Weather in Istanbul in July

How July compares

July is the 2nd warmest month of the year in Istanbul and ranks 86th of 134 destinations we compare for July - see where else is hot in July. Within Turkey it is 16th of 18 (Turkey in July). Against London's average high of 21.8°C in July, Istanbul is 5.8°C warmer by day and 7.6°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in July

The typical July day in Istanbul peaks at 27.6°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 30.3°C or more. About 88% of days top 25°C and 1 in 7 pass 30°C. Nights average 21.1°C; one night in ten drops to 19.1°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest July day here reached 35.3°C (2000-07-13) and the coldest night 15.9°C (1992-07-02).

Rain in July

Some rain (4-8 rainy days): about 4 days with 1 mm or more, 19 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest July was 1995 with 72 mm, the driest 2012 with 1 mm. Humidity averages 70%.

Sea temperature in July

The sea averages 23.5°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 22.5°C to 24.6°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (24.4°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 11.8 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 14.7 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 05:45 and sets about 20:35 local time in mid-July. Average cloud cover is 19%.

Is July a good time to visit Istanbul?

Yes - it is one of the better months: hot days, manageable rain and long sunny days. The best months for Istanbul on our scoring are August, July, June; months averaging 25°C or more: Jul, Aug.

Expect heat, but not constant extremes

July feels noticeably warmer than London, with average daytime highs of 27.6°C against London's 21.8°C. The catch is not just the temperature: humidity of 70% can make walking feel sticky, particularly when you are in direct sun. Days reach 30°C on 14% of occasions, so that level of heat is possible rather than the everyday expectation. Put your more energetic plans earlier in the day, keep water handy and leave room for a shaded lunch or an indoor pause. If you prefer cool conditions for long walks, July is a compromise rather than an obvious choice.

Plenty of light, with occasional rain

About 11.8 hours of sunshine within 14.7 hours of daylight gives you plenty of scope to spend time outside without doing everything at midday. That flexibility is useful in the heat: a slower afternoon need not mean giving up your outdoor plans. Rain falls on about 4 days, so pack a light waterproof or compact umbrella, but do not build the whole trip around wet-weather alternatives. Sunshine is the more consistent consideration. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, and choose clothing that feels comfortable in warm, humid conditions. A dry forecast still calls for sensible breaks from the sun.

Warm enough for a swim, warm after dark

The sea averages 23.5°C in July, making swimming a reasonable part of your plans rather than something reserved for people who enjoy cold water. The year-to-year range of 22°C to 25°C stays within swimming territory, though how comfortable it feels will depend on your preference. For a city trip, treat time by the water as an option rather than the basis for every day. Back on land, average night lows of 21.1°C mean the warmth carries into the evening. Breathable clothes should earn their place in your bag, and accommodation with cooling is a sensible priority if warm nights affect your sleep.