Istanbul in summer: what to expect from June to September

Summer is Istanbul's busiest season: long, warm days, the Bosphorus at its best and the biggest crowds at the famous sights. This guide covers the heat, how to plan your days, getting out on the water and summer evenings — from our door in Sirkeci.

The weather

In July and August, daytime highs average around 28 °C and nights stay around 22 °C. Humidity is often 60–70 %, so the old city's streets can feel hotter than the thermometer says, while a breeze off the sea helps on the waterfront. June and September are warm but gentler, and rain is rare in high summer.

Planning your days

Start early: the queues at Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace build by late morning. Keep the hottest hours for places that stay cool — the Basilica Cistern underground, the Archaeological Museums, a covered bazaar — and head back out in the late afternoon. Carry water and sunscreen, and a light scarf or shawl: the dress code at mosques still applies in summer, with shoulders and knees covered.

Out on the water

Ferries are the coolest way to see the city. Bosphorus tours leave from Eminönü, a five-minute walk from the hotel, and the public ferries to Üsküdar and Kadıköy run all day. For a day on the Princes' Islands, which are largely car-free, take the T1 tram to Kabataş, the end of the line, where most island ferries leave; the crossing takes up to about two hours, so check the Şehir Hatları timetable.

Summer evenings

Days are long — in midsummer it stays light until about half past eight — so evenings are for the waterfront at Eminönü and Karaköy, a rooftop terrace or a walk across the Galata Bridge. İKSV's Istanbul Music Festival usually takes place in June and its Istanbul Jazz Festival in July; check their programmes before you travel.

Book early

Summer is the busiest time of year in the old city, so book your room early. At Hotel Marius every room has air conditioning, tea, coffee and soft drinks are complimentary, the front desk is open around the clock, and the tram and Marmaray are 50 m from the door.

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Landmarks on foot from Hotel Marius

Istanbul month by month

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