10-Day Turkey Adventure: Antalya, Beaches & Mountains
Experience Turkey in 10 days! Explore Antalya’s coastline, hike the Taurus Mountains & visit ancient ruins. A perfect mix of nature & culture—plan now!
A GOOD MIXMIDDLEASIA
About
This 9-day trip to Turkey is perfect for those seeking a balance between natural beauty and local culture, without long travel times. Starting in Antalya, you'll experience the stunning Mediterranean coastline, explore pristine beaches, hike in the Taurus Mountains, and visit ancient ruins in smaller, less touristy areas. Your journey will be a blend of outdoor activities, seaside relaxation, and a taste of authentic Turkish life, all while keeping your itinerary flexible and budget-friendly.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Arrive in Antalya and explore the Old Town, Kaleiçi, with its narrow streets and ancient structures.
DAY 2 - Duden Waterfalls & Lara Beach
Visit the Duden Waterfalls and enjoy the serene Lara Beach.
DAY 3 - Olympos & Phaselis
Discover the ancient ruins of Olympos, followed by a visit to the coastal Phaselis.
DAY 4 - Mount Tahtali & Sea Views
Take the cable car to Mount Tahtali for panoramic views and enjoy the surrounding hiking trails.
DAY 5 - Kekova & Simena
Drive to Kekova for a boat ride to see the sunken city and explore the quaint village of Simena.
DAY 6 - Canyon Adventure at Saklikent
Hike through the dramatic Saklikent Canyon and enjoy the refreshing mountain streams.
DAY 7 - Fethiye & Butterfly Valley
Drive to Fethiye, explore the Butterfly Valley, and relax at the secluded Oludeniz Beach.
DAY 8 - Patara & Xanthos
Visit Patara Beach and the ruins of Xanthos, both offering a mix of natural beauty and history.
DAY 9 - Departure from Antalya
Drive back to Antalya, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, and head to the airport for your departure.
DAY 10 - Flight
Based on your schedule, Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$540
$900
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $20-40 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Car Rental + ferries
Experiences
Parks, Tours, and other attractions
$180-360
$135-180
$180-225
$45-135
How are prices calculated?
GALLERY
When To Go
April to May
This is one of the best times to visit Turkey, especially for nature lovers. During these months, temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 18°C to 25°C. This creates the perfect conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. The days are comfortably warm but not too hot, making it ideal for trekking through the coastal paths or enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the Lycian Way. The seas are also warm enough for swimming, with water temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C, offering a refreshing dip without the chill. The crowds are relatively sparse compared to the summer months, which means you'll have the natural sites, beaches, and ruins more to yourself, providing a peaceful and immersive experience. If you're into photography, the landscapes during this period—especially in places like Cappadocia and the Mediterranean coast—look beautiful under the spring sun.
June to August
The summer months in Turkey can be quite intense, with temperatures often soaring between 25°C and 35°C. Coastal regions like Antalya and Fethiye remain pleasantly warm, making them perfect for beach lovers who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing by the sea. The sea temperatures are comfortable for swimming, ranging from 22°C to 26°C, ensuring a refreshing escape from the heat. However, inland areas—especially those in the highlands and cities like Pamukkale or Ephesus—can become quite hot and humid, which may make hiking and outdoor activities more challenging, particularly in the midday sun. It's best to limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day and seek shade or indoor attractions. The summer months also attract more tourists, which can make the popular spots more crowded. If you're a budget traveler, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance during this period to avoid premium prices, especially along the coast.
September to October
As summer winds down, the weather in Turkey becomes much more pleasant and comfortable. Temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C, creating ideal conditions for both beach relaxation and nature exploration. The sea remains warm, offering great opportunities for swimming and water sports, with temperatures averaging around 22°C to 25°C. With fewer tourists compared to the summer months, this is the perfect time to enjoy the more remote natural areas and explore Turkey’s ancient ruins without the crowds. Whether you're hiking through the picturesque mountains of Cappadocia, visiting the ancient ruins of Ephesus, or lounging on the Mediterranean beaches, the conditions are perfect for an active yet relaxing experience. The fall colors also begin to emerge in places like the Lycian Way, giving the landscape a stunning, vibrant appearance that adds to the charm of this season.
November to December
As autumn transitions into winter, Turkey’s weather cools down significantly, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 22°C. This is still a great time for hiking and exploring, as the cooler weather makes physical activity much more comfortable compared to the heat of summer. The skies are generally clear, and the lower humidity makes outdoor exploration enjoyable. While the beaches become less popular, the lack of crowds gives you the opportunity to explore Turkey's coastlines and archaeological sites in peace. The sea temperature also starts to cool off, with averages between 18°C to 20°C, making swimming less appealing for some but still possible for those who don’t mind a chill. For hikers, the cooler air is ideal for venturing into the mountains or the ancient ruins, where the lack of heat allows for longer excursions. This period is perfect for travelers who are looking to escape the crowds and experience a more peaceful side of Turkey. You'll need to layer up in the evenings, as temperatures can dip quite low, especially in inland regions.
