WEATHER, WHAT TO SEE, WHAT TO DO IN SEPTEMBER 2026 IN ISTANBUL?

As summer slowly gives way to autumn, September is a great month to visit Istanbul. The city, still bathed in warmth, offers a more tranquil atmosphere, ideal for exploring its rich cultural and historical heritage under a generally clear and sunny sky. Here are a few reasons to choose Istanbul in September:

Pleasant climate: the summer heat softens, making the days ideal for outdoor activities. The weather is perfect for walking, strolling, and taking a cruise on the Bosphorus. The evenings can be mild, perfect for enjoying the city’s many cafes and terraces. Check out our recommendations for the best cruises and terraces in Istanbul.

Festivals and events: In September, Istanbul comes alive with numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions. It’s one of the great times of the year when the city pulses to the rhythm of artistic events and international meetings.

Less crowded: With the end of the peak tourist season, iconic sites like Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia are less crowded. Take advantage of our guided tours for an enriching experience.

Vibrant nights: Istanbul’s nightlife is dynamic with bars, rooftops, clubs, and restaurants that continue to offer memorable evenings. Check out our articles on the coolest bars in Istanbul.

Weather

In September, the weather in Istanbul is generally mild, marking a pleasant transition to autumn. The days remain sunny with temperatures fluctuating between 18 degrees at night and 27 degrees during the day, offering an ideal climate to explore the city without the burden of summer heat. Although the sky is mainly clear, sporadic showers may occur, bringing a welcome coolness after the hot summer months. It is wise to keep an umbrella handy for these occasions. The Mediterranean climate of Istanbul in September is less humid than in the south of the country, and the cooler evenings are perfect for enjoying terraces and nighttime walks along the Bosphorus.

Concerts

September 2–3

Fazıl Say Jazz Quintet at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu. Internationally renowned pianist and composer Fazıl Say presents “Say Plays Jazz on Tour with Škoda,” a new project that blends his musical universe with the free and improvised spirit of jazz. Accompanied by the Fazıl Say Jazz Quintet, he offers an immersive stage experience where original compositions, jazz rhythms, and Eastern and Western influences come together. Through an inédit repertoire, Fazıl Say invites the audience on a unique musical journey between artistic depth, improvisation, and emotion.

September 2 – Yung Ouzo at Dorock XL.

Yung Ouzo will take the stage at Dorock XL on September 2. A prominent figure in the Turkish rap scene, he stands out with his distinctive universe, modern flow, and energetic performances. The rock legend returns to Istanbul as part of his “One Assassination Under God Tour.” With his spectacular shows and classics such as “The Beautiful People,” “Tainted Love,” and “Rock is Dead,” as well as tracks from his new album (November 2024), Manson promises an explosive and unforgettable evening.

September 4 – Su Soley at the Chalet Garden of Swissôtel.

In the heart of Istanbul, in the unique atmosphere of the Swissôtel Chalet Garden, Su Soley presents “Dört Kraliçe,” a tribute to four great icons of Turkish pop: Nilüfer, Nükhet Duru, Ajda Pekkan, and Sezen Aksu. Their unforgettable songs will come back to life through Su Soley’s voice during an evening in two acts, filled with nostalgia, emotion, and a celebration of Turkish music.

September 4 – Sertab Erener at Harbiye Açıkhava.

Sertab Erener, one of the most powerful and iconic voices in Turkish music, will take the stage at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu on September 4. With more than 35 years of career, the artist will perform her greatest hits such as “Rengârenk,” “Aşk,” “Vur Yüreğim,” and “İncelikler Yüzünden,” for an evening filled with emotion, energy, and Turkish music.

September 4 – Teoman at Ataköy Marina.

Teoman, an essential figure in Turkish rock, continues his tour across Turkey and will take the stage at Ataköy Marina Açık Hava on September 4. With songs that have become timeless favorites across generations, the artist will offer an evening rich in energy and emotion, featuring great classics and iconic tracks such as “İstanbul’da Sonbahar,” “Paramparça,” “Duş,” and “Renkli Rüyalar Oteli.”

September 4 – Arctic Monkeys Tribute and Radiohead Tribute.

Arctic Monkeys Tribute and Radiohead Tribute will take the stage at Blind İstanbul on September 4. An evening dedicated to two iconic British rock bands, featuring their most beloved songs revisited live in an energetic and immersive atmosphere.

September 5 – Deniz Tekin and Cihan Mürtezaoğlu at Cennet Bahçesi, Burgazada (Princes’ Islands).

