Approaching the End of the Year: Autumn in Antalya

As we gradually prepare to bid farewell to 2019, the months of October and November mark the final phase of autumn. By December, winter tourism also kicks off. When it comes to tourism, Antalya immediately comes to mind as one of Turkey’s top holiday destinations. What can you do in Antalya during the autumn months? Of course, from May to August, it was peak season for sea tourism, and Antalya welcomed hundreds of thousands of domestic and international tourists in its city center and beautiful districts. However, Antalya is not only a city that thrives in all four seasons, each with its own beauty, but also a well-developed urban center. Let’s take a look at our guide to places to visit and things to do in Antalya during the autumn.

Take a Closer Look at the City

As mentioned at the beginning, Antalya is one of Turkey’s five largest cities in terms of population and area. So if you think Antalya is only about summer, you are mistaken. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, Antalya enjoys mild weather throughout the year, aside from occasional storms in the winter, making it ideal for those seeking an urban experience. Therefore, our list of things to do in autumn starts with exploring the city center itself. The end of the summer season means lower prices, and the reduced population allows you to enjoy the city’s calmness.

Whether arriving via Antalya Airport, the bus terminal, or your own vehicle on modern roads, you can easily reach the city center. Antalya’s central districts include Muratpaşa and Konyaaltı. In addition, Kepez and Aksu, which includes the famous Lara Beach, are also considered central districts. Muratpaşa covers old Antalya and Kaleiçi (the Old Town). You can take a pleasant tour from the Yivli Minaret to the streets of Kaleiçi, enjoying the city’s long history dating back to the Seljuk era. For a modern experience, attractions like Land of Legends and Antalya Aquarium are ideal spots to enjoy in the autumn climate.

Aksu and Konyaaltı, more tourist-oriented than Muratpaşa, offer long, romantic walking routes. And Antalya’s culinary spots are also must-visit locations in the city center.

Enjoy the Sea in a Different Way

Of course, the sea is best enjoyed in warm weather. People usually go to the beach to cool off from the summer heat. In Antalya, with its Mediterranean climate, even the sea is warm in summer. However, because the Mediterranean warms and cools slowly, the sea in Antalya during autumn has its own unique charm in mild weather. Locals, especially the Yörüks, traditionally move to the highlands during summer. Therefore, if you visit Antalya in October or November, you can enjoy the sea in a quieter, more relaxed way.

Where can you swim in Antalya? In the city center, Konyaaltı and Lara beaches stand out. Konyaaltı is on the western side of the city, and Lara is on the eastern side. For a stay near the magnificent Lara Beach, the Delphin Hotels are a perfect option. Beyond the city center, there are plenty of places to enjoy the sea. To the west, you’ll find natural wonders like Kemer, Olympos, Adrasan, and Phaselis. Further west, along the Lycian Way up to Kaş, you’ll encounter Patara and Kaputaş beaches. To the east, Alanya has developed almost into a city in itself. Those visiting Alanya and its surroundings via Gazipaşa Airport often say that the autumn sea is even more enjoyable than in summer. In Alanya, Delphin Hotels are again among the top accommodation options. For those seeking cooler seas and mild Mediterranean climate, autumn in Antalya offers must-visit routes.

Lose Yourself in Nature

Antalya is not only about the sea and tourism; it is also famous for its unique natural beauty. With its four-season climate and abundant natural wonders, Antalya is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. In autumn, you can explore the highlands, rivers, forests, and even a snow-covered ski resort. Few cities in the world combine so much natural beauty in such close proximity. Travelers will find autumn in Antalya perfect for immersing themselves in nature.

For example, the highlands in Antalya’s Korkuteli district offer spectacular scenery, while Manavgat features its canyon, Köprüçay River, and Manavgat Waterfall. Across the districts, you can enjoy trekking, waterfalls, and even skiing at Saklıkent, all under the mild autumn climate.

Travel Through History in the Cool Weather

Antalya’s history stretches far beyond the Seljuks, including dozens of ancient cities and early civilizations. If your summer vacation didn’t allow enough cultural exploration due to the heat, autumn is the perfect time. From the Lycian Way to Perge, Aspendos, Olympos, Alanya Castle, and Side, dozens of historical and cultural routes await.

Starting from Kaş in the far west, you can visit Patara, Xanthos, Perge, and Myra before heading toward Antalya’s city center and stopping at Olympos and Phaselis. In the center, you can explore landmarks like the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), Yivli Minaret, old Antalya houses, and the Antalya Museum. To the east, don’t miss the ancient city of Side. Antalya, being one of the country’s most developed tourism hubs, provides plenty of guides and documentation at every point you visit.

In addition to sightseeing and culinary experiences, autumn also offers festivals and events. As singer Alpay once said, “Come in September.” We might extend this advice for Antalya: “Come in autumn.” Antalya welcomes you every season, with its history, modern amenities, nature, and of course, the Mediterranean.

Finally, let’s enjoy Haluk Levent’s song “Autumn in Antalya” to celebrate the season.