When you picture winter in Turkey, maybe you imagine snow and icy winds. Antalya, though, offers something else entirely. This city sits on the southern coast and enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it one of the warmest spots in Turkey during winter.
Daytime temperatures usually hover between 10°C and 20°C. Most days stay mild and sunny, but you’ll get some rainy stretches, too.
Winter in Antalya isn’t just about the weather—it changes the whole rhythm of the city. Tourists leave, beaches quiet down, and life slows to a gentler pace.
Shops stay open, cozy cafes welcome you in, and there’s still plenty to do—just without the summer crowds.
If you’re wondering what to pack, whether you can swim in the sea, or how much sunshine you’ll get, you’ll find answers here. I’ll cover temperatures, rainfall, daylight, and a few travel tips so you know what to expect if you’re planning a winter trip to Antalya.
Overview of Antalya’s Winter Climate
Antalya’s winters bring mild temperatures, frequent rain, and short spells of cooler weather. The coastal climate here looks very different from inland Turkey, where winters feel much harsher.
Mediterranean Climate Characteristics
Antalya has a Mediterranean climate. Winters stay mild and wet, while summers turn hot and dry.
In winter, you’ll see average highs between 15–17 °C (59–63 °F). Nights usually drop to about 5–7 °C (41–45 °F).
Rain falls often, especially in December and January. December gets around 270 mm of rain, usually spread over several days.
Snow almost never falls along the coast, though a rare flurry can happen in unusual years.
Humidity sits around 60–65%, so the air sometimes feels cooler than the numbers suggest.
Sunshine is less than in summer, with 4–6 hours per day in the middle of winter. Still, Antalya gets more bright days than most northern European cities.
Influence of the Turkish Riviera
Antalya stretches along the Turkish Riviera, with the Mediterranean Sea to the south and the Taurus Mountains to the north. This geography really shapes the winter weather.
The sea keeps the coast warmer than inland spots, so you don’t get extreme cold. Winter water temperatures average 16–18 °C. That’s too chilly for a swim, but it helps keep the air milder.
Sometimes, winds from the mountains bring in warmer, dry air, pushing up temperatures for a day or two. These föhn-like winds can make January feel almost springlike for a bit.
Heavy rain develops when moist sea air runs into the mountain slopes. That mix of sea and mountains means Antalya’s winter weather can swing quickly between sunny breaks and rain.
Comparison to Other Turkish Cities
Antalya’s winter really stands out when you compare it to other parts of Turkey.
In Istanbul, winter highs sit around 8–10 °C. Skies usually stay cloudy, and you might see snow.
Ankara sits inland and higher up, so January highs only reach 5 °C, and nights often drop below freezing.
Antalya’s coast keeps frost rare and snow almost unheard of. You’ll want a jacket for cool evenings, but you won’t face the deep cold found in central or eastern Turkey.
This makes Antalya a top pick for winter travel in Turkey. You can walk outside, visit historic sites, and take in seaside views even in January—something you can’t easily do elsewhere in the country.
Average Temperatures in Winter Months
Winter in Antalya feels cool but still mild compared to most places. Daytime highs stay comfortable for being outdoors, though nights get noticeably cooler, especially in January and February.
Rain falls more often, but freezing temperatures almost never happen.
Typical Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
During winter, Antalya’s days usually range between 15°C and 17°C (59°F–63°F). It feels pretty pleasant, even in the coldest stretch.
You’ll see plenty of sun, but the days are short.
At night, temperatures drop to about 6°C to 7°C (43°F–45°F). It feels cool, but rarely freezing. You can still enjoy evenings outside with a light jacket instead of full winter gear.
The difference between day and night is clear but not wild. Humidity can make cooler nights feel a little colder than the numbers show.
Month-by-Month Temperature Breakdown
December: Highs average 17°C (63°F), with lows near 7°C (45°F). This month gets the most rain.
January: The coldest month. Highs reach about 15°C (59°F), and lows dip to 6°C (43°F). Still, many days stay bright.
