Visiting Turkey in September: The Best Places to See and Things to Do

Here’s everything to know about planning a wonderful trip to Turkey in September including the weather, places to visit and things to do.

Turkey is home to an assortment of captivating historic sites, lively cities, and natural wonders. The country straddles two continents and is made up of a myriad of different terrains, climates, and series of things to see and do.

To experience Turkey to its fullest potential, it’s recommended to plan on spending time outdoors.

Summertime may sound like the logical time to travel to Turkey, but this would be a rookie mistake. Once again, shoulder season proves to be the ideal time to travel.

In this guide, discover why September in Turkey is the best time to see the country’s top destinations and why you shouldn’t choose any other month to go!

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Quick List: 5 Place to Visit in September in Turkey

• Istanbul
• Cappadocia
• The Turquoise Coast
• Antalya
• Black Sea Region

Why Is September the Best Time to Visit Turkey?

Cheaper Accommodation

Most people are privy to the fact that traveling outside of summer months will always be cheaper.

It can depend on the location, but most of the time, fall and spring are the best months to travel if you’re looking for a good value. Travelers will notice that the most amount of money saved is with accommodation.

Planning a trip to Turkey in September gives you the opportunity to grab the hotel deals that are just beginning to emerge after a busy summer.

As the summer holiday family crowds diminish, accommodations need to keep the momentum going and will discount their rooms to keep them full.

Have your eyes set on a fancy cave hotel in Cappadocia? Or the penthouse apartment in Istanbul with a view of the skyline? Both are guaranteed to be cheaper in September, particularly late September.

🛌 Based on our experience, we found that websites like Trivago and Agoda had many more options for accommodation in Turkey compared to Booking.com or Airbnb.

Less Crowds

Turkey is becoming increasingly more favoured as both an alternative to popular countries like Greece and as an adventure travel destination.

Certain places in Turkey are, in fact, overrun by tourists if you don’t visit during the right time.

Cappadocia, for example, is the least hidden region of Turkey and experiences tour buses on a daily basis. Although it’s unlikely to completely steer clear of running into fellow travelers, it is a substantially calmer place from September – November.

Big cities like Istanbul and the beautiful Turkish Riviera are also packed during the summer months. If photography is one of your main reasons for a trip to Turkey, visiting in September will ensure that not all of your shots are ruined by crowds.

Booking activities such as guided tours of historic landmarks or a boat ride along the coast can also become much easier to accomplish in September.

Although there are a ton of places in Turkey that are hidden gems, it’s possible to face “sold out” scenarios and long lines for attractions if you’re visiting the main sites.

Pleasant Weather

It’s impossible to define Turkey by one climate but the reason why September in Turkey is so lovely is the lack of extremities in temperatures. Somehow, the weather in Turkey during the months of September maintains a level of normalcy that happens to be perfect for visitors, all across the country.

September weather brings equally pleasant temperatures for exploring cities and archaeological sites as it does for sunbathing along the riviera or hiking the Taurus Mountains.

Top Places to Visit in Turkey in September

Istanbul

The vibrant city of Istanbul is one of the most populated cities in the entire world. Its activity, energy, and constant motion are unlike any other big city in Europe. When you add the influx of tourists to the already existing population, Istanbul can become overwhelming.

Additionally, there’s nothing worse than walking through a big city in the peak of summer heat. Conquering the many kilometers on foot in Istanbul is much more enjoyable during cooler autumn or spring months.

The city is a destination year-round, but the more you can avoid it during the summer months, the more you’re able to see.

Queues don’t disappear entirely in September, but top sites like the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, and the Blue Mosque become much more manageable for visitors. Booking tours also becomes more attainable, and you can plan to actually see the interior of Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and take your time touring the Topkapi Palace.

Although Turkey is overall a very affordable country for travelers, Istanbul accommodation is competitive. You’ll undoubtedly find centrally located apartments and hotels at 10-20% cheaper prices during September compared to July or August.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a semi-arid region, nearly smack dab in the middle of Turkey. It’s not quite a full-blown desert by technical definition, but by feel, look, and climate, it’s very desert-like. The rocky region is situated on a high plateau which remains hot and dry during the summer.

The charm of Cappadocia is defined by its natural landscape, so you’ll want to plan a trip where you spend time outdoors. Given the fact that visiting snowy Cappadocia in winter isn’t for everyone, most tourists will head to Cappadocia in the summer.

The summer months may sound like the logical time to visit an outdoor destination, but in the case of Cappadocia, fall is more preferable.

The region is filled with hiking paths, scenic viewpoints, and open-air museums, all of which will feel excruciating under a hot summer sun if you visit during June – August.

September in Cappadocia is the perfect sweet spot for cooler daytime temperatures that are ideal for exploring.

