Istanbul, the city which connects East with West, possesses a unique potpourri of cultures and experiences. Without a doubt, this beautiful city is best visited in all the seasons, but September is the month when it can be visited off and on. The summer tourists begin to leave slack, a refreshing change in weather occurs, and the active life of the city with its numerous alerts in the form of festivals, markets, and historical site management remains. In this respect, we list a definitive guide to visiting Istanbul in September.
Why Visit Istanbul in September?
Istanbul in September can be described as the ‘end of summer, beginning of autumn’ season, when one can engage in any outdoor activities in comfortable weather, it is not too hot or cold. Here are other insights as to why September is the month that will suit any visitor:
Perfect temperatures:
September does not disappoint as regards temperature averages with averages of approximately 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit) and cool evenings at about 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit). This means it is the right time to tour the locale, as visitors will not incur the trouble of sweltering and will also not experience the freezing season in winter.
Fewer people:
With the end of the summer holidays, which usually bring an influx of tourists, certain attractions begin to clear up and allow visitors to such sites as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, etc. to enter without queuing or overcrowding.
Celebration of cultures:
Lots of cultural programs and festivals fall in September making it possible for tourists to engage in Istanbul’s diverse culture and arts.
Beautiful Sunset:
With the conclusion of the summer season, the sunsets in Turkey - Istanbul get lovelier. One can relish the stunning sights of the Bosphorus and the skyline from places as high as the Galata Tower, or even get on a boat and go on a lookout tour during the setting sun.
Events and Festivals in September
Visiting Istanbul in September has a lot of pluses among which the most colorful one is cultural and artistic events taking place around the city. Here are some of them:
1. Istanbul Biennial
The Istanbul Biennial is organized biannually and is one of the prominent art exhibitions in the city of Istanbul. The 2024 Istanbul Biennial will bring a range of local and international artists retelling the story of contemporary art across several venues in the city. If you love art so much, then this will be a great occasion for you.
2. Akbank Jazz Festival
Music lovers should rejoice upon arriving in Istanbul, for September is the Month of the Akbank Jazz Festival. Well, this is one of the most eminent jazz events across Turkey, where some international and local jazz performers participate. Always with the change of season concerts are held in different parts of the city opening up the delightful experience of listening to live music within the breathtaking settings of Istanbul.
3. Fener-Balat Street Festival
And for those who wish to embrace Istanbul’s inner world, the Fener-Balat Street festival is a rare treasure. This fair is held in the old neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, famous for their vibrant houses and antiquity. The festival boasts of street activities, food vendors, and folk music which allows guests to sample how the locals live.
Where to Stay in Istanbul in September
Istanbul combined with its large population can make choosing where to stay extremely difficult. Here are some of the best areas to take into account:
1. Sultanahmet
To most first-time visitors to the city, the Sultanahmet district is the best area to stay which is due to its proximity to popular places like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Hotels are available in plenty with different price ranges from cheap to pricey with most offering astonishing skyline views of the city.
2. Beyoglu
Those in search of more dynamic contemporary parts of Istanbul will find Beyoglu to be an excellent option. The district contains Istiklal Street and the Galata Tower, not forgetting numerous stylish cafes, eateries, and shops. The warm weather, especially during the evenings, puts the month of September as the ideal for indulging in nightlife at Beyoglu.
3. Kadikoy
If you want to have a less touristy experience, a stay in Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul would be a good option. This energetic district is famous for its markets, street vendors, and a general carefree attitude. From Kadikoy, you also have the option to take a ferry to the other, European side of the city while having a picturesque view of the Bosphorus.
Advice on How to Tour Istanbul in September
Dress Appropriately:
Although September comes with less heat than previous months, it is not particularly cool during the day hence carry light layers of clothing. Remember also to observe the dressing etiquette when going to the mosques and other places of worship – a woman is expected to wear a headscarf while men and women alike should dress decently in appropriate clothing.
Use Public Transport:
Transportation in Istanbul can be a nightmare considering that it is towards the end of summer when the natives come back from summer vacation in September. That is why it is advisable to make use of the city trams, buses, and even ferries and get to one’s destination on time without being caught up in the notorious traffic jams.
Be Aware of Scheduling for the Events Occurring Within the City:
In case, for example, you wish to take part in any of the city’s entertainment activities like the Istanbul Biennial or Akbank Jazz Festival, you will have to make early ticket and hotel reservations because many people may want to participate in the same events.
Conclusion
Visiting Istanbul presents many opportunities to enjoy favorable climatic conditions, a low season for tourism, and cultural activities monthly. Be it visiting monuments, taking a trip down the Bosphorus, or attending one of the various celebrations within the city, it is no wonder that people never run short of admirable aspects of this city at this particular time. As September rolls, the weather is cooler, the sunsets are beautiful and the city is coming back to its normal activities and life, without a doubt, September is one of the greatest months to tour this great city.
