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Is November good time to go to Istanbul

Me and my family are planning to go to Turkey/ Istanbul in November first week, Is that a good time? What care should I be taking with my 2 daughters (1yr and 4 yr old).

Thanks in Advance.

Posted by
484 posts

I was in Istanbul at the end of November several years ago and it was cold. There were some sunny days, rainy days and days with snow flurries, but every day was still cold. Most of the site-seeing was indoors but it was not much fun walking around.
I think it might be fine for adults and the weather may not be as bad but it would be tough on the little ones if its very cold/rainy.

This from the Turkey Travel Planner
**Winter (November, December, January, February, March) can be chill and rainy, with occasional cold but sunny days, everywhere except the southeast, which remains temperate, but lower prices and fewer tourists are compensations. I often travel to Turkey in March and November to benefit from the lower prices, better availability of hotel rooms, and lack of crowds.**

Posted by
15579 posts

I was there in 2013 toward the end of October for a week, then back for a day in early November. The weather varied between pleasantly warm and pleasantly cool. I think it's a good time to go because there will be many fewer tourists. If there's some rain, there are lots of indoor sights.

Normal caution with small children . . . brightly colored clothes so you can spot the 4-year old easily if she gets away from you. Avoid crowds - rush hour on the trams, Sunday is the worst day for the Spice Market, absolutely packed.

Posted by
338 posts

I'll echo some of what's already been said. It could be cool to cold, especially later in the month. If it is cold there may also be more haze/smoke. Although its been a few years since I was in Istanbul in November, I recall a smoke smell in the air and haze from wood burning/fireplaces. That may be a consideration if someone has asthma or is sensative.

Weather and potential air quality issues aside, Istanbul is a modern city that is bustling all year round. November is a pretty good time to visit as a tourist. All of the tourist sites will be open, but may have shorter hours. They will also have much smaller crowds.

I have less to offer for help with your daughters. I have not been to Istanbul with children that young. If this is your first time in Istanbul, you should stay in the Sultanahmet area since that is where most of the top tourist sites are located. I'd check to make sure your hotel has an elevator. When you arrive you can ask them where you can buy any extras you might need (e.g. diapers). I'd also do a bit of research into how to move around. I'm not sure how the public transportation system addresses fares for children. Since you have a one year old, you might want to just use taxis. They are easy to find and will not be expensive for short trips.

Have fun!

Posted by
2 posts

Thanks for responding to my question. This is very helpful to plan my trip.
Is there any suggestion what to see in four days in Istanbul and near by...
I am planning to go to Blue mosque and Grand Bazaar for sure.

Posted by
90 posts

November is totally good month for weather and for cheap travel. Its not that cold and it is not going to snow!. I am from Istanbul!. It can rain but definitely not cold!

Posted by
15579 posts

I liked the Spice Bazaar very much (Sunday is the worst day to go, though - super crowded), and there's a lovely mosque right around the corner. Other faves: Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, The Hagia Sofia, Archaeology Museums, Underground Cistern, Topkapi Palace.