The Turquoise Coast

The Turkish Riviera, commonly known as The Turquoise Coast, is an extraordinary stretch of beaches and dreamy water on the southern coast of the country.

Its official border lines are a bit blurry, but an easy way to define the Turquoise Coast is the distance between Bodrum and Antalya. It is also home to Fethiye, one of the most famous spots along Turkey’s coastline.

A paradise-like landscape comprises the Turkish Riviera and is a popular choice for yachting, snorkeling, and beachgoers. The Turquoise Coast is a perfect beach vacation for various types of travellers.

There are wild areas such as the Datça peninsula, bustling seafront towns like Kaş, and the adventurous Dalaman River that flows into the Mediterranean Sea.

Europe has no shortage of incredible islands and coastlines with amazing beaches, but the Turkish Riviera is comparatively undiscovered. By visiting Turkey in September, you’ll be able to experience the already unspoiled beaches with the possibility of finding one all to yourself.

Antalya

Antalya sits on the Mediterranean Sea and is the fifth largest city in Turkey. It is a major hub for summer tourism and incredibly busy during the summer months. The city consists of everything in one package.

It’s a big city with endless amenities, beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, activities for children, and an exciting nightlife. For the most well-rounded warm-weather vacation, Antalya checks off all the boxes.

The city consistently welcomes tourists seeking a beach holiday but this isn’t limited to summer months. Thanks to its geographical location along the Mediterranean, the climate’s warm temperatures extend through October.

Spending September in Antalya is ideal for people who are looking to sunbathe, water ski, go paragliding or hit the water park with the kids without a swarm of tourists.

Antalya is also one of the most historically rich cities in Turkey. Once a prominent Roman seaport, the many remnants of ancient life in Antalya are some of the city’s most alluring features.

Black Sea Region

The northern section of Turkey consists of the Black Sea Region. Named after its geographical positioning along the Black Sea, it’s an area of Turkey that’s nowhere near as frequented as the southern coastline.

The region is home to the Rize Province, an incredible terrain comprised of rolling green hills used for tea production. Tea cultivation is the Black Sea Region’s leading force behind their economy, with Rize tea being the most commonly consumed in Turkey.

The Black Sea Region of Turkey is the best area to visit for adventure travelers and those looking to get off the grid.

The majority of accommodation types in this region are bungalows, cabins, and tiny homes, usually nestled in the steep hills. Combined with the fairytale-like landscape of lush greenery and towering mountain peaks, it’s one of the most underrated destinations in Turkey for nature lovers.

Spending September in the Black Sea Region is ideal for anyone looking to accomplish a few mountain hikes while still enjoying a swim in the Black Sea.

Amazing Things to Do in Turkey in September

Experience the Top Attractions in Istanbul

Regardless of where you travel to, top attractions in any city are likely the most popular for a reason. Unfortunately, everyone wants to see what all the fuss is about! The top landmarks in Istanbul are no different and can get severely overcrowded during peak travel season.

Places like the Grand Bazaar can become impossible to walk through, and you may end up waiting for over an hour to step inside the Blue Mosque. But, this doesn’t have to be the case if you visit Turkey in September.

On top of this, make an effort to step into the city a little earlier in the day and you’ll be shocked at how different the city can feel.

The must-see places in Istanbul are always going to be frequented, but by visiting during shoulder or off-season, you have a chance to avoid long lines and bumping shoulders with everyone around you.

The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Basilica Cistern are just a few of Istanbul’s landmarks that are better seen in September without the chaos of summer.

Booking a tour in September for any of the most admired activities in Istanbul, means you’ll likely join a smaller group. Thus, leaving you not lost in the shuffle and allow you to actually hear and see what your tour guide is saying and pointing at.

Hot Air Ballooning or Horseback Riding in Cappadocia

Many tourists flock to Cappadocia just for the experience of hot air ballooning over the extraterrestrial countryside. Cappadocia is truly one of a kind and extraordinary to see in person, and its popular hot air balloon rides come at a price.

The cost of a hot air balloon during peak season is easily $200+ per person, and competition for availability is high.

There are multiple tour buses that stop in Cappadocia on a normal basis, which means your hot air balloon can quickly turn into a commute on the metro when there are crowds. It make things a little less magical, wouldn’t you agree?

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia during the month of September not only ensures a higher chance of a less crowded balloon ride, it’s also going to be slightly cheaper.

Pricing doesn’t vary drastically, but there are balloon operators that provide off-season pricing. Every little discount counts.

Alternatively, other activities such as horseback riding and ATV tours are just as memorable at a fraction of a hot air balloon ride’s cost. These outdoor activities are particularly more delightful to book for the fall months in Cappadocia instead of on a hot summer day.

Hike the Kaçkar Mountains

The natural characteristics of the Black Sea Region and the Kaçkar Mountains are undeniably stunning. If you’re seeking adventure travel or you are an outdoor enthusiast visiting Turkey, this is one place you should not miss.

