The climate of Göreme
Rooted in the heart of
Turkey,
Göreme is a small town known for its unique climate and weather patterns. Fitting accurately into the Köppen climate classification as a 'Mediterranean, warm summer' (Csb), it presents a comfortable appeal to weather enthusiasts and travelers.
Weather parameters show varied trends throughout the year, with temperatures fluctuating from -3.1°C (26.4°F), peaking at a high of 28.2°C (82.8°F). Months like
January and
February witness temperatures as low as -3.1°C (26.4°F) and -1.4°C (29.5°F) respectively, while
July and
August stand out as the warmest, bathing in the glory of a toasty 27.8°C (82°F) and 28.2°C (82.8°F) respectively.
Rainfall is another key feature shaping the climate of Göreme, Turkey. The city experiences highest precipitation in January and
December, witnessing a steady outpour of 42mm (1.65") and 50mm (1.97") of rainfall. The town's drier spell settles in from July to
September, with an average rainfall measuring between 5mm (0.2") to 10mm (0.39").
What adds an intriguing twist to Göreme's weather tale is the snowfall averaging from 238mm (9.37") in January, steadily descending to a scarcely detectable 6mm (0.24") in
October only to ascend to 201mm (7.91") in December. Combining the snowfall days, rainfall days, and sunshine hours presents Göreme's climate as a delightful amalgamation of Mediterranean warmth and snowy spells.
The best time to visit Göreme
Depending on one's penchant for warm or cold weather, there actually might be two best times to visit
Göreme.
June to
August, with temperatures hovering between 20.1°C (68.2°F) to 28.2°C (82.8°F) and humidity levels dropping to as low as 44%, are ideal for those who get swayed by the Mediterranean summers.
On the contrary, winter aficionados can experience the snowfall that sweeps Göreme's landscape from
November to
March. Days filled with snowfall and temperatures oscillating between 2.8°C (37°F) and -3.1°C (26.4°F), albeit bracing, reveal a completely different charm of the town and might just be the perfect time for winter enthusiasts.
The worst time to visit Göreme
Given the town's climatic conditions, the period from
October to
November might not be the most inviting time to explore
Göreme. During these two months, the average temperatures drop significantly, with October seeing a drop to 18°C (64.4°F) and November experiencing chillier temperatures around 11.6°C (52.9°F).
The cloudy weather correlates with a steeper climb in the average rainfall, making these months less appealing to tourists. Rainfall of 26mm (1.02") and 19mm (0.75") combined with daily temperatures dipping well below comfort, could dampen the spirits of a leisure traveler.
Spring weather in Göreme
Spring brings a breath of fresh air to the city after the chilling winters.
March,
April, and
May feature a steady increase in temperature from 10°C (50°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F). The average rainfall decreases during this period, falling from 39mm (1.54") in March to 43mm (1.69") in May.
Summer weather in Göreme
Summers are delightfully warm in
Göreme.
June ushers in the summer season which goes on till
August, with temperatures ranging from 24.3°C (75.7°F) to 28.2°C (82.8°F). The relative humidity drops to 44% during this time. Rainfall takes a significant dip and sunshine hours reach a pleasant range between 14.3 hours to 14.6 hours.
Autumn weather in Göreme
The warm winds of summer transition into a cooler autumn from
September to
November. The average temperature falls from 24.1°C (75.4°F) to 11.6°C (52.9°F). Though the rainfall begins to pick up again with September witnessing 10mm (0.39"), average daylight hours remain substantial, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities.
Winter weather in Göreme
Among all the seasons, winters present a completely different picture of
Göreme.
December,
January, and
February experience chilly winters with temperatures falling from 6.1°C (43°F) to -3.1°C (26.4°F). Snowfall makes its presence known in December and January at 201mm (7.91") and 238mm (9.37") respectively. These months witness fewer daylight hours, which average from 9.8 hours to 10.8 hours, making it a wonderland for the ones who love the cold.
Weather in January
January sees the new year in with its coldest temperatures, and it is coupled with the city's highest snowfall at 238mm (9.37").
Göreme experiences a real winter atmosphere during this time, with snow-capped landscapes and chilly winds.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February brings a gradual increase in temperature, though
Göreme still remains in the grip of winter. The snowfall decreases notably compared to
January, but frosty conditions prevail with 167mm (6.57") of snow still hitting the ground.
Weather in February » Weather in March
The weather in
March starts to show signs of spring, with temperatures rising again in
Göreme. The snowfall drops significantly to a mere 92mm (3.62"), indicating that winter is on its retreat. Daylight hours increase, and the hustle and bustle of the city start to return.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks a significant departure from the colder months in
Göreme, with almost no snowfall and temperatures continuing their upward trend. Daylight hours continue to increase, thanks to longer days and shorter nights. The change in climate heralds the arrival of spring and the blossoming of flowers.
Weather in April » Weather in May
The month of
May sees a further rise in temperatures in
Göreme, marking the true onset of summer. The absence of snowfall combined with 20.1°C (68.2°F) daily high temperatures highlights the summer ambiance in the city. Natural parks and open areas become more active as locals and tourists indulge in outdoor activities.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June's weather is characterized by a further increase in temperature, making it one of
Göreme's warmest months. The peak daylight hours of 14.8 hrs furthers the appeal of outdoor activities and sightseeing. Since the city doesn't receive any snowfall during this month, visitors can gain full experience of Göreme's cultural and historical landmarks.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the hottest month of the year in
Göreme, with the highest temperature reaching up to 27.8°C (82°F) and no occurrence of snowfall. The city also experiences the second-highest number of sunshine hours, providing an ideal setting for visitors seeking the sun.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August doesn't bring much change in terms of temperature when compared to
July, but
Göreme does experience less daylight. This is the month with the least cloud cover and the most sunshine days, implying clear skies most of the time.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
Göreme enters
September, the weather starts to cool. Temperatures begin to drop, and daylight hours reduce, signaling the approach of the fall season. This month sees an increase in cloud cover and rainfall. Visitors can start to discover a different shade to Göreme's climate.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October marks the onset of autumn in
Göreme, with further drop in temperatures and shorter daylight hours. The fall colors bring out a new facet of Göreme's landscapes, especially in parks and open areas. Despite the seasonal changes, outdoor activities continue to remain popular, albeit with a need for warmer clothing.
Weather in October » Weather in November
As the year winds down,
November brings a noticeable drop in temperatures in
Göreme. With the onset of winter, more cloud covers and less sun are observed during this period. The cooler temperatures give the city a crisp feel, and the landscapes begin to change their attire.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December is another colder month in
Göreme, with temperature lows of -0.6°C (30.9°F) and a considerable increase in snowfall, measuring 201mm (7.91"). This time marks the official start of the winter season. Shorter days and longer nights become prevalent, and Christmas festivities add vibrancy to the chilly weather.
Weather in December »