WEATHER, WHAT TO SEE, WHAT TO DO IN FEBRUARY 2025 IN ISTANBUL?

In February, Istanbul feels the full grip of winter, with cool temperatures and persistent humidity. Days often alternate between light rain and occasional clear skies, sometimes accompanied by morning mists that cloak the Bosphorus in a mystical veil.

This is an ideal time to immerse yourself in local culture by visiting museums and galleries, which often feature temporary exhibitions during this season. Indoor cultural spaces, including monuments and numerous cafés, are less crowded than during the peak tourist season, offering a cozy refuge from the cold while allowing for an exploration of the city’s artistic and historical treasures.

In February, Istanbul unveils a quieter, more introspective side, perfect for those seeking to experience the city away from the usual tourist bustle. Here’s what you can discover and do in Istanbul in the heart of winter:

WEATHER

In February, Istanbul’s winter climate persists, with temperatures typically ranging between 4°C and 9°C. The days remain short and chilly, often accentuated by brisk winds from the Bosphorus. To enjoy outdoor strolls comfortably, it’s advisable to bundle up with a warm coat, scarf, and umbrella, as rain showers are still common and may occasionally turn into light snowfall.

Sunny days, though rare, bathe the city in a soft winter light, perfect for visiting iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque or strolling along the Bosphorus. With a bit of luck, a light layer of snow may blanket the rooftops, adding a unique winter charm to the city.

CONCERTS

February 1 – Balkan Wedding Party: Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of a Balkan wedding at Babylon. This festive evening celebrates the vibrant music and dance of the Balkans, offering an experience filled with lively rhythms and captivating melodies.

February 7 – Queen Sensation: Bohemian Rhapsody: Relive the magic of Queen with a tribute show at Tersane Istanbul. This concert presents spectacular renditions of Queen’s greatest hits with impressive vocal and instrumental performances.

February 7 – From Baroque to Tango with Istanbul Klasik: Join Istanbul Klasik for a musical journey at Zorlu PSM, exploring the richness of classical music and the passionate energy of tango, bridging eras and genres in an unforgettable performance.

February 7 – Oceanvs Orientalis: Blind hosts DJ Oceanvs Orientalis, who transforms traditional melodies into modern electro sounds. This concert explores the boundaries of electronic music infused with oriental influences.

February 13 – Arc de Soleil: Experience Arc de Soleil in a concert that promises a fusion of musical genres. Prepare for an evening where enchanting melodies meet vibrant rhythms in a performance that defies traditional categories. At Salon IKSV.

February 15 – Amour at Pera Palace: The Istanbul Opera soloists present a night of romance and passion at the Grand Pera Ballroom. “Amour at Pera Palace” features works by renowned opera and operetta composers, celebrating love through music.

February 15 – The Ringo Jets: Turkish rock band The Ringo Jets perform at Blind, delivering an energetic show reminiscent of garage rock’s raw roots.

February 18 – OneRepublic: Join OneRepublic at the Volkswagen Arena for an evening of global hits. This American pop-rock band is renowned for dynamic performances and chart-topping songs.

February 19 – Borusan Quartet Chamber Orchestra: The Borusan Quartet graces the Kadıköy Opéra Süreyya with an evening of refined chamber music, showcasing their talents in both classical and contemporary repertoire.

February 20 – Mireille Mathieu: The iconic French singer Mireille Mathieu performs at the Volkswagen Arena, promising a night of timeless songs that transcend generations.

February 20 – Nirvana Tribute Band: Zorlu PSM hosts a tribute to Nirvana, allowing fans to relive the passion and energy of one of grunge’s most influential bands.

February 21 – Ferit Odman Quintet: Turkish jazzman Ferit Odman and his quintet captivate the audience at Zorlu PSM with a night of technical brilliance and creative flair.

February 21 – Back to the Future: Live: The Volkswagen Arena transforms Back to the Future into a live cinematic and musical experience to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Enjoy unforgettable moments with Marty McFly and Doc Brown, accompanied by Alan Silvestri’s enchanting score.

February 22 – Edis: Edis, one of Turkey’s rising pop stars, charms his audience at the Volkswagen Arena with his unique style and catchy hits.

February 22 – Baba Zula: Discover the oriental psychedelic sound of Baba Zula at Babylon, where tradition and modernity merge in a hypnotic performance.

VALENTINE’S DAY IN ISTANBUL

Valentine’s Day is well celebrated in Turkey, where love is honored with many couple-friendly activities. Many gourmet restaurants in the city offer special menus for the occasion (see our article: the best gourmet restaurants in Istanbul).

In Istanbul, you can also enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on the Bosphorus. We can organize an unforgettable getaway for you with an aperitif or dinner on board (see: Bosphorus cruise).

For a relaxing experience, why not treat yourselves to a hammam treatment for two at one of the city’s many traditional baths? (see our article on the most beautiful hammams in Istanbul).

Finally, a simple stroll through historic districts like Sultanahmet or Galata can be a beautiful way to share a special moment. In this season, most tourist sites are quieter, offering a peaceful and intimate atmosphere for those wishing to celebrate the occasion with a loved one.

