Winter returns in the interior with snow in mountainous areas and cold nights on the high plateau; coastal areas are milder but damp. Ski centres in eastern and central Turkey are active. City sightseeing is quieter and often less expensive.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Turkey in December.
Istanbul, Bursa, Edirne
A raw north-easterly often makes December feel colder than the thermometer suggests, and when snow does come it lingers in higher neighborhoods and inland towns like Bursa, bringing a seasonal charm but occasional transport delays. Winter sales and quieter attractions make for pleasant museum visits, but bring warm layers and waterproof boots if you plan to explore the city on foot.
Izmir, Ephesus, Bodrum, Çeşme, Kuşadası
December tends to be cool, windy and damp rather than snowy along the coast, with Izmir staying relatively mild but unpredictable weather on the water. Coastal walks along the Kordon or the promontory around Çeşme are bracing and atmospheric; bring warm layers and plan indoor options because some seaside services scale back in winter.
Antalya, Kaş, Alanya, Fethiye, Side
December’s weather is cool and often rainy rather than snowy on the Riviera, though the Taurus mountains above the coast will already be frosty and may have snow. Coastal towns offer peaceful off-season exploration with lower accommodation rates; dress in warm layers and expect intermittent storms that can close small-boat trips.
Ankara, Konya, Cappadocia, Nevşehir
December often returns to a cold winter pattern with snow across the plateau and frozen mornings that polish Cappadocia’s stone formations into a stark-white landscape. Skiing is possible on nearby slopes while cave hotels provide cozy shelter; be prepared for icy roads and occasional service interruptions during heavier storms.
Trabzon, Rize, Amasra, Sinop
December reasserts the wet winter pattern, with persistent cloud, regular rain and rare snow at lower elevations but likely snow in the higher mountains inland. Travel along the winding coastal road can be slow in bad weather; waterproof gear, good boots, and a flexible schedule are advisable if touring in the off-season.
Erzurum, Kars, Doğubeyazıt, Mount Ararat approaches
December returns to harsh, snowy winter conditions with reliable snowpack at elevation and frozen mornings across towns such as Erzurum and Kars. Skiing and winter sports are in full swing at resorts like Palandöken, but overland travel is more challenging; pack full cold‑weather equipment and monitor weather advisories for safe travel.
Diyarbakır, Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, Mardin
December typically offers mild daytime temperatures and chilly nights; snow is rare on the plains but possible in higher surrounding hills. This quieter month is good for off-season cultural visits and culinary travel in Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa - bring warm layers for evenings and be prepared for intermittent wet spells.
A multi-day spiritual commemoration of Rumi in Konya, usually held in December with whirling dervishes and ceremonies.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.