The end of summer is the most popular time to vacation in Turkey, but it's important to consider that it's also the hottest time of the year. It's recommended to book your trip to the country in advance, preferably several months before your planned travel date.
Features of holidays in Turkey in August
In August, the temperature can rise up to +40°С.
The cost of holidays increases by 20% compared to other months. So, the minimum amount that one person will have to pay for a weekly vacation is 550 USD or 1650 TYR.
All beaches in Turkey are almost overcrowded with vacationers.
If you're travelling with a child, remember the three "August whales": scorching sun, sea as warm as milk, and crowded beaches. It's essential to have a sun hat and sunscreen specifically designed for babies.
August is not the best time for people with respiratory conditions and hypertension to vacation due to the high temperatures and potential health risks.
Weather conditions in Turkey
The mercury readings in Turkey are characterized by high temperatures. Despite the country's generally mild climate, it can be quite hot and humid during the day, while evenings tend to be cooler. The high humidity in certain areas can exacerbate the situation.
In the eastern part of the country, sea water warms up to + 270C, and in the western side, it is a little colder, by 2-3 degrees. The sea breeze and water provide some relief from the heat, but away from the coast, the humidity is noticeably felt.
Weather in different regions of the country
Temperature indicators in different regions of the country are consistently high.
In Istanbul, daily figures are +29.4°C.
In Antalya, the temperature rises to +34.7°C.
In Kemer, the air warms up to +32.8°С.
In Alanya, the temperature reaches +32.5°C.
Kusadasi boldly holds the mark of +34.4°С.
In Bodrum, the thermometer shows +31.6°С.
In Pamukkale, the air warms up to +32.7°C.
Which resorts in Turkey are worth visiting in August
Most hotels in the country are located on the first line of the sea. The beaches are clean and well-maintained, with clear and warm water. When choosing a resort for your vacation, consider a few nuances.
Antalya
Antalya experiences moderate humidity with noticeable stuffiness, making the heat more challenging to bear. The eastern part of Antalya, with its sandy beaches, is ideal for families with children. Most of the beaches are situated in bays, providing protection from the wind. Access to the water is only possible via stairs.
The western part of the resort is characterized by pebble beaches. It is suitable for confident swimmers, as the depth of the water is constantly growing.
Kemer
Kemer's pebble beach and incredibly transparent sea, along with its well-maintained shoreline, are its trademarks. It is advisable to wear protective footwear when swimming. The villages of Çamyuva, Tekirova, and Kirish are suitable for a family weekend getaway. The heat and humidity are less intense here due to the proximity of the mountains. The stuffiness only sets in with the arrival of twilight.
Belek
Sunbathing on the beaches of Belek is best done early in the morning or in the evening. The midday heat is intense. The majority of the coastline is divided among hotels that take care of its maintenance. Belek is widely recognized as the best place in all of Turkey for a family vacation. It boasts numerous pine and eucalyptus groves, children's playgrounds, and amusement parks.
Alanya
Alanya is renowned for its expansive sandy Cleopatra Beach. The water has a gentle slope, and there are plenty of water activities available. In the village of Incekum, there are plantings of phytoncide coniferous trees that contribute to the prevention of respiratory diseases.
Kusadasi
This resort is located on the coast of the Aegean Sea. The rainfall here is infrequent. The beaches are sandy and well-equipped with facilities.
Marmaris
Marmaris is often compared to a European resort due to its high level of service and well-developed infrastructure. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful vacation with children or go snorkelling and explore the city for entertainment.
Fethiye
One of Fethiye's unique features is that it is surrounded by the waters of both the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. The hotels are located away from the sea, and there are no beaches in the immediate vicinity. Visitors can sunbathe on neighboring islands or in the bay. The presence of mountains slightly moderates the climate.
Things to do in Turkey in August
In August, Turkey offers various activities and attractions despite the hot weather. Here are some options to make the most of your time:
Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the beautiful beaches and clear waters of Turkey's coastline. Take evening walks to ancient sites such as the Hadrian's Gate in Antalya, the medieval fortress in Alanya, the Castle of St. Peter in Bodrum, or visit the ancient site of "Rocks of Good Fortune."
August is the perfect time to visit museums. In Turkey, there is the Museum of Marine Biology (Antalya), the Museum of Underwater Archeology (Bodrum), the Museum of Steam Locomotives (Kusadasi), and historical museums.
Nature Excursions: Venture into nature and discover Turkey's natural wonders. Take a hike to the Koprulu and Goynuk Canyons, visit the Kurshunlu and Manavgat Waterfalls, or explore the Damlatas Cave.
There are many water parks (The Land of Legends, Aqualand, Dolu Su), attractions (Aktur Park), dolphinariums (Sealanya Sea Park) and oceanariums, as well as amusement parks.
In addition, in August, a grand Turkish holiday Victory Day or Zafer Bayram takes place. It is celebrated on August 30th. Another fun celebration is honey day. A competition for the sweet tooth is held on the square, where you need to eat 2 kg of this sweet product at a speed.
August in Turkey is an opportunity to embrace the last days of summer in the East and enjoy the hot days while exploring the diverse attractions the country has to offer.