antalya tourist guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Apply for an E-visa for Turkey

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

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

Good luck with it!

Antalya at a Glance

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

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

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

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

Antalya in History

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

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

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

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

Here’s a bit more information about that.

May-September

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

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

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

October-November and April

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

December-March

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

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

How to Travel to Antalya

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around Antalya

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Exchange Currency

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay

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

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

Here are some of the options available according to place.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Options for Stays

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

What to do in Antalya?

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

Make Your Day at the Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walk Around in Old Town

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Try Scuba Diving

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go Skiing (Yes, Skiing!)

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

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

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

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

Take a Tour to the Waterfalls

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

Manavgat Waterfall

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

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

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

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

Düden Waterfalls

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

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

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

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

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

Kurşunlu Waterfall

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

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

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

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

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

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

Points of Interest for History Lovers (With Map)

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

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

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

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

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

Visit the Ancient City of Aspendos

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

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

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

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

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

See the Ancient City of Side

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

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

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

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

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

Read my Antalya Tours Guide for more information.

Where to Eat?

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

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

Zaika Meyhane

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

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

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

Oburus Momus

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

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

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

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

Ramiz Grill House

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

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

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

Burnt Ice Cream for Dessert

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

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

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

Finike Orange

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

Budget/ Summary of Expenses

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

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

Accommodations

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

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

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

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

Transportation

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

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

Tour and/or Museum Fees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Antalya. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

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 Guide to Visiting Antalya: Discover Beaches & History 2024

Discovering the jewel of the turkish riviera.

Nestled along the stunning Turkish Riviera, Antalya is a haven of pristine beaches, historical treasures, and vibrant culture. This guide aims to uncover the beauty of Antalya, ensuring your visit is as enriching as it is memorable.

Exploring Antalya’s Historic Heart

Kaleiçi : Antalya’s old town, Kaleiçi, is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, flanked by ancient Roman walls. Stroll around to discover Ottoman-era houses, cozy cafes, and the iconic Hadrian’s Gate.

Antalya Museum : A must-visit for history enthusiasts, this museum houses artifacts dating back to the Paleolithic era. It offers a deep dive into the region’s rich history and heritage.

Basking in Natural Beauty

Düden Waterfalls : These majestic waterfalls are a natural wonder not to be missed. The upper falls offer a tranquil park setting, perfect for picnics, while the lower falls plunge directly into the Mediterranean.

Konyaaltı and Lara Beaches : For sun, sea, and sand, head to these popular beaches. Konyaaltı boasts a stunning mountain backdrop, whereas Lara is known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

Adventure and Activities

For the thrill-seekers, Antalya offers a range of activities:

• Paragliding in Ölüdeniz : Experience breathtaking views of the coast while soaring through the sky.
• Hiking in the Taurus Mountains : Explore the natural beauty of the region with a hike through its rugged terrain.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Antalya’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Be sure to try local specialties like “kebabs” and “baklava,” and enjoy fresh seafood along the harbor.

Antalya Tours

To fully appreciate the richness of Antalya, consider joining one of the many Antalya tours . These tours offer guided experiences of the city’s historical sites , natural attractions, and hidden gems.

Dreams of Distant Lands

As our journey through Antalya comes to a close, we’re left with memories of sun-drenched days and echoes of history that resonate deep within its ancient stones. Antalya is not just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you, calling you back to its enchanting shores and timeless ruins.

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ANTALYA TRAVEL GUIDE & THINGS TO DO

The Antalya Region is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. Famous for its beautiful beaches , historical sites, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine and great hospitality , Antalya is a perfect place to explore for any traveller.

This comprehensive travel guide will provide everything you need to know about planning your trip to Antalya, including the best attractions , places to visit and things to do and also provides a detailed map , photos and an itinerary .

INTRODUCTION TO ANTALYA

Why visit antalya?

Antalya is known for its great beaches along the Mediterranean coast with its crystal-clear waters, lush green mountains and historical sites.

Antalya enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. This makes it an attractive year-round destination for those seeking sun and pleasant weather.

Antya region offers a wide range of beach resorts with excellent amenities. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly all-inclusive resort or a romantic hotel getaway, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Antalya is also a great place to enjoy diverse outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, rafting, paragliding and water sports.

The region is also home to numerous ancient ruins , including the well-preserved ancient city of Perge , Aspendos with its Roman theatre, Phaselis, Olympos, Termessos, Xanthos and Patara.

The Antalya region has many interesting towns and places to visit like the capital Antalya with its attractive old town and harbour, the ancient city of Side , Alanya with its great castle, Kalkan and the more relaxed town of Kas .

BEST TIME TO VISIT ANTALYA

The best time to visit Antalya depends on your preferences and what you want to experience.

• Spring: Spring is a fantastic time to visit Antalya. The weather is pleasantly warm, and nature is at its most beautiful with blooming flowers and lush landscapes. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and avoiding the summer crowds.
• Summer: Summer is the high tourist season with hot and dry weather. It’s the best time for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this period. It can be unbearable hot for outdoor activities and visiting ancient ruins.
• Autumn: Early autumn is still warm, and the sea is comfortable for swimming. It’s a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the pleasant weather while avoiding the peak summer season. Late autumn brings cooler temperatures, but it’s still suitable for exploring the region.
• Winter: Antalya has a mild winter, with daytime temperatures that can be quite comfortable, especially for travellers coming from colder climates. Just note that some beach resorts may close during this season and the sea is too cold for swimming.

For me, the best time to visit Antalya is during late spring or early autumn . May, June, September and October are probably the best months for sightseeing and day trips as you can enjoy the sights with comfortable temperatures, but without the large crowds. Also, it is warm enough to enjoy the beach and swim in the sea.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN ANTALYA

One week will be enough to enjoy the beach and cover most of the major sights in the Antalya region, but you would need to stay longer if you want to explore everything that the Antalya region has to offer.

Two weeks will be sufficient to cover the western Mediterranean coast from Alanya to Fethiye at a relaxed pace.

One option is to arrive at Antalya airport and depart from Dalaman airport to avoid returning back to Antalya, although renting a car from one airport and returning to a different airport can be quite expensive. You can see my 7-day itinerary suggestion below.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE ANTALYA REGION

Antalya offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Here are some popular areas to consider when choosing where to stay in the Antalya region:

• Kaleiçi (Antalya Old Town): Staying in the historic heart of Antalya’s old town, Kaleiçi, provides a charming and atmospheric experience. You’ll be close to historic sites, restaurants, and boutique hotels.
• Lara Beach: Lara is known for its luxurious all-inclusive resorts right on the beach. This area is great for beach lovers and those seeking high-end accommodations, but It’s a bit further away from the city centre.
• Konyaaltı Beach: Konyaaltı Beach offers a mix of beachfront hotels, budget-friendly options, and a local atmosphere. It’s close to the city centre that can be accessed by tram.
• Belek: If you’re a golf enthusiast, Belek is a popular area known for its golf resorts and high-quality accommodations. It’s further away from Antalya city and you will need your own transport or taxis to get around.
• Side: If you’re interested in historical sites, staying in Side provides easy access to the ancient city’s ruins and it is also close to two beautiful beaches.
• Alanya: Alanya is another coastal city known for its great castle and vibrant nightlife. Most hotels are located close to Kleopatra Beach.
• Kemer: Kemer offers a mix of beach resorts, nature activities in the Taurus Mountains, and a lively nightlife scene.
• Cirali and Olympos: These areas offer a more laid-back and natural experience, with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to treehouses. They are close to the Olympos Ruins and the Chimaera flames.
• Kaş and Kalkan: These more relaxed towns are located to the southwest of Antalya and close to some great sights like Patara, Xanthos and Kekova.

Best hotels in Antalya

• Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort : A top-notch, all-inclusive resort with golf courses, fine dining, and excellent amenities.
• Rixos Premium Belek : A popular beachfront resort offering a variety of activities and entertainment options.
• Titanic Mardan Palace : A luxurious and grand hotel with impressive facilities, lavish interiors, close to Lara Beach.
• Rixos Downtown Antalya : A luxury hotel with modern amenities, multiple dining options, and a spa close to Antalya Archaeological Museum and Konyaalti Beach.
• The Marmara Antalya : Known for its unique revolving rooms and beautiful views of the Mediterranean.
• Tuvana Hotel : Located in the heart of Antalya’s Old Town (Kaleiçi), Tuvana Hotel offers charming rooms in a historic building
• Dogan Hotel
• Celentano Hotel
• Diamond Luxury Hotel
• Akra Hotel : A modern and stylish hotel offering great views of the sea and the city.
• Delphin Imperial Hotel Lara : A family-friendly resort with water parks and entertainment options.
• Megasaray Westbeach Antalya
• DoubleTree by Hilton Antalya City Centre
• Aqua Princess Hotel : Great hotel within walking distance of Kas town centre with its own pool and private beach, excellent breakfast and private parking.
• Hotel Gardenia :
• Hotel Villa Turka : Located in Alanya
• Crystal Sunrise Queen Luxury Resort & Spa: A family-friendly resort with a beachfront setting, aqua park, and multiple activities, close to Side .
• Doria Hotel & Yacht Club
• Olea Nova Boutique Hotel
• Susesi Luxury Resort
• Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa
• Crowne Plaza Antalya
• Porto Bello Hotel Resort & Spa
• Konyaalti Hotel
• Olympos Lodge Otel
• Titanic Deluxe Lara
• Elysee Beach Hotel
• Sun Beach Hotel
• Royal Alhambra Palace
• Hotel Side Star Beach
• Barut Kemer
• Crystal De Luxe Resort & Spa

Click here to check and compare prices on accommodation for the whole Antalya Region.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Entry requirements/visa.

Most foreign visitors are not required to obtain a visa to enter Turkey for tourism for up to 90 days.

However, tourists from some countries need a visa to enter Turkey. Most citizens can  get an electronic visa (e-Visa).

