Istanbul in October 2024: Top 10 Things to Do & See, Festivals

Visiting Istanbul in October offers a perfect balance between pleasant autumn weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore the city. With temperatures cooling down from the summer heat and a range of cultural events taking place, October provides a unique experience for travelers. This guide will show you through what to expect, from the weather to top attractions and festivals, ensuring you get the most out of your visit to Istanbul during this month.

Key Takeaways

• Mild Autumn Weather: October in Istanbul brings comfortable temperatures between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with cooler evenings and occasional rain showers.
• Fewer Crowds: October is an ideal time to visit major landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace without the summer crowds.
• Cultural Festivals: Major events include the Akbank Jazz Festival, Istanbul Design Biennial, and Republic Day celebrations on October 29.
• Packing Essentials: Bring light layers for daytime and a jacket or raincoat for cooler evenings and rain.
• Outdoor Enjoyment: October is perfect for a Bosphorus cruise, exploring parks, and leisurely walks through the city’s outdoor markets.

Weather in Istanbul in October

In October, Istanbul experiences mild and comfortable weather, ideal for outdoor exploration.

October is a lovely month for the ones who like to enjoy and explore the city in a cool weather, but still shining. October is also a shoulder season, which is perfect for travelers wishing to explore Istanbul without so much crowds and queues.

Average temperatures range between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with cooler evenings dipping to around 13°C (55°F). Rain is more common compared to summer, with 7-10 rainy days, though showers are typically short-lived.

• Daytime: Expect comfortable weather perfect for walking tours and sightseeing.
• Evenings: Cooler evenings make a light jacket or sweater essential.
• Rain: With occasional showers, packing an umbrella or raincoat is advised.

The pleasant weather makes October a great time for activities that might be too hot or crowded during the summer months.

The days are shorter now, the sun set around 18:30.

October Events and Festivals in Istanbul

October in Istanbul is a culturally vibrant time, with various festivals celebrating music, art, and national heritage:

• Akbank Jazz Festival: Running for 10 days in early October, this festival brings together international and local jazz artists for performances across the city, perfect for music lovers.
• Istanbul Design Biennial: Kicking off in October, this biennial showcases contemporary design, offering a mix of exhibitions, workshops, and discussions for art and design enthusiasts.
• Republic Day: Celebrated on October 29, this national holiday marks the founding of the Turkish Republic. The city comes alive with parades, fireworks, and celebrations, particularly around Taksim Square and along the Bosphorus.

These events make October an excellent time for those wanting to experience Istanbul’s cultural scene alongside its historical attractions.

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)

Top 10 Things to Do in Istanbul in October

Istanbul in October promises an enchanting journey filled with history, art, culture, and culinary delights. As you explore its historic landmarks, attend vibrant festivals, and savor the warmth of Turkish hospitality, you’ll create unforgettable memories.

Things to do in Istanbul are endless and it is not possible to mention all the best attractions in Istanbul. We just put together below the most fascinating ones that best suit for October.

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

Explore Hagia Sophia

Located in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, Hagia Sophia is a former church and museum, now a mosque. It is one of the world’s greatest architectural works and accepted as the 8th wonder of the world, experience the history in the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.

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.

Tips:

• 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.

Tips:

• 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

Basilica Cistern Museum is one of the most impressive and mystical buildings in the city. The two Medusa Heads, which are used as supports under the two columns at the northwest edge of the cistern, take the most interest and attracts the visitors.

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

Tips:

• 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.

2. Tour city on Double Decker Tourist Bus

Istanbul Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a cheap way to discover and explore the popular zones of Istanbul which you just couldn’t walk to and see in one day. The sightseeing bus runs every 30/60 minutes and lets you see the most popular popular sights along the interesting and different districts and neighborhoods of the city. And what is great that you can all do it in a couple of hours.

The city sightseeing bus runs every 30/60 minutes and lets you see the most popular popular sights along the interesting and different districts and neighborhoods of the city. And what is great that you can all do it in a couple of hours.

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

Wanna learn more about Istanbul Hop-on Hop-off Bus?

3. Enjoy the Top Festivals & Events

Jazz Up Your Nights at Akbank Jazz Festival, October

The Akbank Jazz Festival is one of the most anticipated music events in Istanbul in October, celebrating the diversity of jazz from around the world. Since its inception in 1991, the festival has grown into a premier international event, featuring performances by global jazz legends as well as emerging artists.