Hiking, trekking, and wild camping in Turkey are beautiful during the month of September. Not to mention, the weather is ideal for spending time outdoors without getting scorched by the August sun.

The Kaçkar Mountain range is a friendly place for backpackers as there are mountain huts, pensions and refuges placed throughout the hiking trails.

This nature wonderland is full of surprises ranging from rural villages tucked away in the plateaus, raging waterfalls, and countless panoramic views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Some of the most magnificent sites in the Kaçkar Mountains include:

• Palovit Waterfall (location here)
• Palovit Yaylası (location here)
• Zil Castle (location here)
• Badara Yaylası (location here)
• Pokut Yaylası (location here)

Explore the Many Gorgeous Beaches of the Turkish Riviera

It may not sound intuitive at first, but going to Turkey in September is the best time to experience its many beaches. There aren’t too many places that can say the same, but the beach season in Turkey can even stretch throughout October.

There are plenty of areas along the Turkish Riviera that are equipped with developed resorts, beach clubs, and the ultimate summer holiday amenities.

The seaside towns of Kaş, Fethiye, Göcek, and Marmaris are a few of the crowd favorites. They are not just excellent places to stay but are also within close proximity to an abundance of picture-perfect beaches.

For travelers who have an intrepid taste for travel, the Datça peninsula is much more unassuming and off the beaten track. Its landscape is composed of rugged hills, small inlets, and pristine water. It is often the location for yachts and sail boats parked in the bays as well as camper vans who sleep on the beaches.

Whichever style of a seaside vacation suits you best, it is certain that you’ll experience a calmer time at the beach in September compared to July or August.

Although the people have started to fade away, the warm temperatures and sun are very much still present in Turkey in September.

Take a Boat Tour From Antalya

There are a lot of great beaches, sites, and things to do directly in Antalya. However, if you get the chance, embarking on a tour of the Antalya area by sea provides a completely different perspective on the great coastal city.

One section of Antalya sits entirely on a cliff and by boat, you can actually visit some of the secluded small inlets beneath the city. Antalya’s coast is also made famous by the Duden Waterfalls.

From land, you cannot properly witness the waterfalls in all its glory so experiencing a frontal view of it from a boat is worth the trip alone.

Chartering a boat, booking a private yacht, or even joining a group tour from Antalya at a discounted price is one of the top activities to take advantage of while visiting Turkey in September.

The city is flooded with vacationers in the summer, which means boat rental agencies are charging higher prices simply due to the demand. As the tourists fade, opportunities to book a boat tour at affordable prices become available.

Boat rides have been one of those things that we’ve found to always be worth the extra spend while travelling.

Discover Ancient Sites

Turkey has an immensely colorful past. Its history is deep, complex, and significant. Although the Turkey that we know today was only established in 1923, its geographical location has been influenced by preceding and various empires.

Before the Ottoman Empire and Byzantine Empire, the Eastern Roman Empire even left its mark on modern-day Turkey.

Progressions, defeats, and falls, Turkey has experienced them all. Naturally, with such a history, come some of the most impressive and well preserved ancient sites and landmarks you’ll find in Europe. The vast selection is one thing, but the diversity in era, heritage, and culture is another.

Among the Ancient Greek ruins, mythical ancient cities like Troy and a tomb of a Greco-Iranian king, you’ll also come across remnants of the Lycian Civilization. Back then, Lycia was a civilization along the southern coast of Turkey, notably in the mountains and near present-day Antalya.

The Lycian rock tombs are one of the most distinct types of ancient sites in Turkey and can be found throughout the Anatolia region.

One thing that we admired about Turkey is how accessible some of its historic sights were to the public. Of course, there are outdoor museums where landmarks are preserved and you must pay an admission fee to enter.

On the other hand, you’ll also find bits and pieces of the Ottoman Empire laying around in plain sight. All it takes is a good hike to reach them (like Lycian Rock Tombs in Kaş)!

People who are keen on visiting popular archaeological sites should definitely keep away from Turkey in the summer and skip the lines by visiting in September or October instead.

Book a Luxury Stay on a Budget

There are many reasons to love Turkey in September, and in general. But one of the best excuses to run to Turkey during shoulder season are the incredible deals on hotels and Airbnbs.

We gravitate towards any destination that’s a good value, and Turkey is, to date, still one of the least expensive places we’ve visited. The opportunity to stay at a luxury stay for a fraction of the price is usually possible even during peak season, but when you visit Turkey during shoulder or off-season, the deals get even better.

Collectively, we spent over a month in Turkey and set a budget of €50 or less per night. During our time along the Turkish Riviera, we chose to splurge on an entire home with a private pool in the hills above Kaş.

