Visiting Istanbul in December: What to See & Do? Our Best Tips

Visiting Istanbul in December means experiencing the city in a whole new way. As winter sets in, Istanbul transforms into a cozy, festive destination, filled with twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and warm Turkish delicacies.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Istanbul in December, including weather updates, packing advice, must-see attractions, and seasonal events.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Istanbul?

Yes! December is a magical time to visit Istanbul, with festive decorations, cozy cafés, and a unique winter atmosphere. While it’s the off-season for tourism, the city still feels lively, and hotel prices drop significantly compared to the summer months.

With temperatures between 5°C and 12°C (41°F-54°F), December is cold but not unbearable. You might experience rainy days, occasional snowfall, and misty mornings over the Bosphorus—all adding to the charm of winter in Istanbul.

If you don’t mind bundling up, you’ll love experiencing the city’s rich history, warm Turkish hospitality, and delicious winter treats like salep and roasted chestnuts.

December is Ideal for:

✔ Exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks—Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace without summer crowds.
✔ Wandering through festive streets—Istiklal Avenue and Nişantaşı are beautifully decorated for the holiday season.
✔ Shopping at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar—Perfect for unique gifts and souvenirs.
✔ Enjoying Turkish baths (hammams)—A great way to warm up after sightseeing.
✔ Trying winter street food—Don’t miss roasted chestnuts, Turkish stews, and hot salep.

What to Expect in December?

• Chilly and rainy weather—Pack a warm coat, sweater, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella.
• Shorter daylight hours—Sunset is around 4:30 PM, so plan sightseeing early.
• Festive decorations and Christmas markets—Although Turkey doesn’t officially celebrate Christmas, Istanbul embraces the festive spirit with light displays, holiday markets, and special events.
• New Year’s Eve celebrations—Istanbul goes all out for New Year’s Eve, with fireworks, street parties, and Bosphorus dinner cruises.
• Lower hotel prices—A great time for budget-friendly travel, except for the last week of December when prices spike for New Year’s Eve.

Weather in Istanbul in December

December in Istanbul is officially winter, but it’s not as cold as other European cities. The city is beautifully decorated for New Year’s Eve, and holiday markets pop up in different neighborhoods.

While snow is rare, you can expect cold and rainy days, making indoor activities more appealing. Here’s what to expect from Istanbul’s December weather:

• Daytime temperatures: 8-12°C (46-54°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 4-8°C (39-46°F)
• Rainy days: 10-12 days (moderate rain, occasional fog)
• Chance of snow: Unlikely, but possible in late December

December is all about winter experiences—like soaking in a Turkish hammam, drinking salep (hot milk-based drink), and enjoying indoor attractions like museums, bazaars, and historical mosques.

What to Pack for December in Istanbul

✔ A warm winter coat
✔ Waterproof boots or shoes (rain is frequent)
✔ Sweaters and thermal layers
✔ Gloves, a hat, and a thick scarf
✔ An umbrella

By the end of December, Istanbul’s festive atmosphere peaks, making it a great place to celebrate the New Year.

December Events and Festivals in Istanbul

December in Istanbul brings festive spirit and cultural experiences. Here are some of the key events to look forward to:

• Seb-i Aruz Festival: Held in mid-December, this festival commemorates the passing of Rumi, a famous Sufi mystic. The festival features Whirling Dervishes performances, which offer a fascinating look into the spiritual and cultural significance of this tradition​.
• Christmas Markets: While Turkey is predominantly Muslim, Christmas markets can be found in areas like Galataport and Zorlu Center, where visitors can browse local crafts, food, and festive decorations​.
• New Year’s Eve: Celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks, live performances, and street parties, especially along the Bosphorus and Taksim Square. The city lights up with festivities, making it an unforgettable place to ring in the New Year.

Whether you’re looking to experience traditional Turkish celebrations or enjoy a festive atmosphere, Istanbul in December offers something for every traveler.

Top Venues

You can follow the calendar of exhibitions and events of our pick of top Istanbul venues from below.

• Istanbul Museum of Modern Art in Beyoglu (art, exhibition, film)
• Pera Museum in Taksim (art, exhibition, film)
• Sakip Sabanci Museum in Emirgan (art, exhibition, film)
• Salon IKSV in Beyoglu (concert)
• Bomontiada in Sisli (concert, theater)
• Akbank Sanat in Taksim (art, exhibition, film, concert)
• Zorlu PSM in Besiktas (concert, musical)

Get an Istanbul City Pass

A city pass is a great way to save money and time while exploring Istanbul’s top attractions. Here are the main options:

• MegaPass Istanbul (Best Overall)
  ✔ Covers Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe Palace
  ✔ Includes Bosphorus Cruise, Public Transport, and Skip-the-Line Entry
• Istanbul E-Pass (Fully Digital & Flexible)
  ✔ Includes Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe Palace, Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
  ✔ Available for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days

MegaPass Istanbul is the best option for first-time visitors. It includes all must-see sites, skip-the-line access, public transport, and guided tours at the best price.

