We all know Turkey (Türkiye)’s Antalya region is a great choice for a summer holiday, but did you know that it’s the ideal pick for a winter getaway too? Don’t believe us? Let us tell you why…

As the sun sets and the heat of summer comes to an end in a lot of Europe’s top holiday spots, the climate out on Turkey (Türkiye)’s Turquoise Coast is nice and toasty. Temperatures are still up in the high teens and beyond, so why not switch up your usual winter beach getaway and make a break for Antalya instead?

Plus, resorts are much quieter so you can expect fewer crowds and queues, and it’s well worth the money, so those well-earned holiday spends go a little further – winner!

Things to do in Antalya in winter

Unwind at a spa

If a bit of R&R is on the cards then you won’t want to miss out on a visit to one of Turkey (Türkiye)’s amazing spas, or hammams, as they’re known locally. Traditional Turkish hammams and baths combine Roman, Islamic and Ottoman influences to create a tranquil environment that’s ideal for recharging the batteries. Typical steam baths are adorned with mosaic tiles and marble and some are equipped with massage zones and saunas. You might even be offered a cup of Turkish coffee and some traditional Turkish delight to enjoy while you’re there.

Practise your swing

Love spending the day on pristine greens and manicured fairways? In Antalya alone, you’ve got nearly 20 golf courses right at your fingertips. Dotted between rich pine forests and boasting stunning views of the Mediterranean, they are the ideal spots to enjoy 18 holes in the sunshine.

Montgomerie Maxx Royal Golf Course in Belek is hailed as one of the best in the area, with its 104 hectares of mixed pine forests dotted with sandy ridges and eight lakes. It’s played host to many national and international tournaments and is great for beginners to pros. Lykia Links Golf Course is another you won’t want to miss if you fancy taking on a more challenging course. Undulating fairways make it tricky to navigate and in the dunes on holes 13 and 16, you’ll have some sea crosswinds to tackle.

Have a splashing time at a waterpark

Think waterparks are just for summer? Think again! If you like to mix things up with an action-packed day out, then make a beeline for The Land of Legends adventure park. It’s open all year round and has all sorts of activities for kids of all ages, not forgetting the grown-ups, of course! In fact, not only is it a waterpark, but it’s also a theme park and shopping mall rolled into one – ideal if you fancy a spot of retail therapy after the kids have whizzed down the slides!

A ginormous magical castle sits at the heart of the park, surrounded by rollercoasters, water slides, swimming pools, an aquarium, various bars and restaurants, and much more.

What’s on in Antalya in winter?

Antalya International Golden Orange Film Festival – October

This glitzy film festival celebrates the successes of Turkish cinema with many of the country’s biggest film hits taking home one of the prestigious awards in previous years. Each year, big-name international stars descend upon the region to host the awards and attend some of the glamorous events.

Republic Day – October 29

Republic Day, which is celebrated on 29 October each year, is one of the most important public holidays across the country. The festivities begin at 1pm on the 28^th and continue for 35 hours straight! Colourful processions take to the streets in towns and cities and parade with Turkish flags, lanterns and lively music from bands and singers. If you’re holidaying in Turkey (Türkiye) at this time, you might also get to see firework displays and live concerts.

Kaleiçi Old Town Festival – October
This relatively new festival aims to showcase the fascinating culture and values of the ancient city of Kaleiçi. Its narrow, cobbled streets come to life with live music and parades, and there’s a whole host of activities and workshops that you can take part in.

New Year’s Eve celebrations – 31 December

Why not ring in the new year from the sun-soaked shores of Turkey (Türkiye)? Or better still, spend the whole Christmas period in Antalya, Santa Claus’ original hometown! Yep, you heard us right. On New Year’s Eve, you can expect to see live music and dancers taking to the streets, before a spectacular firework display at midnight.

Runatolia Marathon – February/March

What better way to see the city’s top sights than on two feet as part of a marathon race event? And this Antalya marathon is regarded as one of the most beautiful marathon courses in the world! You’ll follow the picturesque coastal path until you reach Lara Beach, taking in some of the city’s popular historical sights along the way.

Please note, some events may change. Please check locally for accurate and up-to-date times, dates and locations.