Turkey in May: Travel Tips, Weather, Things to do and More

In Turkey, May is late spring and early summer, so temperatures are warm across the country, and travellers rush to the cities, ancient sites, and outdoor attractions. May is a beautiful season to visit Turkey if you want pleasant but not too hot sightseeing conditions. Find out more about visiting this month in the areas below. But first, apply for a turkey visa online.

Weather

 

In May, temperatures in Turkey range from warm to hot, with low average rainfall. Average temperatures in popular destinations like Istanbul and Cappadocia are around 68-69°F (20-21°C), while Antalya, Bodrum, and Pamukkale are even warmer at around 77°F (25°C). These are still cooler temperatures than those seen in the middle of summer when temperatures climb even higher.

Costs & Crowds

 

If you want to travel to Istanbul or Cappadocia in May, apply for a turkey e visa online, and book your accommodation and flights in advance. Beach resorts along the Aegean and Mediterranean shores (western and southern Turkey) do not open until later. Look for smaller boutique accommodations in these regions if you want to spend some time on the beach with nice weather and fewer people.

 

Where to Go

 

With pleasant, dry weather throughout the year, where you go in Turkey in May is primarily a personal choice. Istanbul and Ankara both have a variety of cultural and historical sights to visit and cafés and restaurants where you can cool down. When the weather is bright, the landscapes of Cappadocia and Pamukkale are at their best. Hiking possibilities include the seashore between Fethiye and Antalya (the Lycian Way), Cappadocia, the Taurus Mountains, and the Kaçkar Mountains.

 

What to Do

 

In May, general sightseeing and outdoor activities such as hiking are good. With pleasant, dry weather that isn't too hot, you may tour historic cultural sites like Ephesus, travel along old trade routes like the Lycian Way, or stroll between museums, mosques, and marketplaces with ease (in Istanbul). While May is not peak season for beach resorts along the coast, it may be an excellent month to take in the beauty and culture of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts without the crowds (but check accommodation availability first because not everything will be open).

 

Events in May

 

Ramadan, which takes place between late March and early May, is one of Turkey's most important religious celebrations. During this month, devout Muslims avoid eating and drinking during daytime hours. Some restaurants are closed for the entire month, while others are only open for a few hours. Travelling in Turkey during Ramadan may be a rich cultural experience, but it will require more planning and flexibility because not all restaurants will be open.

 

Ramadan Bayrami is a three-day event that occurs after Ramazan ends. It is known as Eid in several other Islamic countries. It's a three-day festival marking the completion of the holy month and the fast breaking.

 

The arrival of spring is celebrated on May 6th at Hidirellez. An Islamic feast celebrates the reunion on Earth of the Prophets Al-Khidr (Hizir in Turkish) and Elijah. People wish for good fortune. These days, Hidirellez celebrations are more likely to be found in small towns and villages than in cities.

 

If you have been planning a trip to Turkey, first apply for a turkey e visa in advance.