Last spring, I guided a small group through Istanbul's quiet morning streets at dawn. As we rounded the corner near Süleymaniye Mosque, one of my guests gasped. The rising sun painted the ancient dome in gold, while thousands of tulips swayed in the courtyard's gentle breeze. "I never knew Turkey had tulips." she whispered. I smiled, sharing how these flowers originated here before making their way to the Netherlands.

These moments - watching visitors discover Türkiye's unexpected treasures - remind me why I love being a guide in this remarkable country.

You can book my old city Istanbul walking tour here:

As someone who's led countless travellers through Türkiye's diverse landscapes for over a decade, I'm often asked: 

"When is the best time to visit Turkey?"

The answer unfolds like a Turkish coffee fortune reading - it depends on what stories you want your journey to tell. 

From the sun-warmed stones of ancient cities to the mist-wrapped mountains of the Black Sea, each season writes its own unique tale. 

Let me share the secrets I've gathered from years of showing travellers the hidden rhythms of Turkish seasons.

Spring: The Sweet Spot (March to May)

Spring stands out as the prime season for exploring Türkiye. Temperatures hover between 15-22°C (59-72°F), creating perfect conditions for wandering through ancient ruins and cityscapes. Istanbul transforms during April's Tulip Festival, with millions of flowers painting the city in vibrant colours.

Local Insight: Visit Topkapi Palace gardens early morning in April. The morning light creates stunning photo opportunities with tulips framing the historic architecture, and you'll avoid the midday crowds.

Summer: Coastal Paradise (June to August)

Showcases its finest features during summer. The Mediterranean waters reach a pleasant 25°C (77°F), perfect for swimming and boat trips. However, prepare for temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) inland.

Money-Saving Tip: While coastal areas command premium prices, Cappadocia offers surprising summer deals. Luxury cave hotels often reduce rates by 20%, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travellers seeking unique experiences.

Check here for the best hotel deals for Cappadocia

Booking.com

Autumn: Cultural Gold (September to November)

Fall brings Türkiye's most balanced weather, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. Istanbul reveals its authentic character during these months - local neighbourhoods buzz with activity, and rooftop restaurants offer spectacular views without summer crowds.

Local Secret: October in Cappadocia coincides with the grape harvest. Join small-group vineyard tours to taste local wines and learn about the region's 4,000-year-old wine-making tradition.

Winter: Hidden Treasures (December to February)

Winter presents Türkiye's most affordable travel season. Istanbul's luxury hotels slash prices by up to 40%, while ancient sites offer peaceful exploration without crowds. The snow-covered landscapes of Eastern Türkiye create spectacular photo opportunities.

Insider Tip: Book Istanbul's historic hammams for early morning sessions in winter. The centuries-old bathing ritual becomes even more magical when steam rises against cold winter air.

When to Visit Turkey Based on Your Interests:

History Buffs: March-May or September-November

• Comfortable temperatures for exploring archaeological sites 

• Shorter queues at museums

• Better photography conditions