antalya travel

Once seen simply as the gateway to the Turkish Riviera, Antalya today is very much a destination in its own right. Situated right on the Gulf of Antalya (Antalya Körfezi), the largest city on Turkey's western Mediterranean coastline is both classically beautiful and stylishly modern. At its core is the wonderfully preserved old-city district of Kaleiçi (literally 'within the castle'), which offers atmospheric accommodation in the finely restored Ottoman houses on its winding lanes. The old city wraps around a splendid Roman-era harbour with clifftop views of hazy-blue mountain silhouettes that are worth raising a toast to. Just outside of the central city are two beaches and one of Turkey's finest museums.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Antalya's historic district is a sight in itself and you could happily spend half a day strolling the narrow lanes here while admiring the mix of finely…

Antalya Museum

Do not miss this comprehensive museum with exhibitions covering everything from the Stone and Bronze Ages to Byzantium. The Hall of Regional Excavations…

Yivli Minare

This handsome and distinctive 'fluted' minaret, erected by Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubad I in the early 13th century, is Antalya's symbol. The adjacent…

Hadrian's Gate

Commonly known as Üçkapılar (the 'Three Gates') in Antalya, the monumental Hadrian's Gate was erected for the Roman emperor's visit to Antalya in AD 130…

Roman Harbour

The Roman harbour at the base of Kaleiçi's slope was Antalya's lifeline from the 2nd century BC until late in the 20th century, when a new port was…

Mawlawi Lodge Museum

Tucked away within the Yivli Minare complex, this fascinating domed structure dates back to 1377 and was beautifully restored in 2018. Its original use is…

Sultan Alaadın Camii

This gem of a mosque is squirrelled away in the back alleys of Kaleiçi. It began life as the Greek Orthodox Panhagia Church in 1834 and was converted to a…

Antalya Culture & Arts

This contemporary cultural centre has a lively program of exhibitions covering artists from local heroes to Picasso and Warhol. There's a cafe and small…

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Latest stories from Antalya

Wildlife & Nature

Jan 19, 2017 • 1 min read

A cat village has been set up in Antalya, Turkey, with villa-style houses, hammocks and playgrounds designed exclusively for approximately 100 street cats.

Sep 15, 2014 • 5 min read

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All You Need to Know Before Traveling to Antalya–A Complete Guide

No matter how many times I visit Antalya, I’m never done with it, and I don’t think I’ll ever be.

I find new things to do every time I go to Antalya. The city is adventurous and peaceful at the same time.

If this is your first time in Antalya or you want to go there with more information about the city beforehand, you may find this travel guide helpful.

This guide consists of information about transportation and accommodations with a few fun activities thrown in .

Pack your hat, camera, swimsuit and don’t forget to bring your energy with you! I hope you enjoy this guide and your time in Antalya!

How to Apply for an E-visa for Turkey

Turkey makes it easy for people coming from outside Turkey to get tourist visas. Please go to www.evisa.gov.tr  and follow the process outlined there.

If everything is correct, you should receive your e-visa instantly . When you fill out the form , be sure to observe the requirements . Pay the fee according to your nationality, and after that, your e-visa will be ready to download.

Good luck with it!

Antalya at a Glance

Antalya is a beautiful, special city, known as the 5th most crowded city in Turkey .

It’s also a bustling metropolis , home to many different kinds of people, from locals to tourists.

You’ll discover that it’s full of culture and a number of fun options. What makes it so special is that it’s been a human settlement for millennia, and there are traces of this historical reality everywhere.

Antalya also has a splendid natural setting . The waterfalls, canyons, and natural beaches will make you forget your problems and live in the moment.

Antalya in History

One of the things that makes Antalya special is that its home to the earliest fossil remnants in Anatolia. Found in Antalya’s Karain Cave, the remains and artifacts have been dated by archaeologists to Paleolithic Age; more on that later in this article.

After the Paleolithic Age, Antalya became a part of the ancient regions known as Pamphilia  (southeast) and  Lykia  (east). Later,  Antalya was home to people in Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman times .

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

Antalya is great and full of many attractions, so you can feel free to enjoy the experience here any time you choose , though your priorities may change based on the season in which you go. For example, if you’re a sea-lover, you should definitely plan to go there when it’s warm out.

Here’s a bit more information about that.

May-September

This is when you’ll be able to enjoy the sun the most. Antalya is the best place for a summer holiday, especially from June to August .

Don’t worry about exploring–the beautiful blue water and clear sky is all you’ll need.

It can still be a bit chilly at night in May, but I assure you that there’ll still be enough sun to enjoy. Keep in mind that it can get really hot  in July and August–too hot some days.

October-November and April

If you don’t enjoy crowds, then October, November, and April are the months for you to visit. You can still enjoy the sea , even in October.

December-March

Antalya’s still nice in the winter. Why not enjoy the history of the city or ski at this time of year?

Antalya has a heavy rainy season that changes from year to year, so don’t forget to check out the weather out before you go.

How to Travel to Antalya

International flights arrive at  Fraport TAV Antalya Airport , 13 km from the city’s center, which is very close. You can organize a transfer from Antalya Airport to your destination point.

There are also two public buses– number 600 (runs every 30 minutes) and 800 (runs every 2 hours –leaving the airport and going to Antalya’s Bus Terminal. You can catch a number of minibusses from the terminal to various points in Antalya.

Depending on where you’re going in Antalya, you can also go to YDA Dalaman Airport in Muğla Region, which is closer to Kalkan and Kaş.

There are shuttles to and from Dalaman Airport. Call 444 0 487 to make a reservation.

If you plan to stay in Kaş or Kalkan, going directly to Antalya Airport would be a better option, saving you almost 5 hours on the way from Dalaman to Antalya.

How to Get Around Antalya

Antalya is a big city, but there are plenty of vehicles with which to get around. You may go there with your own car or rent a car from one of the rental companies with offices at Antalya Airport.

To find their offices on the terminal map, go to https://www.antalya-airport.aero/passengers-visitors/services/useful-applications/floor-plans

Public transportation is another option. If your accommodations are close to the city’s center, go to the bus terminal to find buses or minibusses to every part of Antalya.

Other options for traveling from the airport to your hotel or traveling around Antalya include taxis. You’ll see the yellow cabs–labeled TAKSİ–almost anywhere in the city. It costs around 10USD from the airport, but you can always bargain with the drivers for long-distance trips.

Instead of a taxi, you can arrange for a private transfer with your flight company or hotel. If they don’t have this service, look up transfer companies on the Internet to make reservations.

The transfer companies are really professional and reliable. They speak English and help you carry your luggage. Most companies have drivers who wait for you at the exit, holding a placard with your name on it.

Where to Exchange Currency

The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL) .

I recommend not exchanging a large amount at the airport. Exchange only the amount you need for the road and snacks. You’ll find better places regarding exchange rates later.

A better idea is to an ATM to withdraw Turkish Liras, as the rates will be better, and it’s more practical for travelers.

If you have any difficulties, you can still use your foreign currency–the city is known for catering to tourists, and everyone is familiar with USD and Euros. It’s even used in some cases, but you can’t expect it.  

Where to Stay

There are a lot of options for accommodations in Antalya, including luxurious hotels, cozy hostels, camping areas, and wooden houses –there’s a place for everyone in Antalya.

First, decide upon the district you want as a home base, like Kaş, Kalkan, Alanya, or Olympos. Next, start looking for options. (If you’re staying in Alanya, check out My Complete Alanya Guide )

Here are some of the options available according to place.

My first recommendation would be Olympos. It’s very beautiful, and the environment is dynamic with a lot of young people about . It’s right next to the sea, located in an ancient valley.

There are plenty of hostels and campgrounds on the road to the sea. You can stay in private or shared houses–Olympos is most famous for its wooden house tradition.

You can spend your mornings reading on comfortable chairs and join the groups of people gathering in the place’s garden in the evenings.

There are also cafes and gözlemes. You’ll enjoy spending the afternoon under the shade of a pavilion, reading a book.

Olympos is 70 km from Antalya. Take a minibus from Antalya. Don’t forget to tell the driver you’re going to Olympos, so he’ll know to drop you on the way. Be ready for 1-hour drive.

Though you could spend your entire vacation in Olympos, staying in Kaleiçi will make you more mobile . ( Here’s my full guide to Kaleici – Oldtown Antalya )

If it’s your first time in Antalya or you like to explore, you should choose Kaleiçi! Staying here will satisfy your love of culture.

Here, there are more than 100 boutique hotels , so you can choose one that appeals to you. You’ll also be close to Antalya’s many beaches.

If you want to find comfort in the complete service of a luxury hotel, then you should go to Lara.

Most of Antalya’s 5-star hotels are in Lara.  The magnificent sea in the area will also make you so happy and content!

Alanya might be a bit far from the center of the city, but the advantages there will make you happy with your decision to go there.

It’s 130 km to Antalya, which takes around 1.5 hours to get there. You can take a bus or minibus from Anlayna’s city center.

There are both luxurious hotels and affordable hostels in the area.

This hidden haven in Antalya is usually chosen by SCUBA divers, but it can be one of your destinations during your holiday.

There are mostly hostels here, but you can find some nice hotel options in the Küçükçakıl area , too. Çukurbağ Peninsula also has a number of hotels.

Here, you’ll be right in front of the Greek island of Meis and a number of bays and small islands.

Other Options for Stays

The above can help you choose accommodations, or you can find another place from the countless other options, like Kemer, Belek, Kalkan, and Konyaaltı, among others.

What to do in Antalya?

There are countless options when it comes to things to do in Antalya.

Make Your Day at the Beaches

If it’s summer in Antalya, then the beach is the first thing that should come to mind. Here’s my full guide to Antalya’s beaches, including maps. 

Sometimes, I think Antalya’s sole purpose is its beaches. I really adore them, and I’m sure you will, too. There are many options, ranging from natural bays to enjoyable private beaches .

If you and those in your party want to be on your own, then Konyaaltı ‘s the best place to be. If you’re a fan of private beaches who likes colorful cocktails and great music all day long, then you should take a walk on Lara Beach.

If you are in Olympos , you’re already at the beachside. On your way to the beach, you’ll come across the ruins of an ancient city alongside a stream.

If you’re at Kaş , the Büyükçakıl and Küçükçakıl Beaches are there. Kaputaş Beach is close by, and it’s worth the effort to hit the road and embrace its famous blue waters.

Other swimming destinations include Cleopatra Beach, Phaselis, Adrasan, Patara, Karpuz Kaldıran, İncekum, Finike, Ulaş, or Mermerli .

Walk Around in Old Town

The center of Antalya, Kaleiçi, is very rich in culture and art. It’s home to many important historical places to visit, like museums and fun places like zoos. To take a look at the historical places, here’s a guide.

Hadrian’s Gate: Also known as Üçkapılar (The Three Gates) and Mermer Kapı (The Marble Gate), the gate was built in 130 A.D. as a sign of respect to Roman Emperor Hadrian, who visited the city that year.  

It was constructed in the Corinthian style, with 3 arches and 2 colonnaded facades. It’s seen as the most beautiful gate in Pamphylia, and I think it definitely deserves its reputation.

Clock Tower: Another beautiful, interesting building is Antalya’s Clock Tower, located in Kale Kapısı.

The Clock Tower was built by Grand Vizier Küçük Sait Pasha in 1901. It was named after Abdulhamit II, is square in shape, and made of stone. There are clocks on all four sides.

The clocks you see aren’t the originals–they’ve been changed to keep up with the times.

Yivli Minaret Mosque: Also known as Alaaddin Mosque and Ulu Mosque, YivliMinare Mosque (Fluted Minaret) is an interesting, must-see in Antalya, Kaleiçi.

One of the first Islamic constructions in Antalya, it was built by  Seljuk  Sultan  AlaaddinKeykubad I, and its minaret is decorated with turquoise tiles. 

Külliye: Yivli Minaret Mosque is a part of the külliye created by Seljuks. Besides this, there are several other historical buildings around for you to visit. They include Madrasah of Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev, Seljuk Lodge, Mevlevi Lodge,  Dervish  lodge, Türbe of Zincirkıran, and Türbe of Nigar Hatun .

Try Scuba Diving

If you’re a diver, you may already know the beauty of Antalya’s diving spots.

If you’re not a certified diver, there are also options for you to try, called try-diving  (or discovery diving). Even if you don’t plan to go for a dive, you should definitely try it once to experience the beauty underwater firsthand.

You can dive in districts in Antalya like Kaş, Kalkan, Kemer, and many other places.

Rafting can be a good option for adventure-lovers. You can talk to a tourism company to arrange for a day to take one of their tours. You’ll find many good companies that deliver secure fun .

Köprülü Canyon is a good option for rafting. It’s best in the warm seasons, but it’s available from  April to November. Don’t worry about your level of experience because tour companies will arrange for a group suitable for your level of experience.

Köprülü Canyon is 400 m deep at its maximum and 14 km long.  It’s a part of Köprü River, which begins in the Sütçüler District of Isparta and flows into the sea in Antalya.

Go Skiing (Yes, Skiing!)

You might be surprised to learn that Antalya has some great skiing spots. Saklıkent is 50 km from Antalya’s city center . It’s located in the Toros and Beydağları hills, on Antalya’s west side.

A one-day trip to Saklıkent can make you feel kind of dizzy because you’ll experience two different seasons in one day –a warm spring-like weather and a cold, winter day covered in snow.

Skiing season in Saklıkent is between December and April. If this is a priority for you, be sure to check to see if the snow’s arrived before you go.

Try going with an organized tour and spend a nice day in the brisk mountain air.

Take a Tour to the Waterfalls

Antalya is a region rich with waterfalls. Below is a short guide to several of Antalya’s waterfalls .

Manavgat Waterfall

Manavgat Waterfall is fascinating in that the water runs year-round. You can go there with friends, family or by yourself. It’s enjoyable and peaceful all the time.

Located in Manavgat–Antalya’s second-largest district–the name’s also derived from the district. It’s easy to reach, being 4 km from Manavgat’s center and 72 km from Antalya. Don’t miss the chance to see the Manavgat Waterfall if you’re going to be in Antalya.

Manavgat Waterfall is created by the fall of water over a cliff 3 to 4 meters high in the course of the Manavgat River. The river is an important one, also called Til and Melas in historical texts.

Rafting, Jeep safaris, trekking, boat tours, or taking a nature walk are some of the options you can do here.

Düden Waterfalls

There are two separate Waterfalls at Düden, namely, the Upper and Lower Düden Waterfalls.

They are 8 km from the center of Lara district , where the water falls over cliffs 40 meters high. It’s a marvelous experience.

The Lower Düden Waterfall–also known as Karpuzkaldıran (Watermelon-Lifter) Waterfall–is a haven for those wanting to escape the heat of summer in Antalya.

The Upper Düden Waterfall is also known as Iskender (Alexander) Waterfall since Alexander the Great spent some time there letting his horses drink on his voyage to Pamphylia. That wasn’t, of course, a holiday trip, but rather, a military expedition to Pamphylia.

You can enjoy the waterfall area by taking a walk or while drinking tea in the tea gardens. You’ll find picnic areas and restaurants in this natural park. Go there to take in the cool air, listen to the sound of burbling water, and enjoy the greenery around you.

Kurşunlu Waterfall

With its multiple little lakes and waterfalls, the Kurşunlu Waterfall area promises an enjoyable and peaceful day or a weekend. Here are some accommodation options you might want to check out.

The main waterfall goes over a cliff 18 meters high. There are also several minor waterfalls. Seven small lakes connect within this setting.

The forest flora in the park is very rich,  replete with red pines, eastern sycamores, bay, carob, wild olive, gum, willow, and fig trees. You’ll also find myrtle hawthorn, oleander, blackberry, wild rose, euphorbia, tamarisk, spruce, kermes oak, thyme, wild mint, record, fern, and vines. You’ll also see aquatic plants such as buckthorn, water mint, water reed, water chandeliers, green algae, and waterlilies.

On a walk in the park, you’re sure to meet plenty of wild animals, like foxes, rabbits, squirrels, wild boars, turtles, carp, water turtles, dogs, snakes, and lizards walking, jumping or swimming. Bats, hoopoes, and woodpeckers are in the trees or flying around you, so be alert!

Kurşunlu Waterfall is located 22 km from Antalya’s center. You’ll find it on the Antalya-Isparta main road, or you can take a minibus from the city’s center.

The Sapadere, Değirmendere, Uçansu, and Gömbe Uçarsu Waterfalls are among other options.

Points of Interest for History Lovers (With Map)

As you may already know, Antalya is a region consisting of a number of different areas. Every one of them is home to another point of interest.

In the map above, you’ll see Antalya’s ancient cities. I suggest you to Olympos where you’ll find ancient baths and beautiful graves.

Xantos and Patara are two must-see places, since they were central cities thousands of years ago. Here’s you’ll find giant, well-preserved structures.

Myra is not only the best archaeology-wise, but its also the best, aesthetically. Here, you’ll see some of the most beautiful graves in Turkey.

There are more ancient sites than depicted on the map. My favorites are Aspendos and Side.

Visit the Ancient City of Aspendos

Aspendos was on the Pamphilian side of the map , known as ΕΣΤϜΕΔΥΣ   in Pamphilian. This ancient Greko-Roman city is located in Belkis Village in Serik District, 45 km to Antalya, which is easy to reach.

The city was constructed by Achaeans in 10th century B.C., but the characteristics earning this site its popularity was gained by Roman construction in the 2nd century A.D .

The most important part of the site is the  amphitheater , which is very well-preserved, and provides seating for 12,000 people . The architect behind this wonder was Zenon of Aspendos.

I also find it very interesting that it’s still used as a theater. During the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival, many productions are put on in the theater in the spring and early summer.

Other structures that you’ll see here are a basilica, an agora , a nymphaeum , a Roman aqueduct, and the Roman Eurymedon Bridge.

See the Ancient City of Side

Side is the most important port city in Pamphylia Region. Side means “grenade” in Luwian. The site was used as a settlement from 8th century B.C. onward .

Side was within Lydian borders in the first half of 6th century B.C. and was dominated by Persians–who contributed much to the city–in the second half. Alexander the Great conquered Side in 334 B.C.

After that, the adventure continued as the people of Side accepted domination from one empire to the next, but the important city has never diminished. Side is in Manavgat District, 78 km from Antalya. Why not take a tour to see Manavgat Waterfall and the ancient city of Side together?

There are ruins and remnants of many structures here. Side’s main street is lined with the ruins of  houses and shops . There’s also a  hospital dating to the  6th century, and an  ancient Roman theater within the walled remains.

Other structures include 3 temples, an aqueduct, and a nymphaeum.  Evidence from ancient times isn’t well-preserved, prompting visitors to use their imagination while there.

Read my Antalya Tours Guide for more information.

Where to Eat?

There are plenty of options for food in Antalya, from seafood to traditional Turkish kebab houses, cafes serving dessert, and vegan/vegetarian restaurants. All of these are waiting here for you to try!

For more on this, see my Complete Guide to Food and Restaurants in Antalya .

Zaika Meyhane

Zaika has gained popularity very quickly over the past few years. In this village tea garden, colorful garden lamps hang just above you, and the music really makes the atmosphere.

Zaika derives its name from the concept of “ zaika ,” meaning the sense of taste . The food they cook is delicious and appeals to your sense of taste.

They have a number of ways to serve red meat here. Also, the mezes will make your day (or should that be night?). Since it’s a meyhane you might want to have a couple of drinks along with your dinner. Before you go, don’t forget to have their pumpkin dessert– it’s nothing short of delicious! 

Oburus Momus

This is another restaurant in Kaş, but this is the only one serving vegetarian/vegan food . You should certainly try this place if you like experimental foods.

There are some great options on their menu with a good portion size. You will certainly be full when leaving here.

I recommend their colorful bowls, containing a number of different foods. It is satisfying for the stomach, eyes, and taste buds. I think these bowls are the best option here. There are two of them, called “Oburus Bowl” and “Momus Bowl.” A variety of vegan/vegetarian food in a bowl? Delicious!

Handmade ice tea  and  lemonade  will help to make your day if you’re dropping in between swims.

Ramiz Grill House

Ramiz Grill House is for  special nights out . Maybe it’s your birthday or your anniversary–be sure to choose this place for dinner.

If you’re lucky, you’ll find a table in front of the sea. If not,   you’re sure to enjoy the atmosphere inside.

There are a lot of delicious options on their menu, like steak with butter or a Dallas burger. Their professionally cooked steaks are sure to make your night!

Burnt Ice Cream for Dessert

In Antalya Region, they serve a new flavor of cream, called burnt ice cream ( yanık dondurma ). The predominant flavor is vanilla, but the milk is burned during the manufacturing process, which is what gives the ice cream its unique taste.  

When you try it, you’ll realize you’re experiencing something special. I warn you: it can be addictive. You can find this delicacy everywhere in the region, including patisseries.

One of the most popular places for this special treat is Zamora in Konyaaltı.

Finike Orange

Antalya is famous for is Finike oranges. Imported to the region at the end of the 1960s, they’re yummy. Think about adding oranges to your fruit menu.

Budget/ Summary of Expenses

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, there are many nice hostels in the area. These aren’t luxurious, nor are they camping areas. If you chose these accommodations, a 5-day stay in Antalya could cost around 200-250USD.

Included in this trip’ budget are accommodations, a Museum Pass the Mediterranean (7 days–see below for more information), transportation, and meals.

Accommodations

If you stay in a camping area, you’ll pay around 10USD per night. If you stay in a 5-star hotel then you can pay up to 80USD. For a moderate choice–a stay at a nice hostel–you can expect to pay 12-24USD per night. Note that this might also include breakfast.  

It’s possible to limit your meal budget to 12-15USD per person per day, but if you’d rather have dinner at fancier restaurants, it’s likely to cost 20-30USD per person.

I usually spend a couple of nights fine-dining and take my other meals at a more casual place.

On average, 20USD per day for food will probably be sufficient.

Transportation

If you have your own car, your gasoline budget will likely increase the cost of transportation. If you rent a car, expect to pay around 20USD per day plus gasoline expenses.

If you use public transportation and travel from district to district, it will cost about 10-12USD per day.

Tour and/or Museum Fees

If you will spend a couple of days is Antalya visiting museums and archaeological sites, you should definitely opt for a museum pass. Called Museum Pass the Mediterranean and valid for 7 days, it costs 37USD, but it’s worth it.

Since I’ve given you a range of options, it’s hard to come up with an exact total. It’s best to calculate it based on your preference. For a traveler like me, it’s around 50USD per day, which includes good meals and flexible choices.

I hope you’ve found this travel guide useful, and I hope you enjoy your vacation in Antalya.

I’m only a traveler and by no means an expert, but I hope my advice and experiences will work for you, too.

Don’t forget to extend your research to find the best plan for your adventure.

Keep in mind that I could not include everything in a single post. To be truly prepared for a trip, one should read a lot and travel, too. That way, we can all have a better appreciation for the city of Antalya.

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Antalya is an autonomous and the 5th most populous city in Turkey. The city is located on the Mediterranean coast, south of Turkey and is a popular tourist destination, dubbed the “Tourism Capital of Turkey”, attracting around 30% of international visitors to the country. So, is Antalya worth visiting, what to do in Antalya and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Antalya for the first-time? Let’s check out our Antalya travel blog (Antalya blog) with the fullest Antalya travel guide (Antalya city guide, Antalya guide, Antalya tourist guide) from how to get to Antalya, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Antalya to find out the answer!

• What to do in Antalya? — 8 Must, top & best things to do in Antalya
• When is the best time to visit Turkey? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to travel to Turkey
• Top beaches in Turkey — 17+ most beautiful & best beaches in Turkey
• Izmir blog — The fullest Izmir travel guide for first-timers
• Fethiye blog — The fullest Fethiye travel guide for first-timers

Antalya is very important to the Turks and many other countries because it plays an important role in trade from Asia to the Mediterranean Sea, but the great thing is not in the meaning of the city but in Antalya itself. The trading port of a time now gives visitors a special feeling, lightness and relaxation.

The city of Antalya has a typical Mediterranean climate with dry, hot summers and warm winters, the number of tourists is increasing because they can come to relax at any time of the year. Besides, the ubiquitous presence of traditional Turkish baths, unique cuisine and distinctive flavors that cannot be found anywhere else.

Antalya travel blog: Overview of Antalya

Located on the southwestern coast of Anatolia (aka Asia Minor, is a large peninsula in Western Asia), bordering the Taurus Mountains, Antalya is Turkey’s largest city on the Mediterranean coast with over 1.3 million people in the metropolitan area. Located next to the beautiful bay, Antalya was found around the 1st century BC. As soon as he discovered this land, Attalus II Philadelphus said that this was indeed Heaven. Today, it is the 5th largest city and also the second largest tourist destination in Turkey from all over the world after Istanbul. Sunset in Antalya is a magical image that anyone wants to see.

I don’t know since when, indigenous people have flocked to Antalya, tourists from all over the world eagerly flocked to Antalya to visit, admire and gradually turn this city into a tourist capital with the ability to attracts up to 30% of visitors to Turkey, becoming the 5th most populous city in the Asian-European country with more than 1.3 million people living here (according to statistics from 2022).

Antalya was established around 150 – 135 BC, founded by King Attalus II of the Pergamon empire under the name Attaleia. After its establishment, the city has always been densely populated and under great influence and influence from the culture, history and economy of the Roman empire, the Roman Emperor – Hadrian once left his trace Antalya by the triumphal arch bearing his own name (Hadrian’s Gate), which was renovated and became the entrance to Kaleiçi old town. In addition to Rome, Antalya was also influenced by Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman empires, as well as modern day of Turkey.

Like many other coastal cities, with busy and bustling trade activities over thousands of centuries, Antalya culture not only contains traditional Turkish culture but also blends many other cultures to create a colorful, friendly Antalya, giving all visitors the feeling of being in their homeland with the culture, history, cuisine… very close and familiar.

Or there are colorful gift shops, lively streets and bars that attract tourists. Historical works bearing the imprint of Byzantine or Ottoman Empires, etc. are well-preserved. Festivals, streets with old houses or beautiful beaches… All of these are reasons why you should at least once in your life pamper yourself with this paradise.

Harmony between nature & history in Antalya: The most interesting thing about Antalya is that the city is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and is located on the Silk Road, and is an important seaport of Asia Minor, so Antalya has natural beauty and cultural interferences of cultures, special history.

When to come?

Today, Antalya is one of the most popular resort cities in Turkey and in Europe. In the summer, Antalya welcomes many tourists to relax, in the winter with a mild climate, this place becomes a place to welcome German, Russian or Nordic tourists to escape the cold. But there is no really peak season that makes the city crowded with tourists because Antalya is a new place on the international tourist map.

Most of the year, Antalya is covered with brilliant yellow sunshine and cool air due to the incessant sea breezes blowing from the Mediterranean to the mainland, so travel experts recommend visitors to come here around April to October every year to enjoy cool, pleasant sunny days.

Late winter, early spring (May onwards) is when Antalya’s weather is warm and sunny, the trees are green, the orchards are full of fruit, sometimes you can also see herds of cows, sheep and goats leisurely grazing on green grass. It’s a bustling modern city with luxurious shopping and entertainment centers next to historical heritages and thousands of years old architecture. That’s why, Antalya is always likened to the “tourist capital” of Turkey.

However, if you want to stay in Antalya for a long time or you hate frustrating hot days, remember to avoid to go this city in the summer, the summer weather of the tourist capital is extremely easy to make you upset and tired.

Antalya travel guide: How to get to Antalya?

You can getting to Antalya by some means of transport such as by air, by train, bus, self-driving car or even by boat.

International Antalya Airport is about 14 km from the city center, and you can traveling to the center by Havas airport shuttle bus numbers 600 or 800 but they are not really suitable for passengers with bulky luggage or taxi. You can take flights of Turkish domestic airline Onur Airlines to reach Antalya from all big cities of Turkey and also other international destinations. Some other airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Thomas Cook, The Sun Express, or Condor… also offer cheap flights from and to Europe (UK, Austria, Germany, Switzerland or Italy).

To find the best suitable routes as well as cheap tickets you can hit Google Flights , Skyscanner , or Kayak to find.

Anatlya is quite easy to reach by bus from everywhere across Turkey. The routes of E87, D400, D650 with the final destination is Antalya Bus Station.

From Istanbul bus stations Esenler Otogar, and Alibeyköy Otogar, you can easy take a bus to Antalya. The traveling time is around 11 or 13 hours. Some bus firms operating routes such as Pamukkale Turizm, Metro Turizm, and Isparta Petrol Turizm.

Due to a port city, you also can reach by boat with many ferry services to Antalya. However, almost all tourists come here via Rhodes island of Greece, dock in Marmaris and then continue take a bus to Antalya. To find a ferry as well as schedule you can refer here.

Antalya travel blog: Where to go, what to do in Antalya?

Antalya archeology museum.

Address: Bahçelievler, Konyaaltı Cd. No:88, 07050 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 8:30AM–8PM

Possessing 13 artifact galleries and an outdoor exhibition area, the Antalya Archeology Museum is a great place to showing the city’s rich history. At the center of a vast peninsula, many ancient artifacts are collected around the vicinity and brought back to the Antalya museum, with more than 5,000 artifacts and works of art that reflect the local identity and perspective through the periods.

