travel antalya turkey

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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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.

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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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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.

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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.

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ANTALYA, TURKEY

Antalya is a beautiful city located on the South West Coast of Turkey , along what is known as the “Turkish Riviera”. It was our first taste of the Southern Coast of Turkey, and we immediately fell in love with it. With beaches, mountains, sea cliffs, crystal clear Turquoise waters and incredible History, there is truly something to keep everyone happy in Antalya. So today I have decided to put together my Ultimate Guide to Antalya to give you all the information you need to visit.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on those links and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you I will get a small commission. This will go a long way toward keeping this website running. As always, thank you for your support! Click HERE for more information.

Antalya is a place that we almost didn’t even go to. We honestly knew nothing about it before we arrived, other than looking at a couple of photos. Coming from Cappadocia , we decided to head to the south coast and needed a good place to start, and geographically Antalya seemed to fit the bill. Now, we are SO GLAD we chose it.

We fell in love with Antalya, and found it hard to move on. It is the perfect stop, whether you are looking to explore, discover history, or just to relax. Antalya has you covered.

Table of Contents

Best time to visit, where is antalya, how many days do you need in antalya, how to get to antalya, things to do in antalya, day trips from antalya, where to stay in antalya, how to get around in antalya, where to eat in antalya, about antalya.

The city of Antalya was founded around the year 200 AD, and conquered by the Roman Empire not long after. The city thrived, becoming a very important port in the Empire, and strategic stronghold along the shores of the Mediterranean. Neighboring cities and towns also shared in the bounties that the Roman Empire brought to Antalya.

Today, Antalya is the main attraction along the popular Turkish Riviera. Remnants of the Roman Empire still exist, and along with its beautiful beaches, mountains and other natural features, there is little wonder why it is a favorite among Turkish Holiday makers.

The city has gone a long way toward preserving the relics of its past. Hadrian’s Gate stands as a beacon to the Roman Empire that once ruled, and many Ottoman style buildings still line the streets of the Old Town. Visitors are able to see and experience everything that Antalya has to offer with the use of the wonderful public transport system, and have the ease of coming and going via the modern International Airport.

It is no wonder that Antalya is one of the favorite cities in Turkey.

If you want to get the most out of your Antalya trip, then the best times to visit are in Spring and Autumn. That means April to June and September to October. This is when the seasons are at their best, avoiding the heat of the Summer and the cold of Winter.

Having said that, on my most recent visit we were there at the end of November. I am told it was unseasonably warm, but I got around each day in Jeans and a t-shirt. So you CAN get lucky with the weather, but stick to the seasons listed above and you should get the best of it!

Antalya is located on the South West coast of Turkey, and is a part of Anatolia. It is the 5th largest city in Turkey, and the largest Turkish City located along the Mediterranean Coastline, outside of those in the Aegean.

Geographically, Antalya is bordered by the Taurus Mountains, and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a favorite destination for holiday makers from all over Turkey.

You will need anywhere from 2 days to 4 days in Antalya. This depends upon what you want to do when you are there, and how much of the city that you would like to see. If you are planning to get out of the city and do trips to places such as Olympos, then you should add an extra day.

Most of what you will want to see in Antalya can be found around the central parts of the city. Especially for a first time visitor, and that can be seen easily in a couple of days. Add on an extra couple of days to see sights a little further afield, and possibly for day trips.

On our first trip to Antalya we spent 4 days. That was plenty of time to see everything that we wanted to see, and we even visited old town on several occasions. If you take the information I provide in this guide, it should also let you hit the ground running, without the need to try and discover it for yourself.

Getting to Antalya is easy, as it is one of the larger cities in Turkey, so there are major routes available for travelers to take.

Flying is the number one option for those that are limited for time in Turkey. Antalya actually has an International airport, which has TWO international terminals. It sees millions of passengers pass through each year, as it is a major destination on the holiday coast of Turkey. There are also constant domestic flights arriving and departing from all over Turkey, with the flight time from Istanbul only 1 hour 15 min.

The other popular way to get to Antalya is by bus. There is a major hub located just outside of the city center that caters to every bus company in Turkey. This is an option for those on a budget, and buses are arriving and departing at all times of the day and night. The most popular route is definitely for buses from Antalya to Cappadocia, which only takes around 8 hours. This is how we arrived in Antalya on our first visit.

Guide to Antalya Tip – Both the airport and the bus terminal are connected to the city center by public transport, with the tram line and bus now running to both. So skip the taxi and look at using them to save money!

Antalya is a city with a wonderful history and amazing geography. Therefore it stands to reason that there is plenty to do in and around the city. You don’t have to go far to really begin exploring, and you will probably find that your first couple of days will be spent right within the city itself.

With that being said, let’s take a look at the the Guide to Antalya things to do .

• Walk the streets of Old Town – This is right at the top of the list for any visitor to Antalya. Old Town is a collection of cobbled streets lined with pubs, restaurants, shops and marvelous architecture. I personally spent a couple of days wandering the streets, finding hidden alleys and quaint cafes.
• Visit Hadrian’s Gate – This amazing gate is probably the most well known feature of Antalya. Standing at the entrance to Old Town, it is 2000 years old and still in incredible condition. You can walk right under the arch, and follow the same path as Romans did as far back as the 2nd century AD.
• Stroll around the Ancient Harbor – The absolute center of Kaleici Old Town, this ancient Roman Harbor has been the central focus of the city for 2000 years, and is still a centerpiece in modern day. A great place to lunch, take a cruise or sit and watch the sun set over the mountains.
• Explore Karaalioglu Park – Just a short walk from Old Town you will find this incredible park running along the tops of the cliffs. It’s a great place for a stroll, to have a coffee, or to take in the sunset in the evenings.
• Take a Cruise – Cruises run from the Old Town Harbor, and are very popular with tourists and locals. The most popular of all is the cruise down the coastline to Duden Waterfalls.
• Be amazed at Duden Waterfalls – These amazing waterfalls are located East of the city, and feature a cascade that plummets 50 meters down the cliff face into the Ocean!
• Take in the views from the Telerifik – Take the Cable Car 1700 meters up to Tunek Tepe, a lookout on top of the hills overlooking the city and surrounds. With the most incredible views in the area, this is NOT to be missed. NOTE – the Telerifik is closed on Mondays!
• Stroll through the Ancient streets of Perge – The Ancient City of Perge is located 15 KM East of Antalya, and dates back as far as about 1200 BC. Spend the day wandering through the remains of a long lost civilization, and following the path of those such as Alexander the Great, who once walked its streets.
• Soak up the sun at Konyaalti Beach – This beach is not the classic sand beach you might be used to. Instead it is made of pebbles, however don’t let that put you off. It is a favorite for locals and visitors, is a great place to swim or soak up the sun, and has a huge waterfront area with cycleway, parks and restaurants for miles!

Guide to Antalya Tip – Use public transport. You can get to most of the places on this list by utilising the bus and tram networks!

There is much to do within Antalya itself, but like many places in Turkey, there are things laying just outside, around or further afield that you just don’t want to miss. These are things you will want to visit when you are in Antalya, or could base yourself in Antalya to do them on day trips.

Here are the Guide to Antalya list of the best day trips that you can do from Antalya.

• Perge, Side, Aspendos a nd Waterfalls Guided Tour – This tour is all about history, as you visit the ancient cities of the region. Learn all about the Ancient Romans that built these wonders, before taking a refreshing dip in a waterfall.
• Taurus Mountains full day Jeep safari – This tour is all about adventure. Get off the beaten path into the Taurus mountains in a Jeep. Visit local villages and swim in refreshing natural pools.
• Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour with Lunch – A full day trip that starts early in the morning with hotel pickup and a few hours drive to incredible Pamukkale, where you will witness the world famous Cotton Castle Pools. From there a visit to the ancient city of Hierapolis before heading home again.
• Antalya City Tour and Duden Waterfalls with Boat Trip – This tour will take you all around the city with a local guide, seeing sights such as the famous Hadrian’s Gate, before a boat trip down the coast to witness the Duden Waterfalls plummeting into the ocean from the unique vantage point of the ocean itself.
• Antalya City Tour, Waterfalls and Cable Car – This tour will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the cable car up to the most scenic spot around the city. This is followed by visits to the Duden Waterfalls, and Karpuz Kaldıran Waterfall.
• Kekova Su nk en City, Demre and Lycia Tour – Set sail to Kekova Island where you will board a glass bottomed boat to view the sunken city of Kekova. A truly unique experience!

Guide to Antalya Tip – There are many places that you can book tours in Antalya. Stick with a trusted company like Getyourguide via one of the above links, as they do their homework and only deal with the very best, most experienced operators.

If you are heading to Antalya, then I suggest you to stay around the area in the center of the city, near Old Town. Especially if you are a first time visitor to the city. It is easy to get around, you are close to everything, and only a short bus or tram ride from the beach.

Here are the Guide to Antalya suggestions for where to stay in Antalya.

CASA SUR ANTALYA

The Casa Sur Antalya is a little piece of paradise right in the middle of Antalya. Featuring wonderful garden areas that guests love and constantly rave about, this hotel will leave you wanting more. Amazing service, attention to detail and staff who go above and beyond makes this the place you will want to book on your next visit to Antalya.

GIGES KING BOUTIQUE HOTEL

What could be better than a highly rated boutique hotel located right in the heart of Kaleici Old Town? Walking distance to everywhere, getting spoiled with tailored breakfasts, a refreshing pool, all set in a classic Ottoman Style Hotel. Could it get any better?

LA CASA CARINA BUTIK HOTEL

With kind and accommodating owners who will oversea your every need with minute detail, it will be hard to believe you are in a budget hotel. Located right in the middle of Old Town, this place is in the perfect choice, close to everything but still away from all the noise.

Looking for the best Budget accommodation? Hostelworld have you covered with all of the very best budget friendly accommodation around town. Check them out at THIS LINK .

Getting around in Antalya is easy. Despite being the 5th largest city in Turkey, the part that you will be visiting is not that big. And to get to outlying areas, the city of Antalya has you covered with Public transport options.

Firstly , there is the good old getting around on foot option. If you stay central, then your first couple of days will probably see you walking nearly everywhere. There is so much to see and do in the central part of Antalya that you won’t need to worry about anything else.

Second , there is the bus. They run everywhere in Antalya, and are easy to find and catch. The bus routes are even made easy for you as well. For example, two places we wanted to go were the Cable car (telerifik) to the West, and Duden Waterfalls to the East. The same bus took us to both!

The third option is the tram. There is a great tram system in Antalya that connects the airport and bus terminals to the city center. This tram is used by locals and visitors to get swiftly around the city as well. There is also a nostalgic tram that runs from the city center along the coast, which is a great way to move about as well. In particular for getting from Old Town to the Beaches to the West of the city.

Guide to Antalya Tip – If you are going to be using the Public Transport system, get yourself an AntalyaKart. It is a swipe on card to use on all public transport that can be easily topped up with cash at the handy machines. It works the same way as IstanbulKart.

There are many great places to eat around the central mall and surrounding streets of Antalya. If you are on a budget, then you can also find many places that sell cheap kebabs and Pide as well. These MAY be a little more expensive in the center of Antalya City than a little further out though.

On our most recent visit to Antalya, we found a few great places to eat that really fit a low budget. They were mostly around where we were staying, but I will list a couple of our favorite places here.

• Sariyer Borek Simitevi – We first found one of these shops on the morning we arrived and were walking from the tram stop to our apartment. They sell incredibly tasty Borek that we continued to eat for breakfast every day we were there. This is cheap, filling and very good food! They are a chain, and we ate at several different stores and they all had the same quality. HERE is a link to one so you can see what to look for.
• Baris Cafe and Fast Food – One of the best and cheapest kebabs we found outside of Istanbul is at this cafe. It’s a bit outside of the city center, but if you are in the area it’s worth stopping by! Click H E RE for a location.

Food in Antalya is not that expensive when compared to other places along the coastline such as Fethiye. You will pay a little more than somewhere like Istanbul, but still a reasonable price.

