Best Time to Visit Alanya: Weather, Sea and Crowds
Which month is best for visiting Alanya? Weather by month, sea temperature, crowds, what to wear and which tours suit each season, all in one article.
The best month to visit Alanya, if you want both the sea and sightseeing, is May, June, September and October. In these months the sea is warm enough for swimming, the weather is hot but not oppressive, and the beaches are not as crowded as in August. If you only want to swim and relax, June to September also works. If you want to explore the castle and canyons, or enjoy sunshine in winter, April and November are more comfortable choices.
The temperatures below are approximate and vary by a few degrees from year to year.
What is the weather like in Alanya month by month?
Alanya has a typical Mediterranean climate: summers are long, hot and dry; winters are mild and rainy. Most rain falls between December and February. In July and August daytime temperatures often reach 33-35 degrees, and nights hardly cool down.
The sea warms up late and cools down late. In May the sea is around 21-22 degrees, while in August it reaches 27-28 degrees. In October it is still about 25 degrees and can be swum in until November.
May and June: Is it the right time to start swimming?
In May the daytime temperature is around 25-26 degrees. The sea is cool but swimmable. If you are not good with heat, have no children, or are just starting out, it is the most comfortable month. In June the sea reaches around 24 degrees and boats begin running at full season.
In these months, light cotton clothing, a hat and sunscreen are enough. It is a good idea to bring a cardigan for the evenings. If you arrive before the schools close, the seafront and harbour will be quieter.
July and August are the peak of the holiday season, crowded and hot. Long walks outdoors become difficult around midday. During these months it helps to split the day into morning and evening; around noon it is more sensible to head to the sea or into the shade. A boat trip is a sensible choice in this period: on the Alanya: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Soft Drinks catamaran trip you sail the Mediterranean, visit caves and coves, and lunch and soft drinks are included.
What is the weather like in Alanya in October?
October is one of Alanya's most balanced months. Daytime temperatures reach 27-28 degrees and nights drop to around 18-20 degrees. The sea is still about 25 degrees. Rainy days may appear towards the end of the month, but most days are sunny.
By this time the summer crowds have thinned out and the intense heat of Alanya has passed. Walking, visiting the castle and spending time outdoors are much more pleasant. Bring a T-shirt, a light jacket and comfortable shoes.
Late October and November are a good time for a castle visit. On the Alanya Castle, Damlatas Cave and City Tour by Cable Car tour you visit Alanya Castle, the Red Tower, the shipyard and Damlatas Cave in about 4 hours, including the cable car ride up. Opening times for the castle and museums may change with the season, so it is worth checking before you go.
November to March: Is it worth visiting Alanya in winter?
Yes, but you need to set your expectations correctly. In November the daytime temperature is around 22 degrees, and the sea has not cooled enough to stop swimming altogether. In December, January and February daytime temperatures are 15-17 degrees, rainy days increase and the sea drops to around 17-18 degrees. Some boat tours and seafront businesses may not operate in these months.
In winter Alanya is calm; cafés, the bazaar and the harbour are open, but life on the seafront slows down. On a rainy day, the Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experience w/ Transfer hammam experience is a good plan. It lasts about 2 hours and transfers are included. Days without rain are suitable for walking and visiting the castle.
April: What to do during the seasonal transition?
In April the daytime temperature is around 21-23 degrees, and some days may be cloudy or rainy. The sea is still cold, so swimming is not for everyone. Spring flowers are out, the mountains are green, and it is an ideal time for nature excursions.
In this period, walking in the Taurus Mountains and exploring canyons is more enjoyable than the coast. The Alanya: Sapadere Canyon Tour with Lunch and Cave Visit takes you through banana and avocado orchards and up into the mountains in a 6-hour day plan. It is also preferred in summer because it is a few degrees cooler than the coast.
Which month is best for you?
- If you want to spend a long time in the sea: June, September and early October.
- If you want to avoid crowds and walk and explore: May and October.
- If you love heat and want a beach holiday: July and August.
- If you are a family with children: June and September, when the weather and sea are well balanced.
- If you are looking for winter sun: November and March.
To book a tour, simply choose a suitable date on the tour page on TurB2C. As tour days may change at the start and end of the season, check the dates and times before making your plans.
Frequently asked questions
Which month has the warmest sea in Alanya?
August and early September. The sea reaches around 27-28 degrees during this period. It is still comfortable for swimming in September and October.
Can you swim in Alanya at the end of October?
In most years, yes, because the sea stays around 25 degrees. On windy and cloudy days the seafront can feel cool, so it is a good idea to bring a towel and an extra layer.
Which are the busiest months in Alanya?
July and August. During the weeks when school holidays are at their peak, beaches, the harbour and tours become much busier. It is easier to have a quiet holiday in May, early June or October.
What is the weather like in Alanya in winter, and does it rain a lot?
Winter is mild; daytime temperatures are mostly 15-17 degrees. Rainfall is concentrated between December and February, but there are sunny days in between too. It is better to plan for sightseeing and relaxation rather than beach time.