With our own private oasis and a view of a Greek island in the distance, the stay was unbelievable. Would you believe us if we said it only costed €100/night?!

The Weather in Turkey

Is Turkey Hot in September?

The answer to this question widely depends on where in Turkey you are going. It is a very large country with many regions, provinces, terrains, and geological features.

Although it’s tough to pinpoint if Turkey is hot in September, it is easier to note that it’s generally not cold. There is the exception of some major mountain peaks but for the standard vacation to Turkey, you can expect to be comfortably warm during a September trip.

Some cities and parts are hotter than others. For example, the capital city of Ankara is located inland and experiences a warm climate with highs of 26°C (80°F) in September.

On the opposite side of the country, temperatures in the city of Kars only reach a high of 22°C (73°F). Then, there’s the southern coastal city of Antalya that regularly sees peaks over 80°F.

If you are researching a trip to Turkey in September, you may likely want to know if it’s a suitable month for visiting beaches. In this case, yes, Turkey is perfectly hot enough for swimming in the sea during the month of September.

Cappadocia Weather in September

Cappadocia’s climate resembles a desert, one which is hot in the summer but not a stranger to snow in the winter. September in Cappadocia is heavenly, with just the right amount of warmth during the day for exploring outdoors.

Average daytime temperatures in Cappadocia are usually around 23°C (75°F).

The chilly evenings are just another excuse to book a cozy cave hotel to stay warm in. It’s important to be mindful of the temperatures below 10°C (50°F) if you’re planning on waking up early to see the hot air balloons.

Istanbul Weather in September

For exploring a bustling city like Istanbul, September weather could not be any more perfect. The daytime temperatures rarely exceed 25°C (78°F) and don’t usually drop below 18°C (65°F) during an average year.

Walking, sightseeing, and conquering the mild hills of Istanbul are very comfortable activities in September. Even if the temperature is on the lower end, you at least do not have to worry about potential rainfall.

Within September, it only rains an average of seven days in Istanbul.

What to Pack for Turkey

Unless you are planning on excessively hiking tall mountains, it’s not necessary to pack a heavy coat when visiting Turkey in September.

For a typical trip of exploring major landmarks, cities, and the coastline, these are the essentials you must include:

• Swimsuit
• Tops that cover shoulders and do not expose your midsection
• Pants, skirts or dresses that cover your knees
• Light multipurpose scarf
• Sunglasses
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Denim jacket (or similar) for chilly evenings
• Light windbreaker or rain jacket
• Hiking outfit

Is Turkey Crowded in September?

Sure, traveling to Turkey in September will eliminate the summer crowds at popular destinations. But no, it does not mean you will be the only one visiting Turkey.

Choosing to travel in September will mean one major thing – there is a lack of families travelling with children. Most children return to school in September, which means one demographic of tourists is eliminated.

This is definitely better than nothing, but you should not expect Turkey to be free of all other visitors just because it’s September.

Realistically, you should prepare for only a slightly noticeable difference if you are visiting places like Istanbul or Cappadocia. These two destinations in Turkey don’t experience a substantial decline in tourism until winter time.

Inland regions, the mountain ranges, and even the coast are visibly quieter, especially in the second half of September. Beaches are not packed from one end to another, parking lots aren’t filled, and attractions aren’t sold out.

Is Everything Still Open in September?

If you were to visit the Amalfi Coast during shoulder season, the last week of September is commonly the cutoff for seasonal restaurants, shops, and even some hotels. Luckily, the same doesn’t apply for Turkey.

Fortunately, we rarely noticed any businesses shutting down completely, even when our visit rolled into the month of October.

You can expect all major cities in Turkey to be fully operational year-round. The only time you may want to be sensitive to shoulder-season opening hours is when visiting coastal destinations.

Admired destinations like Fethiye or Bodrum are not much of an issue, but quieter places like the Datça peninsula may experience closures when it comes to accommodation and restaurants.

When we visited smaller villages, particularly in rural parts of Turkey, everything was functioning as normal in the month of September and October. This is largely due to the fact that life simply goes on when tourists aren’t expected.

September Events & Festivals Throughout Turkey

• Izmir International Fair (located in İzmir)
• Ürgüp Grape Harvest Festival (located in the Cappadocia region)
• International Avanos Tourism and Craft Festival (located in the Cappadocia region)
• Antalya Akra Jazz Festival (located in Antalya)
• Lycian Culture and Art Festival of Kas (located in Kaş)
• Gaming Festival (located in Istanbul)

More Turkey Travel Posts:

• The Best Family Destinations in Turkey
• Four Easy Turkey Road Trip Routes
• A One-Day Itinerary for Istanbul

Turkey Travel Resources

☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com

🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com

🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio

🛳 FERRIES: Direct Ferries

🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago

☎️ ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo

📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator

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