Guide to Antalya tip – get away from the main strips for cheap food. Along the walking malls keep a look out for the bread carts which sell bread for only 5TL each. They are a cheap breakfast that you can eat on the go.

Well, that’s if for my Ultimate Guide to Antalya – for now. I am constantly updating my guides, and will continue to add information on each visit to the city.

I highly recommend Antalya as a place to visit along the south coast of Turkey. It is a charming city, with plenty of history, places to see and things to do. You cannot help but fall in love with Antalya!

If you have any questions or anything to add that would be helpful for visitors, then feel free to drop it in the comments!

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Antalya

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Jess Lee has been writing about Turkey's Antalya region for over a decade. She lives in Turkey.

Antalya offers plenty of things to do for everyone. If you want to dose up on sightseeing, Aspendos and Antalya's labyrinthine central old town are among the best places to visit, while the city is perfectly placed to act as your base for day-tripping around the historic tourist attractions scattered across the nearby hills.

For many visitors, though, history doesn't even get a look-in. Antalya instead, is all about the beaches strung along the coast and taking in the Mediterranean coastline vistas on a boat tour.

Whichever type of vacation you're looking for, help plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Antalya.

See also: Where to Stay in Antalya

1. Explore Antalya's Old Town

2. head onto the mediterranean from the old harbor, 3. relax on konyaalti beach, 4. day trip to aspendos, 5. sunbathe & swim at lara beach, 6. scramble around the ruins of termessos, 7. visit the antalya museum, 8. admire the yivli minare, 9. stroll through hadrian's gate, 10. take in the views from the roman fortress, 11. white water raft in köprülü canyon national park, 12. explore the vast ancient city of perge, 13. visit olympos and the chimaera, 14. day trip to a lesser seen ancient site at phaselis, 15. visit the antalya region's karst springs, 16. delve into karain cave, where to stay in antalya for sightseeing, antalya - climate chart.

Highlights: Antalya's ancient core with heritage that ranges from Roman to Ottoman

The maze-like Kaleiçi neighborhood was made for strolling.

Perfectly restored whitewashed and red-roofed Ottoman mansions line the cobblestone streets, now home to a plethora of boutique hotels, souvenir shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Although it's more a place to simply breathe in the old-world ambience, there are also plenty of small tourist attractions for those who want to sightsee.

The main square has a fortress gate and stone-clad clock tower while the 18th-century Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque is worth a look just for its intricate interior tile work.

Along Hesapçi Sokak, you'll find the graceful Kesik Minare (truncated minaret). Destroyed by fire in the 19th century, this is all that is left of a building that started its life as a Roman temple, was converted into a Byzantine church, and finally became a mosque.

Highlights: Vistas out to the sea from the harbor cafes, and views across the lush coastline from aboard a boat

Nestled into a recess in the cliffs, Antalya's old harbor in the northwest corner of the old town is a picturesque huddle of cafés and restaurants overlooking gently bobbing yachts ready to set out on the Mediterranean.

With its peaceful pleasure-boat atmosphere now, it's difficult to imagine this place was once Antalya's major economic hub, but from the 2nd century up until the mid-20th century, this was the main port, bringing trade and prosperity to the city and surrounding region.

These days, you come here to watch the sun set over the sea while you sip a coffee, or to hop aboard one of the excursion boats for a day tour catered towards soaking up the sun, taking in the lush coastal views, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.

Highlight: Lazy beach day with a dramatic backdrop of mountains

West of Antalya's town center, Konyaalti Beach is one of Antalya's two prime sweeps of sand, with a picturesque backing of mountains rolling down to the coastline beyond.

During summer, this strip (which is more pebbly than sandy) is hugely popular with both local and foreign visitors, and lazy beach days are made simple with plenty of facilities provided.

Sun loungers with umbrellas can be rented, there are good toilet and shower facilities, and the palm tree lined promenade behind the beach is rimmed with snack shops, cafés, and restaurants for when you get peckish.

The beach is easily accessed from town, so it's a very popular beach option with visitors who've chosen to stay in the atmospheric boutique hotel accommodation in Antalya's old town district, as well as visitors at the beach hotels.

Address: Akdeniz Bulvarı

Highlight: Epic, restored Roman theater that is an easy half-day trip from the city

The main reason history buffs visit Antalya is to make the day trip to Aspendos , about 47 kilometers east.

This archaeological site is home to a Roman theater commonly thought to be the best preserved in the world and one of the top tourist attractions in Turkey .

The glory days of this dazzling, ancient town were during the 2nd and 3rd centuries, when most of the ruins that can be seen today were built.

Apart from the theater, which has been fully restored and can seat 15,000 people, much of the rest of the site still lies in ruins and is probably only interesting to the most enthusiastic sightseer.

It includes tours of the Roman ruins of Aspendos and Perge, entrance to Aspendos and the waterfalls (which are near Side), lunch, and pickup and drop-off from your Antalya hotel.

• Read More: Exploring the Ancient City of Aspendos: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Resort living, water sports, and sun-and-sand vacations still within easy reach of town

To the south of Antalya's center, Lara beach is popular for its soft white sand and good family-friendly facilities, backed by cafés and restaurants and with plenty of things to do, from jet-ski rentals to stand up paddleboards for those who want to hit the water.

Sun loungers and umbrellas can be easily rented for those who want to do nothing more strenuous than soak up the sun.

This area is where the vast amount of Antalya's beach resort hotels are located, so for visitors arriving here for a holiday that's all about the sun, sea, and sand, Lara Beach is the main attraction.

Do be aware that during the peak summer months, this beach can get crammed.

Highlight: Mountain views amid the ruins of this ancient Pisidian stronghold

Aspendos may get all the tourism fame, but Termessos , 34 kilometers northwest of Antalya, beats it hands down for atmosphere.

Neither the Greeks nor the Romans managed to tame the war-like Pisidians, who fiercely protected their independence from the mountain eyrie of Termessos.

The well-preserved remains of this ancient city lie scattered along a rugged hillside with jaw-dropping views across the surrounding countryside.

Wear sturdy shoes and take plenty of water if you want to fully explore this site.

The colonnaded street and upper agora are particularly impressive but don't miss the theater where the vistas across the peaks of the Taurus Mountains are astounding.

Highlight: One of the finest collections of Classical-era statuary and sarcophagi in Turkey

If you're at all interested in the Classical-era history of this slice of Turkey's coast, don't miss the excellent Antalya Museum .

The dazzling exhibits here showcase all the best finds from all the major excavation sites in the surrounding countryside. Even better, the collection is displayed in exemplary fashion, making the rich (and rather complicated) history of this section of the coast easy to understand.

The large archaeological section offers displays from the Bronze Age to Byzantium, though it's best known for its exhibits of fine statuary created during the Hellenistic and Roman eras of ancient cities such as Perge, Xanthos, and Patara.

Address: Konyaaltı Caddesi 88

Highlight: Prominent, preserved Seljuk-era minaret

One of Antalya's most distinctive landmarks, and among the old town quarter's many historic monuments, the Yivli Minare (fluted minaret) was built by the Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubad (1219-36).

The minaret is a typical, and extremely well-preserved, example of Seljuk architecture, with a square base surmounted by an octagonal drum bearing the fluted shaft, with its corbelled gallery around the top.

The attached 14th-century mosque is still in use today. The minaret is right beside the Kale entrance gate into the old city.

Opposite the minaret is Antalya's Ottoman-era clock tower, while nearby are some tombs dating from the 14th century.

Address: Cumhuriyet Caddesi

Highlight: Antalya old town's best-preserved Roman remnant

The most dramatic entrance into Antalya's old town district is through Hadrian's Gate (known as Uçkapılar in Turkish), which is the main gateway leading into the old town's eastern section.

Considerable stretches of the Hellenistic and Roman town walls on the eastern side of the old town area have managed to be preserved in partial form, but Hadrian's Gate is the most notable of these sections.

Erected in honor of the CE 130 visit by Emperor Hadrian himself, this grand three-arched marble gateway, flanked by imposing towers, is decorated with rich sculptural decorations.

As you walk through the arches, look up at the ceiling to view the best-preserved carvings.

Address: Atatürk Caddesi

Highlight: Prime spot for swooping vistas across the bay, backdropped by snow-capped mountains

Built in the 2nd century, this squat 14-meter-high cylindrical tower watches over Antalya's old harbor from high above on the edge of Karaalioğlu Park.

No one is quite sure what its main function was, but most agree it acted as a watchtower or lighthouse over the busy port below.

Now it's a fantastic spot to watch the sunset or get that all-important panoramic view over the old harbor area.

The park itself is prime picnicking territory and a tranquil, flower-filled spot to escape the city streets.

Do as the locals do and come here at dusk to promenade. Excellent cafés are also nearby if you need to recuperate after sightseeing.

Highlight: Rafting and hiking amid this lush, high-walled canyon

For water fans and anyone after an adrenaline rush, the Köprülü Canyon National Park, 90 kilometers northeast from Antalya, is one of the top day-trip destinations for visitors to the city.

The green-blue water of the Köprülü River snakes through dramatic and craggy high cliffs and has become one of Turkey's most popular places to visit for white water rafting.

Most people head here from Antalya for a half-day rafting tour, though if you want to explore further, the national park also has plenty of hiking opportunities and a scatter of ancient city ruins to see.

If you don't fancy heading onto the water itself, but want to enjoy the canyon's scenery, the main village here has riverside cafés with great canyon views.

Köprülü Canyon National Park is also easily accessed from Side , which is 64 kilometers southeast from the park.

Highlight: Explore the vast, rambling ruins of this once-mighty ancient Pamphylian city

Perge's vast and rubble-filled stadium, half-destroyed temples, and huge colonnaded agora are imbued with an atmosphere of past glory.

This was once the capital of ancient Pamphylia, which blossomed under first Greek and then Roman rule.

The ruins here, about 17 kilometers east of Antalya, are not as famous as others on Turkey's Mediterranean Coast and this also means they attract fewer crowds, leaving visitors able to explore the long colonnaded streets and half-collapsed temples in peace.

The Roman baths, Hellenistic Gate, and the Acropolis area with its sweeping views across the site, are all particularly interesting.

This is the easiest ancient city site to reach from Antalya for independent travelers, as Antalya's tram network now extends all the way out to Aksu, from where you can walk the last two kilometers to the site's entrance gate.

Highlights: A mountain-top eternal flame, ancient ruins, and laid-back beach life

The near-twin villages of Olympos and Çirali, about 84 kilometers southwest of Antalya, sit on a piece of lovely coastline near the overgrown ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Olympos .

As well as the ruins, the famed attraction here is the chimaera, a naturally occurring eternal flame that flickers out of the rocky cliff above.

Olympos is popular with young backpackers and has a reputation for being lively at night, while Çirali is more laid-back and all about chilling out on the beach.

Both are perfect for anyone seeking a beach holiday well away from Turkey's purposely built-up tourist resorts.

• Read More: Exploring Ancient Olympos and the Chimaera: A Visitor's Guide

Highlight: Getting off the beaten track to discover Antalya's lesser-seen ruins

The old Lycian port of Phaselis, about 60 kilometers southwest of Antalya, is where Alexander the Great set up his winter quarters in 334 BCE.

There are remains of a theater, aqueduct, temples, and colonnaded street to explore, as well as the ancient city's Hadrian's Arch gate, which was erected in CE 114.

The seaside location of the ruins is very pretty, and the small museum on-site displays excavated finds.

If you have time, a couple of kilometers before Phaselis is the Olympos Teleferik (cable car), which journeys up the side of Tahtali Mountain to the summit at 2,275 meters for panoramic vistas over the coast.

Highlight: Take a break from Antalya's rich history with a trip to the Upper Düden waterfalls

The limestone countryside around Antalya is rich in karst springs, sinkholes, and waterfalls.

The lime deposits from these springs have built up over a period of 1.5 to two million years into vast travertine terraces similar to the process that created Turkey's famed terraces at Pamukkale .

