WEATHER, WHAT TO SEE, WHAT TO DO IN JULY IN ISTANBUL?

Is the weather in July pleasant for discovering Istanbul? What to do in Istanbul in July?

July is the ideal month to enjoy the many attractions Istanbul has to offer. Whether you choose to stroll along the refreshing shores of the Bosphorus, explore colorful local markets, or discover stunning historical sites, the city is especially lively during this period. The long summer evenings are also perfect for enjoying the local cuisine at the many outdoor restaurants or for attending concerts and outdoor shows. Istanbul in July is synonymous with a vibrant and welcoming city, rich in cultural experiences and historical adventures.

Here is a list of activities to do in Istanbul in July to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture, offering a fascinating mix of art, gastronomy, history, and modern technology.

WEATHER

In July, Istanbul enjoys particularly pleasant weather, typical of hot Mediterranean summers, with temperatures generally ranging between 23°C and 34°C. Sunny days dominate, creating perfect conditions for all kinds of tourist activities and outdoor leisure. However, it is advisable to protect yourself from the sun during the hottest hours of the day by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and adequate sunscreen.

NEWS

Euro 2024 (June 14 to July 14): from June 14 to July 14, the Euro 2024 football championship will be held in Germany. Turkey, having qualified for the tournament, is expected to generate particular enthusiasm among fans. The atmosphere during the matches is expected to be electrifying. You can consult our special article to guide you through the best places in Istanbul to experience this competition, whether to support the Turkish team or your favorite team.

Istanbul Digital Expérience Museum: Dive into a universe where art meets advanced technology at Turkey’s first digital experience museum, which is also the largest in Europe. This innovation center offers interactive exhibits, virtual reality installations, and a variety of modern approaches that promise to transport visitors beyond their usual senses. Using technologies ranging from augmented reality to tactile interfaces and AI-supported applications, the museum offers an immersive experience where art and technology redefine the boundaries of creative expression.

Şerefiye Cistern video mapping shows: This historic water reservoir, dating back over 1600 years and located on the historical peninsula of Istanbul, is not only a testament to Byzantine engineering but also a dynamic cultural space. It incorporates a 360° projection system that allows visitors to explore Istanbul’s water culture through a series of immersive projections. These shows offer a three-dimensional perception of this historic space and can be viewed between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM daily. The shows start on the hour and last about 10 minutes.

CONCERTS

July 1 – Zeynep Bastık at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu: Turkish pop star Zeynep Bastık will perform in the open-air amphitheater for a vibrant and colorful concert.

July 5 – An Epic Symphony by Pentagram at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu: The award-winning show “An Epic Symphony,” which has become a cult favorite in Turkey, welcomes back the iconic band PENTAGRAM, accompanied by the Night Flight Symphony Orchestra & Choir for a new performance.

July 11 – İbrahim Tatlıses at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu: The revered İbrahim Tatlıses, known for his “arabesque” music, is preparing to meet his fans for a memorable concert.

July 12 – Goran Bregovic at Maximum Uniq Açıkhava: Join us for a wonderful summer evening with Goran Bregovic, a legend of Balkan music, on July 12 at Maximum Uniq Açıkhava.

July 13 – Peyk at İF Beşiktaş: The Turkish reggae/rap group Peyk will perform in the charming district of Beşiktaş.

July 13 – Stella Bossi at  Kafes X Milo: German DJ Stella Bossi, known for her unique videos and captivating performances that have transcended social media phenomena, will deliver a high-energy performance.

July 19 – %100 Metal presents Bruce Dickinson: Rock star Bruce Dickinson, famous for being the lead singer of the heavy metal band Iron Maiden, will perform at KüçükÇiftlik Park on July 19, as part of his European tour for his new solo album “The Mandrake Project.”

July 21 – Pink Martini at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu: The band Pink Martini, known for albums such as “Sympathique” and “Hang on Little Tomato,” celebrates its 30th anniversary with a concert not to be missed at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu.

July 24 – Massive Attack at Bonus Parkorman: British band Massive Attack, known for its major influence and innovation in music, will perform on July 24 at Bonus Parkorman, promising one of the most ambitious concerts of summer 2024

July 26 – Gipsy Kings Feat Tonino Baliardo: The Gipsy Kings, led by “El Maestro” Tonino Baliardo and famous for hits such as “Bamboleo” and “Volare,” continue their world tour and promise an unforgettable evening in Istanbul at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu.

FESTIVALS

From July 3 to 18 – Istanbul Jazz Festival

Since 1994, the Istanbul Jazz Festival has enlivened the month of July with an eclectic program going well beyond jazz, incorporating rock, pop, blues, reggae, and funk. This 31st edition highlights talents like Gregory Porter, the prince of rock’n roll Chris Isaak, and the famous saxophonist Joshua Redman, among other recognized artists such as YolanDa Brown and Baptiste Trotignon. The festival also welcomes Arlo Parks, rising star of the R&B, soul and indie scene, for his first appearance in Turkey.

