10 Best Things to Do in Turkey in Winter 2024
Activity
Activities
Tour
Tours
1623126901 download   2021 06 04t165444.959.png?w=60&h=60&dpr=1
Best Selling Turkey Tour Packages
1. Explore Cappadocia by Hot-Air Balloon
2. Relax with sleighing on Lake Çıldır
3. Ride the Eastern Express Train
4. Ski at Uludağ
5. Discover Kars and Ani ruins
6. Enjoy a peaceful Istanbul city break
7. Ski at Palandöken
8. Unwind at Lake Abant
9. Ruin hop along Turkey's coast
10. Ski at Sarıkamıs

Hop on board with Thrillophilia and get ready to witness the beauty of Turkey like never before. The winter season offers snow-dusted mountains and vibrant cities covered under a blanket of snow, transforming Turkey into more magical than ever. Additionally, you will experience fewer crowds compared to the summers, allowing you to explore more peacefully. 

One of the best things to do in Turkey in winters is to visit Pamukkale and take a refreshing bath in its warm thermal pools. Make sure to visit Cappadocia to witness the stunning fairy chimneys as well as to try a hot air balloon ride over the snowy landscape. 

For the ultimate winter activity, head towards Uludağ which is a prime skiing destination in Turkey. Additionally, you can visit Istanbul to explore some prominent attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Galata Tower. You will also find several cosy cafes in Istanbul where you can warm up with a cup of tea and try local dishes.

So get ready to explore Turkey in winter, a season that promises beauty, tranquillity and unforgettable experiences. 
Book your dream getaway with Thrillophilia's Turkey holiday packages and make unforgettable memories in this winter wonderland.
Image description
Bigger Group? Get special offers upto 50% off!
We create unforgettable adventures, customised for your group.
Connect with a group tour expert
Full Name
Email
Phone number
Travel Date
Traveller Count
Message
Explore All (68)
Explore All (18)
01

Explore Cappadocia by Hot-Air Balloon

One of the top things to do in Turkey in winter is to enjoy a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia. It is a magical experience during which you will get to fly high above the dreamy and snowy landscape of Cappadocia. You will get to admire stunning aerial views of fairy chimneys and several valleys like Red Valley and Pigeon Valley. Additionally, there will be other colourful hot air balloons in the vast blue sky and above the snowy grounds, creating an impressive contrast and an unforgettable experience.
02

Relax with sleighing on Lake Çıldır

Lake Çıldır is the second largest lake as well as one of the most visited winter destinations in Turkey. Between the months of December and February, the lake gets frozen and snow-covered, offering a magical experience for those looking to sleigh across its icy surface. As you hop on the sleigh rides led by local horses, you will get to glide across the expansive frozen lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This unique winter activity allows you to connect with nature as well as enjoy the cultural charm of Turkey.
03

Ride the Eastern Express Train

From the list of all the popular things to do in Turkey in winter, make sure to try the Ride the Eastern Express Train. It is the most famous train route of Turkey which runs between Ankara and Kars and is best experienced in the winter. It is a 24-hour train ride that takes you through some of the most beautiful locations of Turkey including high plateaus and rugged mountains, all covered with a layer of snow. Due to the high demand of this train, there is now a second train that follows the same route, the Tourist Eastern Express. 
04

Ski at Uludağ

Uludag, also known as Mount Ulu, is the most famous and busiest ski centre in Turkey. It is a vast resort with around 28 km of slopes, offering a fun experience whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier. If you are a beginner, you will get a briefing session and will ski along with an expert. However, if you are experienced, you can simply rent your ski equipment and head towards the slopes for the ultimate adventure. Additionally, if you wish to extend your day trip and relax in this tranquil ambience, there are around 27 hotels in this resort.  
05

Discover Kars and Ani ruins

Exploring Kars and the Ancient Ani is one of the best things to do in winter in Turkey which you should not miss. Kars is a prime winter destination which attracts tourists with its pristine natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can explore elegant church ruins, historic mosques, a castle and some fine 19th-century architecture. The highlight of Kars is the nearby Ani which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a fascinating ruin which looks even more surreal in the winter. 
06