Kırkgöz and Pınarbası (just to the northwest of Antalya) have springs and sinkholes to see, but the most famous karst feature in the surrounding area are the Upper Düden waterfalls.

The cascades here, 10 kilometers north from central Antalya tumble down a narrow gorge, beside a viewing platform with a café and picnicking area. A trip here makes a nice nature break from Antalya's glut of historic attractions.

Highlight: Cool off on a hot mid-summer day with a trip deep underground

The Karain Cave, about 27 kilometers northwest of Antalya, near Dösemalti, was inhabited by prehistoric man and has yielded finds from both the Lower and Middle Paleolithic eras.

Excavated finds here include bones and teeth belonging to Neolithic man. Some of the finds are on show in the small but remarkably comprehensive museum on-site.

The wide, arching caverns here are a good opportunity for some easy caving and are very popular with local families having a break from the city.

If you can, try to come on a weekday, when they're less busy. If you have a rental car, the cave and museum combined with the karst springs a little farther north make a good day trip.

Enthusiastic cavers can explore many other caves within day-tripping distance from Antalya.

About 45 kilometers north of the city is the Kocain Cave, which lies hidden deep within the karst mountains of the region. The 600-meter-long cave was first investigated by K. Kökten, whose finds here prove that it was inhabited in prehistoric times.

At the entrance is a huge Roman cistern and also traces of a very early settlement. The cavern here is colossal and boasts some mammoth stalagmites, which have formed into weird and wacky shapes.

Bring along a torch and wear sturdy shoes if you want to explore the cave's interior, as it can get slippery underfoot.

If you're visiting Antalya for the first time, the best area to stay will depend on your sightseeing goals.

If your main focus is to soak up the city's historical ambience, base yourself in the old town area (Kaleiçi) with its tangle of cobbled streets and whitewashed Ottoman mansions.

If sun, sand, and sea are your priority, the beach resort district backing Lara Beach with its upscale all-inclusive resorts, makes the best base. From here, the old town is about 30 minutes away by car–an easy day or half-day excursion.

Luxury Hotels:

• On the beach in Lara, the Aska Lara Resort & Spa is a family-friendly five-star resort with multiple pools; an opulent spa; and an entire entertainment zone complete with a waterslide park, ziplines, and a climbing wall to keep younger travelers happy.
• The perfect place for a luxurious and easygoing family holiday, Delphin Imperial Hotel , also on the beach in Lara, offers up big modern rooms with blonde-wood accents and balconies; massive grounds with tennis courts and multiple pools, so there's always space for you to sunbathe; a gym; spa; and plenty of dining choices. For the smaller members of traveling families there are well-equipped play areas and waterslides.
• For all-inclusive living, Liberty Hotels Lara is another family-friendly beachfront choice known for its excellent restaurants, contemporary rooms, and masses of pools. Kids can buzz down the waterslides, play in the arcade and games room, or join in the kids' club activities, while adults can indulge in the spa or play some tennis on the courts.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In Antalya Old Town, right in the heart of the city, Kaucuk Hotel has plenty of boutique style, with stone-walled rooms, many boasting intricate wooden ceilings and exuding old-fashioned Ottoman style, and a palm tree speckled courtyard with a pool. Breakfast is included.
• Nearby, another Old Town gem is the welcoming Eski Masal Hotel with an included breakfast, a courtyard pool, and idiosyncratically designed rooms, each with their own unique character.

Budget Hotels:

• Also in the Old Town, the sparkling clean Hotel Frankfurt is a solid central choice just a mere eight-minute stroll from Hadrian's Gate.
• The homey and great-value Hadrian Gate Hotel is only 100 meters away from its namesake attraction. There's a pool here and an included breakfast.
• Also in the heart of the Old Town, and a five-minute walk from the beach, the top terrace of the popular Bacchus Pension presides over magnificent sea views.

The best time to visit Antalya is between spring and fall (the months of April, May, June, July, August, September, and October).

April and May are quieter months tourism-wise as beach weather has yet to kick in, but travelers here for the history prefer these months due to the milder temperatures, softer light for photography, and the incredible colorful displays of spring flowers amid the hillside ruins. Daytime temperatures average 17 to 21 degrees Celsius during this period, and you need to expect a day or two of rainy weather. April usually brings an average of eight rainy days.

Temperatures begin shooting up in June and don't relent until mid-October. During peak season (July and August), when both international and local tourists arrive in droves to hit the Antalya region's beaches, temperatures range between 21 and 34 degrees and average out at 29 degrees, with the long summer days bringing reliable sunshine, blue skies, and humidity.

Once the school vacation period finishes at the start of September, the beaches and major sights get less crowded but the good weather continues. It's only in October that you need to pack a warmer layer for after dark and plan for some rainy weather again.

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In the Region: Antalya is a great base from which to hit the road and explore the coastline. To the south, within day-tripping distance, is Side with its bundle of Roman ruins and beaches. To the north, head to the pretty village of Kas , surrounded by beautiful Mediterranean coastline.

More Cities: Antalya is one of Turkey's biggest cities. For more city life, Istanbul is Turkey's buzziest and most cosmopolitan, while Konya is home to plenty of historic buildings as in the home of the Whirling Dervishes.

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Home > 15 Unmissable Antalya Attractions: Things To Do In Antalya

15 Unmissable Antalya Attractions: Things To Do In Antalya

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Nestled on the stunning Turquoise Coast of Turkey, the province of Antalya is a true gem waiting to be explored. Turkey, as a country, is massive, and within its vast expanse, you’ll find countless natural wonders that never fail to amaze. However, when you venture to the Antalya region, known as the Turkish Riviera, you’ll discover a coastal paradise that truly stands out.

My guide shows you just what to see and do in Antalya.

Antalya isn’t just any coastal city; it’s a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and beachfront bliss. With a longer summer season than some of its neighbors, like the Dalaman region , Antalya lures millions of visitors annually, drawn by its pristine beaches that are wonders in their own right. But if you’re eager to witness Mother Nature’s finest work, there’s a wealth of treasures to explore.

From ancient ruins and archaeological sites dating back to the Byzantine and Roman periods to the mesmerizing rock formations along its coast, Antalya is a perfect place for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and beach lovers alike. Discover top tourist attractions like the ancient town of Phaselis, the historic center of Antalya Old Town, and the Roman ruins of Perge.

So, if you’re craving a destination where history meets coastal beauty, Antalya on the Turquoise Coast awaits your exploration.

By categorizing these attractions, you can better plan your visit to Antalya based on your interests, whether you’re drawn to natural beauty, historical sites, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly activities.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Natural Antalya Attractions

So, what natural wonders are there to see in Antalya? What to do in Antalya beyond the urban attractions and busy beaches ?

Here are some of the best places to visit near Antalya for nature lovers to put on your Antalya itinerary.

1. Stroll Among The Many Waterfalls

There are many beautiful waterfalls in and around Antalya, many of which are open to visitors all year long. If you only have two days in Antalya , or perhaps just one day in Antalya, seeing an Antalya waterfall or two should be a priority.

Kursunlu Waterfall

Kursunlu Waterfall is an excellent spot for bird lovers, as there are over 100 different species that call this area home. It’s almost like a tropical getaway!

Manavgat Waterfall

Manavgat Waterfall is another excellent place in Antalya, which is widely known to be one of the best in the region and is located around 3km out of central Antalya. At 3 meters high, the waterfall is a pretty powerful one, and the spray is very cool on a hot day! You can enjoy a picnic area, and there are restaurants around the waterfall, including a fantastic seafood restaurant.

Duden Waterfalls

One of the most famous waterfalls in Antalya is Duden Waterfalls. Located just 15 minutes from Antalya Airport, you’ll find two attractive options to check out. The Upper Duden Waterfall and Lower Duden Waterfall are both open to visitors.

Upper Duden has a sheltered pool where you can swim and cool down under the shade of the trees, but Lower Duden is probably the most stunning in terms of raw power. The waterfall cascades down the 50-meter-high cliffs into the sea below, and you can hear the roaring as it does so. It’s genuinely one of the most remarkable things to see in Antalya.

2. Köprülü Canyon National Park

Köprülü Canyon is a canyon and a national park in the Province of Antalya. It’s one of the top Antalya sightseeing places, especially among outdoorsy visitors and lovers of stunning natural scenery.

This vast national park is located in Manavgat, a short distance from central Antalya. To get from Antalya to the park, you’ll drive through the mountain passes, a road  packed with jaw-dropping scenery. The canyon is enormous, around 14km long, and runs along the Koprucay River.

Within the canyon, you’ll find all manner of flora and fauna, wildlife, shady spots, and simply beautiful spots that you’ll definitely want to capture on camera. This area is also known to be a special spot for trees, with giant oak trees, red pine, cedar fir, and black pine. You’ll also find a beautiful cypress forest here.

Suppose you want to enjoy something a little wild and energetic. In that case, you can try white-water rafting within the canyon or wander around the many archaeological sites , including Roman bridges from back in the day. You can camp here, hike, and enjoy the chilled-out vibe.

3. Altinbesik Cave National Park

Altinbesik Cave National Park is home to the 3rd largest underground water cave in the world. However, it’s known for far more than that. You’ll find countless indigenous trees, flora and fauna, and plenty of wildlife, including wild goats, foxes, wolves, and wild boars.

The cave itself is the highlight, and when you enter, the first 200 meters are permanently submerged underwater. From there, you head down to a steep section which is arguably the most beautiful part, covered in white travertine.

The top section is always dry, but the rest is often wet, and you’ll find large ponds dotted around. As a result of the water, the cave is humid and never really dips below 16 C.

The park is located in a small village called Urunlu Village, which is downright beautiful in its own right. You’ll find many trips that head to the caves , but you can drive from the Antalya city center, which will take you around 2.5 hours.

4. Dim Cave

While reading this guide on what to do in Antalya, Türkiye, you may be shocked to know we’ve added another cave.

Yes, another cave!

This one is located in Alanya, one of the beach resorts in the Antalya province, just under 2 hours from Antalya city center.

Dim Cave comprises limestone, and you’ll see erosion that has taken place over centuries, creating a fantastic shape and character. The complex has two caves, estimated to be over a million years old! You can walk through the caves, and they’re very well-lit. You’ll also be able to visit the small underground lake.

Remember to take a jacket or cardigan with you when you visit the caves, even if it’s the warmest month of the year – it is much cooler underground. The only downside is that the caves have many steps that lead down to them and within them, which could cause a problem for anyone with mobility issues.

5. Chimaera Tourist Attractions

Around 1.5 hours away from Antalya city center, you’ll find Cirali. Not only is there a stunning beach here, but you can also visit a phenomenon that will have you shivering for all the right reasons!

Grab some comfortable walking shoes and head up the mountain to Cimaera, a spot where fire constantly jumps out from between the breaks in the rocks. The story is that Chimaera, a mythological Greek monster made up of a goat, lion, and snake hybrid, was fought and conquered here by Bellerophon, a hero of the time.

Of course, the legend is that the fire jumping up from the rocks is due to the monster’s lasting presence, but it’s actually because of methane trapped between the rocks!

On the way, you’ll also be able to visit a temple that is dedicated to the God of Fire from Greek mythology.

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Historical and archaeological sites in antalya, 6. aspendos ancient theater.

Prepare to be transported back in time as you step into the remarkable Aspendos Ancient Theater, a marvel of Roman engineering and architecture. With seating for up to 15,000 spectators, this is one of the best-preserved theaters and is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, making it an ideal spot for cultural performances.

History enthusiasts and theater buffs will find this a must-visit site. Located approximately 45 kilometers east of Antalya, you can easily reach Aspendos by car or on guided tours.

7. Perge Ancient City

History enthusiasts and archaeology buffs will delight in exploring the ruins of Perge, an ancient Roman city located just 18 kilometers east of Antalya.

Highlights include a well-preserved stadium, an impressive agora (marketplace), and Roman baths. Perge offers a captivating glimpse into the past and is suitable for those interested in ancient civilizations and architecture.

