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

December on the Sultan's Trail from Sofia to Istanbul presents a diverse weather pattern across regions. In Sofia, expect regular bouts of rain along with sunny spells and occasional freezing temperatures. Rila can be slightly colder with consistent occurrences of snow and rain. As the trail progresses into Pazardzhik and Kardzhali, conditions warm slightly but rain remains a frequent visitor. The last stretch through East Macedonia and Thrace into Istanbul often experiences overcast skies and moderate rainfall, with Istanbul marking the highest temperatures and varied rain patterns.

Forecast settings

Start date
Nov 26
Start town
Sofia
End date
Jan 10
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
7°C
Average low
0°C
Average precipitation
3.2 mm/day

Sofia

December in Sofia varies widely from sunny spells to days dominated by rain showers. Temperatures can drift from highs of 15°C to lows around -11°C. Rainfall isn't consistent but accumulates during occasional freezing rain episodes.

Rila

The weather in Rila becomes cooler with noticeable snow and rainfall. Highs fluctuate between 11°C and -5°C. The area endures frequent rain alternating with snow, particularly around the higher altitudes of Rila Monastery.

Pazardzhik

Temperatures in Pazardzhik range from mild to very cold, with highs of 13°C to lows plunging to -17°C. Snow, much like in Rila, is frequent, disrupting generally sunny or partly cloudy days.

Smolyan

In Smolyan, snow Showers are common through the month, and rain often punctuates the cloudy skies. Temperatures hover between 16°C during warmer days to chilling lows of -14°C, with a marked contrast in precipitation levels.

Kardzhali

The Kardzhali region balances rainy periods with sunny intervals, with temperatures peaking at 15°C. Precipitation is largely rain with rare snow, but occasional heavy rain periods dominate the forecast.

Haskovo

December in Haskovo varies with temperatures spanning from 17°C down to freezing lows. Initial cloudy days lead into December's latter half seeing more rain, including sporadic heavy downpours.

East Macedonia and Thrace

East Macedonia and Thrace experience shifting weather with skies usually overcast, touched by occasional sun. Precipitation is light, but frequent, often manifesting as rain with moderate intensity.

Edirne

Edirne offers a mosaic of December weather, with frequent cloudy days interspersed with sunshine. As the month progresses, rain showers become more prevalent, although temperatures maintain between 5°C to 17°C.

Istanbul

The December weather in Istanbul is a layered blend of rain showers and partly cloudy skies. Temperatures are relatively moderate, with highs around 13°C, dipping slightly lower at night. Rain is frequent, occasionally intensifying as the month advances.

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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