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, I’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.

Best Things to Do in Istanbul in December

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul in December, here’s a complete guide to the best things to do, must-see attractions, and seasonal highlights.

Explore Istanbul’s Iconic Landmarks in Winter Light 🕌

📍 Where: Sultanahmet
📅 When: Early morning or late afternoon

Visiting Istanbul’s historic sites in December means fewer crowds and a peaceful ambiance. With misty mornings and golden sunsets, winter adds a unique charm to landmarks like:

✔ Hagia Sophia – Admire its iconic domes and mosaics.
✔ Blue Mosque – Experience one of Istanbul’s most famous religious sites.
✔ Topkapi Palace – Wander through grand courtyards and opulent rooms.

💡 Tip: Bring a warm jacket—some areas of Topkapi Palace are outdoors!

Experience the Enchanting Istanbul Christmas Markets 🎄

📍 Where: Various locations (Nişantaşı, Bomontiada, Four Seasons Bosphorus)
📅 When: Throughout December

While Turkey doesn’t officially celebrate Christmas, Istanbul still hosts charming festive markets with:

✔ Handmade gifts & Turkish crafts.
✔ Seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts & mulled wine.
✔ Live music, ice-skating, and holiday lights.

💡 Tip: Check out the Four Seasons Bosphorus Christmas Market for an upscale festive experience.

Discover Istanbul’s Indoor Museums 🏛️

📍 Where: Various locations
📅 When: Midday (to avoid the coldest hours)

January is the perfect month to explore Istanbul’s museums. Some of the best include:

✔ Istanbul Archaeology Museums – Featuring ancient artifacts and stunning mosaics.
✔ Rahmi M. Koç Museum – Showcasing vintage cars, planes, and trains.
✔ Pera Museum – Home to orientalist paintings and rotating art exhibitions.

💡 Tip: Most museums are closed on Mondays, so check the schedule in advance.

Take a Winter Bosphorus Cruise 🚢

📍 Where: Departures from Eminönü, Kabataş, Beşiktaş
📅 When: Afternoon or sunset

A Bosphorus cruise in December offers stunning winter views of the city skyline. You can choose from:

• Short sightseeing cruises (1-2 hours).
• Full-day cruises to Anadolu Kavağı.
• Luxury dinner cruises with Turkish performances.

💡 Tip: Dress warmly and sit inside the heated areas if it’s too chilly outside.

Warm Up with Istanbul’s Best Winter Drinks ☕

📍 Where: Local cafés and tea houses
📅 When: Anytime during the day

Nothing beats warming up with traditional Turkish winter drinks. Be sure to try:

✔ Salep – A creamy, hot drink made from orchid root.
✔ Boza – A slightly sweet fermented millet drink, served with cinnamon.
✔ Turkish tea – Served everywhere and best enjoyed with simit.

💡 Tip: Visit Vefa Bozacısı, Istanbul’s most famous boza shop, for an authentic taste.

Visit the Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar for Winter Shopping 🛍️

📍 Where: Grand Bazaar (Beyazıt), Spice Bazaar (Eminönü)
📅 When: Weekday mornings

Winter is one of the best times to shop in Istanbul, with fewer crowds and seasonal products available.

✔ Grand Bazaar – Find handmade carpets, jewelry, and souvenirs.
✔ Spice Bazaar – Stock up on saffron, dried fruits, and Turkish delight.
✔ Istiklal Street & Nişantaşı – Perfect for holiday shopping and designer brands.

💡 Tip: Vendors expect bargaining, so negotiate for the best deals!

See a Whirling Dervishes Ceremony ✨

📍 Where: Galata Mevlevi Lodge, Hodjapasha Cultural Center
📅 When: Evenings

December is a special time for Whirling Dervish performances, as it coincides with the anniversary of Rumi’s death (Dec 17)—a major event for Sufi culture.

✔ Experience traditional Sufi music & dance.
✔ Learn about the teachings of Rumi.
✔ Enjoy a spiritual and artistic performance.

💡 Tip: Book tickets in advance, as December performances often sell out.

Enjoy a Turkish Bath Experience (Hammam) 🛁

📍 Where: Historic hammams across the city
📅 When: Anytime during your stay

A Turkish bath (hammam) is the perfect way to relax on a cold December day. Some of the best hammams in Istanbul include:

✔ Çemberlitaş Hammam – One of the oldest bathhouses in Istanbul.
✔ Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam – A beautifully restored 16th-century hammam.
✔ Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hammam – A luxurious bath near Hagia Sophia.

💡 Tip: Hammams are separated by gender, so check the schedule before visiting.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Istanbul 🎆

📍 Where: Taksim, Ortaköy, Bosphorus
📅 When: December 31

Istanbul’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are lively, with:

✔ Fireworks over the Bosphorus.
✔ Rooftop parties and live music.
✔ New Year’s Eve dinner cruises with entertainment.

