Sea you in a moment
Hang tight. We're checking the weather.
Sea you in a moment
Hang tight. We're checking the weather.
Turkey · Ships call at Istanbul, Turkey
Cold and wet, the wettest month
Istanbul in December brings cooler conditions, with highs around 51°F, so pack layers alongside your warm-weather gear. Rain is uncommon, with only about 5 rainy days expected across the month, ideal for beach days and shore excursions. Cold and wet, the wettest month.
Crowds are moderate in December, making it a good balance between availability and weather. Dress in layers: a waterproof shell over a mid-layer handles the range between cool mornings and afternoon port temps.
Affiliate links — these help keep our site free by earning us a commission at no extra cost to you.
Tours via Viator. Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews. Booking through our links keeps this site free at no cost to you.
Sailings that are at sea during December, with the date each one leaves port.
Exploration of the Mediterranean
Fred Olsen Cruises
Sails Sep 30, 2026
Coastal Treasures of the Mediterranean
Fred Olsen Cruises
Sails Oct 8, 2026
Croatia, Greece, Turkey & the Canaries
Fred Olsen Cruises
Sails Oct 19, 2026
Turkey & the Islands of the Canaries & Greece
Fred Olsen Cruises
Sails Oct 29, 2026
Mediterranean Icons
Fred Olsen Cruises
Sails Nov 9, 2026
Mediterranean's Iconic Shores
Viking Cruises
Sails Nov 11, 2026
Ships use Galataport in Karaköy, on the European side, across the Golden Horn from the old city. Istanbul Airport is about 45 minutes to over an hour away by car, and the T1 tram to Sultanahmet stops across the road from the terminal.
The average high temperature in Istanbul during December is 51°F, with a low of 44°F.
Istanbul typically sees 5 days of rain in December. Cold and wet, the wettest month.
For a December cruise to Istanbul, you should pack warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and thermal wear.