When it comes to traveling to Turkey and Greece, timing is everything. While both countries offer a rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures, the best time to visit can make all the difference between a memorable trip and a disappointing one. In this article, we’ll explore the worst times to visit Turkey and Greece, helping you plan your trip wisely and avoid the crowds, heat, and other challenges that come with traveling during the off-season.
The Worst Time to Visit Turkey
Turkey is a large and diverse country, with different regions experiencing varying weather conditions throughout the year. However, there are certain times that are generally considered the worst to visit Turkey, and these are:
Summer (June to August)
Summer is peak tourist season in Turkey, and the heat can be unbearable, especially in the inland regions. Temperatures often soar above 100°F (38°C), making it difficult to explore the country’s historic sites and cities. Additionally, summer is the peak season for package tours, which can make popular destinations like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir feel crowded and touristy.
Table 1: Average High Temperatures in Turkey during Summer
| City | Average High Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Istanbul | 93°F (34°C) |
| Antalya | 95°F (35°C) |
| Izmir | 88°F (31°C) |
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the low season in Turkey, and while it can be a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to avoid the crowds, it’s not ideal for most travelers. The weather can be cold and wet, especially in the north, with temperatures often below 50°F (10°C). Additionally, some tourist attractions and businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours.
Table 2: Average Low Temperatures in Turkey during Winter (See Also: When Is the Best Time to Visit Channel Islands – Perfect Island Getaway)
| City | Average Low Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Istanbul | 39°F (4°C) |
| Antalya | 45°F (7°C) |
| Izmir | 43°F (6°C) |
The Worst Time to Visit Greece
Greece is another popular tourist destination in the Mediterranean, and like Turkey, it has its own set of worst times to visit. These are:
Peak Tourist Season (July to August)
Summer is peak tourist season in Greece, and the islands and popular destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete can feel overcrowded and chaotic. The heat can also be intense, with temperatures often reaching 90°F (32°C) or higher. Additionally, many Greeks take their summer vacations during this time, which can make it difficult to find accommodations or enjoy the local culture.
Table 3: Average High Temperatures in Greece during Summer
| City | Average High Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Athens | 89°F (32°C) |
| Santorini | 86°F (30°C) |
| Mykonos | 84°F (29°C) |
Shoulder Season (April to May and September to October)
The shoulder season in Greece can be a good time to visit, with mild weather and smaller crowds. However, it’s not ideal for everyone, as the weather can be unpredictable and some tourist attractions may be closed or operate on reduced hours.
Table 4: Average Low Temperatures in Greece during Shoulder Season (See Also: Is November a Good Time to Visit Marrakech – Weather Wise)
| City | Average Low Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Athens | 55°F (13°C) |
| Santorini | 52°F (11°C) |
| Mykonos | 54°F (12°C) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the worst times to visit Turkey and Greece are during the peak tourist season and the shoulder season. While there are some benefits to visiting during these times, such as milder weather and smaller crowds, there are also some drawbacks, including high prices, crowds, and unpredictable weather. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and affordable trip, consider visiting during the off-season, when prices are lower and the weather is generally more pleasant.
Recap
Here’s a recap of the worst times to visit Turkey and Greece:
- Summer (June to August) in Turkey: hot and crowded
- Winter (December to February) in Turkey: cold and wet
- Peak Tourist Season (July to August) in Greece: hot and crowded
- Shoulder Season (April to May and September to October) in Greece: unpredictable weather and smaller crowds
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Turkey?
The best time to visit Turkey is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak tourist season.
What is the best time to visit Greece?
The best time to visit Greece is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak tourist season. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed and affordable trip, consider visiting during the off-season, when prices are lower and the weather is generally more pleasant.
What are the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey?
The most popular tourist destinations in Turkey are Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir, which offer a rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Other popular destinations include Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and the Turkish Riviera. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Guilin? Perfect Weather Awaits)
What are the most popular tourist destinations in Greece?
The most popular tourist destinations in Greece are the islands of Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, which offer stunning beaches, charming villages, and vibrant nightlife. Other popular destinations include Athens, the Acropolis, and the ancient city of Delphi.
What is the best way to get around Turkey and Greece?
The best way to get around Turkey and Greece is by public transportation, such as buses and trains, which are affordable and convenient. You can also use taxis and ride-sharing services, or rent a car if you prefer to drive. Additionally, many tourist destinations offer walking tours and bike rentals, which are a great way to explore the local culture and scenery.
