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Although not a public holiday, Ramadan holds profound significance in Turkey (Türkiye) and the entire Muslim world. During the Arab Conquest, the Islamic religion spread in the territory of Anatolia and Central Asia, notably along the Silk Road. In the country, where, according to the Global Religion 2023 Ipsos survey, over 83% of the population identifies as Muslim, this holy month (Ramazan in Turkish) is embraced with great devotion each year. Given its importance, many wonder whether visiting Turkey during Ramadan is worthwhile. The answer is a resounding yes.
For tourists, Ramadan travel in Turkey offers a rare opportunity to engage with Turkish culture within a religious context. Additionally, most attractions remain open to visitors during specified hours, and the festive atmosphere provides a deeper understanding of local heritage.
This Turkey Travel Guide focuses on how Ramadan is celebrated across the nation and how travellers can experience this meaningful event. First, this guide examines what Ramadan is all about.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan, the ninth month and the holiest of the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, reflection, and devotion for Muslims worldwide. Ramadan starts the day after the sighting of the new crescent Moon. As the Islamic lunar calendar follows the moon phases, the beginning and the end of Ramadan differ every year.
Laylat Al Qadar, or the Night of Destiny, which is celebrated during one of the last ten odd days of Ramadan, is considered the holiest night of the year. The Archangel Gabriel (Cebrâil) is said to have appeared to the Prophet Muhammad (Muhammed) and revealed to him the Noble Qur'an, the Islamic holy book, known as the revelation. Laylat Al Qadar corresponds to this event.
As stated in the Noble Qur'an, Sûrah Baqarah - Ayat 183 (2:183–84), a version translated into English published by King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur'an: “O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqûn (the pious—See V.2.2).”See AlsoExplore 9 Family Activities To Bond During Ramadan With Nestasia20 tips voor het gezin tijdens de Ramadan – Islam-uitleg.nl15 things for a Family to do in RamadanRamadan and Family: Strengthening Bonds Through Shared Faith and Values
As evident from this passage, the essence of Ramadan transcends mere abstinence from food and drink. Similarly to the Lenten season in Christianity, during this month, it is also forbidden for Muslims to smoke and engage in marital relations from dawn to sunset. Ramadan is a period of spiritual enrichment, marked by Koranic recitations, prayers, and deep introspection. Observant Muslims re-evaluate their actions and seek reconciliation with Allah (God) and their loved ones. It is, therefore, unsurprising that Ramadan, enshrined as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, constitutes a cornerstone of the Muslim faith.
Religious practice of Ramadan:
- Fasting: (As-Saum) Fourth pillar of Islam, duration 30 days.
- Suhur (Sahur): Pre-fast meal before dawn, usually at 4 a.m. before the first prayer, Fajr.
- Iftar: Break of the fast—Announcement of the Muezzin to break the fast.
- Charity: Zakat—The third Pillar of Islam—“Sadaka” (voluntary charity) in Turkey.
- Nightly prayers: Tarawih. They are named “teravih” in Turkey prayers and are held each night.
- Recitation of the Qur'an
When and How is Ramadan Celebrated in Turkey?
Each day of fasting culminates in iftar (the evening meal), a communal gathering that begins after the sun sets and when the sunset prayer named Maghrib is finished. Iftars are typically followed by night prayers called tarawih (Sunnah prayers, which are optional prayers). These are joyous moments for family and friends to unite in shared devotion and gratitude. Muslims partake in suhur (the last pre-dawn meal) before resuming the fast at dawn. Not to forget the last meal, this is traditionally signalled by the sound of drums (davul), played by the Ramazan Davulcusu every day before dawn, to serve as an alarm clock to wake up the worshippers—the centuries-old Ramadan custom. They walk through the streets beating their drums and singing Ramadan songs called Mani.
The conclusion of this holy month is marked by Eid al-Fitr, referred to in Turkey as Ramazan Bayramı or Şeker Bayramı, the “Sugar Feast”. The grand celebration, which lasts three days in Turkey, embodies joy, mercy, and generosity as families exchange gifts, share meals, pray, and extend charitable acts to those in need.
Not all Muslims are required to observe the fast of Ramadan (Ramazan orucu). Exceptions are made for individuals with health conditions, travellers, pregnant or nursing women, the elderly, and prepubescent children, ensuring that the practice remains compassionate and inclusive. Nevertheless, missed fasting days can be made up throughout the year, either all at once or one day at a time.