Tourists who meet the e-Visa requirements are granted either a  single or multiple entry visa , depending on their nationality. The maximum length of stay with the e-Visa varies from 30 to 90 days.

For full details regarding visa requirements check this website .

Antalya is generally a safe place and you shouldn’t encounter any issues during your stay. However, it’s worth being vigilant for pickpockets in crowded places and scams in tourist places. Generally, the crime rate in Antalya is very low.

Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance before you travel is always recommended. You never know what might happen; better to be fully covered in case of an accident, medical emergency, flight delays or trip cancellations.

SafetyWing is an excellent choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

Antalya enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

• Summer (June to August): Summers in Antalya are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C and reaching their peak in July and August.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings pleasant, warm weather to Antalya with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 28°C. November is a bit colder.
• Winter (December to February): Winters in Antalya are mild and relatively wet. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 16°C, and there is more rainfall during these months. Snowfall is rare on the coast but can be seen in the Taurus Mountains.
• Spring (March to May): Temperatures gradually warm up with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 23°C.

More information regarding the weather and average temperatures can be found here .

Travel Gear

Here’s a list of travel gear and essentials to consider for your trip to Antalya:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm climate.
• Swimsuits, cover-ups, and beachwear
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring historical sites and walking in the city.
• Sun protection gear, including sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
• Universal power adapter (if your devices have different plug types).
• Portable power bank.
• A small backpack for day trips and carrying essentials while exploring.
• Basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes and painkillers.
• Insect repellent, especially if you plan to spend time in nature.

For information on travel gear and what to pack click here .

Turkish is the official language. The Turkish alphabet is based on Latin letters.  Most people in the tourist areas speak some English.

Basic words:

• Hello – Merhaba
• Goodbye – Görüşürüz
• Yes = Evet
• Thank you = Teşekkürler or teşekkür ederim
• You’re welcome = Rica Ederim
• Please = Lütfen
• Excuse me = Pardon
• Good morning = Günaydın
• Good night = İyi Geceler
• Good day = İyi günler
• Cheers = şerefe

The currency is the turkish lira (TL). The currency code for the turkish lira is TRY and the currency symbol is ₺.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s worth having some cash with you as some places won’t accept cards.

The best way to get local currency is through an ATM that can be found in most areas. Unfortunately, most banks take a commission, so it’s worth finding an international bank, e.g. HSBC that doesn’t charge.

Turkey is quite affordable; however the prices can get much higher in tourist resorts since many restaurants and tours cater only for foreign tourists. You need to go outside of the main tourist areas to get a better deal on food and shopping. Also, the prices on most tourist sites are more expensive to tourists than locals, who get a special price.

Tipping is customary in Turkey. In restaurants, it’s common to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill. You can also tip porters, drivers, and other service providers accordingly.

Electricity

The power plugs and sockets in Turkey are of type C & F (with two round pins). The voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Internet/Mobile Phone

The best option is to buy a local SIM card, in order to avoid high roaming costs. However, it is not cheap as there is a standard minimum price for tourists, which is more or less the same on all mobile providers, around 30 euros.

The 3 major mobile providers are Turkcell, Vodafone & Turk Telecom (Avea). Turkcell is the largest mobile network operator in Turkey and offers extensive coverage throughout the country.

You can buy a prepaid SIM card in one of the local mobile stores in the city or even at the airport (although better avoided as it is always more expensive). It is straightforward, but you will need to carry your passport as proof of ID.

Another option is to buy an eSIM card instead before you travel. Airalo is a great option that offers eSIM-based data services at reasonable prices without the hassle of inserting a real SIM card; however be aware that it is only compatible with the latest mobile phones.

Local Customs

When visiting mosques, remove your shoes before entering and dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

It’s polite to ask for permission before taking photos.

HOW TO GET TO ANTALYA

Antalya Airport ( Antalya Havalimani ) is the second biggest airport in terms of passenger traffic in Turkey and serves both domestic and international destinations.

Domestically it is connected to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir & Adana with Turkish Airlines, as well as Pegasus and SunExpress.

It is connected with low-cost airlines to most European countries during the summer months, but predominantly flights from the UK, Germany and Russia are the most frequent and to a lesser extent Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, the Netherlands and CIS states (ex USSR countries).

There are two terminals which are approximately 2.5 km away from each other and this distance takes approximately 5 minutes by car. You can use the public bus or taxi service that serves both terminals.

In the wider region, there is also Dalaman Airport ( Dalaman Havalimani ), which is located near the town of Dalaman and 40km from Fethiye. It serves domestic and international low-cost flights mainly the UK, Russia and Istanbul.

Getting from/to the airport

Antalya airport is located about 10km to the east of the city of Antalya and it can be reached by car or taxi in about 20-30min depending on traffic.

There are taxis available outside the Arrivals Terminal. The taxi fare from Antalya Airport to the city centre is charged according to a meter. The cost is around  250 – 300 TL , depending on the distance travelled and the time of day. Ensure the taxi is official and uses a meter or agrees on a fare before starting the journey.

Transport is also provided from Antalya Airport to Antalya Intercity Bus Terminal or the city centre by public buses. You can find out the bus departure times from the “Antalyakart” mobile application.

Municipal bus line 600 runs regularly between the airport and downtown Antalya. Buses depart from International Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at 30-minute intervals. The travel time to Antalya is approximately one hour.

AntRay provides a tram service in the Airport – Meydan – Fatih direction, carrying passengers to Antalya Airport, city centre, Antalya Intercity Bus Terminal and Fatih.

If you come to Antalya with a tour operator, you will be most likely transported to your final destination by a shuttle bus. The tour operator’s welcome desks are located right outside the terminal.

Alternatively, you can rent a car in one of the rental offices at the airport. The airport is the best place to book if you haven’t done it before you arrive.

Antalya is well connected with a good road network , and buses to the rest of Turkey. Bus and train travel in Turkey is very affordable and a good option if you want to explore nearby towns but can be time-consuming.

YHT high-speed trains now link Istanbul and Ankara with Konya. Connecting buses run between Konya to Antalya & Alanya in connection with the YHT trains, a much better way to travel than taking the bus all the way from Istanbul or Ankara.

Rome2Rio is a good website for checking prices & times on train and bus travel .

HOW TO GET AROUND

I would recommend  hiring a car  if you would like to  explore  the Antalya Region at your own pace as you can make the most of your time and enjoy this beautiful part of the country without having to rely on public transport timetables and expensive taxis.

The best place to rent a car is at Antalya or Dalaman airport if you haven’t done it before you arrive. Car rental is quite inexpensive but it is always better to book in advance before your travel for the best deals. Also in high season, there might be low availability and the prices can be much higher if you leave it until you arrive. Check the link below to book and compare car rental prices.

It is also worth buying excess car insurance in advance. It is much cheaper than buying at the car rental company desk when you pick up the car. Then at least you won’t need to worry about money or hassle if the car gets damaged.

Driving in Antalya

Driving can be a bit intimidating in the main cities like Antalya or Alanya but outside the big cities driving is fine and the roads are in good condition. There is a good dual carriageway for most parts along the Antalya Coast, although there are lots of traffic lights at junctions.

Be aware of the speed limits as there are speed cameras. The speed limit is 90km/h in the dual carriageway, 120km/h for motorways and 50km/h in built-up areas. Often the speed will go down to 50km/h for a small intersection on a major highway. Police roadblocks are quite common as well as the cardboard cutouts of police cars with a warning light by the side of the highway.

It’s worth downloading the offline Google maps for the part of your journey to save any bought data. However, sometimes Google maps can direct you to smaller roads that can be in poor condition as a faster route. It is recommended to stick to the main roads and follow the road signs instead.

Parking is not a problem in most of the ancient sites but in towns and some beaches, parking can be an issue at peak summer months as it can get very busy.

There is on-street parking in most cities but it can be difficult to find so might be worth using a parking garage in cities like Antalya or Alanya where you can park your car for a fee. It is recommended to book hotels with parking in these cities, as well as Side and Kas.

Taxis are relatively inexpensive in Turkey and the price is calculated using a taximeter based on time and distance. Taxis are yellow with a Taksi sign at the top of the car. It is easy to find a taxi from the street or ask your hotel to book you one or go to a taxi stand. It is always best to carry cash on you when taking a taxi as most taxis do not accept card payments. Make sure the taxi has a meter, or agree on the fare before starting your journey. Taxis are a convenient option for short trips or when you need to go to a specific location.

You can also use Uber in Antalya city.

There is no railway connecting the Antalya coast of Turkey.

By Bus & Tram

Tram: There is a tram system in the city of Antalya, the light rail line AntRay, with two main lines, one that connects the north of the city to the centre and the most recent one that connects the Airport, Aksu and Expo 2016 with Fatih to the west.

There is also the nostalgic tram line that runs from Antalya Museum, close to Konyaalti beach through the old town and up to Lara beach. You can get information about the tram including a map here .

Buses: Antalya has an extensive network of city buses operated by the Antalya Metropolitan Municipality. Buses connect various neighbourhoods and can take you to different parts of the city. You can check the routes and schedules at bus stops or online. The  AntalyaKart  is a card ticket that is valid on all public buses and trams in Antalya and the AlanyaKart is used for all public buses in Alanya. 

Dolmuş: Dolmuş are shared minivans that operate on specific routes and pick up passengers along the way. They are a flexible mode of transportation, but they may not have fixed schedules. They are an economical way to get around and are commonly used by locals.

Cycling is a good way of exploring the city and reaching neighbourhoods further away from the old town. Antalya is becoming more bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and rental services available in some areas. Cycling along the Konyaaltı Beach Promenade or Lara Beach is a perfect way of exploring the area. There is a bicycle rental service,  Antbis , with rental points located throughout the beach and city centre.

