Weather forecast for the Sultan's Trail: Sofia - Istanbul in December

Forecast settings

Start date
Nov 12
Start town
Sofia
End date
Dec 27
End town
Istanbul
Units
metric (°C, mm, km)
Change forecast settingsSwitch to imperial units (°F, in, mi)
Total days
46
Total distance
978 km
Daily distance
21.3 km
Average high
9°C
Average low
2°C
Average precipitation
2.7 mm/day

The Sultans Trail from Sofia to Istanbul takes you through a variety of weather conditions over the course of the route.

In Bulgaria, as you make your way through regions like Sofia, Samokov, and Smolyan, expect cold temperatures ranging from average highs of around 3°C to 8°C, with lows often dipping below freezing, reaching as cold as -9°C. The area frequently experiences mixed weather; sunshine can be common, but cloudy and overcast conditions are also prevalent. Precipitation varies, with days of rain, light freezing conditions, and occasional snow.

Crossing into Turkey, starting in Edirne and moving towards Istanbul, the climate is relatively milder compared to Bulgaria. Expect average highs around 7°C to 11°C and lows from 0°C to 6°C. There tends to be more sunshine here, with partly cloudy conditions being usual. The region can still experience rain, including heavy showers at times, and infrequent light freezing rain, but snow becomes less common as you approach Istanbul.

Overall, the trail presents a gradual change from colder, more variable winter weather in Bulgaria to milder and slightly wetter conditions as you head towards the Bosphorus.

This overview is for an early December start, walking the standard stages.
But, I'll be happy to make one specifically for this forecast.

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