People trying to decide on a time of year to visit Istanbul will find that there is plenty to do in the city in both the summer and winter seasons, according to the Turkish Culture and Tourism Office.

Joanna Marsh, the organisation’s PR coordinator, noted that the country boasts destinations ‘for all seasons’.

There are seafront resorts on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts that offer pleasant conditions from spring to late autumn, as well as endlessly active and exciting cities like Istanbul.

‘Istanbul has a different vibe altogether in the winter months, with snow-dusted streets, cosy cafe culture to enjoy and the air thick with the smell of toasted chestnuts,’ said Ms Marsh.

‘In summer, open-air nightclubs and rooftop bars are where it’s at.’

The spokeswoman said that the Sultanahmet area of Istanbul offers a choice of hotels and historic attractions, while districts such as Beyoglu, Nisantasi and Bebek could offer a more authentic experience of the city.