Ankara in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Ankara
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect museum and indoor attraction weather - cool mornings at 17°C (63°F) ideal for walking, then air-conditioned comfort during hot afternoons reaching 30°C (87°F)
- Peak season for traditional Turkish breakfast culture - August brings fresh seasonal fruits like figs and melons that locals incorporate into elaborate morning spreads at neighborhood cafes
- Ideal timing for Ankara's rooftop scene - dry weather (only 10 rainy days) means rooftop restaurants and bars are consistently open with clear views of the city skyline
- Academic conference season creates busy cultural events - universities host summer symposiums and art exhibitions, offering unique access to Turkish intellectual culture
Considerations
- Afternoon heat reaches uncomfortable levels - temperatures climb to 30°C (87°F) with 70% humidity, making outdoor sightseeing between 12pm-4pm challenging without frequent breaks
- Many government buildings and official sites have reduced summer hours or close entirely for maintenance, limiting access to some key political landmarks
- Peak domestic tourism period drives up accommodation costs by 20-30% compared to shoulder seasons, especially around major attractions in Ulus and Kızılay districts
Best Activities in August
Anıtkabir Mausoleum Morning Tours
August's cool mornings make visiting Atatürk's mausoleum ideal before 10am when temperatures are comfortable at 20°C (68°F). The ceremonial changing of the guard happens hourly, and you'll avoid both afternoon heat and tour bus crowds that arrive after 11am.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations Cultural Immersion
Perfect air-conditioned refuge during hot August afternoons. This UNESCO-recognized museum showcases 9,000 years of Anatolian history. August brings special summer exhibitions, and the 18°C (64°F) indoor temperature provides relief from outdoor heat.
Traditional Hammam and Spa Experiences
August heat makes traditional Turkish baths particularly appealing to locals and visitors. Historic hammams offer real feels with cool-down rooms perfect for the warm, humid weather. Many feature rooftop relaxation areas for evening use.
Ankara Castle Sunset Photography Tours
August's long daylight hours and clear skies create perfect conditions for golden hour photography at the historic citadel. Temperatures cool to comfortable levels after 7pm, and the panoramic city views are spectacular during the extended sunset period.
Beypazarı Day Trip Cultural Tours
This Ottoman town 100 km (62 miles) from Ankara offers cooler mountain air and traditional crafts workshops. August brings the famous Beypazarı carrot harvest, and locals host cooking demonstrations featuring seasonal vegetables.
Gençlik Park Evening Recreation
Ankara's largest park comes alive in August evenings when temperatures drop to comfortable levels. Locals gather for traditional tea service, boat rides, and outdoor chess. The park's amphitheater hosts summer concerts and cultural performances.
August Events & Festivals
Ankara International Music Festival
Classical and traditional Turkish music performances held in historic venues across the city. Features both international artists and local conservatory students in intimate settings like the Yerevan and historic courtyards.
Summer Cinema Screenings at Segmenler Park
Free outdoor film screenings featuring Turkish cinema classics and contemporary works. Locals bring picnic dinners and gather on blankets for community movie nights under the stars.