WHERE TO EAT IN ANTALYA

Antalya offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Turkish cuisine to international fare. Here are some popular areas and places to eat in Antalya Region:

• Kaleiçi (Antalya Old Town): The historic old town of Antalya is filled with charming restaurants and cafes.
• Antalya’s Old harbour: Nice area by the sea with some good seafood restaurants.
• Konyaalti Beach: Lost of choice of restaurants,
• Alanya : There are two main options; the area near the harbour and the area close to Kleopatra beach.
• Kas town centre
• Side Old town

Best restaurants in Antalya

• Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant: Located in the Old Town (Kaleiçi), Seraser offers high-end Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting.
• 7 Mehmet: Chic restaurant with nice sea views close to Konyaalti Beach
• Old Town Restaurant : Good Turkish food on ‘Umbrella Street’ in Antalya Old town
• Castle Cafe & Restaurant : Nice setting with sunset views by the Hidirlik Tower in Antalya
• Arma Restaurant : Nice seafood restaurant by the sea in Antalya’s old harbour.
• Aynali : Another decent seafood restaurant at Antalya’s old harbour.
• BörekçiTevfik : This small spot in Antalya specialises in the traditional börek
• Toprakana Gözleme : Great little place in Antalya to try Gozleme
• Kale Panorama Restoran : A good restaurant near Alanya Castle with amazing views of the coast.
• Elite Restoran : Very popular restaurant by Kleopatra Beach in Alanya with great service plus a dance show.
• Mini Mutfak : Cheap and tasty Turkish homestyle cooking in Alanya city centre
• Magellan Coffee Bistro : A great cafe for breakfast and lunch by Kleopatra Beach in Alanya
• Ravza Restaurant: Good restaurant in Alanya offering authentic homestyle turkish food.
• Elia Restaurant & Lounge : A good seafood restaurant by the harbour in Side.
• Kamer Ocakbaşı Restaurant : Great views, excellent service and lovely food in Side
• Carpe Diem Restaurant & Lounge : A stylish restaurant with sea views in Side
• Saide Cafe & Restaurant : Decent turkish restaurant in Adrassan
• Ehlikeyf Meyhanesi Kaş : Attentive service and good place for fresh fish in Kas.
• Sempati Türk Mutfağı : One of the best restaurants in Kas to try typical turkish food.
• Butka: Cheap homemade turkish food in Kas. The butka dessert is delicious
• Öz Nazilli Restoran : Classic turkish dishes with cheaper prices than the rest of Kas city centre
• Tatlı Dükkanı : A good dessert shop in Kas

You can check the location of these restaurants on this map .

Local Cuisine

Antalya offers a rich and diverse culinary scene, with a variety of delicious dishes to try. Here are some of the must-try foods in Antalya:

• Kebabs: Kebab is probably the most famous Turkish dish that comes in various forms, such as Adana kebab (spicy minced meat kebab), shish kebab (marinated and skewered pieces of meat), döner kebab (thinly sliced, seasoned meat, typically lamb or beef, cooked on a vertical rotisserie and often served wrapped in a flatbread or pita-durum) or Iskender kebab (slices of doner kebab meat served on top of pieces of pita bread topped with a rich tomato sauce and yoghurt)
• Pide: Pide is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with a variety of ingredients, such as minced meat, cheese, and vegetables.
• Simit : Simit is a popular Turkish street food and snack that’s sometimes referred to as “Turkish bagel” due to its shape and texture. It is a type of circular bread with a golden-brown, sesame seed-coated crust and a soft, fluffy interior.
• Manti: Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat and usually topped with yoghurt and garlic sauce.
• Lahmacun: Often referred to as “Turkish pizza, lahmacun is a thin, round flatbread topped with a mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, often served with lemon and parsley.
• Kofte: Spiced meatballs, often made from ground lamb or beef, usually grilled but sometimes boiled and served in a variety of ways.
• Menemen: A Turkish breakfast dish made with eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, and spices.
• Gözleme: Thin, savoury pancakes stuffed with ingredients like spinach, cheese, or minced meat, then cooked on a griddle.
• Dolma : Stuffed grape leaves with a mixture of rice or bulgur, ground meat, herbs, and spices rolled into small parcels
• Kokoreç: Chopped meat pieces usually served in a sandwich mixed with onions. Meat is made of lamb intestines and spit-roasted.
• Börek: Borek is a filled pastry made of thin dough and baked in the oven. Filling is usually minced meat, cheese or spinach
• Güveç: A traditional casserole dish, made of chicken, meat, veg or shrimps, slow-cooked with tomatoes, peppers, onions and spices in special clay pots.
• Meze: A selection of small dishes served as appetizers, including items like hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and more.
• Imam Bayıldı : A famous vegetarian dish of stuffed aubergines with tomato and onion mixture cooked in the oven.
• Balık Ekmek: This is a simple and tasty street food consisting of a grilled fish fillet served in a bread roll with vegetables.
• Fresh Seafood: Antalya’s coastal location means there’s an abundance of fresh seafood, like grilled fish, calamari, octopus and other seafood dishes.
• Baklava: The most famous Turkish dessert. A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
• Revani: A semolina cake soaked in a simple syrup, flavoured with lemon or orange zest, and sometimes garnished with coconut or ground pistachios.
• Tavuk Göğsü: A unique dessert made from chicken breast, milk, sugar, and rice flour, creating a creamy and sweet pudding.
• Kadayif: A dessert made from fine strands of pastry (kadayif phyllo) soaked in syrup and often layered with nuts or clotted cream.
• Kunefe: A dessert made with kadaif phyllo layered with sweet, melted cheese, then baked and soaked in sugar syrup. It’s often topped with crushed pistachios.
• Turkish Delight (Lokum): Soft, chewy confections made from starch and sugar, often flavoured with ingredients like rosewater, pistachios, or pomegranate. Rolled Turkish delights are also popular.
• Aşure: Also known as “Noah’s Pudding,” it’s a sweet dessert made with a mix of grains, dried fruits, nuts, and sugar.
• Dondurma : Traditional Turkish ice cream, known for its chewy and elastic texture. It is made with mastic (resin from the mastic tree) and salep (flour made from the root of a wild orchid).
• Sutlac: Creamy rice pudding flavoured with a hint of cinnamon and often served with a caramelized sugar topping.
• Kazandibi: Similar to Sutlac but with a caramelized bottom layer that gives it a unique taste and texture.
• Turkish Tea (Çay): Turkish tea is a national drink and is often served in small glasses. It’s a popular choice for any meal and any time of day.
• Turkish Coffee (Türk Kahvesi): Traditional Turkish coffee, made from finely ground coffee boiled with water over a low flame and served in a small cup. It is strong and aromatic, often served with a glass of water.
• Ayran: Ayran is a refreshing and traditional Turkish yoghurt drink, made by mixing yoghurt, water, and a pinch of salt.
• Rakı: A traditional strong alcoholic drink, rakı is an anise-flavoured spirit that is often enjoyed with meze (appetizers) during social gatherings.
• Meyve Suyu: Freshly squeezed fruit juices, such as orange, pomegranate, and watermelon, are widely available in Antalya and are delicious and refreshing.
• Local Wines: Antalya is known for its wine production, and you can find a variety of local wines from the region’s vineyards.
• Local Beers: Enjoy Turkish and local beers, like Efes or Bomonti, which are widely available in restaurants and bars.

THINGS TO DO IN ANTALYA

BEST attractions and places to visit

Antalya offers a diverse range of attractions, from historical sites to natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Antalya:

• Kaleiçi (Old Town): Explore the historic heart of Antalya with its charming streets, ancient architecture, and historical sites like Hadrian’s Gate and the Hıdırlık Tower.
• Side: Visit the ancient city of Side, known for its well-preserved theatre and temple of Apollo, as well as beautiful beaches.
• Antalya Archaeological Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts from ancient Anatolia, including Roman sculptures and sarcophagi, most of them from the ancient city of Perge.
• Perge: Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Perge, known for its Roman ruins, including a stadium, baths, and an impressive theatre.
• Aspendos: Visit the ancient city of Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world, as well as a well-preserved aqueduct.
• Alanya Castle: Explore the historic Alanya Castle with its impressive walls and towers, offering panoramic views of the coast
• Termessos: Hike to the mountaintop ancient city of Termessos, known for its stunning ruins and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Phaselis: Discover the historical ruins of Phaselis, an ancient Lycian city by the sea with well-preserved streets, an amphitheatre, and aqueducts.
• Olympos: Explore the ancient city of Olympos, known for its ruins and the opportunity to see the Chimera flames on Mount Olympos.
• Düden Waterfalls: Enjoy the beautiful Düden Waterfalls, easily accessible from Antalya or on a boat tour.
• Kursunlu Waterfall: This tranquil waterfall is set in a nature park with walking paths.
• Beaches: Relax at one of the beautiful beaches of Antalya, including Konyaaltı Beach, Lara Beach, or the sandy shores of Kleopatra Beach in Alanya.
• Taurus Mountains: Explore the natural beauty of the Taurus Mountains with activities like hiking, mountain biking, and jeep safaris.
• Saklıkent Gorge: Saklıkent Gorge offers the opportunity to hike through a deep canyon.
• Kekova: Take a boat trip to Kekova Island to see the sunken city ruins and the picturesque village of Kaleköy.

BEST TOWNS & VILLAGES

• Antalya : Antalya has a beautiful old town with well-preserved Ottoman architecture, narrow streets, and a nice old harbour.
• Side: This picturesque coastal town is known for its ancient ruins, including a well-preserved theatre, temples, and two beautiful beaches.
• Alanya: A vibrant town with a historic castle, a lively harbour, and a long sandy beach. It’s a popular destination for tourists.
• Kas: A charming seaside town with a laid-back atmosphere, colourful streets, and access to diving and boat trips to nearby islands.
• Kalkan: A beautiful coastal village famous for its upscale restaurants, boutique shops, and nice sea views.
• Çıralı and Olympos: These two adjoining coastal villages offer a more tranquil experience and access to the Olympos Ruins and the Chimaera flames on Mount Olympos.
• Üçağız: A coastal village on the Lycian coast that provides boat tours to Kalekoy, the ancient city of Simena, and Kekova island
• Belek: A coastal town known for its golf resorts and high-end beachfront hotels.