8. Hadrian’s Gate

Step through time at Hadrian’s Gate, an iconic Roman triumphal arch built in the 2nd century AD to honor Roman Emperor Hadrian. It’s a must-see landmark for history aficionados and casual tourists alike.

Located at the entrance to Antalya’s Old Town, Hadrian’s Gate is easily accessible and suitable for all types of travelers.

9. Phaselis Ancient City

History buffs and adventure seekers alike will be captivated by the ruins of Phaselis, an ancient Lycian city. Explore the best preserved harbors, Roman baths, and an amphitheater with a stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

It’s accessible by car or guided tours and offers a mix of history and natural beauty.

Outdoor Adventures And Nature Parks In Antalya

We’ve already highlighted a few attractions that also fit into this category:

• Köprülü Canyon
• Altinbesik Cave National Park
• Chimaera 

In addition, add these stops to your outdoor adventure trek in Antalya:

10. Termessos National Park At The Taurus Mountains

If you’re a fan of soaring mountains and the fantastic scenery that accompanies them, you have to head to Termessos National Park. Located around 34 kilometers northwest of Antalya, this park is right at the bottom of the imposing Taurus Mountains.

Gulluk Mountain is undoubtedly one of the highlights, along with Mecene Gorge. Check out the fragrant trees, beautiful flowers, and rocks that seem to have characters all of their own. This is also a spot for endangered wildlife, including roe deer, wild mountain goats, and the great black eagle.

The park is also located very close to Termessos Ancient City, and you can spot the ruins from the site itself. If you love walking in nature, this is easily one of the best places to visit in Antalya for you, and there is also a huge ancient amphitheater, dating back to Roman times, that you must check out.

Because it offers fascinating history and spectacular landscapes, this is easily one of the top Antalya Turkey tourist attractions you should visit .

11. Kekova Island

Embark on a boat trip to Kekova Island to witness the mesmerizing submerged ruins of ancient Simena. This adventure is perfect for those who appreciate history and scenic beauty. You can also swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

To get there, join a boat tour departing from nearby towns like Demre or Kas , making it accessible for travelers of all types.

12. Olympus And Cirali Beaches

For a tranquil beach escape, head to Olympos and Cirali, nestled along the Mediterranean coast. These serene beaches are perfect for couples and nature lovers seeking relaxation amidst lush greenery. Keep an eye out for the Chimaera phenomenon, where natural flames flicker from the rocks.

You can reach Olympos and Cirali by car or via guided tours departing from Antalya.

Cultural And Heritage Attractions In Antalya

• Aspendos Ancient Theater
• Hadrian’s Gate

In addition, add this cultural stop in Antalya:

13. Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi)

Lose yourself in the winding streets and alleys of Antalya’s Old Town, also known as Kaleiçi. This charming historic district boasts well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings, boutique hotels, and quaint cafes.

Stroll along the ancient city walls, visit the historic clock tower, and explore the picturesque marina. It’s a perfect destination for solo travelers , couples, and families seeking a leisurely walk through history.

Accessible on foot from central Antalya or via public transportation.

Family-Friendly And Leisure Activities In Antalya

• Olympos and Cirali Beaches

In addition, add this family-friendly stop in Antalya:

14. Antalya Aquarium

Dive into the mesmerizing world of marine life at the Antalya Aquarium, a family-friendly attraction with a range of interactive exhibits. Ideal for kids and families, this aquarium showcases diverse aquatic species, including sharks and colorful coral reefs. Situated near Konyaaltı Beach, it’s easily reachable by public transport or a short drive.

Festivals & Events In Antalya

15. kick back and get to know turkish culture better with one of these many festivals. , international antalya film festival.

This film festival showcases a wide range of international and Turkish films. It attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world.

Antalya International Piano Festival

Music lovers can enjoy classical piano performances by renowned musicians during this annual festival, which takes place in various venues across Antalya.

Antalya International Jazz Festival

Jazz enthusiasts can groove to the rhythm of jazz music performed by both local and international artists. The festival offers a diverse lineup of jazz styles.

Antalya Festival

Celebrated during the summer months, this festival features a variety of cultural events, including music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions. It’s a vibrant celebration of the city’s culture.

Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival

Held at the ancient Aspendos Theater, this festival presents spectacular opera and ballet performances against the backdrop of a historic Roman theater.

Antalya Sand Sculpture Festival

Talented artists from around the world create intricate sand sculptures on Lara Beach. This unique festival allows visitors to admire impressive sand artistry.

Antalya Carnival

A lively and colorful event, the Antalya Carnival includes parades, costumes, music, and dancing. It’s a festive occasion that brings the community together.

Antalya International Folk Music and Dance Festival

Folk groups from various countries come to Antalya to share their traditional music and dance performances, offering a glimpse into diverse global cultures.

Antalya Piano Festival

This festival features piano recitals and performances by both local and international pianists. It’s a treat for classical music enthusiasts

Antalya Orchid Exhibition

Orchid lovers can admire a stunning display of these beautiful flowers at the annual Orchid Exhibition, where rare and exotic orchid varieties are showcased.

Best Time To Visit The Top Attractions In Antalya

So, when is the best time to visit Antalya?

Well, many people don’t realize that Antalya is a year-round destination. Sure, you’re not going to be swimming on the Antalya coast in January, but the winters here are very mild compared to the rest of Europe and also compared to much of the country.

That means you can have delightful days during the winter , allowing you to walk around in a t-shirt and cardigan or light jacket and enjoy what the greater Antalya region has to offer. Some of the best things to do in Antalya Türkiye are available throughout winter , too.

From June to September, all Antalya attractions are bustling . This is the peak summer season, and you can expect crowds in abundance. While you can certainly head out to see some of the natural places to visit in Antalya, including a famous Antalya waterfall or two, during this time, there is a downside, too. Actually, there are two – firstly, crowds.

People will be jostling for space, which doesn’t make for the most relaxing day—secondly, the weather . Antalya during the summer can easily hit 40 degrees C, and you’re very unlikely to see rain.

Many of the natural gems have some amount of natural shade, but not all of them, which means you will be exposed to the sun for most of the day when exploring these Antalya tourist attractions .

For that reason, the shoulder seasons of April to June and late September to mid-November are ideal for exploring the numerous natural activities in Antalya. If you’re planning a holiday in Antalya , Turkey, these are the months we recommend visiting.

Between mid-November and the end of March, the availability of hotels in the Antalya city center and along the coast does drop a little. However, there is plenty to choose from, including Lara Beach’s seriously upmarket 5-star options. Many of the Antalya Old Town hotels and beachside restaurants will still be open at that time. Winter is also a great time to visit if you prefer a more authentic vibe.

When visiting during these times, you’ll be able to explore with a greater degree of comfort in terms of space and weather . However, it all comes down to your general availability and preferences – we’re all different!

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How To Get Around Antalya

Distances between the best places to visit in Antalya can be large, but the good news is that getting around isn’t difficult.

The main natural attractions can all be reached on an Antalya excursion from the main resorts in and around the city, which are usually exceptionally well-priced. You typically get your lunch within your tour price, admission to the attraction, and return transport.

If you prefer to do things independently, you can hire a car and drive to different attractions very quickly. Overall, the roads in Türkiye are very high quality, but if you are going somewhere a little off the beaten track, i.e., an Antalya waterfall or a cave, you may find that the final section of your drive is full of twists and turns. Take your time and drive slowly.

The other option is public transport, which often means catching a dolmus (a small minibus). These can become quite crowded, especially during the summer, and tend to go “around the houses,” as locals use them to get to and from towns and villages. However, by doing that, you’ll see beautiful scenery and get an authentic experience.

Final Thoughts On Antalya, Turkey

The entire Antalya Province is packed with beautiful natural areas to check out, and during one visit, you’ll never make it around them. There are plenty of things to do surrounding Antalya.

Distances around the Province are relatively large, but by knowing the best places to visit in Antalya for nature, you can direct your time and attention towards the area that will open your eyes to the beauty and wonder of Antalya in Türkiye.

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Antalya, Turkey Guide

Last Updated on January 28, 2024

Antalya is the most popular destination along the Turkish Mediterranean Coast . It is a sprawling modern city with a small, charming historic center that tells of its past as an ancient Greco Roman city. It has a good archeology museum, many malls, and family-friendly activities, and it is a great base to explore the Mediterranean region since it has the Turquoise Coast's busiest airport.

Antalya is a popular tourist destination for locals and tourists alike, synonymous with beaches and rich history. Visitors have many choices when planning a vacation here. It is full of the region's living history, with some sites located inside the city center of Antalya and others in the nearby beach towns of the region.

Konyaaltı, Lara, & Mermerli Plajı

Konyaaltı Plajı has a swath of rough sand and pebbles running west for several kilometers. The sand is somewhat softer along Lara Plajı (Lara Beach) to the east. There's also the private beach of Mermerli Plajı , both excellent places to enjoy the Turkish Riviera.

Kaleiçi, Roman Harbor, & Hadrian's Gate

The historic center of Antalya, called Kaleiçi  (Old Antalya), surrounds the Roman Harbor. There are many entrances to Kaleici, but the most stunning is walking under the three large arches of Hadrian's Gate , which was built for the Roman Emperor Hadrian for his visit in 130 AD. Many of the buildings here date from Ottoman and Roman times. Wander down more of the narrow streets to discover hotels, restaurants, and other historical sights.

Standing atop the cliff of the old town, you get panoramic views of Antalya Marina ( Kaleiçi Yat Limanı ) and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy a stroll in the cobbled streets of the old city before enjoying the delicious local cuisine or exploring the stunning beaches nearby.

Antalya Aquarium & Archeology Museum

Antalya Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is near other amusement parks and the Antalya Archeology Museum . There are abundant options for shopping, whether you have a preference for a traditional bazaar , one of Antalya's many modern shopping malls, or shops selling souvenirs and traditional handicrafts that line the cobblestone streets inside Kaleiçi .

Hosting a large percentage of domestic and international tourists, Antalya has many accommodation options, ranging from five-star hotels to budget hostels.

Many visitors opt for boutique hotels within Kaleiçi or nearby Turkey's Mediterranean coast. There are many all-inclusive hotels that offer easy access to the sea. Budget-conscious travelers may opt for a pension , but if you are looking for an upscale stay, there are also many luxury accommodations .

By far, our favorite place to stay is the Tuvana Hotel , an Ottoman-style inn with carefully decorated interiors, a swimming pool, three restaurants, and a gorgeous inner courtyard.

What to See & Do in Antalya

Transportation

Antalya is the transport hub of the region, served by a big, modern airport 10 km (6 miles) east of the city center and a bus terminal ( otogar ) 4 km (2.5 miles) north. The city is near Turkey's most popular beach towns and historical sites and has a well-developed network of roads and highways that connect it to other parts of Turkey and other smaller towns along the Mediterranean coast.

There are several options for accessing the airport. There are also many options for getting around the city and touring some of the nearby sites, such as renting a car , taking a tour bus, or using the local dolmus (shared minibus) service. If you want the cheapest option, it's best to take public transportation.

If you are wondering how to get around in the city center, you have several options to choose from. Antalya has many ways of getting around the center as well as Antalya province. Public transportation methods such as buses , dolmushes , and trams are ready to serve your day-to-day trips. If you are looking for a more private experience, there are many private transportation companies, guided tours with vehicles, rent-a-car offices , and taxis to opt from. Check out our main Antalya transportation page here for detailed information.

Distances & Travel Times

Bodrum : 422.4 km (262.47 mi), 5.30 hours.

Çeşme : 537.5 km (333 mi), 6.30 hours.

Fethiye : 200 km (125 mi), 3 hours.

Marmaris : 318.4 km (197 mi), 5 hours.

Antalya is the tourism hub of Turkey, so it is no wonder there are so many five-star restaurants offering the best meals all around the world.