With concerts taking place at various venues across Istanbul, the festival highlights everything from traditional jazz to experimental and fusion genres.

Why Attend? Whether you’re a die-hard jazz fan or new to the genre, the Akbank Jazz Festival offers something for everyone. It’s an excellent opportunity to see both international jazz icons and up-and-coming talent in Istanbul’s vibrant music scene.

With events like workshops, jam sessions, and masterclasses, the festival provides a deeper connection to the jazz world.

The Festival takes place in such attractive venues including Akbank Sanat, Hagia Iirene Museum, Babylon, Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall, and Zorlu Center PSM.

• More information on www.akbanksanat.com/en

Istanbul Biennial (September-November)

The Istanbul International Biennial is about 2 months long international contemporary art biennial, organized by IKSV every two years. It is one of the best ones in the world together with the ones in Venice, Sao Paolo and Sydney.

Why Attend? Art enthusiasts will love the opportunity to experience thought-provoking contemporary works in some of Istanbul’s most iconic locations, such as Istanbul Modern and Pera Museum.

Admission to the biennial is FREE of charge. You will enjoy the most popular showcases of the contemporary art exhibition in more than 30 venues throughout the city.

• More information on bienal.iksv.org/en

Istanbul Coffee Festival (October)

A must for coffee lovers, the Istanbul Coffee Festival brings together specialty coffee roasters, workshops, and live music for an unforgettable experience. Held in locations like KüçükÇiftlik Park, the festival lets you sample the finest brews while learning more about coffee culture.

Why Attend? This festival offers a sensory journey for anyone passionate about coffee. With workshops and tastings available, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of coffee-making.

• More information on coffeefestival.com

4. Get Lost in the Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar – A Shopper’s Paradise, with its labyrinthine alleys and over 4,000 shops, beckons for exploration.

You are able to find about anything here in Grand Bazaar from the finest silky shawls and scarves in traditional patterns to traditional items, from antiques, leather goods, ceramics to the famous carpets, from spices, beautiful handicrafts to gold and jewelry.

5. Enjoy the lively atmosphere at Istiklal Street

Istiklal Street is probably the most famous street and entertainment area of the city. It is a long colorful pedestrian street full of all kind of shops, restaurants, cafes and street shows. You can visit the fantastic Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the amazing St. Anthony of Padua Church and Pera Museum there.

In between strolling the Istiklal Street and enjoying the lively atmosphere, you can have a lunch/dinner/snack in one of the pretty restaurants along the way.

Wanna learn more about Istiklal Street?

5. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Bosphorus cruise is a popular, unique and fantastic forms of entertainment and sightseeing during your Istanbul stay. It is also one of the best ways to discover and enjoy the most beautiful sights and sounds of the city over the sea.

You’ll be able to explore the city at your own pace on board of the boat, and enjoy all the famous landmarks on the Boshphorus such as Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower and the Bosphorus Bridge.

And especially if you take the Bosphorus dinner cruise, or Sunset cruise, you will be mesmerized with the historical monuments that are lit up

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

1. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table (the best dinner cruise, over 12.000 reviews, check them and enjoy)
2. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 1 (the best sunset, on yacht, don't miss)
3. Bosphorus on Yacht Cruise with Stopover on Asian Side (great with stopover at Kanlica, we highly recommend)
4. Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks (superb yacht cruise)
5. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 2 (another great sunset, on yacht, don't miss)
6. Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show (superb dinner cruise on a catamaran, don't miss!)
7. All Inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Private Table (great dinner cruise, check it out)
8. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 3 (superb sunset, on yacht, don't miss)
9. Maiden's Tower Ticket w/ Transfer & Audio Guide (cheapest price, the only Maiden's Tower fast track entry online ticket)

Wanna learn more about Bosphorus Cruises?

7. Historical Turkish Bath (Hammam) experience

This will is one of the one time experiences on your Istanbul visit. With a Turkish bath, also called Hammam, you can enjoy an authentic experience, relax your muscles, rest in a steam bath, refresh your body. It will a be unique experience, as well as you will be freshened up. There are many historical hammams in Istanbul where you can enjoy a relaxing steam bath and invigorating scrub by expert attendants.

