Ankara in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Ankara
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect transition weather - warm afternoons at 79°F (26°C) ideal for outdoor exploration, cool evenings at 55°F (13°C) perfect for rooftop dining without summer's oppressive heat
- School season starts so major attractions like Anıtkabir and Ankara Castle see 40% fewer crowds compared to August, with comfortable 15-20 minute wait times instead of hour-long queues
- Harvest season brings incredible local produce - fresh grapes, pomegranates, and chestnuts appear in markets, while restaurants feature seasonal specialties like kabak çiçeği dolması at peak flavor
- Hotel rates drop 25-35% from summer peaks but weather remains excellent - shoulder season pricing with prime conditions for walking the old town's cobblestone streets
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain patterns - September's 10 rainy days come without much warning, potentially disrupting outdoor market visits or castle walks for 20-30 minutes at a time
- Significant temperature swings from 55°F (13°C) mornings to 79°F (26°C) afternoons require layered clothing and make packing more complex than stable summer months
- Some summer rooftop venues begin closing by month's end as establishments prepare for autumn schedules, limiting nightlife options compared to July-August
Best Activities in September
Ankara Castle and Old Town Walking Tours
September's mild 79°F (26°C) afternoons and cool 55°F (13°C) evenings create perfect conditions for exploring the historic citadel's steep 500m (1,640 ft) elevation climb. Post-summer crowds thin out significantly, allowing better photo opportunities and more intimate interactions with local artisans in Hamamönü district. The variable weather adds dramatic cloud formations perfect for castle photography.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations Cultural Tours
September's occasional rain makes indoor cultural experiences essential, and this UNESCO-recognized museum offers air-conditioned comfort during humid 70% humidity days. Fewer summer tourists mean more space to appreciate artifacts, and many guided tours include seasonal context about harvest traditions depicted in ancient Hittite exhibits.
Beypazarı Traditional Market Day Trips
September harvest season brings Beypazarı's famous Ottoman-era market to life with fresh walnuts, carrots, and traditional gümüş (silver) crafts. The 100km (62 miles) journey through Ankara's countryside showcases autumn colors beginning to emerge, while 79°F (26°C) temperatures make the historic bazaar's covered walkways comfortable for extended browsing.
Eymir Lake Nature Photography Tours
September's variable weather creates impressive light conditions for photography at this 25km (15.5 miles) south lake retreat. Migratory birds begin arriving, humidity drops from summer peaks making hiking comfortable, and the 2.5km (1.6 miles) lakeside trail offers perfect moderate exercise during cooler morning hours at 55°F (13°C).
Ankara Modern Art Gallery District Tours
September's unpredictable rain makes gallery hopping in Kızılay district ideal - multiple venues within 500m (1,640 ft) of each other provide easy indoor transitions. The contemporary art scene peaks in September as galleries launch autumn exhibitions, and comfortable 79°F (26°C) afternoon temperatures make walking between venues pleasant.
Atakule Tower Sunset and Night Photography Sessions
September's clear evenings and dramatic cloud formations from variable weather create exceptional sunset photography opportunities from Ankara's 125m (410 ft) tower. Comfortable 55°F (13°C) evening temperatures allow extended outdoor observation deck sessions, while the city's lighting looks spectacular against autumn's earlier darkness.
September Events & Festivals
Ankara International Film Festival
Turkey's second-largest film festival showcases international cinema across 15+ venues citywide. September's variable weather makes indoor cultural events especially appealing, and venues offer English subtitles for many screenings. Festival atmosphere enlivens Kızılay district with extended restaurant hours and cultural discussions.
Traditional Grape Harvest Celebrations
Villages surrounding Ankara celebrate grape harvest with traditional music, dance, and fresh pekmez (grape molasses) tastings. Day trips to Kalecik (30km/18.6 miles north) offer authentic rural Turkish culture experiences and wine tasting from local vineyards establishing autumn inventory.