Top 10 Things to Do Turkey in September: Travel Tips, Weather & Events

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LOOKING FOR WHAT TO DO IN TURKEY IN SEPTEMBER?

Turkey in September is when you see a break in the summer humidity and fewer travelers, making it a great time to plan a trip to Turkey. September ushers in fall and all that it has to offer for guests to Turkey. With events like Grape Harvest Festivals, Coffee Festivals, and Art Festivals there’s plenty to do in addition to the classics.

Read on to learn more about weather, events, what to do, and travel tips for your Turkey itinerary in September.

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Cappadocia in September

Top 10 Things to Do in Turkey in September

1. Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul

September is the perfect month to take to the water for a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul. A private cruise to enjoy the Istanbul skyline along with the views of the Ottoman palaces and mansions from the 19th & 20th centuries.

2. Cappadocia Hiking and Hot Air Balloon Ride

September in Cappadocia is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. With cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect time to take to the many hiking trails through the valleys to explore the landscapes, fairy chimneys, and cave churches. If you take a hot air balloon ride, be sure to dress in layers as the temps will be cooler in the early morning at take-off.

3. Turkish Coast Beach Days

Visit the Turkish Coast in September to skip the crowds of the previous high season months of July and August. In September in Turkey on the beach, you’ll have less humidity but still have the warm temperatures to enjoy the water and plentiful sunshine. Not only can you enjoy the beach, take a boat tour to enjoy snorkeling and swimming on the coast.

If the beach isn’t your thing, you can visit local ruins like Aspendos, Termessos, or Perge.

4. Hike the Lycian Way

The ancient Lycian Way runs from Fethiye to Antalya on the Mediterranean coast.  You can take the month to get outside and hike the entire trail, or you can choose a few sections to hike. The drop in humidity makes the temperatures perfect for hiking the trail with your family.

5. Visit Turkish Wineries

September is the largest month for grape harvesting in Turkey. Take a local wine tour in the most popular wine regions of Turkey in the Aegean, Mediterranean & Cappadocia. You’ll find grape harvesting festivals in the famous wine-making areas of Turkey. Most festivals include music and activities, tastings, and local vendors selling their handicrafts. Continue reading for a list of the most popular harvest festivals in Turkey.

6. Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus

Visiting the Ancient City of Ephesus in September provides a unique experience of Turkey’s rich history. As you walk in the same paths where Apostle Paul and John once trod, you’ll feel like a time traveler transported back to Roman antiquity. From the awe-inspiring monuments like the colossal Great Theatre and the beautiful Celsus Library to the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, Ephesus offers a journey through time. It’s an absolute must-visit for history buffs and explorers.

7. Take a Tour of the 7 Churches of Revelation

Embark on a September tour to explore Turkey’s Seven Churches of Revelation. Discover historic Christian landmarks amidst the pleasant autumn climate. This Bible-oriented adventure takes you to ancient ruins and landmarks in Pergamum, Thyatira, and Laodicea. Visit the dramatic Acropolis of Pergamum, see the Altar of Zeus, and wander among the marble columns of the Temple of Trajan.

The tour also includes the historically rich cities of Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Experience Hierapolis and explore the ancient city of Ephesus with the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis. Complete your journey with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary.

8. Canyoning at Goynuk Canyon in Antalya

Experience the thrill of canyoning at Goynuk Canyon in Antalya. Goynuk Canyon is one of our family’s favorite activities with the kids. It’s the perfect adventure for the September weather on the Turkish coast. Explore the natural pools and ponds along the canyon road, and take a refreshing swim in the canyon, hiking back to a beautiful waterfall.

9. Beach Day at Oludeniz Beach in Fethiye

Spend an unforgettable day at Oludeniz Beach in Fethiye, known for its stunning blue lagoon and soft white sand. In the warm September climate, take to the skies with paragliding for panoramic views of Turkey’s exquisite scenery. Enjoy water sports or rent paddle boats to explore the shore’s crystal clear waters. Close the day by relaxing on the beach at this breathtaking destination.

10. Visit Gallipoli – the WWI & Memorial Site

A visit to Gallipoli in September offers a moving journey through history. The pleasant autumn weather allows a comfortable exploration of this significant World War I site.

Start at Brighton Beach, the intended landing place on April 25th. Then, proceed to ANZAC Cove, the actual site of the first landing and the main base for the Allied troops. Don’t miss the Ariburnu Cemetery at the northern tip of ANZAC Cove, a solemn spot to honor the fallen.

Visit the Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Johnston’s Jolly as well. Finally, conclude your tour at the 57th Regiment Turkish Memorial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sacrifices made here.

Next, learn about the best places to go in Turkey in September.