Top Tours & Tickets

Top 10 Things to Do in Istanbul in December

December is the start of winter in Istanbul, as well as a fantastic month with Christmas and New Year fervor in the city.

Even in the winter chill, Istanbul offers a wide variety of activities. December’s cooler weather, combined with fewer tourists, makes it ideal for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks at a relaxed pace. We just put together below the most fascinating ones that best suit for December.

1. Enjoy the colorful New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Istanbul in December transforms into a magical setting for New Year’s Eve celebrations, featuring dazzling fireworks over the Bosphorus and lively street festivities. Popular districts for partying include Taksim, Istiklal Street, Nişantaşı, Besiktas, Bakirkoy, and Kadikoy, each offering unique atmospheres. From rooftop parties to open-air events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially in areas with fireworks or large gatherings.

Explore New Years’s Eve in Istanbul

2. Visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern Trio

Explore Hagia Sophia

Located in Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia is a stunning architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum. Experience its unique fusion of Christian and Islamic art, including golden mosaics, Byzantine frescoes, and an awe-inspiring dome. Visit early to avoid crowds, and dress modestly to respect the mosque’s customs.

It’s like stepping into the holy world of Christianity and Islam, merged on the shell-like apse and under an impressive dome, in a mysterious and mystical ambiance, and a wide range of architectural and art works coming from thousands of years. Such as the golden Christian mosaics and colorful frescoes from the Byzantine era.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid long queues.
• Dress modestly and be respectful of the mosque’s customs.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

Wanna learn more about Hagia Sophia?

Visit Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace is a magnificent oriental palace and one of world’s richest museums that is situated on a triangular promontory dominating the Bosphorus & Golden Horn.

This is a magnificent oriental palace and one of the world’s greatest architectural works. Once a residence of the Ottoman Sultans, it is also one of world’s richest museums.

It was the residence of the Ottoman Sultans from 15th century to mid-19th century. It has four courtyards, terraces with astonishing views, as well as precious collections, one of the top tourist attractions in the city.

It houses the finest samples of seal, book binding, jewelry and box craftsmanship as well as inscriptions, as well as the finest collection of Chinese porcelain in the world.

• Allow several hours for your visit to fully appreciate the palace.
• Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the palace terraces.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

Wanna learn more about Topkapi Palace?

Explore the famous Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern Museum is a peaceful and atmospheric site, known for its Medusa Heads and impressive arches. Reflective waters and dim lighting create a magical ambiance, perfect for photography. Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene setting.

The cistern is a very quiet and peaceful place conveyed by the columns through impressive arches.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
• Capture the atmospheric reflections on the water’s surface.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

Wanna learn more about Basilica Cistern?

We highly recommend you to visit and see all these three museums at once. It would take about 3 hours total. And you should get Skip-the-line-tickets to save yourself from the long queues.

Combo Tickets: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern

This is a great combo ticket. Our favorite. You can visit the above top 3 most visited sights in Sultanahmet with this combo ticket, with skip the lines access. Great value for money. Book your tickets online in advance as they are selling out quickly.

Buy Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern Combo Ticket

Click the red button to buy Combo online tickets and skip the lines.
Our website visitors will get 5% extra discount.

3. Mystical night out with Whirling Dervishes Show

The Whirling Dervishes Show is a spiritual and mesmerizing performance that reflects the traditions of Sufi mysticism.

Watch as dervishes spin gracefully to mystical music in historic venues like Hodjapasha Culture Center or Orient Express Hall. Book your tickets online in advance as they are selling out quickly.

Buy Whirling Dervishes Show Tickets at Hodjapasha Culture Center

Buy Whirling Dervishes Show Tickets at Orient Express Hall

Wanna learn more about Whirling Dervishes Show?

4. Enjoy the lively atmosphere at Istiklal Street

A visit to Istiklal Street is a must for its vibrant energy and endless entertainment. This iconic pedestrian street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks such as Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Anthony of Padua Church, and Pera Museum.

Stop at a local café to enjoy a traditional Turkish tea or dessert while soaking in the lively ambiance.

Wanna learn more about Istiklal Street?

5. Visit Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts

Located in the historic Ibrahim Pasha Palace, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts showcases over 40,000 Turkish and Islamic artifacts, including exquisite carpets, manuscripts, and ceramics. It’s a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into centuries of craftsmanship and culture.

Wanna learn more about Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts?