A unique evening awaits you at Cennet Bahçesi’s open-air stage in Burgazada. Cihan Mürtezaoğlu and Deniz Tekin come together for a special evening, bringing their distinctive musical worlds together with the unique atmosphere of the island.

September 5 – Can Bonomo at Paribu Vadi Açıkhava.

Can Bonomo will take the stage at Paribu Vadi Açıkhava on September 5, as part of his tour organized by Atlantis Yapım. An essential artist on the Turkish music scene, he will offer the audience an energetic evening driven by his distinctive universe and his most beloved songs.

September 6 – Ferit Odman at Swissôtel.

On September 6, Ferit Odman invites you to Swissôtel The Bosphorus for a Jazz & Chill evening. A recognized figure on the international jazz scene, the drummer is known for his powerful rhythms and elegant interpretation, offering a musical experience that is both refined and immersive.

September 6 – Sibel Can at Harbiye Açıkhava.

Sibel Can, one of the most iconic voices in Turkish music, will take the stage at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava on September 6, with Bayhan Müzik. Moving between pop, arabesque, traditional music, and fantezi, she will present a rich repertoire carried by a captivating stage presence and her greatest hits.

September 6 – Simge at Paribu Vadi Açıkhava.

Simge Sağın will take the stage at Paribu Vadi Açıkhava on September 6, as part of a concert organized by Atlantis Yapım. An essential figure in Turkish pop, she will captivate the audience with her distinctive voice, stage energy, and hit songs.

September 9 – Gece Yolcuları at Dorock XL.

Gece Yolcuları, one of the beloved groups of Turkish rock music, will meet their audience with their unforgettable songs and powerful stage performance. Bringing emotional melodies together with an energetic rock sound through beloved songs such as “Neden,” “Unut Beni,” “Meyhaneler Sen,” and “Hüzün,” the group will offer listeners an unforgettable night filled with songs everyone can sing along to.

September 11 – Leman Sam at Selamiçeşme Özgürlük Parkı, Kadıköy.

Leman Sam will take the stage at Selamiçeşme Özgürlük Parkı in Kadıköy. An iconic figure in Turkish music, she will share her distinctive voice and emotionally rich repertoire with the audience for a warm and authentic evening.

September 11 – Ajda Pekkan at Harbiye Açıkhava.

On September 11, Ajda Pekkan, the “Super Star” of Turkish pop, will reunite with her audience.

September 12 – Maher Zain at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava.

Maher Zain will be in Istanbul on September 12, 2026, at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu, as part of his World Tour 2026. An internationally recognized artist known for his powerful voice and his musical universe blending spirituality with modern music, he will perform iconic songs such as “Insha Allah,” “Thank You Allah,” and “For The Rest of My Life,” as well as tracks from his new album.

September 16 – Garou at Harbiye Açıkhava.

Garou returns to Turkey with his “The Best Of” tour. With his charismatic voice and major hits such as “Belle,” “Gitan,” and “Sous le vent,” the French artist promises an evening filled with emotion. Revealed to the world through his role as Quasimodo in the musical Notre-Dame de Paris, Garou will also perform songs from his new album “Un Meilleur Lendemain.”

September 18 – Gipsy Kings at Harbiye Açıkhava.

The legendary Gipsy Kings return to Harbiye on September 18 as part of their Historia 2026 Tour. Led by Tonino Baliardo, the iconic Latin music group will get the audience dancing with timeless hits such as “Bamboleo,” “Volare,” “Djobi Djoba,” and “Un Amor,” for a festive and unforgettable evening.

September 18 – Demir Demirkan at Blind.

Demir Demirkan will take the stage at Blind İstanbul on September 18. An essential figure in Turkish rock, the artist stands out with his powerful musical universe, distinctive voice, and intense stage performances. An evening of rock, energy, and emotion awaits you.

September 18 – Snarky Puppy at Volkswagen Arena.

The five-time Grammy Award-winning collective Snarky Puppy will take the stage at Volkswagen Arena on September 18. Blending jazz, funk, soul, gospel, rock, and fusion, the group creates a free and deeply groove-driven musical universe. With more than 20 years of career behind them, Snarky Puppy promises a rich and immersive performance driven by ever-evolving creativity.

September 19 – Palmiyeler at Blind.

Palmiyeler will take the stage at Blind İstanbul on September 19. An essential group in the Turkish alternative scene, Palmiyeler blends indie rock, psychedelic sounds, and pop influences to create a universe that is energetic, dreamy, and distinctive.

September 20 – Sans Âge at Hara Istanbul.

