How Long Is Summer Break in Turkey? School Holiday Guide 2024

Are you curious about how long summer break lasts in Turkey, or planning a family trip and want to know when Turkish schools are out? Understanding the school holiday calendar is key for parents, students, teachers, and even travelers who want to make the most of the vibrant Turkish summer. In this friendly guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about summer break in Turkey—how long it lasts, when it starts and ends, and what families typically do during this time. We’ll also answer some common questions so you can plan ahead with confidence!

What Is Summer Break in Turkey?

Summer break in Turkey is the longest holiday period for students and teachers in primary and secondary schools. It’s a much-anticipated time when students get to relax after a busy academic year, enjoy the sunshine, spend time with family, and travel. For many families, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore Turkey’s beautiful beaches, historical sites, or simply unwind at home.

How Long Is Summer Break in Turkey?

On average, summer break in Turkey lasts about 11 to 12 weeks. The holiday usually starts in mid-June and runs until early or mid-September. This gives students a solid three months off from their studies—a similar length to summer holidays in many European countries.

• Primary and Secondary Schools: Approximately 11-12 weeks (mid-June to mid-September)
• High Schools: Generally the same duration as primary schools
• Universities: University summer breaks may vary but are often similar or slightly shorter

When Does Summer Break Start and End?

The exact dates for summer break change slightly each year, as they’re set by Turkey’s Ministry of National Education. Typically:

• Start: The last day of school is usually around the second or third week of June.
• End: The new academic year generally begins in the second week of September.

This means students and teachers enjoy a full summer to rest and recharge before heading back to school.

2024 Summer Break Dates in Turkey

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the summer holiday schedule for most schools is as follows:

• Last day of school: June 14, 2024
• First day of new school year: September 9, 2024

That’s a total of about 12 weeks off!

What Do Students Do During Summer Break?

Summer break is a special time for Turkish students. Here’s how many families and kids spend their holidays:

• Travel: Many families take advantage of the long break to visit relatives, go on vacation to Turkey’s stunning coasts (like Antalya or Bodrum), or explore cultural cities such as Istanbul or Izmir.
• Camps & Courses: Some students join summer camps or take short courses in languages, sports, music, or arts to learn new skills while having fun.
• Rest & Play: Of course, plenty of kids use this time to relax, play with friends, swim, and enjoy outdoor activities.
• Work Experience: Older students sometimes take up part-time jobs or internships to gain experience.

Why Is Summer Break Important?

The long summer holiday is more than just a break from lessons—it’s an essential part of Turkish culture. It gives children the chance to unwind, develop social skills, and spend quality time with family. For many parents who work during the year, it’s an opportunity to take family vacations or return to their hometowns for extended visits.

How Does Turkey’s Summer Break Compare Internationally?

Turkey’s summer holiday is similar in length to many European countries. For example:

• France: About 8 weeks
• Germany: 6 weeks (varies by state)
• UK: Around 6 weeks
• USA: Typically 10-12 weeks

This means Turkish students enjoy one of the longer summer breaks in Europe!

Other Important School Holidays in Turkey

Besides the summer holiday, Turkish schools also have several other breaks throughout the year:

• Mid-Term Breaks: There are usually two short breaks (one week each) during the fall and spring terms.
• Religious Holidays: Schools close for major religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Bayramı) and Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramı).
• National Holidays: Schools are closed for national holidays such as Republic Day (October 29) and National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (April 23).

Tips for Making the Most of Summer Break in Turkey

• Plan Early: Popular destinations get booked quickly. If you’re planning a trip or camp, reserve your spot early!
• Create a Schedule: While it’s great to relax, having a loose schedule helps keep kids engaged with activities like reading, hobbies, or sports.
• Explore Locally: Not every adventure has to be far away—discover local parks, museums, or historical sites near your home.
• Balance Learning & Fun: Encourage kids to try something new—a short course or creative project can be both educational and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Break in Turkey

How long is summer break in Turkey?

The summer holiday typically lasts about 11-12 weeks for primary and secondary schools—from mid-June to early/mid-September.

When does summer break start and finish?

The break usually starts around June 14th and ends around September 9th each year, but these dates can change slightly depending on the Ministry of National Education’s calendar.

Do universities have the same summer break?

No, university schedules can differ. Most universities have a similar summer holiday but may start or end a bit earlier or later than primary/secondary schools.

Are there other school holidays in Turkey?

Yes! Besides the long summer break, there are two mid-term breaks (one week each), as well as closures for major religious and national holidays.

Can tourists visit schools during summer break?

No, schools are closed during the summer holiday. However, this makes it a great time for families to travel around Turkey without worrying about missing classes!

Final Thoughts

If you’re living in Turkey or planning a visit during the summer months, knowing the school holiday dates can help you avoid crowds—or join in on the fun! With about three months off every year, Turkish students have plenty of time to rest, explore, learn new things, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for sunny beaches or cultural adventures, summer break is one of the best times to experience all that Turkey has to offer.

Please note: Always check with your local school or the Ministry of National Education for the most up-to-date information on holiday dates.