BEST BEACHES

• Patara Beach : Patara Beach is a pristine, 18-kilometer-long stretch of sand. It’s a protected area due to the sea turtles and is known for its natural beauty.
• Kleopatra Beach : Located in Alanya, Kleopatra Beach is famous for its fine golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s named after the legendary queen Cleopatra.
• Side Beach : A beautiful sandy and shallow beach located at the north side of Side town.
• Cirali/Olympos Beach : Olympos Beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to the ancient city of Olympos. Çıralı Beach is the continuation of Olympos Beach known for its natural beauty, and it’s also a nesting ground for sea turtles.
• Konyaalti Beach : Located very close to Antalya, this beach is known for its pebble shoreline and the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists and offers various facilities and activities.
• Kaputas Beach : Situated between Kas and Kalkan, Kaputaş Beach is known for its turquoise waters and the stunning gorge leading to the beach.
• Suluada Beaches : This island has some amazing white beaches. It can be reached by organised boat tours from Adrasan.
• Adrasan Sahil : A quiet and unspoiled beach with sand, located in a beautiful bay in Adrasan.
• Belek Beach
• Lara Beach : Known for its long stretch of golden sands, Lara Beach is home to many upscale all-inclusive resorts. It’s a beautiful and well-maintained beach with clear waters.
• Kemer Beach
• Camyuva Beach
• Tekirova Beach
• Phaselis Beach: Located in the ancient city of Phaselis, this beach is surrounded by historic ruins. It’s a unique destination for history and beach lovers.

ANTALYA TOURIST MAP

You can click on the map below for the location of the best sights and places to visit in the Antalya Region of Turkey including best beaches, hotels, restaurants and viewpoints.

ANTALYA ITINERARY

It is worth staying in the Antalya region for at least one week , but ideally, you will need two weeks or more if you want to explore the whole region at a relaxed pace.

Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary for exploring Antalya and its surrounding areas.

Day 1: Antalya City

• Explore the historic Kaleiçi (Old Town). Visit landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate & Hıdırlık Tower,
• Take the tram to visit the Antalya Archaeological Museum.
• Descend to Konyaalti Beach for a swim
• Visit the Duden Waterfalls by bus or car or you can take a boat tour from the harbour.
• Stroll along the Antalya old harbour and dine at a waterfront restaurant
• Overnight Antalya

Day 2: Perge, Aspendos & Side

• Visit the ancient city of Perge with its well-preserved ruins.
• Explore the ancient theatre in Aspendos, one of the best-preserved Roman theatres.
• Optional visit to Kursunlu Waterfall
• Head east along the coast to the ancient town of Side, known for its Roman ruins.
• Explore the town and visit the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theatre.
• Swim at Side beach and enjoy the sunset
• Overnight in Side.

Day 3: Side to Alanya

• Early visit to the Green Canyon for a cruise
• Go to Alanya for a walk along the harbour enjoying the views
• Explore Alanya Castle, a magnificent fortress offering panoramic views.
• Enjoy a swim at Cleopatra Beach.
• Overnight in Alanya.

Day 4: Alanya to Olympos

• First stop for a swim on Kemer beach
• Visit Phaselis, an ancient Lycian city with well-preserved ruins by the sea.
• Explore the Olympos archaeological site and finish with a swim at the beautiful beach.
• Travel to the relaxed resort of Adrasan.
• Overnight in Adrasan

Day 5: Adrasan to Kas

• Visit Myra Ancient City
• Drive to the coastal village of Üçağız
• Take one of the boat tours to Kekova Island or visit Simena Castle by car for magnificent views.
• Walk along the harbour of Kaleköy
• Drive to Kas and stop at the scenic viewpoint for a magnificent panorama of the bay, also great to see the sunset
• Overnight in Kas

Day 6: Kas & Around

• Explore Kas town
• Enjoy a swim at Kaputas beach
• Visit Kalkan town
• Explore Patara Ancient city and relax at the amazing beach
• Overnight Kas

Day 7: Back to Antalya

• Visit the Ancient city of Xanthos
• Explore Saklikent Gorge
• Drive back to Antalya

PHOTOGRAPHY

You can check the best photographs here .

Here is a list of the best viewpoint locations in the Antalya Region, where you enjoy great views .

• Alanya Castle Panorama Observation Deck
• Simena Castle
• Kas Panorama
• Konyaalti Beach Panoramic View
• Alanya Castle
• Kaleici Panoramic Elevator
• Kaputas Viewpoint
• Kecili Park viewing platform
• Ancient Patara (Kursulu Hill)
• Aspendos Theatre Viewpoint
• Kastellorizo Old Fortress
• Kas Town Viewpoint
• Karaaalioğlu Parkı Batı Seyir Terası
• Liman Viewpoint
• Port Viewpoint
• Path to St George
• Kalkan Viewpoint
• Simena Viewpoint
• Ucagiz Viewpoint

You can check these viewpoints’ locations and the best photo spots on this map .

ANTALYA ACTIVITIES

• Hike in the Taurus Mountains: Discover the natural beauty of the Taurus Mountains with hiking and trekking adventures. The Lycian Way is a famous long-distance trail in the region. One recommended hike is up to the ruins of the ancient city of Termessos.
• Water Sports: Try scuba diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, parasailing, and other water sports along the coastline.
• Boat Tours: Take boat tours to explore hidden coves, caves, and islands. Many tours offer swimming, snorkelling, and relaxation opportunities. Most of the cities along the coast offer boat tours (Antalya, Side and Alanya). A great option is to take a boat trip to Suluada island.
• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding from the mountains to the coast, offering breathtaking aerial views of Antalya.
• Cycling and Mountain Biking: Enjoy cycling adventures in the mountains or explore the city’s cycling paths and scenic routes.
• White-Water Rafting: Take a white-water rafting excursion on the Köprülü River for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
• Go on a jeep safari:  Explore the Taurus Mountains and discover hidden villages, waterfalls, and historical sites on a fun and adventurous jeep safari .
• Golf: If you’re a golfer, Antalya has several golf courses and resorts, like Belek, where you can enjoy a round of golf.
• Traditional Turkish Baths: Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Turkish bath and spa experience, including massages and steam baths.
• Shopping: Explore local markets and bazaars to shop for souvenirs, textiles, spices, and more.

ANTALYA TOURS

Ancient cities tour.

Perge, Aspendos, Side and Waterfall excursion is an 8hr full-day tour of the ancient city of Perge (2h), the Aspendos ancient theatre (1h), Side Ancient City and the Manavgat Waterfalls (30min). Price: €64.

Antalya City Tour

Antalya Full Day City Tour is a 7-8h tour that includes a walking tour of the streets of Antalya’s old town with a local guide, a visit to the Teleferik (extra fee) and Lower Duden waterfalls (by coach) and an 1h boat tour from the old harbour. Price: €29.

There are also free walking tours with GuruWalk . These tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guide at the end of the tour the amount that he considers appropriate.

Suluada Island Tour

Suluada Boat Tour is a full-day (10-11h) excursion to the small island of Suluada with its amazing water. It includes a 2h coach transfer to Adrassan, a 1h boat ride to the island and 4h free time to enjoy the beaches of the island with its turquoise waters and white sands. The tour includes lunch on the boat and visits to some other coves by the coast. The boat trips are very popular and it can get very crowded on the island. Price: €29.

Pamukkale Hierapolis Visit

Pamukkale Hierapolis and Cleopatra’s Pool Tour is a 12h tour that includes:

• Hierapolis and Pamukkale visit with a small group and a guide
• Visit to the mineral hot springs at Cleopatra’s Pool
• The tour includes transfer, a buffet lunch and entry to Pamukkale and Hierapolis

Price: €67.

The Land of Legends Theme Park  

The Land of Legends Theme Park is a large outdoor theme park that opened in 2016 consisting of a wide variety of water slides and roller coasters and a very nice shopping mall. It is good fun for all the family with some great shows, e.g. the dolphin show is amazing. There are several good dining options and cafes. Entry tickets are pricey so might be better to use this tour .

More information about excursions & tours in Antalya can be found here .

You can also search for activities hosted by locals on Airbnb experiences .

WHAT TO BUY

Antalya offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that you can buy. Here are some popular items to consider purchasing in Antalya:

• Nazar Boncuk (Evil Eye):  This amulet is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. You’ll find them in all shapes and sizes, from keychains to magnets to wall hangings.
• Tavla (Backgammon Board):  A popular game in Turkey, tavla boards are often beautifully hand-crafted with inlaid mother-of-pearl or wood
• Turkish Carpets and Rugs
• Spices and Turkish Delights
• Olive Oil and Olives
• Traditional Turkish Tea Sets including cups, and glasses in various designs.
• Handmade Soaps and Bath Products made from ingredients like olive oil, rose and herbs.
• Ceramics and Pottery in various designs and patterns.
• Copper and Brass Items , such as coffee pots, trays, and decorative pieces.
• Jewellery in intricate designs.
• Traditional Clothing and Textiles , like fez hats, scarves, and dresses. You can also find embroidered textiles and fabrics.
• Scented Oils and Perfumes in various fragrances and in beautiful bottles.
• Local Wines and Spirits , including raki and various fruit liquors.
• Turkish Coffee and Accessories , like coffee pots and cups.
• Local Handcrafts , like wooden boxes and mosaic lamps
• Kilim Bags and Accessories
• Nargile (Water Pipe)
• Pistachios:  Turkish pistachios are some of the best in the world. Buy them raw, salted, or roasted.

Two of the biggest malls and good places to shop in Antalya are TerraCity and the Agora Shopping Centre close to the airport.

Bargaining is common in many markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices when shopping in local bazaars.

