Planning a trip to Antalya means juggling sunshine, comfort, and the season that fits your plans. This coastal city on Turkey’s Mediterranean gives you hot summers, mild winters, and plenty of clear skies.
The best time to visit Antalya is spring (April to June) and fall (September to early November). The weather feels pleasantly warm, the sea is inviting, and the crowds thin out.
During these months, you can relax on the beaches without the worst summer heat. Exploring ancient ruins is easier because you don’t have to rush for shade.
You still get lots of daylight for sightseeing. The climate stays stable, rain hardly interrupts your plans, and the city buzzes with outdoor festivals.
Knowing when to go shapes your trip beyond just the weather. If you want to swim, hike, or catch Antalya’s cultural events, each season has its own vibe.
When you get a sense of the city’s climate patterns and seasonal changes, you can really make the most of your time on the Turkish Riviera.
Overview of Antalya’s Climate
Antalya sits on Turkey’s southern coast along the Turkish Riviera, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Taurus Mountains. Hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters shape the city’s climate, affecting outdoor activities and the overall travel experience.
Mediterranean Weather Patterns
You’ll notice a classic Mediterranean climate in Antalya, with long, dry summers and short, rainy winters. The Taurus Mountains to the north block cooler inland air, so the coast stays warmer than much of Turkey.
Winter months bring rainstorms, but snow in the city almost never happens. Summers feel dominated by dry, stable air, and the sun seems to shine endlessly.
The sea plays its part too. Coastal breezes take the edge off the summer heat, while the water helps keep winter temperatures higher than inland.
Temperature and Rainfall Trends
Average temperatures shift from about 10 °C (50 °F) in January up to nearly 30 °C (86 °F) in August. July and August get the hottest, with highs often above 34 °C (93 °F).
Winters stay mild, but sometimes a cold snap brings temperatures close to freezing.
Rain falls mostly between November and March. Storms from the Mediterranean roll in and bring heavy showers.
December usually gets the most rain—over 250 mm. July and August? Almost no rain at all, so they’re the driest months.
| Month | Avg Temp °C | Rainfall mm |
|---|---|---|
| January | 10 | 210 |
| April | 16 | 65 |
| July | 29 | 4 |
| October | 21 | 75 |
These swings in rainfall and temperature create clear travel seasons. Spring and autumn offer the most balanced conditions.
Sunshine and Humidity Levels
You’ll get around 2,800–2,900 hours of sunshine per year—that’s almost 8 hours a day on average.
Summer months can hit 11 hours of daily sun, while winter days drop closer to 5 hours.
Humidity changes with the seasons. In winter, it rises above 65% because of the rain. Summer drops it to about 55%, but the heat can still feel pretty intense, especially in the afternoons.
Sea temperatures follow the same rhythm. The water is coolest in February at about 16–17 °C, but by August it’s a warm 28 °C.
Late spring through early autumn feels best for swimming.
Seasonal Breakdown: When to Visit Antalya
Antalya’s Mediterranean climate brings hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The best months usually fall in spring and autumn when temperatures stay comfortable for sightseeing and swimming.
Summer works well for beach lovers. Winter suits those who want quieter travel and cooler air.
Spring: March to May
Spring brings mild temperatures and less rain, making it one of the best times to visit Antalya.
By April, daytime highs reach the low 20s °C (around 69°F). May gets even warmer, about 24°C (75°F).
Nights in March can still feel cool, so pack a light jacket just in case.
You might wander through the historic center of Kaleiçi, visit waterfalls like Düden, or head into the Taurus Mountains for hiking—no need to worry about extreme heat.
Wildflowers pop up in the countryside, adding a splash of color to your outdoor adventures.
Rain drops off sharply after March. By late spring, you’ll see mostly sunny days.
The sea gets warm enough for swimming in May, though it might feel brisk if you jump in earlier. Crowds are moderate, and prices tend to stay lower than in summer.
Summer: June to August
Summer is peak season in Antalya, especially if you’re all about the beach.
Highs often climb above 30°C (86°F), with July and August averaging around 32–33°C (90–91°F). Rain barely shows up, with July getting less than 1 mm on average.
The Mediterranean Sea is at its warmest, perfect for swimming and water sports. Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach fill up fast, so book hotels and rentals early.
The heat gets overwhelming in the middle of the day, especially inland or at open sites like Perge. Plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
If you’re not used to hot climates, staying hydrated and finding shade becomes pretty important.
Autumn: September to November
Autumn brings warm weather that cools off gradually.
September stands out as one of the best months to visit Antalya. Average highs still hover around 29°C (85°F) early on, dropping to about 21°C (70°F) by November.
September and October stay dry, but rain picks up in late autumn. The sea remains warm enough for swimming through October, so you can enjoy the beaches without the summer crowds.
