November in Turkey may signal the arrival of late autumn, and trust me, it’s beautiful. You'll be pleasantly surprised if you’re planning a trip around this time. With crisp air, fewer crowds, and a palette of fall colours across cities and countrysides, November offers a more serene, introspective take on Turkey’s many charms.

While coastal regions like Antalya and Izmir are still relatively mild, central and eastern parts, especially Cappadocia and the Anatolian Plateau, can get chilly, particularly in the mornings and after sundown. Istanbul sees shorter days, light rain, and a cool breeze that gives the city an almost poetic feel, perfect for café hopping and museum visits. This is also the time when hot air balloon rides over Cappadocia feel even more magical, thanks to the low-hanging mist and golden light.

Whether you’re chasing the last of the seaside warmth or exploring the historical sites without the summer rush, November is a great time to experience Turkey in a slower, more reflective rhythm.

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In this post, I’ll discuss Turkey’s regional weather in November, ideal destinations to explore, and practical tips on what to pack for your trip.

What’s the Weather Like in Turkey in November?

Turkey experiences everything in November, from the golden days of autumn to the onset of winter. Thanks to the country’s vast and varied topography, the weather varies significantly across regions. From the sun-drenched Aegean coastlines to the snow-dusted highlands of the east, November offers a unique mix of cool breezes, atmospheric skies, and fall foliage.

Here’s a region-by-region breakdown to help you understand what to expect.

Istanbul & Northwest Turkey

Daytime: 12–17°C (54–63°F) | Nighttime: 7–10°C (45–50°F)

In November, Istanbul starts to slip into winter mode. Expect overcast days, intermittent rain showers, and brisk evenings. The Bosphorus looks particularly romantic in this weather, making it a great time for slow ferry rides, indoor museums, and long Turkish breakfasts in warm cafés. Layering is key, and a rainproof jacket will come in handy.

Cappadocia & Central Anatolia

Daytime: 8–13°C (46–55°F) | Nighttime: 0–5°C (32–41°F)

Cappadocia is stunning in November. While it’s colder than the western regions, the landscape bathed in golden light feels otherworldly. The mornings are chilly—perfect for watching hot air balloons drift across the sky—but daytime remains ideal for hiking and exploring cave churches and fairy chimneys. Snowfall is rare but possible toward the end of the month.

Aegean Coast (Izmir, Ephesus, Bodrum)

Daytime: 15–20°C (59–68°F) | Nighttime: 9–12°C (48–54°F)

The Aegean region enjoys relatively mild weather in November. While the sea is too cold for swimming, the coastal towns are quiet and atmospheric, with fewer tourists and more time to enjoy the ruins of Ephesus or the cobbled alleys of Bodrum. This is shoulder season at its best—cool, peaceful, and culturally rich.

Mediterranean Coast (Antalya, Kas, Fethiye)

Daytime: 17–22°C (63–72°F) | Nighttime: 10–13°C (50–55°F)

The southern coast is one of the warmest regions in Turkey during November. Antalya, in particular, retains a gentle warmth, which is ideal for visiting ancient ruins like Perge or enjoying lunch at a seaside café. While the beaches aren’t at their summer prime, the region is vibrant with citrus harvests and warm hospitality.

Eastern Turkey (Van, Erzurum, Kars)

Daytime: 2–8°C (36–46°F) | Nighttime: -3 to 2°C (27–36°F)

Eastern Turkey is cold in November, and snow may already blanket the mountains. It’s not the most popular time to explore this region unless you're drawn to stark winter landscapes and cultural solitude. However, places like Kars offer a hint of early winter magic, with snow-covered churches and traditional stone architecture.

If you want to know what's the best time to visit Turkey, we have curated a month-by-month guide to help you plan your trip.

Top Destinations to Visit in Turkey in November

• Istanbul: Cool and misty, Istanbul in November is ideal for long walks along the Bosphorus, indulging in Turkish tea at historic cafés, and exploring museums like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace without the heavy tourist flow. It’s also the perfect time to experience a traditional hammam.

