Turkey is considered to be exclusively a seaside resort. And this is not surprising, given the presence in the country of four seas with gorgeous beaches, and fairly loyal prices for holidays. However, we will try to prove that visiting Turkey in December will also be interesting for any tourist.
December weather in Turkey
In the resorts of Turkey, the winter is very mild, and you will not see snow here. On average, air temperature ranges from +10….+15°C, at night it can drop to +5°C. In coastal regions, the weather changes rapidly, the sun is replaced by clouds, there are heavy rains and strong winds.
An interesting fact, sea water temperature in December is higher than air temperature. In the Aegean Sea, it can reach +16°С, in other seas - up to +20°С. But, of course, due to strong storms, swimming in the sea is prohibited.
Important! In December, air humidity in Turkey can reach 80%. Be sure to dress warmly, wear a hat and bring a raincoat.
Prices in December
December in Turkey is considered the low season, so the prices for housing, travel and excursions are more than loyal. And you are guaranteed to enjoy the lack of queues, and the opportunity to relax in seclusion.
Where to Vacation in Turkey
To enjoy your December vacation to the fullest, it's essential to choose the right destination.
Istanbul
A stunning historic city. We recommend staying here if you want to experience the true Turkish spirit. Istanbul has a unique atmosphere:
Skyscrapers, towers, and shopping malls give way to narrow streets, ancient temples, mosques, and local markets.
The Bosphorus is the city’s crown jewel. A boat ride on the strait, sipping hot tea and feeding the seagulls, is pure pleasure.
Seaside Resorts
Most hotels on Turkey's coast are closed in winter. But in Alanya, Kemer, Side, and Antalya, there are 5-star hotel complexes with heated indoor pools and SPA centers.
These cities have well-developed tourist infrastructure with aquariums, zoos, and amusement parks to visit.
Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the experience in local malls.
There are also several interesting museums for history lovers.
Turkey’s Ski Resorts
In central Turkey, winter is colder than on the southern coast. In December, ski resorts open for visitors. At altitudes of 1700–3000 meters, there is plenty of snow for skiing and snowboarding. Popular mountain lodges in Uludağ and Palandöken are great for family holidays.
What to Do in Turkey in December
If you get bored with hotel relaxation and spa treatments, Turkey always offers plenty of entertainment options to suit your taste.
Shopping
Turkey is famous for its vibrant local bazaars. Be sure to pick up memorable souvenirs, spices, rose water, and traditional coffee pots (cezves).
Must-visit markets:
Grand Bazaar and Kapalıçarşı in Istanbul.
Central Market in Antalya.
Textile Market in Kemer.
Oriental Bazaar in Alanya.
Excursions
From any Turkish city, you can easily book a bus tour to popular attractions.
Popular destinations:
Pamukkale;
Cappadocia;
City sightseeing tours in Alanya;
Pilgrimage trips to Demre.
Festivals
In December, two traditional festivals are held in Turkey.
The Mevlana festival lasts a week. It takes place in the city of Konya in central Anatolia. The most interesting sight is the unique dance of whirling dervishes.
The Golden Pistachio festival is held in the town of Gaziantep in southern Turkey.
Health
Winter is a great time to take care of your health. Moreover, you will find here many spa centers, massage parlors and a Turkish sauna - a hammam.
Restaurants
In Turkey, there are many establishments with traditional dishes, sweets and drinks. We recommend that you try salep. This viscous drink, a bit like semolina, is made from grated orchid tubers with the addition of milk and spices.
New Year in Turkey
Until 1935, the Turks celebrated the New Year on the first Saturday of January. It was not considered a day off, and it was not customary to put up a Christmas tree in Turkey according to Muslim traditions. But now the New Year is celebrated on a grand scale, especially in Ankara and Istanbul. The city is decorated with festive illuminations, Christmas melodies sound from everywhere and fireworks thunder.
Most hotels offer their guests a New Year's show program and a chic dinner. And the celebration at the ski resorts is more like our traditional New Year, with snow and Christmas trees.
In Turkey, even in the low season, you can find a lot of interesting things and have a great rest. Plus, affordable prices and lack of crowds of tourists await you.
