Things to Do in Winter in Turkey

It may not be as popular as Turkey's other ski centers, but Sarıkamıs is something of an in-the-know secret among winter sports lovers.

The vast majority of Turkey's tourists arrive on the coast during July and August, but if you want to escape the crowds at Turkey's most famous archaeological sites, head here in winter instead.

Surrounded by thick pine tree forest, Lake Abant is a freshwater lake in northwest Turkey, 39 kilometers south of the city of Bolu.

Palandöken Ski Center (also known as Ejder 3200) sits on the slopes of Mount Palandöken, seven kilometers from the city of Erzurum in Turkey's northeast.

Istanbul is a year-round city-break destination but there are a few really good reasons to head here during winter.

This small city, in Turkey's far northeast, has become a winter getaway destination in recent years. Its burgeoning popularity is due to it being the closest city to stay to launch yourself out on trips to Lake Çıldır and the many other tourist attractions of the northeast.

Uludağ (Mount Ulu) is Turkey's busiest ski center, thanks to it being within easy reach of Istanbul.

Turkey's most famous train route is the Eastern Express (Doğu Ekspresi) between Ankara and Kars, and winter is the most popular season to jump aboard.

A favorite winter destination for Turkish tourists, who flock here during February, Lake Çıldır is still well off most foreign visitor's radars.

The vast amount of travelers may arrive in Cappadocia between April and October but in winter, when the fairy chimney formations are topped with a dusting of snow, the landscape here is at its most magical.