February: Temperatures inch up. Highs hit 16°C (61°F), and lows stick around 6°C (43°F). Rain keeps falling, but you’ll notice a shift toward drier weather.
So, Antalya’s winter stays mild with only small changes from month to month.
Record Highs and Lows
Sometimes Antalya gets weather extremes. In winter, record highs can jump above 22°C (72°F), especially during warm spells in December or February.
Those days feel almost like spring and are perfect for getting outside.
Record lows have dropped near 0°C (32°F) on especially cold nights, but freezing and snow are very rare in the city.
These swings just show how steady Antalya’s climate usually is. Most of the time, you’ll get mild winter weather, though the odd Mediterranean storm might shake things up for a day or two.
Rainfall and Humidity Patterns
Winter in Antalya means cooler air, more rain, and higher humidity. Rain falls more often than in summer, and the air feels damp, especially near the coast.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
Rain picks up from late autumn into winter. December usually stands out as the wettest month, with about 240 mm of rain.
January and February also get plenty, generally between 170–200 mm each month.
Compared to the dry summers, the contrast is pretty big. Most of Antalya’s annual 1175 mm of rain falls from November to March.
Rain usually comes as steady showers, not quick bursts. Snow almost never falls in the city, but the nearby mountains can get a dusting.
Frequency and Duration of Rainy Days
Rain doesn’t fall every day, but it happens often enough to affect your plans. December and January each average about 10–13 rainy days. February is a bit drier, with around 9–11 rainy days.
Rainy days usually mean a few hours of wet weather, not all-day downpours. You’ll often see sunshine between showers.
So, if you check the forecast, you can still plan outdoor activities.
Even with frequent rain, Antalya gets a fair amount of daylight. Winter brings 140–160 hours of sunshine per month, so it’s not gloomy for long stretches.
That mix of rain and sun is pretty classic for the Mediterranean.
Average Humidity During Winter
Humidity rises in Antalya during winter. It usually ranges from 65% to 75%, which is higher than in summer. The sea keeps the air moist.
You’ll feel the dampness, especially in the mornings and evenings. Fog can settle in on cooler nights, mostly in January.
Indoors, humidity isn’t as noticeable, but outside, you’ll sense that moist air.
Still, the cooler temperatures make the air feel lighter than in summer. That makes winter weather in Antalya more comfortable for walking and sightseeing, even if you catch a rainy day.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
Winter in Antalya brings shorter days and less direct sunlight than summer. Cloud cover shows up more, and daylight shifts from month to month.
Average Daily Sunshine in Winter
Antalya averages between 4 to 6 hours of sunshine per day in winter. January is usually the cloudiest, with about 5 hours of sun on average.
By February, sunshine increases a bit, reaching 6 to 6.5 hours daily. December sits in the middle, with roughly 5 to 5.5 hours.
So, you’ll find clear spells most days, even if mornings start gray. Compared to the long, bright summer days, winter skies feel less predictable, but there’s enough light for getting outdoors.
On average, Antalya enjoys about 54–63% sunny daylight hours in winter. That’s a lot less gloomy than many northern European cities.
If you want the brightest part of the day, aim for midday—usually your best shot at sun.
Daylight Duration by Month
Daylight hours change a lot during winter. In December, days are shortest, with about 9 hours and 40 minutes of daylight.
January brings a slight increase to 9 hours and 56 minutes. By February, you get almost 10 hours and 46 minutes.
This gradual boost means more time outside as winter goes on. The difference between December and February adds up to about one extra hour of daylight.
Here’s a quick look at average daylight by month:
| Month | Average Daylight |
|---|---|
| December | ~9h 40m |
| January | ~9h 56m |
| February | ~10h 46m |
Even on the shortest days, Antalya gets more daylight than many northern cities in winter. That can really make the season feel brighter and a bit more cheerful.