Enjoy a peaceful Istanbul city break

Istanbul looks nothing less than a paradise in the winter season. The major attractions like the Blue Mosque, Galata Tower, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace look incredible with a sprinkling of snow on top. One of the best reasons to visit Istanbul during winter is that there are fewer crowds so you can enjoy and explore more freely at your own pace. Another advantage is that the prices drop significantly due to less demand so you can get flight tickets, hotels, attraction tickets and food at a much cheaper rate in winter. 
07

Ski at Palandöken

Palandöken Ski Resort on Mount Palandöken is another popular ski centre in Turkey. With an altitude of 2,200 metres, this is the highest-altitude ski resort in Turkey, offering plenty of adventure activities. It is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, known for pristine slopes blanketed in snow. The resort boasts some of the steepest slopes in Turkey, making it a must-try for advanced skiers, while also providing gentler slopes for beginners. In addition to skiing, you can enjoy snowboarding, snowshoeing, or cosy moments with your loved ones by the fire in alpine lodges.
08

Unwind at Lake Abant

Located in the Bolu province of Turkey, Lake Abant is a beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by thick pine tree forest. It is situated in the middle of a national park and serves as a serene getaway destination. Here, you can sit and relax, soaking in the mesmerising beauty and tranquil ambience. Or, you can explore the walking trails nearby and explore the woods. To make it more enjoyable, you can also rent a bike to explore the forest or choose horseback riding, both of which are popular things to do in Turkey in winter.
09

Ruin hop along Turkey's coast

Planning a trip to Turkey in winter offers you a chance to explore the country’s most popular archaeological sites with fewer crowds. Contrary to the peak months, you can spend as much time as you like, wandering around and listening to interesting historical facts. Some of the well-known attractions that you should definitely visit in the winter include Pamukkale, Aspendos and Ephesus. However, it is important to note that some smaller resort towns completely shut down during winter, whereas larger towns like Antalya, Fethiye and Cappadocia offer year-round accommodations.
10

Ski at Sarıkamıs

Sarıkamıs is one of the lesser-known ski resorts in Turkey, however, claimed to be the best by advanced skiers. If you are someone who wishes to try winter sports but in more peaceful surroundings then this is the place for you. It is a smaller yet beautiful ski resort, consisting of four major slopes, five hotels and three connecting lifts. Here, you can also try snowboarding as well as rent the required equipment from the facilities shop. 

People Also Ask About Turkey

  1. Is it worth visiting Turkey in winter?

    Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting Turkey in winter. Between the months of December and February, the vibrant landscape of Turkey gets covered with a blanket of snow and turns into a winter wonderland. Additionally, you will get to experience fewer crowds and lower rates on hotels and flights.
  2. Which city in Turkey is best to visit in winter?

    Cappadocia and Uludag are two of the most popular and ideal cities to visit in winter. In Cappadocia, you can try the famous hot air balloon ride and soak in the aerial views of the winter wonderland. One of the best things to do in winter in Turkey is skiing and snowboarding in Uludag. Some other well-known cities that you can visit include Istanbul, Antalya, Pamukkale and Bursa.
  3. How much will a 7 day trip to Turkey cost?

    On average, a 7-day trip to Turkey can cost between INR 70,000 to INR 1,00,000 per person. The overall cost of a package also depends on the type of accommodation, number of tours and kind of activities included in the itinerary. Additionally, if you are looking for the most budget-friendly travel then winter months are the best time for your trip.
  4. Which month is best to visit Turkey?

    December- February is an ideal time to visit Turkey if you are looking for a quieter or an economical experience. During these months, there are fewer crowds even in the most prominent attractions like Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Additionally, in these months, you can get the best deals on hotels and flights due to the less demand.
  5. Which is the best place to stay in Turkey in winter?

