MileHacker Logo
Best Times to Visit

Best Times to Visit

Mediterranean Coast, Turkey

Climate Patterns Throughout the Year

Spring (April-May): Temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 18 to 25°C (64-77°F). Humidity levels remain low, and rain is minimal. The sea begins to warm, making late May suitable for swimming. The landscape appears lush and green, especially in April, making outdoor exploration beautiful.

Summer (June-August): Hot and dry weather dominates, with temperatures often reaching 30 to 38°C (86-100°F). Humidity rises, and rain is virtually non-existent. Sea temperatures are wonderfully warm, between 24 and 28°C (75-82°F), ideal for all water activities. Long days, abundant sunshine.

Seasonal Climate Details

  • Autumn (September-October): Warm and pleasant conditions, 22-30°C (72-86°F). Lower humidity, occasional light rain later October. Sea retains warmth, good for swimming. Crowds thin, summer heat recedes.
  • Winter (November-March): Mild temperatures, 10-18°C (50-64°F). Rainfall more frequent, December and February highest. Sea temperatures cool (16-19°C / 61-66°F). Many days still sunny, early winter and late spring.
  • Weather patterns: Mediterranean climate with distinct seasonal benefits.
  • Warmest Sea: June to October for optimal water temperatures.

Important Weather Notes

Summer brings intense sun. Sun protection, high SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are useful. Hydrate with plenty of water. Seek shade during the hottest hours (11 AM to 3 PM).

Winter can experience strong winds and rough seas, possibly affecting boat trip schedules. Monitor local weather forecasts closely for planned activities.

High Season

July-August

Pros

Hottest weather, warmest sea. All tourist facilities operate fully. Ideal for classic summer beach vacations.

Cons

Larger crowds, peak prices. High temperatures are uncomfortable for exploring or hiking.

Shoulder Season

May-June, Sep-Oct

Pros

Enjoy pleasant temperatures, warm enough for swimming, comfortable for exploring. Fewer crowds than high season. Generally lower prices. Ideal for Lycian Way hiking, ancient ruins.

Cons

Early May/late October, some tourist businesses may be scaling up/down. Sea cooler in early May/late October.

Low Season

Nov-April

Pros

Very few tourists, tranquil local atmosphere. Lowest prices for accommodation and services. Good for cultural exploration without crowds. Lush, green landscapes after winter rains.

Cons

Many tourist-oriented businesses close for winter. Cooler weather with more rain. Sea too cold for most swimmers. Limited boat trips.

Best Activity Times

Water Activities

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: June to October provides the best visibility and warmest water temperatures for underwater exploration.

Land Exploration

Hiking (Lycian Way): April-May and late September-October offer comfortable temperatures, avoiding extreme heat and heavy winter rains. Sightseeing Ancient Ruins: Shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) for pleasant temperatures, making exploration comfortable.

Activity Timelines

  • Beach & Swimming:

    June to September for enjoyable conditions.

  • Diving & Snorkeling:

    June to October for best water and visibility.

  • Lycian Way Hiking:

    April-May, late September-October for comfort.

  • Ancient Sightseeing:

    Shoulder seasons for comfortable temperatures.

  • Budget Travel:

    Low season for best prices.

Seasonal Discomforts

  • High temperatures in summer can make exploring uncomfortable.
  • Winter brings cooler weather and higher chance of rain.
  • Strong winds and rough seas during winter may limit boat trips.

Planning Note

The Mediterranean climate shapes your visit. Choose your travel dates based on desired activities and comfort with heat or cooler weather.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Many nationalities, including citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, and most European Union countries, can obtain an e-Visa online. This process is generally straightforward and quick.

Essential Documents

Carry your original passport. It needs validity for at least 6 months beyond your departure date. Keep a printed or digital e-Visa copy. Proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket are advisable.