VIRTUAL TOUR OF ANTALYA

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Antalya 🙂

FURTHER READING

Some websites for more information about Antalya :

• Antalya Tourist Information : A great independent travel portal about Antalya written by friends of the region and influencers,
• iAntalya: This is another good website with lots of information about the Antalya Region.
• GoTurkiye : The official tourist website of Turkey including information about Antalya.

Some good travel guides to buy before your visit Antalya :

• DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Turkey : A great guide about Turkey that includes information about Antalya and the Med Coast.
• The Rough Guide to Turkey : Another good guide for Turkey that includes information about Antalya Region.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Flights : I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Google Flights is another very good search engine.
• Accommodation : I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. Airbnb   is a great alternative for homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners.  HotelsCombined  is one of the best search engines to check deals from different websites.
• Car Rental : I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options. Discover Cars  is also a good and easy-to-use website with great prices.
• Public Transport : Rome2Rio is a good website for checking prices & times on train and bus travel.
• Day Trips & Tours : Viator provides the most comprehensive list of day trips and you can book directly with them. GetYourGuide  is also a great website to search for tours & activities to do. Airbnb Experiences is also a good place to find activities hosted by locals.
• Travel Insurance : SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

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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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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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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.

Antalya: Top 19 Things To Do (Travel Guide)

• Last updated: January 31, 2024

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About Antalya

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

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Top things to do in Antalya

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

1. See Lower Duden waterfall (Karpuzkaldıran)

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

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

Location of Duden Waterfalls

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

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

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

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

RECOMMENDED TOURS

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

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

2. Explore Kaleici, the Old Town of Antalya

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

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

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

Hidirlik Tower

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

Yivli Minare Mosque

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

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

Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower)

Hadrian’s Gate

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

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Karaalioglu Park

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

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

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

3. Enjoy the beaches of Antalya

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

The most famous beaches in Antalya are:

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

RECOMMENDED

4. Explore the waterfalls

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

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

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

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

5. Day trip to Pamukkale and Hieropolis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Day trip to Salda Lake

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

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

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

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

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

7. Day trip to Kas

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

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

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

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

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

8. Day trip to Aspendos

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

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

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

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

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

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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. 😉

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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.

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Antalya Travel Guide & Top Things To Do

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

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

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

Where Is Antalya and Why Visit?

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

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

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

The Best Time To Visit Antalya

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

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

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

Spring & Fall

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

The Best Things To Do In Antalya

1. relax on a beach.

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

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

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

2. Visit Antalya Museum

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

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

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

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

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

3. Go horseback riding

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

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

4. Stroll the streets of the old town, Kaleiçi  

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

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

5. See Yivli Minare

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

6. Visit Hadrian’s Gate

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

7. Hıdırlık at Karaalioglu Park

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

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

8. Relax at Duden Waterfalls

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

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

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

9. Go scuba diving

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

Here are some highly rated, guided scuba diving tours.

10. Take a boat trip from the harbour

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

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

For more information on sailing trips along the Turkish Riviera, take a look at this guide .

11. Ride the Tunektepe Teleferik

The Tunektepe teleferik is a cable car that takes you to the top of Tunektepe Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline. At the top of the hill, you can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or take a walk through the park.

The cable car ride takes around 10 minutes and is closed on Mondays. The following tours include a ride on the Tunektepe teleferik.

12. Go Golfing

Antalya is home to many golf courses, including the world-renowned Gloria Golf Resort and the Lykia Links course. If you are a golf enthusiast, consider spending a day on the greens during your visit. Click here for more information on golf courses in Antalya .

13. Visit the Antalya Aquarium and/or Zoo

The Antalya Aquarium and Zoo are popular choices for families. At the aquarium there are over 10,000 marine animals and over 50 different-themed tanks and at the zoo there are over 1000 animals the see.

Related Reading

• Top things to do in Kas
• A guide to visiting Oludeniz
• How to visit Butterfly Valley

10 Places To Visit Near Antalya

1. see kursunlu waterfalls.

Kursunlu Waterfalls are a beautiful natural attraction located just outside of Antalya. There are a series of waterfalls surrounded by lush green forest and are a great place to take a refreshing dip or enjoy a picnic. There are multiple trails to wander providing several viewpoints of the waterfalls, with the main waterfall being 18 metres high.

There is a small entrance fee to the area and a few park cafes serving snacks and refreshments.

2. Wander the sites at Side

Located 73km to the east of Antalya, you can find the Greco-Roman harbour city of Side. Side was one of the most important cities of Pamphylia, believed to have origins in the Bronze Age. Side has a number of ruins dotted around the resort city which is interspersed with houses, restaurants and shops.

Most of the locations are free to enter, with the exception of the large 2nd century amphitheatre. Take time to appreciate the well-preserved Hellenistic main gate as you enter the city, be sure to walk out to the peninsula to visit the Temple of Apollo and Athena and get lost amongst the temples and agora located next to the theatre.

3. Go rafting in Koprulu Canyon

Rafting in Koprulu Canyon is popular for adventure seekers visiting Antalya, Turkey. Located about an hour from the city, the canyon is home to the Kopru River, which offers a thrilling rafting experience for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

A beautiful canyon landscape surrounds the Kopru River with towering cliffs and dense forests. During a rafting trip, you can take in the stunning scenery and enjoy the thrill of the rapids. A variety of tour operators and rental companies offer rafting trips on the Kopru River, ranging from half-day excursions to multi-day adventures.

Rafting in Koprulu Canyon is a great way to experience the great outdoors and enjoy the adventure. It is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, and no previous rafting experience is required.

4. Marvel at the amphitheatre in Aspendos

Aspendos is an ancient city located about an hour from Antalya, known for its well-preserved amphitheater. The amphitheater isn’t as large as some other sites in Turkey, such as Ephesus, but it is unique because it’s fully intact. There is a modern stage at the front of the theatre with regular performances of plays and concerts.

However, there is more to see at this site than just the theatre, with remains of a basilica, nymphauem, acropolis and citadel to explore. There is also an aqueduct located a short drive from the main site. For a great view of the whole theatre, follow the footpath up to the hill just behind it.

You can join a guided tour from Antalya or take a taxi to reach Aspendos.

5. Explore Karain Cave

Karain Cave is a prehistoric cave located in the Taurus Mountains, about an hour from Antalya. It is known for its well-preserved artefacts from the Palaeolithic era, including tools and jewellery. You can join a guided tour from Antalya or take a taxi to reach the Cave.

6. Take an adventure to Thermessos

Thermessos is an ancient Turkish city located in the Taurus Mountains, about an hour from Antalya. It is known for its well-preserved ruins, including a theatre, an agora, and a necropolis. The theatre here lies partially in ruin however the location is incredible. It sits at the top of a hill overlooking the beautiful landscape of the Taurus Mountains.

A short hike up the hillside takes you to the main part of Thermessos, so an average level of fitness is required to reach this site. The paths around the site are signposted but they’re not always clear to follow. I used maps.me to help with navigation and had to help a few lost tourists along the way! 

7. Explore Myra and St Nicholas’ Church at Demre

Myra is an ancient Lycian site near the town of Demre. This archaeological site is famed for its incredible rock-cut tombs which are decorated by intricate carvings. There is also a large amphitheatre at Myra with intact entrance corridors.

In the town of Demre you can also visit the Church of St Nicholas aka Santa Claus. This 9th century church is a place of pilgrimage for many Christians and inside it’s possible to see the remains of wall paintings and mosaic tile floors.

Demre has a fabulous Friday market with the fresh local produce, so try and plan your visit on this day if you want to experience an authentic Turkish market.

Read more about visiting Demre in this guide.

The easiest way to get to Demre is through renting a car, however there are sailing trips from Antalya which visit Demre alongside a tour of the sunken city of Kekova Island.

8. Go skiing in the Taurus Mountains

The Taurus Mountains, located just outside of Antalya, offer a variety of winter sports activities, including skiing and snowboarding. There are several ski resorts in the area, allowing you to enjoy the slopes and the beautiful mountain scenery.

Saklikent Ski Resort is the closest to Antalya which is about 1 hour away, longer on weekends when the Turks head to the mountains for picnics. The resort only has two lifts so it’s quite limited and wasn’t blessed with great snow during our visit, however it is ideal for beginners. There is a shuttle service between Antalya and Saklikent if you don’t have access to a car.

However, it you are happy to drive further afield, Davraz Ski Resort near Isparta offers a larger ski area at a higher altitude, which is a better option for intermediate skiers and snowboarders.

Watch our visit to Saklikent Ski Resort in the video below.

9. Visit Perge

Perge is an ancient city located about an hour from Antalya, known for its well-preserved ruins from the Roman and Byzantine eras. It is home to several historical landmarks, including a theatre, an agora, and a stadium.  

10. The Land of Legends Theme Park

For the adrenaline junkies, no trip to Antalya would be complete without a visit to the Land of Legends Theme Park. In the adventure park there is a selection of roller coasters to get your heart pumping and in the aqua park, cool off with thrilling water slides and rapids.

How To Get To Antalya

Antalya International Airport is located 13km east of Antalya city centre. The airport offers direct flights to many major cities around the world and there is also the option of flying via Istanbul . The flight time from Istanbul to Antalya is around 90 minutes and flights run daily.

If you are travelling to Antalya from Cappadocia, there are direct flights from Kayseri (ASR)

The airport is 25km from the city centre and is serviced by two public buses (600 & 800). Taxis are also available from the airport (around $10) or you can pre-book an airport transfer through your hotel.

Alternatively you can take a bus to Antalya from Istanbul which takes around 13 hours or take the train which takes around 14 hours.

There is also a direct bus from Goreme ( Cappadocia ) as well as other major cities such Ankara, Izmir and Fethiye .

If you’re embarking on a road trip of Turkey you may prefer to rent a car and drive to Antalya. Localrent offer great deals on car rentals ensuring you get the best price. You can pick up a rental car from the major city airports.