In 2025, Ramadan in Turkey will span from 1 March to 29 March, followed by the jubilant Ramazan Bayramı festivities from 30 March to 1 April. In 2026, Ramadan will take place from 17 February to 19 March. In 2030, Ramadan will occur twice within the same year, once at the beginning and again at the end. The first Ramadan is anticipated to start around January 6, with Eid Al-Fitr falling on February 5. Ramadan will then commence again on December 26. This unique occurrence will result in a total of 36 days of fasting that year.
How Can Visitors Experience Turkey During Ramadan?
Since Ramadan rituals have become more visible in recent years, tourists now have the chance to participate in this unique occasion in all its vibrancy. Although many restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, souvenir shops, and markets adjust their operating hours, they remain accessible during the day, ensuring visitors can purchase essential goods or enjoy a snack with ease. Nevertheless, newcomers should be mindful of certain etiquette rules during fasting.
Visiting Turkey during Ramadan can be a real adventure. As the sun sets, the atmosphere changes into one of celebration and community. Five-star hotels and restaurants cater to elegant iftar dinners, Ramadan festivals spring to life near iconic historical landmarks, and shopping malls turn into lively gathering spots featuring themed shopping and entertainment dedicated to the season.
Whether first-time or experienced travellers, Ramadan enables one to take in some rare traditions when it happens. Here are some Ramadan travel destinations in Turkey to add to your list, along with events following the fast.
Attend Ramadan Festivals at Turkey’s Main Landmarks
Istanbul Municipality organises vibrant Ramadan festivals around the Blue Mosque (Sultânahmed Camii), ArtIstanbul Feshane Artistic Centre in Fatih, and Talimhane Street (Talimhane Sokağı) near Taksim Square. Hundreds of food and drink stalls line the streets, complemented by various cultural events that enliven the area.
Shopping enthusiasts can find a wide selection of religious-themed products, including copies of the Holy Book, religious literature, Misbaha (tesbih) prayer beads, home Ramadan décor sets, and Eid gifts. Some stalls are styled to resemble traditional Ottoman houses, with vendors dressed in authentic Ottoman attire.
In the beautifully restored historic neighbourhood of Hamamönü in Ankara, visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. At the Altınköy Open Air Museum (Altınköy Açık Hava Müzesi), the traditional village often hosts special events during the holy month. Youth Park (Gençlik Parkı) also becomes a lively place where families meet to break their fast amidst green gardens and illuminated fountains.
In Izmir, the spirit of Ramadan is equally vibrant. Cumhuriyet Square is a central hub for celebrations for locals and tourists alike. The City Townhall Facilities (Kibar Mahallesi Belediye Hizmet Kompleksi) hold cultural programs and iftar dinners. For those interested in the arts, the Nedret Güvenç Tiyatro Sahnesi theatre presents folklore performances.See AlsoThe family and Ramadaan - Islam Question & Answer
Join Iftar Celebrations
During Ramadan in Turkey, fast-breaking events are jubilant celebrations, perceived as a reward for observing the fast. As the sacred du'a ascribed to the Prophet Muhammad in Islamic tradition states: “The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed if Allah [ta 'Alã] Wills!” (source: Abū Dāwūd 2/306 and others. See also al-Albãnī; Ṣaḥīḥul-Jãmi' as-Sagheer #4/209).
Iftar tables and tents are a hallmark of this holy month. Often organised by municipalities, these communal spaces serve meals to all who desire them, fostering a sense of unity and generosity. To follow the tradition, as Prophet Muhammad used to do, Turks, like other Muslims around the world, break their fast with dates and water. Immediately after breaking the fast, Turks traditionally savour olives and other light snacks, widely available from street vendors. Given the crowds in cafes and restaurants, it is highly advisable to secure a reservation in advance. Locals also enjoy picnicking in scenic locations overlooking mosques—Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) Park in Istanbul is a popular choice.
No Ramadan experience is complete without sampling Ramazan pidesi, a soft, round flatbread traditionally baked for iftar and suhur. Güllaç is a specific Ramadan Turkish sweet pastry dessert. Another delicacy is signature Ramazan şerbeti, a fragrant, sweet drink made with rose petals, liquorice, strawberries, peaches, seasonal fruits, or almond shavings.
