Average 11°C / 52 °F; damp chill with short cold snaps
December in Istanbul brings misty mornings, sparkling Bosphorus lights, and a festive energy without the summer chaos. Wander decorated bazaars, sip salep in tiled courtyards, or admire mosque domes dusted in frost. Early December is peaceful; by month’s end, the city gears up for fireworks and year-end sales. Lines are short, but evenings get lively—dress warm and explore.
| Category | November | December | January |
|---|---|---|---|
Weather | Chilly, ~15 °C / 59 °F | Damp cold, 11 °C / 52 °F | Coldest; snow likely late month |
Crowds & vibe | Low, cultural fests | Calm early, festive late | Low, post-NYE lull |
Key events | Atatürk Memorial Day | Christmas lights, NYE | Orthodox Epiphany |
Best for | Culture buffs, deal seekers | Shoppers, photographers | Winter dreamers |
Book early? | No, plenty of room | Yes for Dec 31 | No unless Orthodox events |
Transport notes | Smooth, no issues | NYE ferry crowds | Fog delays possible |
Budget | Low to moderate | Spikes late Dec | Low again |
| Event | Dates | Event Type | Location | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
New Year’s Eve Bosphorus Fireworks | 31 Dec 2025 | Public Celebration | Ortaköy → Karaköy | Midnight fireworks over the strait. Book Bosphorus dinner cruises or join crowds along the shore. |
Christmas Eve Services | 24 Dec 2025 | Religious Ceremony | St. Antoine Church, İstiklal | Largest Christmas Eve mass in Istanbul with carols and candles. Doors open ~6:30 pm. |
Winter Shopping Festival | Ongoing through Dec 2025 | Shopping Event | Citywide malls & bazaars | Year-end discounts and festive décor. Zorlu & Istinye Park malls are key stops. Great for Turkish design finds. |
Istanbul Theater Festival | Until 10 Dec 2025 (TBC) | Performing Arts | Theaters in Beyoğlu & Kadıköy | Final performances of this stage arts festival. Reserve ahead for English-subtitled shows. |
Istanbul International Short Film Festival | 2–7 Dec 2025 | Film Festival | Akbank Sanat & Beyoğlu cinemas | Screenings of shorts and student films. Affordable, often subtitled in English. Indoors, cinephile-friendly. |
Ortaköy Christmas Market | Mid–late Dec 2025 (TBC) | Holiday Market | Ortaköy Square | Stalls with crafts, ornaments, and mulled wine near the Bosphorus mosque. Magical at night with lights and music. |
1. Take Bosphorus Cruises around 4 pm to catch sunset and city lights without freezing on deck.
2. Cafes close early in winter. If you find one open past 10 pm, linger.
3. Mosque floors get icy—wear thick socks if removing shoes.
4. Istanbulkart saves money on trams, ferries, and buses. Grab one at the airport or tram stops.
5. Avoid Grand Bazaar on weekends. Weekday mornings mean better bargaining and less crowding.
6. Dress in layers—interiors are heated, but streets can be damp and chilly.
7. Many museums close by 5 pm in winter. Start early to fit in two or three.
8. Rain showers hit fast. Keep a foldable umbrella in your bag.
9. New Year’s Eve dinner cruises book weeks ahead. Reserve by early December.
It’s chilly, especially after sunset. Expect temperatures around 11 °C / 52 °F, with damp air. Snow is rare but possible late month.
Yes—fewer crowds, festive lights, and cozy food. It’s ideal for museum days, local shopping, and New Year’s celebrations.
Most stay open year-round. Check for shorter hours—many museums close by 5 pm. Some sites close on Mondays.
Layered clothes, waterproof shoes, warm coat, scarf, gloves. Interiors are well-heated, so layers help balance temperatures.
Yes, especially in Ortaköy and some malls. They focus on crafts, lights, and seasonal foods—not traditional German-style markets.
Not widely—Turkey is secular and majority Muslim. But lights, sales, and church services create a festive vibe in parts of the city.
Yes, though crowds gather near the Bosphorus. Stick to well-lit areas, use licensed transport, and book early for events.
Most operate normally—Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Turkey.
Use trams, ferries, and the metro. Istanbulkart is essential. Avoid taxis in wet weather due to traffic.
Absolutely—opt for enclosed boats or afternoon sailings. Sunset cruises around 4 pm are scenic and not too cold.
Yes—and it’s a perfect time for one. Many offer seasonal spa packages. Booking in advance is recommended.
Occasionally. Light flurries are possible late in the month, but it’s not guaranteed. Snowy rooftops = rare bonus.
Busier than early December, especially near NYE. Expect crowds in malls, Istiklal, and along the Bosphorus.
Yes—round up in taxis, and leave 5–10% in restaurants or cafes if service is good. Use ferries as transport—they’re cheap, scenic, and warm inside.
