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Weather Comparison

Istanbul vs Cancun

Side-by-side weather comparison for February

Istanbul: 9°CCancun: 26°C10,452 km apart

February Weather: Istanbul vs Cancun

MetricIstanbulCancunBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer9°C (48°F)26°C (79°F)Cancun
Average LowHigher is milder4°C (39°F)23°C (73°F)Cancun
Rain DaysFewer is drier12 days8 daysCancun
PrecipitationLess is drier71 mm36 mmCancun
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day10h/dayCancun
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%78%Istanbul
UV IndexLower is safer13Istanbul
Wind SpeedCalmer is better23 km/h20 km/hCancun

Which City is Better in February?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Cancun edges ahead as the better destination in February. Cancun offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 8 rain days, while Istanbul sees 7 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

Istanbul is on the cooler side at 9°C, requiring warmer clothing. Cancun is also comfortable at 26°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Cancun is the stronger choice in February. Cancun receives 3 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in February

Istanbul reaches an average high of 9°C (48°F) and drops to 4°C (39°F) at night during February. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Cancun averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. There is a notable 17°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

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

Rainfall Comparison in February

Istanbul receives approximately 71 mm of rainfall across 12 rain days during February. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Cancun sees 36 mm over 8 rain days. That makes Cancun the drier option by 4 rain days and 35 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 February

Highs of 9°C, lows of 4°C, 12 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Cancun in February

Highs of 26°C, lows of 23°C, 8 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

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.February 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
9°

Istanbul Weather in February

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

26°

Cancun Weather in February

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul warmer than Cancun in February?
No. In February, Cancun is warmer with an average high of 26°C (79°F) compared to Istanbul at 9°C (48°F), a difference of 17°C.
Which city gets more rain in February, Istanbul or Cancun?
Istanbul gets more rain in February with 12 rain days and 71 mm of precipitation. Cancun is the drier option with 8 rain days.
Is it better to visit Istanbul or Cancun in February?
It depends on your preferences. Istanbul averages 9°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 12 rain days. Cancun averages 26°C with 10 sunshine hours and 8 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Cancun. For fewer rain days, Cancun 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