    Cappadocia in Turkey is known for its cosy cave hotels which are perfect for winters. The rooms are spacious, and perfectly warm and offer stunning views of the fairy chimneys and towering mountains. You can also consider staying in Uludag so that you can easily access the ski resorts and enjoy unlimited adventure.
  6. What are the top winter activities in Turkey?

    Top winter activities in Turkey include skiing in Uludağ and Palandöken, hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, visiting the thermal pools of Pamukkale, and exploring ancient ruins in Kars and Ani. Winter is also a great time for sleigh rides on Lake Çıldır and experiencing a scenic train ride on the Eastern Express.
  7. Is it safe to visit Turkey in winter?

    Yes, Turkey is generally safe to visit in winter. While certain areas, especially in mountainous regions, can experience heavy snowfall, the major tourist cities and attractions are well-equipped for winter tourism. Always check weather conditions and road closures before heading to high-altitude areas, and stay updated on local advisories for a safe trip.
  8. What should I pack for a winter trip to Turkey?

    For a winter trip to Turkey, it's essential to pack warm clothing such as insulated jackets, sweaters, scarves, gloves, and thermal layers. If you plan to ski, don't forget ski gear. Comfortable shoes for walking in snow or rain are a must, along with an umbrella and travel essentials like sunscreen, as the sun can still be strong at times.
Newly Added Turkey Experience

Turkey Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Turkey
Excellent
We love visiting cultural heritage places and Turkey is one truly packed with it! We loved the experienced and its beauty. And admire how we were supported by the team person who helped us in ever possible aspect, Thank you.
It was exactly as advertised and advised from the flights to tours to tour guides for a superb unforgettable experience.
Excellent
It was an amazing tour. We enjoyed a lot on this trip as everything was perfect on time
Pushti Bandopadhyay Turkey Package From Delhi
Excellent
We were very satisfied with the arrangement of the tour during our stay in Istanbul. the tour guides were very friendly. The transport transfer was efficient. The hotels where we stay was great and comfortable.
Great experience! Everything was perfectly organized and they helped us with everything since the beggining
Excellent
We had a very adventurous trip which was filled with lots of joy and most of the tourist attraction places were covered.
It is beautiful country to visit, with various beautiful places with natural diversity. Loved the places and how it was managed.
It was truly one magical trip we had with the team of Thrillophilia. As also we were completely dependent upon them and I must say they are reliable and trust worthy for your trip and everything related to it. Thank you.
Excellent
Keeping in mind the no. of days we had and everything we wanted were almost included in this package. Everything was already planned beautifully executed and managed by the people. It was amazing!
Tanushri Bhattathiri Cheapest Turkey Tour Package
Excellent
Turkey being the full package of cultural heritage and popularly known its exceptional beauty. We loved the place and its culture. Also the team and planning for more.

