Antalya, Turkey: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
Traveling to Antalya, on Turkey's Mediterranean coast? Known for its beaches, history and culture, Antalya has a walled old city with Ottoman-era architecture as well as resorts, nightclubs and a marina.
If you're planning to go to Antalya, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Antalya
- Important essentials for Antalya
- Activities for Antalya
- Antalya in January: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in February: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in March: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in April: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in May: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in June: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in July: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in August: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in September: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in October: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in November: weather and what to pack
- Antalya in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Antalya, Turkey
The best time to go to Antalya is September. During this month you can often catch the Golden Orange Film Festival, as well as the Antalya Festival, which celebrates the city's culture.
You can also avoid the huge summer crowds, and enjoy the less hot weather. See below for details.
Important essentials for Antalya, Turkey
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Antalya, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
IMPORTANT COVID-19 ESSENTIALS
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection available.
-
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination/negative test
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards may wear away. An unreadable vaccine card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
Other health necessities
Emergency water purifier
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring an emergency water purifier like this one.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Emergency rapid COVID-19 test
U.S. residents can get them free here. Otherwise, you can buy them here.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Antalya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
For families with young children
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. This one should be sufficient for most locations, but you should check with your hotel.
Photography accessories
- cell phone photography gimbal
- camera drone for outdoor shots
- extra batteries
- extra memory cards
Airplane or car necessities
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Activities for Antalya, Turkey
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Antalya.
If you want to visit one of the beautiful beaches, like Lara Beach, or the Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park, or the hot springs at Pamukkale take these:
Waterproof phone bag
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
-
Swimsuits
Ultralight day pack
to carry essentials.
We also recommend these top tours in and around Antalya.
Waterfalls tour
For an easy, scenic adventure, take a tour of the beautiful nearby waterfalls. This tour gets you away from the crowds and into nature.
Pamukkale
Do not miss Pamukkale, or the Cotton Castle, a unique natural wonder where you can find carbonate mineral deposits left behind by thermal water.
Private Boat Tour of the Kas Islands
If you're looking to splurge for something really special -- such as a romantic date -- take a private boat tour of the Kas Islands.
Jeep or ATV adventures
For a bit of adventure, consider a Jeep or ATV safari through the mountains.
What to wear/what to pack for Antalya, Turkey by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January here is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
What to do in Antalya in January:
Although Antalya is a year-round destination, the beaches are not. But there is still a lot of fun to be had. Check out the Antalya Museum, with its fascinating exhibits on the history and art of the area.
Grab your jacket and take the short trip to the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. Perge dates back to 1500 BC, and Aspendos has a beautiful theater worth seeing. The hours are shorter this time of year, so consider booking a tour to maximize time.
The nightlife is less active in the winter, but you can always find a nice restaurant or food stall after watching the sunset from the harbor.
February
February in Antalya is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
-
Dresses
Light and heavy skirts
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
What to do in Antalya in February:
You will spend a lot of time indoors in Antalya in February. The Antalya Museum is a great way to spend a day, and it's easily accessible by tram. If you have kids, check out the Antalya Aquarium, which has the largest aquarium tunnel in the world.
If you're willing to brave the weather, do a side trip to the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. Both are worth visiting, and can be done together on a tour to save time.
In the evening, you can find some nice restaurants in Kaleici.
March
If you vacation in Antalya during March, you might notice that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
Extra socks
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
What to do in Antalya in March:
In March, the weather is good enough to do most non-beach activities. Stroll around Kaleici during the day, or take a bike tour to get a nice orientation to the city.
On cooler days, enjoy the Antalya Museum or go shopping at the Terracity Mall.
Don't miss the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. You can take public transportation (although it requires a few transfers), or take a tour.
If you have more time, consider some interesting day excursions. Pamukkale, known as the "Cotton Castle", is an amazing site. But it is a bit too cool in March to fully enjoy the springs. Another great day trip is the ruined city of Myra, with tombs cut into the rock that make for great Instagramming.
