Istanbul

Bus & minivan tours

With warm weather, clear skies, and the Istanbul Music Festival filling the air with classical sounds, Istanbul in June comes alive with outdoor energy. The weather is perfect for scenic ferry rides across the Bosphorus, strolling through the colorful Balat district, and exploring the sprawling courtyards of Topkapi Palace.

As summer's peak tourist season begins, there are countless things to do in Istanbul, from shopping in the lively Grand Bazaar to sipping Turkish tea in terraces along the Bosphorus waterfront. If you're wondering what to do in Istanbul in June, this is everything you need to know.

Why go to Istanbul in June?

June brings ideal sightseeing weather

Istanbul in June offers ideal sightseeing weather. It falls right before the summer heat peaks, bringing warm and sunny days without stifling temperatures and harsh humidity. This makes it the perfect time to explore Istanbul's iconic landmarks, such as wandering through the courtyards of Topkapi Palace and strolling through the gardens of the Dolmabahçe Palace.

Events and festivals bring an energy to Istanbul's streets

What is Istanbul like in June? It's one of the city's liveliest months, filled with music, cultural celebrations, and the prestigious Istanbul Music Festival. You can expect lively open-air concerts flooding the city and film screenings under the stars, many of which are free to attend.

Longer days and later nights

The extended daylight hours of Istanbul in summer give you more time to explore and allow you to pack more into your itinerary. You can wake up early for a long day of sightseeing and still have time to watch the sunset over the city and enjoy the many evening activities.

June kicks off the tourist season, but with fewer crowds

As Istanbul's tourist season begins, the city starts getting busier, but it’s still not quite as crowded as during the peak summer months of July and August. Hotel prices are still fairly reasonable, and you won’t have to wait in line all day to visit iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

It's the perfect time to browse Istanbul’s open-air markets

June's pleasant weather makes it an ideal time to wander through Istanbul’s many markets. While the historic Grand Bazaar is mainly covered, the streets around it are lined with vendors, offering a lively open-air shopping experience on a sunny day.

What's the weather like in Istanbul in June?

Istanbul's weather in June is warm with low humidity and relatively little rain. With the sun rising at 5:30 AM and setting at around 8:15 PM, you can enjoy 14-15 daylight hours, expanding your sightseeing opportunities. The balance of sunshine and comfortable humidity makes it the perfect time to visit — just make sure to bring light layers and sunscreen.

• Average day temperature: 81 F (27 C)
• Average night temperature: 64 F (18 C)
• Average days of rain: 5
• Average days of sun: 20

Top things to do in Istanbul in June

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with fun things to do in Istanbul. From iconic landmarks to unique experiences, the city offers endless possibilities. Wander through captivating neighborhoods, traverse the Grand Bazaar’s labyrinth, cruise the enchanting Bosphorus, or enjoy Istanbul’s lively nightlife.

Explore the rich arts scene, blending traditional and contemporary influences, and uncover hidden gems tucked in narrow alleys and historic buildings. Istanbul’s activities are as diverse as the city itself, offering delights like mesmerizing whirling dervish performances and the aromatic sensory feast of spice markets. Every step reveals something new to discover.

Step into Istanbul's enchanting narrative, where East meets West and millennia of history unfold. From Byzantine churches to Ottoman palaces, the city’s architectural landmarks are living chronicles of its vibrant past. Savor diverse street food in Istanbul, find tranquil moments by the Bosphorus, and watch the sunset paint the sky. Whether you're exploring bustling bazaars or serene gardens, Istanbul's magic weaves through every experience. Explore this city straddling two continents, where each historic landmark offers a journey through time and culture.

Istanbul’s landmarks at a glance

Most-visited landmark: The Hagia Sophia

Oldest landmark: The Basilica Cistern, constructed in the 6th century

Largest green space: Belgrad Forest, with over 5,800 hectares

There is something for everyone in Istanbul, the city has been a fascinating travel destination for thousands of years. Many civilizations have controlled the city and left their own distinctive mark on its cuisine. Despite the fact that the city is spread across two continents, the food scene has many classics.

Simit is a staple in Istanbul’s food stalls and bakeries. Often referred to as the Turkish bagel, this crunchy sesame-crusted bread is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re wandering through the historic Sultanahmet district or exploring the vibrant streets of Taksim, you’ll find simit vendors at every corner.

What is simit?

Simit is a braided, circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds. Common throughout Turkey, it is well loved for its crispy exterior and soft interior, simit is often enjoyed plain or with accompaniments like cheese, olives, or jam.

It’s a popular snack you’ll see people enjoying all over Istanbul, whether relaxing in cafes or grabbing a quick bite from street vendors.

Why is Istanbul so well-known for simit?

Istanbul has cherished simit for hundreds of years, with vendors selling it as early as the 16th century. In the centuries that followed it became popular among nobles, and Turkish sultans often gifted the bread to their soldiers during Ramadan.

Today, Turkish citizens from all walks of life enjoy simit. It’s more than just a snack; it represents Istanbul’s street food scene and serves as a signature bread of Turkey.

What is the best time to eat simit in Istanbul?

Many people enjoy simit plain, paired with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee to start their day. Street vendors and bakeries offer fresh simit throughout the day — making it a convenient snack.

Whether plain or with cheese or fruit preserves, there isn’t really a wrong way to enjoy this treat.