When visiting the museum, you will witness Antalya from the Stone Age to Rome, and see many influences of dynasties and cultures that have profoundly influenced this land. The entrance fee is 30 TL.

If you like to do some meaningful visits in the city, the Antalya museum is also an extremely interesting destination. There are more than 10 antique galleries here arranged according to separate themes to help visitors easily admire the antiques according to their liking such as the subject of statues, the theme of ceramics, the furniture in the house. family, work tools…

With a large list of antiquities and an extremely large hall, visitors can take half a day to visit all of them. The antiques are displayed solemnly, the lights are bright, and the description of the antiquities in English is easy to understand to help visitors observe and learn about the antiques more conveniently.

If you are a history buff and want to explore the cultures of Turkey, don’t forget to visit this massive museum in Antalya. It houses thousands of artifacts unearthed from the coast of this country. There are more than 5,000 works of art on display in periods, with English captions that are easy for tourists to learn.

Some rooms are full of pottery, animal galleries date back to the Stone Age, and countless artifacts cannot or have not been displayed. The large number makes visitors overwhelmed, in a spacious and airy space with more than 7,000 m2. But the most prominent of which is the statue of Perge, the exhibition area includes paintings assembled from Seleukeia.

Antalya travel blog: Hadrian’s Gate

Address: Barbaros, Hadrian Kale Kapısı, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey

Originating in the Roman Empire more than 2,000 years ago, this temple gate is one of the main and most important gates leading into the old town of Kaleici. It is divided into 3 aisles with arches, sturdy columns all built of marble, showcasing sophistication and elaborate sculpture, commemorating the visit of the emperor Hadrian to the city of Antalya.

Greek theatre of Termessos

Address: Bayatbademleri, 07800 Döşemealtı/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 8:30AM–5PM

A very famous stone work in Antalya that you will deeply regret if you do not visit before leaving the “Tourism Capital” is the Termessos theater. Although over the years, the theater has lost its splendor and magnificent like the day it was built, but the ruins are still present on the high mountain north of Antalya.

Located in the north of the city, it was formerly an ancient theater built for performing arts. The theater has a stage area, above are rows of seats made of stone, from the highest point can still be heard below. And zoom out to see the vast landscape of nature. In addition, there are temples of goddess Artemis, Emperor Hadrian, and surrounding ancient buildings.

The rows of terraced seats, doors, and stage of the theater were quietly lying there, despite the wind and rain, as if trying to preserve the memory of a glorious time, a time when the theater was still full of visitors. There were noble aristocrats, there were also common people, and there were also lowly slaves whose were looming around the theater.

Pamukkale “Cotton Castle”

A natural landscape that visitors will “Mouth A, Eye O” unable to close their mouth when seeing is Pamukkale cotton castle. It’s the same series of steps as at the Termessos theater, but it’s not the hard stones covered with the dust of time, but the white limestone steps and the blue stream flowing from one step to another. create a magnificent waterfall, beautiful like paradise.

It is one of the tourist attractions that attracts visitors to Antalya the most. The impressive beauty of the white layered limestone steps created, when the water on the stream flows down to form stunning small clear blue pools. From a distance, it looks like it is covered with snow, so it is also called a cotton castle. Visitors coming here not only check in with the unique lake but also soak in the fresh hot springs.

Every year, millions of tourists come here to admire the scenery, take a hot spring bath and, of course, have no shortage of luxurious “check-in” moments. Each spot in Pamukkale can make a unique highlight for your photo.

Roman Harbour

Address: Selçuk, Ayazma Sk. No:206, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey

Also known as the Old Harbor, this place was formed when Antalya was under the domination of the Roman Empire, with its important position, this place became a busy trading port. Today, the harbor is home to countless yachts.

I enjoyed Turkish beer, green mussels sprinkled with delicious lemonade by the sea. Surely the experience of watching the sunset here will give you a feeling of absolute relaxation.

Antalya travel blog: Waterfalls

Dubbed the kingdom of waterfalls, Antalya owns dozens of picturesque waterfalls. The most famous one is Manavgat with 40m width and less than 5m high, falling loud with white foam from the Taurus mountain. Although not a tall waterfall, but the flow is very strong and Manavgat waterfall is considered one of the symbols of Turkey.

Besides, there is also the majestic Duden waterfall located about 10km from the center of Antalya city. I cannot leave Antalya until I have been to the Duden waterfall. As a city located on a high cliff above sea level, with rivers flowing into the sea, Duden waterfall formed as a natural mark dotted on the city. The sunrise here has a beautiful light, here I can also spotting planes landing at Antalya airport every 5 minutes. It is about 20 minutes away from the city center by taxi. Make sure to arrive before the sun rises for the best photos.

The waterfall is formed from the Duden River with the main waterfall Upper Duden 15m high, 20m wide and at the end of the river flowing into the Mediterranean Sea to form the second waterfall Lower Duden. This is a colorful picture of nature, with turquoise water, green leaves and white bubbles.

Kaleici Old Town

Not too impressed by the old town of this coastal city, because the architecture looks somewhat restored. Many restaurants and souvenir shops have sprung up to serve tourists, making the old town lack its rustic charm. But the most visited place of the old town must be Hadrian’s gate where the whole neighborhood begins as mentioned above.

This place is like a maze for you to walk and explore. Villas built in Ottoman architecture are covered with white and red roofs along the cobblestone streets. This neighborhood is home to many boutique hotels, souvenir shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Tourists come here both to enjoy the scenery and live in the traditional sounds.

In addition, this old town in Antalya also has a mosque built in Roman architecture with a towering tower. In particular, the clock tower is built entirely of stone, on the top there is a flag, 4 clock faces with ancient scripts. Of the 80 buildings built around the city, it alone remains, as an eloquent witness of the history here.

And an indispensable experience when coming to Kaleici is to sit at the shops and cafes in the port area. From here, enjoy food, sip some wine while watching the sunset with beautiful boats passing by. In the evening, walk on the paved road to enjoy the cool breeze, chat around the beautiful small streets with ancient and rustic houses. Or immerse yourself in folk music on the street.

It is quite interesting that from Kaleiçi, you can take a boat or cruise tour to the Lower Duden waterfall in just 45 minutes, bring your swimsuit, and swim comfortably by this magnificent waterfall.

Near Kaleiçi, there is a small port overlooking the sea, including the mountains in the distance, sitting outside restaurants and cafes near the sea, you can drink wine, enjoy a romantic dinner while watching Beautiful sunset covering the peaceful and beautiful beach.

Karaalioglu Park

Address: Kılınçarslan, Park Sk., 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey

If you do not like to see the sea from the small port near Kaleiçi, you can go to Karaalioglu Park, which also has great sea views but also has rows of stone benches scattered throughout the Karaalioglu grounds, visitors just need to choose their one favorite seating position, sit back and watch the sea all day without disturbing anyone, especially, the seat is completely free.

Coming to Karaalioglu at night, lucky visitors can also immerse themselves in the tune of love songs and folk songs performed by local bands and traveling artists.

The Ancient City of Myra

About 140km from the city of Antalya, Myra is an ancient town located located in Antalya’s Demre County in the ancient Lycia region, now Antalya of Turkey. When the city of Myra was founded is not known, only known that it was formed in the 1st century BC. Myra was also one of the six leading cities of the Lycian League in antiquity (Xanthos, Tlos, Pinara, Patara and Olympos).

Coming to Myra, you will be overwhelmed when admiring the open-air theater built in 200 BC with intact stone steps that can accommodate up to 12,000 spectators. You can also visit another ancient structure, the church of Saint Nicholas, a familiar destination for pilgrims and also one of the most precious architectural heritages of the Byzantine empire that remains today. But the most impressive in Myra are the stone tombs distributed in two main areas: one is in the cliffs west of the open-air theater dating from the 4th century BC, the other is along the river Myros , also known as river cemetery. The richness of Myra is also thanks to the alluvial deposits from the Myros River. The tombs are carved layer after layer into the rugged rock, making the whole cliff look like a mysterious ancient castle.

Antalya Aquarium

Address: Arapsuyu, Minicity and Hillside Su Hotel eastern corner of Konyaaltı Beach, Dumlupınar Blv. No:502, 07200 Konyaaltı/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 9:30AM–8PM

As the largest tunnel aquarium entertainment complex in the world, Antalya Aquarium has 40 themed aquariums with 131m in length and 3m in width. Not only can you admire the marine species in the aquarium system, you can also visit the wildlife park to see reptiles, you can also enjoy playing in the Snow World and unique ice museum, take pictures with Hollywood background and end the trip with full and delicious meals served at restaurants and cafes in the amusement park.

Koprulu (Köprülü) Canyon National Park

Address: Bozyaka, 07550 Manavgat/Antalya, Turkey

Covering an area of ​​366 square kilometers, Köprülü National Park is the ideal place for you to experience the lush green beauty of Antalya. It has the Köprülü canyon 400m deep and extends up to 14km along the Köprü river. Around the canyon are forests of cedar, pine, and green cypress dotted with famous fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, creating a breathtaking scene. This is the ideal place for trekking, camping or for an even more exciting experience you can go rafting on the Köprü river.

Antalya blog: What and where to eat?

Below are the best dishes worth trying in Antalya

Antalya’s famous Dondurma ice cream (Battered ice cream)

Many visitors have given countless praise words of encouragement to Dondurma ice cream as they roam the streets exploring the city of Antalya. This dessert looks like the other popular ice creams you know but it’s more viscous with the salep ingredient found in the ice cream and so thick and chewy that you’ll need a knife and fork to cut it but the taste is so delectable.

Once try Dondurma, you will immediately put it in the list of the best ice cream that you have tried. Ice cream is widely sold on the streets of Antalya, visitors can buy it in any street while walking.

Locum and Baklava

In addition to Dondurma, Antalya’s tourist streets are filled with Turkish pastries that you should definitely try once in your life. Locum and Baklava are two familiar traditional confections and sweets in any city of Turkey, but if you want to know the taste of Antalya’s own candy and sweets, you should buy and try to feel it.

After Locum and Baklava, find and try Tulumba, a popular dough pastry in the tourist capital made with a unique monosodium glutamate. The shape and size of the cake varies by store, but it is usually cut into small sticks. The taste is great when eaten when the Tulumba is fresh out of the oven, do not buy cakes that have been baked for a long time because the Tulumba flavor will fade over time.

Antalya cuisine also “names” another dessert worth choosing as Pişmaniye, which is the most sold pastry in cafes and street food vendors. It is shaped like a candy, but has more ingredients and is mainly Turkish “specialty” nuts such as pistachios, sesame seeds…

If you are looking for the most authentic Turkish Pismaniye, you should head to the Kaleiçi old town in Antalya, the chefs here specialize in preparing this dessert according to an ancient recipe, the taste of the traditional Pişmaniye is guaranteed to be so delicious that you will not regret it for having to go all the way to Kaleiçi to find it.

Restaurants you should visit when coming to Antalya city

You are not satisfied with sweet confectionery in Antalya yet? Coming to these famous restaurants, you will surely fall in love with the cuisine of this beautiful tourist city right away.

Gizli Bahçe

Address: Selçuk, Karadayı Sk. No.5, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 8AM–12AM

The first restaurant we want to recommend is Gizli Bahçe, which literally means “Secret Garden”. The restaurant is located on a high cliff, facing the Mediterranean coast with a large view for visitors to have extremely romantic dinners on the romantic seaside.

The restaurant specializes in traditional Turkish dishes, but the menu also features many famous delicacies, cooked according to international recipes. In the evening, the restaurant also plays live music for guests to dance, play and relax comfortably.

Antalya tourist guide: Blue Parrot

Address: Yeni Mah. Barbaros Cad. Cebeci Atlantis Sitesi Alti No. 2 Mahmutlar, Alanya Turkey

Blue Parrot restaurant is a great choice for families with large space, often chosen to hold big parties, the restaurant is also equipped with a giant plasma screen that often broadcasts sports events for you, your family to watch more vibrant and exciting matches.

The restaurant menu is also very diverse, in the morning the restaurant serves delicious English breakfasts, in the afternoon is the time for salads, light desserts and in the evening is a feast of savory Turkish cuisine specialties.

China Garden Restaurant & Bar

Address: Bahçeli Evler Mah. Konyaaltı Cad. Atatürk Parkı İçi, 544 Ada, 07100, Turkey

If you want to enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine, go to China Garden, the restaurant has a beautifully designed terrace area. Peking duck is the most famous dish of the restaurant that you should try when coming here, crab soup, hot biscuits made from shrimp and spicy chili sauce are also worth a try.

Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Address: Selçuk, Paşa Cami Sk. No:14, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 4PM–12AM

Enjoying the fragrance of the green garden and the spacious space on the windy Mediterranean coast is the reason why many diners return to Seraser Fine Dining even though the price here is not cheap. In a delicately decorated space surrounded by ancient Kaleiçi stone walls, each dish brought to you is an elaborate work of art from form to content. Seraser Fine Dining is a restaurant and bar of Tuvana hotel that is open all day and night with an indoor space that can accommodate 80 diners, and an outdoor garden that can accommodate 100 diners.

Şemsiyeli Butik (Umbrella Street)

Address: Tuzcular, 2. İnönü Cd. No: 14, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey

Not far from the bazaar of Kaleiçi (Antalya Merkez), just a few hundred meters from Hadrian’s Gate, is a place that no visitor wants to miss to experience the street food space as well as a great check-in point for dining under colorful umbrellas. And the perfect food to enjoy in these lovely streets is the traditional Turkish Kebab. Enjoying a fragrant fish sandwich or a slice of tender grilled lamb and then leisurely strolling around shopping for lovely handmade items is ideal for a beautiful day in Antalya.

Anis restaurant on this Umbrella Street is famous for its Turkish Pizza, or lahmacun – Arabic pizza, güveç stews and traditional Kebap dishes.

Sibel’s Four Seasons Cafe & Restaurant

Address: Merkez, 159. Sk. No:3, 07990 Kemer/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 8AM–12AM

Sibel’s Four Seasons Cafe & Restaurant impresses visitors with its slate architecture, impressive mountain views, and especially food made with fresh farm produce from the owner’s farm is not far away. This is the ideal stopover before and after trekking the majestic Lycian Taurus mountain. Sibel’s Four Seasons Cafe & Restaurant will treat diners with a menu of soups, Mezzes (appetizers) and special dishes that change daily. The restaurant also organizes trekking tours to explore nearby destinations. Coming here, you should enjoy the restaurant’s famous icli köfte minced meat pies, Beycik salad and goat meat stew in claypot.

Vanilla Lounge

Address: Selçuk, Uzun Çarşı Sk. No:33, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 10AM–1AM

Vanilla Lounge is Antalya’s most famous restaurant just a few steps from Hadrian’s gate. True to the philosophy that the restaurant pursues, it is a place to satisfy all tastes based on cooking techniques that are both classic, modern and full of creativity. You can go from amazement to amazement as you experience all kinds of world flavors at Vanilla Lounge which features appetizers and even main dishes in Thai-style. And Vanilla Lounge’s menu is also inspired by Italian cuisine. All made with the freshest, local, seasonal ingredients.

Ship Inn Marina Restaurant&Bar

Address: Liman Mahallesi, Liman 2 Cadde, 07130 Konyaaltı/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 11:30AM–12AM/Saturday, Sunday: 10AM–12AM

If you are a cheese fanatic, and crave a quiet space away from the tourist spots of Antalya, you can’t miss Ship Inn Marina – a restaurant with a modern style and unique cuisine which presents the diversity of Turkish culinary flavors. The restaurant overlooks the immense lake covered with green trees, nearby is the Setur Antalya marina. Taste traditional Turkish dishes such as yörük (pan-fried veal chops) or grilled meatballs, or let yourself be “immersed” by a menu filled with salads, pizzas, baked foods, seafood, and countless other dishes. Special dishes in the style of Ship Inn are transformed with cheese. The restaurant is about 17km from Antalya city center, about 10km from Atalya Aquarium.

Antalya guide: Shopping in Antalya

Here are good places to shop and best shopping malls in Antalya where you can buy souvenirs and other gifts.

Address: Fener, Tekelioğlu Cd. No:55, 07160 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 10AM–11PM

Rated by visitors as one of Antalya’s best shopping malls, Terra City is like a must-see for travelers on a journey to discover the Mediterranean city, nearly 8km from the city center. 150 stalls selling products of famous brands such as Burberry, Armani, Michael Kors, Adidas and Hugo Boss along with 30 restaurants and amusement parks for children will make visitors not want to leave.

Shemall Shopping Center

Address: Fener, Tekelioğlu Cd. No:3, 07160 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 10AM–10PM

A bit smaller than other shopping centers in Antalya, SheMall Shopping Mall only has about 70 stores. But this place has a special attraction because it regularly organizes cultural events and attractive shows that make visitors come here to have a different shopping experience. In addition, you can also buy quality books, novels, and magazines in English at D&R Books.

Antalya Migros Shopping Center

Address: Arapsuyu, Atatürk Blv. No:3, 07070 Konyaaltı/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 10AM–10PM

Considered as one of the affordable shopping places, Migros Shopping Center gathers 10 stores from many mid-range brands such as 5M Migros, Zara, Mudo, LC Waikiki, Boyner, Mudo with integrated cinema and countless number of restaurants and fast food stalls. From the Migros mall, you can enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea and the majestic Beydağı mountains.

Markantalya Avm

Address: Tahılpazarı, Kazım Özalp Cd. No:84, 07040 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 10AM–10PM

Located in the busy tourist center in the heart of Antalya city, Markantalya Avm shopping center is an ideal shopping and entertainment area located on an area of ​​more than 5 hectares, with the convergence of 155 famous brands, international coffee shop, restaurant chains and modern cinemas. MarkAntalya is only 2km from the center of Antalya, more than 3km from Kaleiçi old town and a few steps from the famous Murat Paşa mosque.

Deepo Outlet Center

Address: Altınova Sinan, Serik Cd. No:309, 07170 Kepez/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 10AM–10:30PM

If you want to shop freely without worrying about your wallet running out quickly, this is the ideal place. Deepo Outlet Center is the largest outlet center in the Mediterranean region with 80 stalls and stores, 5 cinemas, 15 restaurants, coffee shops, and many utilities spread over an area of ​​4 hectares. Enjoy 365 days of discount, shop at the original price at Deepo Outlet Center and you will get bargains from countless famous brands such as Nike, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Koton, Hotic, Vakko, Mavi Jeans, Colins, or Miss Sixty.

What to buy?

Gülizar carpet kilims gallery: turkish rugs.

Address: Tuzcular, Uzun Çarşı Sk. No:17, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 9AM–8PM/Sunday: 10:30AM–7PM

Walking around the old town of Kaleiçi, you will come across very eye-catching traditional Turkish handmade tapestries (Kilims). A tablecloth, a square rug with intricate embroidery will be a precious gift when visiting Antalya. Stepping into Gülizar Carpet Kilims Gallery, you will feel overwhelmed by the colors, patterns and details on the embroidered products that are hung all over the walls, covered with tables and chairs. It can take many hours for visitors to fully explore the a wide range of the products here. Gülizar Carpet Kilims Gallery is also highly appreciated by many visitors for its affordable prices, enthusiastic, cute staff and friendly owner Mehmet Bey. You can learn a lot about the history of this traditional product and what it means to the people of Antalya.

Osmanli Sultan Carik: Handmade leather goods

Address: Barbaros, Hesapçı Sk. No:14, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 9AM–8PM/Sunday: 10:30AM–8PM

This is a famous and very popular handmade leather goods and jewelry store in Antalya in the central area very close to Hadrian’s Gate. The beautifully crafted collection of bags, purses, shoes, flip flops, and boots in cowhide or buffalo skin will leave you spellbound, although handmade leather goods never come cheap.

Nil Tekel Shop (Pottery)

Address: Yeşilbayır, Atatürk Cd. No:70, 07190 Döşemealtı/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 8AM–1AM

Pottery was born in Turkey several centuries ago. If you are far away, it is difficult to bring back the elaborately heavy pottery items, but just look at the Nil Tekel Shop’s ceramic collection of all shapes, sizes, and colors, it also makes your trip much more enjoyable. In Turkey there are about 300 pottery workshops across the country.

Silver Harmoni: Silver Jewelry

Address: Andifli, İbrahim Serin Cd. 12 A, 07580 Kaş/Antalya, Turkey Hours: 9AM–12AM

Silver Harmoni’s handmade silver jewelry will make you fall in love with its sophistication and intricate. Crafted from silver combined with gemstones and crystals, Silver Harmoni’s silver jewelry is a precious souvenir, crystallized from the love between Karen Henry from Australia and Yusuf Gökben from Turkey. Although born and raised in Istanbul, Yusuf was fascinated by the beauty of Kas and Antalya, so the two decided to settle down and open a silver handmade jewelry shop here. Silver Harmoni products receive praise from almost every visitor who visits.

Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Concorde De Luxe Resort ( Agoda , Booking )
• Crowne Plaza Antalya, an IHG Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Swandor Hotels & Resorts – Topkapi Palace ( Agoda , Booking )
• Sherwood Exclusive Lara ( Agoda , Booking )
• Delphin BE Grand Resort ( Agoda , Booking )
• Ramada Plaza Antalya ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Su ( Agoda , Booking )
• Nirvana Cosmopolitan ( Agoda , Booking )
• Akra Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Antalya on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Tips to visit Antalya

Below are do’s and don’ts when traveling to Antalya.

• Mosques in Turkey are very popular and Antalya is no exception, if you come to these mosques to visit, don’t forget to take off your shoes before going inside and keep quiet during your journey to discover artistic beauty of the mosques.
• In addition, before entering the church, pay attention to wear discreet, non-revealing, light-colored clothes to avoid disturbing the followers and possibly endangering your own safety.
• If you are a person who likes to take pictures, please take arbitrary selfies but do not take pictures of local people on the street, if you want to take pictures, ask for their permission and absolutely do not arbitrarily take pictures of women wearing black shawls, this behavior is prohibited and if you violate it, you may face very severe punishment.
• Coming to Turkey, after dining at restaurants, don’t “tip” to the service staff by adding 5-10% of the total amount of the bill, do not give the tip directly to the staff, this behavior not suitable in Turkey.
• If you want to buy clothes or jewelry in Antalya, it would be unwise to go to the shops and roadside stalls because they are not of good quality, buy them at reputable supermarkets and shopping centers.
• When shopping at traditional markets, retailers remember to bargain, do not ask for a discount because they will not give you a discount, but if you go to a large supermarket, you may get a discount.
• Buying things at the market, remember to bring cash with small denominations to easily pay the seller because many sellers pretend they don’t have change to “force” you to buy things at a high price when they are sure the items they sell “monopoly”.
• Most of the famous attractions of the city are easily accessible by bus, you can also use a taxi service but discuss the price before starting the trip as many taxis do not have meters.
• Alcohol beverage is prohibited on the street, should only be drunk in certain places such as bars and restaurants, but you may not find alcohol on many restaurant menus if coming to the tourist capital on important religious celebrations.
• Like many other Turkish cities, tap water is not safe for health, so it’s best to buy drinking water at stores and supermarkets.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Antalya you can refer to

• Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Kursunlu Waterfalls Day Tour from Antalya
• Kekova Sunken City, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya
• Fire of Anatolia Show at Gloria Aspendos Arena
• Antalya Aquarium Ticket
• Pamukkale Day Tour from Antalya
• From Antalya or Kemer: Suluada Island Boat Trip with Lunch
• Antalya: City Tour including Waterfalls and Cable Car
• Antalya: Full-Day Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour & Lunch
• Quad Bike Fun in the Taurus Mountains
• From Antalya: Perge, Side, Aspendos & Waterfalls Guided Tour
• From Antalya/Kemer: Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour with Lunch
• Antalya City Tour and Duden Waterfalls Visit with Boat Trip
• Kemer Full-Day Scuba Diving Adventure
• Koprulu: Canyoning, Rafting, and Zip Line Adventure
• From Antalya: Taurus Mountains Full-Day Jeep Safari

Read more Turkey guide here . And 8+ best things to do in Antalya here .

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Antalya Travel Guide: Vacation on the Mediterranean in Turkey

Our Antalya Travel Guide provides all the details you need from when to go, family-friendly activities, where to stay, and favorite local foods to try when you are there.

Antalya is the largest city along the Mediterranean coast with all kinds of fun activities for younger and older kids alike. There are many options for spending time in the water, hiking, or for adventure seekers, paragliding, or parasailing.

If this is just one of your stops in your Antalya trip itinerary while you are in Turkey, we recommend 2 – 4 days depending on how much time you have what you want to do while you’re here. After visiting Antalya, you can head down the coast to other beach towns like Kas or Alanya , or head to the Aegean region of Turkey.

Some links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission if you book through these links, and that helps keep this blog running.

When to Go to the Antalya Coast

Summer: june to august.

The peak season for visiting the Antalya coast is from June to August when the weather is hot and humid. The water in the sea or rivers are perfect for taking a swim. You’ll find lots of tourists in the city and on the local beaches. To find less crowed areas, you’ll need to venture outside of the city for the day to Cirali, Kas or head out on a group or private boat trip.

Fall: September to November

When the peak tourist season is winding down, from September to early November, you’ll still have warm weather without the intense heat and humidity of the summer months. This is our favorite time of the year to be outside with our family. Spend the day hiking and exploring, visit a local café patio to people watch or visit the ancient ruins in the city.

Spring: March to May

As Spring arrives, locals are anxious to get outside from being indoors from the cold rainy winter months. The flowers are blooming, the weather is still cool but beginning to warm up as you get closer to the summer months.  While the weather may be warmer, the sea and the local rivers are still quite cold and not ideal for swimming. If hiking and outdoor adventures in the sunshine with less crowds is what you are looking for, this is a great time of the year to be here!

How to Get to Antalya from Istanbul

To travel to the Antalya coast from Istanbul or any other major city in Turkey, you can fly one of the smaller airlines such as Pegasus, SunExpress or Onur Air during the high season. There will be less flights available in the low season. Turkish Airlines flies to Antalya from the Istanbul Airport , but typically you will pay more to fly.

Getting Around Antalya

If you’re staying in or near Old Town| Kaleici or Konyaalti, you will want to plan on walking. There are so many options of things do within walking distance and you can always jump on the trolley or catch a taxi as needed.

There are 2 trams lines in the city that can be used with the pre-paid Antalya Kart. You can pick one up at any tram stop. You need a minimum of 15 Lira to get the card and can refill at any stop.  Antray connects the town center with the airport and bus station.

The nostalgic tram line runs in the town center along the coastline. Its fun ride for the kids to see a bit more of Antalya without having to walk through the entire city. You can use the tram to get to the Antalya Museum and Konyaalti Beach .

If you’re going somewhere further than walking distance in the city, you can take a taxi.  You can expect around 60 TL from the airport to the town center. Ask your driver to use the meter before you go anywhere.

Travel Tip: We don’t recommend driving in the city unless you have nerves of steel and an adventurous spirit. Road trips to smaller locations are doable. You can rent a car at the airport.  

Best Places to Stay in Antalya

Looking for the best places to stay in the Mediterranean city of Antalya with kids ?  There are many types of accommodation options as well as different areas of the city you can stay, and it can get overwhelming.  In this guide we tell you the best areas to stay depending on your type of travel, who you are traveling with and the length of your trip.

A bonus, we’ll share the best all-inclusive resorts , hotels, boutique hotels, pensions, and Airbnb’s for each area.

City Center

Staying in the city center is a great option if this is your first trip to Antalya. You’ll have quick access to get to the Old Town, visit local attractions or head to the beach for the day.

Within the city center, you’ll find Kaleici or Old Town is a buzz with shops, cafes, coffee shops , restaurants which makes a great option for enjoying the local night life. You’ll find boutique hotels, pensions and Airbnbs in this area that are great for couples and singles looking enjoy Antalya anytime day or night.

This is our one of our favorite areas for families that is still close to the city center. If you’re heading to the Antalya coast to enjoy the beach this is the area for you. Konyaalti Beach is just west of the City Center. You can find a hotel right across the street from the pebble beach or a view select 5-star options a stone’s throw away. You can head to Kaleici by taxi and be there between 5-10 minutes.

Lara is located east of Antalya’s Old Town approximately a 30 minute car ride from the city center. Lara boasts 5 start hotels and sandy Lara Beach. This is a great area for an all inclusive beach holiday scheduling excursions from your hotel.

Belek is another beach location a good 45-minute car ride from the city center, hosts high-class all-inclusive 5 star hotel complexes on its beach. This is a favorite for families wanting to enjoy an all inclusive vacation on the beach. You can even enjoy a few golf games too. You can hire a driver to take you in to the Antalya City Center for the day to enjoy shopping, local sites and activities and restaurants.

Luxury Hotels

Alp pasa boutique hotel.

Location: Old Town | Kaleici

Alp Pasa is a luxury boutique hotel located in the Old Town close to the harbor. It has high end amenities and has a nice pool to sit and relax at in between outings.

Mediterra Art Hotel

Mediterra Art Hotel is an Ottoman style house in historical Kaleici. You can easily access local shops and cafes in the Old Town. The hotel hosts art exhibitions, an indoor restaurant, a courtyard, and a pool.

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

Location: Antalya | City Center

Ramada Plaza is located in the city center just outside of Kaleici. If you’re looking for a place that is has a little more privacy and quiet but still close to the buzz of Old Town, this is a great option for you.