This season is also great for cultural events. The Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival happens in September.
Cooler evenings make exploring ancient ruins a lot more comfortable. By November, cooler air and more rain limit water activities, but hiking in the Taurus Mountains feels just right.
Winter: December to February
Winter in Antalya feels mild compared to most of Europe.
Average highs range from 15–16°C (59–61°F) in January, with lows around 8–10°C (47–50°F). December gets the most rain, so bring waterproof clothing if you visit.
Swimming doesn’t really work because the sea is too cold, but you can still enjoy city walks, museums, and day trips.
The historic harbor district gets quieter, giving you a more laid-back experience.
If you want snow, check out Saklıkent Ski Resort in the Taurus Mountains. Skiing is possible from January through March.
Winter is the least crowded season. You’ll find lower hotel rates and fewer tourists at major attractions.
Weather by Month in Antalya
Antalya has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. You can expect long stretches of sunshine for most of the year, but comfort levels shift with the seasons.
Temperature and Rainfall by Month
Winter months like January and February stay mild, with average highs around 15–16°C (59–61°F) and lows near 8–10°C (47–50°F). Rain peaks during this time, often topping 100 mm per month.
By April and May, temperatures rise to 21–24°C (69–75°F) and rain drops off. It’s a good time to stroll through Kaleiçi or check out waterfalls.
June through August brings the hottest weather. Highs hit 29–33°C (84–91°F), and rain is pretty much nonexistent.
Sightseeing during midday can feel rough, but evenings are much nicer.
In September and October, highs drop to 25–29°C (77–85°F), and light rain starts to return. By November, you’ll see temperatures closer to 21°C (70°F) and more frequent showers.
| Month | Avg High °C (°F) | Avg Low °C (°F) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 15 (59) | 8 (47) | 191 |
| Apr | 21 (69) | 15 (59) | 47 |
| Jul | 32 (90) | 26 (79) | 1 |
| Oct | 25 (78) | 18 (65) | 81 |
Sea Temperatures and Beach Conditions
Sea temperatures play a big role if you’re heading to Lara Beach or Konyaaltı Beach.
From June to September, the Mediterranean stays warm, between 25–28°C (77–82°F). This is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or water sports.
Calm, clear water makes these months the peak beach season.
In May and October, the sea cools down to 22–24°C (72–75°F) but still feels good for most swimmers.
During winter months, sea temperatures drop to 16–18°C (61–64°F). Some locals still swim, but most visitors find it too chilly for a long dip.
Beaches stay scenic, but you’ll probably spend more time walking or enjoying seaside cafés.
Daylight Hours and Seasonal Changes
Daylight hours shift enough to affect your plans.
In June and July, Antalya enjoys about 14.5 hours of daylight. You can spend long days at the beach, then head to historic sites in the evening.
By September, daylight shortens to 12.5 hours. There’s still plenty of time outdoors, but evenings come sooner.
During winter months, daylight drops to 9–10 hours. Shorter days mean less beach time, but the cooler weather makes city walks and cultural visits more comfortable.
Spring months like April and May bring 13–14 hours of daylight, so you get mild weather and lots of time outside. It’s a sweet spot for sightseeing and beach visits before summer crowds arrive.
Best Times for Activities and Attractions
Antalya’s climate really shapes how you enjoy its beaches, history, and natural scenery.
Warm, dry months work best for swimming and sunbathing. Cooler seasons make hiking and sightseeing way more comfortable.
Rainier months slow down some outdoor fun but open up chances for cultural visits.
Beach Holidays and Water Sports
If you’re all about the sea, June through September gives you the warmest water and barely any rain.
During this time, Konyaaltı Beach and Lara Beach are perfect for swimming, jet skiing, and parasailing. The sea stays comfortable, and the skies hardly ever cloud over.
Crowds peak in July and August, so expect higher prices and less space on the sand.
If you want fewer people but still crave warm water, late May or September is your best bet.
These months offer long daylight hours and calm conditions, making them great for boat tours or diving.
Snorkeling and scuba diving visibility is best in summer when rain is rare. But midday heat can be brutal, so plan water activities for morning or late afternoon.
Exploring Ancient Ruins and Historical Sites
Antalya’s surrounded by ruins like Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos. Spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) are the best times to visit.
Daytime highs average between 21–29°C (70–85°F), so you can wander without overheating.
In summer, stone ruins get seriously hot, especially around midday. If you have to go then, aim for early morning or closer to sunset.
Aspendos, with its Roman theater, often hosts evening performances that feel much cooler and more enjoyable.
Winter works too if you don’t mind cooler air and some rain. You’ll find fewer tourists, which means quieter moments at places like Perge’s colonnaded streets or the hilltop ruins of Termessos.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
If you’re into hiking, you’ll probably love the Lycian Way and the trails around the Düden Waterfalls in spring or autumn. Temperatures stay mild, and rainfall usually doesn’t mess up the paths.