• Cappadocia: Chilly mornings and golden light make this fairytale landscape even more surreal. Balloon rides at dawn offer panoramic views of the valleys, while daytime is great for hiking through Göreme, Pasabag, and ancient cave dwellings.

• Antalya & the Mediterranean Coast: In November, Antalya is peaceful and inviting, with warm, sunny days and quiet beaches. Explore Hadrian’s Gate, stroll through the old town of Kaleiçi, or drive the Lycian Way to nearby towns like Kas and Demre.

• Pamukkale: This surreal landscape of white travertine terraces and thermal waters is far less crowded in November. The cooler weather makes climbing the terraces comfortable, and nearby Hierapolis offers ancient ruins to explore.

• Ephesus & Selçuk: Ephesus becomes a time capsule of Roman grandeur with mild days and empty paths. Visit the Library of Celsus, walk the marble streets, and combine your visit with the hilltop House of the Virgin Mary.

• Bursa: Once the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is full of mosques, thermal baths, and silk markets. It’s also known for Iskender kebab and the nearby Uludağ Mountain, which might see its first dusting of snow in November.

• Konya: A deeply spiritual city, Konya is home to the whirling dervishes and the Mevlana Museum. November is a tranquil time to visit its mosques and madrasas, and the cooler air adds to the contemplative atmosphere.

• Safranbolu: This UNESCO-listed Ottoman town is known for its timber-framed houses, narrow alleys, and saffron sweets. With the fall foliage still hanging on, November is a dreamy time for photography and slow travel.

• Mount Nemrut (Eastern Turkey): Though temperatures drop significantly, visiting the summit of Mount Nemrut in early November can be rewarding. The colossal stone heads and statues of ancient gods are surreal in the soft morning light—just dress warmly.

• Göcek & Fethiye: Quiet and charming in November, these towns are perfect for boat trips along the turquoise coast. Under clear skies and cooler temperatures, you can hike sections of the Lycian Way or visit the ancient ghost town of Kayaköy.

• Mardin: Perched above the Mesopotamian plains, Mardin’s golden sandstone buildings glow beautifully in the autumn sun. The city’s mix of Arabic and Kurdish culture, ancient monasteries, and traditional bazaars offers a unique slice of southeastern Turkey.

What to Pack for Turkey in November?

Because Turkey spans multiple climate zones, packing smart is essential. The general rule? Layer up and prepare for chilly evenings and the possibility of rain, especially in the west and north.

• Layered Clothing: Long-sleeved tops, thermal undershirts, light sweaters, and cardigans work well for changing temperatures throughout the day.

• Warm Jacket: Opt for a medium-weight insulated jacket or coat, particularly if you’re visiting inland or high-altitude areas like Cappadocia or Eastern Turkey.

• Rain Jacket or Umbrella: Istanbul and coastal cities can get drizzly, so it’s good to be prepared.

• Scarf and Gloves: Useful in Cappadocia, Eastern Turkey, and even for wind protection in Istanbul.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Many historical sites involve cobblestones or uneven paths. Waterproof options are ideal.

• Hat and Sunglasses: The sun is lower but still strong, especially on clear days in Cappadocia and along the coast.

• Swimwear (Optional): If you plan to visit thermal springs in Pamukkale or stay in a resort with a heated pool or hammam, pack accordingly.

Why Visit Turkey in November?

November is one of Turkey’s most underrated months for travel. It brings fewer tourists, more authentic local interactions, and better prices on accommodations and flights. Whether you're wandering through the art-filled streets of Istanbul, exploring ancient ruins without the heat, or gazing over Cappadocia’s valleys in crisp morning air, Turkey in November rewards the traveller who doesn’t mind a little chill in the air in exchange for peace, reflection, and beauty.

It’s a month that invites you to slow down, sip salep (a traditional warm drink), and experience Turkey’s layers of history, culture, and landscape in a quieter, more intimate way.