Porto Bello Hotel & Spa

Location: Konyaalti Beach

If you’re looking for a terrific family friendly beach hotel, this is it! Porto Bello is located right across the street from Konyaalti beach and a short tram ride to the city center.

Rixos Downtown Antalya

Location: Close to Konyaalti Beach

A five-star experience overlooking the sea and the Taurus Mountains.  Easily enjoy a day at the beach or take a short 5-10 minute ride on the tram to check out the Old Town, shopping or arrange day tours from the hotel.  

Budget Hotels

Hotel la paloma.

Location: Kaleici

Hotel La Paloma is a cute little boutique hotel located in the heart of Kaleici. I’ve stayed here multiple times when visiting Antalya. It has simple amenities and the perfect location to enjoy the local cafes and shops and easily get to the tram for a trip to the Antalya Museum or Konyaalti beach.

Vintage Family Villa in Oldtown via Airbnb

I’ve stayed in this little gem in the old town. It is a private villa great for couples or a family. It has a private garden and will sleep up to 4 people. You can walk or easily access the tram to the beach, cafes, shops, restaurants and local sites.

Villa Tulipan

Located in historical Kaleici, you’ll be close to the harbor, shopping, tea gardens and café. Enjoy the view from the rooftop terrace of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus mountains.

Pacco Sea & City Hotel Spa

Location: Konyaalti

This little beach hotel is located right across from Konyaalti beach, one of the longest stretches of beach in the region. With personal service and a family friendly atmosphere, you’ll enjoy your beach holiday stay.

What to Do in Antalya

Antalya is a great location for a beach vacation, water activities in the sea or in nearby canyons, hiking, or exploring ancient ruins in and near the city. Below is a list of our favorite family friendly things to do in Antalya:

• Antalya Museum

Visit the area’s largest museum with the most important artifacts found in the Antalya Province. The Antalya Museum is a great stop to learn the history of the area before heading out to explore.

Local Beaches

The most popular beach along the Antalya coast is Konyaalti Beach, the longest stretch of pebble beach in the region. Be sure to take sandals to walk on the pebbles with as they can hurt your feet a bit to walk on. This is a fun beach with lots of activities in and out of the water. In the evening, you can visit a local café for drinks, tea, and playing a few games of okey.

Lara Beach is all sand and  is popular among Turks and foreigners alike.  It’s farther away from the city center but is still a nice beach buzzing with activity in the summer months.

See the Best Beaches in Antalya for more details on our favorite beaches in the area including Patara Beach .

Take a stroll through the streets of Kaleici or Old Town Antalya, down to the harbor. Hadrian’s Gate is one of the entrances into Kaleici that you can’t miss. You’ll see Ottoman style houses, cafés, shops and terrific views the closer you get the water. Once you arrive at the harbor, you can start your boat trip from there.

This is a favorite activity for us! For hiking enthusiasts, hike up to the mountain top ancient city of Termessos . There are amazing views and some a spectacular theater to see. It’s fairly strenuous getting up to the top of the mountain, but there is a well marked trail to get there. Termessos has a fascinating history as being one of the only cities that Alexander the Great couldn’t conquer because of its city walls and mountain top location.

Perge & Aspendos

Take a morning or afternoon and explore the ancient city of Perge and the Roman amphitheater in Aspendos , one of the best preserved architectural sites in the area. Take your time exploring the ancient ruins, mostly dating back to the Roman period.

Rafting & Canyoning at Koprulu Canyon

Go to Koprulu Canyon National Park and raft and swim in the turquoise blue water of the Kopru River. This is a fun all day activity where you’ll enjoy the cool water, 2000 year old Roman Oluklu Bridge, and get your blood pumping in the rapids, rappelling, and natural water slides.

Gulet Boat Trip

Depending on how much time you have, you can take a boat trip sailing along the Antalya Coast for a few hours up to all day. Enjoy lunch, swimming, waterfalls and some magnificent views sailing on the Mediterranean.

Tunek Tepe Mountain

Take a ride in a cable car up to the top of Tunek Tepe Mountain for some breathtaking views of Antalya and the Mediterranean coast.

You can start planning your Antalya travel and find out what to pack in our guides. Our Mediterranean Travel Guide gives you more information on day trips from Antalya or having a more extended stay.

Best 4 day Antalya Trip Itinerary

• Old Town Kaleici & the Harbor
• Visit Historical Sites: Perge, Aspendos & Side
• Visit Kursunlu Waterfall Nature Park
• Boat Trip: Demre & Sunken city of Kekova
• Trip to Cirali & Olympos Beach

Day 4 – Day Trips

• Water Day at Konyaalti Beach

Adventure Seekers:

• Hike to Termessos
• Rafting Koprulu Canyon
• Kas with Kids

If you’re up for a drive down the Turkish coast, don’t miss our route guides from Antalya to Ka s, Antalya to Cappadocia and Antalya to Alanya for all our tips for the best road trip. Finally, don’t forget to plan what you’re going to wear during your Antalya trip. Our packing guide will keep you in the loop of all the must-haves for your time on the Mediterranean.

Some links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission if you book through these links, and that helps keep this blog running .

Dania Demirci is your go-to travel expert for exploring Turkey and co-founder of Adventurefolio.com. With her extensive knowledge and personal experiences, Dania helps fellow travelers create the ultimate Turkish itineraries. From hidden gems to must-visit spots, she shares practical tips to empower you to confidently explore Turkey.

Antalya Travel Guide: Top 20 Things to Do in Antalya, Turkey

TtriNestled on the sun-kissed coastline of the Turkish Riviera, Antalya boasts a unique blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and modern sophistication. With its rugged mountains, golden beaches, and turquoise waters, it’s no wonder why this charming Mediterranean city has captured the hearts of travelers from around the globe.

From strolling through the cobblestone streets of the old town, to indulging in delicious Turkish cuisine, to exploring the ancient ruins of nearby sites, Antalya offers an unforgettable experience that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking for thrilling outdoor activities, a history buff wanting to uncover the secrets of the past, or simply seeking to unwind in a paradise-like setting, Antalya has got you covered.

Why Visit Antalya?

Of all the beach resorts in Turkey , Antalya is one of its most popular. Lying on its Mediterranean coast, it is part of the Turkish Riviera. However, despite its association with all-inclusive holidays , Antalya is a great place for cultural travellers.

With a pair of ancient city ruins nearby and a well-preserved Old Town, Antalya will surprise you.

So why not come and discover for yourself what makes Antalya one of the most beloved destinations in Turkey? The warm hospitality of the locals, the stunning natural scenery, and the rich cultural heritage are all waiting for you to experience and cherish.

Come check out our Antalya travel guide as we cover the best things to do in Antalya, Turkey.

Antalya City Guide: A Brief History Of Antalya, Turkey

From its roots in antiquity to its bustling present, let’s embark on a journey through time, exploring the history of this captivating city.

Antiquity Calls: The Birth of Antalya

Founded in the 2nd century BC by King Attalos II of Pergamon, Antalya, originally known as Attaleia, was poised to become a major naval base, securing its place as a crucial player in the Mediterranean trade routes. The Romans, Byzantines, and Seljuks, each left their mark on the city, contributing to a cultural and architectural heritage that spans millennia. The remnants of Roman rule, including Hadrian’s Gate and the ancient city of Aspendos, offer a glimpse into the past where gladiators once entertained and civilizations thrived.

Byzantine and Seljuk Era: A Blend of Cultures

As the Byzantine Empire took control, Antalya became a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architectural styles. The city’s strategic importance continued under the Seljuks, who adorned it with Islamic art and architecture, enriching its landscape with mosques and madrasas. The Yivli Minare Mosque, with its fluted minaret soaring into the sky, stands as a testament to the city’s diverse historical influences.

Ottoman Empire to Modernity: The Evolution Continues

With the arrival of the Ottomans, Antalya entered a new chapter, integrating further into the vast empire that stretched across three continents. The Ottomans fortified the city, leaving behind a legacy that includes the historic Kaleiçi district, with its narrow cobbled streets, Ottoman houses, and the ancient city walls. Today, Kaleiçi is the heart of Antalya, a place where the past and present coexist, offering a maze of shops, cafes, and boutique hotels, all telling stories of yesteryears.

A Glimpse into Antalya Today

In the 20th century, Antalya transformed from a picturesque port city into one of Turkey’s premier tourist destinations. The city’s natural beauty, combined with its historical richness, draws millions of visitors each year. Modern developments and resorts dot the coastline, yet Antalya retains its historical charm, with archaeological sites and museums offering a window into its ancient soul. The Düden Waterfalls and the pristine beaches of Lara and Konyaaltı invite nature lovers, while the Antalya Museum showcases the region’s archaeological treasures.

Antalya Top Attractions and Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Antalya is a fantastic destination in Turkey. However, before heading to the beach, take a day trip out to the Ancient City of Perga . While the ruins date back to Greek times, people have been living in the area since the Bronze Age.

Perga garnered a mention in the Bible. In the Acts of the Apostles, St. Paul and St. Barnabas preached the gospel in Perga in 46 AD. Its citizens abandoned the city in 1000 AD, shortly after the founding of the Seljuk Empire.

Throughout this site, you’ll find many pillars, as well as reliefs featuring depictions of everyday life. Note that there is a lack of shade at this site. As such, be sure to bring a broad-rimmed hat, or a parasol to keep the sun off you.

Distinct History

Still in the mood to explore ancient ruins? Head next to the remains of Termessos . Perched high atop a mountain 30 kilometres outside of Antalya, this city infuriated Alexander the Great. Back in the 4th century BC, the legendary leader was conquering everything in sight.

In modern-day Turkey , only one city eluded his grasp: Termessos. A Pisidian city that sat atop a high mountain plateau, its superior positioning made a surprise attack impossible. He contemplated an assault, but thought better of it – it would have been a colossal waste of human lives.

Even the Romans didn’t dare to take Termessos by force. In the 1st century BC, they reached a deal with the city-state. In it, they guaranteed their autonomy. At an unknown date in the future, nature did what no army could: An earthquake wrecked their aqueduct. With their water supply destroyed, Termesso’s citizenry opted to abandon their home.

More Attractions

Today, the lack of past warfare has preserved Termesso remarkably. Its walls, gymnasium, theatre, temples, and other structures are in excellent condition. Even so, do respect your surroundings as you explore.

Back in Antalya, be sure to spend a half-day exploring Kaleiçi . This is the old city centre of Antalya – as such, it contains buildings dating back to Roman times. In addition, you’ll find buildings from Byzantine, Seljuk, and the Ottoman era.

As you walk its streets, you’ll find many museums, mosques, and old residences that ooze character. Some locals still live here, but entrepreneurs have converted most buildings into shops, restaurants, and hotels. Even so, keep this in mind when leaving a bar for your accommodation at night. By being quiet, you’ll help improve the sustainability of tourism in Antalya.

If you’re looking for a marquee attraction in Kaleici, make time for the Antalya Museum . It protects artifacts recovered from archaeological digs, as well as works of art from different Turkish periods. 5,000 items are on the floor at any given time, but it also has more than 25,000 items in storage.

As you wander its galleries, keep your eyes open for many amazing sights. These include things like the ancient bone relics of Saint Nicholas, traditional musical instruments, and marvellous sculptures.

Other Cultural Attractions: Trip to Antalya, Turkey

As you walk through the streets of Kaleici, be sure to stroll under Hadrian’s Gate . This Roman-era construction once served as a gate into the city in Roman times. However, it had been obscured by the city wall in later times.

It was uncovered as the old city wall was deconstructed in the 1950s. After a restoration effort immediately thereafter, it regained its former prominence. Thanks to its remarkable preservation, it makes for an excellent photo op.

Want to get away from the beaches for a day? Spend an afternoon at the Lower Düden Waterfalls . While gorgeous, it is not possible to swim in the gorge. This downside is the only one, though. Its beauty, plus the fact you can go behind the falls, makes them worth a visit.

Let’s face it, though – you’re probably visiting Antalya for its beaches. Start by grabbing a sun lounger on Konyaaltı Beach . It starts at Antalya’s west end and stretches six kilometres, ending at the base of high cliffs. This beach is a sociable place, and is a smart choice for families, as it is patrolled by lifeguards.

If you’re looking for a place that is drop-dead gorgeous, make Kaputas Beach your destination. Reaching it requires a degree of physical fitness , as it is 200 steps straight down. Once you’re at the base, though, you’ll be on a beach with golden sand and cliffs all around.

Top 20 Things To Do in Antalya, Turkey For Visitors

For those planning a visit, here’s a curated list of the top 20 things to do in Antalya, ensuring a trip filled with memorable experiences.

1. Explore the Old Town (Kaleiçi)

Wander through the winding streets of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic district, where ancient architecture meets vibrant bazaars. This area is full of beautifully restored Ottoman houses, now serving as boutique hotels, shops, and cafes. Don’t miss the iconic Hadrian’s Gate, a triumphal arch that dates back to 130 AD. Kaleiçi offers a picturesque escape into the city’s rich past, with stunning views of the marina.

2. Visit Antalya Museum

The Antalya Museum is one of Turkey’s most important archaeology museums, showcasing artifacts from the region’s many ancient cities. Its halls are filled with statues, mosaics, and other treasures from Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. The museum’s beautifully curated exhibits provide a deeper understanding of the Mediterranean’s historical significance. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in the ancient world.

3. Take a Dip in Düden Waterfalls

The Düden Waterfalls, split into upper and lower sections, offer a refreshing retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The Lower Düden Waterfalls plunge directly into the Mediterranean Sea, creating a breathtaking spectacle best viewed from a boat. The Upper Düden Waterfalls, surrounded by a lush park, provide a serene picnic spot. The soothing sound of cascading water and the cool mist create an invigorating atmosphere.

4. Relax on Konyaaltı Beach

Stretching beneath the stunning Taurus Mountains, Konyaaltı Beach is one of Antalya’s premier spots for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. This pebble beach offers crystal-clear waters and ample amenities, including loungers, umbrellas, and beachside cafes. The beach park behind Konyaaltı is perfect for families, with its playgrounds, gardens, and walking paths. Watching the sunset over the mountains from this beach is an unforgettable experience.

5. Discover Aspendos Theatre

Visit the ancient city of Aspendos to see one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Built in the 2nd century AD, this magnificent structure could seat up to 15,000 spectators. Today, it hosts performances and festivals, bringing ancient drama to life. A visit to Aspendos offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman engineering and entertainment.

6. Wander Through the Ruins of Perge

The ancient city of Perge, just a short drive from Antalya, was once one of the most prosperous cities of the ancient world. Explore the well-preserved streets, baths, and an impressive agora where once Alexander the Great marched. Perge’s stadium is remarkably intact, evoking the city’s past athletic glories. It’s a fascinating day trip for those eager to walk through history.

7. Experience the Antalya Aquarium

The Antalya Aquarium is one of the largest aquarium complexes in the world, featuring a 131-meter long underwater tunnel. It’s home to thousands of species of sea creatures, offering an immersive glimpse into underwater life. The aquarium also includes the world’s biggest tropical reptile house. It’s an educational and entertaining destination for visitors of all ages.

8. Soak Up the Sun at Lara Beach

Lara Beach, known for its soft sands and luxury resorts, is a slice of paradise in Antalya. This beach is ideal for those looking to indulge in seaside luxury, with many hotels offering private stretches of sand. Watersports, beach bars, and live entertainment are abundant here. Lara Beach is also famous for its themed hotels, including a replica of the Titanic.

9. Take a Cable Car Ride to Tahtalı Mountain

The Olympos Teleferik takes you on a breathtaking journey from the beach to the summit of Tahtalı Mountain. The cable car ride offers panoramic views of the coastline, mountains, and forest. At the top, you can enjoy hiking trails or simply marvel at the vista. It’s a unique experience that combines sea, sky, and mountain.

10. Stroll Along the Antalya Promenade

The Antalya Promenade, stretching along the cliffs overlooking the sea, is perfect for leisurely walks, jogs, or bike rides. This scenic path offers unobstructed views of the Mediterranean and access to various beaches and parks. Along the way, you’ll find cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the view. The promenade is especially lively in the evenings, as locals and tourists alike come to enjoy the sunset.

11. Explore the Ancient City of Olympos

Hidden in a valley near the coast, the ruins of Olympos are part of a national park known for its natural beauty and historical significance. This ancient Lycian city, dating back to the 2nd century BC, is enveloped by a dense forest and flanked by a beautiful beach. Explore the ruins, including a Roman theatre and Byzantine basilica, before relaxing on the beach. Olympos is also near the Chimaera, eternal flames that have been burning on a mountainside for thousands of years.

12. Enjoy the Nightlife in Antalya

Antalya’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with something for everyone. From beach clubs and rooftop bars to traditional Turkish taverns and live music venues, the city comes alive at night. The Old Town (Kaleiçi) is particularly popular, offering a mix of historical ambiance and modern entertainment. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink with stunning views, Antalya’s nightlife won’t disappoint.

13. Visit the Suna & İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum

This museum, set in a beautifully restored traditional house in Kaleiçi, offers insights into Antalya’s history and culture. The Suna & İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum displays an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and folkloric items. The museum’s courtyard is a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of the Old Town. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s past and the lifestyles of its inhabitants.

14. Go Rafting in Köprülü Canyon

For adventure seekers, a day trip to Köprülü Canyon National Park offers thrilling white-water rafting experiences. The Köprüçay River, flowing through the canyon, provides rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. Surrounded by a beautiful national park, it’s also a fantastic spot for hiking and picnicking. Rafting down this river is a refreshing escape into nature, offering both excitement and stunning scenery.

15. Take a Jeep Safari to Taurus Mountains

Explore the rugged landscapes of the Taurus Mountains on a thrilling jeep safari. This adventure takes you through pine forests, mountain rivers, and traditional villages. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to learn about local customs and taste traditional Turkish cuisine. It’s an exhilarating way to discover the natural beauty surrounding Antalya.

16. Relax at the Karaalioğlu Park

Karaalioğlu Park is one of Antalya’s largest and most beautiful parks, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains. The park is filled with colorful flower beds, towering palm trees, and shaded walking paths. It’s home to the historic Hıdırlık Tower, a Roman-era structure that adds to the park’s charm. Karaalioğlu Park is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility.

17. Discover the Land of Legends Theme Park

The Land of Legends Theme Park is a world-class entertainment complex that combines a water park, aquarium, and amusement park. It offers thrilling rides, water slides, and shows for visitors of all ages. The theme park is designed to immerse guests in a fantasy world with its elaborate decorations and innovative attractions. It’s an ideal destination for families looking for a day of fun and excitement.

18. Explore the Yivli Minare

The Yivli Minare, or Fluted Minaret, is an iconic symbol of Antalya and a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture. Standing at 38 meters tall, this 13th-century minaret is part of a mosque complex that includes a madrasah and a tomb. Visitors can admire its intricate tile work and striking design, which reflects the city’s historical Islamic influence. The Yivli Minare is situated in Kaleiçi, making it easily accessible while exploring the Old Town.

19. Shop at Antalya’s Bazaars

Antalya’s bazaars offer a colorful and lively shopping experience. The Old Town is home to several markets where you can find everything from traditional Turkish textiles and jewelry to spices and souvenirs. The most famous is the Kaleiçi Bazaar, a maze of shops and stalls selling handcrafted goods. Bargaining is expected, so be ready to haggle for the best price.

20. Visit the Sandland Sculpture Festival

Sandland is an impressive open-air sand sculpture festival held annually in Antalya. Artists from around the world create massive sculptures using only sand and water, based on a particular theme each year. The detail and creativity of these sculptures are astounding, making Sandland a unique artistic attraction. It’s an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages, especially at night when the sculptures are lit up.

What To Eat and Drink in Antalya, Turkey

Antalya, located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine.

Here’s a guide to the must-try foods and drinks that encapsulate the essence of Antalya’s vibrant food scene.

Must-Try Foods in Antalya

Begin with gözleme, a traditional Turkish flatbread, rolled and filled with ingredients like spinach, cheese, or potatoes, then cooked on a griddle. It’s simple, savory, and utterly delicious.

Antalya’s version of the humble bean salad, piyaz, is unique, made with tahini (sesame paste), making it creamier and richer than its counterparts. It’s typically garnished with hard-boiled egg and served as a refreshing side dish.

3. Grilled Fish and Seafood

Given its coastal location, Antalya offers an abundance of fresh fish and seafood. From sea bream (çipura) to bluefish (lufer) and a variety of seafood meze, the grilled delights are a must-try, often enjoyed with a side of crisp vegetables and lemon.

4. Şiş Kebap and Döner

No visit to Turkey is complete without indulging in its kebabs. In Antalya, the skewered şiş kebap and the rotating delight of döner offer succulent tastes of marinated meat, served with lavash (flatbread), rice, or bulgur.

For dessert, künefe is a heavenly treat. This warm pastry is made with kadayıf (thin, shredded dough), filled with cheese, soaked in sweet syrup, and typically served with a sprinkle of pistachios and a dollop of clotted cream.

Another sweet indulgence is baklava, a decadent dessert of layered phyllo pastry, filled with nuts and drenched in syrup. Each bite is a perfect blend of crunch and sweetness.

Must-Try Drinks in Antalya

7. turkish coffee.

Experience the rich, aromatic tradition of Turkish coffee, served in small cups with a thick, velvety texture and a robust flavor, often accompanied by a piece of Turkish delight.

Ayran, a refreshing yogurt drink, is perfect for cooling down on a hot day. It’s a simple blend of yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt, and it complements the rich Turkish flavors wonderfully.

Often referred to as the national drink, raki is an anise-flavored spirit typically consumed with water and ice. It’s a social drink, usually enjoyed with meze and great company.

10. Turkish Tea

Served in a tulip-shaped glass, Turkish tea is a staple in Antalya. Whether you prefer it strong or light, enjoying a cup of tea is a ritual that offers a moment of relaxation and reflection.

Top Restaurants In Antalya, Turkey

From traditional Turkish eateries to fine dining establishments offering international cuisine, here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the top restaurants in Antalya, where you can indulge in both local flavors and global dishes.

1. 7 Mehmet

A landmark in Antalya’s dining scene, 7 Mehmet offers a wide range of traditional Turkish dishes with a focus on meat and kebabs. The restaurant’s setting, with views overlooking the Mediterranean and the Taurus Mountains, complements its rich culinary offerings.

2. Vanilla Lounge

Located in the heart of Kaleiçi, Vanilla Lounge is known for its cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu that includes Turkish favorites, Mediterranean dishes, and international cuisine. It’s a great spot for those looking for a relaxed dining experience with a variety of options.

3. Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

For those seeking a sophisticated dining experience, Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant in Kaleiçi offers exquisite dishes with an emphasis on Mediterranean and international flavors. The elegant setting and attentive service make it perfect for special occasions.

Specializing in seafood, Rokka is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Located near the marina, the restaurant serves fresh fish and seafood dishes with a Turkish twist, accompanied by stunning sea views.

5. Mermerli Restaurant

Situated next to the Mermerli Beach in the old town, this restaurant is beloved for its traditional Turkish cuisine and seafood specialties. The terrace offers a beautiful view of the Mediterranean, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner.

6. Sim Restaurant

Sim Restaurant, located in a historic building in Kaleiçi, offers a fusion of traditional Turkish cuisine with modern culinary techniques. The menu features seasonal ingredients and local flavors, presented in an artful manner.

7. Ayar Meyhanesi

For a taste of local nightlife and traditional meyhane culture, Ayar Meyhanesi is the place to go. Enjoy mezes (appetizers), fresh seafood, and raki in a lively atmosphere filled with music and joy.

8. Fisilti Cafe Garden

A hidden gem in Kaleiçi, Fisilti Cafe Garden provides a tranquil garden setting where guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The menu includes both Turkish and international options, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

9. Arma Restaurant

Arma Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a spectacular view of the Antalya marina. Specializing in Mediterranean cuisine, the restaurant serves beautifully plated dishes in an elegant waterfront setting.

10. Can Can

A favorite among locals for breakfast and brunch, Can Can in the Lara district offers a delightful spread of traditional Turkish breakfast items, from cheeses and olives to eggs and pastries. It’s a bustling spot known for its generous portions and homey feel.

Tours For Visitors To Antalya, Turkey

From historical explorations to adrenaline-pumping adventures, here’s a list of tours that will enrich your visit to this enchanting part of Turkey.

1. Old Town (Kaleiçi) Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in the heart of Antalya by strolling through the narrow lanes of Kaleiçi, the city’s historic old town. This guided tour offers insights into the area’s rich history, from Roman times through the Ottoman era, including stops at iconic landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and the Yivli Minaret.

2. Perge, Aspendos, and Side Day Trip

Discover the ancient wonders surrounding Antalya with a day trip to Perge, Aspendos, and Side. Explore well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Perge ancient city, the Aspendos Theatre known for its incredible acoustics, and the picturesque ruins of Side, nestled by the sea.

3. Boat Tours Along the Turquoise Coast

Take to the sea with a boat tour that showcases the stunning coastline known as the Turkish Riviera. Spend the day swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves, and sunbathing on deck, with options ranging from leisurely cruises to exhilarating speedboat adventures.

4. Düden Waterfalls Visit

Experience the natural beauty of Antalya with a tour to the Düden Waterfalls, where you can witness the spectacular sight of water plunging into the Mediterranean Sea. Some tours offer the opportunity to explore the hidden cave behind the falls.

5. Taurus Mountains Jeep Safari

Embark on an off-road adventure into the Taurus Mountains, where you can explore rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and panoramic views that stretch to the coast. This tour often includes stops for swimming, a traditional Turkish lunch, and opportunities to learn about local life.

6. Köprülü Canyon Rafting Experience

For adrenaline seekers, a rafting trip on the Köprülü Canyon’s rapids offers a thrilling way to cool down and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Suitable for all levels, including beginners, this tour combines adventure with breathtaking scenery.

7. Antalya City Tour with Cable Car Ride to Tunektepe

Get a bird’s eye view of Antalya with a city tour that includes a ride on the Tunektepe Cable Car. Ascend to the hilltop for panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean, and explore other city highlights with the guidance of an expert.

8. Olympos Cable Car Ride to Tahtalı Mountain

For unparalleled views, take the Olympos Cable Car to the summit of Tahtalı Mountain. Standing over 2,365 meters above sea level, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of the coast, the Taurus Mountains, and on clear days, the distant Olympos ruins.

9. Antalya Aquarium with Optional City Tour

A visit to one of the world’s largest aquarium complexes offers an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. See thousands of sea creatures, walk through the world’s biggest underwater tunnel, and optionally combine your visit with a tour of Antalya’s city highlights.

10. Traditional Turkish Night

Experience Turkish culture firsthand with an evening of folk dances, music, and a feast of local cuisine. This tour offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural traditions of Turkey, making for an unforgettable night.

Antalya Accommodations Guide: Hotels, Guesthouses and Hostels

Here’s your comprehensive guide to where to stay in Antalya, ensuring you find the perfect spot to rest your head after a day of exploration.

Luxury Hotels

1. rixos downtown antalya.

Set against the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains and amidst lush gardens, Rixos Downtown offers a blend of city convenience and beachfront relaxation. With its private beach, multiple swimming pools, and a selection of fine dining options, it epitomizes luxury.

2. Akra Hotel

Perched on the cliffs of Antalya, Akra Hotel is a haven of wellness and sophistication. Guests can enjoy breathtaking Mediterranean views, an extensive spa and wellness center, four swimming pools, and dining experiences that feature organic and local produce.

Boutique Hotels

3. tuvana hotel.

Tuvana Hotel, located in the heart of the historic Kaleiçi district, is a charming boutique hotel set in a restored Ottoman mansion. Its rooms are beautifully decorated with Turkish textiles and antiques, offering a plunge into history without sacrificing comfort.

4. Puding Marina Residence

Just a stone’s throw from the marina and Antalya’s old town, this boutique hotel is a peaceful retreat with a unique blend of modern and traditional Turkish design. It features an outdoor pool, a lush garden, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Mid-Range Hotels

5. hotel su & aqualand.

Offering stylish and colorful accommodation, Hotel SU provides guests with direct access to Aqualand water park and a private beach. It’s an ideal choice for families and couples looking for fun and relaxation.

6. Aspen Hotel

A cozy retreat in the historic Kaleiçi district, Aspen Hotel charms with its traditional architecture, an inviting pool, and a courtyard garden. It’s a short walk from Antalya’s key attractions and offers a peaceful environment.

Budget-Friendly Options

7. role street hostel.

For travelers on a tight budget, Role Street Hostel offers a vibrant, artsy atmosphere with both dormitory-style and private rooms. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a hub for backpackers looking to explore Antalya and meet fellow travelers.

8. Kaleiçi Hostel

Nestled within the old town, this hostel offers affordable accommodation with easy access to the beach, historical sites, and nightlife. It’s perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Antalya’s rich culture without breaking the bank.

Guesthouses

9. sabah pansiyon.

Located in Kaleiçi, Sabah Pansiyon is a family-run guesthouse known for its warm hospitality, beautiful garden, and comfortable rooms. It offers a quiet escape with easy access to local attractions.

10. White Garden Pansion

With its traditional white-washed walls and wooden accents, White Garden Pansion captures the essence of Mediterranean charm. Guests can enjoy a lovely courtyard, a rooftop terrace with old town views, and easy access to Antalya’s historic sites.

