Ankara Weather in January

Cold, grey days

January feels properly wintry in Ankara. Days reach about 5°C, but nights drop to -4°C, and damp air and thick cloud can make it feel colder. Rain falls on several days, and you'll get little sunshine. Keep outdoor sightseeing flexible: Anıtkabir and Ankara Castle are worth seeing, but long walks can feel grim in wet, cold weather. Pavements may be slippery after freezing nights, so take care around the castle's steep lanes.

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a good choice when the weather turns. It gives you a warm, indoor look at the region's past, close to Ankara Castle.

A quieter month

January is winter low season, so Ankara's sights are usually quieter than in the popular spring and autumn months. You may also find better-value hotels than during those busier seasons, though prices vary. New Year's Day is a public holiday in Turkey, so some businesses and services may close or run differently.

If you hate crowds, January can suit you; just don't expect the lively feel of Ankara in warmer months. The cold and short days make it less appealing for a trip built around outdoor sightseeing.

Make the most of it

Plan a mix of indoor and outdoor stops, and use the metro between central areas when the weather is wet. Kızılay is a handy base for transport and cafés, while the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations pairs well with a short visit to the castle.

Travelling with kids? Keep the outdoor stop at Anıtkabir brief, then warm up indoors nearby. You can also try Ankara tava, a local rice and lamb dish that makes a cosy meal after a cold day. January's New Year holiday is the main nationwide date to know; don't count on a large city festival.