Sea Temperatures and Coastal Conditions
The Mediterranean shapes both the climate and the experience along the Turkish Riviera. Even in winter, the sea stays relatively mild, though it’s not always great for swimming.
Knowing sea temperatures and coastal weather helps you plan your trip.
Average Winter Sea Temperatures
In winter, the sea off Antalya cools down but stays warmer than most European coasts. December brings an average water temperature of about 19.9 °C.
January sees it drop to 18.3 °C, and by February it’s around 17.2 °C.
So, the sea isn’t freezing, but it’s cooler than in spring or autumn. Air temperatures—usually between 13–15 °C during the day—also affect how the water feels.
You’ll get about 14–16 clear days per month in winter, which makes for nice coastal walks and outdoor time. Rain falls more than in summer, so you might run into a brief shower now and then.
Swimming and Water Activities in Winter
Sea temperatures hover around 17–20 °C, which can feel pretty chilly if you’re thinking about a long swim without a wetsuit. If you love open-water swimming, you can still dive in, but honestly, most people just take a quick dip rather than hang out in the water for ages.
You can still try water sports like diving, snorkeling, or paddleboarding, but you’ll probably want a wetsuit for comfort. Locals and winter visitors often choose to enjoy the coast by taking boat trips, fishing, or just strolling along the beaches instead.
The coastline looks beautiful all year, and you’ll often find calm days even in winter. Sometimes storms roll in and kick up bigger waves, so it’s smart to check the local forecast before heading out for any water activities. That way, you can stay safe and really enjoy the Mediterranean vibe.
Travel Tips for Visiting Antalya in Winter
Antalya’s winter feels mild compared to most of Europe, but you’ll still get cooler days, some rain, and shorter daylight hours. If you plan your trip with the weather in mind, you’ll probably have a more comfortable and enjoyable time.
Best Time to Visit Antalya for Mild Weather
Antalya’s winter runs from December to February. January is the coldest month, with average highs around 15°C (59°F) and lows dropping to about 5°C (41°F). February warms up a bit, and by March, it already feels like spring is on its way.
If you’re after the mildest weather, late February and March work best. December and January bring more rain, and December tends to be the wettest. If you avoid the rainiest weeks, you’ll have more chances to get outside and explore.
You’ll usually get about 5–6 hours of sunshine per day in midwinter. While it’s not exactly swimming weather, the coast is still great for a daytime walk. Visiting during these months means you’ll see fewer crowds, find lower hotel prices, and enjoy a more laid-back vibe.
Packing and Preparation Advice
Pack for changing weather. A light waterproof jacket is a must, since rain showers pop up often in winter. Bring layers like sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a warm fleece for cooler evenings.
If you want to wander the old town or check out archaeological sites, wear comfortable shoes because the ground can get slippery and uneven after rain. A small umbrella might help, but honestly, a sturdy rain jacket usually works better when the coastal winds pick up.
Don’t forget sunglasses—surprisingly, the Mediterranean sun still packs a punch in winter. Heading up into the Taurus Mountains? Bring a heavier coat and gloves, since it gets noticeably colder with the altitude.
Winter Activities and Attractions
Winter feels like a great time to check out Antalya’s cultural and historical sites, especially since you don’t have to deal with the summer heat. You might find yourself wandering around Kaleiçi, the old town, with its winding streets, Ottoman houses, and the Roman harbor tucked away nearby.
You can visit ancient ruins like Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos more comfortably when it’s cooler outside. Walking on open ground just feels better in mild weather, doesn’t it?
If you’re into nature, maybe head over to the Düden Waterfalls or plan a quick day trip up into the Taurus Mountains. Ski resorts such as Saklıkent sit just outside the city, and honestly, they’re a pretty unexpected find for snow sports so close to the coast.
There’s plenty to do indoors too. You might unwind in a Turkish hammam, browse the Antalya Museum, or dig into local food at traditional restaurants. Winter menus usually bring out hearty stews and fresh seafood, which just hits the spot.