For those preferring luxury venues, five-star hotels and upscale restaurants host lavish iftar dinners. The menus extend beyond traditional cuisine to include Mexican, Italian, Greek, and Asian fare. These opulent feasts make Ramadan a remarkable time to uncover the country’s cultural and gastronomic richness.
Entertainment During Ramadan in Turkey
Majestic architecture, sultans, palaces, and harems are likely the first things that spring to mind when one reflects on the former grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Ramadan provides a glimpse into this cultural richness. In the evenings, after the daily fast, people start filling the streets. As darkness falls, residents not only indulge in delectable meals but also entertaining events.
Delight in the Ottoman Art Expressions
Unlike the bustling crowds of the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) and ArtIstanbul Feshane Cultural Centre in Fatih, the festival at Talimhane Sokağı in Istanbul exudes a more intimate and authentic atmosphere. It showcases stalls of craftsmen and artisans from across Turkey, selling handmade Turkish art, including jewellery, exquisite miniatures, and masterfully painted ceramics. Life-size black-and-white photographs depicting scenes from Ottoman daily life are prominently displayed along the stalls. The street evolves into a living tribute to the Ottoman period, demonstrating replicas of traditional houses, spice shops, food stalls, and whirling dervishes.
During Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha in Turkey, the luminous inscriptions suspended between the minarets of mosques catch the attention of onlookers. These glowing displays, known as mahya, convey inspirational verses from the Noble Qur'an, crafted through the arrangements of lights. The art of mahya is a cherished tradition that has spanned over four centuries. However, the number of skilled artisans, known as mahyacı, capable of creating and installing these decorative signs has dwindled, as the tradition struggles to captivate the interest of younger generations.
Dress Like the Ottoman Sultan or Kadın
There is no better way to feel a part of the festival than dressing up in the traditional Ottoman attire and capturing a memorable photograph. Several on-site rental studios, such as the Ottoman Costume Photo Studio or Zumrut Studio near the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, allow visitors to accentuate the Ottoman period wardrobe.
Watch Traditional Theatre Performances
Among the interesting aspects of theatrical entertainment during Ramadan in Turkey are performances such as Karagöz (Karagöz ve Hacivat, a traditional shadow show) and Meddah (a traditional form of storytelling, akin to stand-up comedy). Both are recognised as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage. These art forms gained substantial popularity during the Ottoman era. The colourful wooden puppets used in Karagöz, manipulated by a lead artist, still appeal to an audience, particularly children. Tourists can observe puppet shadow plays and storytelling shows on the streets and in shopping centres.
In like manner, parents can take their children to the Istanbul Kartal Sanat Theatre (Kartal Sanat Tiyatrosu) to watch The Little Prince or to the Torium Scene to enjoy Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Admire the Melodies of Turkish Music
Ramadan evenings orchestrate a symphony of cultural and musical expression, where the melodies of Turkish music—traditional, folk, and classical—resonate with profound artistry. Last year, during the early days of Ramadan, the Istanbul Ramadan Concert at the AKM Theatre Hall set the stage for folk tunes, traditional dances, hymns, and the stirring Janissary march.
In addition to these performances, Istanbul’s cultural calendar includes jazz evenings headlined by luminaries such as Serenad Bağcan and Jehan Barbur. Prestigious venues like Maximum Uniq and the Bostancı Show Centre (Bostancı Gösteri Merkezi) frequently host enthralling classical music recitals. Meanwhile, Sultanahmet Street converts into an open-air stage, where the mystical strains of Sufi music fill the night air. Performers in traditional attire wield instruments like the saz, a stringed instrument of Ottoman heritage, often accompanied by the soulful mey, both of which were pivotal in Ottoman court music. These hauntingly lyrical sounds transport audiences to a bygone era of artistic refinement, particularly in meyhanes, which are traditional restaurants where the New fasil (Fasl-ı Cedid)— an ensemble of classical Turkish music — enhances the ambience.
Ankara, the capital, mirrors this cultural vibrancy and exclusive Ramadan programs staged at distinguished premises. The Presidential Symphony Concert Hall (Cumhurbaşkanlığı Senfoni Orkestrası), IF Performance Hall, VIP Sahne Ankara, CSO Ada Ankara, and Bilkent Concert Hall regularly open their doors for performances blending tradition and contemporary flair.
Izmir, too, embraces the spirit of Ramadan via an eclectic array of concerts and events. Venues such as Ooze Venue, İzmir Arena, and İzmir Performance Hall serve as creative hotspots that celebrate the sacred month through music, dance, and art.
