Weather Lowdown
The average temperature in Alanya, Turkey, ranges 11°C (52°F), reaching a high of around 16°C (61°F) and dipping as low as 6°C (43°F). Light, warm clothes such as coats, scarves and gloves are recommended.
There are about 10 hours of average daily sunshine in January. The length of day increases slightly over the month. The shortest day is January 1 with 9:41 hours of daylight; the longest is January 31 with 10:19 hours.
The average sea temperature around Alanya is about 17°C (63°F), which is often considered too cold for swimming. If you do opt to hit the beach, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy, like windsurfing.
You can expect to experience rain on an average of 14 days in January. The amount of rain measures roughly around 227mm. Each day there is about 36% chance of precipitation, occurring as light rain or thunderstorms. The skies above Alanya in January are typically partly cloudy (65%). Humidity ranges from comfortable (41%) to humid (83%). Averages are fairly constant, however, staying around 62%.
Daily wind speeds vary from light air to moderate breeze. Winds typically blow in from the north or northwest, though sometimes from the south.
Over the course of January, average temperatures stay fairly consistent. January 1 begins with averages of 11°C (52°F), with highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F). This drops very minutely by the end of the month to averages of 10°C (50°F), highs of 15°C (59°F) and lows of 5°C (41°F). Rain is common, with nearly two weeks total expected over the course of the month.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Turkey is plentiful. Gunes House is a popular choice, with its stunning views of Alanya Castle. The hotel is excellently located, just five minutes from the beach--a great option for swimmers. It is an older hotel, but guests who travel to Alanya generally are those who prefer exploring the outdoors to luxury and amenities.
An alternative option is Grand Kaptan. This all-inclusive hotel provides guests with a semi-private beach, equipped with umbrellas, bar and restaurant. Each one of the 49 rooms offer en suite bathroom, balcony, satellite TV, wifi and minibar. Onsite facilities include water slides and an Italian restaurant. A bus runs from the hotel to the centre of Alanya eight times per day. Previous guests recommend rooms on a higher floor, as they have spectacular views of the sea and the castle.
Travellers looking for a romantic boutique should book Hotel Villa Turka. This beautiful 19th century castle boasts 11 lavishly decorated rooms, homemade breakfast buffet and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The villa also keeps an organic vegetable garden and a small pool that overlooks the city. All guestrooms are equipped with wifi, A/C, satellite, phone, en suite bathroom, and safe deposit boxes. Book the suite with sea view for its wooden balcony and panoramic views.
Hit the Beach
Once a mere stretch of sand, Alanya has expanded its beaches to accommodate predominantly Dutch and Scandinavian travellers. Many hotels are located right on the water's edge. Though January is a bit too cool for water activities, visitors can take advantage of boat cruises, nightclubs and hotel pools nearby.
Eat and Drink
Many tourists choose to visit the Redtower Brewery and Restaurant for the beer, obviously, but also to enjoy the delicious menu and beautiful views. The restaurant features quite a selection of Italian dishes and there are always plenty of fresh-caught fish on the menu. The terrace atop the brewery, which is actually across the street, gives a unique panoramic view of the area.
Things to Do
Visitors can enjoy many activities in and around Alanya, though the variety diminishes in the winter months. The jewel of the crown is the Kale, or Citadel, a castle situated on a hilly peninsula. The far edge of this peninsula is formed by a narrow extension of rocks, dubbed Adam Atacagi ("man thrower"). This is the place where people condemned to death were pushed into the sea.
Shopping is an event in Alanya, as the locals employ the fine art of haggling. You can buy everything from Turkish tea sets to water pipes and wallets.
Escape the cooler winter climate and visit a Turkish Bath for the evening. Traditional hamams are everywhere in Alanya, where you can enjoy spa-like services like steaming, scrubbing and massage.
Just outside of Alanya are the monastery ruins of Alarahan. Don your comfortable shoes and climb rock-carved stairs up the side of a mountain to visit these old ruins.
