Istanbul weather in December: what to wear on New Year's Eve

Istanbul has a mild but wet winter. December is cool rather than freezing, but the wind and the damp air make evenings by the water feel colder than the thermometer says. Here is what to expect and what to pack for New Year's Eve.

Average weather in December

• Daytime: around 11°C (52°F) on average.
• Night-time: around 4–6°C (40–43°F).
• Rain: December is one of the rainiest months of the year. Expect several rainy days in the month.
• Wind: often breezy, especially on the water.
• Daylight: about 9 hours, with sunset at around 17:30.

Cold snaps can happen: in some years temperatures have dropped below zero around New Year, and snow is possible, though rare in the city centre.

What to wear on New Year's Eve

• A warm coat that you can take off indoors. On our cruise the dining hall is heated, but you will want it on the deck at midnight.
• Smart or party clothes underneath. There is no strict dress code.
• Comfortable shoes. Piers and old streets can be wet and uneven.
• A scarf or hat for the deck and the pier.
• A small umbrella, just in case.

Packing list for your trip

• Layers: T-shirts, a sweater or two, and a waterproof jacket.
• Waterproof or sturdy shoes for walking.
• A power bank. Cold weather drains phone batteries faster.
• A photo of your passport on your phone.