The south west of Turkey (Marmara, Aegean, and Mediterranean) has a characteristic
Mediterranean climate, consisting of hot summers and mild winters. The hottest months
are July and August with quite high humidity and temperatures around 30°C.Istanbul is
fairly similar but can be much colder in the winter with some snow.
The Black Sea region (north) has a relatively temperate climate with warm summers and
mild winters. There is also much more rain in this part of the country, and consequently
the region has much more luscious vegetation.
With the inland regions usually being at a higher altitude than the coastal regions,
there tends to be a notable difference in the climates. The extremes of Turkish weather
occur in central and eastern Anatolia with very hot and dry summers with temperatures
reaching 42°C, winters are freezing and snowy. Spring and autumn are the best times for
travelling and sightseeing in these regions.
In the farther eastern and mountainous regions, the summers are milder and the winters
harsher. Snow can lay on the ground for up to four months with temperatures as low as
-35°C. These regions are ideal for winter sports.
Coastal swimming seasons:
Marmara and north Aegean: June to September
South Aegean and Mediterranean: April to October
Black Sea: June to early September