Head to the Ramadan-themed Shopping Centres
Shopping malls are another Ramadan highlight in Turkey. The Mall of Istanbul, or İstanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall, CEPA Shopping Centre, and Karum AVM Mall in Ankara; İzmir Optimum and Forum Bornova in Izmir are festive places of live music, shadow shows, and fun activities for children. Visitors will encounter the scene reminiscent of an Ottoman neighbourhood—Turkish carpets, lanterns, eight-pointed stars, carts carrying Ramadan candies, and some café and restaurant staff clad in Ottoman clothing.
When invited to an iftar dinner or visiting friends during Ramadan in Turkey, one should consider bringing a thoughtful Ramadan-themed souvenir for the host. Popular choices include elegant prayer mats, aromatic candles, or oil diffusers. These items not only express appreciation but also deeply connect to the spirit of this special time.
Other Ramadan Travel Destinations in Turkey
Other notable cities to visit on Ramadan are Bursa and Konya. Bursa, a mere three-hour drive from Istanbul, was the inaugural capital of the Ottoman Empire. It ranks among the top destinations for religious tourism, attracting pilgrims to its iconic Grand Mosque and the tombs of prominent Islamic figures.
Equally significant is Konya, the birthplace of Rumi (Mevlânâ Celâleddîn-i Rûmî), the renowned Sufi saint, scholar, poet, and Persian mystic. Pilgrims and admirers of his work gather annually at his mausoleum to honour his legacy. He funded the Mevlevi Order in Konya, whose members are also known as the “whirling dervishes”. Moreover, the city boasts rare architectural treasures in its wooden mosques.
Visit Small Towns of Turkey
For an authentic Ramadan experience, adventurers may wish to visit some of the most charming towns in Turkey. What are the options? To name a few, Safranbolu, Gölyazı, Çamlıhemşin, Ayvalık, Midyat, and Selimiye are quaint towns where guests can feel pure Turkish culture and cuisine. Furthermore, these towns boast a serene atmosphere and unique architecture free from the hustle and bustle of big cities, traffic, and pollution.
One thing to remember when visiting small cities and villages during the holy month is the difference in daily routines compared to those in Turkey’s metropolitan hubs. Whilst many shops in Istanbul and Ankara remain open throughout the day, smaller towns and rural areas adhere more strictly to traditional Ramadan customs. Consequently, most shops and markets in these locales will typically remain closed for the entire day until the iftar meal, when the fast is broken.
Attend the Muezzin Competition in Edirne
The muezzin's call to prayer, or adhan, holds profound significance in Islamic tradition. It serves as a melodic summons to the faithful, marking the five daily prayer times and fostering a sense of unity within the Muslim community. The adhan's delivery is considered an art form, with competitions held in Turkey’s city of Edirne to identify the most melodious voices. Traditionally, the muezzin would ascend the mosque's minaret to deliver the call, but in modern times, this practice has evolved with the use of microphones and loudspeakers.
Spend Ramadan by the Sea
What about spending Ramadan by the sea? The famous beach towns in Turkey, such as Bodrum, Marmaris, and Alanya, are picturesque destinations providing a tranquil escape, stunning waterfront views, and sunsets. Many seaside restaurants and resorts cater to special iftar menus. In major cities and popular tourist destinations like these, daily life largely remains unaffected, albeit some considerations are necessary. For instance, some stores may modify their opening hours to accommodate fasting schedules. Visitors are advised to refrain from smoking or eating in public out of respect for those observing the fast. Similarly, alcohol consumption in public spaces should be avoided to maintain the respectful atmosphere of Ramadan.
Wishing Ramadan Mubarak in Turkey
If you would like to socialise with locals during Ramadan in Turkey, the best way is to show interest in your guests' culture. So even if you don't speak Turkish, a few sentences of good wishes, even if pronounced in an improbable Turkish, will always please the people to whom you address them.
"Ramazanınız mübarek olsun!", "Hayırlı Ramazanlar" or "Iyi Ramazanlar", meaning "May your Ramadan be blessed!
"Allah kabul etsin" meaning “May Allah (God) accept your fasting”, to someone who is fasting.
“Bayramınız Kutlu Olsun”, meaning “May your holiday be blessed”, to wish a Happy Eid Mubarak.