Last updated: August 27, 2025
February in Istanbul, Turkey is characterized by a mild yet variable climate, where temperatures range from a brisk -1°C (31°F) at their lowest to a pleasant 17°C (62°F) during the warmer days. The average temperature hovers around 8°C (46°F), providing a cool backdrop for exploring the city's rich history. During this month, the city experiences approximately 66 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall over 12 days, contributing to an 84% humidity level that envelops the air with a damp chill. As daylight begins to lengthen, February offers a unique blend of winter's retreat and the early whispers of spring, making it a fascinating time to visit.
In February, Istanbul experiences a slight warming trend as winter begins to soften its grip. With minimum temperatures hovering around -1°C (31°F) and a mild average of 8°C (46°F), the city slowly transitions towards spring. The maximum temperature reaches 17°C (62°F), offering a glimpse of the warmer days to come. As the month unfolds, the chill of January gives way to slightly more hospitable weather, making it an excellent time for visitors to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting city. While still on the cooler side, February’s temperatures set the stage for the blossoming warmth of March and the subsequent arrival of spring.
February in Istanbul experiences a modest dip in precipitation compared to the preceding month, receiving 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain over 12 days. This reduction is part of a broader trend as the city transitions from the wetter winter months into a relatively drier late winter and early spring, with March and April showing further declines in both rainfall and rainy days. The pattern suggests that while February still retains a significant chance of rain, it marks the beginning of a gradual shift towards the sunnier months ahead, as the city prepares to embrace spring with lighter showers and longer sunny spells.
In February, Istanbul continues to experience high humidity levels, consistent with January's 84%. This persistent moisture in the air creates a rather chilly atmosphere, characteristic of winter in the city. As the seasons transition towards spring, a subtle decline begins, with humidity dipping slightly to 83% in March. While February is marked by heavy overcast skies and occasional rain, the upcoming months promise a gradual reduction in humidity, reaching 76% in April and further decreasing as summer approaches. This trend highlights the city's shift from the damp winter months to a more temperate climate, offering a refreshing change as spring flowers start to bloom.
In February, Istanbul experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating it's time to enjoy the city's sights while being mindful of sun exposure. With a burn time of 30 minutes, it's essential to take precautions if you're spending time outdoors. This month marks a slight increase from January’s Index of 3, hinting at the approaching spring warmth. As the year progresses, the UV Index will see a significant rise, peaking in the summer months with very high levels. It’s a reminder to stay vigilant as the sunlight becomes more intense. For those planning their outdoor activities, understanding the UV trends is crucial. For more insights, check out Istanbul UV Index.
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As winter gives way to spring, February in Istanbul brings a noticeable increase in sunshine, with 232 hours of radiant daylight. This is a stark contrast to the 159 hours enjoyed in January, suggesting that the city's days are starting to stretch pleasantly. With each passing month, sunlight continues to blossom, peaking in July with a dazzling 428 hours. The steady rise in sunshine not only enhances the beauty of the city’s historic skyline but also invigorates outdoor activities, making February an ideal time for exploration before the summer crowds arrive. As the days lengthen, visitors and locals alike can savor the welcome warmth and vibrant energy that Istanbul has to offer.
February in Istanbul marks a noticeable shift in the weather, with the likelihood of sunny days rising to 42%, a significant increase from January's 27%. This upward trend not only hints at the anticipation of spring but also signifies a gradual transition towards sunnier months ahead. Following February, the chances of sunshine continue to rise, peaking in the summer with 79% in July and 82% in August. While February may still be a mix of clouds and sun, it's clearly a herald of brighter days as the city prepares to bask in the warmth of the coming spring and summer.
As February unfolds in Istanbul, the city begins to bask in increased daylight, with the duration extending to 10 hours—an hour more than in January. This gradual lengthening continues into the spring, setting a vibrant stage for the months ahead. By March, daylight increases to 11 hours, further inviting residents and visitors to enjoy the blossoming city. As spring transitions into summer, daylight peaks in June at an impressive 15 hours, providing ample opportunities to explore Istanbul's rich history and scenic beauty. The pattern of daylight dwindles again toward the end of the year, with November and December returning to 9 hours. This rhythmic cycle not only marks the passage of seasons but also highlights the dynamic changes in the urban landscape as it adapts to varying lengths of daylight.
In February, Istanbul experiences a slight uptick in average wind speed, reaching 4.9 m/s (11 mph), which is just a whisper above January's 4.8 m/s (11 mph). This gentle breeze sets the stage for a transition as the city prepares to shake off the winter chill. As the months progress, the winds begin to taper off slightly, with March and April both seeing decreases. Notably, the city enjoys relatively steady winds during the peak summer months of July and August, before a resurgence in gustiness in October and December, which both peak at 5.2 m/s (12 mph). Overall, February’s mild winds serve as a reminder of change, hinting at the warmer, breezier days ahead.