Best Places to Go

Turkey offers a wide range of beautiful destinations to explore in September. In Istanbul, the largest city, you can immerse yourself in history and culture with iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, as well as the vibrant Grand Bazaar.

For a unique experience, visit Cappadocia with its stunning rock formations and underground cities, best enjoyed with a sunrise hot air balloon ride.

If you’re looking for idyllic beaches and ancient ruins, visit Antalya and the Mediterranean Coast, known for their turquoise waters and archaeological wonders.

The ancient city of Ephesus and the breathtaking Pamukkale terraces offer a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Lastly, explore the Aegean Sea, where olive groves meet blue seas with charming villages to explore.

Next, we’ll look at some of the favorite events in September in Turkey.

Istanbul Coffee Festival September

September Events

Grape Harvesting Festivals

The most popular grape harvesting festivals in Turkey happen from September through October. Many of the festivals include music concerts, vendors selling homemade jams and jewelry, and other local products. Make sure to book your hotels early if you’re planning on attending the grape harvesting festivals, as the local hotels will fill up.

  •             Bozcaada Culture, Art and Vintage Grape Harvest Festival
  •             Denizli Grape Harvest Festival
  •             Elazig Grape Harvest Festival
  •             Gokceaalan Grape Festival

International Avanos World Dance Festival

See performers from all over the world promote their traditional dance, culture, and heritage through dance at the International Avanos World Dance Festival in September. Also, you can make a stop at a local pottery making working shop for a hands-on experience.

Istanbul Coffee Festival

The Istanbul Coffee Festival brings coffee from all over the world for coffee lovers to taste. The coffee festival is 4 days long in September. It’s held close to Taksim Square in Kucuk Ciftlik Park in Istanbul. A family-friendly event with coffee workshops, tastings, seminars, and competitions.

International Istanbul Biennial Art Festival

Every year the Istanbul Foundation for Art and Culture hosts the Istanbul Biennial, setting up art exhibits in various Istanbul neighborhoods promoting diversity, community, co-creation and collaboration. Get more information on the Art Festival.

Izmir International Fair

Every year the Istanbul Foundation for Art and Culture hosts the Istanbul Biennial, setting up art exhibits in various Istanbul neighborhoods promoting diversity, community, co-creation and collaboration. Get more information on the Art Festival

Food Fest Antalya

Head down to Karaalioglu Park in the Antalya city center to enjoy three 3 days of food at Food Fest Antalya. The park is right on the cliffs next to Kale Ici, making it easy to get to and walk around the for the festival.

Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

Weather in Turkey in September

In September, the temperatures are still warm making it an ideal time to visit with fewer crowds. On the Turkish coast, the sea is still warm and perfect for swimming. You’ll see slightly cooler temperatures from the hot summer months as you move into mid to late September. In late September in Istanbul, the weather can be somewhat unpredictable with some chances of rain. September is a great time to visit Turkey since the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring the cities on foot.

Average Temperatures in September in Turkey

Marmara Region

Istanbul, Edirne, Canakkale, Bursa

17°C – 24° C |  63° F – 75° F

Central Turkey

Cappadocia, Ankara, Konya
9° C – 27° C | 55° F – 80° F

Mediterranean Coast

Antalya, Kas, Fethiye 
20° C – 32° C | 68° F – 89° F

Aegean Coast

Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Bodrum
20° C – 32° C | 68° F – 89° F

Southeast Turkey

Gaziantep, Mardin, Mt. Nemrut
20° C – 35° C | 65° F – 95° F

Eastern Turkey

Van, Mt. Ararat, Kars
20° C – 26° C | 68°F – 79° F

Black Sea

Trabzon, Rize, Samsun
18°C – 24°C | 64°F – 75°F

Next, we’ll look at what to pack to visit Turkey in September.

September in Turkey Weather

What to Pack for Turkey in September

Layers are key when packing for Turkey in September. You may see cooler evenings and mornings later in the month and still have nice warm days. If you go to the coast, you’ll still be able to enjoy warm beach days, so beach wear is a must.  Following are the must-have items to pack for a trip to Turkey in September:

  • Tshirts & Long Sleeve Shirts for layering
  • Shorts for daytime or travel to the coast
  • Pants for evenings later in September when it gets cooler
  • Light Jacket for early mornings and evenings
  • Umbrella for the unpredictable weather in Istanbul in mid to late September
  • Scarf for layering in the evenings or visiting religious sites.
  • Swimsuit for beach days

Also, don’t miss our Turkey Packing Guide for everything to include on your packing list.

Hike the Lycian Way September

Final Thoughts on September in Turkey

We love traveling with family in Turkey in September and always look forward to traveling in the fall.  The weather is a little cooler and pleasant, making it the perfect time to get outside and explore.

Check out other months to travel in Turkey

Some links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission if you book through these links, and that helps keep this blog running.

Turkey in September