While in Antalya, we recommend enjoying the best Mediterranean cuisine. Read our recommendations for the best cafes , ice cream , and restaurants . For a taste of local flavor, try our recommendations on the best places to try kofte, piyaz , and more.

If you prefer to try your hand at cooking, check out our handy shopping list and enjoy our simple and delicious recipe for baba ganoush .

Top Experiences

Antalya is a prime holiday destination, offering everything one might expect from a vacation. There are beaches, nightlife, natural wonders, water sports, five-star restaurants, and exceptional cafes. 

Go for a Swim

Antalya is known for its pristine private and public beaches nestled around the seashore. While in Antalya, go for a swim on one of the beaches. We recommend going outside the city lines for a more calming experience.

Try Water Sports

Those who prefer an active lifestyle can always go for water sports in Antalya. There is rafting , diving, sailing, and a lot more to experience. Also, many five-star hotels will include these water sports in their programs, and the professionals will guide you through every second.

Sail in the Old Marina

Sailing along the shore in Antalya Marina ( Kaleiçi Yat Limanı) is one activity that has formed the foundation of Antalya's tourism industry for years. The programs provide music, food, and tours of natural caves around the shore. It also gives you a different perspective on the city.

Take a Walk

Antalya is also a very walkable city with many pedestrian roads, hiking routes, and natural wonders to stroll through. Try going for a walk in the famous Atatürk Park , Manavgat Şelalesi , or near the wonderful hiking routes of Olimpos and Çıralı for a more serene experience. Don't forget to go to Konyaaltı and Beach Park for a nice stroll along the seashore in the evening. 

Enjoy Nightlife

Antalya, in the summer, is known for its lively nightlife. Turkish people know how to have fun; the weather is hot, and the clubs are open throughout the night. It is a popular option for anyone who wants to get to know the locals better.

Tours & Excursions

Antalya is also a good base for day trips to explore the surrounding region. The city is located centrally in the resource-rich Mediterranean region, which has been the birthplace of many civilizations throughout human history. As a result, there are numerous sites with archeological significance nearby that you can choose to explore. Since Antalya is one of the major hubs served by international flights, it's often the best option to fly here first before exploring other parts of south west Turkey.

Perge was an ancient Lycian settlement that was also used by the Greeks and Romans in the region. Today, just outside of the city, sits the ancient ruins of Perge . Here, you can see the ancient Agora, stadium, gates, and other remains of the settlement. A bit further out of the city limits, Aspendos features a well-preserved Roman theater.

Side is an ancient port town founded in the 7th century BCE. It has a sparkling beach alongside large marble columns, as well as a large theater and a museum. Today, near the popular resort destination Manavgat , Side is one of the prime destinations to visit near Antalya and well worth at least a half-day trip.

Olimpos & Çıralı

To the west, the ancient cities of the Lycian Empire, Olimpos & Çıralı are quiet towns set between the mountains and sea, where you'll also find eternal flames burning since antiquity. It is a well-known gateway, comparatively near the city center. It is famed for its traditional lodging options, ranging from camping to tree houses, as well as its well-preserved authentic appearance, offering a serene holiday away from the busy city life.

Phaselis, Selge, Termessos & Sagalassos

  Phaselis has smaller ruins set in a fragrant, green park. There are many other sites, such as Selge ,  Termessos ( map ), and the ancient city of Sagalassos , which feature ruins further into the mountains behind Antalya. They are best paired with Roman road hiking trails.

Köprülü Canyon National Park & Adrasan

Köprülü Kanyon National Park and Adrasan are the natural havens of Antalya, offering a deeper dive into the nature of the region. Those who are into adventure would enjoy river rafting in Köprülü Kanyon National Park or a boat tour to Suluada Beach via Adrasan .

When to go to Antalya

Antalya enjoys a Mediterranean climate and has hot and sunny weather throughout the spring, summer, and fall. This means the city is lively, and you can even swim for almost seven months of the year.

However, the temperature is mildly cold in the winter, and the tourism sector takes a break to prepare for the upcoming high season. During the winter season, despite having relatively mild winters, some resorts will not be running as in other seasons. So, you can visit Antalya throughout the year except for the winter period of three months: December , January , and February . For the best experience, aim for the summer period starting in late March and lasting until late November.

Visit Antalya

Antalya invites you to explore its fascinating blend of history and modernity. Wander through the charming streets of Kaleiçi or soak up the sun on Konyaaltı and Lara beaches. Whether you’re diving into the Antalya Aquarium or savoring local cuisine, this coastal gem promises an unforgettable experience.

—by Tom Brosnahan , updated by Kimberly Price & Can Turan

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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 .

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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

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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?

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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

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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.

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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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• Things to Do Guide
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Daily Boat Trips

• Duden Waterfalls
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• The Land of Legends Theme Park
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• Antalya Full-Day Boat Tour
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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.

Main Attractions & Day Tours

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.

Mount Tahtali Sea to Sky Cable Car (Olympos Teleferik, Tickets)

Hike the lycian way: trekking in antalya (best trails, advice), antalya archaeological museum (what to see tickets advice), koprulu canyon (white water rafting, trekking, 2024 best tours), olympos ancient city: a journey through time in antalya, sapadere canyon in alanya: activities, access, tips, the ancient city of termessos, antalya (what to expect), top-rated tourist attractions, tours, & excursions in antalya, things to do in antalya (main attractions + guru advice guide), places to see in antalya (main sights + insider advice guide), destinations & holiday resorts on the antalya region, top holiday destinations & resorts in antalya (insider advice guide), alanya antalya (holidays, top things to do & see + advice), antalya city: holidays, top things to do & see + advice, lara beach antalya: holidays, top things to do see + advice, kemer antalya: holidays, top things to do & see + advice, belek antalya (holidays, top things to do & see + advice), side antalya: holidays, top things to do & see + advice, charming places & beautiful corners in and around antalya, incredible countryside views, beautiful bays, fantastic beaches, valleys, antalya jeep safari (what to expect best tours advice), the sunken city of kekova: best daily tours & boat trips advice, chimaera (yanartas) in cirali (what to expect video tour), alanya archaeological museum: a journey into antiquity, daily boat trips in antalya province: 2024 best boat tours advice, top 16 best beaches in antalya with 2024 local expert help, ancient city of aspendos & the roman theater (tips & tickets), duden waterfalls, antalya (what to expect visiting tips), ancient city of side, amphitheater, temple of apollo & athena, the best day trips from antalya, top 24 best things to do in antalya + local help advice.

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Plastic surgery in antalya, turkey: best aesthetic clinics, doctors, top best clinics & surgeons for botox in antalya turkey, top best clinics & doctors for dermal fillers in antalya, turkey, rhinoplasty in antalya, turkey: best clinics & doctors in 2024, cost, top best dental clinics in antalya turkey for dental implants, latest posts, why is antalya the perfect destination for your next gulet adventure, best day trips from antalya to pamukkale + expert advice, best day trips from antalya to cappadocia + expert advice, family-friendly alanya catamaran cruise: best boat tours advice, alanya pirate boat trip with lunch and drinks: best tours advice, daily boat trips from side, manavgat: best boat tours, iantalya.com.

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How to Spend Four Splendid Days in Antalya, Turkey

Antalya is one of the Crown Jewels of the Mediterranean Sea and the perfect place to live the slow life. One of my favorite destinations in Turkey and a place I am dying to go back to.

Shimmering waters greet you with stunning hills in the backdrop. The old town is steeped in history and is exceptionally charming. Antalya’s surrounding areas are filled with ancient Roman ruins that rival anywhere outside Italy itself, fantastic beaches, and water sports galore. As if this place didn’t have enough going for it, the cuisine is unbeatable.

Many expats have chosen to make this city their home and after being here it is no surprise why. Antalya is an ideal place to stay busy with activities or do absolutely nothing at all. Over the two weeks I did a whole lot of both and enjoyed immensely. The whole energy of the city is simply laid back and upbeat and what makes this place what it is is the people. From smiling shopkeepers, helpful strangers, incredible chefs and musicians and new drinking buddies, Antalyans sure know how to make a visitor feel welcome and the legendary Turkish hospitality is on full display. 

In my opinion four days is a great amount of time to spend exploring Antalya and the surrounding areas. If you want to spend even more time here I would say definitely go for it but for sure not less! 

Day 1: The Town

Are you up bright and early because you are excited as all hell to explore? Well, you should be, because the first thing that you need to do is start with a traditional Turkish breakfast to fuel up for the day.

Because these breakfasts? They’re incredible.

Turkish breakfasts might be the tastiest breakfasts you can have. If you have taken my suggestion on accommodation below, feel free to have all your breakfasts there as the food is amazing, but if not then I have a great alternative at Sirali Kebap. With a spread so large it is likely to fall off of the table, you might have a hard time eating throughout the day. Did I mention it has a stunning view of the Mediterranean to boot? 

After you are thoroughly stuffed, head down and explore the old town and there is no better place to than start at Hadrian’s gate. A three arched feat of engineering was built almost 2000 years ago and is still as beautiful as the day it was erected. 

Mosey down the cobblestone streets and take it all in. Not only are there tons of cute little souvenir stores, cafes, and shops, but also beautiful pieces of history. Some of the highlights include the Kesik Minare, the lone structure standing from a 2nd century building that flip flopped between a between a church and mosque over history depending on the occupying force at an given time, the Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque, which is beautifully minimal and an oasis of peace from the bustling streets surrounding it, as well as the marina which has fabulous views of not just the ocean but the surrounding hills that provide a stunning backdrop to the picture. 

For lunch stop at one of my favorites, Ayar Meyhanesi, an unpretentious seafood place with relaxed vibes and great grub. Let’s be honest, being a seaside paradise, you are going to be eating a lot of seafood, and out here that is simply a treat. The octopus and shrimp are the stars here. Get the platter to enjoy everything that the ocean has to offer.

When you have finished your meal, grab a bus or Uber and head to the other side of town to ride the cable car. I am a firm believer that the best way to see a city is to find the highest point that you can and look down on it from above. I feel like it just puts everything into perspective and gives you a greater sense of the city, and there is nowhere that is better suited for that purpose than the Tunektepe Teleferik or Antalya Cable Car. Going up a mountain just on the outskirts of town and with unbelievable views of the town and sea below. At the top there is a cafe where you can watch the setting sun before you go back down. 

After coming back to the old town stop and get some food and wine at No.14 Kaleici. The mezze are superb and the live music keeps the vibe going till 1. 

Day 2- Olympos

The town is fantastic and there is always something to do, but you came to the beach to go to the beach, so let’s get going! Although there is Lara beach in town, the best stretches of shore are out of the city.

My recommendation for a day out for fun in the sun is going to the sleepy town of Olympos. Now I admit, it doesn’t have the powdery white sand of the Maldives or Bahamas, but the vibe is just right and there is so much to see and do in the area I have decided to classify it as a must visit. The backdrop and deep blue waters aren’t too shabby either. You could even spend a few days there in one of their iconic treehouses like I did, and have the absolute best time. 

This place is about 80 KM out of the city so you are going to want to get an early start, so have a quick breakfast at your hotel and hit the road. The easiest and most hassle free way to get there is by private taxi. You can get your hotel to make the reservation for you and they will ensure you get the best price. You can also rent a car if you have an international license and want to take on the gorgeous seaside drive on your own. Besides being more comfortable, these options will allow you to come back at your own time as well instead of being dependent on the timing of public transportation.

 If you would like to take public transportation, go to the bus station and look for buses going in the direction of Kumluca-Fethiye and get off at the Olympos stop. If in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask someone as people are extremely eager to help. The buses leave quite frequently, and they take about two hours to arrive, but the journey is part of the adventure! Looking at the cliffs, sparkling water and clear blue skies will entrance you and you might even reach before you are ready! 

When you get to Olympos, there is a small entrance fee that you will have to pay to enter this ancient city. The place is much more untouched compared to other beaches in the area and that is part of its charm. No chain hotels or restaurants here, just mom and pop guesthouses and mid-sized bars and restaurants. The reason for the lack of development is that this is a protected area due to the endangered sea turtles that lay their eggs in the pebbles from May to October. The government tries to track where they are and surround the areas with wire, but they sometimes miss things so make sure to watch your step. 

