Istanbul Travel Forum

When is the best time to go to Istanbul? I'd like to go for a week, off peak-ish if possible.

I'd wanted to go in March but couldn't due to injury... how is early/ late September/ October?

Thank you again
L

Hi

I was in Istanbul in early September. It's a great time to travel not only for Istanbul but for all of Europe - crowds have reduced and weather is nice.

I think this year RAMAZAN starts at the end of august /september , then Istanbul in evening is great , great!!!!!

The first time I went to Istanbul was in late September 2005, off peakissh, the rush has packed up and you will enjoy it without the summer rush. The weather too is wonderful, not very warm and not too cold.

Enjoy your time.

Don't make it in September. It's the fasting month, you will not be appreciated eating food around since (unfortunately) most of the society consists of devout Muslims here. The good thing about such a time is that there will hardly be anyone around... Late September-early October could be a choice since the city would be half-empty due to the Ramadan holiday, which will be possibly extended to 9 days.

Thanks, people. I am glad a couple of you mention ramzan. If I can't make October I'll plan for March '09 which is easier for work too ... Happy travelling. L

March can still be a little blustery and with some rain. I'd choose April-May, before the tourists arrive in droves, but yet the weather has warmed up to a nice, comfortable level. I'd avoid Ramadan, just because of all the fasting, and you'd miss all the little waterside restaurants that grill up fish and mussels. True, after dusk, then these would be open, but I'd still rather have things operating at a "normal" level, rather be there during than the strictures of the fasting period.

yeap, perfect dates.. u can book tickets and room :)
ET (enjoy travel-)

yeap, perfect dates.. u can book tickets and room :)
ET (enjoy travel-)