Specialty Lodging

11. the marmara antalya.

For those looking for a unique stay, The Marmara Antalya offers a revolving loft building, providing changing sea and mountain views. Its modern design, private beach, and infinity pool make it a standout choice.

12. Crowne Plaza Antalya

With its rooms facing the Mediterranean, the Crowne Plaza combines comfort with breathtaking views. The hotel caters to both leisure and business travelers, featuring a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and extensive meeting facilities.

Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey

Here are ten day trips from Antalya that promise adventure, history, and natural beauty.

1. Aspendos, Perge, and Side

Step back in time with a trip to these ancient cities, where Roman theatres, Hellenistic gates, and Temple ruins tell tales of old. Aspendos boasts one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Perge offers a glimpse into an ancient Hellenistic city with its impressive colonnaded streets. Side charms visitors with its scenic location by the sea, ancient ruins, and bustling marketplaces.

2. Demre, Myra, and Kekova

Explore the town of Demre, where the Church of St. Nicholas, the original Santa Claus, is located. In Myra, marvel at the well-preserved Lycian rock tombs and the grand Roman theatre. A boat trip to Kekova reveals submerged ruins of ancient towns, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

3. Pamukkale and Hierapolis

Witness the surreal beauty of Pamukkale’s terraces, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters creating snow-white travertine pools. Adjacent to this natural wonder is the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can explore Roman baths, a well-preserved theatre, and a vast necropolis. Don’t miss the chance to swim in the Antique Pool, scattered with ancient marble columns. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a perfect combination of natural and historical attractions.

4. Taurus Mountains and Tazi Canyon

Embark on an adventure into the Taurus Mountains, offering breathtaking landscapes, traditional villages, and a glimpse into rural Turkish life. Tazi Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon” of Turkey, presents dramatic vistas perfect for photography enthusiasts. Activities such as hiking, zip-lining, or simply enjoying a Turkish tea amidst the mountains are available. The region’s flora and fauna add an extra layer of wonder to this natural escape.

5. Koprulu Canyon National Park

For those seeking thrills, Koprulu Canyon National Park offers white-water rafting on the Kopru River, surrounded by a beautiful forested national park. The park also has hiking trails and historic ruins, including a Roman bridge that spans the canyon. The combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and serene natural beauty makes for an unforgettable day out. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

6. Saklikent Gorge and Patara Beach

Saklikent Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world, provides a cool retreat on hot summer days with its rushing mountain streams. Explore the gorge on a guided tour that involves walking on boardwalks and wading through water. Afterwards, relax on the pristine sands of Patara Beach, known for its length and soft, golden sand. This day trip is an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation.

7. Kas and Kaputas Beach

The charming town of Kas, with its bohemian atmosphere, offers delightful shops, cafes, and ancient ruins. Take a boat tour to explore the sunken city of Kekova or dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Kaputas Beach, nestled between dramatic cliffs, is a short drive from Kas and offers one of the most photographed spots on the Turquoise Coast. Kas provides a more laid-back alternative to Antalya’s bustling scene.

8. Olympos and Chimera Flames

Discover the ancient ruins of Olympos, set in a picturesque valley leading to a beautiful beach. In the evening, venture to the Chimera Flames, natural gas fires that have been burning on a rocky hillside for thousands of years. The combination of historical exploration, beach relaxation, and the mystical sight of eternal flames offers a unique experience. Olympos appeals to history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

9. Ulupinar and Phaselis

Enjoy a meal by the water in the village of Ulupinar, where restaurants are set above trout streams in a lush forest. Afterward, visit the ancient coastal city of Phaselis, where ruins lie amidst pine trees and three harbors. Phaselis offers a chance to explore ancient history and take a dip in the sea from one of its beautiful beaches. This day trip is perfect for those who appreciate tranquility, natural beauty, and archaeological sites.

10. Termessos and Duden Waterfalls

Perched high in the mountains, the ancient city of Termessos offers spectacular views and well-preserved ruins, including a stunning theatre. Unlike other ancient sites, Termessos provides a sense of discovery among its less frequented ruins. After exploring, cool off at the Duden Waterfalls, a peaceful natural oasis on the outskirts of Antalya. This day trip combines the awe of ancient civilizations with the refreshing beauty of nature.

Antalya Transportation Guide

Here’s a comprehensive guide to transportation options in Antalya, designed to help you explore the city and its surroundings with ease.

Getting to Antalya

• Antalya Airport (AYT): Located approximately 13 km northeast of the city center, Antalya Airport is well-connected to major cities across Europe and the Middle East, with increasing direct flights from other regions. The airport serves as the main gateway for travelers to the city and the wider region.
• Intercity Buses: Antalya’s main bus terminal, Otogar, hosts numerous bus companies providing services to and from cities across Turkey. It’s an efficient and economical way to reach Antalya if you’re already exploring the country.
• Driving: For those coming from other parts of Turkey, Antalya is accessible via well-maintained highways. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to stop along the scenic routes at your own pace.

Getting Around Antalya

Public buses.

• Municipal Buses: Operated by Antalya Ulaşım, these buses cover extensive routes throughout the city and to nearby attractions, including beaches and archaeological sites. They’re an affordable way to get around, with payment accepted via the Antalyakart, a rechargeable travel card.
• Antray and Nostalgic Tram: The Antray light rail system connects the airport and Expo center with the city center, while the Nostalgic Tram offers a scenic route along the coastline from the Museum to Zerdalilik. Both are convenient and enjoyable ways to explore major attractions.
• Taxis: Available throughout the city, taxis in Antalya are a convenient option for direct routes to your destination. They’re metered, with fares relatively affordable, but it’s always good to have an idea of the distance to your destination.

Car and Scooter Rentals

• Rentals: Renting a car or scooter gives you the freedom to explore Antalya and its surroundings at your leisure. Various rental agencies are located at the airport and within the city. Be sure to have an international driving permit if you’re from outside Turkey.
• Bike Sharing: Antalya offers a public bike-sharing system, ANTBIS, with stations across the city. It’s a fun and healthy way to explore the parks and coastal paths, especially around Konyaaltı Beach.
• On Foot: Many of Antalya’s attractions, particularly in the Old Town (Kaleiçi) area, are best explored on foot. Walking allows you to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this historic city at your own pace.

Tips for Navigating Antalya

• Antalyakart: Invest in an Antalyakart, available at kiosks and ticket machines, for convenient travel on buses and trams.
• Navigation Apps: Use navigation apps like Google Maps for real-time public transport schedules and walking routes.
• Taxi Apps: Consider using taxi apps for secure and hassle-free rides, especially late at night.
• Ask for Help: Locals are generally friendly and helpful if you need directions or advice on the best transportation options.

Where To Visit After Your Trip To Antalya?

After soaking up the sun and exploring the historical riches of Antalya, extend your adventure to discover more of what Turkey has to offer. From the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia to the bustling streets of Istanbul, Turkey is a land of contrasts, where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. Here’s a list of destinations that promise to enrich your travel experience with their unique beauty, history, and culture.

1. Cappadocia

Marvel at the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, ancient cave churches, and hot air balloon rides at sunrise. Explore the Goreme Open Air Museum to see Byzantine frescoes, wander through the underground cities of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu, and enjoy the unique experience of staying in a cave hotel. Cappadocia’s moon-like terrain and rich history make it an unforgettable destination. Don’t miss the chance to see this magical landscape from above, making for the perfect photo opportunity.

2. Istanbul

Straddling two continents, Istanbul is a city where East meets West, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and cuisine. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar and Spice Market for unique souvenirs and flavors. Istanbul’s vibrant street life, historic architecture, and stunning Bosphorus views will captivate your senses.

3. Pamukkale

Witness the natural wonder of Pamukkale, known for its terraces of mineral-rich thermal waters cascading down white travertine slopes. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, take a dip in the Antique Pool amidst Roman ruins, and watch the sunset over the calcite cliffs. Pamukkale offers a blend of natural beauty and ancient history that is both relaxing and fascinating. It’s a place where you can walk through ancient ruins and swim in thermal pools in the same day.

Step back in time with a visit to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Explore the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ephesus provides insight into Roman urban life and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The nearby town of Selçuk offers additional attractions, including the Ephesus Archaeological Museum and the Basilica of St. John.

Relax in the chic resort town of Bodrum, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and the imposing Castle of St. Peter. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, explore the ancient ruins of Halicarnassus, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the marina. Bodrum combines history, luxury, and a laid-back seaside vibe, making it a perfect coastal getaway. It’s also a great base for exploring nearby islands and underwater archaeological sites.

Discover the natural beauty and ancient ruins around Fethiye, from the serene blue waters of Ölüdeniz Beach to the ghost town of Kayaköy. Paraglide off Babadağ Mountain for breathtaking views, sail the turquoise coast on a gulet cruise, and hike the Lycian Way. Fethiye’s mix of adventure, history, and stunning scenery offers something for everyone. The area is also known for its fresh seafood, served in waterfront restaurants.

Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Konya, the home of the whirling dervishes and the final resting place of the poet Rumi. Visit the Mevlana Museum to learn about the Sufi mystic’s teachings, explore the Seljuk architecture, and experience a Sema ceremony. Konya offers a deep dive into Turkey’s spiritual and cultural heritage, making it a profound and enlightening experience. It’s a city where history and faith are intricately woven into the fabric of everyday life.

Wander through the narrow streets of Mardin, a city perched on a hill overlooking the Mesopotamian plains, known for its distinctive sandstone architecture. Visit the Syriac Monastery of Deyrulzafaran, explore ancient madrasahs, and enjoy the panoramic views. Mardin’s rich cultural tapestry, influenced by many civilizations, is evident in its art, architecture, and cuisine. The city provides a unique glimpse into the diverse cultures that have shaped this region.

Explore Trabzon, a historic city on the Black Sea coast, once a key trade hub on the Silk Road. Visit the Sumela Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff face in the Altındere Valley National Park, and explore the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon with its stunning frescoes. Trabzon’s lush landscapes, rich history, and unique regional dishes offer a different side of Turkey. It serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Eastern Black Sea region.

10. Antakya (Hatay)

Dive into the multicultural heritage of Antakya (Hatay), an ancient city with a history that spans millennia. Explore the Hatay Archaeology Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of Roman mosaics, wander through the old bazaars, and visit the Church of St. Peter, said to be one of the earliest Christian houses of worship. Antakya’s cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences, making it a gastronomic delight. The city, with its rich historical layers and warm hospitality, offers a warm welcome to explorers.

Antalya Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

Antalya is a city that has it all: beautiful beaches, rich history, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife. From exploring ancient ruins to lounging on the beach, there’s something for everyone in this Turkish paradise. The city’s picturesque old town, stunning waterfalls, and bustling bazaars are just a few of the many reasons to visit Antalya.

With a wealth of activities, sights, and experiences to discover, Antalya is a destination that’s sure to captivate and inspire. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a beach lover, Antalya is an unforgettable destination that’s not to be missed.

Ode To Antalya

Amidst the shores of turquoise blue, Lies a city with wonders anew, Antalya, the city of Sun, With a charm that can never be undone.

The old town and the harbor so grand, Leave memories that forever stand, Walking down the cobbled streets, The city’s history one can meet.

With mountains as the backdrop high, Nature here seems to touch the sky, From Düden Waterfalls to Kursunlu, The beauty of Antalya is all but few.

The beach stretches as far as the eye can see , The Mediterranean waves so calming and free, Lara Beach and Konyaalti, The perfect places to soak up the city’s beauty.

Antalya, the city of allure, The memories here forever secure, This charming city of sun and sea, Is where your heart will long to be.

Antalya Itinerary: 3, 4, 5 or 7 Day Options

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Antalya is one of our favorite regions in Turkey because it offers so much to see and do. It’s the perfect combination of historical landmarks, beaches, incredible natural beauty, hiking experiences, and more.

With so much to see and do, it can be a challenge putting together your Antalya itinerary, especially as the attractions you see will largely be determined by how long you have to spend and who you are traveling with.

To help you out, we’ve listed how we would spend 3, 4, 5, or 7 days in Antalya and our preferred route, so you can make planning your trip to Antalya an easy breezy process.

Planning a trip to Antalya last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Antalya:

• Airport Shuttle From Antalya Airport To City Center (Best way to get into town!)

Here are our recommended tours in Antalya:

• City Tour w/ Cable Car, Boat Trip and Waterfall (A must-do In Antalya!)
• Suluada Island Boat Trip (Secluded island for swimming and snorkeling)
• Traditional Turkish Bath with Massages
• Taurus Mountains Full-Day Jeep Safari (Great for exploring off the beaten path)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Antalya:

• Sky Kamer Hotel Antalya (Has seaview rooms in the historic center!)
• Megasaray Westbeach Antalya (All-inclusive resort right on the beach!)
• Hostel Vauge (Most famous hostel in Antalya!)

How many days is Enough For Antalya?

The amount of time you spend in Antalya will largely depend on how much time you have on your vacation. 

If you’re planning an extended Turkey itinerary and visiting other parts of the country, you can see the highlights of Antalya in three days.

However, if you have more time at your disposal, do use it. We can think of enough attractions and activities to fill your diary for a week here, maybe even more.

But we would say that the optimal amount of time to spend in Antalya is 5-7 days, which gives you enough time to see the highlights of Antalya and take a couple of day trips.

Where to Stay In Antalya?

Before we get into the attractions and how to organize your Antalya itinerary, let’s quickly discuss the best neighborhood to stay in Antalya to maximize the use of your vacation time.

There are two places in Antalya you might consider staying. The first is the Old Town, which is ideal for first-time visitors, solo travelers, and those traveling on a budget.

The Old Town is the beating heart of Antalya and it’s well connected to many of the top attractions, such as the Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya Clock Tower, and some of the best dining options.

The second place you want to consider is along the coast. There are many world-class beach resorts in Antalya and they are not all located in the city of Antalya.

What many people don’t realize is that Antalya is a province, and has a city named Antalya after the province – I know, confusing right? 

So if you opt for a beach hotel make sure you have booked one in Antalya city OR you’ve hired a car. If you hire a car, it doesn’t really matter which hotel you book.

The Best Antalya Itinerary for 3 Days

We mentioned earlier that three days is the minimum amount of time you need in Antalya, and this is how we would spend those three days…

Day 1: Old Town Antalya

We recommend you spent your first day exploring the Old Town of Antalya and the attractions within Antalya City itself. After that, we can go and explore further afield.

Stop 1: Tünektepe Teleferik (Antalya Cable Car)

Perhaps the biggest attraction in Antalya is the cable car to the summit of Tünektepe, which sits at 1706 meters above sea level.

The cable car takes you to a viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Antalya and the Mediterranean Ocean.

Before making your way back down, enjoy the restaurants with a view. You have your choice between a Pizza House, Tea House, or a traditional restaurant in Antalya , each offering incredible views from the building.

Or simply get an ice cream if you’re visiting during the summer. It only takes 10 minutes to reach the top (and back down again) so it’s something you can do either at the beginning or end of the day.

Stop 2: Walk Around the Old Town and Old Roman Harbor

The Old Town in Antalya is simply stunning. Also known as Kaleiçi , the historic center brings Antalya’s rich heritage to life.

 The historical city center, called “Kaleiçi” (or Old Town in English), sheds light on the cultural heritage of Antalya, where you can feel the spiritual and historical influences on the city.

Here you will find centuries old buildings and quaint cobbled streets, with mosques and parks around every corner. Simply wandering around the town is inspiring in itself.

Since the Old Town was built during the days before cars, you don’t see many vehicles here, so it makes for the perfect place to stroll around, delve into coffee shops and boutique stores, bazaars and antique shops, and simply soak it all up.

Of course, the most iconic feature of Old Town is the Roman Harbour, which was built more than 2,000 years ago as the base for the Turkish Navy.

Be sure to check out the glass elevator that connects the old town with the new.

Stop 3: Check Out Hadrian’s Gate

Located in Old Town Antalya, Hadrian’s Gate is one of the most historic landmarks of Antalya. The archway was built by the Roman Emporer, Hadrian, in the year 130. It’s the only remaining entrance from the Roman era.

The gate sits about 8 meters tall and dates back to the Roman era, but the upper part was rebuilt during the early 13th century by  Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat I .

The gate is free to visit, but though it is small, don’t rush to see it. The ornate detailing of the gate is beautiful and tells the story of the Emporer and his family through statues and entablature.

Stop 4: Antalya Museum

Antalya’s history is long and storied, and the best place to learn all about it is at the Antalya Museum, otherwise known as the Antalya Archaeological Museum. The museum is one of the largest archeology museums in Turkey and features an impressive collection of ancient artifacts from the region, including Greek and Roman sculptures and mosaics.

One of the standout pieces was the statues from the city of Perge , depicting the Roman Emporers such as Plancia Magna, Emperor Hadrian, the Emperor Septimius Severus. The museum has thirteen halls, but these were found in the Hall of Imperial Statues.

I was also intrigued by the sarcophagi from ancient Roman burial grounds in the Sarcophagus Hall, each with unique carvings and inscriptions. The most beautiful was the Domitias sarcophagus, which is decorated with reliefs showing the twelve labors of Hercules. The hall features the sarcophagi of Heracles, Domitius Julianus, Domita Philiska, Aurelia Botiane and Demetria.

Overall, the Antalya Museum provided a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history. I highly recommend a visit for any history or culture enthusiasts. If you only have one day in Antalya to spend looking at museums, make sure it’s this one.

Stop 5: Suna & Inan Kirac Kaleici Museum

Located in the historic Kaleiçi district of Antalya, the Suna and İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum is a combination of two lovingly restored homes from the 19th century, a Traditional Antalya House and the Aya Yorgi Church.

The houses contain a diverse collection of artifacts, ranging from traditional clothing and furniture.

One highlight is the Hagios Georgios Church, which contains Çanakkale ceramics that belonged to the Suna & İnan Kıraç collection.

With its unique blend of cultural treasures, the Suna and İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum offers something for every history lover.

Stop 6: Visit Karaalioglu Park for Sunset

Karaalioglu Park is a large urban park that overlooks the Roman Harbor and Mediterranean Ocean. It’s full of green spaces, with colorful and exotic flowers, squares, and statues.

It also has three terraces overlooking the ocean, which has become a hotspot for locals and tourists alike to gather and watch the sunset.

Pack a picnic and watch the sun go down, after that, head to the famous Bar Street to experience Antalya’s amazing nightlife.

Day 2: Boat Trip from Antalya

For the second day, you’re going to need to pack your swimwear and towel because we’re going on a boat trip! There are many boat trips in Antalya , but we recommend the Pirate Boat Trip to Phaselis Bay because it’s the perfect combination of history and snorkeling, which is what boat trips are all about.

Stop 1: The Ancient Greek and Roman City of Phaselis

If you’re looking for a more historical boat tour, then the pirate boat from Kemer Beach to Phaselis Bay is the bout tour for you. As you discover the stunning bays around the Mediterranean ocean, you’ll be transported by a pirate-themed Gallion, which looks like something out of a Pirates of the Caribbean movie.

The ship will take you to the ancient Greek and Roman city of Phaselis, which is now an open-air  museum in Antalya . The city is now in ruins, which are said to date back to the 7th century BCE.

Wander around the agora and amphitheater, former Roman Baths, and aqueducts, before heading back to the ship to do some more exploring.

Stop 2: Snorkelling at Paradise Bay

You’ll have some time to swim in the shallow waters of Phaselis, before having lunch. Then, you’ll sail to Paradise Bay, which as you can imagine by the name, is a stunning beach. You might also get to see the beautiful Mehmet Ali Bükü bay for swimming if there’s time.

Stop 3: See the coral reefs at Alaca Water

The final stop on your journey is the Alaca Water, a gorgeous inlet filled with coral, which is the perfect spot to do some snorkeling before returning home.

The entire tour takes around 6-8 hours, so do plan for a full day.

Day 3: Beach Day

Bordering the Mediterran Sea, Antalya’s beaches are some of the best in the country. Matter of fact, the Turkish Riviera has the nickname Turquoise Coast. It would be a shame to come to this stunning coastal region in Turkey and not spend a day at the beach. 

Here are a few beaches we recommend adding to your 3-day Antalya itinerary…

Stop 1: Konyaaltı Beach

The first beach we suggest you visit is one that’s close to the city center. Konyaalti Beach is a stunning beach that stretches for 13 km, and gently declines into the clear turquoise water of the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for swimming!

Its gentle waves mean it’s a great beach to visit for families, and because it’s so large, you’ll find even when it’s crowded there is enough room for everyone.

The most magical part of swimming at Konyaalti Beach is having the dramatic Beydağları Mountains in the foreground. At certain times of the year, the mountains are topped with snow, which is a site to behold.  

Konyaalti Beach is a pebble beach, meaning the water stays clean and clear. You will find plenty of bathrooms, changing rooms, and showers available to use here too.

Stop 2: Lara Beach

Lara Beach is one of the most popular blue flag beaches on the Turkish Riviera. Boasting a long, sandy stretch of beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters, it is no wonder why Lara Beach in Antalya is so popular with visitors.

Lined with sun loungers and umbrellas that are available to rent for a low fee, this soft-sand beach is perfect for sunbathing and a must-visit on your trip to Antalya. You will be spoilt for choice with beach clubs and nice dining options to enjoy lunch overlooking the beach. 

Located east of the city center, you can easily reach Lara Beach within 50 minutes using public transport or by car in 30 minutes. There are many facilities nearby, such as showers, bathrooms, and places for you to change. 

Stop 3: Archaeological Museum in Side

To break up the journey from Antalya to Cleopatra Beach, we recommend stopping in Side. There are some fantastic beaches in Side, but it’s also a great place to grab some lunch or visit the iconic Side Museum, the archeological museum here.

Side Museum is a fascinating museum set in a former ancient bath house (Agora Bath) which is thought to have been built in the 2nd century AD.

The rectangular bathhouse is made up of five rooms; a cold room, a sweat room, two warm rooms, and hot room.

Today the museum is no longer a bath, but a museum showcasing the artifacts uncovered during exvacations of sites in the Side region between 1947 – 1967.

The museum contains statues, sarcophagi, ceramics, and glass and bronze findings. You can also see coins belonging to both the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Stop 4: Cleopatra Beach

Lastly is Cleopatra Beach, which is the furthest beach from Antalya city, but is definitely worth the trek.

Named after the Egyptian queen herself, Cleopatra Beach is renowned for incredible blue waters, swimming, water sports, and great facilities. This famous blue-flag beach is situated in the small town of Alanya, a  popular destination for families  and international travelers alike.

The main characteristic of Cleopatra Beach is that it is a white sand beach. As well as the beach, there are many things to do in Alanya that make it worth a couple of days of your time if you can spare it. You will easily find great hotels, restaurants, and bars along the promenade, all of which are located near the beach to maximize the summer holiday experience.

The main beach is around two kilometers from the center of  Alanya  and is reachable by public transport.

If you are looking to partake in some water sports on your summer holiday then head to Cleopatra Beach and try your hand at sailing, kite surfing, or scuba diving.

The Best Antalya Itinerary for 4 Days

If you’re planning a 4-day Antalya itinerary, we recommend following the itinerary above, and on the fourth day, we are going to travel outside the city of Antalya.

We’re going to take a day trip from Antalya to some of the most fascinating historical landmarks in the area, and step back in time (metaphorically) to the Ancient City of Perge…

Day 4: Ancient City of Perge, Temple Of Apollo, and Aspendos Theatre

Visiting the Ancient City of Perge is a full day trip from Antalya, so set aside a full day to explore the city and its nearby historic attractions.

Stop 1: Ancient City of Perge

The Ancient City of Perge is a short distance outside Antalya city and was originally an ancient Lycian city, which later became the ancient Greek city of Pamphylia.

Pamphylia was the capital of the Roman province which is now called the Antalya Province, and so was a hugely important city in ancient times. It was even the birthplace of the famous Greek mathematician Apollonius of Perga.

Today the city lies in ruins, but it’s still possible to make out where buildings, temples, and rooms once were by the remaining columns and walls.

Although you’re tempted to look up at the imposing columns of The Agora or be amazed at the well-maintained amphitheater, be sure to look down, and take a glimpse of the long central water channel that runs through the middle of the main street.

This channel contained a series of pools that were used to keep citizens cool in the arid climate.

Stop 2: Aspendos Ancient Theater 

Located not too far away near the city of Side, is the Aspendos Theater . Aspendos was an ancient Greco-Roman city, and though much of the city is in ruins, the ancient theater is remarkably well preserved.

It is said that the construction of the theatre was the result of a competition by Marcus Aurelius, the Emporer of the time. The competition was to build a structure that would bring prosperity and wealth to the city, and the winner of the competition got to marry his daughter.

According to legend, two competitors made it to the finals, one of them constructed the aqueduct and the canal system which supplied the city with running water, and the other built the theater.

When the ruler came to inspect the theater, he stood at the highest point of the structure and heard a whisper, telling him that his daughter was to be the wife of the builder. When he turned to the stage, he saw the builder standing there and was so impressed by the acoustics, awarded him the winner.

Stop 3: Temple of Apollo

Back towards the city of Side, lies The Temple of Apollo, a Roman temple built roughly around 150 A.D. It was dedicated to Apollo, the Greek and Roman god of music, light, and harmony.

Today only five columns remain of the temple, which stands tall against a backdrop of the Mediterranean Ocean behind.

There is not much to see, but it’s worth swinging by since it’s on the way back to Antalya.

Stop 4: Kursunlu Waterfalls

The Kursunlu Waterfall is the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring. On your way back towards Antalya, stop off at the Kursunlu Waterfall Nature Park, a 587-hectare green space with plenty of trails, picnic areas, and recreation space.

Inside the park stands an 18-meter waterfall that empties into 7 smaller pools, and is surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty. Unfortunately, this is not a place where travelers can swim in.

The water that flows down the river is a deep, rich, blue color and offers visitors a nice backdrop for their photos. Another beautiful feature is a green, mossy wall behind the waterfall.

The walk to the waterfall is around two kilometers. However, for those who are keen hikers, there is a longer option through the national park that takes three hours and follows along the river. Visitors can even go behind the Kurşunlu Waterfall to a hidden cave to take photos and cool off with the spray from the water. 

There is a small fee to enter, but the park is well equipped with toilets, paved paths, free parking, Turkish restaurants, and more for visitors to enjoy.

The Best Antalya Itinerary for 5 Days

If you have 5-days in Antalya, then we recommend following the Antalya itinerary above and spending your fifth-day hiking. Antalya is surrounded by mountains and stunning nature, so go out and explore it!

Day 5: Hiking and Whitewater Rafting in Koprulu Canyon

You’ll need to allow a full day to explore the beauty of the Kaprulu Canyon. Make sure you pack a change of clothes as you’re going to need them after you’ve been white water rafting!

Stop 1: White Water Rafting

The Koprulu Canyon National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty just outside the city of Antalya. It’s filled with pine forests, mountainous hiking trails, and of course, the beautiful Koprulu Canyon with the Köprü River running through it.

One of the most popular things to do at Koprulu Canyon is to engage in watersports, such as white water rafting, kayaking or canoeing.

Whitewater rafting is certainly the most adventurous, and if you have never done it before, this is the perfect place to try it.

The white water rafting route splits into two canyons, one is a narrow canyon with warm water and surrounded by sheer rock cliffs, while the other is wide, with cold water and surrounded by forested cliffs and natural waterfalls.

The diversity of the route makes it incredibly fun. You get the thrill of adventure mixed with the serene beauty of nature around you.

Some of the water is quite rocky and has fast-flowing water, so children under 10 are not allowed with most tour companies.

As you sail down the waters, be sure to keep your eyes on the lookout for the Oluk Bridge and Bugrum Bridge on the Kocadere Stream, which are some excellent examples of Roman engineering.

Stop 2: Quad Bike or Hike in the Pine Forest

After white water rafting, it’s time to explore the natural beauty of the park. Head out on one of the several hiking trails, or better yet, climb on a quad bike and soar through the trails in the pine forest!

Stop 3: Zip Line Experience

If you haven’t had enough adrenaline for one day, finish off with a zip-line experience! The zip line course in Koprulu Canyon has a 250-meter rope that extends over Kopru Cay. 

Whizz through the air and soar above the canopies of the trees and take in the scenes of the river below. The whole ziplining experience only takes about half an hour so it’s the perfect end to an action-packed day!

Seven Day Itinerary for Antalya

If you have a full week at your disposal, then we recommend you follow the itinerary for Antalya above, and on the sixth day go West towards Kemer and visit the Lycia Rock Tombs and The Sunken City of Kekova.

These are two iconic historic landmarks in Turkey and offer a unique glimpse into another era in the past.

Use your seventh day as a buffer day to see the attractions you weren’t able to get to and do all the things you missed. There are always more beaches to see, or you can go and take a refreshing dip in one of Antalya’s waterfalls , such as the Upper Duden Waterfalls.

We all need a little relaxation, and no doubt you’ve got your eyes set on one of Antalya’s world-class resorts. So why not enjoy the facilities a little? 

We’re not the type of traveler to spend the whole time in the hotel, but if you’re paying for the facilities, make sure you use them. Spend the morning splashing in the pool or check out the spa.

Getting Around Antalya

Antalya is very easy to get around. The city of very walkable, since most of the main attractions is located in the Old Town, which is also within walking distance of the main beach in Antalya.