April
April in Antalya is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
What to do in Antalya in April:
In April, Antalya starts to wake up from winter. Opening hours get longer and tourists start to show up. A bike tour is a great way to see the main tourist attractions, as well as the hidden gems of the city.
Perge and Aspendos are ancient ruins that, although mostly destroyed, are worth a day trip. To maximize sightseeing time, take a tour.
If you have kids, the Land of Legends theme park is a must-visit. Buy tickets in advance to avoid the lines. Another great activity for families is the Antalya Aquarium, which boasts the largest aquarium tunnel on earth.
April is an great time to visit Pamukkale, the otherworldly white rockscape. Another great day trip is the ruined city of Myra.
May
If you visit Antalya during May, you might see that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
What to do in Antalya in May:
Start your May trip to Antalya by wandering through the city and harbor -- there are many wonderful hidden gems to get lost in. Or if you prefer, do a city tour, which also includes a ride on the cable car and the top waterfalls.
Walk along the beaches, and check out the areas near your resort. Along Lara Beach, for instance, you can see giant sand sculptures, which are part of the Sandland competition. If you're looking to do some shopping, keep your eyes peeled for the bazaars that pop up throughout the region.
Set aside a day for Perge and Aspendos. You can take public transportation (it requires a few transfers), or take a tour.
For the adventurous types, consider an ATV or Jeep safari. You can drive along the beach and into the villages with a knowledgeable guide. And check out Pamukkale; the hot springs are excellent this time of year, as is the landscape, with blooming flowers.
June
If you go to Antalya in June, you will notice that it is constantly hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C). This is the start of the high season, so expect that prices and crowds are increasing.
What to wear/what to pack:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
If you're going to the beach
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for storms.
-
Waterproof luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. Even the finest suitcases can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
What to do in Antalya in June:
Tourism really picks up in June, but you can still find a wonderful private spot in Kaleci. When the day gets hot, find a shady cafe, and sample some of the local specialties, such as shish kefta or piyaz.
You'll likely be spending most of your time on the beach at the resorts, but save a bit of time for some cultural activities. Consider going to the Antalya Museum or taking a bike tour, where you will learn about the history of the region.
Perge and Aspendos are fascinating Roman ruins that are worthy of a day excursion. You can take public transportation or take a tour.
There are also some great beach activities for the adventurous types. If you want to explore nature while doing some uber cool stuff, you can do a guided day excursion to the mountains, which includes rafting, canyon climbing, and a zipline. No experience necessary. Or, if you've always wanted to try your hand at diving, consider an intro diving course in the Mediterranean sea.
Finally, if you're into music or dance, you may be able to catch a bit of the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet festival.
July
If you vacation in Antalya during July, you may see that it is extremely hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. Expect huge crowds on the beaches and skyrocketing prices. However, you may be able to catch the excellent Opera and Ballet festival.
What to wear/what to pack:
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
If you're going to the beach
What to do in Antalya in July:
In July, you'll want to start out early so you can get a nice spot on the beach. Enjoy the morning lounging before it gets too hot and crowded.
At midday, sample one of the many fine restaurants and cafes in Kaleici. With some shade and a nice cold drink, you'll feel re-energized for some siteseeing. In the afternoon, check out the Antalya Museum, or enjoy some pampering at a traditional turkish bath.
In the early evening, check out the areas near your resort. Along Lara Beach, for instance, you can see giant sand sculptures, which are part of the Sandland competition. Depending on the date, you may also be able to catch a bit of the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet festival.
Make sure to set aside some time for the excellent local cultural experiences. Perge and Aspendos are ruins that shouldn't be missed. You can take a tour or find public transportation.
If you get bored lounging on the beach, there are some great adventure options: you can do a mountain tour, including rafting, canyon climbing, and a zipline. Or, if you've always wanted to try diving, consider an intro diving experience. Another option is: an ATV or Jeep safari.
And if you still have time, check out Pamukkale, the "Cotton Castle", with it's awesome moonscape.
August
August here is extremely hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. The beaches are extremely crowded at this time of year.
