Istanbul weather in December.
Mostly mild; expect a few rainy days but locals-only vibes.
High
11°C
52°F
Low
5°C
41°F
Sea
10°C
Brisk
Rain
116mm
Monthly total
Sun
3h/day
Daily average
Other months in Istanbul
FAQ
Honest answers about December.
Is Istanbul good in December?+
Mostly mild; expect a few rainy days but locals-only vibes. Average daytime highs are 11°C with overnight lows around 5°C, and sea temperature is approximately 10°C.
What should I pack for Istanbul in December?+
Warm layers, a proper coat, and waterproofs. Evening temperatures drop to 5°C.
Can I swim in the sea at Istanbul in December?+
It's chilly at 10°C. Cold-water swimmers will love it; most UK travellers will prefer the heated pool.
How busy is Istanbul in December?+
Crowd level: low. Wonderfully quiet. You will sometimes feel like you have the place to yourself.
What does a trip to Istanbul in December cost?+
Pricing tier: low. Villas, hotels, and flights move with crowd levels. Off-peak pricing means real bargains on villas and 4–5★ hotels.
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