July in each region of Turkey
The weather in Turkey in July varies greatly by region. While the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts experience ideal temperatures for sea holidays, drier and cooler nights prevail in Central Anatolia and Eastern regions. Istanbul and the Black Sea offer a balanced climate for those seeking both culture and nature. Let's see where to go to Turkey in July!
Mediterranean and Aegean: Enjoying a Holiday in the Heat
Coastal cities such as Antalya, Bodrum and Fethiye experience a real tourism boom in July. Calm beaches in the morning become crowded in the afternoon. While daytime temperatures vary between 32-38 degrees, the sea water is almost as hot as a thermal pool. The sun is in the sky for almost 14-15 hours a day. Sun cream, a hat and plenty of water are the trio you should keep with you during this period.
Konyaaltı and Lara Beach in Antalya attract attention with their proximity to the city centre and their facilities, while Gümüşlük and Camel Beach in Bodrum fascinate with their sunset views. The turquoise colour of Fethiye's Ölüdeniz offers not only swimming but also the pleasure of watching from the sky with paragliding.
Cappadocia and Central Anatolia: Hot by Day, Cool by Night
Central Anatolia's summer heat is dry and scorching, so trips should be made in the early morning or late afternoon. Cappadocia is the best time of the year for balloon tours. Hot air balloons rising to the sky at sunrise offer unforgettable views of the Fairy Chimneys. Historical textures in regions such as Göreme, Ürgüp and Zelve can be explored in the cool of the morning.
Cities such as Ankara are suitable for open-air concerts, park activities and museum visits. Especially Anıtkabir and the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations are indispensable for cultural tours.
Marmara and Black Sea: Mild Weather, Rich Culture
Although July in Istanbul is quite hot, the winds along the coastline and around the Bosphorus cool the city a little. The ideal plan is to visit the city's historical sites in the morning and take a Bosphorus tour or a getaway to the islands in the afternoon. In the evenings, Istanbul's cultural energy reaches its peak with concerts, theatres and festivals.
The weather changes as you move towards the Black Sea. Temperatures are lower and humidity is high in provinces such as Rize, Artvin and Trabzon. During this period, the plateaus are lush green; nature walks and camping are popular on routes such as Ayder, Pokut, and Gito. However, it is necessary to be prepared for sudden rainfall; waterproof clothes and shoes are important.
East and Southeast: Contrasting Climates
July is scorching in cities like Adana. Due to temperatures exceeding 40 degrees during the day, life shifts more to the morning and night hours. Nevertheless, this region is very rich in terms of gastronomy tourism. Local delicacies such as Adana kebab and bici bici are served on the streets even in the early hours of the morning.
On the other hand, high altitude regions such as Erzurum and Van offer mild weather between 25-28 degrees during the day, while it can be cool or even chilly at night. July is the best month for camping around Lake Van, visiting Akdamar Island and taking walks in nature.
What to do in Turkey in July?
Turkey is one of the rare countries that can experience all four seasons together in July. This makes the holiday options quite diversified.
Beach Holidays & Water Sports:
Antalya, Bodrum, Çeşme and Fethiye are the most suitable destinations for water sports such as swimming, diving, sailing, parasailing and canoeing. Especially Kaş and Ayvalık stand out in terms of diving tourism.
Nature Walks & Camping:
The Black Sea plateaus, Lycian Way, Ida Mountains and Kaçkar Mountains offer magnificent views for nature lovers. Day hikes or multi-day trekking routes can be done in the cool mornings of July.
Cultural Sightseeing & History:
Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern in Istanbul; Ephesus Ancient City and Pergamon around Izmir; Pamukkale and Hierapolis in Denizli are very popular in July. Going early in the morning reduces both the crowds and the heat.
Festivals & Events:
July is the season for outdoor events in Turkey. Istanbul Music Festival, Bozcaada Jazz Festival, Bodrum Ballet Festival and Ankara Open Air Concerts host thousands of participants every year.
Gastronomy Tours:
Cities such as Hatay, Gaziantep, Adana and Urfa stand out with their cuisine. However, great attention should be paid to hygiene during open-air meals in July.
Practical Advice for Holiday
Sunscreen is a must: Reapply sunscreen with SPF 50+ protection several times a day.
Drink Plenty of Water: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day against heat stroke; buttermilk, lemonade and mineral water are recommended.
Dress Lightly: Choose breathable cotton or linen clothes. A thin cardigan may be required in some areas in the evenings.
Shade Hours: Rest in the shade during lunch hours (11:00-16:00), wear a hat and goggles if you need to be outside.
Early Bookings: Hotel and flight tickets sell out quickly in July. It is difficult to find last-minute opportunities, especially in places such as Antalya, Bodrum, and Çeşme.