Climate and monthly weather forecastAnkara, Turkey

The climate of Ankara

Ankara, Turkey experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm summers, under the Köppen climate classification, Csb. Geographically, Ankara occupies the central position of Turkey, surrounded by high mountains, which greatly influences its weather pattern. This allows Ankara to experience seasonally distinct weather conditions throughout the year.

Temperatures in Ankara experience significant fluctuations over the year. The city witnesses its warmest period in July and August with temperatures reaching up to 30.2°C (86.4°F) and 30.3°C (86.5°F) respectively, while the coldest month is January with temperatures dipping as low as -3°C (26.6°F). Ankara records rainfall throughout the year, with December documenting the highest rainfall of 44mm (1.73"), and the lowest in August at 11mm (0.43"). It’s noteworthy that the city experiences the most daylight hours in June at 15 hours, and the least amount in December at 9.4 hours.

The average hours of sunshine Ankara receives also varies with the seasons. The maximum sunshine hours can be found in July and August, with 11.3 hours and 11.6 hours respectively. In contrast, December reveals the fewest sunshine hours, at just 2.3 hours on average.

The best time to visit Ankara

Tourists will find the spring months of April to June to be the most delightful time to experience Ankara. In this period, the city basks in a comfortable temperature range from 11.6°C (52.9°F) to 26.6°C (79.9°F), which is accompanied by rainfall that ranges from 35mm (1.38") to 47mm (1.85"). On top of that, the daylight hours increase from 12 hours to 15 hours, providing more time to explore the city.

The worst time to visit Ankara

The coldest months from December to February make for a less desirable time to visit Ankara. The average high temperatures only reach between 4.4°C (39.9°F) and 6.6°C (43.9°F), with lows dropping to -3°C (26.6°F). Rainfall is comparatively high during these months, ranging from 37mm (1.46") to 44mm (1.73"), coupled with shorter daylight hours from 9.4 hours to 10.7 hours.

Spring weather in Ankara

Spring in Ankara ushers in warming temperatures and longer daylight hours than winter. March begins with an average high of 11.6°C (52.9°F) and low of 0.9°C (33.6°F), while May ends with a high of 22.2°C (72°F) and low of 9.6°C (49.3°F). Rainfall is frequent during this season, starting from 40mm (1.57") in March and rising to 52mm (2.05") in May. An average daylight duration of 12 hours in March extends to 14.4 hours by May.

Summer weather in Ankara

During summer, Ankara experiences its highest temperatures, peaking in July and August at 30.2°C (86.4°F) and 30.3°C (86.5°F), with night temperatures averaging around 15.9°C (60.6°F) and 16°C (60.8°F). Rainfall decreases substantially in this period, with August being the driest month at 11mm (0.43"). This period also marks the longest average daylight hours, reaching up to 15 hours in June.

Autumn weather in Ankara

Cooling temperatures define the autumn climate in Ankara. September starts with an average high of 26°C (78.8°F) and low of 11.8°C (53.2°F), leading to November which has a high of 12.8°C (55°F) and low of 2.4°C (36.3°F). Rainfall rises gradually, starting from 19mm (0.75") in September and ending with 32mm (1.26") in November. Subsequently, the daylight hours decrease from 12.5 hours in September to 10 hours in November.

Winter weather in Ankara

Winter in Ankara is characterized by the city’s coldest months. The average high temperature during this season ranges from 6.6°C (43.9°F) in December to 4.4°C (39.9°F) in January. Additionally, the average low temperature drops to -0.7°C (30.7°F) in December. Rainfall is relatively high during winter, with the maximum registered in December at 44mm (1.73").

Weather in January

Ankara starts out the year with a cold month, the winter season bringing frosty temperatures. The average high temperature for the month is a chilly 4.4°C (39.9°F), and can drop as low as -3°C (26.6°F). You will typically find residents bundled up in warm attire to manage the cold. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Continuing from the cold January, February's weather in Ankara is still characterized by frosty temperatures but gets slightly warmer. Rainfall is slightly less compared to January, but the skies are still predominantly cloudy. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Ankara's climate in March signals the onset of spring, the weather beginning to transition into warmer temperatures. Of significance is the notable increase in daylight hours, revealing more of Ankara's fantastic landscapes. Also, the UV index starts to rise, indicating stronger sunlight. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April brings a beautiful spring climate to Ankara, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. Rainfall erupts into a magnificent display of blossoming flowers, significantly enhancing the city's appeal. Daily sunshine hours also continue to increase markedly, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities. Weather in April »

Weather in May

The pleasant, warm climate becomes even more pronounced in May, as Ankara transitions fully into the spring season. This is a month well known for its clear, blue skies decorated with fluffy white clouds. This month also welcomes a considerable increase in sunshine hours, invigorating residents and tourists alike. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June kicks off the summer season in Ankara, reflecting significant increases in both temperature and sunshine hours. Notably, the average high temperature reaches 26.6°C (79.9°F), marking it as the first real summer month. This is also the time when the city becomes significantly dry, the amount of rainfall dropping dramatically. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July presents the peak of summer in Ankara, the city fully gripped by hot, dry weather. Expect soaring temperatures during the day, which can be a bit intense for those unaccustomed to the heat. However, the evenings are much cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Weather in July »

Weather in August

The summer heat continues full swing in August, maintaining the hot, dry conditions experienced in July. This month also carries the distinction of having the lowest rainfall levels observed throughout the year. Even without the cooling relief of rain showers, tourism continues to thrive as many indoor facilities offer air conditioning. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September's weather in Ankara starts to cool down, signaling the transition from summer to autumn. The temperatures begin their gradual descent, offering more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. The city's landscape starts to change once again, the leaves turning from vibrant green to pastel tones of yellow, orange, and brown. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October witnesses further progress of the autumn season in Ankara, cooler temperatures and richer fall colors becoming increasingly prominent. This month carries significant rainfall, the increasing water levels bringing life to the city's public parks and gardens. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Ankara's climate in November prompts residents to begin preparing for the incoming winter season. The daylight hours continue to diminish, and temperatures continue to fall, setting the stage for the cool months ahead. November can be a rather quiet time in Ankara, the city taking a brief respite before the onset of the holiday season. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December marks the onset of the winter season in Ankara, the chill setting in as the year comes to an end. Having just entered the phase of winter, December is slightly warmer compared to the upcoming frosty months of January and February but expect significant temperature drop from the previous month. Weather in December »