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Weather Comparison

Istanbul vs Cancun

Side-by-side weather comparison for August

Istanbul: 28°CCancun: 30°C10,452 km apart

August Weather: Istanbul vs Cancun

MetricIstanbulCancunBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer28°C (82°F)30°C (86°F)Cancun
Average LowHigher is milder21°C (70°F)26°C (79°F)Cancun
Rain DaysFewer is drier3 days21 daysIstanbul
PrecipitationLess is drier21 mm146 mmIstanbul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier13h/day11h/dayIstanbul
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%78%Istanbul
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better23 km/h16 km/hCancun

Which City is Better in August?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Istanbul edges ahead as the better destination in August. Istanbul offers 13 hours of daily sunshine with only 3 rain days, while Cancun sees 11 sunshine hours and 21 rain days.

Istanbul sits in the comfortable travel range at 28°C. Cancun runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Istanbul is the stronger choice in August. Istanbul receives 2 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in August

Istanbul reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 21°C (70°F) at night during August. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Cancun averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in August.

Rainfall Comparison in August

Istanbul receives approximately 21 mm of rainfall across 3 rain days during August. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Cancun sees 146 mm over 21 rain days. That makes Istanbul the drier option by 18 rain days and 125 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Istanbul averages 65% while Cancun sits at 78%. Cancun will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Istanbul vs Cancun

Packing for Istanbul in August

Highs of 28°C, lows of 21°C, 3 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat

Packing for Cancun in August

Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 21 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat. These items are useful in either destination during August.

Year-Round Comparison: Istanbul vs Cancun

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.August is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthIstanbulCancun
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C13d25°C11d
Feb9°C12d26°C8d
Mar11°C11d27°C7d
Apr15°C8d28°C7d
May20°C6d29°C14d
Jun25°C6d29°C19d
Jul28°C4d30°C18d
Aug28°C3d30°C21d
Sep24°C7d29°C24d
Oct19°C9d28°C21d
Nov14°C10d27°C12d
Dec10°C13d26°C11d
28°

Istanbul Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Cancun Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul warmer than Cancun in August?
No. In August, Cancun is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Istanbul at 28°C (82°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in August, Istanbul or Cancun?
Cancun gets more rain in August with 21 rain days and 146 mm of precipitation. Istanbul is the drier option with 3 rain days.
Is it better to visit Istanbul or Cancun in August?
It depends on your preferences. Istanbul averages 28°C and 13 hours of daily sunshine with 3 rain days. Cancun averages 30°C with 11 sunshine hours and 21 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Cancun. For drier weather, Istanbul is the better pick.
How far apart are Istanbul and Cancun?
Istanbul and Cancun are approximately 10,452 km (6,491 miles) apart. Istanbul is located in Turkey (Europe) while Cancun is in Mexico (North America).
What is the best month to visit Istanbul and Cancun?
For Istanbul, July tends to be the best month with 14 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 28°C. For Cancun, May is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 29°C highs.

Compare Istanbul and Cancun in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Istanbul coordinates: 41.01°N, 28.98°E | Cancun coordinates: 21.16°N, -86.85°E