Istanbul in December
Winter in Istanbul: expect cool weather with highs of 12°C.
Photo: Anna Berdnik / Unsplash
December Weather in Istanbul
🌡️
Average High
12°C
❄️
Average Low
8°C
🌧️
Rain Days
14.3
🌤️
Season
Winter
What to Expect
December in Istanbul brings cool weather with daytime highs around 12°C and nighttime lows of 8°C. You can expect approximately 14.3 days of rain during the month. This is off-peak season with fewer tourists. You will find lower prices and shorter queues at attractions.
Packing tip: Pack warm layers, a decent jacket, and waterproof footwear for cooler temperatures. An umbrella or rain jacket is essential.
December Costs in Istanbul
Budget
TRY 1000
per day
Mid-Range
TRY 2500
per day
Luxury
TRY 6000
per day
💡 December is off-peak, so you may find better deals on accommodation and flights.
Things to Do in Istanbul in December
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Istanbul
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Istanbul Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Istanbul on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Istanbul Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Istanbul with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Istanbul: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Istanbul's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Istanbul: Scenic Excursion
Escape Istanbul for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Istanbul Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Istanbul's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Hotels in Istanbul for December
Compare deals across thousands of hotels on Expedia.
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FAQ: Istanbul in December
What is the weather like in Istanbul in December?
Istanbul in December has average highs of 12°C and lows of 8°C, with around 14.3 rainy days. The weather is generally cool.
Is December a good time to visit Istanbul?
December is off-peak in Istanbul. While the weather may not be ideal, you will find lower prices and fewer tourists.
How crowded is Istanbul in December?
December is a quieter time in Istanbul. You will have popular attractions mostly to yourself.
How much does it cost to visit Istanbul in December?
Budget travellers can get by on around TRY 1000/day. Mid-range travellers should budget TRY 2500/day. Off-peak pricing means you may find better deals on accommodation.
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