There is a public bus network that takes you out of the main city to some of the beaches in the Antalya region, and it’s also possible to do some of these day trips on the public bus too.

However, we don’t recommend it. Buses don’t run as frequently as you would need them to in order to maximize time and they also run on Turkish time, meaning they might not show up at the time they are scheduled.

If you can, we recommend hiring a car. This way you can easily drive from place to place without having to worry about whether the bus will turn up or not.

Of course, if you don’t drive, it’s entirely possible to do it all using public transport but there may be some attractions on this list you will need to skip – or you just stay longer.

Tips for Visiting Antalya

To help you have the best trip to Antalya, here are a few words of advice:

• Go slow and don’t try to pack it all in. I know these itineraries are jam-packed, but you’re going to exhaust yourself trying to see every beach and historical landmark.
• Hire a car. It will honestly save you so much time and stress by doing everything yourself and driving.
• Download the MapsMe App. This is an offline satellite GPS and is perfect for those who are planning on hiking around Antalya as you can follow the trails offline. 
• Prepare for hot weather. Being by the coast, Antalya has a lovely sea breeze which can often make you forget about how hot it is. Wear sun protection and a sun hat and make sure you drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel like you need it.
• Take out cash . Some establishments in Antalya don’t accept credit cards.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Antalya?

Antalya is an all-year-round destination, so the best time to visit Antalya largely depends on your preferences for weather and crowd sizes.

If you prefer warm weather and don’t mind the heat and big crowds, the best time to visit is between June and September. July is the hottest month with daily maximum temperatures averaging around 35°C.

However, if you’re looking for more mild weather, the periods from March to May and October to November are considered ideal. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant throughout the day and you can enjoy all the things to do in Antalya including swimming in the sea, sunbathing on the beach, exploring the Old Town, and much more.

How To Get To Antalya, Turkey?

There are many ways to get to Antalya, but for the majority of the travelers, you’ll be getting to Antalya with one of the following three ways:

Flying to Antalya is perhaps the easiest way to get to Antalya. Antalya has its own airport called the Antalya Airport (AYT) and it is about 13.5 km (8.4 mi) away from the historic center – Kaleici. It takes around 30 minutes to drive from the airport to the Kaleici, however, it could take considerably longer when there is traffic, which is quite often.

Getting From Antalya Airport To Historic City Center

Getting to Antalya Airport to the historic center is very easy, especially since there is a tram line that takes you within walking distance from the Kaleici. The T1A AntRay Tram departs just outside of Antalya Airport and takes a little over an hour to get to the city center. It is the cheapest and most efficient way to get into the city.

Turkey has an extensive network of long-distance buses and minibusses that can take you to pretty much anywhere you want. If you want to get to Antalya by bus, you’ll need to take a long-distance bus from anywhere in the country to Antalya Şehirlerarası Otobüs Terminali , Antalya main bus station.

From there, you can take a tram straight into the city center.

By Rental Car

If you have rented a car in Turkey, then it is easy to get to Antalya. Turkey’s highways and roads are generally in good conditions, but please beware of reckless drivers. There tend to be a lot of aggressive ones.

Renting a car in Antalya is also a good option, because there are many day trips and attractions in the surrounding region worth checking out. Hidden gems like Kas, Side, Alanya, Aspendos, and Kemer are great to visit for those with a car.

Visiting Antalya FAQs

What is the best month to visit antalya.

The best month to visit Antalya largely depends on your preference. If you want to enjoy a tropical beach holiday, then the months of June, July and August are ideal for that. If you want a holiday with a wide variety of things to do, then the shoulder months of March, April, September, and October are perfect.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Antalya?

While it is not as sunny or warm as the summer, December can be a good time to visit Antalya. The average temperatures in Antalya in December range from 12°C to 16°C with a chance of rain. However, this is considerably warmer and more pleasant than many parts of the world, especially in Europe.

Is Antalya Turkey Expensive?

Antalya Turkey is not expensive, especially when compared to other destinations around the world. Budget travelers can get around with spending only around $40 USD a day per person.

Is Antalya Turkey Worth Visiting?

Antalya is most definiltey worth visiting. The coastal city in Turkey has rich history, beautiful beaches, turquoise Caribbean waters, and delious Turkish food. Not to mention, it is very cheap, especially compared to many parts of Europe.

Final Thoughts on Antalya Itinerary

So there you have it, this is how you can spend your days in Antalya, and as you can see, there is a LOT to see and do.

No matter how many days you plan to spend in Antalya, we know you will have a great trip.

Do you have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

2 thoughts on “Antalya Itinerary: 3, 4, 5 or 7 Day Options”

Hi is antalya good to visit in november… beaches can be seen .. what do you recommend for november

Hi Chaya, yes Antalya would be good to visit in November. The weather is usually warm in the day time and good for a couple of hours on the beach, though it can get cold in the evenings. There’s not much chance of rain. It will be quiet in terms of tourism that time of year, but tours will still operate so you can see all the attractions. I definitely recommend visiting the Ancient City of Perge – it was a highlight on our trip to Antalya. If you like walks, it’s the perfect time of year to do hiking. You can hike a portion of the Lycian Way in a day.

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Antalya travel guide

Antalya tourism | antalya guide, you're going to love antalya.

There are many reasons to visit Turkey's most famous resort town. With old historical monuments and a rich modern nightlife, Turks and foreigners alike love Antalya's calming location along the Mediterranean Sea.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Antalya

1. luxury resort life.

There are two main resort districts to choose from in Antalya: Belek and Lara. Prices generally are all inclusive and vary between 300-3,000tl a night.

This old historic center is filled with shops, hotels and beautiful architecture.

3. Duden Waterfalls

These falls, due to a water recycling station, drop dramatically over a cliff into the Mediterranean sea.

4. Hadrien's Gate

The three arched gates were built to celebrate emperor Hadrian's visit to the city in 130 A.D.

5. Köprülü Canyon

This National Park of Turkey, opened in 1973, offers many trails, swimming holes and canyons to explore.

What to do in Antalya

1. old city marina: board a boat with a view.

Also known as the Kaleici Marina, the old city's harbor features more than quietly docked boats waving gently and waiting to be sailed. There are many local restaurants that provide stunning views of the marina, where travelers can rest up and enjoy fresh seafood. Board one of the boats, manned by commercial crews ready for hire. Choose from private, luxury boats, or public boats that offer shorter, 2 hour trips ideal for visitors. Take advantage of the elevator shuttling visitors from the main street level down to the harbor, which features a viewing platform for a truly panoramic view.

2. Hadrian's Gate: Entering A Wrinkle In Time

The gates of Hadrian is a stunning monument dating back to 130 CE, built to commemorate the visit of Emperor Hadrian. Besides being a beautiful relic, Hadrian's Gate marks the entrance to Kaleici, Antalya's charming, historic quarter. The beautifully constructed gates used to be a part of the city's outer walls and proves that history is more than just words in a book - that ancient citizens once lived here, whose monuments have survived the test of time. The gates are connected to two towers, built independently in different eras, during the rules of Seljuk sultans.

3. Duden Falls: Feeding Into the Mediterranean Sea

Located just 7.5 miles northeast of the city of Antalya, this picturesque collection of waterfalls are more than just natural wonders. They are a haven for local wildlife and birds that nest by the water, and the Lower Düden Falls feed directly into the bright blue Mediterranean Sea. The group of waterfalls are part of a local recycle water station and feed into artificial cascades and irrigation trenches facilitating the distribution of water to the region. To view the waterfalls up close and personal, visitors can take a boat trip from the Antalya harbor and visit the surrounding park.

4. Antalya Müzesi: Putting the "Muse" in Museum

With over 5,000 works of art covering an area of over 7,000 m², the grand Antalya Archaeological Museum is not only one of Turkey's largest museums but its richest as well. It features a combination of exhibition halls, gardens, and open air galleries, as well as live excavation sites along a long coastal strip of the Mediterranean. This means that beauty spreads as far as the eye can see and the smell of history is thick in the air. There are 13 permanent exhibitions on display featuring art, crafts, statues, ruins, artifacts, maps, and more.

5. Aspendos: An Evening of Theater

Viewed from the upper gallery, a traveler's sense of just how vast and well-preserved the Roman amphitheater of Aspendos truly is hits home. Today, the theater features the annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival, with international collaborations between opera and ballet companies from across the globe. However, during Roman rule and periods of conquer, the ancient city played a battle stage to Persian navies and Alexander the Great himself.

Activities & attractions in Antalya

Where to Eat in Antalya

Mermerli restaurant sits overlooking a small bay, serving both traditional and turkish dishes. A typical sit-down meal will cost you between 50-60tl.

When to visit Antalya

Antalya experiences very hot and humid summers, meaning that the best times to visit are from April to June and September to November. These times are also out of season and tend to be cheaper for tourists.

How to Get to Antalya

The Antalya International Airport is 13km outside of the city. Direct tickets from Europe are around 300euros in the peak summer season.

There are currently no trains servicing Antalya.

The D400 highway services most of the Mediterranean cost from Fethiye in the West all the way through Antalya to Gazianteppe in the East.

The Serik Otogar is located in the Kepez district and can connect you to other cities within Turkey.

Airports near Antalya

Airlines serving antalya, where to stay in antalya.

The Eski Masal Hotel is close to the beach and right in the center of the popular Kaleici historical district. Prices start at 930tl a night.

Popular Neighborhoods in Antalya

Kaleici – This area features both historical architecture and the center of Antalya's nightlife scene.

Lara – This area has the highest concentration of luxury hotels and is popular for a stress-free, all-inclusive family vacation.

Belek – Also a resort town, but more adult focused and with a mountainous green landscape.

Where to stay in popular areas of Antalya

Most booked hotels in antalya, how to get around antalya, public transportation.

Trams, buses and minibuses (dolmus) are the most common form of transit. A reusable AntalyaKart transport card can be bought for 5tl and topped up with money credit as necessary.

Taxi tariffs start at 3tl and will generally cost you around 10-15tl per journey within the city center.

Rental cars can be picked up at the airport or downtown for around 150tl a day.

Best car rental deals in Antalya

5 Adults, 5 Bags

The Cost of Living in Antalya

Shopping streets.

Shop at Kaleici bazaar for traditional textiles, pottery and other souvenirs. MarkAntalya has a more traditional mall set up, with recognizable brands and fixed prices.

Groceries and Other

The main grocery stores in Antalya are Migros, Sok and Carrefour. A dozen eggs will cost you around 6tl.

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By road
• 3.1 By tram
• 3.3 By taxi
• 4.1 Further out
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 9.1 Old Town
• 9.2 Konyaaltı
• 10 Stay safe

Antalya is a city in Pamphylia on the Turkish Mediterranean coast , and the chief resort of the "Turkish Riviera". It's a metropolis with a population of 2.7 million in 2022, the fifth largest city in the country.

Understand [ edit ]

The city was named for its first documented ruler Attalos II (220-138 BC), king of Pergamon , though it was obviously settled much earlier. Attalos' life and wife resembles soap opera, and his epiphet Philadelphos - "brother-loving" - hints at insecurity over how his relationship with back-from-the-dead brother and co-ruler Eumenes II might be portrayed. He based his fleet here - there were few alternatives along this exposed coast, and Attaleia (Ἀττάλεια) grew up around what's now called the Roman harbour. It never grew large as it lacked a hinterland - it's hemmed in by mountains with difficult routes to get inland, although a fertile coastal plain extends up to the east. Early visitors included St Paul the Apostle (Acts 14: 25-26) and Ibn Battuta, who in 1331 AD recorded how Christians, Greeks, Jews, and royal court each inhabited their own walled enclave, while the Muslims lived in the main body of town all within an enclosing wall.

This relative isolation meant little fighting here, but Antalya was the prize to be handed over after conquests elsewhere: to the Seljuks in 1207 and the Ottomans in 1391. After Turkey's defeat in World War I, the harsh 1920 Treaty of Sèvres handed over tracts of the country to the Allies, and Italy gained Antalya. This was reversed, and Turkey gained its present borders, by the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne.

Access was improved by road building in the 20th century, but the game-changer was in the 1970s when commercial airliners could jet tourists non-stop from northern Europe, and the political environment boosted tourist infrastructure. The city burgeoned, with development either side of Kaleiçi the old town centre, but especially east along the sandy Lara beach. Effectively this strip extends 150 km until the mountains terminate the coastal plain: it's all called "Antalya area" in tourist literature, but in this guide the easterly towns of Belek , Manavgat , Side and Alanya are described separately.

Climate is of course Mediterranean. Summers are hot, sunny and humid yet rainless. Days average 30-35°C and may surpass 40°C; nights may be muggy and sticky so you want air-con.

Winters are mostly mild, punctuated by storms, downpours and strong winds. April-May and Oct-Nov are optimum conditions for sight-seeing, and the sea remains warm late into Autumn.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Onward transport:

• By tram: AntRay Tram 1A runs downtown from two T1 stops (domestic and international) every 15 min 06:00-00:00; it doesn't serve T2. Get off at İsmetpaşa (taking 50 min) for the old town or to transfer to Tram 2. Stay aboard another 30 min for Otogar the bus station. Coming out to the airport take Tram 1A badged "Havalimanı". Tram 1B follows the same route until Yonca Kavşak then branches off to Expo.
• Bus 600 runs from T1 (domestic) and T2 to Otogar - so this could serve as an inter-terminal shuttle and spare you a taxi. It runs every 30 min 07:00 to 00:00 with night runs around 01:30, 03:30 and 06:00. It runs via Mevlana Cd and Adnan Menderes Blv, taking about an hour to Otogar. At T1 the stop is by the blue "D" sign next to a fig tree, usually with a scrummage of other waiting passengers. Ignore the "D" outside T1 (international), which stands for "decoy" or "dupe me". Taxi touts will converge on you, saying truthfully "No bus leaving here!" and steering you towards a taxi.
• By taxi: this is the best option for Lara resort strip, which is east of the city near the airport. Official rates were last set in 2022, see Get around. A ride to city centre might be 500 TL.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses from Istanbul run hourly and take 12 hours via Gebze , Izmit , Eskişehir , Kütahya , Afyon , Sandikli and Burdur , for a fare in 2023 of 600-800 TL. From Ankara is 9 hours, from Izmir 6, from Adana 11 and from Konya 6. A faster route from Istanbul or Ankara is to take the YHT train to Konya, which connects with buses to Antalya.

Bus lines include Metro Turizm , Pamukkale , Flixbus (who've taken over Kamil Koç) and Varan .

Frequent buses run along the coast from Alanya , Manavgat (for Side ) and Belek . Operators include Alanyalilar and Güney Akdeniz , the long-distance bus lines don't serve this short route. You could also take a dolmuş.

36.9218 30.6652 2 Antalya Otogarı the bus terminal is 6 km northwest of city centre. Your inter-city ticket may include a downtown transfer, check when purchasing. Otherwise take the tram from Dumlupınar Blv 10 minutes walk east. The station is large, modern and reasonably clean, with ticket kiosks, cafes and toilets.

By road [ edit ]

From Istanbul follow O7 / O5 / O22 (toll) south past Bursa to pick up D200 east, then D650 south via Kütahya and Afyon, reckon 8 hr 30 min.

Hitchhiking outbound, the dilemma is to be far enough out to pick up inter-city vehicles, but not so far out that they can't stop. One spot northbound is the roundabout where D330 branches from D650. City buses 506 and 509 run to D330, for Denizli, Pamukkale, Aydin and Izmir. Ten buses run along D650 Akdeniz Blv, for Isparta, Afyon and Ankara.

Get around [ edit ]

Antalyakart is the plastic transport card you need for the tram or public bus. Buy it or reload it at kiosks along the tramway, at the airport and at the bus terminal; you probably need banknotes for this. The upfront cost is 35 TL in 2023, and single rides thereafter are 15 TL. A transfer within one hour of boarding is 5.50 TL.

You can also buy disposable paper cards for 6 TL, and pay 17 TL per ride. These don't allow transfers, nor can they be re-loaded, but you can load a suitable amount on purchase.

Or use contactless payment at the card-reader or turnstile: no upfront charge, pay 18 TL per ride, no transfers.

Discount cards are only available for citizens with Turkish ID, who pay a little more upfront but get cheaper rides.

By tram [ edit ]

AntRay Tram 1 runs from Fatih in the north of the city to the Otogar (transfer to Tram 3), Ismetpaşa downtown (transfer to Tram 2) and Meydan then northeast to Yonca Kavşak. Tram 1A there forks for Airport Terminal 1, Tram 1B continues out to Aksu and Expo. Trams run every 15 min 06:00-00:00.

Tram 2 is a heritage line, with 1950s/60s tramcars donated by the city of Nuremberg in 1999 in gratitude for all those kebabs and factory workers. It runs near the coast from the Museum (transfer to Tram 3) east to Cumhuriyet downtown (transfer to Tram 1) then south through Old Town to Zerdalilik. It's mostly single track with passing loops, and the project to double-track it has stalled.

Tram 3, opened in 2021, starts north of the city at Varsak and runs to Kepez, swinging west to Batigar (for Otogar and transfer to Tram 1), Akdeniz University Hospital and the Museum (transfer to Tram 2).

Buses go everywhere in the city, with over a dozen lines plying to the otogar (bus station). See above for Bus 600 to the airport.

Good luck finding any practical info on the city transport website. Try peering at bus stops on Google Map close to your start point and destination to find lines that run all the way.

Dolmuş minibuses ply fixed routes. In theory they're supposed to run to a schedule, not wait to fill up as in other Turkish cities. In practice an empty dolmuş will move so slowly in hope of more passengers that it may be overtaken by elderly pedestrians with zimmers.

By taxi [ edit ]

There are taxi stands all over the city where the drivers have their base and teapot, or you can order through online BiTaksi or iTaksi. The official rates since 2022 are flagfall 10 TL then 14 TL per km, with no separate night rate. Popular visitor destinations have price lists in euro. You can also negotiate with any taxi driver to be your private tour guide, or at least take you on an excursion: this might be a good option for Perge but pricey for Aspendos.

Walk [ edit ]

City centre is walkable, and using a car or bicycle here is tiresome at best.

See [ edit ]

• Dervish Lodge Museum opposite the mosque used to be the home of the Mevlevihane, the "Whirling Dervishes". It's open Tu-Su 08:30-17:30, free.
• The Clocktower ( Saat Kulesi ) just east of the Fluted Minaret Mosque is from the 9th century AD.
• Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque facing the clocktower was built in the 17th century. It's named for a military commander who was appointed Grand Vizier - prime minister - in 1595 but died ten days later.
• Karatay Medresi 100 m southwest of the clocktower was a religious school built in 1250. It's become populated by cafes and shops so it's only worth a brief look.
• Toy Museum ( Oyuncak Müzesi ) is by the harbour, open Tu-Su 09:00-18:00, free.
• Iskele Mosque by the harbour is compact, almost a kiosk.
• 36.8836 30.7018 4 Harbour piers have pleasant views over Old Town and the sunset.
• Ethnographic Museum , Civelek Sk 20 ( south side of harbour ), ☏ +90 242 238 5688 . Daily 08:30-17:30 . Exhibits traditional arts and crafts. Free . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8808 30.7081 6 Atatürk House Museum , Fevzi Çakmak Cd 11 . Daily 08:30-17:30 . Atatürk stayed in Antalya in 1930, 1931 and 1935. This rebuilt mansion shows memorabilia of his times. Free . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Müsellim Mosque , 200 m north of Fluted Minaret Mosque, was built in 1796.
• 36.8885 30.7066 7 Balibey Mosque at the corner of Ismet Paşa Cd and 403rd Sk was built in 1485.
• 36.8915 30.7025 8 Murat Paşa Mosque on Milli Egemenlik Cd was commissioned in 1570. It has a high dome and beautiful Seljuk calligraphy within.
• 36.8861 30.7158 9 Sheik Sinan Mosque at the end of Değirmenönü Cd ("windmill street") was built in 1590 AD.

• 36.8512 30.7833 12 Düden Lower Waterfalls on Lara Cd are where the Düden River plunges 40 m into the sea.
• 36.8489 30.8141 13 Sandland ( Kum Heykel Müzesi ), Lara Cd , ☏ +90 549 445 0777 . Daily 09:00-23:00 . Sand sculpture park open year round, lit up at at night. Adult 250 TL, child 125 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8567 30.8653 14 Aksu Dolphinarium , Tesisler Cd 318, Aksu , ☏ +90 532 389 0719 . Daily 09:00-18:30 . Sea lions and dolphins do their splashy stuff at 11:00 and 15:00. Extra charges to swim with them or have a dolphin take a photo of you. People may wish to consider the ethics of such attractions before visiting. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Further out [ edit ]

• 36.9647 30.7268 15 Düden Upper Waterfalls are where the Düden River emerges from karstic tunnels to fall 20 m.
• 36.9463 30.6361 16 Antalya Zoo ( Antalya Hayvanat Bahçesi ), Kepez ( Tram: Fatih ), ☏ +90 242 332 3232 . Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 . Large spacious zoo park. 20 TL per car . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 37.1102 30.9361 20 King's Pool ( Kral Havuzu ). An attractive pool in a canyon. Free . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 36.9925 30.9897 21 Sillyon was a fortified city that had its heyday in the Byzantine era from about 680 to 820 AD. The ruins are scrappy and tumbling down the hillside.
• 37.0469 31.1106 23 Zeytintaşı Cave is a small show-cave near Akbaş in the mountains above Aspendos, visited by guided tour.

Do [ edit ]

• Boat trips leave from the harbour. Never believe their first price offer and departure time.
• Aqua parks are Waterhill opposite the Aquarium, and Park Aqua , Wet & Wild and Trendy Lara all east along Lara beach strip.
• Funfair: Akturpark is next to the Aquarium, open daily 18:00-02:00. You pay per ride, no overall admission charge.
• Football: Antalyaspor play in Süper Lig, the top tier. Their home ground Antalya Stadium (capacity 32,500) is west of the city, 1 km from the museum off İsmail Baha Sürelsan Cd. The stadium is named Corendon Airlines Park, after their sponsor.
• Golf: head east to the next resort of Belek , which is pitching to be the Algarve of the East Med.
• Golden Orange Film Festival is held in October, with the next 7-14 Oct 2023.

Buy [ edit ]

• MarkAntalya AVM is the main shopping centre, 200 m east of Murat Paşa Mosque, open daily 10:00-23:00.
• Migros stores are dotted around town, but the big one is 5M on Atatürk Blv 200 m north of the aquarium, open daily 10:00-22:00. It's also a transport hub for the west (Konyaalti) side of town.
• Farmers Markets are on Tuesday and Saturday along 538th Sk south of the Hilton Hotel.
• 36.853 30.757 1 Terracity Mall , Tekelioglu Cd 55, Fener , ☏ +90 242 318 1818 . Daily 10:00-23:00 . This is the main retail centre east side of the city towards Lara beach strip, with some 180 stores and several restaurants. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Agora and Deepo Outlet Center / Mall of Antalya are two retail parks on D400 two km west of the airport entrance.

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ]

• 36.8877 30.702 1 Piyazcı Sami , 25th Sk 1 , ☏ +90 242 244 9190 . Daily 10:00-22:00 . Antalya-style piyaz (bean salad), kofte and other authentic fare. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8894 30.7028 2 Urfali Ciğercİ Apo , 14th Sk 17 ( within Kasapoğlu İş Market ). Simple place with good food. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8867 30.709 3 Özkan Kebap , 1253th Sk 8/A , ☏ +90 242 244 8401 . Daily 07:00-22:00 . Good menu selection, budget place popular with locals. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8901 30.6951 4 Çiğköfteci Ömer Usta , Anafartalar Cd 65, Altındağ , ☏ +90 242 241 0402 . Daily 11:00-01:00 . Friendly place for çiğ köfte, raw meatballs. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8894 30.6961 5 Gizem Cafe Fast Food , Milli Egemenlik Cd 1/D, Kızılsaray , ☏ +90 242 244 0580 . Daily 09:00-23:00 . Inexpensive place for trad shawarma and dürüm. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8762 30.6521 6 Köfteci , 640th Sk, corner of 7th Cd, Konyaalti , ☏ +90 242 240 4047 . Daily 09:00-22:00 . Authentically shabby place for Turkish trad food. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8622 30.6375 7 Public Konyaaltı , Kent Meydani, Akdeniz Blv, Konyaalti , ☏ +90 538 091 5174 . Daily 12:00-02:00 . Within the main square on Konyaalti west beach strip, this serves burgers, thin-crust pizza and other filling food. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8489 30.6138 8 Yamaçoba , Heniye Hanım Apt 283 D/2, Atatürk Blv, Konyaaltı , ☏ +90 242 259 5040 . M-Sa 09:00-19:00 . Great quality for inexpensive food at the west end of the beach strip. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Rokka Pizza Falafel , Recep Peker Cd ( opposite Hadrian's Gate ), ☏ +90 242 244 1020 . Daily 11:00-23:00 . Good eating place with lots of veggie / vegan choices. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8818 30.705 9 Ayar Meyhanesi , Hesapçı Sk 59 , ☏ +90 530 117 2927 . Daily 12:00-01:00 . Friendly restaurant with a great selection of fresh fish. The swimming pool is a puzzle, is it a vivarium where lobsters choose which human bather to eat? ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Paradise Restaurant , Selçuk Mah 42 ( just west of Dervish Lodge ), ☏ +90 544 603 6303 . Daily 10:00-02:00 . Sports bar with decent food. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8844 30.7074 10 Grand Friends , Kocatepe Sk 37 , ☏ +90 531 858 0508 . Daily 12:00-00:00 . Fish and steak to a high standard, friendly service. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Karaf Bistro Kaleiçi , Sakarya Sk 14 ( just south of Sehzade Korkut Mosque ), ☏ +90 242 242 8081 . M-Sa 14:00-00:00 . Pleasant relaxing place with pizza and wine. The owner's cat won't steal your wine but will try to claim its share of everything else. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8858 30.7068 11 Hasanağa , Mescit Sk 15 , ☏ +90 242 247 1313 . Daily 11:00-02:00 . Long-established family-run restaurant, pleasant garden setting and great trad food. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• Seraser , Paşa Cami Sk 14 ( 100 m east of clocktower ), ☏ +90 242 247 6015 . Daily 16:00-00:00 . Fine dining which they mostly deliver, but at these prices they need to be more consistent. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Lots in town centre. Names like Sheffield Pub, Edinburgh Social House and Dubh Linn tell you which demographic they're aiming for.

Konyaalti beach strip west has The James Joyce and The Barrels .

Lara town centre has Lucky Sports Bar and Patrick Irish Pub, but on the beach strip further east it's just the hotel bars.

Doluca Vineyard is next to the airport entrance.

Sleep [ edit ]

Old town [ edit ].

Lots of inexpensive pansiyons in Kaleiçi the core of Old Town and Kılınçarslan its southern extension.

• Whitegarden Hotel , Hesapçı Geçidi Sk 9 ( 100 m west of Sehzade Korkut Mosque ), ☏ +90 242 241 9115 , [email protected] . Gorgeous little place in old town. B&B double 2500 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Sibel Pansiyon , Fırın Sk 30 ( 100 m south of Sehzade Korkut Mosque ), ☏ +90 242 241 1316 . Welcoming hotel owned by a warmhearted multilingual French woman. Rooms have aircon, satellite TV and private bathrooms. It's quiet at night, good breakfasts. B&B double 1500 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Hotel Blue Sea Garden , Hesapçı Sk 65 ( next to Hıdırlık Tower ), ☏ +90 242 248 8213 . Friendly hotel with garden restaurant. Some rooms dark and dingy, others pleasant with sea view. B&B double 1500 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Alp Paşa Hotel , Hesapçı Sk 30, Kaleiçi ( 100 m southwest of Hadrian’s Gate. ), ☏ +90 242 247 5676 , [email protected] . Atmospheric hotel in the historic district with good restaurant. B&B double 1000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Tuvana Hotel , Karanlık Sk 18, Kaleiçi ( 100 m south of clocktower ), ☏ +90 242 247 6015 , [email protected] . Pleasant peaceful hotel near centre, with 45 rooms and small pool. B&B double 2000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8963 30.7107 1 DoubleTree by Hilton , Adnan Menderes Blv 61 , ☏ +90 242 231 0042 . Mid-range chain hotel north end of downtown, mostly good reviews. B&B double 2000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Konyaaltı [ edit ]

This is southwest of the centre with 10 km of pebble beach, and some industry around the marina at its west end. Western package holidays don't base here, so prices are lower than in Lara.

• Hotel Su , Dumlupınar Blv 205 ( by Water Park and Aquarium ), ☏ +90 242 249 0700 . Quirky decor, good service and comfort. B&B double 2500 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8708 30.6509 2 Pearly Hotel , Akdeniz Blv 104 , ☏ +90 539 516 0760 . Facing the beach. Many fittings in need of repair. B&B double 3000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8598 30.6336 3 Megasaray Westbeach , Akdeniz Blv 192 , ☏ +90 242 782 4057 . Great reviews for this beachfront hotel. B&B double 2500 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Lara [ edit ]

Lara hotel strip stretches east for 20 km. Nearest to town is Şirinyalı: this is bustling but has not much beach, so prices are lower. Rates increase along the long sandy beach east from Kundu to Aksu; this is prime territory for western package deals. The access road is officially Yaşar Sobutay Boulevard but is better known as Lara Turizm Yolu. Hotels have more room to spread out further east, as far as Aksu Creek: facilities beyond there are described as the separate resort of Belek .