Document Checklist

  • Valid Passport (6+ months validity)
  • E-Visa (if applicable, print/digital copy)
  • Sufficient Funds (proof advisable)
  • Return Ticket (proof advisable)

Entry Formalities

E-Visa fees vary by nationality and are paid online. Immigration involves presenting passport and e-Visa to an officer. The process is generally efficient. Prepare for queues in peak season.

Entry & Immigration

  • E-Visa fees paid online (non-refundable).
  • Documents verified and passport stamped upon arrival.
  • Process is efficient, but queues may occur during peak times.
  • Be cautious of unofficial e-Visa websites.

Visa Types & Health

Visa Types Overview

  • E-Visa: For USA, Canada, Australia, most EU citizens. Multiple entries, up to 90 days within 180 days.
  • Visa-Exempt: Some nationalities need no visa for short stays.
  • Sticker Visa: Other nationalities obtain from Turkish embassy/consulate pre-travel.
  • Official e-Visa application: Evisa.gov.tr. Avoid unofficial sites.

Permits & Health

  • Special Permits: Generally not needed for tourism. Commercial filming may need permits.
  • Health Requirements: No specific health entry requirements currently. Routine vaccinations are current.
  • Always check latest official travel advisories before travel.
  • Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid for some travelers.

Health Recommendations

  • Routine Vaccinations: MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, Flu shot up to date.
  • Hepatitis A and B: Advisable for most, spread via food/water or bodily fluids.
  • Typhoid: Consider if consuming food outside major restaurants or visiting rural areas.
  • Rabies: For long-term travelers or those near animals in rural areas.

Important Advisories

Consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized advice.

Before You Go

  • Check official health advisories for any changes.
  • Ensure routine vaccinations are current.
  • Consider recommended additional vaccinations.
  • Consult travel clinic for personalized advice.

During Your Stay

  • Carry prescription medication documentation.
  • Use bottled water for drinking.
  • Practice good food hygiene.
  • Be aware of local emergency numbers.

Visa Tip

Always use the official Turkish government e-Visa website (Evisa.gov.tr) for applications. Avoid third-party sites.

Budgeting & Costs

Money Matters

The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Exchange rates fluctuate, so checking current rates before your trip is advisable.

ATMs are widely available in Kaş and accept major international cards. Obtaining local currency via ATMs often proves most suitable. Credit cards gain wide acceptance in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Some smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Cash & Cards

  • Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency.
  • ATMs are widespread for cash withdrawals.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted; some small places prefer cash.
€35

Budget Traveler

Expect to spend around €35-€60 (1200-2000 TRY) per day. This includes staying in a hostel or a basic pension, consuming local eatery fare or street food, using public transport like dolmuş or walking, visiting free attractions, and engaging in limited paid activities. This style focuses on value and local experiences.

Local Eateries & Street Food

Luxury dining or private tours

€70

Mid-range Traveler

A daily budget of €70-€150 (2400-5000 TRY) permits more comfort. This includes staying in a mid-range hotel or a charming boutique guesthouse, dining at a variety of restaurants, using taxis occasionally, joining guided tours, and visiting multiple paid attractions. This presents a balanced experience of comfort and exploration.

Comfort and varied dining

Extensive private services

€200

Luxury Traveler

For a more indulgent experience, budget €200+ (6700+ TRY) per day. This covers luxury hotel stays or villa rentals, fine dining experiences, private transfers, exclusive boat tours, and premium activities. This travel level focuses on comfort, privacy, and curated experiences.

Premium experiences

Strict budget adherence

Cost Breakdown

Category Item Price Range
Accommodation Budget pension €30-€60 (1000-2000 TRY)
Meals Budget eatery €8-€15 (270-500 TRY)
Transportation Local Dolmuş €0.50-€1 (15-35 TRY)

Tipping Guidelines

  • Restaurants:5-10% (15% for exceptional).
  • Taxis:Round up fare, small amount.
  • Hotel Staff:€1-€2 (35-70 TRY) for porters/housekeepers.
  • Tour Guides/Drivers:€5-€10 (170-350 TRY) per person for full-day.