Clearer skies during these seasons let you really soak in those coastal views.
Summer is a whole different story. The heat can make long hikes pretty risky, especially on the exposed routes of the Lycian Way.
If you decide to go anyway, bring plenty of water and hit the trail early, before the sun gets too intense.
In winter, the air cools down, which feels nice for short walks. Rain can turn trails slippery though.
Termessos sits higher up, and in April or October, the weather feels just right. The forested paths are much easier to wander then.
Seasonal Events and Festivals in Antalya
Antalya’s cultural calendar adds a whole new layer to your trip, way beyond beaches and ruins. Music, film, and food really shape the city’s vibe, blending local traditions with international flair.
Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival
Each summer, the ancient Aspendos Theater hosts this festival. It’s a Roman amphitheater, and wow, the acoustics there are something else.
Honestly, the venue is almost as impressive as the shows themselves, with thousands of seats and that dramatic stone backdrop.
International companies put on classic operas and ballets here. You’ll often hear works by Verdi, Puccini, or Tchaikovsky, all in a setting that just makes everything more epic.
Tickets come in a range of prices, but they disappear fast since the performances are limited. If you’re into opera or ballet, it’s hard to imagine a cooler place to see it.
Golden Orange Film Festival
The Golden Orange Film Festival stands out as one of Turkey’s oldest and most respected cinema events. Organizers hold it every autumn in Antalya, and it draws all kinds of filmmakers, critics, and movie fans.
Turkish cinema takes center stage, but you’ll spot international films in the lineup too.
Screenings cover feature films, documentaries, and shorts. Sometimes directors and actors stick around for Q&As.
If you love movies, you can catch new releases before anyone else. Many events welcome the public, and venues are scattered around the city, so it’s pretty easy to join in.
Local Food and Meze Festivals
Antalya also puts on smaller festivals that highlight local food culture, with meze at the heart of it all. Meze means a spread of small dishes, usually with fresh bread, seafood, and veggies.
These festivals usually pop up in late summer and autumn, right when local harvests hit their peak.
You’ll get to sample regional olive oils, cheeses, and wines, all alongside classic meze plates.
Events might feature cooking demos, tastings, and live music. Attending one lets you dig into local flavors and traditions in a laid-back, social setting.
Travel Tips for Visiting Antalya in Different Seasons
The season you pick for your Antalya trip really shapes your whole experience. Crowds, what you pack, and which places you can reach all depend on when you go.
Weather matters a lot, whether you’re roasting on the beaches in summer or enjoying mild winters that are better for exploring.
Crowds and Accommodation
Tourist numbers swing wildly throughout the year. July and August are packed, especially at Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach.
You’ll want to book hotels and rental cars way ahead of time. Prices go up, and popular spots like Kaleiçi’s boutique hotels can fill up fast.
On the other hand, spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) bring fewer crowds and still have warm weather.
It’s much easier to find a decent hotel or even a luxury stay at a fair price. Winter is super quiet, so discounts are common, but some small resorts might close up for the season.
If you want a sweet spot between comfort and space, late spring and early fall work well. Streets are lively, restaurants stay open, and you skip the summer chaos.
Packing and Safety Considerations
What you pack really depends on the time of year. In summer, expect highs around 32–33°C, so bring light clothes, sunscreen, and a hat.
Staying hydrated is a must, especially if you’re wandering Kaleiçi’s winding streets or exploring ancient sites like Perge.
For autumn and spring, pack layers. Evenings get cool, and a light jacket is handy if you want to eat outside.
You’ll need comfy shoes no matter when you visit, since those old stone paths can be rough on your feet.
Winter brings mild but rainy days. Grab an umbrella and waterproof shoes to make sightseeing less of a hassle, especially if you’re heading to the Antalya Museum or strolling the marina.
Safety-wise, it’s pretty straightforward: skip the midday heat in summer, wear sun protection, and always carry water when you’re out and about.
Nearby Destinations to Explore
Antalya sits in a spot that makes it easy to check out nearby towns and attractions, no matter the season. In summer, a lot of people head to Alanya for its long beaches and the impressive castle views.
Locals and visitors alike love taking boat trips along the coast when the sea stays calm.
When the weather cools down, you might lean toward more cultural outings. The Antalya Museum gives you a close look at the region’s history, and honestly, it’s a solid pick if rain ruins your beach plans.
Kaleiçi, with its old Ottoman houses and the Roman harbor, feels especially nice to wander around when the temperature isn’t too high.
If you’re itching for a quick escape from the city, spring and autumn work best for checking out waterfalls like Düden or hiking in the Taurus Mountains.
You’ll probably find these activities less appealing in the summer heat, but in cooler weather, they’re pretty rewarding.