• 36.8643 30.7259 4 Akra Hotels , Lara Cd 24 , ☏ +90 242 310 9999 . Smart efficient hotel, limited sea access. B&B double 3000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8533 30.8028 5 Holiday Inn Lara , 2290th Sk 5, off Lara Cd , ☏ +90 242 345 8888 . 1 km from beach, good value. B&B double 2000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8583 30.8563 6 Lara Barut , off Lara Turizm Yolu , ☏ +90 444 9600 . Great reviews for this upmarket family-oriented hotel. B&B double 9000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8555 30.8721 7 Delphin Imperial , off Lara Turizm Yolu , ☏ +90 242 320 0707 . Great reviews for comfort and service. B&B double 8000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Delphin Diva is their less expensive branch just behind.
• 36.8567 30.8749 8 Grand Park Lara , off Lara Turizm Yolu , ☏ +90 242 352 4444 . Small rooms, some lapses, but overall good value for the price. B&B double 3000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )

• 36.8561 30.8796 9 Concorde De Luxe Resort , off Lara Turizm Yolu , ☏ +90 242 782 4050 . Consistently good reviews for comfort and service. B&B double 4000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Sherwood Exclusive Lara , off Lara Turizm Yolu ( just east of Concorde ), ☏ +90 242 352 2800 . Fair value from this mid-price place. B&B double 3000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Royal Wings Hotel just east of Sherwood Exclusive gets mostly okay reviews.
• 36.858 30.8921 10 Royal Seginus Hotel , off Lara Turizm Yolu , ☏ +90 850 850 7070 . Comfy enough, but poor scores for noise and catering. B&B double 7000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Royal Holiday Palace next to Royal Seginus is similarly disappointing.
• Baia Lara , off Lara Turizm Yolu ( just west of Royal Holiday Palace ), ☏ +90 850 850 2242 . Service, cleanliness and catering erratic. B&B double 5000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8589 30.8957 11 Aska Lara Resort , off Lara Turizm Yolu , ☏ +90 242 320 5700 . Family-oriented hotel with lots of children's activities. B&B double 4000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Kremlin Palace , Tesisler Cd 440/1, Aksu ( just west of Swandor ), ☏ +90 242 431 2400 . It's supposed to recreate the luxury of a Russian tsar, with a hoaky St Basil's overlooking the pool. Good reviews. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8567 30.9162 12 Swandor Topkapi Palace , Yaşar Sobutay Blv 442, Aksu , ☏ +90 242 431 2600 . Mixed reviews, some guests have a great stay, others find comfort, service and food way below standard. B&B double 4000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Titanic Mardan Palace , Yaşar Sobutay Blv 450, Aksu ( between Swandor and Trendy Lara ), ☏ +90 242 310 4100 . Great scores for comfort and service. The swimming pool is huge. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 36.8614 30.9226 13 Trendy Lara , Tesisler Cd 454, Aksu , ☏ +90 242 321 2510 . Huge family-oriented hotel. B&B double 6000 TL . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Standard precautions about traffic, water and sun safety, care of valuables and avoiding drunks.

Antalya like any other big city has its quota of dodgy individuals, sharp-edged trash and stray dogs; but tourists have little reason to be in down-at-heel districts.

Connect [ edit ]

Antalya has 4G from all Turkish carriers, and the signal extends along the resort strip beyond Alanya. As of July 2023, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey.

Go next [ edit ]

• Kemer southwest is part of the Antalya tourist strip. Go further south along the rugged coast of Lycia for quiet beaches and village harbours.
• Belek to the east has golf links and luxury hotels.
• Manavgat further east has waterfalls, but the big draw is the Roman ruins at Side .
• Alanya yet further east has an ancient citadel perched on a crag, with beach hotels stretching either side.
• Termessos is a ruined ancient city above the forests of the Taurus Mountains.

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Antalya: Top 19 Things To Do (Travel Guide)

• Last updated: January 31, 2024

Welcome & thank you for reading our blog. :) We love what we do and put a lot of work in our free articles. We hope you find what you are looking for!

About Antalya

Antalya is a huge city and Turkey ’s top travel destination, offering an outstanding balance of luxury hotels, stunning beaches, and the city and surrounding area full of history and beautiful nature, ready for exploring. 

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Top things to do in Antalya

Let’s jump right in and see all the top things to do in Antalya.

1. See Lower Duden waterfall (Karpuzkaldıran)

Lower Duden waterfall, or Karpuzkaldıran in Turkish, is one of Antalya’s highlights and a top thing to do because it falls directly from the cliff into the ocean.

You can easily see this unique sight from a sidewalk in Duden Park.

Location of Duden Waterfalls

To get to the Lower Duden waterfall, you can use bus lines KL08, KL21, LC07, and LC07A from Lara Beach and Kaleici, the old town of Antalya.

Tip : There are two Duden waterfalls, the upper and the lower, so don’t confuse them. The lower one is the one falling into the ocean.

The coolest way to see the Lower Duden waterfall is by boat tour, which takes you directly in front of the waterfall from the ocean. 

Book your tour: Antalya City Tour & Boat Trip to Lower Duden Waterfalls .

RECOMMENDED TOURS

We had to skip the boat trip this time, but it seemed like a fantastic experience, judging from the boats approaching it on the water.

Photo tip: There is a fence along the cliff for safety reasons, and you need to cross the fence to get the best photos. Many people do this, and it’s not dangerous because there are a few meters of grass between the viewing platform and the cliff’s edge. If you’re comfortable with stuff like this, go ahead, but we didn’t do it. 😀

2. Explore Kaleici, the Old Town of Antalya

Kaleici, the Old Town of Antalya, has a long, rich history and many preserved ancient ruins and artifacts from the Roman era.

Taking a stroll around Antalya’s Old Town is one of the best things to do, as you can enjoy the beautiful streets full of stunning architecture and colorful shops.

Check out these important landmarks while wandering around the Old Town:

Hidirlik Tower

The 14 meters high Hidirlik Tower was built in the second century during Roman Emperor Hadrian but is unfortunately closed to the public, so you can only watch from behind the park’s fence.

Yivli Minare Mosque

One of the first Islamic buildings in Antalya is the Yivli MInare Mosque, built at the beginning of the 13th century and its fluted minaret is a perfect example of minarets in Anatolian Turkish Architecture.

The entrance to the Yivli mosque is free, and you can visit it anytime except during prayer.

Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower)

Hadrian’s Gate

On the corner of Kaleici, you can find Hadrian’s Gate or Üçkapılar, also known as “The Three Gates,” the only remaining entrance gate in the walls around the old town of Antalya.

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Karaalioglu Park

Karaaliouglu Park is a beautiful seaside park, full of greenery and statues, which offers stunning views of the mountains and Antalya city.

Antalya’s harbor was one of the most important ports on the Anatolian south coast. Today, it serves as a modern marina full of restaurants and cafes and a starting point to many boat tours. 

Tip : Start your walk at the harbor, climb the city walls, and walk around the Old Town of Antalya towards the Karaaliouglu Park for sunset. You can also park your car near the harbor.

3. Enjoy the beaches of Antalya

The Turkish coast is breathtaking, and Antalya offers beautiful beaches. However, to enjoy the best ones, you’ll need to stay in a resort with a private beach or drive outside the city.

The most famous beaches in Antalya are:

• Konyaalti beach: long pebble beach with lots of water activities and rich nightlife
• Lara beach: the closest one to Antalya airport
• Mermerli beach: a small beach located right next to the marina

RECOMMENDED

4. Explore the waterfalls

Antalya’s surroundings have some beautiful waterfalls that are worth checking out. So, if you’re a nature fan, make sure to include these on your list.

• Kursunlu Waterfalls , located about 20 km away from Antalya. You can combine it with the visit to the Ancient City of Termessos.
• Upper Duden Waterfalls , where you can also go behind them in a cave to get a unique perspective.
• Uçansu Waterfalls : located around 60km away from Antalya, where you can even swim in one. There is also an upper waterfall to which you’ll need to trek for about an hour.

We had these waterfalls on our list but didn’t have enough time, so we decided to skip them. However, they’re pretty small or even dry in the summer, so this is something to keep in mind. 🙂

The best month to see the waterfalls of Antalya in their full power is in April and during more rainy months (autumn, winter). 

5. Day trip to Pamukkale and Hieropolis

Pamukkale and Hierapolis are two fascinating attractions in Turkey and are easily reachable from Antalya.

Pamukkale is a natural site known for its incredible white travertine terraces and hot springs, while Hierapolis was once a significant center of trade and culture.

In addition, the ancient city sat atop hot springs which release mineral-rich water into pools below, forming an unusual structure that looks like a cotton castle! These two wonders have been attracting tourists for centuries.

Read more: Pamukkale: Ultimate Guide to Turkey’s Cotton Castle

Pamukkale is around 3,5 hours (approx. 240 km) drive from Antalya. You can drive to Pamukkale by yourself or book a tour that includes Hierapolis and a buffet lunch.

Book your tour: Full-Day Pamukkale & Hierapolis from Antalya

A day trip to Pamukkale is absolutely one of the top things to do in Antalya.

Important: Keep in mind that the photos of Pamukkale going around social media are mostly heavily photoshopped and don’t show a realistic picture of the place. While we think it’s still very much worth seeing Pamukkale and Hieropolis, if you only plan to visit for “the Instagram shot,” it’s better to skip this place.

6. Day trip to Salda Lake

Salda Lake, or Salda Golu in Turkish, is often referred to as the Maldives of Turkey because of the white sandy beach and crystal clear turquoise water. Locals even refer to it as “Saldives”.

The bathing season in Salda Lake is between June and September, but you can still visit it outside those months because the scenery is gorgeous, even with being too cold and windy to swim.

Salda Lake is around 160 km away from Antalya, and if you’re driving by yourself, you can combine a visit to Pamukkale and then Lake Salda on the way back. It will be a lot in one day, but it’s manageable and definitely worth it. 

There are not that many tours that you can book online that include a visit to Lake Salda, but we have found one Lake Salda & Pamukkale tour on GetYourGuide (choose pickup in Antalya).

Remember: Joining an organized tour from Antalya means you will be picked up very early in the morning, around 4 am, and dropped back at your hotel late in the evening, around 10 pm. And you can’t really avoid that.

7. Day trip to Kas

Kas is one of the cutest coastal towns in Turkey and should definitely be added to your Turkey itinerary.

It’s home to one of the most stunning beaches in Turkey – Kaputas beach. The drive from Antalya to Kas is also spectacular, and you can add Kemer to stop at as well.

Read our Kas travel guide to see all that Kas offers.

If you visit Kas, make sure to take one of the fantastic boat tours through the stunning bays. 

Read more about the Kekova & Sunken Cities Boat Trip in Kas.

8. Day trip to Aspendos

Aspendos holds one of the best-preserved ancient Roman theaters. Even though it’s the highlight of the archeological site, you can also walk around to see a few more ruins around (agora, castle, basilica). 

Book your tour: Aspendos Tour (includes Perge and Side)

The ticket price for Aspendos is 60 TL, or around $4.

Aspendos is 50km away from Antalya, and it takes about 40 minutes to get there by car.

We wanted to see Aspendos on the way to our next stop, Konya, but unfortunately, we only managed to get in front of the theater. Unfortunately, we got followed by a storm and heavy rain from Antalya, so we didn’t go in.

Need a reliable Turkey mobile package to stay online?

While you can find WiFi practically everywhere, in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and even beach bars, having a reliable mobile package in Turkey is the way to go. We recommend the unlimited data eSIM packages from Holafly .

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9. Day trip to Termessos

Termessos Ruins are 40 km away from Antalya. It’s a much less visited attraction than some other archeological places around the area, but there is no public transport to take you there.

The easiest way to get to Termessos is to drive there in a car or on tour.

The ticket price for Termessos Ruins should be approximately $2.

Book your tour: Termessos Tour

10. Day trip to Alanya

Alanya is another resort town with beautiful beaches and historical landmarks on the Turkish coast. Alanya is a popular day trip from Antalya, located around 130 km away from Antalya’s center (about 2 hours drive). 

We didn’t manage to visit Alanya the last time we were there, as we plan to visit the city next time and stay for a few days to enjoy the area thoroughly.

Alanya is famous for scuba diving, and we plan on doing that on our next visit, as there are some really cool dive sites to check out.

Book your tour: Scuba Diving in Alanya

11. Go paragliding

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you will be thrilled to know that you can even go paragliding on your visit to Antalya.

Although the paragliding is actually done in Alanya (about 2 hours away), you can arrange a transfer from Antalya with the paragliding company (paid extra, about 50 euros one way). Or you can add a night or two in Alanya and do it from there.

12. Go rafting and canyoning in the Koprulu Canyon

One of the most exciting things to do in Antalya is to get your adrenaline pumping on an adventure-filled day of canyoning, rafting, and ziplining at the nearby Koprulu Canyon National Park.

Book your tour: Rafting and canyoning in the Koprulu Canyon

13. Have fun at the Land of Legends Theme Park

Visit the famous Land of Legends Theme Park, an immense complex near Antalya full of thrilling roller coaster rides, an exciting water park, over 150 stores, and restaurants and bars.

RECOMMENDED TOUR

And if you stay in one of the Rixos Hotels, you also get free shuttle service and free admission tickets to the Land of Legends Theme Park.

The Land Of Legends Kingdom Hotel

(located inside Land of Legends)

Rixos Premium Belek Hotel – All Inclusive

(10-minute shuttle to Land of Legends)

Rixos Downtown Antalya – All Inclusive

(located in downtown Antalya and offers a free shuttle service)

14. Sail to the beautiful Suluada Island (Turkish Maldives)

Join a day trip to the beautiful Suluada Island, also known as Turkish Maldives from Antalya, which also includes a few swim and snorkel stops at other beautiful bays of the Mediterranean Sea.

Suluada Island looks beautiful, and we would love to go there on our next visit.

15. Visit the Green Canyon and Emerald Lake

Head out from Antalya to the fascinating Green Canyon for a boat tour, where you can swim in the beautiful waters of the emerald lake while surrounded by lush nature.

16. Hop aboard one of the boat trips on the Mediterranean

Antalya is famous for boat trips to nearby Mediterranean bays like Phaselis, and there are different options you can choose from.

The most famous one is the Pirate Boat Trip to Phaselis Bay, but it’s more like a party cruise and is mostly quite crowded, so it might not be the best option for families.

On the other hand, cruises like the Mega Star Cruise are a better option as they’re much more comfortable. And they also visit the same beautiful spots and offer plenty of snorkeling and swimming opportunities.

And if you’re looking for a more private experience, you can charter a private boat trip around Kas with a pickup from Antalya.

Click here to read all about our Kas Kekova boat trip. (we went on a shared boat)

17. Explore the Taurus Mountains

The glorious Taurus Mountains are another must-do thing in Antalya, and they’re the easiest to explore on a full-day Jeep Safari.

Note: This is not an actual safari, and you won’t see any animals except some chickens or goats, but you will get a sightseeing trip to the charming mountainous landscape.

18. Get a traditional Turkish bath and massage

While in Antalya or anywhere in Turkey, pampering yourself with a traditional Turkish bath and massage is an unmissable thing to do.

19. Take in the views from the Olympos cable car ride

One of the best ways to take in the views of the Mediterranean coast and the mountainous landscape near Antalya is by taking the Olympos cable car ride up to 2365m height on top of Mount Tahtali.

The starting point of the Olympos Teleferik (Olympos Cable Car) is about 1 hour and a half drive south of Antalya’s downtown, near Kemer.

You can book a skip-the-line Olympos cable car ticket online or buy a combo ticket that includes a transfer from either Kemer or Antalya.

At the top of Mount Tahtali, after completing the 10-minute ride with the Olympos cable car, you are rewarded with gorgeous views, and there’s also a cafe and a restaurant, and you can even go paragliding.

Note: The top of the mountain is much colder than the area below, so even in summer, it’s wise to take a light jacket!

By the way: If you’re visiting Fethiye/Oludeniz, take a ride on the Babadag Cable Car! You can have spectacular views of the turquoise waters of Oludeniz bay below and can also go paragliding.

Click here to read all about the Babadag Cable Car.

Click here to read all about Paragliding in Oludeniz and Fethiye.

Best time to visit Antalya

Antalya has a Mediterranean climate which means summers are hot and dry, and winters cool and mild.

Therefore, the ideal time to visit Antalya is in spring, from mid of March to June, and in fall, from mid-September to mid-November, when the temperatures are pleasant and the area isn’t too busy, like in the peak summer season.

June to September are the hottest months in Antalya, Turkey, and temperatures average from 21 Celsius (the lowest) to 35 Celsius (the highest). Summer is the most popular time for tourists to visit Antalya, which means the area will be crowded and the prices will be the highest.

Colder weather in Antalya starts in November and lasts till the end of March. January is the coldest month in Antalya.

We swam at the Konyaalti beach at the end of October, and we’ve heard of many people enjoying the beaches even further into the end of the year, up until January.

Where to stay in Antalya?

In Antalya, you can stay at one of many beachside resorts or base yourself in Kaleici, the old town.

If you want some better deals or bigger apartments with a kitchen, opt for going a bit outside the central area.

Antalya is pretty big, so there are plenty of accommodations for all budgets.

The bigger beach resorts are mostly found along the Konyaalti and Lara beaches, and there are plenty of resort hotels with great amenities. And budget hotels are also easy to find, especially in the old town.

Best-reviewed hotels in Antalya

5 stars, right next to Muratpaşa Beach

Big complex with pools, spa, and tennis court + more

10-15 minutes from Kaleici by taxi/public transport

Zemira Garden Hotel

Great value for money

Beautiful rooms and suites

Right inside Kaleici, the old town of Antalya

Sealife Family Resort Hotel

5 stars with great amenities

Easy access to Konyaalti beach

Best-reviewed resorts in Antalya

Lara Barut Collection (Lara Beach)

Calista Luxury Resort (Lara Beach)

Concorde De Luxe Resort (Kadriye/Belek Beach)

Best-reviewed budget stays in Antalya

Patron Hotel

Central location in Kaleici

Budget, clean rooms

Great view from the terrace

1207 Boutique Hotel

Clean, spacious, well-equipped rooms

Flaneur Hostel

Central location, right outside Kaleici

Private and dorm rooms

During our trip, we chose Arya Apart Hotel with a big kitchen, living room, and bedroom. It also had a parking lot and a washing machine for only $35 per night (end of October).

Arya Apart Hotel

Book your stay: 

• Antalya Hotels
• Antalya Resorts

Where to eat in Antalya?

Antalya offers a lot of restaurants of all kinds and for all budgets. It’s easy to find something just by walking around Kaleici, the old town, from cheap and tasty food in local restaurants to exquisite meals in fine dining restaurants.

There are even a few vegan options in Antalya, such as Vegan House . We really wanted to go, but it was closed on a Sunday when we wanted to visit, so we didn’t manage to. If you’re vegan (or not) and you go there, let us know how you liked it. 😉

Stay protected on public WiFi

We’ve been using NordVPN for over 5 years now and can highly recommend the tool for protecting your privacy and freedom while browsing the internet.

It encrypts your connection and hides your data from potential hackers . Also, with a VPN, you can access blocked/restricted content like some Netflix movies or booking sites.

TIP: Shipped Away readers get a special deal .

How to get to Antalya?

The best way to get to Antalya is by flying directly to the Antalya International Airport (AYT), located about 25 kilometers away from the city center, easily reachable with bus line 442.

Click here to find the cheapest flight tickets to Antalya

Getting to Antalya (AYT) from Istanbul (IST) is very easy on many daily flights in just 1 hour and a half.

Reaching Antalya from Cappadocia is also easy, as you can fly directly from Kayseri (ASR) to Antalya (AYT) in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Pre-book your Private Transfer from Antalya Airport .

Cities in Turkey are also well connected with buses, so you can get to Antalya with a direct bus from Istanbul , Izmir , Goreme ( Cappadocia ), and Ankara, among others.

Click here to book your bus to Antalya .

Roads in Turkey are great, so it’s easy and efficient to rent a car and get to Antalya from Istanbul , Izmir , Ankara, Cappadocia , or other places. 

We rented a car in Istanbul and did the Turquoise coast road trip all the way to Antalya. Itinerary for that is coming soon! 

How to get around Antalya?

The best way to get around Antalya is by renting a car. That way, you’re the most flexible, and you can also make some day trips by yourself.

Click here to book your rental car in Antalya.

Renting a car in Turkey is pretty cheap, and the roads are great, so don’t hesitate to rent a car if you’re a driver.

If you aren’t driving while in Antalya, you can always use its public transport or taxis to go around the city. Antalya has excellent public transport, and you can take a bus, tram, or a dolmus (minibus) to get to your desired destination. Public transport is also the most convenient way to get around Antalya during peak season, as you don’t have to worry about parking.

Like any bigger city, Antalya also offers bike rental, and you can rent a bike for as low as $0.5 for a few hours. We found one bike rental spot at the Konyaalti beach, and we’re sure there’s plenty around the major spots of the city.

How long should I spend in Antalya?

One or two full days in Antalya is enough to see the city’s main highlights.

However, if you plan to base yourself in Antalya and explore some fantastic towns and nature spots, count on spending at least four or five days here. But, of course, everything more than that is perfect if you also want to relax a bit.

Prices in Antalya

Is Antalya safe?

Antalya is a very safe place and one of the top tourist destinations in Turkey. Many solo travelers, including female solo travelers and families, visit Antalya, so there’s nothing to worry about. Just make sure to follow standard safety procedures as you do anywhere else, and you’ll be fine.

Is Antalya worth visiting?

Antalya is absolutely worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, turquoise water, nature, historical attractions, many fun activities and nightlife, shopping, and closeness to other beautiful coastal cities are just some of the reasons you should visit Antalya. There’s something for everyone.

Looking for more travel guides and Turkey travel inspiration?

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Antalya Travel Guide & Top Things To Do

Antalya is a beautiful city in Turkey , located on the Turquoise Coast in the south of the country. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning Mediterranean beaches, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions.

This Antalya travel guide will give you all the information you need to plan your trip to this coastal city and make the most of your visit.

Disclaimer:  Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!

Where Is Antalya and Why Visit?

Located on the southwest coast of Anatolia, Antalya is Turkey’s largest international coastal resort city. The area is known as the Turkish Riviera and is popular with holidaymakers. The city is bordered by the Taurus Mountain range to the east.

Antalya is home to a rich history dating back to the ancient Roman and Greek empires, and many of these historical sites can still be visited today. In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Antalya is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with various activities such as hiking, water sports, and golf.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, learn about the city’s rich history, or experience the great outdoors, Antalya has something for everyone.

The Best Time To Visit Antalya

As a city in the Mediterranean, Antalya has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

The hottest months are June to September where the temperatures sit in the early 30s (Celsius). This is also peak season for Antalya where the prices are at their highest and popular locations at their busiest.

The colder months are from November to March where the average temperature sits in the mid-teens. (Celsius) January is the coldest and wettest month. This precipitation will fall as snow in the surrounding mountains, so if you want to travel to Antalya and experience winter sports, January is the best month to visit.

Spring & Fall

The best months to avoid the hot temperatures and busy crowds are in spring, from mid-March to June and in fall from mid-September to December. The sea heats up all summer, so the warmest waters for swimming are from August to October. 

The Best Things To Do In Antalya

1. relax on a beach.

Situated on the Turquoise Coast, Antalya is home to many beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. One popular option is Lara Beach, known for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters.

You can also visit Konyaalti Beach, a Blue Flag beach with a long promenade where you can enjoy a variety of water sports. At the end of this 13km you can take the Tunektepe Teleferik cable car for views over the city.

The best way to reach the beach is by taking the tram from the old town to the Antalya Archaeological Museum, and walking the short distance from there.

2. Visit Antalya Museum

The Antalya Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history and culture. Located close to the city centre of Antalya, the museum houses a collection of artefacts from the areas rich history, including ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, ceramics, and coins.

The museum is divided into several galleries, each showcasing a different period in the region’s history. Visitors can see exhibits on the ancient city of Perge, the Roman Empire, and the Ottoman period, among others. The museum also features several temporary exhibitions highlighting different aspects of the region’s culture and history.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum also has a library and research centre, offering a wealth of information for scholars and researchers.

To get to the Antalya Museum, you can take a tram from the old town. You can also join a guided tour from Antalya, which includes transportation and a visit to the museum. The museum also has a free car park if you have your own transport, which was conveniently where our campervan decided to have a break down during our last visit!

The museum has a small entrance fee and is closed on Mondays.

3. Go horseback riding

If you enjoy spending time outdoors on horseback, consider riding in the surrounding countryside. Several stables and guided tours are available, allowing you to explore the beautiful landscape of Antalya on horseback.

The guided tour below provides the opportunity to explore the beaches of Antalya on horseback.

4. Stroll the streets of the old town, Kaleiçi  

Kaleiçi is the old town of Antalya, known for its narrow streets, colourful houses, and historical landmarks. It is a great place to wander and explore, with various shops, cafes, and restaurants to discover. Although the old town doesn’t have a designated bazaar, the are a large selection of souvenir stores that line the cobblestone streets.

Within the old town there are a few important historical sites that should’t be missed which include the Yivli Minare, Hadrian’s Gate and Antalya clock tower (Saat Kulesi). The old town is easy to navigate independently, however if you’re interested in learning about the history and landmarks as you wander, consider joining a guided tour.

5. See Yivli Minare

The Yivli Minare is a beautiful 12th-century fluted minaret located in Antalya’s old town. It is a popular tourist attraction known for its eight stone channels and blue-tiled dome. Inside the mosque there are 800 year old water channels which were filled with hot water from the hamam and cold water from the mountains. The mosque is free to enter outside of prayer times.

6. Visit Hadrian’s Gate

Hadrian’s Gate is a well-preserved Roman gate built in the 2nd century AD to honour the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. It is located in the city centre and is a popular tourist attraction due to its historical significance and beautiful architecture. Hadrian’s Gate is the only remaining gate from the old city walls and serves as the main entrance to Kaleiçi. This is the perfect start to a walking tour of the old town.

7. Hıdırlık at Karaalioglu Park

The original function of Hıdırlık tower is often debated, however in its later years it was certainly used as part of the city’s defences. The views from Hıdırlık tower are hard to beat as they stretch right across Konyaalti beach to the Taurus mountains beyond.

Behind the tower is Karaalioglu park which is a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon, with walking paths designed to explore the green spaces and places to enjoy a picnic.  

8. Relax at Duden Waterfalls

There are two Duden Waterfalls in Antalya. The Duden River forms the falls, which flow from the Taurus Mountains and into the Mediterranean Sea. The Lower Duden falls spill dramatically off a cliff into the sea and can be viewed from the clifftop or by taking a boat trip from the harbour to the base of the falls. This is the Duden waterfall you’ll see posted on social media.

North of the city, in the Varsak District are Upper Duden falls, which are located in a lush green forest. There are caves behind the falls which can be accessed for alternative views of the waterfall. Multiple public buses run here as well as the Varsak minibuses. There are also many guided tours which visit both waterfalls of Antalya in their trips.

The Duden Waterfalls are a must-see attraction for nature lovers and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The peaceful setting and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect place to relax and recharge.

9. Go scuba diving

The Mediterranean coast of Antalya is home to various marine life and is a great place for scuba diving. Several dive centres and guided tours are available, allowing you to explore the underwater world and see the colourful fish and coral. There are tours for experienced divers and tours for complete beginners. The crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean offer great underwater visibility, ensuring a fabulous diving experience.

Here are some highly rated, guided scuba diving tours.

10. Take a boat trip from the harbour

Antalya’s harbour is a pretty place to wander and a great place to take a boat trip which explores the coast of the Mediterranean. There are a variety of boat tours available, ranging from short sightseeing trips to longer excursions to nearby islands.

The harbour is connected to the old town via an old stone staircase which has 44 steps and was built by the Venetians. You feel every one of these steps when climbing up in the summer sun!

For more information on sailing trips along the Turkish Riviera, take a look at this guide .

11. Ride the Tunektepe Teleferik

The Tunektepe teleferik is a cable car that takes you to the top of Tunektepe Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline. At the top of the hill, you can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or take a walk through the park.

The cable car ride takes around 10 minutes and is closed on Mondays. The following tours include a ride on the Tunektepe teleferik.

12. Go Golfing

Antalya is home to many golf courses, including the world-renowned Gloria Golf Resort and the Lykia Links course. If you are a golf enthusiast, consider spending a day on the greens during your visit. Click here for more information on golf courses in Antalya .

13. Visit the Antalya Aquarium and/or Zoo

The Antalya Aquarium and Zoo are popular choices for families. At the aquarium there are over 10,000 marine animals and over 50 different-themed tanks and at the zoo there are over 1000 animals the see.

Related Reading

• Top things to do in Kas
• A guide to visiting Oludeniz
• How to visit Butterfly Valley

10 Places To Visit Near Antalya

1. see kursunlu waterfalls.

Kursunlu Waterfalls are a beautiful natural attraction located just outside of Antalya. There are a series of waterfalls surrounded by lush green forest and are a great place to take a refreshing dip or enjoy a picnic. There are multiple trails to wander providing several viewpoints of the waterfalls, with the main waterfall being 18 metres high.