💡 Tip: Book New Year’s Eve events in advance—restaurants and cruises fill up fast!

Indulge in Traditional Turkish Winter Dishes 🍽️

📍 Where: Throughout the city
📅 When: Any time

December is comfort food season, and Istanbul offers delicious winter dishes like:

✔ Kuzu tandır – Slow-cooked lamb with rice.
✔ İçli köfte – Stuffed bulgur balls with meat.
✔ Mercimek çorbası – A warming Turkish lentil soup.

💡 Tip: Try Ciya Sofrası in Kadıköy for authentic Anatolian winter food.

Visit the Princes’ Islands for a Quiet Escape 🚲

📍 Where: Büyükada, Heybeliada
📅 When: Early morning ferries

The Princes’ Islands in December are peaceful and free from summer crowds.

✔ Rent a bike and explore historic mansions.
✔ Visit Aya Yorgi Church for scenic views.
✔ Enjoy a seafood lunch by the waterfront.

💡 Tip: Ferries leave from Eminönü & Kadıköy, check schedules before heading out.

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
  💰 from €64 – €116 (based on attractions included)
• Istanbul E-Pass (Fully Digital & Flexible)
  ✔ Includes Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe Palace, Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
  ✔ Available for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days
  💰 from €175 for 3 days
• Istanbul Tourist Pass (Most Attractions)
  ✔ Access to 100+ attractions, including museums, cruises & guided tours
  ✔ Includes discounts for restaurants and shopping
  💰 from €200 for 3 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.

Is Istanbul Safe?

Yes, Istanbul is a safe city for tourists, and Turkey, in general, is considered safe for visitors. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world.

While petty crime like pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas, violent crime against tourists is rare.

✔ Tourist areas are well-patrolled, and major landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar have a visible security presence.
✔ Taxis and public transportation are safe, but it’s best to use official taxis or ride apps like BiTaksi to avoid scams.
✔ If you’re a solo female traveler, Istanbul is generally safe, but as in any major city, it’s good to stay aware, avoid dimly lit streets at night, and dress modestly when visiting mosques.

Getting Around Istanbul

Istanbul is a massive city, but getting around is easy thanks to its efficient transportation system. Whether you prefer trams, buses, ferries, or taxis, there are plenty of ways to navigate the city.

✔ Istanbulkart – The Istanbulkart is a must if you plan to use public transportation. It works on trams, metros, buses, and ferries, and it will save you money compared to buying single tickets. You can purchase and reload it at kiosks and metro stations.

✔ Trams & Metro – The T1 tram line is the best way to explore Istanbul’s old city, with stops near Sultanahmet, Grand Bazaar, and Eminönü. The M2 metro line is useful for getting around newer areas like Taksim and Levent.

✔ Ferries – Istanbul’s Bosphorus ferries are a scenic and affordable way to cross between Europe and Asia. Ferries run from Eminönü, Karaköy, Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and Üsküdar, giving you amazing water views of the city.

✔ Taxis & Ride Apps – Official yellow taxis are available, but always check that the meter is running. To avoid scams, you can use the BiTaksi app to call a taxi or use Uber, which operates in Istanbul with official taxis.

✔ Walking – Many of Istanbul’s top attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in Sultanahmet. However, be prepared for hilly streets and cobblestone roads, especially in areas like Galata and Balat.

For a full breakdown of transport options, check out my Complete Guide to Getting Around Istanbul! 🚆 ⛴ 🚖

Where to Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul is a huge city with many different neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. Here are some of my favorite areas to stay in:

• Sultanahmet – The heart of historic Istanbul. Perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
• Taksim – A lively area with great nightlife, shopping, and dining. Ideal for those who want to be in the center of modern Istanbul.
• Karaköy – A trendy district with cool cafés, street art, and boutique hotels. It’s also well-connected to the city’s main attractions.
• Beşiktaş – A local favorite with bustling markets, waterfront views, and a young crowd. Great for food lovers and easy ferry access.
• Kadıköy – The best area on the Asian side, with laid-back cafés, vibrant nightlife, and a local feel. Perfect for escaping the tourist crowds.

For a full breakdown of accoomodation options, check out my Complete Guide to Where to Stay Istanbul!

Keep Reading!

Planning to stay in Istanbul a bit longer? Check out my tips for visiting Istanbul in January and explore how the city alive during winter! ❄️

We’ve also got essential guides to help you make the most of your trip:

✔ Where to Stay in Istanbul – The best areas and hotels for every budget.
✔ Must-See Attractions – From Hagia Sophia to Bosphorus cruises, don’t miss these top sights.
✔ Best Food & Drinks in Istanbul – What to eat and where to find the most delicious local dishes.