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?

8. Mystical night out with Whirling Dervishes Show

Whirling Dervishes Show is one of the most visited Istanbul attractions with the tourists. It is because that this ceremony is a very unusual event for the tourists and when they hear about it, majority of them try to catch this one hour show and witness the miracle of the whirling dervishes.

There are two popular venues that you can watch this show. 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?

9. Visit Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall

Istanbul Aquarium, located in Florya district of Bakirkoy, is one of the best theme parks in Istanbul. With its 6,000 square meters area, a special-themed and 1,2 km long travel route originating in the Black Sea towards the Pacific, the fish species, rain-forest, a gift shop with an area of 470 square meters. It is also one of the best aquariums and theme parks in Europe. You can also enjoy a great leisure time in the Aqua Florya Mall.

Wanna learn more about Istanbul Aquarium?

10. Feast at the Spice Bazaar

Spice Bazaar – a Culinary Treasure Trove, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a feast for the senses. In October, explore its vibrant alleys filled with aromatic spices, exotic teas, Turkish delight, and more. Sample local treats and bring home flavorful souvenirs.

Tips:

• Engage with shopkeepers to learn about the spices’ culinary uses.
• Don’t forget to haggle for the best prices.

What to Pack for Istanbul in October

Packing smartly for Istanbul in October is key to enjoying the mild, yet occasionally unpredictable, weather. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Daytime: Light layers, such as long-sleeve shirts and sweaters, are perfect for cooler mornings and evenings.
• Evenings: A jacket or raincoat for the cooler, breezy evenings.
• Rain Protection: Given the occasional showers, an umbrella or rainproof jacket is essential for staying dry during rain showers.
• Comfortable Footwear: With the potential for long walks in historical neighborhoods, bring comfortable walking shoes.

Packing light layers ensures you’re prepared for fluctuating temperatures, while a raincoat or umbrella will keep you comfortable during any sudden showers.

FAQs

What is the weather like in Istanbul in October?

October in Istanbul features mild autumn weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) and cooler evenings around 13°C (55°F). Rain is possible, with around 7-10 rainy days during the month, so packing an umbrella is advisable for the occasional showers.

Why is October a good time to visit Istanbul?

October is a great time to visit Istanbul because the weather is pleasant, with fewer tourists than in summer. You can explore major landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace without long lines. Additionally, the city hosts several cultural events, including the Akbank Jazz Festival and Republic Day celebrations​.

What events and festivals take place in Istanbul in October?

Key events in October include the Akbank Jazz Festival, which showcases international and local jazz artists, the Istanbul Design Biennial for art lovers, and Republic Day celebrations on October 29, with parades and fireworks​.

What should I pack for Istanbul in October?

Pack layers such as long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Bring an umbrella or a raincoat due to the possibility of rain showers. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking tours, as October’s mild weather is perfect for exploring on foot.

How busy are Istanbul’s attractions in October?

October sees fewer tourists than the summer months, making it an ideal time to visit top attractions like the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace without heavy crowds. This allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience​.

Where should I go for outdoor activities in Istanbul in October?

October’s mild weather is perfect for outdoor activities like a Bosphorus cruise or exploring parks such as Emirgan Park. You can also visit Istanbul’s famous markets, such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, without the summer heat​.

What is Republic Day, and how is it celebrated in Istanbul?

Republic Day is celebrated on October 29 and marks the founding of the Turkish Republic in 1923. It is a national holiday featuring parades, fireworks, and patriotic events, particularly around Taksim Square and the Bosphorus​.

Is October a rainy season in Istanbul?

October brings more rain compared to the summer, with 7-10 rainy days spread throughout the month. However, the showers are usually short-lived and shouldn’t disrupt your travel plans too much​.

Conclusion

October is an ideal time to visit Istanbul for travelers seeking mild weather, fewer tourists, and a rich cultural experience. From exploring iconic landmarks to attending exciting festivals like the Akbank Jazz Festival and Republic Day, you’ll find plenty to see and do.

We also recommend you check out our Istanbul attractions opening hours & admissions, one day Istanbul itinerary or 3 day Istanbul itinerary to have a better idea before you plan your days in Istanbul.