Ankara in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Ankara

13°C (55°F) High Temp

2°C (36°F) Low Temp

33 mm (1.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect museum weather - crisp temperatures make spending hours at Anatolian Civilizations Museum and Atatürk Mausoleum comfortable without summer heat exhaustion
Dramatic autumn colors across Gençlik Park and around Ankara Castle create impressive photography opportunities that peak in early-mid November
Low tourist season means 40-60% cheaper accommodation rates and minimal crowds at major sites - you'll often have castle ramparts to yourself
Ideal hiking weather for Elmadağ Mountains (25 km/15.5 miles south) with clear visibility up to 30 km (18.6 miles) on crisp November days

Considerations

Unpredictable rain showers throughout the month can disrupt outdoor plans - always carry waterproof layers as storms develop quickly
Early sunsets by 5:30 PM limit afternoon sightseeing time and some outdoor attractions close earlier in winter schedules
Cold morning temperatures below 5°C (41°F) make early morning activities uncomfortable without proper layering

Best Activities in November

Ankara Castle and Old Town Walking Tours

November's crisp air makes the uphill climb to Ankara Castle (458m/1,503ft elevation) comfortable, with impressive panoramic views enhanced by autumn's clear atmosphere. The medieval streets of Kaleiçi district are perfect for exploration without summer's oppressive heat. Morning fog often lifts by 10 AM, revealing spectacular vistas across the capital.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is ideal, but guided tours (typically ₺200-400 range) provide historical context. Book morning slots to avoid afternoon rain showers. Check current tour availability in booking section below.

Anatolian Civilizations Museum Cultural Immersion

November is peak season for Ankara's world-class museums. The Anatolian Civilizations Museum, housing 9,000 years of Turkish history, is perfectly climate-controlled for November's variable weather. Pair with nearby Ethnography Museum and Roman United Kingdom ruins - all within 1.5 km (0.9 miles) walking distance.

Booking Tip: Museum passes (₺150-250 range) offer better value for multiple sites. Audio guides essential for context. Indoor activities perfect for November's 10 rainy days. See current cultural tour options in booking section below.

Atatürk Mausoleum (Anıtkabir) Photography Tours

November's dramatic skies and golden hour lighting (4:30-5:30 PM) create perfect conditions for photographing Turkey's most important monument. The ceremonial changing of the guard at 9 AM occurs in crisp morning air ideal for sharp photos. Autumn trees frame the monument beautifully.

Booking Tip: Free to visit independently, but photography workshops (₺300-500 range) teach optimal angles and timing. Early morning visits avoid crowds and capture best light. Current guided options available in booking section below.

Traditional Hammam and Thermal Experiences

November's cool, damp weather makes traditional Turkish baths especially appealing. Ankara's historic hammams provide authentic warmth and relaxation after cold morning sightseeing. The contrast between crisp outdoor air and steamy hammam chambers is distinctly November pleasure.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammams charge ₺150-300 range including massage and tea. Book afternoon sessions (2-4 PM) to warm up from morning touring. Look for places with proper heating systems. Check current spa tour packages in booking section below.

Elmadağ Mountain Day Hiking

November offers Ankara's best hiking conditions with temperatures perfect for exertion and crystal-clear mountain views. Snow hasn't arrived yet, but autumn colors peak in early November. The 1,853m (6,079ft) summit provides 50 km (31-mile) visibility on clear days common in November.

Booking Tip: Day hiking tours typically ₺400-600 range including transport from city center (45-minute drive). Book midweek to avoid weekend crowds. Weather can change rapidly - operators provide proper gear. See current hiking options in booking section below.

Ankara Food Market and Cooking Experiences

November brings seasonal specialties to Ankara's markets - fresh chestnuts, pomegranates, and warming soups appear in traditional kitchens. Indoor cooking classes are perfect for November's unpredictable weather, teaching regional Anatolian dishes while staying warm and dry.

Booking Tip: Cooking workshops range ₺200-450 and include market visits and meals. Morning market tours (8-10 AM) showcase seasonal November produce. Indoor venues essential for variable weather. Current culinary experiences available in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Mid to Late November

Ankara International Film Festival

One of Turkey's most prestigious film festivals showcasing international cinema across multiple venues. Perfect indoor cultural activity for November's variable weather, featuring both Turkish and international films with English subtitles available for many screenings.

November 29

Republic Day Celebrations

November 29th marks the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey with special ceremonies at Anıtkabir and throughout the capital. As Turkey's capital, Ankara hosts the most significant Republic Day events with military parades and cultural performances.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with breathable fabric - November's 10 rainy days bring sudden downpours lasting 30-45 minutes

Layering system: thermal base layer for 2°C (36°F) mornings, light sweater for 13°C (55°F) afternoons

Waterproof walking boots - Ankara's cobblestone castle district becomes slippery when wet

Compact umbrella - essential for sudden afternoon showers that characterize November weather

Warm hat and gloves for early morning sightseeing when temperatures drop near freezing

Power bank and waterproof phone case - cold weather drains batteries faster and rain can damage electronics

Moisturizer and lip balm - November's 70% humidity drops significantly indoors with heating systems

Scarf or neck warmer - winds around castle hilltop areas feel significantly colder than city temperature

Quick-dry travel towel - useful for unexpected rain and hammam visits

Sunglasses despite cool weather - UV index of 3 still requires protection, especially with snow glare from nearby mountains

Insider Knowledge

Locals start serious winter preparation in November - stock up on seasonal foods like salep (orchid root drink) and roasted chestnuts sold on every corner for authentic November Ankara experience

Take advantage of November's 'between seasons' hotel rates - book Sunday-Wednesday stays for 30-50% savings before winter business conference season starts in December

November mornings often have impressive temperature inversions creating fog layers below Ankara Castle - arrive at sunrise (7:30 AM) for photography opportunities most tourists miss

University students return from semester break in November creating busy nightlife in Kızılay district - evening restaurant and bar scenes peak after 8 PM when temperatures moderate

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating November's temperature swings - 11°C (20°F) difference between morning and afternoon requires serious layering strategy

Not checking museum winter schedules - many sites reduce hours or close certain sections for maintenance during November's low season

Assuming November is 'mild autumn' - Ankara sits at 938m (3,077ft) elevation making it significantly colder than coastal Turkish cities