January to March
During the winter months in Turkey, temperatures can drop significantly, especially inland and in the mountainous regions. Daytime temperatures generally range between 5°C to 15°C in most areas, with nights often dipping to below 5°C, particularly in regions like Cappadocia and the interior. Coastal areas like Antalya remain milder, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C, making it the most comfortable region during this period. However, while the Mediterranean coast remains more temperate, swimming may not be enjoyable as sea temperatures hover around 16°C to 18°C.
This period is ideal for those looking to explore Turkey’s natural beauty without the crowds. The cooler weather makes hiking and outdoor activities like trekking in the Lycia or the Taurus Mountains more pleasant, as long as you dress warmly and are prepared for potentially chilly conditions. The landscapes during winter can be incredibly scenic, with snow-capped mountains and clear skies, offering stunning photo opportunities. If you’re visiting ancient ruins or exploring areas like Pamukkale or Ephesus, the lower temperatures make the experience more comfortable without the oppressive summer heat.
However, you should expect some rainy days, especially along the coast, as Turkey’s wet season lasts from December to March. But this also means fewer tourists and more peaceful experiences at popular sites. While it’s not ideal for beach activities or swimming, this is the best time for cultural exploration, visiting museums, and enjoying indoor attractions like the famous Turkish baths (hammams).
Summary Recommendations
Best Overall Period:
April to May
This period offers the perfect blend of warm weather and fewer tourists, ideal for both hiking and beach days.
Alternative:
September to October
Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make this a great time for outdoor adventures and relaxation by the sea.
Avoid if Possible:
June to August
The summer heat can be overwhelming, especially for inland exploration. Stick to beach activities during this time.
Our Proposal
DAY 1
Arrive at Antalya Airport and pick up your rental car. Drive to the city center, check into your accommodation, and start by exploring the Old Town, Kaleiçi. Wander through narrow streets lined with ancient Ottoman houses, visit Hadrian’s Gate, and admire the views from the clock tower. End the day with a stroll along the picturesque Old Harbor, where you can watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
Check out some places to stay
We recommend some options just outside Antalya city centre if you move with a car
Check out some rent-a-car
We recommend some small car if you want to easily find parking near the touristic attractions
DAY 2
In the morning, drive to the Duden Waterfalls, located just outside of Antalya. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the paths that wind through the lush forest, and stand behind the waterfall for a refreshing experience. Afterward, head to Lara Beach, one of Antalya's most famous stretches of sand. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the sea, and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the beach at a local restaurant.
DUDEN WATERFALLS & LARA BEACH
DAY 3
Drive to Olympos (about 1.5 hours), an ancient Lycian city hidden in a forested valley. Explore the ruins, including the Temple of Hephaestus, and enjoy the scenic beach that lies just below the ruins. Afterward, visit the nearby Phaselis Ruins, another ancient city with well-preserved Roman baths, aqueducts, and harbors. Relax on the beautiful beach or take a swim in the crystal-clear waters.
OLYMPOS & PHASELIS
Check out some places to stay
We recommend to continue your trip and sleep somewhere near Demre, from where it will be easy to go around the next days
DAY 4
For a stunning panoramic view, drive to the base of Mount Tahtali, and take the cable car (Olympos Teleferik) to the summit. At 2,365 meters, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding coastline and Taurus Mountains. Afterward, enjoy a hike in the area, where there are several easy to moderate trails to explore. This is a perfect day for nature lovers who enjoy both mountain views and the sea.
MOUNT TAHTALI & MEDITERRANEAN VIEWS
DAY 5
Drive to Kekova (about 1 hour), a small island off the coast, and take a boat ride to see the famous sunken city of Kekova, an ancient settlement that was submerged after an earthquake. Continue to the village of Simena, known for its charming atmosphere and historical ruins, including a castle with views over the sea. Spend the day relaxing by the water, exploring the village, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
KEKOVA & SIMENA
DAY 6
Today, head to Saklikent Canyon, one of the longest canyons in Turkey (about 1.5 hours from Antalya). Walk through the narrow canyon, wade through cool mountain streams, and marvel at the towering cliffs. The experience is a refreshing adventure and a great way to connect with nature. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the local riverside cafés before returning to your accommodation in Antalya.
CANYON ADVENTURE AT SAKLIKENT
DAY 7
Drive to Fethiye (about 1.5 hours), a coastal town surrounded by mountains and the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. Visit the Butterfly Valley, a secluded and stunning bay that’s only accessible by foot or boat. Spend the day hiking, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water. You can also explore Fethiye’s lively marina area, or visit the rock tombs carved into the cliffs above the town.
FETHIYE & BUTTERFLY VALLEY
DAY 8
Take a day trip to Patara Beach (about 1 hour from Fethiye), one of the longest beaches in Turkey. It’s an excellent spot for sunbathing or a swim in the Mediterranean. Nearby, visit the ruins of the ancient city of Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the impressive ruins, including a Roman theater, ancient temples, and an agora. This day offers a great combination of beach time and cultural exploration.
PATARA & XANTHOS
DAY 9
Drive back to Antalya (about 2 hours), stopping for a last beach break at Konyaaltı Beach. If time allows, explore the Antalya Archaeological Museum to learn more about the region’s ancient history. Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure.
DEPARTURE FROM ANTALYA
DAY 10
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back