Popular Nearby Places Around Turkey

Popular Related Destinations

Places to Visit in India

Places to Visit in Delhi Places to Visit in Goa Places to Visit in Pune Places to Visit in Bangalore Places to Visit in Mumbai Places to Visit in Hyderabad Places to Visit in Jaipur Places to Visit in Chennai Places to Visit in Kolkata Places to Visit in Ladakh Places to Visit in Spiti Places to Visit in Andaman Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh Places to Visit in North East Places to Visit in Sikkim Places to Visit in Darjeeling Places to Visit in Meghalaya Places to Visit in Gangtok Places to Visit in Rajasthan Places to Visit in Uttarakhand Places to Visit in Kerala Places to Visit in Karnataka Places to Visit in Maharashtra Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh Places to Visit in Kashmir Places to Visit in Manali Places to Visit in Dharamshala Places to Visit in Shimla Places to Visit in Mcleodganj Places to Visit in Nainital Places to Visit in Mussoorie Places to Visit in Dehradun Places to Visit in Rishikesh Places To Visit In Jammu Places to Visit in Srinagar Places to Visit in Chikmagalur Places to Visit in Munnar Places to Visit in Kodaikanal Places to Visit in Ooty Places to Visit in Pondicherry Places to Visit in Wayanad Places to Visit in Coorg Places to Visit in Mysore Places to Visit in Lonavala Places to Visit in Alibaug Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar Places to Visit in Udaipur Places to Visit in Jodhpur Places to Visit in Jaisalmer Places to Visit in Mount Abu Places to Visit in Agra Places To Visit In South Goa Places To Visit In North Goa
Currency Picker
Commonly Used Currencies
INR -
Indian Rupee
USD - $
United States Dollar
EUR -
Euro
SGD - $
Singapore Dollar
AUD - $
Australian Dollar
GBP - £
British Pound
AED - د.إ
United Arab Emirates Dirham
All Other Currencies
ALL - L
Albanian Lek
AMD - դր.
Armenian Dram
ARS - $
Argentine Peso
AWG - ƒ
Aruban Florin
BBD - $
Barbadian Dollar
BDT -
Bangladeshi Taka
BMD - $
Bermudian Dollar
BND - $
Brunei Dollar
BOB - Bs.
Bolivian Boliviano
BSD - $
Bahamian Dollar
BWP - P
Botswana Pula
BZD - $
Belize Dollar
CAD - $
Canadian Dollar
CHF - CHF
Swiss Franc
CNY - ¥
Chinese Renminbi Yuan
COP - $
Colombian Peso
CRC -
Costa Rican Colón
CZK -
Czech Koruna
DKK - kr.
Danish Krone
DOP - $
Dominican Peso
DZD - د.ج
Algerian Dinar
EGP - ج.م
Egyptian Pound
ETB - Br
Ethiopian Birr
FJD - $
Fijian Dollar
GHS -
Ghanaian Cedi
GIP - £
Gibraltar Pound
GMD - D
Gambian Dalasi
GTQ - Q
Guatemalan Quetzal
GYD - $
Guyanese Dollar
HKD - $
Hong Kong Dollar
HNL - L
Honduran Lempira
HRK - kn
Croatian Kuna
HTG - G
Haitian Gourde
HUF - Ft
Hungarian Forint
IDR - Rp
Indonesian Rupiah
ILS -
Israeli New Sheqel
JMD - $
Jamaican Dollar
KES - KSh
Kenyan Shilling
KGS - som
Kyrgyzstani Som
KHR -
Cambodian Riel
KYD - $
Cayman Islands Dollar
KZT -
Kazakhstani Tenge
LAK -
Lao Kip
LBP - ل.ل
Lebanese Pound
LKR -
Sri Lankan Rupee
LRD - $
Liberian Dollar
LSL - L
Lesotho Loti
MAD - د.م.
Moroccan Dirham
MDL - L
Moldovan Leu
MKD - ден
Macedonian Denar
MMK - K
Myanmar Kyat
MNT -
Mongolian Tögrög
MOP - P
Macanese Pataca
MUR -
Mauritian Rupee
MVR - MVR
Maldivian Rufiyaa
MWK - MK
Malawian Kwacha
MXN - $
Mexican Peso
MYR - RM
Malaysian Ringgit
NAD - $
Namibian Dollar
NIO - C$
Nicaraguan Córdoba
NOK - kr
Norwegian Krone
NPR - Rs.
Nepalese Rupee
NZD - $
New Zealand Dollar
PEN - S/
Peruvian Sol
PGK - K
Papua New Guinean Kina
PHP -
Philippine Peso
PKR -
Pakistani Rupee
QAR - ر.ق
Qatari Riyal
RUB -
Russian Ruble
SAR - ر.س
Saudi Riyal
SCR -
Seychellois Rupee
SEK - kr
Swedish Krona
SLL - Le
Sierra Leonean Leone
SOS - Sh
Somali Shilling
SVC -
Salvadoran Colón
SZL - E
Swazi Lilangeni
THB - ฿
Thai Baht
TTD - $
Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
TZS - Sh
Tanzanian Shilling
UYU - $U
Uruguayan Peso
UZS - so'm
Uzbekistan Som
YER -
Yemeni Rial
ZAR - R
South African Rand
JPY - ¥
Japanese Yen
VND -
Vietnamese dong