The Acropolis and Odeon of Herodes Atticus lit up at dusk

Istanbul at sunset over the Bosphorus, minaret and domes in silhouette

Athens vs Istanbul in November

Athens edges it in November. Athens averages 12–19°C with low-moderate crowds; Istanbul 9–15°C with low crowds.

By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026

Athens and Istanbul

The verdict for November

WeatherAthens has the better weather7/10 vs 5/10
CrowdsVery similarLow-Moderate vs Low
PricesIstanbul is cheaper€€ vs €€
OverallAthens comes out ahead8/10 vs 7/10

Athens in November

Cooler weather brings lower visitor numbers, better value and a more local-feeling Athens, while the Athens Marathon adds a major sporting weekend.

Temperature: 12–19°C
Crowds: Low-Moderate
Prices: €€

+Cooler weather brings lower visitor numbers, better value and a more local-feeling Athens, while the Athens Marathon adds a major sporting weekend.

–Rain becomes more frequent and evenings are cooler, making beach and rooftop plans less reliable.

Cooler weather brings lower visitor numbers, better value and a more local-feeling Athens, while the Athens Marathon adds a major sporting weekend. Rain becomes more frequent and evenings are cooler, making beach and rooftop plans less reliable.

Athens in November

Istanbul in November

Quiet returns

Temperature: 9–15°C
Crowds: Low
Prices: €€

+Crowds drop away and prices fall with them.

–Cooler and wetter — rooftop evenings become hit and miss.

The city to yourself, with the food scene at its best.

Istanbul in November

Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.

Another month