There is a small entrance fee to the area and a few park cafes serving snacks and refreshments.

2. Wander the sites at Side

Located 73km to the east of Antalya, you can find the Greco-Roman harbour city of Side. Side was one of the most important cities of Pamphylia, believed to have origins in the Bronze Age. Side has a number of ruins dotted around the resort city which is interspersed with houses, restaurants and shops.

Most of the locations are free to enter, with the exception of the large 2nd century amphitheatre. Take time to appreciate the well-preserved Hellenistic main gate as you enter the city, be sure to walk out to the peninsula to visit the Temple of Apollo and Athena and get lost amongst the temples and agora located next to the theatre.

3. Go rafting in Koprulu Canyon

Rafting in Koprulu Canyon is popular for adventure seekers visiting Antalya, Turkey. Located about an hour from the city, the canyon is home to the Kopru River, which offers a thrilling rafting experience for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

A beautiful canyon landscape surrounds the Kopru River with towering cliffs and dense forests. During a rafting trip, you can take in the stunning scenery and enjoy the thrill of the rapids. A variety of tour operators and rental companies offer rafting trips on the Kopru River, ranging from half-day excursions to multi-day adventures.

Rafting in Koprulu Canyon is a great way to experience the great outdoors and enjoy the adventure. It is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, and no previous rafting experience is required.

4. Marvel at the amphitheatre in Aspendos

Aspendos is an ancient city located about an hour from Antalya, known for its well-preserved amphitheater. The amphitheater isn’t as large as some other sites in Turkey, such as Ephesus, but it is unique because it’s fully intact. There is a modern stage at the front of the theatre with regular performances of plays and concerts.

However, there is more to see at this site than just the theatre, with remains of a basilica, nymphauem, acropolis and citadel to explore. There is also an aqueduct located a short drive from the main site. For a great view of the whole theatre, follow the footpath up to the hill just behind it.

You can join a guided tour from Antalya or take a taxi to reach Aspendos.

5. Explore Karain Cave

Karain Cave is a prehistoric cave located in the Taurus Mountains, about an hour from Antalya. It is known for its well-preserved artefacts from the Palaeolithic era, including tools and jewellery. You can join a guided tour from Antalya or take a taxi to reach the Cave.

6. Take an adventure to Thermessos

Thermessos is an ancient Turkish city located in the Taurus Mountains, about an hour from Antalya. It is known for its well-preserved ruins, including a theatre, an agora, and a necropolis. The theatre here lies partially in ruin however the location is incredible. It sits at the top of a hill overlooking the beautiful landscape of the Taurus Mountains.

A short hike up the hillside takes you to the main part of Thermessos, so an average level of fitness is required to reach this site. The paths around the site are signposted but they’re not always clear to follow. I used maps.me to help with navigation and had to help a few lost tourists along the way! 

7. Explore Myra and St Nicholas’ Church at Demre

Myra is an ancient Lycian site near the town of Demre. This archaeological site is famed for its incredible rock-cut tombs which are decorated by intricate carvings. There is also a large amphitheatre at Myra with intact entrance corridors.

In the town of Demre you can also visit the Church of St Nicholas aka Santa Claus. This 9th century church is a place of pilgrimage for many Christians and inside it’s possible to see the remains of wall paintings and mosaic tile floors.

Demre has a fabulous Friday market with the fresh local produce, so try and plan your visit on this day if you want to experience an authentic Turkish market.

Read more about visiting Demre in this guide.

The easiest way to get to Demre is through renting a car, however there are sailing trips from Antalya which visit Demre alongside a tour of the sunken city of Kekova Island.

8. Go skiing in the Taurus Mountains

The Taurus Mountains, located just outside of Antalya, offer a variety of winter sports activities, including skiing and snowboarding. There are several ski resorts in the area, allowing you to enjoy the slopes and the beautiful mountain scenery.

Saklikent Ski Resort is the closest to Antalya which is about 1 hour away, longer on weekends when the Turks head to the mountains for picnics. The resort only has two lifts so it’s quite limited and wasn’t blessed with great snow during our visit, however it is ideal for beginners. There is a shuttle service between Antalya and Saklikent if you don’t have access to a car.

However, it you are happy to drive further afield, Davraz Ski Resort near Isparta offers a larger ski area at a higher altitude, which is a better option for intermediate skiers and snowboarders.

Watch our visit to Saklikent Ski Resort in the video below.

9. Visit Perge

Perge is an ancient city located about an hour from Antalya, known for its well-preserved ruins from the Roman and Byzantine eras. It is home to several historical landmarks, including a theatre, an agora, and a stadium.  

10. The Land of Legends Theme Park

For the adrenaline junkies, no trip to Antalya would be complete without a visit to the Land of Legends Theme Park. In the adventure park there is a selection of roller coasters to get your heart pumping and in the aqua park, cool off with thrilling water slides and rapids.

How To Get To Antalya

Antalya International Airport is located 13km east of Antalya city centre. The airport offers direct flights to many major cities around the world and there is also the option of flying via Istanbul . The flight time from Istanbul to Antalya is around 90 minutes and flights run daily.

If you are travelling to Antalya from Cappadocia, there are direct flights from Kayseri (ASR)

The airport is 25km from the city centre and is serviced by two public buses (600 & 800). Taxis are also available from the airport (around $10) or you can pre-book an airport transfer through your hotel.

Alternatively you can take a bus to Antalya from Istanbul which takes around 13 hours or take the train which takes around 14 hours.

There is also a direct bus from Goreme ( Cappadocia ) as well as other major cities such Ankara, Izmir and Fethiye .

If you’re embarking on a road trip of Turkey you may prefer to rent a car and drive to Antalya. Localrent offer great deals on car rentals ensuring you get the best price. You can pick up a rental car from the major city airports.

Be sure to read this guide to driving in Turkey before you set off.

Getting Around Antalya

Antalya has excellent public transport so getting around the city via tram or bus is easy. If you plan to travel around Antalya on public transport, pick up an AntalyaKart card from the airport or from a kiosk in the city and enjoy discounted fares. The red trams are a fun way to see the city.

Most destinations outside of the city are serviced by dolmus (minibus) which leave from the city centre.

If you plan to travel to several destinations outside of the city and you don’t want to join a tour, then the best option is to rent a car. Car rental  in Turkey is straight forward and quite affordable.

Accommodation In Antalya

As a popular tourist destination in Turkey, there are no shortage of places to stay in Antalya from all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and apartments. You may want to choose your accommodation based on where your interests lie, for example are you mostly interested in relaxing on the beach or exploring the old town?

Konyaalti Beach

For a family friendly resort, located right on the beachfront, try the Sealife Family Resort Hotel . This resort has everything you possibly need on your Antalya vacation, including swimming pools, a spa, use of snorkelling equipment, kids club and a traditionally Turkish bath.

The Megasaray Westbeach is another hotel overlooking the Mediterranean sea. This elegant hotel is all inclusive with two swimming pools and a spa.

For those on a budget, check out Camp & Hostel Antalya which offers shared accommodation with a traveller-friendly vibe. 

The Atelya Art Hotel is a gorgeous, traditional ottoman house is located just 5 minutes from Hadrian’s Gate. The rooms feature traditional furniture and woven carpets. There is also a small outdoor pool in the courtyard.

If you’re looking for an apartment in the old town, then try the Mavi Avlu apartments . These apartments have all the amenities you would expect along with a patio overlooking the city.

Final Thoughts On This Antalya Travel Guide

Antalya is a beautiful and diverse city located in the southern region of Turkey. With its stunning Mediterranean beaches, rich history, and cultural attractions, Antalya offers something for everyone.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, learn about the city’s past, or experience the great outdoors, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. From visiting historical landmarks and museums to experiencing the local cuisine and culture, Antalya is one of the prettiest places in Turkey and an unforgettable travel experience.

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Louise is an Adventure Tour Guide & Mountain Leader from South Wales. Through working as a tour guide and snowboard instructor, she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Antalya, Turkey

About antalya turkey.

Antalya, Turkey is one of the most popular and frequented tourist destinations in the country, known for its natural beauty and historical riches, including blue-flagged beaches with clear waters. It is often considered a piece of paradise and a preferred holiday city. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sailing, sightseeing, mountain climbing, and family fun activities in Antalya.

For those planning a trip to Antalya, there are many resources available such as guides with detailed information about hotels, beaches, shops, archaeological sites, transportation, and more.

Top 8 Reasons to Visit Antalya

Antalya is a beautiful and charming city that has many reasons to make it on your tourist schedule, including:

Beautiful beaches: Antalya has some of the most stunning beaches in Turkey with crystal clear waters and soft sands.

Rich history: The city has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. There are many archaeological sites and historical landmarks to explore.

Delicious food: Antalya is known for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of traditional Turkish dishes and seafood.

Natural beauty: The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including stunning mountains and waterfalls.

Shopping: Antalya has a wide variety of shops, from local markets to high-end boutiques.

Nightlife: The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars and clubs that cater to all tastes.

Adventure activities: Antalya is a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking, rafting, and paragliding.

Welcoming locals: Antalya is known for its friendly and welcoming locals who are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

weather in Antalya

Antalya has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers, and mild and rainy winters. The best time to visit Antalya is from April to November, when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak tourist season is during the summer months of July and August when temperatures can reach up to 40°C. The winter months of December to February are generally mild with temperatures around 15°C, but it can also rain frequently during this time.

Where is Antalya ?

Antalya is situated on the flourishing southwestern coast of Anatolia, bordered by the Taurus Mountains. It is the largest city on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey with a metropolitan area of over two million people. The city is located at 36.91° N latitude and 30.70° E longitude, with an elevation of 61 meters above sea level. Antalya operates on the Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) time zone. To the west of the Antalya Gulf are the Bey Mountain group and Toros Mountains, which are located on the northeast side.

How to go to Antalya?

Antalya Airport , located 13 km (8 miles) east of the city center, is the most convenient airport for those traveling by plane. The airport is impressive and offers many shops and dining options. It is quite large, with ample seating areas for passengers waiting for their flights. Be sure to visit the Duty-Free Zones at the airport. Dozens of flights from various airports in Europe connect to Antalya Airport. For more information, you can call (+90242) 330 32 33, (+90242) 330 3600, or fax (+90242) 330 31 30. If you’re looking for a place to stay after a long flight or planning a return trip, browse nearby hotels.

Public buses from the airport: Antalya Airport offers transportation through tour operating companies, transfer companies, Havaş services, public buses, and taxis. Here’s some information about the city buses that go from the airport to the town center and bus terminal:

• Line 600 Airport-Bus Station: This service runs 24 hours a day and departs every thirty minutes. The journey from Antalya Airport to the city center takes approximately 40-45 minutes, while the trip to the bus station takes around 50-60 minutes.
• Line 800 Airport-Lara-Konyaaltı: This service runs between 06:15 and 22:15 and departs every two hours. The journey from Antalya Airport to the city center takes approximately 45-50 minutes, while the trip to the bus station takes around 55-60 minutes.

To use the public buses, you need to purchase a contactless payment card (Akbil) at the bus station, which costs 20 TL. So expect to pay 10 TL when you arrive at the station. To catch the public bus from the International Terminal, you need to go to the domestic terminal (300m away; turn right when you leave the International Terminal). There is a small blue “D” sign beside the taxi stand in front of the International Terminal. Note that taxi drivers may try to convince you that there are no buses leaving from there and offer you a ride.

A taxi ride between Antalya Airport and the city center takes around 20 minutes and costs about 15 USD (250 TL) during the day.

All of the local highways in Antalya are high-quality asphalt roads, and the main highways connect the city to various regions of Turkey. There are four different routes to reach Antalya by road:

• The main highway connects Antalya to Central Anatolia via Manavgat Konya.
• The highway that runs along the Mediterranean coast connects Antalya to Mersin harbor on the east coast.
• The tourist highway along the shoreline connects Antalya to the ancient regions of Lycia, Lonia, and Caria on the west coast.
• The main highway to the north connects Antalya to major cities such as Izmir, Ankara, and Istanbul.

In all of the tourism-focused areas in Antalya, many international and local car rental companies operate, and it is possible to rent a car from these agents. Tours are also organized to important tourism centers such as Ephesus, Cappadocia, Istanbul, and other places to introduce visitors to the Antalya region.

The closest harbors to Antalya that offer scheduled and charter voyages are Kusadasi and Izmir ports on the west coast, and Tasucu

Get around in Antlaya

Antalya, Turkey has a comprehensive public transportation network, which includes public buses, trams, mini-buses, taxis, and dolmush (small buses).

Antalya has an extensive public transportation system with numerous buses serving every destination in the city. The fares are affordable, and most buses provide air-conditioning and TV, even for short routes. The municipality operates 40 buses, while the rest of the fleet consists of 160 privately-owned buses. Additionally, Pamfilya Transportation Company runs 89 buses, and there are over 400 privately-owned minibuses operating in the city.

The buses in Antalya have a system of letters that precede the route numbers on the signs posted on the front of the buses. These letters indicate the destination of the bus. For example, A is for Aksu, a town located to the east of Antalya. C is for Çarşı, D is for Döşemealtı, F is for Tıp Fakültesi, K is for Konyaaltı Beach, which is to the west of the town center, L is for Lara Beach, located southeast of the town center, M is for Masadağı, T is for Terminal, U is for Uncalı, and V is for Varsak. So, if you see a bus with the destination number CK04, it means that the bus runs between Çarşı and Konyaaltı Beach.

“Dolmush” is a Turkish word that means “filled up.” It is a form of shared taxi or minibus that runs on a pre-determined route.

Most major public transportation stations have a dolmus station where you can take a seat in the dolmus that travels to your destination. Unlike buses, the dolmus does not wait until it fills up. Instead, it operates on a schedule. However, if the dolmus is empty and moves slowly in the hope of finding more passengers, it still needs to abide by its schedule and cannot wait for too long.

Antalya operates a two-line tram system which serves as a light rail system.

Line 1: Museum-City Center-Işıklar-Zerdalilik Nostalgic Tram Line 2: Fatih-Bus Station-City Center-Meydan Modern Tram

The trams are comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with WiFi, although a Turkish cellphone number is required to register for the WiFi.

Tickets cost 10.75TL and can be purchased at stores around the stations or at specific AntRay counters. Payment can also be made through the Antalya contactless public transport card (Akbil), which can be recharged at vending machines near the tram stops. The vending machines support different languages, including English. If you’re unsure, you can ask for assistance from the station guards.

Car rental start from here

Where to stay in antalya, hotels in antalya, 5 star hotels, 4 star hotels, 3 star hotels, 2 star hotels, 1 star hotels, places to visit in antalya, points of interest.

Antalya draws millions of people with its beautiful nature and historical riches for visiting this city. The combination of the sun, blue sea, the beautiful mountains that covered with trees cannot be seen effortlessly all collectively anywhere.

Here are the top Places to visit in Antalya :

1. Antalya Museum

2. the old roman harbour, 3.antalya aquarium, 5. duden waterfalls, 6. antalya bazaar.

When traveling to Antalya, leave plenty of time for sightseeing – you wouldn’t want to miss out on top attractions like Antalya Bazaar! This historic market area is known for its variable stuff, many shops, especially those selling jewelry.

We advise you to have a visit and enjoy your time there.

7. Antalya Saat Kulesi

8. hidirlik kulesi (the old stone tower).

Antalya’s Hıdırlık Kulesi is a landmark tower of tawny stone where Kaleiçi (Old Town) meets Karaalioğlu Park.

Its 14-meter-high tower, set in a small park, overlooks the cliffs of Antalya, and the Roman Harbor. Its establishment is said to date from the 1st or 2nd century AD The purpose of it is something of a mystery. The common belief is this tower was built as a tomb for a great leader. Bits of fresco within encouraging this conjecture. To the right and left of the portal are 12 axe-like motifs cut into the stone (six stones each side), which indicates the importance of the person entombed. This tower is located on a Hill end of Old Town. You came to a wonderful view of Mediterranean and Mountains. And you can reach there from the Harbor by 10 min walk.

9. Panoramic Elevator of Antalya

Shopping in antalya turkey, where to shop in antalya, food and drink in antalya turkey.

Food is incredibly cheap and delicious. Full meals will cost about 50 to 150 Turkish Lira, Service is amazing and only matched by its genuine friendliness. Antalya has excellent seafood restaurants as well. One thing to be aware of is to make sure the quoted price is the same as the price written on the menu.

Antalya has a lively nightlife in the summer. Many Options include bars with nargile (water pipe), games, live music and sitting around, discotheques with glamorous people, etc. On the Konyaalti’s Beach Park one club follows the next. Some of the traditional houses of Kaleiçi (Old City) has been turned into bars, in which a bottle of ‘Efes’ old Turkish beer costs around 15 or 20 TL depending on the place. The gardens shaded by trees offer a nice environment with a beer from the peak of summer heat. Also, Raki is a traditional alcoholic beverage that tastes like licorice. Make sure you do not drink it fast otherwise you will be out quickly.

“tourism police” section where travelers can report passport loss and thefts or any other criminal activity; they may have become victims of. They have staff multilingual in English, French, German, and Arabic. Tourism Police (Turizm Polisi), Kaleiçi Yat Limanı (at the marina below the old town), Tel: +90 242 243-10-61 (fax: +90 242 345-41-13)

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4 Days in Antalya – Best Antalya Itinerary

4 days in Antalya may or may not be enough to discover the beauties of this famous resort on the Turkish Riviera.

In my opinion, four days is the minimum for the best Antalya itinerary, enough to see many beautiful places in the city and nearby.

The best Antalya itinerary should combine the moments spent on the beaches in front of luxury hotels with those in which you can discover local life and culture.

You can do this on your own or by taking one of the most popular Antalya tours.

Antalya is one of the most popular destinations on the Mediterranean coast, with over 300 sunny days a year.

The resort at the foot of the Taurus Mountains offers many things for couples, groups of friends, and families with children.

In this article, I want to dispel the myth that a holiday in Antalya means 5-star all-inclusive resorts.

Indeed, it could be an option, but you’re in the right place if you genuinely wish to discover the city. There are so many excursions in Antalya worth taking.

How to get to Antalya

• By car – you can get to Antalya by car if you live in a close enough country. However, I would recommend this option only if you plan a road trip in Turkey , which involves several destinations in this country, not just a trip to Antalya. Thus, your car will be handy for you. Otherwise, I recommend the plane, especially if you only want to spend 4 days in Antalya.
• By plane – is the most convenient way to get to Antalya. There are plenty of direct flights to Antalya from most major European cities. As an idea, the price for a plane ticket to Antalya starts at 150 Euro round trip. The airport in Antalya is located only 15 minutes away from the city center.

What I use every time I travel:

• To book hotels: Booking.com
• To book tours:  GetYourGuide.com

Where to stay in Antalya

Before discussing the things to do in Antalya, we must decide where to stay in Antalya and what choices we have regarding locations.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, don’t forget that the real Antalya vacation is outside the resort and is well worth discovering.

However, we must admit that Antalya is one of the top destinations for 5-star hotels, and the services are extraordinary.

The best hotels in Antalya for each budget:

• budget: 
• Tekeli Konaklari   – A hotel located in the old town, Kaleici, only 3 minutes away from the beach. It has traditionally decorated rooms and a large swimming pool in the center; breakfast is included.
• GRAND MIR’AMOR HOTEL & Spa – All Inclusive   –  The second option for a slightly lower budget for Antalya is an all-inclusive resort located one hour from the city center but close to Camyuva beach. The resort is huge, and beautiful and has three swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center, and many other facilities.
• Akra Hotel   – Although it’s part of the average budget category for hotels in Antalya, Akra Hotel is a 5-star resort near Lara beach. You will have a sensational view of the sea and the Taurus Mountains from the room. The resort is perfect for spending 4 days in Antalya, having 4 swimming pools, bar, fitness, spa, and the rest I will let you discover. Check prices and availability here 
• Sealife Family Resort Hotel   – an all-inclusive budget option that offers all the facilities for a dream vacation in Antalya but also a direct view to Konyaalti beach and quick access to it
• luxury: 
• Lara Barut Collection-Ultra All Inclusive   – 8 à la carte restaurants, 3 swimming pools, spa with Turkish baths, beach, and fitness center. Should I continue? Lara Barut is an accommodation in Turkey Antalya that you can’t go wrong with
• Bayou Villas-Ultra All Inclusive   – Although it’s not a beachfront hotel, it’s a new, ultra-luxurious resort, a complex of ultra-modern villas with swimming pools and superb design that reminds me of Bali. It’s the most expensive accommodation in Antalya on this list, but ideal for a few unforgettable days in Antalya or a fairytale honeymoon

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4 Days in Antalya – Best Antalya itinerary

4 days in antalya – day 1 , visit the old town – kaleiçi.

Now that we’ve determined your accommodation options, it’s time to discuss the places to visit in Antalya.

It’s best to start your holiday in Antalya with a walk through the old town , Kaleici. The cobbled streets will take you through whitewashed houses with red roofs, palm trees, ruins of fortified walls, colorful bazaars, and stalls with oranges and pomegranates.

The streets of Kaleici are over two millennia old and represent a combination of two architectural styles, Greek and Ottoman.

You need about 2-3 hours to explore them properly and maybe even more if you want to discover fascinating details.

streets of Kaleici | 4 days in Antalya

One of the buildings in the old town that deserves to be added to your Antalya itinerary is the Tekeli Mehmet Pasha Mosque.

It was built under the Ottoman Empire in the late 18th century and later restored in 1940. Equally imposing is the Clock Tower, the only survivor of the more than 80 towers surrounding the city.

READ ALSO: 14 Best photo spots in Istanbul – Instagrammable places in Istanbul

Take a walk through the old port | Best Antalya itinerary

During the Byzantine period, Antalya was one of the most important port cities on the Mediterranean Sea.

The port near Kaleici used to be the city’s main port until the twentieth century. Now, however, it’s more of a promenade area, with several restaurants, cafes, and even observation points that reveal a fabulous view.

It’s a great place to experience Antalya nightlife, so make room for it during the 4 days in Antalya. 

The port is located in a beautiful landscape, with steep coasts, palm trees, and the Mediterranean Sea’s turquoise water. From here, boat trips generally depart, inviting you to discover the city’s beauties on the water in the best excursions in Antalya.

Therefore, if you’re searching for the best day trips in Antalya , you might want to check the old port.

An observation point to visit in Antalya is the glass terrace that offers you a complete panorama of the port, the sea, and the Taurus Mountains in the background.

You can get here by crossing Kecili Park, with its artesian fountains and wooden sculptures, or by taking the elevator if you are at the bottom.

Check out these amazing tours in Antalya ⇓

The old port | Best Antalya itinerary

Admire Hadrian’s Gate

Continue your day in Antalya with a walk to this fantastic ancient structure.

Three marble carved arches with floral motifs and a few imposing towers are all that remain of the imposing Hadrian’s Gate. It’s located on Atatürk Boulevard, right next to Kaleici.

Hadrian’s Gate was built to mark the visit of the Roman emperor Adrian or Hadrian in 130 A.D. and is practically the only Gate still standing from the Roman Empire.

It’s a beautiful piece of ancient architecture that you can not miss on your walk through the old center, especially as it seems to transition between two worlds, old and new, past and future.

You must add Hadrian’s Gate to your Antalya sightseeing tours, especially since you can visit it for free.

READ ALSO: Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey. The ultimate guide

Hadrian’s Gate | 4 days in Antalya

Visit Karaalioglu Park

Also, next to the old town is the largest park in Antalya, with an impressive area of 140,000 square meters.

Continue your Antalya tours with an afternoon in this park, walking the alleys shaded by palm trees in the garden, and enjoy the views of the park’s observation points.

Karaalioglu Park was built in 1943 and has since become an important social center, mainly during Ramadan when all kinds of dinners are organized, after sunset.

Karaalioglu Park | 4 days in Antalya

Go shopping in the Bazaar | 4 days in Antalya

End your first out of the 4 days in Antalya with a shopping session. You can’t miss the Turkish bazaars, whether you’re on holiday in Antalya or any other city in Turkey.

They are packed with all kinds of products, and you can find beautiful souvenirs, from pillowcases and magnets to fragrant soaps or all sorts of spices.

Don’t forget to try various Turkish sweets, especially Turkish delight, a marvel.

In addition to authentic products, there are all kinds of objects copied by luxury brands. I suggest you avoid those.

The sellers are very kind in general and offer you tea and the possibility to negotiate the price of the products you want to buy. Shopping in Antalya is an experience!

Turkish delight (lokum) | Best Antalya itinerary

4 Days in Antalya – DAY 2

Go to the beach.

A trip to Antalya would be incomplete without the famous blue flag beaches. Some would agree that Konyaalti is the best beach in Antalya.

It is a long beach, stretching over 8 km, surrounded by luxury hotels. Konyaalti is one of the city’s public beaches and can become extremely crowded in the high season.

Although it’s a beautiful beach, don’t expect the finest sand because it’s sand mixed with gravel. You will find many restaurants, cafes, terraces, and places where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas along the beach.

Konyaalti | 4 days in Antalya

Unlike Konyaalti, you will find the fine sand you probably want in Lara. Konyaalti Beach and Lara have a blue flag, meaning that the water is excellent quality and safe to swim in here.

While Konyaalti is located west of the city, Lara is in the opposite direction, in the east.

The water is calmer and a little warmer on Lara beach, making it one of the best things to do in Antalya for families. Of the 15 km that the beach has, only two are public, the rest belonging to the top hotels and ultra-inclusive resorts in Antalya.

Besides the two, Antalya has other more secluded and less crowded beaches, but also much more distant.

So, if you have more than 4 days in Antalya and you want to spend a few hours on a less populated beach in Antalya, consider the following options:

• Moonlight Beach
• Patara Beach

READ ALSO: 21 Best things to do in Istanbul

Visit the Antalya Museum

If you spend your day number 2 on Konyaalti Beach, you could also visit the Antalya Museum in the immediate vicinity.

One of the best things to do in Antalya with kids is to visit the Antalya Museum. It includes 14 halls with exhibits, primarily archaeological discoveries made in the nearby historic cities.

More than 5,000 pieces are waiting to be discovered by museum visitors.

They cover several periods in the history of the place, from prehistory to the Ottoman period. We are talking about Neanderthal skeletons, statuettes found in the ancient city of Perge , and portraits carved in marble.

Best Antalya Itinerary – DAY 3

Düde n waterfalls | best antalya itinerary.

I wrote waterfalls and not waterfall because I’m about to mention two big waterfalls formed on the same river, the Duden river.

The waterfalls are a few km away from each other and are called Upper Düden and Lower Düden . Visiting these waterfalls is one of my favorite excursions in Antalya.

Lower Düden flows directly into the Mediterranean Sea and is 40 meters high.

You can reach the waterfall by passing through a beautifully landscaped park with lawn, flowers, seating areas, playgrounds for children, and even a zip line over the river.

The waterfall can be admired from two perspectives, either from Duden Park or even from the water, in a tour that you can start in the old port .

Visiting the waterfall is one of the best things to do in Antalya because it is just so gorgeous!

Lower Düden | 4 days in Antalya

Equally beautiful are the waterfalls formed much further north, about 20 km away. Upper Duden Falls is also known as Alexander Falls because it is said that Alexander the Great gave water to his horse here.

Besides waterfalls, you can walk in the alleys and enter the caves formed behind the waterfall.

In summer, the place becomes crowded, and many people choose to spend the whole day inside the park.

READ ALSO: Top 15 places to visit in Cappadocia, Turkey

Upper Düden | 4 days in Antalya

Enjoy the view from Tünektepe Teleferik

The landscape of Antalya is so beautiful that it is worth admiring from above.

You can take the Tünektepe cable , which reaches 618 meters above sea level and have a whole panorama of Antalya . It’s definitely something you must add to your 4 days in Antalya itinerary.

The cable car stretches over 1700 meters, includes 36 cabins, and can carry 1200 people per hour.

It’s not allowed to bring food from outside, but there are restaurants and cafes at the top of the mountain, and the panorama is unbeatable.

To get to the cable car’s base, you must go to Konyaalti beach, Sarısu station.

This could also be one of the best things to do in Antalya for families, I’m sure the kids would love to come here.

Tünektepe Teleferik | 4 days in Antalya

Best Antalya Itinerary – DAY 4

River rafting | best antalya itinerary.

Beaches, walks, and relaxation. Is the adrenaline ingredient missing on your 4 days in Antalya itinerary?

No, because the adrenaline is at its highest on the rivers of Antalya. Water sports enthusiasts can go river rafting on the Köprüçay, Manavgat, Dim, Duden, and Alara rivers. The most sought-after is river rafting in the Köprülü canyon .

The Antalya tours that offer such an experience in this city have all the necessary equipment, from a life jacket, helmet, oars, and even lunch.

You only need to bring some joy! Prices start at € 20 per person.

If you want to have memories of and take pictures, make sure you have waterproof photo equipment because it’s impossible not to get wet otherwise.

River rafting on Düden river | 4 days in Antalya

Places to visit near Antalya

The ancient city of perge.

Archaeological sites cannot be missing from the list of places to visit during your 4 days in Antalya.

There are various excursions in Antalya that you can sign in to so you can see these places.

Located 18 km from the city, Perge is an ancient fortress perched on a hill, the former capital of the Pamphylia region.

