Istanbul is a city best visited in May. Having a vibrant culture, a wealthy historical background and a good mix of modernity and traditionalism makes the city quite active in the spring period. This is the season of good weather, longer days, and blooming of flowers which makes the experience in Istanbul worth trooping in for.
If it’s not the ancient history that interests someone a beautiful place in nature the pleasures of food, or just calm people-watching, there is always something special about Istanbul in May for every single person.
How to Make the Most of a Trip to Istanbul in May?
May is the month that one should go beating the city’s pavements. The climate is enjoyable, the number of visitors is medium when compared to the summer high peak days, and many local festivals and events occur at this time. Here’s why you should consider visiting Istanbul in May:
Favorable Climate Condition:
The May weather condition in Istanbul is generally bearable with average temperature levels of between 15 degrees centigrade and 25 degrees centigrade (59 degrees Fahrenheit to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s not hot and uncomfortable or too cold to go out, thus there are opportunities for walking and sightseeing activities, boat rides in the waters and eating outside in the restaurants.
Fewer Crowds:
It is still true that Istanbul has lots of attractions and tourists, however, May is not as crowded as the high season in summer which the months of June, July, and August are. Also, the best places can be enjoyed without long waiting lines and the area which is usually filled with throngs of people.
A Splash of Color:
May is the best time to visit Istanbul, this is because everyone has spring fever. Istanbul’s parks and gardens are lush during the spring. The iconic emigrant park tulip gardens are adorned with beautiful tulips in the season and are a very big contributor to the greenery of the city.
Activities and Fun:
May is a warm sanguine month with many activities of cultural importance including concerts, fairs, and sports activities. The Istanbul Music Festival is one of them which attracts attention with its interesting content which brings together world-famous artists of every style.
Immerse Yourself in the Culinary Delights of Istanbul
The aspect of food is always one of the major highlights, especially in the city of Istanbul. The month of May signifies the opening of the outdoor terraces and rooftop diners for lunch and dinner, presenting the guests with breathtaking views. The following are some of the food dishes that are worth tasting:
Meze Platters:
A variety of small, rich-flavored dishes that are commonly called starters. Go for the humus, dolma, and ezme among others.
Kebabs:
With the great fame of serving the best kebabs in the whole world, it is hard to get in Istanbul and not find a kebab joint selling lamb, chicken, vegetarian and other types of kebabs.
Baklava:
And when you think you have had enough of the food come the desserts that spoil you with choice with the best being the baklava.
For something different, go to Balat or Karakoy which are not short of stylish cafes and old-fashioned restaurants that exemplify typical Istanbul cuisine.
Events and Festivals in May
Istanbul in May is like no other month because lots of events are observed with cultural activities included. Some of the major events that shall be discussed later are:
Istanbul Music Festival:
This is an extremely famous arts-related occasion that involves performances of classical music operas and ballet dancers from both local and foreign artists.
Youth and Sports Day (May 19):
This is a public holiday in Turkey and focuses on the youth of the country through sporting activities concerts and parades. It is one of the excellent experiences that allow the visitors to embrace the culture of the people and participate actively in such festivals.
Hints for Traveling to Istanbul in May
What to wear:
The weather in Istanbul in May is kind of pleasant but can differ from one day to the next. Daytime one can wear light clothing while a jacket can be helpful during those chilly evenings. Comfortable shoes should be worn at all times, as you will probably engage in a great deal of walking.
Transport:
Public transport in Istanbul is cheap and operates efficiently. Therefore, travel by tram, metro, or bus while in the city. The travel card known fondly as the Istanbulkart that can be purchased and reloaded from time to time simplifies the use of any public transport service.
Dos and Don’ts:
Men and women are encouraged to dress decently while in mosques and any sects that require a particular code of dressing. Women should always ensure they have a scarf that will cover their heads when going to a mosque and men should never appear in shorts within the mosque.
Conclusion:
Istanbul in May has so much culture, history, and nature to offer. It is high time, pleasant weather, and not too many people; there are lots of reasons to visit this beautiful city. From taking a cruise on the Bosphorus to enjoying the sight of blooming flowers during spring or even sampling the delicacies of the city, there is so much to see and do in Istanbul in May.