6. Catch the winter sales at Istanbul’s Shopping Malls

With over 200 modern malls, Istanbul is a shopper’s paradise, especially during winter sales in December. Visit popular malls like Istinye Park, Zorlu Center, and Aqua Florya for discounts on international brands, Turkish products, and dining options.

Wanna learn more about Istanbul Shopping Malls?

7. Enjoy Istanbul’s lively nights with its bars, pubs and clubs

Istanbul’s nightlife comes alive in December with rooftop bars, music venues, night clubs, and cozy pubs. Explore districts like Beyoğlu and Kadıköy for a mix of vibrant bars and live music. Sip on hot beverages like salep or indulge in Turkish desserts like baklava for a memorable evening.

8. Visit Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall

Istanbul Aquarium in Florya offers an educational and entertaining experience with themed exhibits, a rainforest zone, and a wide variety of marine life. After your visit, enjoy dining and shopping at Aqua Florya Mall, which offers spectacular sea views.

Wanna learn more about Istanbul Aquarium?

9. Feast at the Spice Bazaar

Spice Bazaar is a vibrant culinary destination filled with exotic spices, teas, Turkish delights, and other local treats. Interact with shopkeepers to learn about culinary traditions, sample the flavors, and haggle for the best deals.

10. Historical Turkish Bath (Hammam) experience

Experience the ultimate relaxation with a visit to a Turkish bath, or hammam. Enjoy a steam bath, body scrub, and soothing massage in historic hammams like Çemberlitaş Hammam or Süleymaniye Hammam. This rejuvenating experience is perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Tip: Book a session in advance to secure your preferred time and enjoy a truly authentic experience.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

1. Turkish Bath at Cemberlitas Hamam by Getyourguide
2. Famous Hurrem Sultan Hamam Experience (on the Sultanahmet Square, on the site of the ancient public baths from 100-200 AD)
3. Turkish Bath & Spa at Catma Mescit Hamam (great experience at historical hamam close to Galata Tower)
4. Grand Hotel de Pera Turkish Bath (very good one along Istiklal Street)
5. Doubletree by Hilton Sirkeci Hotel Turkish Bath (another very good one along Sirkeci)
6. Turkish Bath Package at Beyoglu Aga Hamami (very good one too)

Wanna learn more about Turksh Bath & Hammams in Istanbul?

Culinary Delights: What to Eat in Istanbul in Winter

December is the perfect time to indulge in Turkish winter cuisine. Istanbul’s food scene comes alive with hearty dishes that will warm you up during the cooler months.

• Mercimek Çorbası (Lentil Soup): A staple of Turkish cuisine, this rich, comforting soup is perfect for winter.
• Salep: This hot, creamy drink made from orchid roots is a must-try in December. It’s often served with cinnamon and is perfect for warming up on a cold day.
• Boza: A traditional winter drink made from fermented grains, Boza is often served with cinnamon and roasted chickpeas. Head to the Vefa Bozacisi in the Vefa neighborhood for an authentic taste​.

Shopping in Istanbul in December

Shopping in Istanbul during December has a magical, festive feel, with both traditional and modern options:

• Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar: These historic markets offer a sensory overload with vibrant displays of spices, textiles, and Turkish crafts. The festive decorations add an extra layer of charm.
• Modern Shopping Centers: For a more contemporary shopping experience, visit malls like Zorlu Center and Istinye Park, which are beautifully decorated for the holiday season and often offer winter sales.

From traditional souvenirs to luxury shopping, Istanbul in December is a shopper’s paradise.

Special December Experiences in Istanbul

In addition to sightseeing and shopping, Istanbul offers unique winter experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

• Hammams: A visit to a Turkish bath (hammam) is the perfect way to relax and warm up after a day of exploring. Popular hammams like Cağaloğlu offer a traditional and luxurious experience.
• Turkish Coffee and Fortune Telling: Visit one of Istanbul’s many cozy cafes for a hot cup of Turkish coffee, followed by a fortune-telling session based on your coffee grounds—a fun and culturally immersive activity​.

Accommodation Recommendations

Best Hotels and Hostels for November Travel

• Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: A luxurious option close to historical landmarks like Hagia Sophia.
• Vault Karaköy, The House Hotel: A boutique hotel offering modern amenities and stunning Bosphorus views.
• Cheers Hostel: A budget-friendly option with a social atmosphere in the heart of Sultanahmet.

Top Areas to Stay

Choose a neighborhood that matches your interests and offers easy access to attractions:

• Sultanahmet: Ideal for history enthusiasts, with proximity to Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque.
• Beyoğlu: Known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and cultural experiences.
• Kadıköy: A quieter area on the Asian side with bustling markets and excellent dining options.