Be sure to read this guide to driving in Turkey before you set off.

Getting Around Antalya

Antalya has excellent public transport so getting around the city via tram or bus is easy. If you plan to travel around Antalya on public transport, pick up an AntalyaKart card from the airport or from a kiosk in the city and enjoy discounted fares. The red trams are a fun way to see the city.

Most destinations outside of the city are serviced by dolmus (minibus) which leave from the city centre.

If you plan to travel to several destinations outside of the city and you don’t want to join a tour, then the best option is to rent a car. Car rental  in Turkey is straight forward and quite affordable.

Accommodation In Antalya

As a popular tourist destination in Turkey, there are no shortage of places to stay in Antalya from all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and apartments. You may want to choose your accommodation based on where your interests lie, for example are you mostly interested in relaxing on the beach or exploring the old town?

Konyaalti Beach

For a family friendly resort, located right on the beachfront, try the Sealife Family Resort Hotel . This resort has everything you possibly need on your Antalya vacation, including swimming pools, a spa, use of snorkelling equipment, kids club and a traditionally Turkish bath.

The Megasaray Westbeach is another hotel overlooking the Mediterranean sea. This elegant hotel is all inclusive with two swimming pools and a spa.

For those on a budget, check out Camp & Hostel Antalya which offers shared accommodation with a traveller-friendly vibe. 

The Atelya Art Hotel is a gorgeous, traditional ottoman house is located just 5 minutes from Hadrian’s Gate. The rooms feature traditional furniture and woven carpets. There is also a small outdoor pool in the courtyard.

If you’re looking for an apartment in the old town, then try the Mavi Avlu apartments . These apartments have all the amenities you would expect along with a patio overlooking the city.

Final Thoughts On This Antalya Travel Guide

Antalya is a beautiful and diverse city located in the southern region of Turkey. With its stunning Mediterranean beaches, rich history, and cultural attractions, Antalya offers something for everyone.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, learn about the city’s past, or experience the great outdoors, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. From visiting historical landmarks and museums to experiencing the local cuisine and culture, Antalya is one of the prettiest places in Turkey and an unforgettable travel experience.

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Louise is a Mountain Leader and Snowboard Instructor from South Wales. As a former Adventure Tour Leader she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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Antalya Travel Guide: Things to Do in Antalya, Turkey

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

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

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

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

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

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

Antalya City Guide: A Brief History Of Antalya, Turkey

Antalya is a city located on the Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and it has been inhabited by numerous civilizations throughout its history.

The region was first settled by the Lycians in the 2nd millennium BCE, and it later fell under the rule of the Persian Empire. The city then came under the control of the Macedonian Empire, and was eventually absorbed into the Roman Empire in the 1st century BCE. During the Byzantine era, Antalya became an important center for Christianity in the region.

In the 13th century, the city fell under the rule of the Seljuk Turks, who were succeeded by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Under Ottoman rule, Antalya became a center of trade and culture, and many impressive buildings and public works were constructed in the city.

In the early 20th century, Antalya was occupied by Italian forces during World War I, and it was later incorporated into the newly-established Republic of Turkey in the 1920s. Since then, the city has undergone significant development and modernization, while still preserving its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. Today, Antalya is one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations, renowned for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture.

Antalya Top Attractions and Best Places to Visit in Turkey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Cultural Attractions: Trip to Antalya, Turkey

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

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

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

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

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

Top 10 Things To Do in Antalya, Turkey For Visitors

Here are the top 10 things to do in Antalya:

• Visit the Old Town (Kaleici): Explore the narrow streets of the old town, admire the Ottoman-era architecture, and enjoy the charming cafes, bars, and restaurants.
• Explore the Antalya Museum: Discover the rich history and culture of Antalya and its surrounding regions through the museum’s impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, coins, and jewelry.
• Take a stroll through Duden Waterfalls: Admire the stunning views of the waterfalls as they cascade over cliffs and into the Mediterranean Sea.
• Sunbathe on Konyaalti Beach: Relax on the sandy beaches of Konyaalti, a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Visit the ancient city of Perge: Discover the ruins of Perge, an ancient city that dates back to the Hellenistic period and was once an important center for trade and commerce.
• Take a boat tour of the Mediterranean Sea: Enjoy the stunning coastline of Antalya from the water on a boat tour, which will take you to secluded beaches, hidden coves, and underwater caves.
• Discover the Termessos ruins: Hike through the Termessos ruins, an ancient city that was built on a steep hillside and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Go paragliding over the Taurus Mountains: Soar over the Taurus Mountains on a thrilling paragliding adventure and experience the beauty of Antalya from a unique perspective.
• Take a trip to the Saklikent Gorge: Explore the Saklikent Gorge, a stunning natural wonder that offers hiking, river rafting, and canyoning adventures.
• Visit the Antalya Aquarium: See a wide variety of marine life at the Antalya Aquarium, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish, and enjoy the interactive exhibits and displays.

What To Eat and Drink in Antalya, Turkey

Antalya, located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks:

• Piyaz: A popular Antalyan salad made with white beans, onions, tomatoes, parsley, and lemon juice.
• Adana kebab: Spicy, grilled minced lamb or beef, usually served with bulgur and roasted vegetables.
• Iskender kebab: A dish consisting of thinly sliced lamb or beef, served over pieces of pita bread and topped with tomato sauce and yogurt.
• Manti: Small dumplings filled with spiced lamb or beef and served with a garlic-yogurt sauce and melted butter.
• Lahmacun: A thin, crispy pizza-like dish topped with spiced minced lamb or beef, onions, and tomatoes.
• Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup.
• Künefe: A sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup and topped with pistachios.
• Turkish tea: A strong, black tea served in small glasses.
• Ayran: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, water, and salt.
• Raki: A traditional Turkish alcoholic drink made with anise, usually served with water and ice.

Top Restaurants In Antalya, Turkey

Here are some of the top restaurants to consider in Antalya, Turkey:

• Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant – Offering Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, this elegant restaurant is located in the historic Kaleici neighborhood and features stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Pio Gastro Bar & Bistro – Known for its creative cuisine and exceptional wine list, Pio is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Donerci Sahin Usta – If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying bite, this popular spot serves up delicious doner kebabs .
• Lara Balik Evi – This seafood restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers, with fresh catch of the day and an extensive menu of seafood dishes.
• Mevlana Pide – For a taste of traditional Turkish pide (a type of flatbread pizza), head to Mevlana Pide for its delicious variety of toppings.
• Doy Doy Restaurant – This family-owned restaurant is a local institution and serves up a range of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Kirmizi Restaurant – Known for its authentic Turkish cuisine and friendly service, Kirmizi is a great option for a casual meal with friends or family.
• Vanilla Lounge – This chic and stylish restaurant offers a fusion of Turkish and international cuisine, with a menu that includes everything from sushi to kebabs.
• Mado – A popular chain of cafes and restaurants in Turkey, Mado is known for its delicious ice cream and traditional Turkish desserts.
• Akdeniz Gurme – This modern restaurant serves up a range of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, with a focus on using local, seasonal ingredients. Don’t miss their grilled meats and fresh seafood dishes.

Tours For Visitors To Antalya, Turkey

Antalya is a city located on the Turkish Mediterranean coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and stunning natural scenery. Here are some of the top tours for visitors to Antalya:

• Antalya Old Town Walking Tour: Take a guided tour of Antalya’s charming Old Town and explore its winding streets, historic buildings, and lively markets.
• Perge, Aspendos, and Side Full-Day Tour: Visit some of the most impressive ancient sites near Antalya, including the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos and the seaside town of Side.
• Antalya City Sightseeing Tour: See the highlights of Antalya on this city sightseeing tour, which includes visits to landmarks like the Antalya Museum, the Düden Waterfalls, and the Hadrian’s Gate.
• Antalya Cable Car Ride: Take a scenic cable car ride up to the top of the Taurus Mountains and enjoy breathtaking views of Antalya and the surrounding area.
• Antalya Quad Bike Adventure: Get your adrenaline pumping with an exciting quad bike tour of Antalya’s beautiful countryside.
• Antalya Jeep Safari Tour: Experience the rugged beauty of Antalya’s Taurus Mountains on a thrilling jeep safari tour.
• Antalya Rafting Tour: Take on the rapids of the Köprülü Canyon with an exciting rafting tour of Antalya’s beautiful countryside.
• Antalya Diving Tour: Explore the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea with a guided diving tour of Antalya’s beautiful coastline.
• Antalya Paragliding Tour: Soar above Antalya’s beautiful coastline on a thrilling paragliding tour.
• Antalya Boat Tour: Relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of Antalya’s coastline with a leisurely boat tour.

Antalya Accommodations Guide: Hotels, Guesthouses and Hostels

Antalya, Turkey is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort, a budget-friendly hostel, or something in between, Antalya has a range of accommodations to choose from.

• Lara Beach: This area is home to some of Antalya’s most luxurious hotels, including the Delphin Imperial and the Limak Lara. Lara Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand, and the hotels in this area offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, spas, and restaurants.
• Kaleici: Kaleici is the historic center of Antalya, and it’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in exploring the city’s history. The area is full of narrow streets, ancient ruins, and Ottoman-era buildings. Some of the best hotels in this area include the Eski Masal Hotel and the Mediterra Art Hotel.
• Konyaalti Beach: Konyaalti Beach is a popular destination for families and those looking for a more laid-back beach experience. There are several hotels in the area, including the Akra Hotel and the Hotel Su.
• Belek: Belek is a great place to stay if you’re interested in golfing, as there are several world-class golf courses in the area. The area is also home to several luxury hotels, including the Rixos Premium Belek and the Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek.
• Side: Side is a charming town located about an hour from Antalya. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, as there are several nearby, including the Temple of Apollo and the Roman theater. Some of the best hotels in Side include the Barut Hemera and the Voyage Sorgun.
• Alanya: Alanya is a popular beach destination located about two hours from Antalya. The area is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views. Some of the best hotels in Alanya include the Eftalia Aqua Resort and the Long Beach Resort.
• Olympos: Olympos is a small village located about two hours from Antalya. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in hiking or exploring nature. There are several budget-friendly hotels and hostels in the area, including the Kadir’s Tree Houses and the Bayrams Tree Houses.
• Kas: Kas is a small town located about three hours from Antalya. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in diving or exploring ancient ruins. Some of the best hotels in Kas include the Hotel Club Barbarossa and the Saylam Suites.
• Cirali: Cirali is a small village located about two hours from Antalya. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in hiking or exploring nature. Some of the best hotels in Cirali include the Kimera Hotel and the Olympos Lodge.
• Demre: Demre is a small town located about two hours from Antalya. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, as it’s home to the ancient city of Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas. Some of the best hotels in Demre include the Eucalyptus Pension and the Simena Hotel.

Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey

Antalya is located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, making it an ideal destination for those who want to explore the region. Here are some popular day trips from Antalya:

• Perge: This ancient Roman city is located just 18 km east of Antalya and is home to impressive ruins, including a stadium, theater, and ancient baths.
• Aspendos: This ancient city is located 50 km east of Antalya and is home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. It’s still used for concerts and performances today.
• Termessos: This ancient city is located 30 km northwest of Antalya and is situated on a mountain. It’s one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey and offers stunning views.
• Kursunlu Waterfall: This waterfall is located 20 km northeast of Antalya and is a great place to escape the heat and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Duden Waterfalls: Located just a few kilometers from Antalya, these waterfalls are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
• Side: This charming coastal town is located 75 km east of Antalya and is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient ruins.
• Olympos: This ancient city is located 80 km southwest of Antalya and is situated in a stunning valley. It’s home to an impressive theater and numerous ancient ruins.
• Saklikent Gorge: This gorge is located 50 km west of Antalya and offers a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can walk through the gorge and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Myra: This ancient city is located 150 km east of Antalya and is home to some of the best-preserved Lycian rock-cut tombs in the region.
• Pamukkale: While it’s a bit further away (about a 3.5-hour drive), the stunning travertine terraces of Pamukkale are a must-see. The nearby ancient city of Hierapolis is also worth exploring.

These are just a few of the many day trips you can take from Antalya, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Antalya Transportation Guide

Antalya is a popular tourist destination in Turkey, so it has a well-developed transportation system. Here are some options for getting around Antalya:

• Bus: The public bus system in Antalya is extensive and affordable, with routes that cover the entire city and the surrounding areas.
• Tram: Antalya’s modern tram system runs from the city center to the suburbs, passing through popular tourist areas like Lara and Konyaalti.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Antalya, but make sure to agree on a price with the driver before getting in.
• Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas of Antalya. Many car rental companies have offices at Antalya airport.
• Bicycle: Biking is a great way to see Antalya and get some exercise. There are several bike rental companies in the city.
• Walking: Antalya’s old town, Kaleici, is best explored on foot. Many of the city’s historical sites and attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where To Visit After Your Trip To Antalya?

If you’re looking for other destinations to visit after your trip to Antalya, here are some suggestions:

• Istanbul : Turkey’s largest city and cultural capital, Istanbul is a must-visit destination with its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.
• Cappadocia: A surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, underground cities, and hot air balloons , Cappadocia is a popular destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers.
• Bodrum: A popular seaside town with a rich history and beautiful beaches, Bodrum is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
• Ephesus: One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, Ephesus is a must-see destination for history buffs.
• Pamukkale: Known for its white terraces of travertine, hot springs, and ancient ruins, Pamukkale is a unique and beautiful destination.
• Fethiye: A popular coastal town with a vibrant nightlife , Fethiye is a great place to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
• Konya: Home to the whirling dervishes and the tomb of Rumi, Konya is a spiritual center of Turkey and a fascinating destination for those interested in Sufism.
• Mardin: A hilltop city with stunning views of the surrounding plains, Mardin is known for its rich history and distinctive architecture.
• Safranbolu: A well-preserved Ottoman town with charming cobblestone streets and traditional houses, Safranbolu is a great place to experience Turkish culture.
• Mount Nemrut: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive statues and stunning views, Mount Nemrut is a popular destination for hikers and history buffs.
• Marrakech, Morocco: Explore the bustling souks, visit stunning palaces and mosques, and try traditional Moroccan cuisine in this vibrant city.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Visit this picturesque coastal town for its stunning old city, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
• Petra, Jordan: This ancient city carved into the rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in the world.
• Bled, Slovenia: With its crystal-clear lake, stunning castle, and majestic mountains, Bled is a picture-perfect destination for nature lovers.
• Mykonos, Greece: This iconic Greek island is famous for its pristine beaches, charming whitewashed buildings, and vibrant nightlife.
• Porto, Portugal: Visit this charming city for its historic architecture, delicious port wine, and stunning views of the Douro River.
• Salzburg, Austria: This charming Austrian city is famous for its baroque architecture, stunning scenery, and connection to Mozart.
• Edinburgh , Scotland: Visit this historic Scottish city for its stunning castle, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene.
• Tallinn, Estonia: This charming medieval city on the Baltic Sea is known for its stunning architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and rich cultural history.
• Fez, Morocco: This ancient Moroccan city is famous for its stunning architecture, traditional markets, and rich cultural heritage.

Antalya Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Antalya travel blog — the fullest antalya travel guide for first-timers.

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

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

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

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

Antalya travel blog: Overview of Antalya

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to come?

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

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

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

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

Antalya travel guide: How to get to Antalya?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Antalya archeology museum.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Antalya travel blog: Hadrian’s Gate

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

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

Greek theatre of Termessos

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

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

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

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

Pamukkale “Cotton Castle”

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

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

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

Roman Harbour

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

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

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

Antalya travel blog: Waterfalls

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

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

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

Kaleici Old Town

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

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

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

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

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

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

Karaalioglu Park

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

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

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

The Ancient City of Myra

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

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

Antalya Aquarium

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

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

Koprulu (Köprülü) Canyon National Park

Address: Bozyaka, 07550 Manavgat/Antalya, Turkey

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

Antalya blog: What and where to eat?

Below are the best dishes worth trying in Antalya

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

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

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

Locum and Baklava

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

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

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

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

Restaurants you should visit when coming to Antalya city

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

Gizli Bahçe

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

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

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

Antalya tourist guide: Blue Parrot

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

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

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

China Garden Restaurant & Bar

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

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

Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

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

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

Şemsiyeli Butik (Umbrella Street)

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

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

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

Sibel’s Four Seasons Cafe & Restaurant

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

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

Vanilla Lounge

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

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

Ship Inn Marina Restaurant&Bar

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

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

Antalya guide: Shopping in Antalya

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

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

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

Shemall Shopping Center

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

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

Antalya Migros Shopping Center

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

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

Markantalya Avm

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

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

Deepo Outlet Center

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

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

What to buy?

Gülizar carpet kilims gallery: turkish rugs.

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

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

Osmanli Sultan Carik: Handmade leather goods

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

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

Nil Tekel Shop (Pottery)

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

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

Silver Harmoni: Silver Jewelry

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

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

Where to stay?

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

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

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

Tips to visit Antalya

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

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

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

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

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

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Antalya, Turkey

About antalya turkey.

Antalya, Turkey is one of the most popular and frequented tourist destinations in the country, known for its natural beauty and historical riches, including blue-flagged beaches with clear waters. It is often considered a piece of paradise and a preferred holiday city. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sailing, sightseeing, mountain climbing, and family fun activities in Antalya.

For those planning a trip to Antalya, there are many resources available such as guides with detailed information about hotels, beaches, shops, archaeological sites, transportation, and more.

Top 8 Reasons to Visit Antalya

Antalya is a beautiful and charming city that has many reasons to make it on your tourist schedule, including:

Beautiful beaches: Antalya has some of the most stunning beaches in Turkey with crystal clear waters and soft sands.

Rich history: The city has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. There are many archaeological sites and historical landmarks to explore.

Delicious food: Antalya is known for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of traditional Turkish dishes and seafood.

Natural beauty: The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including stunning mountains and waterfalls.

Shopping: Antalya has a wide variety of shops, from local markets to high-end boutiques.

Nightlife: The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars and clubs that cater to all tastes.

Adventure activities: Antalya is a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking, rafting, and paragliding.

Welcoming locals: Antalya is known for its friendly and welcoming locals who are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

weather in Antalya

Antalya has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers, and mild and rainy winters. The best time to visit Antalya is from April to November, when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak tourist season is during the summer months of July and August when temperatures can reach up to 40°C. The winter months of December to February are generally mild with temperatures around 15°C, but it can also rain frequently during this time.

Where is Antalya ?

Antalya is situated on the flourishing southwestern coast of Anatolia, bordered by the Taurus Mountains. It is the largest city on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey with a metropolitan area of over two million people. The city is located at 36.91° N latitude and 30.70° E longitude, with an elevation of 61 meters above sea level. Antalya operates on the Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) time zone. To the west of the Antalya Gulf are the Bey Mountain group and Toros Mountains, which are located on the northeast side.

How to go to Antalya?

Antalya Airport , located 13 km (8 miles) east of the city center, is the most convenient airport for those traveling by plane. The airport is impressive and offers many shops and dining options. It is quite large, with ample seating areas for passengers waiting for their flights. Be sure to visit the Duty-Free Zones at the airport. Dozens of flights from various airports in Europe connect to Antalya Airport. For more information, you can call (+90242) 330 32 33, (+90242) 330 3600, or fax (+90242) 330 31 30. If you’re looking for a place to stay after a long flight or planning a return trip, browse nearby hotels.

