The Mediterranean might bring your mind to summery retreats, but it’s simply a misconception to think the warmer months are the only time to visit this pristine region of the world. There are plenty of reasons to visit any destination in the off-season. While some parts of the Mediterranean are simply too sleepy to visit in the cooler months, there’s one charming gem of a city that makes for a great escape year-round.
Türkiye is never a bad idea, whether for visiting a region that feels like a storybook or the bustling streets of Istanbul. Antalya, Türkiye, is best known as a beach and resort town along the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Still, despite being a little cooler in the winter months, it shouldn’t be written off when considering off-the-beaten-path travel plans. This coastal city is far more than just sunbathing and kicking it back on the beach; it has plenty of history, ancient ruins, heavenly eats, and friendly locals, all while staying on a budget.
Much more than just beaches
April to October is the high season for Antalya, much thanks to being a beach escape for Turkish locals and Europeans. The most popular beach is Konyaalti Beach, and while you certainly can still visit in the off-season, there are plenty of other activities to partake in Antalya when it’s a little bit colder outside. For context, January is the coolest month in this beachside town, where the average temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Despite what time of year it is, one of the best things to do in Antalya is to visit Hadrian’s Gate. Its signature mark is its three double arches made of white marble. Antalya Archaeological Museum is another excellent option for those colder days. The museum is filled with statues and sarcophagi and a garden with peacocks. Around 20 miles northwest of Antalya is Termessos, an ancient city known for its historical ruins. Termessos makes for a great day trip from Antalya.
Perks of visiting in low season
There are plenty of reasons why visiting destinations during the off-season makes more sense for travelers. But why is it particularly perfect for Antalya specifically? Unlike most beach towns in the Mediterranean, many resorts in Antalya are open year-round. One of the best perks to traveling outside of high season is that your vacation will cost a fraction of what it would otherwise. For example, in February 2024, 5-star resorts such as Ramada Plaza, Crowne Plaza Antalya, The Marmara Antalya, and DoubleTree by Hilton Antalya City Centre can be booked for less than $100/night.
Another obvious advantage of traveling during the low season is fewer crowds. Antalya is one of the most popular summer vacation spots in the Mediterranean, welcoming at least 15.4 million visitors in 2023. While those numbers prove it is a sought-after destination year-round, most travel during the warmer months to take advantage of the water activities and lounge on the beach. So, safe to say, if you want to visit a true-and-tried hotspot, your best bet might be to put the bikini and swim trunks away and visit in off or shoulder season.
