Istanbul · Turkey
March
Spring begins — warming and brightening, with still-manageable crowds.
Strong option
#5 of 12 months
There are better months for Istanbul — see the full ranking below.
See when to go instead →Climate
High
11.6°C
Low
5.8°C
Rain
63mm
Sun
5.2hrs/day
30-year climate normals · Open Meteo ERA5
How March scores in Istanbul
Weather
Above average
Value
Excellent
Crowds
Excellent
Events
Above average
Atmosphere
Very good
What you gain in March
- ↑Tulip season in Emirgan Park (late March/April): one of Istanbul's most overlooked spectacles
- ↑Prices still well below spring peak
- ↑Bosphorus boat tours comfortable and uncrowded
What you sacrifice
- ↓Still some wet days: 63mm, spring rain typical
- ↓Cool evenings still require layers
- ↓Easter/Ramadan (variable dates) can affect restaurant availability
How March compares to April (best month)
| Factor | March | April ★ |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | 5 | 8 |
| Value | 8 | 7 |
| Crowds | 8 | 6 |
March in other destinations
Climate data: 30-year normals (1991–2020) from Open Meteo ERA5 reanalysis. Scores compare months within Istanbul, not across destinations. Methodology →