Take a short dip and then head in to have lunch and map out the rest of your day. My favorite restaurant is the Dione Restaurant Beach Bar. While the most meals in Turkey I have had have been excellent, I have usually been disappointed by the hummus which seems to be on most menus but has nothing on its eastern neighbors. Nevertheless, this was the best I had in Turkey. The staff are also fantastic and is located right on the beach, so you don’t have to go far.

After lunch the world is your oyster. I would say that usually the ruins of the old town are a must see but as we will be seeing a myriad of ancient ruins tomorrow, you can decide if that is something that you need to see. 

The other item that is on the top of almost everybody’s Olympos list is to see the undying fires of Chimera. Again, you can decide if you want to go see it but I will say that it is not for everyone.

First of all, it is about an hour and half walk uphill from the beach and the same time back and it is not easy at all. When you reach the top, you will see several somewhat small flames that are burning on the face of a rock. The flames never go out due to a natural gas leak.

While it is a super cool natural phenomenon, it is not very visually exciting and will take a minimum of three-and-a-half hours of your day to visit. Since you only have one day here, unless you are looking for a trek I would advise you to give it a miss. 

There are tons of activities that can be organized by the local guest houses that are tons of fun. I went on a boat tour with some friends and had a blast visiting different coves, snorkeling, and engaging in general merriment. This is definitely a great option for you.

If that doesn’t appeal to you there is so much more to do. You can also find kayaking, scuba, yoga, rock climbing, paragliding, bungee jumping, and many more things I’m sure I’m forgetting.

Or, just sit on the beach, look out at the ocean, grab a book and do absolutely nothing, you do you, no judgments here! If you cannot find anything to do until you go back in the evening, or get bored, I hate to say it, but you might be the problem. 

When your activities are finished, get your tired and tanned butt off the beach and with the sun setting have an early dinner before you get back. Walk over to Kadir’s Tree House, probably one of the most innovative hotels/hostels I have ever seen. Even though you won’t have time to stay in one of these amazing treehouses you can eat in one. There are two bars and two restaurants on the premises. The food is pretty good but not incredible nonetheless the atmosphere is outstanding, and the beer is cold. You will find it extremely hard to pry yourself away to get back to Antalya, but you need to because tomorrow is another full day!

Day 3 – Hierapolis Ruins/ Pamukkale

Today is going to be a long day but so, so worth it. We are going to visit one of the best-preserved Greek ruins in the world and a place in Pamukkale that looks almost out of this world.

One of the most popular tours to take from Antalya itself, you can find tours either in tour offices in town, or through online platforms such as Get Your Guide. If you go with the tours advertised on the street, you will be able to score a much better rate but it’s very hit or miss as some of the more unscrupulous companies will promise you anything to get your business. The online tour providers cost more but you can read reviews and pick the experience that best suits you. It really just depends on what your priorities are. 

The Get Your Guide tour we did was fantastic, with amazing guides, a smooth ride and sumptuous lunch.

They do drop you at a couple overpriced souvenir shops during the ride but that is par for the course when it comes to group tours worldwide and there wasn’t any added pressure to buy. If you are more of a DIY traveler like I usually am, you can self-drive. I didn’t do that here, as with the car rental, entrance fees, and gas you will end up spending even more money, plus the whole day trip takes around 10- 12 hours and that is a lot of driving for one day on top of walking around the sites. I undoubtedly enjoyed the naps in the bus on the way back instead of fighting back my eyelids.

It is about a three-hour car ride to get to Pamukkale which is the first stop of the day. If Instagram or Tiktok recommends you any travel videos at all, you will almost certainly have seen these dreamlike pools. Not just famous in the modern day but even in the ancient world as it is said that even Cleopatra herself came to take a dip in these cooling pools and test their mineral healing properties. Very cool to see and swim in but the time I was there was near the end of peak season, so the crowds were still somewhat overwhelming, but still worthy of being a bucket list item.

Next, you will go over just nearby, to the ancient city of Hierapolis. When I say that I was amazed at the scale of the city, that is no exaggeration. Obviously it’s a sliver of a shadow of its former magnificent self, but the ruins are intact enough that you can still see, feel and be able to picture how life used to be here.

I’m usually not a tour guide person but I was glad to be with a group here as there was so much interesting information, I would have missed out on just wandering around by myself. The main road and massive theater were by far the highlights for me. 

Take a nap on your way back and get ready for dinner. Seraser was probably the best food I had during the whole trip, everything was amazing, but the beef was the star. The carpaccio is melt-in-your-mouth delicious and the wellington would make even Gordan Ramsey say something nice. 

Tomorrow is a relaxing day so feel free to enjoy yourself tonight. I personally love Holly Stone for drinks and live music, but if you are into more house music then Up Shot bar is the place to be.

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Day 4 – Relaxation

Last night was fun and you might need a bigger than normal breakfast at the Pablito Bistro. The spread is bigger than you can probably eat but give it your best shot! After that head over to a traditional Hammam spa to get in a nice steam and sweat out the rest of the wine and Raki. Most people just think of Istanbul when they think of Turkish spas, but Antalya has some hidden gems.

 If you are looking for a more private and luxurious experience, then I loved going to Sefa Hamam Spa. The massage and spa therapists are world class and I left refreshed and smoother than a wet hard-boiled egg. The rooms are works of art in and of themselves and are the ideal backdrop for the treatments.

It seems like most of the massage therapists here are male, so if that is not something that you are comfortable with feel free to look elsewhere, as there are many fantastic venues around. If you are looking for a more public, cheaper, or culturally immersive experience, the Demirhan Bath has exactly what you are looking for. A place that feels stuck in time with a much more local vibe, rub shoulders with everyday Antalyans and get clean.

After that head to my favorite beach that is not actually a beach to get some lunch and much needed vitamin D.

Mermerli Beach is a private beach located right in the heart of the old town. It is a private beach, but the entrance is pretty affordable. It is less of a beach and more of a pebbled natural jetty. It is attached to the restaurant up top that you have to go through, and they provide everyone with a chair and umbrella.

Not only is it a perfect place to dive straight into the water without getting sandy, you can also order food and drinks that will be brought directly to your table; what other beach does that?

Swim and then eat, then sunbathe, or sunbathe swim and eat, do whatever feels right in the moment. I probably have never been as relaxed and pampered on any beach as this one.

When you are sufficiently roasted and stuffed, head on over to the Antalya Archaeology Museum, one of the largest in Turkey. With 13 exhibition halls chock full of beautiful and fascinating artifacts, you could spend hours here just getting lost in the history. I particularly loved going through the mosaic exhibition.

As the sun sets, end your trip to this picturesque city with a shopping and street food spree at the nearby bazaars. Buy stuff for your walls, your family, your friends, and your dogs back home — they have affordable goodies for everyone. Try Balik Ekmek while you’re there (the ubiquitous fish sandwich), Lahmacun (Turkey’s delicious answer to thin crust pizza), and Adana kebab (smokey and one of the best uses of beef I can think of). 

Where to Stay

If you want to make full use of your time in Antalya, staying in the old town of Kaleici is a must. This place oozes charm, is centrally located, near all the shops and restaurants and is home to the best hotels in the city. And best among them in my humble opinion is the White Garden Hotel . Smack dab in the middle of all the action but still maintaining a serene atmosphere, the White Garden Hotel is ideal for a relaxing vacation or a romantic getaway. Beautiful heritage style rooms and an incredible Turkish breakfast, what more could you ask for? 

As with the vast majority of places the best time to visit is during the shoulder season. This would be around April- May and October- November. This is when the sun is shining, the summer rush of tourists are gone but the heat is at a manageable level. I visited during late August/ early December and while I had a blast it was truly sweltering, and as with anywhere near the sea the humidity only exasperated the problem, and the crowds were a little large for my liking. Nonetheless it was amazing weather for getting in the water.

The winter is a little cold for beach and water activities so while it is still worth traveling to for the old town, you will be missing out on a huge part of the Antalya experience. It is also a little more rainy this time of year so take that with a grain of salt. On the plus side, rates for hotels and tours will be much more affordable than they already are.

How to Get Around 

Getting around Antalya is pretty easy. Buy an AntalyaKart card for access on the trams and buses, these are really cheap, and you can top up at many stores or at any tram stop. The tram is also the most convenient and cheapest way to get into the city from the airport or bus station. If your destination is anywhere on the tram line, I would highly recommend using this method of transportation as it is clean, moves fast and comes every few minutes. 

The only problem is that it doesn’t go to many parts of the city and for the other areas your options are pretty limited to buses and Uber. The buses are also nice, but the only problem is they are not very regular but if you don’t mind waiting they are a great alternative. 

When all else fails Uber is your friend, I wouldn’t try hopping in a normal taxi as many don’t have the meter running and I can almost guarantee you the price will not be the local one. I traveled over a month in Turkey and while being amazed at the hospitality of the Turks, that does not extend to taxi drivers apparently. 

Tips and Tricks for Visiting Antalya 

• I say this for almost everywhere but buy a sim card! Trying to figure out where you’re going without Google Maps is not fun. Sim cards are easy to find and can be bought anywhere. Uber is also very helpful here so being able to access Wi-Fi can be a lifesaver.
• Learn a little bit of the local language to ingratiate yourself with the locals. Turkish people are renowned for their hospitality and most people you encounter will have some level of English. However, trying or even butchering a little bit of their local language will go a long way. Merhaba is the word for hello while thank you is teşekkürler (Teh-sheh-kull-erhz). It looks intimidating, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it!
• Ask before you take someone’s photo, especially women, as many Turkish people are not comfortable with their photos being taken by strangers (something we have in common).
• If you are buying something in the local market, just assume the price is around half of what they are trying to sell it for and bargain hard! They expect it but make sure you’re still friendly and don’t take the negotiation process too personally.
• Clothes in local retailers (not the open-air markets) are extremely cheap and fantastic quality as well. I stocked up on so much while I was there, and it was a great place to refresh my wardrobe during long term travel.
• If visiting a local mosque, make sure to respect customs and take off your shoes before entering. You’ll need cover your head, shoulders, and knees if you are a woman.

And That Was Antalya!

Antalya is one of my favorite places to visit and the kind of place you can keep coming back to again and again.

Whether as a base during in depth travel of southern Turkey or a place to come for a cheeky holiday weekend, there is never a wrong reason to come here.

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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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.

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TURKEY TRAVEL GUIDE TO ANTALYA 2024: Portable Travel guide to Antalya’s Exclusive attractions, accommodation, culture, Safety and Budget Tips for all age (TRAVEL GUIDE 2024) Paperback – April 11, 2024

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Turkey Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, turkey - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Syrian border due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Security forces have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with terrorist organizations based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated.  U.S. citizens have also been subject to travel bans that prevent them from departing Turkey. Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government (including on social media), can result in arrest.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Turkey.

If you decide to travel to Turkey:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
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Do not travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, or any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest.  Terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings, ambushes, car bomb detonations, and improvised explosive devices, as well as shootings, and illegal roadblocks leading to violence have occurred in these areas. U.S. government employees are subject to travel restrictions in the entire provinces of Sirnak and Hakkari, and any areas within 10 km of the Syrian border.

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17 Exciting Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey!

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

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Antalya is one of the most popular tourist spots on the Turkish Riviera, and not just because of its jaw-dropping coastline and world-class beach resorts.

Antalya is located near many of the best landmarks in Turkey , and its reliable transport system means it’s really easy to explore other areas in the country.

One of the main reasons to visit Antalya is its location. Being practically in the center of the country and nestled on the Turkish Riviera, you can pretty much take a day trip to most of the top sites in the country!

If you’re putting together your itinerary, then you might want to add some day trips from Antalya to your list. While Antalya itself has a whole host of incredible attractions, no trip to Turkey would be complete without visiting some of these Antalya day trips.

