❄ 10 Places to Visit in Turkey in Winter (2024)

Updated: November 13, 2024

Traveling to Turkey in winter is truly special. From the enchanting streets of Istanbul to the snow-covered landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey has incredible and unique destinations to explore during the colder months.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best places to visit in Turkey during winter, each with its own charm and plenty of activities to enjoy. Plus, you’ll avoid the crowds and save money while you’re at it.

Table of Contents

What to Do in Turkey in Winter

1. Istanbul

Istanbul in winter is captivating, with fewer tourists and a mysterious charm. If you visit Istanbul during this time, you’ll have plenty to see and do.

The Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are absolute must-sees, and in winter, they look like something out of a fairytale. You can join this mosque tour so you don’t miss any details.

Afterward, take your time strolling through the Grand Bazaar—one of the best free things to do in Istanbul—without the hustle and bustle of summer crowds.

There’s nothing better than warming up in a hammam in Istanbul during winter. I recommend the Acemoglu Hammam, with historic baths dating back to the 15th century. It’s one of the best hammams in Istanbul and the perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing.

New Year’s Eve in Istanbul is an exciting experience, with celebrations across the city, ranging from special dinners to fireworks. You can even take this night cruise along the Bosphorus, complete with a dinner and show—a truly memorable experience.

Keep in mind that Christmas isn’t widely celebrated in Turkey, as it’s a secular country with a majority Muslim population. That said, you might come across some tourist-oriented celebrations. But when it comes to New Year’s, the festive decorations and lights bring a wonderful holiday atmosphere. 🤩

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2. Cappadocia

Cappadocia in winter is nothing short of magical. The fairy chimneys dusted with snow create a dreamlike landscape that will take your breath away.

If the weather cooperates, this hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia is a must. The UNESCO-listed- landscapes of Goreme look stunning, with snow-covered rock formations adding to the beauty. Winter is also a more affordable time for balloon rides, making it a great choice if you’re planning a budget-friendly trip to Turkey.

Another highlight in Cappadocia is exploring the underground cities. These ancient sites let you step back in time and are ideal for colder days when being underground is a cozy option.

To get to Cappadocia from Istanbul , you can fly or take a bus.

Once you’re there, renting a car is the easiest way to explore (👈 that site has great prices), or you can join this full-day Cappadocia tour.

There are also affordable all-inclusive Turkey tours that cover Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale, which might be a good option if you want to see multiple destinations.

3. Uludag

If you’re looking to ski in Turkey, Uludag is the top spot. This mountain resort near Bursa is well-known for its ski slopes and winter activities. Whether you love skiing or snowboarding, it’s the perfect place for a snowy adventure.

To get there from Istanbul, you can take a bus to Bursa, which takes at least three hours. You can check schedules, prices, and book tickets through that link. After reaching Bursa, you’ll need to take another bus to Uludag, and then a cable car will bring you to the ski center.

That said, the most convenient option is this day trip to Bursa and Uladag. You’ll get to enjoy the beautiful snowy landscapes and experience the cable car ride without the hassle of planning it all yourself.

4. Pamukkale

Pamukkale is another amazing destination to visit in Turkey during winter. The white travertine terraces look breathtaking in this season, and the hot springs remain warm despite the chilly weather.

But I’ll be honest—swimming in the natural pools of the Cotton Castle might not feel so tempting in winter, especially since the water doesn’t cover you fully. Instead, I recommend a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, one of the highlights of Pamukkale.

Here, you can unwind while soaking in the views. The contrast between the warm hot springs and the cold air makes it even more magical during winter. It’s definitely a must-visit for any Turkey itinerary.

The quickest way to get to Pamukkale from Istanbul is by flying to Denizli, then taking a taxi to Pamukkale.

5. Ephesus

Ephesus is one of the most significant ancient cities in the Mediterranean and a must-see if you’re interested in Turkish history. Visiting the ruins in winter is a great experience—you’ll skip the summer heat and the crowds. Don’t miss highlights like the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus, both incredible treasures of antiquity.

The fastest way to get to Ephesus from Istanbul is to fly to Izmir. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Selçuk, the nearby town where Ephesus is located.

6. Lake Abant

Lake Abant, in the Bolu region, is perfect for a peaceful winter getaway. When covered in snow, the lake and its surroundings look absolutely magical. It’s a great spot for hiking or just soaking in the serene winter scenery.

The easiest way to get to Lake Abant is by renting a car, giving you the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. To rent a car in Istanbul, I recommend this website with the most competitive prices from trustworthy local companies.

If you prefer not to drive, you can take a bus to Bolu and then hop on a taxi or minibus to reach the lake.

7. Mount Ararat

If you’re up for an adventure, Mount Ararat is the ultimate challenge. As the highest mountain in Turkey, it offers an unforgettable experience for experienced mountaineers. Winter climbs are possible, but they’re best suited for those with proper skills. On clear days, the view from the summit is absolutely stunning, especially with the winter snow.

The easiest way to get there is by flying from Istanbul to Igdır or Van, both about two hours away. Van usually has more flight options and lower prices, but it’s farther from Mount Ararat. You can check flight schedules and prices for your travel dates through those links. Once you arrive, you’ll need to arrange transport to Doğubayazıt, the closest town to the mountain.

8. Safranbolu

Safranbolu is a charming historic town that feels like an open-air museum. Its well-preserved Ottoman houses have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, making it an ideal destination for history and architecture lovers. In winter, the cobblestone streets and snow-dusted rooftops create a truly magical atmosphere.

If you visit Safranbolu, you can also take a short trip to Keltepe, just under an hour away, for some skiing.

The town is about a 5.5-hour bus ride from Istanbul, but driving there is another good option if you prefer.

9. Erzurum

Erzurum is famous for its Palandoken ski resort, one of the best places for skiing in Turkey. The wide slopes and excellent winter conditions make it a top choice for snow enthusiasts. While you’re there, don’t miss exploring some of Erzurum’s historic landmarks, like the Cifte Minareli Madressa.

The fastest way to reach Palandoken is by flying from Istanbul to Erzurum, followed by a quick taxi ride from the airport to the ski resort.

10. Antalya

Antalya may be a summer hotspot, but it’s just as lovely in winter—only quieter. You can wander through the old town of Kaleici or visit nearby attractions like the Roman theater of Aspendos. Winter is also an excellent time to hike the Lycian Way, with fewer crowds and cooler weather.

If you’re not a fan of freezing temperatures, Antalya is perfect since it’s the warmest region in Turkey during winter.

The most convenient way to get there is by taking a direct flight from Istanbul, which lasts just over an hour. If you book ahead, you’ll find very affordable ticket prices.

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Map of Turkey Winter Destinations

Final Thoughts

Turkey in winter offers so much variety—from skiing in Uludag and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia to relaxing in a traditional hammam in Istanbul. With fewer tourists and a peaceful vibe, it’s a great time to enjoy Istanbul’s must-see spots and explore the country’s stunning destinations from a fresh perspective.

In this travel guide to Turkey you can continue reading all my posts about this incredible destination.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘

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Andrea Rodriguez

Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.