The Brussels-based duo Sans Âge, composed of Arthur Chambry and Ugnė Vyliaudaitė, will perform on Hara’s Garaj stage. Between trumpet, violin, melodica, percussion, and wind instruments designed by the duo, Sans Âge creates experimental and improvised music, where texture and the natural flow of sound become the heart of a unique listening experience.

September 27 and 28 – Sami Yusuf at Istanbul Congress Harbiye.

On September 27 and 28, 2026, Sami Yusuf will perform at İstanbul Kongre Merkezi Harbiye Oditoryumu. A major figure in world music, the international composer and performer will blend musical traditions, contemporary sounds, and spirituality. Between his iconic works and excerpts from his new album “Ecstasy,” he will offer a profound and immersive musical experience.

September 25 – Gevende at Babylon.

Babylon will open its new season on September 25 with Gevende. The Turkish band stands out with its distinctive universe, blending folk, psychedelic rock, jazz, and improvisation. An evening dedicated to discovery and musical freedom.

September 26 – Gaye Su Akyol at Blind.

Gaye Su Akyol will take the stage at Blind İstanbul on September 26. An original figure in the Turkish alternative scene, she blends psychedelia, rock, Anatolian sounds, and traditional influences with a contemporary and bold aesthetic.

September 26 – Tuana at Paribu Art.

Tuana will take the stage at Paribu Art on September 26. Having started making music at an early age, the artist quickly gained recognition with her original compositions and alternative pop universe, carried by songs such as “Cümlelerim” and “Aşk Olsun.”

Festivals

September 5 – K-pop P1Harmony at Life Park.

The group P1Harmony, one of the rising names in K-Pop, will be featured at the third edition of the Lifepark K-Pop Festival on September 5, 2026, at Life Park. Known for its futuristic universe, its blend of hip-hop and R&B, and its impressive choreographic performances, the group promises an energetic show featuring songs such as “Killin’ It,” “Back Down,” and “Do It Like This.” Singer AleXa, known for her dynamic performances and her victory at the 2022 American Song Contest, will open the evening at 5:30 PM. A true K-Pop experience awaits.

September 12–13 – Festibağ Festival at Swissôtel.

Festibağ returns for its fourth edition on September 12 and 13 at Swissôtel The Bosphorus & Chalet Garden, for two days dedicated to music, art, and gastronomy. Between wine tastings, local specialties, creative workshops, and musical performances, the festival invites visitors to celebrate the harvest in a unique setting in the heart of Istanbul. On September 12 and 13, numerous artists will take the stage, including Dolu Kadehi Ters Tut, Çelik, Ferda Anıl Yarkın, Ümit Sayın, Mansur Ark, Yonca Evcimik, and Yeni Türkü, accompanied by DJ sets and live performances. Tastings, cocktail workshops, candle-making, bottle painting, nail art, and many other experiences will complete this festive weekend. Festibağ thus offers a unique meeting point between music, art, flavors, and the spirit of the harvest, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy a convivial and creative weekend in Istanbul.

September 26 – Street Food Festival at Aura Garden.

On September 26, Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus will host the Street Food Festival at Aura Garden, for a day where gastronomy, music, and a festive atmosphere come together on the Bosphorus. The program includes street food, cocktails, experience areas, games, and activities, accompanied by performances from Ozan Doğulu, Yol Project, Anatolian Sessions, and resident DJ Deniz Aral. Between sunset, flavors, electronic music, and the atmosphere of the Bosphorus, the festival promises a unique summer experience in Istanbul.

September 27 – Momoko Gill at Yeldeğirmeni Sanat Merkezi, Kadıköy.

Momoko Gill, the self-taught drummer, producer, composer, and vocalist, is one of the distinctive talents of the British electronic and jazz scene. A collaborator of artists such as Alabaster DePlume, Matthew Herbert, and Tirzah, she develops a free and intuitive universe. Her first solo album, “Momoko,” released in February 2026 on Strut, further establishes this personal approach. Based in London, Momoko Gill will give her first concert in Istanbul on September 27 at Yeldeğirmeni Sanat, as part of the 36th Akbank Jazz Festival, with the support of the British Council.

Shows

September 29 – Emma Shapplin at AKM:

Emma Shapplin will perform at the Atatürk Kültür Merkezi – Türk Telekom Opera Hall on September 29. The French soprano, known for her unique blend of opera, classical music, and pop, will deliver a spectacular performance featuring her powerful voice and iconic repertoire.

September 19–26 – Istanbul Fringe Festival:

The Istanbul Fringe Festival returns to Istanbul for its 8th edition from September 19 to 26, 2026. Over eight days, local and international artists will come together for dance, theatre, and performing arts, as well as workshops, talks, discussions, and parties. The festival offers a creative and open space where artists and audiences can connect, discover new works, and build connections within an international artistic community. For more information: https://www.fringeistanbul.com

Exhibitions

September 23–27 – Contemporary Istanbul Edition21 at Tersane.