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 to Take a Day Trip From Antalya

First things first, let’s talk about the ways you can take a day trip. Antalya is a huge city and has a very reliable and trusty transport system. However, some of these day trips are quite a distance, so what is the best way to get to them?

If your chosen attraction is more than an hour or two driving distance outside of Antalya, your best bet would be to hire a car. While buses run regularly and are usually reliable, they are quite slow, and since you’re wanting to take a day trip you’ll want to save as much time as possible.

Some of these day trips require you to fly. Yes, on a plane! But don’t worry, since these attractions are hugely popular, airlines have scheduled flights from as early as 6 AM and returning as late as 11 PM, meaning you could actually fly across the country and see sites and come back the same day. Crazy, right?

Another great way to see day trips is through guided tours. This is the best way to see attractions for those who prefer a ‘no fuss’ way to travel since everything is planned and prepared for you.

In most cases, taking a tour from Antalya is safe and usually cover entrance fees and the cost of your transport, but this is not always the case. Do check with the tour company first to make sure, otherwise, it will be a very costly day out.

Tours will pick you up from your hotel, or a central location, for added convenience.

If you would prefer to do a DIY Antalya day trip, no problem! We prefer to work it out for ourselves too. Below in each of our recommended day trips, we have shared our recommended ‘way to get there’, which could be by bus, plane, hiring a car or tour.

It’s a good idea to see which attractions interest you the most, before thinking about transport as you might decide you’d like to take a couple of these day trips from Antalya.

The Best Day Trips from Antalya

So without further ado, here are the best day trips from Antalya, from historic landmarks to iconic natural settings, these attractions simply cannot be missed out on any Antalya itinerary .

Standing not far away from the ever-popular tourist town of Kusadasi, is one of the most iconic cities in the ancient region – Ephesus .

This oasis of archeological sites is one of the most famous landmarks in Turkey, known for its breathtaking 10th century BC Roman and Ancient Greek ruins.

The site covers almost 6.6 square km, featuring a wide collection of incredibly well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins. Ephesus was once the second largest city of the Roman Empire and therefore one of the most important; it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 .

It’s home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the spectacular Temple of Artemis. Over twice the size of any other similar ancient Greek temple sites, it took almost 120 years to complete, before being burnt down in 356 BC.

Other important sites in the complex are the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the mighty Roman Amphitheater capable of housing 24,000 spectators.

Although it’s a long distance from Antalya, it’s possible to travel there and back within a day if you are determined enough, though we recommend you stay overnight if you have more time at your disposal.

Ephesus is simply a must-see attraction in Turkey, especially if you only have a short time in the country and want to see some of the most iconic ancient sites!

• Distance from Antalya: 411 km (255 miles)
• Travel time: 5 hours by car, 7 hours by bus, 7 hours 25 minutes by train, 1 hour 10 minutes by plane plus an additional train for 1 hour.
• Best way to get there: To get to Ephesus, you must first get to Izmir. From Izmir, there are three ways to get to Ephesus . Take a plane from Antalya to Izmir Airport (1 hour 10 minutes). From Izmir airport, there is a train (1 hour) directly to Selcuk. From Selcuk, you can walk for 10 minutes to Ephesus, or take a minibus or taxi. There are flights with SunExpress that leave at around 9.20am, and get to Izmir at 10.30am, which would mean arriving at Ephesus at midday at the latest. We would recommend staying in Selcuk to get some lunch before visiting Ephesus since you’ll want to avoid the midday heat. Return flights operate as late as 10.30pm from Izmir Airport with SunExpress so there is plenty of time to enjoy the sites. If you don’t want to arrange it all yourself, you can also book a tour from Antalya to Ephesus.

2. Lycia Rock Tombs

For a perfect day trip adventure, head around two and a half hours south of Antalya to Dalyan, navigating your way along the beach road and following the beach and turquoise Mediterranean waters.

Soon you will have officially entered the land of the Lycians, the name of the people that lived in this area since the records of Ancient Egypt. The Lycians (pronounced Lik-ee-ans) believed that once you died, your spirit was carried to the afterlife by magical winged creatures.

To greater the chances of reaching said afterlife, the Lycians built intricately detailed tombs carved high up into the mountainside, they were mostly reserved for the Kings and Queens of the era.

Built almost 2500 years ago in 500BC, remarkably, these tomb sites are still in excellent condition today and can be seen in small numbers across the region.

• Distance from Antalya: 139 km (86 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes by car, 3 hours by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: The best way to get there is by hiring a car or taking the bus. Since it takes a couple hours, we recommend starting as early as possible. Alternatively, you can book onto a private tour which includes a hotel pick up and drop off.

3. Cappadocia

Contrary to popular belief, Cappadocia isn’t just a city, it’s actually the name for the entire central region of Turkey.

Famous for its breathtakingly beautiful landscape and fairytale-like hot air balloon rides that fill the morning sky, Cappadocia has so much to offer the weary traveler wishing to spend a few days in the area. It’s an excellent place for hikes too, with many trails dotted around the towns leading you to historical chimneys, castles, and sunset views to die for.

For something a little out of the ordinary, you should consider a guided tour of Derinkuyu Underground City , a vast, deep, underground city that was effectively a defensive haven during the brutal invasions of the Middle Ages, large enough to shelter up to 20,000 Cappadocia locals.

The distance from Antalya to Cappadocia is quite far, so you’re going to need to fly if you want to see it in a day, however it’s possible to do it.

You can also book yourself onto one of the red tours or green tours , which are day tours of the region. The tours can pick you up and drop you off at the airport, so you can catch a late evening flight back to Antalya.

It will be a bit of a rush, but if you’re short on time in Turkey and are not afraid of long days, then it’s certainly a journey worth taking.

• Distance from Antalya: 575 km (357 miles)
• Travel time: 7.5 hours by car, 10 hours by overnight bus, 1 hour 15 minute flight from Antalya to Kayseri Erkilet Airport.
• Best way to get there: Since it’s a long drive, the best way to get there is to fly. You can find flights leaving as early as 3AM with Turkish Airlines, transfer in Istanbul, and arrive in Nevsehir at 8AM. You will find return flights with Turkish Airlines at 8.50 PM and gets into Antalya at midnight, so you have a whole day of exploring. Since you only have a day, we recommend opting for either the green tour or red tour . You’ll be tired after, but it will be so worth it. If you have more time on your side, consider taking a 2-day tour of Cappadocia from Antalya with an overnight stay in a cave hotel.

4. Koprulu Canyon

One of the more popular day tours from Antalya and the local region is Koprulu Canyon. A favorite of the locals and tourists alike, it’s a strikingly picturesque national park for swimming, relaxation, and for those brave enough to attempt, even some white water rafting.

Perfect for escaping the heat of the beach, which trust us, if you’re visiting in the summer you’re going to need to find places to cool down in!

With a monumental stone bridge across the Canyon itself the star of the show, there are also smaller bridges more than worthy of checking out too, allowing you to capture the perfect Instagram shot.

With activities like horse riding and quad safaris on offer as well, there’s so much to do here that you might even decide to make use of the camping facilities at the canyon.

• Distance from Antalya: 91 km (56 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes by car, 45 minutes by bus to Serik and 50 minutes taxi, not available by train
• Best way to get there: Since you would need to take a bus and a taxi (and a 50 minute taxi journey would be expensive) the best and most economical way to get to Koprulu Canyon is to hire a car and drive. If you don’t drive, you can find private tours from local travel agencies to take you to Koprulu Canyon from Antalya, which will pick you up from your hotel and drop you back at your hotel after a full day of exploring.

5. The Taurus Mountains

Running almost parallel with the gorgeous Mediterranean sea lies the snow-capped peaks of the Taurus Mountain range (well, snow-capped in the winter). Throughout Turkey’s rich and diverse history, the Taurus Mountains have remained an iconic symbol of its mythological past.

Boasting rugged limestone terrain and towering peaks and cascading waterfalls, the mountain range is home to small, traditional villages where you can stop for a local lunch and get to know those that live in this remote region of Turkey.

Interestingly, the range gets its name from the historic culture of the surrounding land with the bull (Taurus) and being only a few hour’s drive away, it makes for an excellent day trip from Antalya.

• Distance from Antalya: 250 km (155 miles)
• Travel time: 3 hours by car, not available by bus or train
• Best way to visit: Since there are no trains or buses, the best way to visit is to hire a car and drive. Alternatively, you can find excursions from Antalya that will pick you up from any hotel and drop you home after. If you don’t drive, a day tour is your only option.

6. Fethiye and Oludeniz

Fethiye is an immensely popular tourist resort city nestled along the golden sands of the Turquoise Coast. Arguably one of its main drawing points is Oludeniz, a small town just 15-minutes drive away, which is home to the iconic Blue Lagoon .

It’s got everything a coastal city needs – from huge, stunning Fethiye beaches and promenade, exquisite Turkish restaurants and cafes specializing in the most delicious, fresh seafood, to huge forested mountains like that of Mount Babadag, Fethiye is one excersion you simply have to make.

Not only is the water of the lagoon warm and crystal clear, but its sand is also sumptuously soft making it an ideal place to catch some rays.

If you’d like a more active day trip from Antalya to Fethiye, then worry not. Fethiye is the paragliding capital of Turkey and is one of the highest paragliding jump sites in the world. It’s also a great place to partake in water sports such as stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, and peddle boating.

After a day at the beach, head down to the promenade in Oludeniz to enjoy one of the bars along the seafront, or head over to the ancient abandoned village of Kayakoy for a more cultural experience.

• Distance from Antalya: 194.8 km (121 miles)
• Travel time: 3 hours by car, 5.5 hours by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: Since it’s a long drive, you’re only option would be to hire a car and set off very early.

Konya is a major city in south-central Turkey and is steeped in history after having been inhabited since the third millennium (3000) BC.

Within Turkey itself, it’s widely regarded as the country’s ‘spiritual’ capital and as a result, has been almost forgotten about by tourists from all over.

One of the main attractions in Konya is the fascinating tomb of the Persian Sufi mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, or better known as Rumi. He’s often regarded as one of history’s best, and most influential poets. Rather confusingly for the tourist, Rumi’s tomb name is the Mevlana Museum .

Even if you aren’t familiar with Rumi or his work, the Tomb is simply a must-see when in the area. The interior is sure to take your breath away. Best of all – it’s free!

Konya is a small city and can be seen in a full day, however if you don’t want to get up early to drive to Konya we recommend staying one night and driving back the next day, and seeing Konya over two half days.

• Distance from Antalya: 300 km (186 miles)
• Travel time: 4 hours by car, 6 hours by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: it’s going to be a long trek, but you’ve got little choice but to hire a car and drive. You’d need to get up early, but it’s doable.

8. Pamukkale & Hierapolis

Where to start with Pamukkale . Just like Cappadocia, Pamukkale is a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site and is probably one of the most photogenic places on the planet. This is exactly why you would be a fool not to visit whilst you’re in the country.

Pamukkale literally translates to ‘Cotton Castle’ in Turkish, and is a completely natural site known for the carbonate mineral which has been left by the flowing waters of the Cal Mountain. It’s also famous for its hot water thermal springs which you can actually swim in.

Once you’re done exploring the scenery of Pamukkale, you can head to the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis which is located at the top of the mineral deposits.

The ancient city of Hieropolis dates back to the early 2nd century BC and was built in its location to make use of the hot thermal springs from nearby Pamukkale.

Because of this, it was known as a ‘spa town’ and thousands flocked to Hieropolis to experience the natural wonders on its doorstep.

Unfortunately, like many ancient Greek cities in the area, it was destroyed by an earthquake that didn’t leave much standing. However, you can still see the well-preserved theater and its necropolis with tombs to give you an idea of the layout of this magnificent place. The North Gate is also largely preserved.

History buffs and travelers will also revel in the fact you can also see the tomb of Philip the Apostle too.

For a day trip from Antalya to remember, this is the one – if only you remember it for the long car ride! Don’t worry though, you can find a bunch of tour operators that will run this day trip and include hotel pick up and drop off.