EXHIBITIONS

Arter – – Angelica Mesiti, “The Persistent History of the Future”: Arter presents Angelica Mesiti’s exhibition, “The Persistent History of the Future,” featuring a video performance capturing the sound of a storm and fossilized raindrop photographs. The exhibition also includes Can Aytekin’s “Wall Drawing,” which transforms the atrium wall into a unique artistic space, incorporating shapes and molds from his Ters Yüz series.

Müze Gazhane – Mustafa Taviloğlu, “A Collector’s Story: Mustafa Taviloğlu”: Müze Gazhane hosts “A Collector’s Story: Mustafa Taviloğlu” under the theme “The Colors We See,” showcasing 242 works by 138 artists. This vibrant selection of abstract art spans from the 20th century to the present, offering a colorful exploration of modern and contemporary creativity.

AKM – Pablo Picasso, “Pablo Picasso: From Painting to Ceramics, An Adventure”: The AKM Gallery exhibits “Pablo Picasso: From Painting to Ceramics, An Adventure,” highlighting 170 original works by Picasso, including engravings, drawings, posters, and lithographs. This collection traces Picasso’s artistic journey from his Parisian beginnings to his role as a Cubist pioneer.

Bulgur Palas – Group Exhibition, “Magnum in Istanbul: Human Rights – Those Who Are and Those Who Are Not”: In collaboration with Magnum Photos and Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, this exhibition presents around 90 photographs inspired by the 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. A press tour is scheduled for January 14 at Bulgur Palas to introduce this powerful showcase.

Artİstanbul Feshane – Ahmet Güneştekin, “The Lost Alphabet”: At the newly restored Artİstanbul Feshane, “The Lost Alphabet” by Ahmet Güneştekin, curated by Christoph Tannert, explores themes of memory and migration. This multidisciplinary exhibition includes installations, videos, sculptures, and patchworks, delving into the history of forced migrations and collective memory.

THEATER & SHOWS

February 2 – Letter from an Unknown Woman at the Pera Palace: Immerse yourself in the Viennese world through the eyes of a young girl whose life changes dramatically when a young writer moves into the apartment across from her. Dedicated to the love she feels for the writer, known as Monsieur R., this story unfolds as Monsieur R. opens an anonymous letter on his 41st birthday, revealing a passionate and poignant tale of love from a woman he never knew.

February 11 – TROYA: The grand AKM Türk Telekom Opera stage presents an epic retelling of the legendary story of Troy. This opera captures the tragic and heroic essence of the ancient city, promising a night of dramatic grandeur and musical brilliance.

Every Day – Legends of Istanbul: Embark on a journey through time with Legends of Istanbul! This immersive show invites audiences to experience the enchanting atmosphere of Istanbul, brought to life through centuries-old legends. Featuring a mix of actors, digital visuals, and epic narration, the performance celebrates the ancient spirit of the city. Highlights include legendary figures like the Curse of Medusa and the Dazzling Dance of Hürrem Sultan, as well as iconic sites like Galata and Hagia Sophia. With 15 different costumes and an incredible cast, it’s an unforgettable dive into Istanbul’s history and mythology.

OTHER EVENTS

February 19 – Istanbul Connect: Join Istanbul Connect on February 19 for a next-generation networking evening. Open to entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals from all sectors, this English-language event blends relaxation with professional exchange. With a casual atmosphere, a bar, and light snacks, it’s the perfect opportunity for meaningful discussions in a convivial setting.

SPORTS

February 2 – Xtopia Presents: Artificial Intelligence, Art, and Digital Healing: Take part in Xtopia for a unique digital experience at the historic Alkazar Cinema and Cihangir Yoga. Artist Memo Akten invites you to explore an immersive world of deep AI-generated meditations, offering an interactive and contemplative performance of visuals and sound.

February 9 – Galatasaray vs. Adana Demirspor: Galatasaray faces Adana Demirspor at the Nef Stadium in this important Süper Lig match. A must-watch for fans of Turkish football, as both teams compete for crucial points in the championship.

February 16 – Beşiktaş vs. Trabzonspor: Experience the intensity of one of the season’s most anticipated matches as Beşiktaş takes on Trabzonspor. This encounter is vital for both teams and perfect for fans who enjoy Turkish football and its historic rivalries.

February 21 – RMO Boxing: This exciting boxing night takes place on February 21 in Sancaktepe. Turkish heavyweight hope Umut “REAL” Camkıran will face Azerbaijan’s Taryel Jafarov for the WBC ASIA and WBC GREATER TURAN titles. Other fighters like Tarık Sözer and Baki Yıldız will also deliver thrilling bouts.

February 23 – Galatasaray vs. Fenerbahçe: Don’t miss the Istanbul Derby, one of the fiercest rivalries in Turkish football, between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe. More than just a game, this match is a battle for pride and supremacy in the city, captivating the hearts of local and international fans alike.

In conclusion, February in Istanbul carries a mysterious winter ambiance. Cultural activities, artistic exhibitions, and sporting events keep the city alive, offering visitors and residents a wide variety of experiences to explore.

Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have!