Perge is one of the oldest cities belonging to the Roman Empire. Studies show that over 200,000 people used to live here.

The most important buildings in Perge are the theater, the stadium, two basilicas, and the agora.

And if we talk about the degree of conservation, the amphitheater would probably receive the first place on the podium. It is enormous, with a capacity of 15 000 seats, and very well preserved.

Day trip to the ruins of Termessos

Built at the foot of the Gulluk Mountains at an altitude of 1050 meters, Termessos is the ideal day trip from Antalya.

The ancient city is now called Termessos National Park , but it’s more of an open-air museum.

We might know many things about Termessos, but one crucial detail is that it was well defended against Alexander the Great, and it was part of the Roman Empire.

The best-preserved elements of the whole complex are the city walls, the Hadrian’s Gate, the cisterns, the theater, and the agora.

You can go to Termessos by car, located at a distance of about 45 km from the city. However, it’s best to come here on a private guided tour because only then will you find fascinating details about the history of these ruins.

Ruins of Termessos | 4 days in Antalya

The Land of Legends | Best Antalya itinerary

Antalya has its own Disneyland! Located 30 km from the city, The Land of Legends is an amusement park that can successfully compete for the most beautiful amusement park in the world. Everything looks like fairytales. The gorgeous castle is the main attraction.

You can come here for shopping, perfect dining experiences, the amusement park, or even stay in this beautiful resort .

The Water Park and the Adventure Park are huge and have plenty of water slides, roller coasters, and other attractions. 

Over 2 million people come here yearly, and it’s considered one of the best things to do in Antalya with kids.

You can come to The Land of Legends by car. The complex has a vast parking lot with over 1300 spaces.

The Land of Legends | 4 days in Antalya

Best things to know before visiting Antalya

The best antaya sightseeing tours.

In addition to the days spent at the beach, a vacation in Antalya also means fun entwined with discovering tourist attractions in the city.

You can best do this on an organized tour. From my point of view, these are the must-do day trips in Antalya:

• city tour, with a visit to the waterfalls and the cable car
• day trip to the surrounding ancient cities
• adrenaline rush in Koprulu Canyon: rafting and zip line
• jeep safari in the Taurus Mountains

Best time to visit Antalya

Spring and autumn are the ideal times to check out the most beautiful places to visit in Antalya if you want to avoid the crowds and heat.

June, July, and August are the hottest months in Antalya and the busiest.

The weather in Antalya is also pleasant from November to March, with an average temperature of 10-20 degrees, but it’s not suitable for swimming.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Antalya would be the end of spring and the beginning of autumn.

• Is Antalya worth visiting?

The answer is obviously yes, considering how beautiful the resort is and how much it offers, including the famous Antalya tours.

Antalya has something for every type of tourist and even for every kind of budget, so it would be good to add it to the list of places to visit if you haven’t already. I hope this 4 days in Antalya itinerary will be helpful to you.

• How to get around in Antalya

To use public transport in Antalya, you need AntalyaKart, which you can buy either from the airport or various city kiosks.

You will only pay the card’s price once, and then you have to recharge it.

You can also travel by taxi, electric scooters, or rent a bike or car for the entire duration of your stay. On average, renting a car per day in Antalya is $ 40.

Taking a taxi in Antalya is a perfect option. The cost of a taxi in Antalya depends a lot on the distance. The taxi price is generally reasonable in Antalya and other touristic places in Turkey.

For example, for 10 km, expect to pay $5 on average.

Best places to eat in Antalya

In terms of gastronomy, Antalya is what you need. Here you will find absolutely everything your heart desires, from seafood, vegetables, barbecue, kebap, and other Turkish dishes, to international cuisine.

There are places for all budgets, so I recommend you not necessarily go for the all-inclusive option. Accommodations with breakfast in Antalya included could be a good option.

There are a lot of places where you can eat well, but these are the best restaurants in Antalya in my opinion

• Yemenli Meyhanesi
• Kaleici Meyhanesi Konyaalti
• Fatma Sultan Restaurant (Turk MutfagI)
• Ayar Meyhanesi
• Hayat Restaurant
• Is Antalya safe?

I can confirm from my experience that I had no problems in Antalya. It’s a very touristic city, and the people are very civilized.

Minor incidents can occur, as in every place, but overall you can walk without problems almost anywhere and at whatever time you want.

Take the safety measures you would have taken in any other site considered safe, and everything will be ok. So, the answer to the question “Is Antalya safe?” is yes.

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7 Wonderful things to do in Antalya, Turkey

Often referred to as the pearl of the Turkish Riviera, Antalya and its stunning coastline are famed as one of the best summer destinations in Turkey , if not Europe.

While I can’t deny Antalya’s phenomenal beaches and pleasant temperature, I also know that this is merely a fraction of what Turkey’s number-one beach getaway has to offer.

The starting point of all these incredible things to see and do is the old town; Antalya’s historical centre, celebrated for its maze-like cobblestone laneways, lively harbour and ancient Roman structures.

Add to that incredible nature (make sure you check out the Düden Waterfalls), loads of excellent dining options, and several exciting day trips within reach, and you understand why Antalya has become a favourite among travellers and locals alike.

To help you make the most out of your time here, I’ve created this Antalya guide, including my favourite things to see and do, where to stay, travel tips and more.

So whether you solely visit Antalya for everything beach related or wish to dive deeper into the history of this fascinating town on the paradisiac Turkey coast, I’ve got you covered!

WHERE IS ANTALYA

Antalya is a popular beachside destination on Turkey’s picturesque southwest coast and is flanked by the incredible Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.

With over 1 million inhabitants – and loads of travellers during the summer months, the capital of the Antalya region is considered Turkey’s fifth-most populous city.

WHERE TO STAY IN ANTALYA

As one of the main summer destinations along Turkey’s paradisiac Mediterranean coast, Antalya is home to accommodation that cater to every budget and travel style.

Whether you’re after an upscale beachfront resort, a comfortable apartment with a swimming pool, or something in between, this coastal town is teeming with brilliant accommodation options.

All that is left to do, is pick the right accommodation for you –  to make choosing easier, I’ve listed some of my personal favourites below:

APARTMENTS & HOTELS IN ANTALYA

Casa Sur Antalya | Situated in the heart of Antalya Old Town, this place is easily one of my most authentic finds in Antalya. The rooms are minimalistic, yet utterly stylish – think brick walls, wooden furniture, patterned carpets, and rustic design elements. It also boasts a garden of calm with plenty of comfy lounge corners as well as a rooftop terrace with views over Hadrian’s Gate.

Pacco Boutique Hotel & SPA | If you’re looking for a comfortable boutique hotel without breaking the bank, Pacco Boutique Hotel & SPA is a high-rated hotel with a spacious outdoor swimming pool for less than €60,- a night. It also has direct access to Konyaalti Beach, a trendy bar, several lounge areas, and an in-house fitness centre.

Elegance East Hotel | As the name might already suggest, the Elegance East Hotel is probably the most elegant hotel in Antalya Old Town. Traditional Kaleici architecture set the tone for an excellent stay, while a large outdoor pool and its prime location in the historical centre offer you the ultimate holiday feeling. Make sure you click the link to see if this palace-like hotel is for you.

BEACHFRONT RESORTS IN ANTALYA

Ramada Plaza Antalya | Just 700 metres from Antalya’s historic Kaleiçi, Ramada Plaza offers world-class service, modern spacious rooms with sea view, a swimming pool, and a superb sundeck on a cliff next to the Mediterranean. Ramada Plaza also offers all-inclusive stays for those craving a fully arranged summer getaway.

Rixos Downtown Antalya | Set within the exotic gardens of the Ataturk Culture Park, this luxurious hotel offers the best of both worlds. With extremely comfortable rooms, a large outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and an excellent location next to Konyaalti Beach, Rixos offers all the amenities for a relaxing stay. Add that you’re only a stone throws away from the lively old town and its historical ambience, and it is clear why Rixos is travellers favourite in Antalya.

Alternatively, search for accommodations in Antalya on booking.com .

7 WONDERFUL THINGS TO DO IN ANTALYA, TURKEY

1 | take a walk around kaleiçi | antalya old town.

I fairly believe that any trip to Antalya should involve at least one day of explorations in its most picturesque part; Antalya Old Town, locally known as Kaleiçi.

Perched between the Mediterranean and Antalya’s somewhat chaotic city centre, Kaleiçi is a charming old town full of maze-like cobblestone laneways, historical architecture, and trendy cafes and restaurants.

Although Antalya Old Town is pretty compact in size, it is home to several intriguing historical sights, including Hadrian’s Gate, Hidirlik Tower, and the Yivli Minaret to name a few.

I’ve spent plenty of time in the streets of Antalya Old Town, and have to say that it’s best explored on an early morning walk when the temperature is still bearable and the light perfect for photography.

If you’re in the mood for a tasty dinner or a few late-night drinks, the old town has plenty of excellent options to satisfy those needs too.

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Antalya Old Town

2 | ADMIRE THE ANCIENT YIVLI MINARE

Rising high above Antalya Old Town is the ancient Yivli Minare, an incredibly elegant ‘fluted’ minaret that is known as the symbol of Antalya.

The towering minaret and its adjacent mosque were built in the early 13th century by Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubad I, and are still very much in use today.

Besides its value to serve worshippers, the ornate building is also one of the best visited historical monuments in the region, as it displays the beauty of Anatolian Seljuk architecture.

Something worth noticing is an ancient inscription placed next to the entrance of the Yivli Minare, as it seems to illustrate the building process of the minaret.

Merely for its distinctive Turkish Anatolian design, the Yivli Minare should be on any list of things to do in Antalya. Luckily, it is inevitable that you’ll encounter this towering masterpiece when planning a visit to the historic old town.

Where | Yivli Minare, Antalya Old Town

3 | SWIM AND RELAX AT KONYAALTI BEACH

You can’t come to one of Europe’s hottest summer destinations and not spend at least a couple of days relaxing on a lounger next to the inviting Mediterranean sea.

And if you ask me, there’s no better place to do so than at Konyaalti Beach.

Situated at only a short walk of Antalya Old Town, this extensive pebbly beach is one of Antalya’s best beaches and perfectly suited for an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming.

Konyaalti Beach is also backed by a lively boulevard that is packed with trendy restaurants and cafes, public shower facilities, and incredible views of the Taurus Mountains in the distance.

All in all, Konyaalti Beach has everything on offer for a lazy beach day under the Turkish sun.

Where | Konyaalti Beach

Cost | Sun loungers and umbrellas should cost 20 to 40 TL (€2 – 4) a day

Bring | Swimwear, a towel and a good book

4 | BEHOLD THE RUSHING DÜDEN WATERFALLS

Nestled on a towering cliff on Antalya’s stunning coastline, the Lower Düden Waterfall is a 40-metre high waterfall that flows directly into the Mediterranean.

While I’ve seen quite a few waterfalls throughout my travels, this was the first time I’ve seen one ending in the ocean, which makes the Lower Düden Waterfall a pretty unique sight to behold.

It was in fact, one of the most surprising places that I’ve stumbled upon in Antalya.

But as impressive as the Lower Düden Waterfall might be, the Düden Waterfalls are actually a set of two separate waterfalls that are interconnected by a stream.

Unfortunately, I only heard of the Upper Düden Waterfall after leaving for Istanbul , but from what I’ve heard it must be equally as impressive as the Lower Düden Waterfall.

So if you have a day spare, you now know what to do with it!

Where | Düden Waterfalls

Recommended tour | This 8-hour tour of Antalya includes a boat ride to the Lower Düden Waterfall – plus a trip to the Upper Düden Waterfall and Antalya Old Town. Prices and availability here

5 | ADMIRE HADRIAN’S GATE

During my travels, I often feel fascinated by the greatness of the former Roman Empire and the amount of incredible ancient architecture that they actually left behind.

It was the ornate Hadrian’s Gate that initiated this exact feeling in Antalya.

Built in the name of Roman emperor Hadrian back in 130 AD, this triumphal arch is now one of Antalya’s most important historical sights, and entering the old town through it is quite a happening.

If you look closely, you’ll notice that the two towers on either side of the gate hold architectural elements that indicate different periods in history.

Most notable is an Arabic inscription that dates back to the reign of Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubat on the upper part of the Northern Tower.

At present, Hadrian’s Gate is the only remaining entrance gate to Kaleiçi (old town), and therefore the perfect starting point for explorations within it.

Where | Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya Old Town

6 | WATCH THE SUNSET IN KALEICI HARBOUR

When wandering through the twisting laneways of Antalya Old Town, you’re fortunately never too far from the old town’s picture-perfect Harbour.

Tactically situated at the core of Antalya’s fortified old town, the Kaleici Harbour is a hip and happening place that is bursting with positive energy, especially on a warm summer’s evening.

Whether you’re planning to enjoy a few sunset drinks in a trendy bar, take a relaxing evening stroll with a scoop of gelato in hand, or sit down at a dock to take in the sunset instead, you’re ensured of a wonderful evening anyhow.

Where | Kaleici Harbour, Antalya Old Town

7 | SPEND AN AFTERNOON RELAXING IN KARAALIOGLU PARK

Taking it easy in Antalya’s lush Karaalioglu Park is easily one of my favourite things to do in Antalya, as it’s a great way to see daily local life unfold.

Situated at only a stone’s throw away from Antalya Old Town, the Karaalioglu Park is a large oasis of calm where locals and travellers alike come to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

In addition to an extensive collection of imposing exotic plants and trees, the park is also home to the Hidirlik Kalesi, a striking Roman structure that dates back nearly 2.000 years ago.

Add to that the shimmering Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains as its backdrop, and you instantly realize why Karaalioglu Park has become such a popular summer hangout.

Where | Karaalioglu Park, Antalya Old Town

WEATHER IN ANTALYA | BEST TIME TO VISIT ANTALYA

Given its position in the Mediterranean, Antalya is an attractive destination at any time of year.

However, I believe most of you travel to a beach destination to enjoy good weather, and in that case, the best time to visit Antalya is between April and October, when temperatures reach up to 36 degrees, especially in the peak summer months of June, July and August.

With long summer days overflowing with the sun, the conditions are excellent for spending time poolside or at the beach, while explorations around the old town are completely possible too.

One thing worth mentioning is that summertime in Turkey is pretty popular, meaning you’ll share the beach with many sun-seeking tourists during the peak season.

HOW TO GET AROUND ANTALYA

With so many awesome places near Antalya (Pamukkale, Purge and Aspendos just to name a few), picking up a rental at the airport is actually one of the best things you can do.

If you wish to have the freedom to travel around Antalya on your own terms, you might want to consider renting a car. Not only is it easier to reach the nearby highlights, but it also saves you time and money.

For car rental in Turkey , I would recommend searching for an option that suits your needs on  Rentalcars.com. They offer excellent service, additional insurance, and a broad selection of cars, all at an affordable price. More information and availability here .

MY FAVOURITE DAY TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN ANTALYA

If you’re after an organized tour of Antalya and its surroundings, here are some of the best picks.

HOW TO GET TO ANTALYA

As a major summer destination in Europe, you’ll be amazed at how easy it actually is to get to Antalya via plane, especially during the peak summer months.

Both Domestic and International flights arrive at the Antalya Airport , located only 13 kilometres northeast of Antalya’s picturesque old town.

For cheap flights to Antalya, make sure you check out Skyscanner . Not only is their website user-friendly, but they also offer a large range of airline options – plus it’s easy to find good rates.

A shuttle bus leaves from the Antalya Airport every 30 minutes and takes you to the city centre in roughly 50 minutes. A one-way ticket costs 3,60 TL (€0,70) per person.

If you prefer some extra comfort, taxis are a relatively cheap alternative too. A taxi should cost no more than 60 TL (€15,-), and takes only 20 minutes.

SAFETY IN TURKEY | TRAVEL INSURANCE

While Turkey is completely safe for travellers, I always aim to enter a foreign country with my travel insurance sorted out, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer to assume that everything runs smoothly during our travels, the reality is often that something can go wrong at any given moment – when that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

KEEP ON READING WITH THESE IN-DEPTH TURKEY GUIDES

After spending 3 weeks in Turkey, I’ve made plenty of in-depth guides that might interest you too.

CAPPADOCIA | 13 Wonderful things to do in Cappadocia

CAPPADOCIA HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT | A guide to a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia

RED & ROSE VALLEY IN CAPPADOCIA | A hiking guide to Red and Rose Valley

LOVE VALLEY IN CAPPADOCIA | A complete guide to Love Valley in Cappadocia

ANTALYA | 7 Wonderful things to do in Antalya

ISTANBUL | 13 Awesome things to do in Istanbul

PLAN YOUR TURKEY ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES

A guide to the Red & Rose Valley in Cappadocia

A guide to a Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia

13 Awesome things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

13 Wonderful things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey

A complete guide to Love Valley in Cappadocia, Turkey

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Welcome to Antalya - Turkey

Welcome to iAntalya, your holiday guide to Antalya, Turkey

Antalya , known as the  Pearl of the Mediterranean  and the  Turkish Riviera , is one of the most popular tourist destinations in both Turkey and Europe. Situated on the Mediterranean coast of southern Turkey, the Antalya region is home to great holiday resorts and towns that all offer a combination of sea, sun, beaches, relaxation, history, culture and nightlife. The region is very ideal for family or beach holidays as it has a year-round sunshine.

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Antalya region has one of the best attractions and sights for every holidaymaker searching for lovely beaches, natural wonders, ancient cities, archaeological sites, day trips, theme parks, and many more. You’ll find loads of joyful things to do in Antalya. Find all things to do, days out, attractions and sightseeing in Antalya, what’s on, festivals and events, tours, restaurants and hotels. Plan your holidays and trip to Antalya with our useful traveler information.

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Home » Travel Guides » Turkey » 15 Best Things to Do in Antalya (Turkey)

15 Best Things to Do in Antalya (Turkey)

What is today the largest resort on the Turkish Riviera was founded on a rocky piece of coast by a King of Pergamon in the 2nd century BCE as a harbour for his powerful fleet.

In the centuries before, cities had cropped up nearby, all over the ancient Pamphylia region, some falling to Alexander the Great, and some resisting his conquest.

The magnificent ruins of Termessos, Perge and Aspendos are tantalisingly close, and have also given up many thousands of artefacts now on display at the excellent Antalya Archaeological Museum.

Antalya is being developed at a dizzying rate, with malls, glitzy hotels and beach clubs crowding the coastline east and west of the city.

But there’s also spellbinding natural splendour to be found, at waterfalls, luxurious beaches and the colossal Bey and Taurus Mountains.

As you make your way through the knotted alleys of Antalya’s old town you may get a little thrill to think that people have been walking these streets for more than 2,000 years.

As well as being strewn with traces from Antalya’s distant past, Kaleiçi is a walkable enclave of peace in an otherwise hectic city.

We’ll talk about the grand Hadrian’s Gate and the Fluted Minaret a little later, but another of the structures that defines Kaleiçi silhouette is the Kesik Minare (Broken Minaret). This mosque, badly damaged in a 19th-century fire has stonework from a Roman temple and Byzantine basilica, and in 2019 its minaret was given a new conical crown.

Another icon is the crenellated clock tower standing sentry at the entrance to the old town opposite the 17th-century Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque.

This is one of the last of the 80 towers in Antalya defensive walls.

2. Düden Waterfalls

Now, the first thing to note about the Düden Waterfalls is that there are two locations several kilometres apart.

The must-see is the lower falls (Karpuzkaldiran Waterfall), set between Antalya and Lara.

Here the Düden River plunges 40 metres over the tawny cliffs into the Mediterranean.

A park has been set up to help you get the most out of this natural wonder, complete with playgrounds for little ones, scenic terraces and a zip-line crossing the river just before it hurtles over the cliff.

You can view the falls from the water on a cruise setting off from Antalya’s old harbour.

Inland, the upper falls also deserve your time, where the river spills over a small rocky ledge rich with vegetation, and you can take a path that leads you behind the curtain of water.

3. Antalya Archaeological Museum

Being in the ancient Pamphylia region which extended from the Mediterranean coastline into the Taurus mountains, Antalya has a first-class archaeological heritage.

No shock then that the Antalya Archaeological Museum is one of the best in the country, and an obligatory stop on any holiday to the city.

More than 5,000 pieces are on show at any time, across 13 halls covering every period from prehistory to Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman times, as well life in the Antalya countryside in the early 20th century.

Of course, the ancient artefacts inspire the most fascination, running from coins, to status, sarcophagi, wine bowls, jewellery and figurines.

One outstanding piece is a 2nd-century marble sarcophagus with reliefs depicting the Twelve Labours of Hercules, while the statuary hall is loaded with 2nd and 3rd-century Roman carvings of Mythological figures like Zeus, Artemis, Aphrodite, Hecate, Hermes and Minerva, to name a small few.

4. Kurşunlu Waterfall

Northeast of Antalya, one of the tributaries of the Aksu River descends from the plateau to the coastal plain through a canyon two kilometres long.

There, in a 600-hectare nature park you’ll encounter the gorgeous Kurşunlu Waterfall.

Surrounded by pine forest, this has one main drop, from a height of 18 metres, but there’s a chain of seven splash pools in the canyon, each fed by smaller cascades.

You can take in this natural wonder along a walking loop, cut from the rock and taking about 45 minutes.

And as there’s ample shade and a cooling mist the walk never feels taxing.

By the entrance to the park there’s also a picnic area and viewing terrace, served by a restaurant and playground for wee ones.

Three buses shuttle between the centre of Antalya and the falls, but a taxi our organised tour may be the most comfortable options.

5. Perge (Perga)

The first of a few ancient sites that need to be visited is the city of Perge about 15 kilometres east of Antalya.

Perge was inhabited as early 1209 BCE, and in turn was ruled by the Persians, Athenians, Alexander the Great, the Seleucids and then the Romans.

One renowned inhabitant was Apollonius of Perga, the astronomer and geometer from the 2nd century BCE who defined the geometric terms “parabola”, “hyperbola” and “ellipse”. Perge has been excavated over the last 70 years and there’s much to discover, like the agora and its intact pillars, the Roman theatre with remarkable bas-reliefs in its skene, the Roman baths and palestra (wrestling school) in front, the nyphaeum, necropolis and solemn city gates.

Work is ongoing at Perge, and in the last few years some masterful Greek mosaics have been unearthed, including an image of the sacrifice of Iphigenia in 2017. Check out the “Perge, Side, Aspendos & Waterfalls Guided Tour” on GetYourGuide.

com for an action-packed day zipping from one ancient city to the next, pausing at the Kurşunlu Waterfall on the way back to Antalya.

6. Hadrian’s Gate

This magnificent triumphal arch, just off Atatürk Boulevard, was built in the 2nd Century BCE to mark the visit of Emperor Hadrian to Antalya.

The gate has three arches, between which are four columns on each side.

If you’ve got an eye for classical architecture you’ll notice that the column capitals are composite, combining Ionic volutes with Corinthian acanthus leaves.

The gate is flanked to the north and south by tough defensive towers, both of which have stood here in some form since Roman times.

Also take a look at the entablature over the arches, which has kept hold of many of its original rosettes and lion heads on its frieze and cornice.

7. Konyaaltı Beach

Seven kilometres from edge of the city down to Antalya’s modern container port, Konyaaltı Beach is the most convenient public beach to the centre of Antalya.

A mix of coarse sand and pebbles, the beach has moderate surf, although it pitches quite steeply in the sea at times.

As you relax you’ll see Antalya at the apex of the gulf, and can look down to the epic Bey Mountains to the southwest through the haze.

One of many things to love about the beach is its promenade, through an avenue of palm trees and bordered by grassy spaces with playgrounds and cafes.

8. Tünektepe Teleferik

There’s an undeniable allure to the Bey Mountains, the sharp slopes of which can be reached behind the container port.

Here you can catch a cable car running for 1,700 metres up the vertiginous face of the 618-metre Tünek Tepe hill, to a lookout with a hotel, nightclub, cafe, rotating restaurant, playground and bazaar for traditional crafts.

Like so much of what you see in Antalya, the cable car is a recent arrival, begun in 2013 and ready for the 2017 season.

In 2020 an adult ticket was 15TL (approx $2.40). Needless to say the panoramas are fabulous, and you can peer through binoculars back to over the gulf to Antalya.

9. Karaalioglu Park

Southwest of the walls and within a short walk of Kaleiçi is a park hoisted on the cliffs, with views of the Gulf of Antalya.

Here you can take a leisurely walk, sipping Turkish tea under the pines and stopping on the main terrace to see the Mediterranean and the shadowy Bey Mountains.

Karaalioglu Park has a smattering of cafes, as well as a children’s playground, and some key landmarks like the mayor’s office, municipal theatre and the historic Hıdırlık Tower.

This coastal defence in the northwest corner has a Roman base from the 2nd century, topped by an Ottoman cylindrical tower.

However you spend your time in Antalya, try to be in Karaalioglu Park when the sun goes down.

10. Old Harbour

Walking Kaleiçi’s alleys it’s just a matter of time before gravity beckons you down to the harbour that gave birth to Antalya, squeezed into a craggy recess in the coastline.

Skirted by the crenellated walls of the old city, the frenetic, tree-lined quaysides are in the old harbour are the point of departure for boat trips out to sights like the Lower Düden Waterfall.

You won’t need an agent to book a seat, but you may need to haggle.

These cruise boats are port-to-starboard with all sorts of other vessels, from private yachts to little fishing boats.

Walk out along the southern wall to the beacon at the harbour entrance for a complete view of the quays, jetties, Antalya’s rocky coastline and those sturdy old defensive walls.

11. Aspendos

Just past Serik, off the Antalya-Alanya highway (D400) you’ll come to the ruins of a city that for a time was the most important in the ancient Pamphylia region.

Aspendos grew up on a plateau, a short way inland from the mouth of the Eurymedon, and reached its apogee in the 5th century BCE, trading wool, oil and salt via the navigable river.

The headline at Aspendos is the theatre from the 2nd century BCE.

Praised for its incomparable level of preservation, this monument is almost 100 metres in diameter and can seat 12,000. It’s a breathtaking venue for the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival every September.

Nearby are the ruins of an aqueduct, basilica, nymphaeum, agora and the Roman bridge on the Eurymedon that was rebuilt in the 13th century.

The remains at Aspendos are all the more spectacular against the craggy mass of the Taurus Mountains, commanding the horizon the north.

12. Termessos

On this excursion you’ll travel up into the Taurus Mountains to discover one of Turkey’s best-preserved ancient cities, wreathed in pine forest on a rocky podium in the Mount Güllük-Termessos National Park.

This rocky perch has ensured its survival and also made it unconquerable: Alexander the Great gave up in the 4th century BCE.

You’ll hear Termessos described as a “Turkish Machu Picchu”, and like Aspendos, the show-stopper is the theatre.

High behind the stage is the monolithic peak of Mount Solymos (Güllük Dağı) and the mostly intact auditorium enjoys a staggering view over the Pamphylian plain.

The road into Termessos is lined with ancient rock cut tombs, and some other sights waiting for you are the agora, city walls, gymnasium, odeon and the vestiges of six temples.

13. Lara Beach

Past the airport east of Antalya proper is another Blue Flag beach, along a stretch of coast that is almost unrecognisable from just 20 years ago.

On the coastal road behind Lara Beach are statement hotels and high-rise apartment blocks, interspersed with shopping malls and new tourist attractions.

Down on the beach, much of this long, dusky sweep of sand and shingles is private, and has rows of sun-loungers attached to hotels.

The public end is to the west, at the eastern terminus for a handful of bus lines from Antalya.

Evenings are special at Lara, when you can watch the sun setting behind the Bey Mountains across the gulf.

14. Yivliminare Mosque

The Anatolian Seljuk Sultan, Kayqubad I (1188-1237) ordered this mosque, which was destroyed in the 14th century and reconstructed in the 1370s on the foundations of a Byzantine church.

An abiding part of the Kaleiçi cityscape is the 38-metre minaret, called the “fluted minaret” for the eight long grooves in its red brick shaft.

In the mosque’s heyday these flutes were clad with blue glazed tiles.

The Yivliminare Mosque is a functioning place of worship, paced on the tentative list of Turkish UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2016. For non-Muslims it’s a beautiful waymarker appearing from time to time between the houses as you plot a course through Kaleiçi’s alleys.

15. Antalya Aquarium

Moments from Konyaaltı Beach is an aquarium that opened in 2012 and has more than 60 themed and labelled tanks, the largest of which holds over five million litres.

You can experience this environment through a 131-metre glass tunnel, the biggest in the world and with sharks, rays and tropical fish swimming overhead and around the wrecks of an aircraft and submarine.

Try to be here at 12:00 when you can see the aquarium staff in scuba gear feeding this marine life by hand.

The 1,500-square-metre Snow World is an ice museum, with a new sprinkling of snow every night and a constant temperature of -5°C.

The aquarium’s WildPark is a tropical space keeping venomous snakes, chameleons, frogs and crocodiles in terrariums, while you can watch a thrilling underwater show at the XD Cinema.

15 Best Things to Do in Antalya (Turkey):

• Düden Waterfalls
• Antalya Archaeological Museum
• Kurşunlu Waterfall
• Perge (Perga)
• Hadrian's Gate
• Konyaaltı Beach
• Tünektepe Teleferik
• Karaalioglu Park
• Old Harbour
• Yivliminare Mosque
• Antalya Aquarium

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• Ancient Ruines
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