Autumn in Antalya...

When people think of Antalya, they usually imagine sea, sun, sand, and summer holidays. And of course, with summer come the scorching heat, the overwhelming humidity, and crowds of tourists from all around the world... Sometimes it gets to the point where you can’t even find a spot to lay down your towel on the beach.

Well, they say every beauty has its flaw. That’s exactly why, as someone who lives in Antalya, my favorite season here is autumn.

With the arrival of September, the suffocating heat gives way to refreshing coastal breezes, and as the tourists gradually return home, our beaches and coves become peaceful again. Instead of loud chatter, you're greeted by the calming sound of waves crashing gently on the shore.

In autumn, the sea temperature is simply perfect. You may even feel a slight chill in the air when you step outside. You know how Bodrum is famous for its dry, clear weather in the summer and attracts vacationers from all over? Well, September in Antalya feels exactly like a classic Bodrum summer.

Autumn is also the perfect time to explore Antalya’s mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. Two of the city’s most famous waterfalls—Düden and Kurşunlu—are located close to the city center and can easily be visited in the same day. Toward the end of the season, the golden autumn leaves create a stunning contrast with the turquoise waters, offering postcard-worthy scenery.

Düden Waterfall

Located just 10 kilometers from the city center, Düden Waterfall is a natural wonder that welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Watching the water cascade from a height of 40 meters is truly mesmerizing—especially when surrounded by the warm colors of autumn foliage.

Beneath the waterfall, there’s a natural cave, and a scenic walking trail runs alongside the stream. Within the waterfall area, you'll find cafés and a small restaurant where you can take a break, sip a warm cup of coffee, or try the freshly caught trout from the Düden Stream.

Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park

Located just 11 kilometers from Düden Waterfall, Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that becomes even more magical in autumn. Cascading from a height of 18 meters, the waterfall flows into and connects seven small turquoise ponds, creating a serene and photogenic setting.

A scenic walking path begins right where the water falls, inviting you into a forest full of surprises. Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by lush vegetation, playful rabbits and squirrels, ducks gliding across the ponds, and towering black pine trees. Watching the golden leaves drift down into the clear pools is a moment of pure tranquility—well worth experiencing.

Geyikbayırı

If you're looking for a different kind of Antalya getaway—one that connects you with nature and offers unforgettable experiences—Geyikbayırı awaits, just 25 kilometers from the city center. It’s not only Türkiye’s largest rock climbing area but also one of the most renowned climbing destinations in the world.

Here, you can walk through fragrant trails lined with orange, lemon, and pomegranate orchards, listen to the cheerful birdsong, and hike the middle slopes of the Beydağları range within the Taurus Mountains. You’ll also find Trebenna, one of the largest and least-known ancient cities from the Roman and Byzantine periods, tucked into the hills waiting to be explored.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, Geyikbayırı offers over a thousand climbing routes to choose from. And if climbing isn’t your thing, biking and hiking among these dramatic landscapes make it a perfect escape into Antalya’s autumn wilderness.

Limiting Antalya to just a summer destination would truly be an injustice to such a stunning natural wonder. Especially in autumn, with its mild and pleasant climate, the region offers countless ancient cities to explore, national parks to hike through, scenic walking trails, and a wide range of outdoor activities.

So don’t just take our word for it—come and experience Antalya in autumn with your own eyes.

Let me end with a beautiful line from a song by Haluk Levent:

“…You know, my love, how beautiful it is,
Autumn in Antalya…”

Önder Koca