With over 90% of its population practicing Islam, Turkey transforms during this holy month as Muslims devote themselves to God through prayers and fasting from sunrise to sunset. During Ramadan in Turkey, the neighbhourhood mosques overflow with worshippers, and as evening approaches, the city comes alive with night prayers, colourful lights, and busy markets.
You can smell delicious Turkish food cooking in the restaurants while people break their fast with family and friends. If you’re visiting Turkey during Ramadan, you will witness the beautiful harmony between spiritual devotion and joyful celebration that showcases the true essence of Turkish religious tradition.
Let’s delve deeper into how Ramadan in Turkey is celebrated, and the best places to enjoy Iftar treats in some of the major cities of Turkey!
When Is Ramadan In Turkey
- Ramadan In Turkey Dates: Sat, 1 Mar 2025 to Sat, 29 Mar 2025
- Eid al-Fitr Dates: Sun, 30 Mar, 2025 to Tue, 1 Apr, 2025
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How Is Ramadan Celebrated In Turkey
- During Ramadan celebration in Turkey, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset each day. This means no eating, drinking, smoking, or intimate relations.
- People wake up early for a pre-dawn meal called "suhoor" before starting their fast. When the sun sets, everyone breaks their fast with an evening meal called "iftar," often enjoyed with family and loved ones.
- Turkish cities come alive at night during this month. Streets are decorated with colourful lights, and markets get busy with people buying special foods. Mosques are filled with worshippers for night prayers called "Taraweeh."
- The end of Ramadan is marked by a big celebration called "Ramazan Bayramı" (Eid al-Fitr). During this time, people pray together, enjoy festive meals, and give gifts. It's one of the most lively times to experience Turkish culture and traditions.
Ramadan In Turkey For Tourists: What To Expect?
When you visit Turkey in Ramadan, the routine changes a bit, but with some planning, you can still have a great time!
- Food: Many restaurants close or have shorter hours during the day when people are fasting. Plan your meals ahead of time.
- Getting Around: Buses and trains run normally, but expect more traffic right before sunset when people hurry home to break their fast.
- Being Respectful: Try not to eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours. Dress modestly, especially in religious areas.
- Sightseeing: Most tourist spots stay open, but might close earlier. Check their hours before visiting.
- Evening Fun: After the first day of Ramadan in Turkey, nights become lively! Explore cultural events, busy markets, and special foods like baklava, as people celebrate breaking their fast.
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Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey offers a unique spiritual atmosphere during Ramadan with illuminated mosques and special events throughout the city. While days may be quieter as locals fast, vibrant nights welcome you with extended shopping hours and lively eateries.
Mosques To Visit In Istanbul During Ramadan:
Events To Attend In Istanbul:
- Feshane Ramadan Feast (Feshane Ramazan Şenlikleri)
- Music concerts
- Theatre performances
- Talk shows on art, literature, and religion
- Art workshops for children
Best Places To Enjoy Iftar Treats In Istanbul
- Roof Mezze 360 - Humus, Pink Sultan, Beef Shish, Adana Kebab, and Lamb Chops
- Deraliye - Spicy Salad, Lamb in Tandoori, Roasted Chicken with Eggplant puree, Apricot, and almonds, and Katmer
- Ciğeristan - Stuffed Meatball, Lamb Livet Shish, Urfa Kebab, Adana Kebab, Choke Wings
Other Tourist Attractions In Istanbul: Galata Tower, Istanbul Archaeological Museum, Chora Church, Prince’s Island, Dolmabahce Palace, Grand Bazar
Konya offers visitors a deep spiritual experience, especially for those interested in Sufi traditions and the legacy of Rumi. In Konya, visitors can explore unique wooden mosques from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods and other natural attractions.
Mosques To Visit In Konya During Ramadan:
Events To Attend In Konya:
- Mevlana Cultural Center for Sufi events
Best Places To Enjoy Iftar Treats In Konya
- Cemo Restaurant - Mixed Grill, Lamb Neck, Oven Kebab, Meatball Tirit, Between Sheet, Bread Kadayifi
- Lokmahane - Recai, Mevlana, Etli Ekmek, Yag Somunu
- Ali Baba Fırın Kebap - Fırın Kebabi, Kola, Su, Kapa li Ayran, Limonata, Gazoz
Other Tourist Attractions In Konya: Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden, Mevlana Museum, Alaaddin Hill Park, Around the World in 80 Thousand Park, Kyoto Japon Parki
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Located just a three-hour drive from Istanbul, Bursa offers a perfect Ramadan getaway for tourists. The city blends Ottoman heritage with natural beauty through its historical mosques, madrasas, and preserved villages.
Mosques To Visit In Bursa During Ramadan:
Events To Attend In Bursa:
- Whirling Dervish at the Karabaş-i Veli Culture Centre.
Best Places To Enjoy Iftar Treats In Bursa
- Yuce Hunkar - Shepherd's Salad, Margarita Pizza, Vegetarian Pizza, Creme Caramel, Kunefe, Fruity Cup
- Uzan Et Mangal - Sausage, T-Bone Steak, Veal Chop, Turkish Delight, Beef Tenderloin, Baklava(with ice cream)
- Hayat Lokantası - Hunkar begendi yataginda tas kebab, pirinc pilavi, Kasap kofte + patates kizartmasi, Sut Helvasi, Bardak Su + Ayran
Other Tourist Attractions In Bursa: Tophane Clock Tower, Uludag National Park, Irgandi Bridge, Karagoz Museum, and Ramadan Bazar.