• Distance from Antalya: 240 km (149 miles)
• Travel time: 3 hours by car, 3 hours 15 minutes by bus, N/A minutes by train
• Best way to get there: The best way to get there is by hiring a car or taking a bus, since the bus is only 15 minutes longer. If you don’t want to look up bus times and plan your day, you can also take a guided tour to Pamukkale, which also stops by Hierapolis.

9. The Ancient City of Perge

Wonderfully easy to get to from Antalya city center is the stunning ancient city of Perge . Known for its magnificent amphitheater that housed a capacity of 15,000 people, the old Roman ruins date back well over 3000 years.

The Perge site is vast of ancient ruins, and with buildings like the city’s temple, crumbling school buildings, and its traditional Roman baths to marvel at, you’ll get an idea of what life was really like at Perge all those years ago.

Perhaps most interestingly, Alexander the Great was noted to have ridden horseback through Perge’s gates. Only a short 20-minute drive outside of Antalya, and accessible via the city’s tram network followed by an easy 30 minute walk, Perge is one place you cannot afford to miss.

In fact, it was probably our favorite place we visited on our trip to Antalya. Allow yourself a good 3 hours to explore it all, it’s surprisingly big.

We also recommend visiting late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day. It can get quite hot at Perge because it lies within a valley.

• Distance from Antalya: 16 km (10 miles)
• Travel time: 20 minutes by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: Perge is a really easy day trip to get to by hiring a car or taking a public bus. Buses go direct from Mevlana Cd-1 Antalya and depart every 20 minutes. It takes just over an hour, so it’s completely doable to do this by yourself. If you want a no fuss way to travel, you can find tours that take you to Perge, as well as to other sites nearby like Aspendos and the waterfalls. If you’re not hiring a car, this might be a good option since it’s not easy to get around these other places by public transport.

10. The Sunken City of Kekova

If you’d like to get off the beaten track and see something that most have not, then simply take a boat trip from Antalya to the small Turkish island of Kekova from the coastal town of Demre.

Its waters and coast line are beautiful, however, what really steals the show is the partly sunken ruins of the ancient town of Kekova that once stood on the island.

Destroyed by an earthquake during the 2nd century, Kekova was rebuilt and remained a working dockyard until it was abandoned due to Arabic invasions.

The Turkish government have banned swimming around the ruins due to looting, however it still makes for excellent viewing with plenty of opportunities to get great pictures. You can take boat tours and kayak tours.

• Distance from Antalya: 140 km (87 miles)
• Best way to get there: The best way to get there is by hiring a car and driving, or you can take the bus since it goes direct from Kızılırmak Cd-5 to Demre. From Demre, the only way to see Kekova is by boat tour, which you can purchase on arrival in Demre.If you don’t want all the fuss, it’s also possible to book a tour from Antalya which picks you up and drops you off at your hotel.

Alanya is another coastal city not to be missed, especially if you enjoy lazing on the beach and discovering ancient cities.

The biggest draw to Alanya is Kleopatra Beach, a 1km beach that’s named after the Queen of Egypt, who was said to have enjoyed swimming there.

The beach has soft sand and gentle waves, which make for the perfect place to relax and enjoy a day by the coast.

Another top site to check out in Alanya is Alanya Castle, which is perched on a hilltop overlooking Kleopatra Beach on one side, and the marina on the other. You can reach the castle by a short 5-minute cable car ride or you can hike or take a bus.

The castle is surrounded by a citadel filled with ancient sites and ruins, and flanked by an ancient city wall. It’s free to walk around the citadel but you have to pay to enter the castle area (which we personally don’t think is worth it – see why here ).

Alanya is a buzzing city but it feels quite relaxed compared to Antalya. Although possible to see on a day trip, you may decide you want to stay a few days!

• Distance from Antalya: 133 km (149 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours by car, 3 hours by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: Since the bus takes a long time and the bus station is a distance from the center of Antalya, it’s easier to hire a car and drive.

📚 Read more: 16 Fascinating Museums in Antalya

12. Tahtali Mountain

The Tahtali Mountain, also known as Tahtali Dagi or Lycian Olympus, is one of the largest peaks in Southern Turkey. Standing mightily tall at a whopping 7,762 ft, back in Ancient Greece the mountain was called Mount Olympus.

If you’re unfamiliar with Ancient Greece and its mythology, Olympus actually means ‘home of the gods’. As we’ve pointed out, there are many ancient cities lying in ruin across this area of the country and that’s no different with Tahtali. The 2700-year-old town of Phaselis lies in ruin at the base of the mountain which you can visit for yourself.

If climbing a mountain isn’t particularly your thing whilst on holiday, luckily, there is a funicular which takes you to the summit of the peak, giving you easy access to the sublime views of the region.  

• Distance from Antalya: 72 km (44 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes by car, 1 hour 20 minutes by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: Unless you’re thinking of hiring a car to visit other day trips from Antalya, it’s probably easier to get a bus. If you don’t like figuring out bus routes, then you can always opt for a tour from Antalya. Though this does include the funicular to the peak. If you want to hike, you would find it easier to hire a car as you can park at the trailhead.

13. Kuzdere Passage Hike

The Kuzdere Passage is a gorgeous hiking trail that is part of the much larger group of trails called the Lycian Way. If you’re into hiking and love to get your blood pumping, then this should be at the top of your to-do list if you’re in the area.

Under 1 hour from Antalya, it leads you through jaw-dropping valleys, past a fast river, lush green woodland, and incredible views, there really isn’t any excuse not to head out and explore on foot.

Oh – and did we mention, natural springs are conveniently located along the way for you to take a break and cool off from the scorching Turkish sun. Bliss!

• Distance from Antalya: 46 km (28 miles)
• Travel time: 45 minutes by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: Since it’s not too far out of Antalya, you can get a public bus to Kemer from Antalya Büyükşehir Belediyesi-2 and then take a taxi to the trailhead.

14. Aspendos & Side Old Town

If you enjoyed the historical site of Perge, then you’ll enjoy visiting Aspendos and the nearby town of Side, which are two other ancient historical landmarks from the Greco-Roman period.

Aspendos is an ancient city, though little remains of it besides a very well-preserved amphitheatre. In fact, the theatre is still used for operas and performances today.

Nearby is the town of Side, which as well as its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes, also has quaint cobbled streets and and ruins scattered around its old town.

Some notable landmarks are the Apollon Temple, Side Amphitheatre, and the remains of the Agora. The town is also lined with shops, bars, and restaurants built into the ruins, creating a unique ambiance.

• Distance from Antalya: 48.2 km (121 miles) to Aspendos, 73.5 km to Side
• Travel time: 45 minutes by car to Aspendos, 1 hour to Side
• Best way to get there: Aspendos is not easy to visit using public transport since the buses run infrequently and there’s still a 50 minute walk from where the bus drops you off to the site. You should hire a car and drive yourself or book a day tour. We made the mistake of visiting Aspendos ourselves without taking a day trip from Antalya, and what a mistake that was! We took a bus from Side and then discovered there was no bus back and had to hitchhike in the dark. Don’t make the same mistake we did and book yourself a tour or get a hire car.

15. Adrasan-Suluada Island

If boat trips and a golden beach in Antalya are what get you up in the morning, then you should be all over this day trip to the Adrasan-Suluada Island. Just a short 40-minute sailing away, you’ll be given access to a small but wonderful island.

Often compared to the Maldives, Suluada’s calm turquoise waters are home to a natural reef and as a result, you can have the pleasure of getting up close to a vast array of marine wildlife.

With no electricity or running water on the tiny island, it’s really only for day trips, however, if you’d like to spend multiple days there, you can stay in the nearby town of Adrasan or Olympos.

• Distance from Antalya: 90 km (55 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes by car to Adrasan, or 1 hour 50 minutes by bus, and then 45 minutes by boat
• Best way to get there: Since its an island, the only way to get there is by boat. You will need to get to Adrasan first, where the boats depart from. You can either drive or take the bus from Antalya bus station. Buses depart every 3 hours so make sure to check the times before you go. If you’re worried about time, you can also book a tour in advance. These boat tours pick you up from your hotel and drive to Adrasan where a boat is waiting for you.

16. Goynuk Canyon

If you’re looking for an active day trip nearby Antalya, then Goynuk Canyon is one of the places you simply HAVE to visit. Famous across the region for its astounding beauty, a variety of activities can be done at the park utilizing the rugged terrain it sits upon.

At the heart of the canyon is a fast-flowing wild river that’s used for white-water rafting, and a little further in you can find a gorgeous waterfall and the opportunity to go on a safari tour that makes the most of the nature and beauty of the park.

You’ll need to carry some change as there is a small entrance fee to gain access to the Canyon.

• Distance from Antalya: 36 km (22 miles)
• Travel time: 45 minutes by car, 50 minutes by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: It’s very easy to get to by public bus. Buses leave from Kızılırmak Cd-5 every 8 minutes and take you directly to the canyon.

Kemer is an idyllic town on the coast of the Turkish Riviera that’s free and easily accessible from Antalya. Widely known for its huge stretch of pebble beach together with its large marina, Kemer is a beautiful spot if you’d like to get off the beaten track and do some sightseeing.

Behind the town, nearby, is the sumptuously green pine forests of the Beydaglari National Park, where you can go for hikes and explore the hills of southern Turkey. This is also the location of the beginning of the cable car to the summit of Tahtali Mountain (Olympos) which we touched on earlier.

Kemer’s market is also a fantastic place to source local produce, running every day from early morning to early evening.

• Distance from Antalya: 44 km (27 miles)
• Travel time: 45 minutes by car, 45 minutes by bus, not available by train
• Best way to get there: There is a public bus that leaves from İl Sağlık Müdürlüğü and takes you directly to Kemer. It runs every 20 minutes and takes 45 minutes. Of course, if you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Kemer, you can book Antalya day tours to Kemer too.

FAQs About Antalya Day Trips

Here is what people usually ask us about day trips from Antalya…

How many days is enough for Antalya?

3 days is probably enough to see Antalya, but if you’re adding day trips, you might want to extend your stay to 5-7 days.

Is Cappadocia close to Antalya?

No, Cappadocia is far from Antalya by 413 km. It is best to fly to Cappadocia from Antalya as the bus takes 8.5 hours.

What is Antalya best known for?

Antalya is best known for its world-class resorts, Mediterranean beaches and historic Roman landmarks.

Is Pammukale close to Antalya?

Yes, Pammukale is about 3.5 hours from Antalya by car. The distance is 236 km.

Final Word on Day Trips from Antalya

So there you have it, our top 17 Antalya day trips! As you can see, there is a huge variety of attractions to choose from. While you might be thinking some of these are not possible as a day trip, with some careful planning and organization, anything is possible!

Is there somewhere on this list you would like to go to? 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.

4 thoughts on “17 Exciting Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey!”

What the hell you cannot do Ephesus or Cappadocia or anything else involving flights on a day trip.. stupid suggestions.

Hey Karmen,

Thank you for your input. These places are quite far from Antalya, so you would have to get an early flight (the earliest one is usually around 7 to 9 AM) and then take the latest flight back. It is possible, but it might not be worth it since you won’t be able to spend a very long time in these places, especially in Cappadocia where you need several days.

Hi, I appreciate your effort to provide the valuable and very useful information, but many of these are not day trips.

Might I suggest, anything over 2hrs each way (at most) is an overnighter, and even that’s a stretch for most people spending 4 hours in transport.

Hi Sam, thank you for your comment. Yes, some of these are quite a long day trip from Antalya, however they are all doable in a day. It’s quite common to see day tours to Pamukkale, Ephesus and Cappadocia from Antalya for example. While there is a lot of travel involved, it’s great for people who are short on time and don’t have a long time to spend in Turkey. You are right that anywhere over 2 hours drive is best seen as an overnight stay and that’s how we would prefer to see some of these places, but if you are short on time, it’s totally possible to visit these destinations as a day trip.

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