Founded in 2006, Contemporary Istanbul has established itself over the years among the major international contemporary art fairs, contributing to the cultural visibility of Istanbul and Turkey around the world. Having become a true “soft power” brand, Contemporary Istanbul has brought together galleries, artists, and cultural figures from different regions of the world since its creation. Hosted at Tersane Istanbul, the fair continues its mission of creating a cultural dialogue between Istanbul, Turkey, and different geographies around the world, based on international collaboration and exchange.

Artweeks Istanbul – From September 16.

Artweeks Istanbul returns with its Collectors Edition at Akaretler Sıraevler, bringing together three important private Turkish art collections. Organized by Bilgili Sanat, the exhibition presents a selection from the collections of Banu & Hakan Çarmıklı, Öner Kocabeyoğlu, and Tansa Mermerci, bringing together different generations of modern and contemporary art. Through these three collections, visitors are invited to discover major works as well as the stories and personal approaches that have shaped their development over the years. The exhibition is free to access in the historic buildings of Akaretler Sıraevler. Location: Akaretler Sıraevler, Beşiktaş. Admission: free.

All September – Pera Museum.

Osman Hamdi Bey is once again at the center of international artistic attention thanks to his presence in the exhibition “Orientalism: Between Fact and Fantasy” at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. At Pera Müzesi, visitors can discover his works from the Orientalist painting collection of the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation. Among them are iconic works such as “The Tortoise Trainer” and “Two Young Girls Playing Music,” offering an insight into the artist’s distinctive universe as a painter, archaeologist, curator, and educator. Opening hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM–6:00 PM | Friday late opening: 6:00 PM–10:00 PM. Free on Friday evenings.

All September – “Yüzyılın İzleri: Koç Topluluğu ve Sanat” at Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat.

On the occasion of the centenary of the Koç Group, Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat presents the exhibition “Yüzyılın İzleri: Koç Topluluğu ve Sanat.” Through a selection of artworks, objects, photographs, and archival documents dating from the 1920s to the present day, the exhibition traces a century of the group’s history and highlights its commitment to culture and the arts. Opening hours: weekdays 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM–7:00 PM.

Sports

Yoga

September 2 – 9 – 16 – 23 – 30 – Yoga at Sait Halim Paşa Yalısı.

Enjoy a Vinyasa Yoga class with an exceptional view of the Bosphorus at Sait Halim Paşa Yalısı. Every Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, the experience is open to all levels and led by Betül Eroğlu, an experienced YogaŞala instructor. An ideal opportunity to take care of both body and mind in a peaceful setting in the heart of the Bosphorus. Participants are invited to bring their own yoga mat.

September 11–13 – DenizBank Tersane Istanbul Rowing Cup.

On September 12 and 13, the DenizBank Tersane Istanbul Rowing Cup 2026 will bring international rowing competitions, concerts, gastronomy, and experiences for the whole family to Tersane Istanbul. From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, races in the Club, Coastal, Corporate, and University categories will take place on the Golden Horn, accompanied by DJ sets, food & drink areas, and activities. On September 12, Bergüzar Korel will present her concert “Hatırladıkça” at 7:30 PM. On September 13, following the finals and award ceremony, Pink Martini All Stars will perform at 7:00 PM, joined by Turkish guests for an evening blending jazz, Latin rhythms, classical music, and world music. Families can also enjoy The Land of Legends Kids Lounge, with children’s workshops and Nickelodeon Play! Character Surprise activities. A unique weekend where sport, music, and entertainment come together in the heart of the Golden Horn. For more information, click here: https://www.tersaneistanbul.com.tr/experiences/denizbank-tersane-istanbul-rowing-cup-2026

September 19 – Bosphorus Cup.

Enjoy an exclusive VIP experience at Çırağan Palace Kempinski with privileged access to the Race Watching area, panoramic views of the Bosphorus, and partner areas. Follow the races from land or aboard the official yacht for 45 to 60 minutes, with live commentary and race broadcasts. The experience also includes a premium brunch, drinks, and activities throughout the day, as well as a handmade Gorbon Seramik gift specially designed for the Bosphorus Cup. An elegant and privileged atmosphere where the refinement of Çırağan Palace meets the energy of the regattas on the Bosphorus. Children under 15 are not admitted. For more information, click here: https://www.biletix.com/etkinlik/5ORGA/TURKIYE/tr