What to wear/what to pack:
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Skirts
If you're going to the beach
What to do in Antalya in August:
You'll want to start out early and stake out a spot on the beach. Enjoy the morning relaxing. Then, around midday, try the local specialty, piyaz, at a restaurant in the old quarter. In the afternoon, you can return to the beach for a dip in the water.
For a break from the beach, plan a day trip to the fascinating ruins at Perge and Aspendos. You can take a tour or find public transportation. Or enjoy some pampering at a traditional turkish bath.
If you're looking for adventure: you can do a mountain tour, including rafting, canyon climbing, and a zipline. Or, if you've always wanted to try diving, consider an intro diving experience.
We definitely recommend also budgeting a day for a trip to Pamukkale, the "Cotton Castle", with it's awesome moonscape.
Finally, if you like music and dance, you may be able to catch a part of the International Folk Music and Dance Festival, which takes place at the end of the month.
September
If you are traveling to Antalya in September, you will notice that it can be sweltering and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C). This is a perfect time to hit the beach, because the tourists begin to leave and temperatures become more bearable. There are some great festivals during this time as well, such as the Golden Orange Film Festival and the Antalya festival.
What to wear/what to pack:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
If you're going to the beach
What to do in Antalya in September:
In September, the tourists start to disappear and you'll find empty spots on the beach to relax.
But don't spend all of your time on the beach. Do a day trip to the ruins at Perge and Aspendos, and if you can, budget another day for a trip to Pamukkale.
For something more active, try a mountain tour, which includes rafting, canyon climbing, and a zipline, or an intro diving experience.
For a break from the heat, you may be able to catch a bit of the Golden Orange Film Festival, or if not, the Antalya Museum, is a good place to spend a few hours.
October
If you go to Antalya in October, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
What to do in Antalya in October:
October brings a few interesting festivals to the area. If you like film, you may be able to catch some of the Golden Orange Film Festival. There is also a Mediterranean Music Festival.
Pamukkale, the "Cotton Castle", is at its best this time of year, when you can really enjoy the hot springs. This is also a great time of year to see Perge and Aspendos, fascinating Roman ruins that are worthy of a day tour.
Spend some time walking along the beaches near your resort. Along Lara Beach, for instance, you can see giant sand sculptures, which are part of the Sandland competition. And if you're looking to do some shopping, keep your eyes peeled for the bazaars that pop up throughout the region.
If you want to explore nature while doing some uber cool stuff, you can do a guided day excursion to the mountains, which includes rafting, canyon climbing, and a zipline. Or consider an ATV or Jeep safari. You can drive along the beach and into the villages with a knowledgeable guide.
Finally, budget some time for strolling the city (especially the old quarter) -- there are many great hidden gems. A city tour, which also includes a ride on the cable car and the top waterfalls, can bring the history to life.
November
November here is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Light jacket or fleece
-
Dresses
Pants or jeans
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Standard footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
What to do in Antalya in November:
In November, you will not be spending much time on the beach.
Instead, check out some of the excellent cultural excursions from Antalya. Pamukkale, the "Cotton Castle", is nice at time of year, although it may be a bit cool to fully enjoy the hot springs. This is also a good time of year to see Perge and Aspendos, fascinating ruins that are worthy of a day tour. Note that the opening hours tend to be short in winter, so a tour is recommended.
You'll have a lot of time to stroll the city, or if you prefer, take a bike tour, to learn about the history and culture. On a raily day, spend a few hours at the Antalya Museum or try a traditional turkish bath..
December
Traveling to Antalya in December, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
-
Dresses
Pants or jeans
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Standard footwear
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
What to do in Antalya in December:
In December, spend your time enjoying the city, especially Kaleici.
For indoor fun, visit the Antalya Museum, with its fascinating exhibits on the history and art of the area. If you have kids, check out the Antalya Aquarium, which has the largest aquarium tunnel in the world.
Or grab your jacket and take the short trip to the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. Perge dates back to 1500 BC, and Aspendos has a beautiful theater worth seeing. The hours are shorter this time of year, so consider booking a tour.
And don't forget to take a little time to pamper yourself at a traditional turkish bath..
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