General Tipping

  • Bars/Cafes:Round up bill or small change.
  • Service Charge:Check bill, sometimes included.
  • Market/Souvenirs:Bargaining expected in bazaars, not fixed-price shops.
  • Gratuity:Appreciated, not strictly mandatory.

Saving Strategies

Eat localChoose traditional Turkish lokantas and street food vendors.
Use DolmuşUtilize local minibuses for short distances.
Cook own mealsIf kitchen available, buy groceries from local markets.
Off-season travelVisiting in shoulder/low season significantly cuts accommodation costs.
Book tours locallyDirectly from operators at harbor, sometimes cheaper.
Bargain at marketsExpected in bazaars and for some souvenirs.

Budgeting Wisdom

  • ATMs are available, avoid airport exchange.
  • Local eateries offer value meals.
  • Dolmuş save on transport costs.
  • Consider off-season travel for lower prices.
  • Always carry some Turkish Lira cash.

Health & Safety Considerations

Grasp necessary precautions, medical service access, and local safety information.

Vaccination Overview

  • No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry to Turkey for most nationalities.

    Checking official health advisories for any changes before your trip is good practice.

  • Consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized advice.

    Base advice on your itinerary and medical history.

  • Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Rabies are recommended based on itinerary.

    Hepatitis A/B (food/water), Typhoid (rural areas), Rabies (animal exposure).

Common Health Concerns

Kaş summers have a risk of sunburn and heatstroke. Use high SPF reef-safe sunscreen, wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, hydrate. Seek shade during peak sun hours (11 AM - 3 PM).

Traveler's Diarrhea: This is a common issue for many travelers. Drink only Bottled water, avoid ice unless you confirm it comes from purified water, and consume cooked food. Peel fruits yourself. A travel-specific diarrhea prevention kit is useful to carry.

Insect Bites: Mosquitoes, especially near standing water, can be present, particularly during warmer months and evenings. Use Insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.

A Travel-specific diarrhea prevention kit can be useful to carry.

Access to Healthcare

  • 1
    Kaş State Hospital (Kaş Devlet Hastanesi) provides emergency and general medical services.

    Several private clinics and pharmacies (eczane) operate throughout the town. Pharmacies are generally well-stocked and offer advice for minor ailments.

  • 2
    For serious medical emergencies, transfer to larger hospitals in Antalya or Fethiye may be necessary.

    Emergency Number in Turkey: 112 (This single number integrates ambulance, police, and fire services).

  • 3
    Tap water in Kaş is generally safe for washing and brushing teeth, but not for drinking.

    Always drink bottled water. Consider a Water bottle with a filter as a sustainable option.

Crime & Safety

Kaş is a very safe town with a remarkably low crime rate, specifically against tourists. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, is rare but can occur in crowded areas or on public transport, though it is far less common in Kaş than in larger cities.

Safety Overview

  • No specific neighborhoods in Kaş are known for higher crime rates.
  • Town center and tourist areas are generally very safe, even at night.
  • Always exercise general caution; be aware of your surroundings.

Security Tips

Natural Hazards

Turkey lies in an active seismic zone. While major earthquakes are rare in the Kaş region, minor tremors can occur. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures: Drop, Cover, Hold On.

Wildfires

The risk of wildfires rises during hot, dry summer months, especially in forested areas. Heed any local warnings or restrictions.

Flash Floods

Heavy winter rains can cause flash floods, specifically in low-lying areas or wadis (dry riverbeds).

Emergency Contacts

Contact your embassy or consulate in Turkey in case of a serious emergency, a lost passport, or legal issues. Keep their contact details readily accessible.

Travel Insurance Recommendation

A good policy includes medical emergencies, medical evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost luggage, and personal liability. Verify policy coverage for planned activities, such as scuba diving or paragliding, if your insurer labels them high-risk. Read the fine print of your policy carefully. Consider providers like World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy.