Got a Fall Trip Planned to Turkey? Here’s What to Wear

Got a fall trip planned to Turkey? Turkey can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 68°F (that's 20°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Turkey, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Turkey in fall—whether you're visiting the Hagia Sophia, exploring the Topkapi Palace, strolling through the Grand Bazaar, or taking a cruise on the Bosporus Strait.

🔗 What should women wear in Turkey in fall?

Turkey in fall is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: light jacket, cardigans, lightweight comfortable shoes, jeans, and long skirts. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Turkey has to offer. Keep in mind that Turkey is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Turkey, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Turkey in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Turkey? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Turkey, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Long skirts

Many women pack skirts as a staple for their travel wardrobe, but often overlook the long skirt. Though less popular than their shorter counterparts, long skirts offer a number of advantages that make them ideal for travel. For one, they tend to be more versatile than short skirts, as they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. They also offer more coverage, which can be important in hot weather or when exploring more conservative cultures like Turkey. And don't forget, long skirts are often more comfortable than shorter styles, as they are not going to ride up or constrict movement.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 What should men wear in Turkey in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: collared shirts, sweaters, lightweight pants, sneakers or loafers, and light jacket. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Turkey in comfort and style. While you won't need to be quite so covered as the ladies, it's still a good idea to respect cultural norms and not wear anything that would draw too much attention.

🔗 Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Turkey. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to Turkey that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Turkey. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Turkey, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

These would be perfect:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Turkey will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Turkey has to offer!