Weather in Istanbul varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares February’s weather to other months in Istanbul, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between January and February, February tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F), compared to January's range of -3°C (27°F) to 16°C (62°F). Precipitation levels also drop in February, totaling 66 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 12 days, while January sees a higher precipitation amount of 102 mm (4.0 in) across 13 days. Both months share similar humidity levels at 84%. For more details on January weather, you can visit Istanbul weather in January.
February and March exhibit similar average temperatures, with February averaging 8°C (46°F) and March slightly warmer at 8°C (47°F). However, March tends to have slightly lower minimum temperatures, dipping to -2°C (29°F) compared to February's minimum of -1°C (31°F). Both months experience a comparable number of rainy days, but March sees a higher total precipitation of 82 mm (3.2 in) versus February's 66 mm (2.6 in). Additionally, humidity levels remain consistent, with February at 84% and March slightly lower at 83%. For more detailed insights on March weather, check out Istanbul weather in March.
February and April present notably different weather patterns. In February, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a more mild maximum of 17°C (62°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month sees substantial precipitation, totaling 66 mm (2.6 in) over about 12 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, April offers a warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a low of 4°C (40°F), peaking at a comfortable maximum of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). Precipitation decreases to 49 mm (1.9 in) across just 8 days, and humidity drops slightly to 76%. For more detailed insights into the weather during this month, check out Istanbul weather in April.
February and May present markedly different weather conditions. In February, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 66 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 84%. In contrast, May enjoys a milder climate, where temperatures rise significantly, ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (82°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation decreases to 50 mm (2.0 in) over just 8 days, with humidity also lower at 77%. For a detailed look at May weather specifically, visit Istanbul weather in May.
February and June in Istanbul present starkly different weather patterns. In February, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a mild maximum of 17°C (62°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). This month experiences frequent rain, with around 66 mm (2.6 inches) of precipitation over 12 days and high humidity levels at 84%. Conversely, June boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a warm maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F). Rainfall decreases significantly to 40 mm (1.6 inches) over just 7 days, while humidity drops to 70%. For more detailed information about June weather, check out Istanbul weather in June.
February and July showcase contrasting weather patterns, each with its unique characteristics. In February, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a mild 17°C (62°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, with 66 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, combined with high humidity levels at 84%. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (92°F), averaging 24°C (76°F). Precipitation is less frequent in July, totaling 53 mm (2.1 in) over just 5 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 63%. For a deeper look into the summer conditions, you can find more information at Istanbul weather in July.
February and August in Istanbul present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In February, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a mild 17°C (62°F), with an average of around 8°C (46°F). The month is relatively wet, with about 66 mm (2.6 inches) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a sweltering maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is minimal in August, totaling just 18 mm (0.7 inches) over only 3 days, and humidity drops significantly to 55%. For more detailed insights on the weather in August, check out Istanbul weather in August.
February and September present a stark contrast in weather patterns. In February, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a mild maximum of 17°C (62°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). This month experiences substantial precipitation with around 66 mm (2.6 in) falling over approximately 12 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 84%. In comparison, September boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (57°F) and a maximum reaching 32°C (90°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is significantly lower in September at 36 mm (1.4 in) across just 6 days, and humidity drops to a more moderate 60%. For more details, view Istanbul weather in September.
February and October present distinct weather contrasts. In February, temperatures can dip as low as -1°C (31°F) while averaging around 8°C (46°F) and peaking at 17°C (62°F). This month is also characterized by higher humidity at 84% and a significant number of rainy days, with 66 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days. In contrast, October boasts milder temperatures, starting at a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and averaging 18°C (64°F), reaching highs of 28°C (82°F). With less precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) over just 8 days and lower humidity at 73%, October offers more pleasant and drier conditions. For a closer look at October's climate, visit Istanbul weather in October.
February and November in Istanbul present distinct weather patterns. February features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), while November enjoys milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and averaging 14°C (57°F). Despite February's chill, both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with February receiving 66 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days and November slightly less at 63 mm (2.5 in) across 10 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, at 84% in February and 82% in November, making the air feel damp regardless of the season. For more details on November weather, check out Istanbul weather in November.
February and December in Istanbul present a relatively mild winter climate, yet they differ in key aspects. February typically features a minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (46°F), reaching a maximum of 17°C (62°F). In contrast, December has slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of 18°C (64°F).
Precipitation levels also contrast between the two months, with February experiencing 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain over about 12 days, while December sees more rain at 108 mm (4.2 in) over roughly 15 days. Both months have high humidity, hovering around 84% in February and slightly higher at 85% in December. For more detailed insights, you can check Istanbul weather in December.
As winter slowly gives way to spring, February in Istanbul presents a unique blend of chilly temperatures and refreshing rain. Unlike the milder and sunnier months that follow, February showcases a mix of comfortable afternoons contrasted with cold mornings and evenings. With an average temperature hovering around 8°C, visitors can expect occasional rainfall, contributing to a somewhat humid atmosphere that makes the air feel brisk and invigorating. Although the rainy days can be numerous, they add a certain charm to the city, especially when exploring its rich history and vibrant culture. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, check out Istanbul Climate.