The festival also offers jazz tours in the captivating atmosphere of Pera (Beyoğlu) and continues to introduce music to unusual places in Istanbul. Events like the +1’li Gece Gezmesi in Kadıköy, transforming the neighborhood into a nighttime festival with artists such as Baby’s Berserk and Thomas Azier, and the Caz Vapuru on the Bosphorus which offers performances by Brassist and The Big Rhythm, promise memorable evenings full of musical diversity. For the entire program, see here.

July 6 – Rock n’ Cruise: Embark on a memorable evening with the Rock n’ Cruise, where you can listen to the acoustic performances of the bands Pentagram and Razor. The concert takes place on a boat sailing along the beautiful Bosphorus, offering spectacular views of Istanbul. This is a unique opportunity to combine a relaxing cruise with great rock music.

July 20 & 21 – Feel Real Presents Babylon Soundgarden: This two-day festival takes place in the heart of the urban forest at Maslak Parkorman. Artists such as Floating Points and Mount Kimbie will be present, promising vibrant performances in a natural setting. In addition to the music, the festival offers various activities and creative spaces for a enriching experience.

July 20 – Cocktail & Chill Fest at the Chalet Garden of the Swissotel The Bosphorus: The Swissotel The Bosphorus hosts the Cocktail & Chill Fest, a festival celebrating summer with colorful cocktails, delicious food, and live music. This event is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the summer pleasures in an elegant setting. Mixology workshops are also held, allowing participants to learn to create their own cocktails under the guidance of professional bartenders.

July 20 – Mayan Warrior x Generic Music at Lifepark İstanbul: The Mayan Warrior, more than just a music festival, is an immersive experience where art and music come together to create a magical atmosphere. With performances expected from Ash and Jan Blomqvist, and other names to be announced, the event promises to be a dynamic celebration of contemporary culture. Light shows and artistic installations add an extra dimension to this already exceptional night.

EXHIBITIONS

Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum

The Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel, continues to impress with its scale and history. Located in the building of the Defter-i Hakani Nezareti (General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre), the Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum offers a deep dive into 1700 years of history of this iconic monument.

The museum provides a complete audiovisual experience spread over the last two floors of the building. On the third floor, you will discover the Roman Empire period, while the second floor is dedicated to the Ottoman period. On the first floor, an exhibition of artifacts, many of which are presented for the first time, is organized into four thematic sections: the Cathedral, the Mosque, the Museum, and the Mosque again. These artifacts tell the various phases of the building’s life, reflecting the eras and cultures that have succeeded one another.

Additionally, visitors can admire the cistern from the Eastern Roman period through the frameless windows on the ground floor, adding a unique historical dimension to the visit. The Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum offers an exceptional opportunity to comprehensively understand the rich and complex history of Hagia Sophia, making each visit a profound and educational exploration.

Istanbul Modern / Zamansız Meraklar – “Timeless Curiosities”

The “Timeless Curiosities” exhibition at Istanbul Modern is a deep exploration of how current technologies redefine art and artistic thought. By presenting works that use digital techniques and innovative media, this exhibition captures the essence of artistic curiosity across the ages. Visitors can expect to see how traditional themes of nature, history, and identity are revisited and transformed through the prism of modernity. The exhibition is not just a display of artworks; it is also a reflection on the evolution of artistic creation, offering a window into how contemporary artists integrate digital tools into their practice to push the boundaries of expression.

Arter /  Farz Et Ki Sen Yoksun – “Assume You Are Not There”

“Assume You Are Not There” is a captivating exhibition located at Arter, exploring the interactions between private collections and the public space. Curated by Selen Ansen, this exhibition offers an immersion into a universe where everyday objects are transformed into museum artifacts. The exhibition includes works from over 400 artists and spans several floors, providing an experience that challenges traditional museum conventions. Visitors are invited to reflect on how collected objects can transcend their everyday utility to acquire new meanings in an artistic setting. This reflection is enriched by installations that use familiar objects in unusual ways, encouraging spectators to reconsider their perception of the objects around them. The exhibition is a meditation on collecting as a creative act, raising questions about memory, identity, and permanence.

OTHERS

Outdoor Cinema at The Roof, Ritz Carlton

Enjoy movie nights under the stars on the elegant terrace of the Ritz Carlton. The screenings will start on July 2 with “Joker,” followed by the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy on July 9, 16, and 23. This is the perfect opportunity

 to experience your favorite films in an exceptional setting.

Euro 2024 Final at The Roof, Ritz Carlton

Do not miss the Euro 2024 final, broadcast live on a large screen at The Roof. Come experience the excitement of one of Europe’s biggest sporting events in a spectacular atmosphere. With panoramic city views, optimal comfort, and high-quality service, The Roof is the ideal place to watch the match as if you were in the stadium.

Potluck Picnic by Yabangee

Yabangee, an organization that brings together foreigners in Istanbul, organizes its summer potluck picnics again this year. These gatherings are a perfect opportunity to enjoy delicious food, good company, and the outdoors. The entrance is free and restricted to individuals over 18 years of age.In summary, July in Istanbul is a bustling time that offers a multitude of cultural activities, outdoor shows, and opportunities to discover the city’s rich historical and artistic wealth.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking for summer pleasures, Istanbul in July will meet your expectations with its vibrant events and stunning landscapes. Don’t forget to enjoy the long evenings to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this metropolis, where the past and present meet to create an unforgettable experience.