Public buses from the airport: Antalya Airport offers transportation through tour operating companies, transfer companies, Havaş services, public buses, and taxis. Here’s some information about the city buses that go from the airport to the town center and bus terminal:

• Line 600 Airport-Bus Station: This service runs 24 hours a day and departs every thirty minutes. The journey from Antalya Airport to the city center takes approximately 40-45 minutes, while the trip to the bus station takes around 50-60 minutes.
• Line 800 Airport-Lara-Konyaaltı: This service runs between 06:15 and 22:15 and departs every two hours. The journey from Antalya Airport to the city center takes approximately 45-50 minutes, while the trip to the bus station takes around 55-60 minutes.

To use the public buses, you need to purchase a contactless payment card (Akbil) at the bus station, which costs 20 TL. So expect to pay 10 TL when you arrive at the station. To catch the public bus from the International Terminal, you need to go to the domestic terminal (300m away; turn right when you leave the International Terminal). There is a small blue “D” sign beside the taxi stand in front of the International Terminal. Note that taxi drivers may try to convince you that there are no buses leaving from there and offer you a ride.

A taxi ride between Antalya Airport and the city center takes around 20 minutes and costs about 15 USD (250 TL) during the day.

All of the local highways in Antalya are high-quality asphalt roads, and the main highways connect the city to various regions of Turkey. There are four different routes to reach Antalya by road:

• The main highway connects Antalya to Central Anatolia via Manavgat Konya.
• The highway that runs along the Mediterranean coast connects Antalya to Mersin harbor on the east coast.
• The tourist highway along the shoreline connects Antalya to the ancient regions of Lycia, Lonia, and Caria on the west coast.
• The main highway to the north connects Antalya to major cities such as Izmir, Ankara, and Istanbul.

In all of the tourism-focused areas in Antalya, many international and local car rental companies operate, and it is possible to rent a car from these agents. Tours are also organized to important tourism centers such as Ephesus, Cappadocia, Istanbul, and other places to introduce visitors to the Antalya region.

The closest harbors to Antalya that offer scheduled and charter voyages are Kusadasi and Izmir ports on the west coast, and Tasucu

Get around in Antlaya

Antalya, Turkey has a comprehensive public transportation network, which includes public buses, trams, mini-buses, taxis, and dolmush (small buses).

Antalya has an extensive public transportation system with numerous buses serving every destination in the city. The fares are affordable, and most buses provide air-conditioning and TV, even for short routes. The municipality operates 40 buses, while the rest of the fleet consists of 160 privately-owned buses. Additionally, Pamfilya Transportation Company runs 89 buses, and there are over 400 privately-owned minibuses operating in the city.

The buses in Antalya have a system of letters that precede the route numbers on the signs posted on the front of the buses. These letters indicate the destination of the bus. For example, A is for Aksu, a town located to the east of Antalya. C is for Çarşı, D is for Döşemealtı, F is for Tıp Fakültesi, K is for Konyaaltı Beach, which is to the west of the town center, L is for Lara Beach, located southeast of the town center, M is for Masadağı, T is for Terminal, U is for Uncalı, and V is for Varsak. So, if you see a bus with the destination number CK04, it means that the bus runs between Çarşı and Konyaaltı Beach.

“Dolmush” is a Turkish word that means “filled up.” It is a form of shared taxi or minibus that runs on a pre-determined route.

Most major public transportation stations have a dolmus station where you can take a seat in the dolmus that travels to your destination. Unlike buses, the dolmus does not wait until it fills up. Instead, it operates on a schedule. However, if the dolmus is empty and moves slowly in the hope of finding more passengers, it still needs to abide by its schedule and cannot wait for too long.

Antalya operates a two-line tram system which serves as a light rail system.

Line 1: Museum-City Center-Işıklar-Zerdalilik Nostalgic Tram Line 2: Fatih-Bus Station-City Center-Meydan Modern Tram

The trams are comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with WiFi, although a Turkish cellphone number is required to register for the WiFi.

Tickets cost 10.75TL and can be purchased at stores around the stations or at specific AntRay counters. Payment can also be made through the Antalya contactless public transport card (Akbil), which can be recharged at vending machines near the tram stops. The vending machines support different languages, including English. If you’re unsure, you can ask for assistance from the station guards.

Car rental start from here

Where to stay in antalya, hotels in antalya, 5 star hotels, 4 star hotels, 3 star hotels, 2 star hotels, 1 star hotels, places to visit in antalya, points of interest.

Antalya draws millions of people with its beautiful nature and historical riches for visiting this city. The combination of the sun, blue sea, the beautiful mountains that covered with trees cannot be seen effortlessly all collectively anywhere.

Here are the top Places to visit in Antalya :

1. Antalya Museum

2. the old roman harbour, 3.antalya aquarium, 5. duden waterfalls, 6. antalya bazaar.

When traveling to Antalya, leave plenty of time for sightseeing – you wouldn’t want to miss out on top attractions like Antalya Bazaar! This historic market area is known for its variable stuff, many shops, especially those selling jewelry.

We advise you to have a visit and enjoy your time there.

7. Antalya Saat Kulesi

8. hidirlik kulesi (the old stone tower).

Antalya’s Hıdırlık Kulesi is a landmark tower of tawny stone where Kaleiçi (Old Town) meets Karaalioğlu Park.

Its 14-meter-high tower, set in a small park, overlooks the cliffs of Antalya, and the Roman Harbor. Its establishment is said to date from the 1st or 2nd century AD The purpose of it is something of a mystery. The common belief is this tower was built as a tomb for a great leader. Bits of fresco within encouraging this conjecture. To the right and left of the portal are 12 axe-like motifs cut into the stone (six stones each side), which indicates the importance of the person entombed. This tower is located on a Hill end of Old Town. You came to a wonderful view of Mediterranean and Mountains. And you can reach there from the Harbor by 10 min walk.

9. Panoramic Elevator of Antalya

Shopping in antalya turkey, where to shop in antalya, food and drink in antalya turkey.

Food is incredibly cheap and delicious. Full meals will cost about 50 to 150 Turkish Lira, Service is amazing and only matched by its genuine friendliness. Antalya has excellent seafood restaurants as well. One thing to be aware of is to make sure the quoted price is the same as the price written on the menu.

Antalya has a lively nightlife in the summer. Many Options include bars with nargile (water pipe), games, live music and sitting around, discotheques with glamorous people, etc. On the Konyaalti’s Beach Park one club follows the next. Some of the traditional houses of Kaleiçi (Old City) has been turned into bars, in which a bottle of ‘Efes’ old Turkish beer costs around 15 or 20 TL depending on the place. The gardens shaded by trees offer a nice environment with a beer from the peak of summer heat. Also, Raki is a traditional alcoholic beverage that tastes like licorice. Make sure you do not drink it fast otherwise you will be out quickly.

“tourism police” section where travelers can report passport loss and thefts or any other criminal activity; they may have become victims of. They have staff multilingual in English, French, German, and Arabic. Tourism Police (Turizm Polisi), Kaleiçi Yat Limanı (at the marina below the old town), Tel: +90 242 243-10-61 (fax: +90 242 345-41-13)

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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.

Car rental agencies in Antalya

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

The Cost of Living in Antalya

Shopping streets.

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

Groceries and Other

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

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

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

Understand [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Onward transport:

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

By bus [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

By road [ edit ]

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

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

Get around [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

By tram [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

By taxi [ edit ]

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

Walk [ edit ]

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

See [ edit ]

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

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

Further out [ edit ]

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

Do [ edit ]

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

Buy [ edit ]

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

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ]

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

Mid-range [ edit ]

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

Splurge [ edit ]

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

Drink [ edit ]

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

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

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

Doluca Vineyard is next to the airport entrance.

Sleep [ edit ]

Old town [ edit ].

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

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

Konyaaltı [ edit ]

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

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

Lara [ edit ]

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

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

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

Stay safe [ edit ]

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

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

Connect [ edit ]

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

Go next [ edit ]

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

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Antalya, 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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Travel Guide

Plan Your Holiday in Antalya

This is our complete guide to planning your dream holiday in Antalya on the south east coast of Turkey.

Here you will find everything about planning your trip to Antalya, including flights, resort towns, things to do, package deals, and frequently asked questions. 

Antalya is Turkey's main destination for summer holidays between April and October. There are more than 300 days of sun each year, numerous beach resort towns with exceptional service, and unique sights dating back to antiquity. 

But, there is more to learn about Antalya. This province is also famous for golfing , water sports , and business events . 

Let us introduce you to Antalya. 

How to Visit Antalya

How to fly to antalya, guide to the antalya airport [ayt]: info on flights, transfers, hotels, and access, guide to the alanya-gazipasa airport [gzp]: flights, transfers, and access, hes code in turkey: guide for your trip to antalya, 4 ways to get a pcr test in antalya | online booking & prices, the covid-19 (coronavirus) rules in turkey, turkey’s entry regulations and visas (for tourists) – 2024.

There are two airports in the Antalya province. Antalya AYT is the main airport in the capital, Antalya, with flight connections to all major destinations in Europe, Russia, and the Middle East. So, flights to Antalya are available all year long. 

The second airport in the Antalya province is Alanya-Gazipasa GZP , 160 km east of Antalya. The airport is an option if you are going to any of the beach resort towns between Side and Alanya. 

Let Us Help You!

We provide exclusive hotels, flights, selected tours, and services for group travel in Antalya

Latest Updates on Antalya’s Covid-19 Rules

Turkey has welcomed travelers since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a unique safety concept at hotels, airports, and tourist facilities. 

Learn everything about the current Covid-19 rules in the Antalya province , including the rules for Safe Tourism Certified hotels in Turkey. 

Where Should I Stay?

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Recommended Hotels in Antalya

15 selected hotels in antalya with swim up pool rooms [2024], 15 amazing boutique hotels in kaleiçi, antalya – 2024, 15 best adults only hotels in antalya (over 16 or 18) – 2024, 15 amazing water park hotels in antalya – with huge slides, plan your ideal event.

Get in contact with us to plan exclusive custom made group travel and sophisticated events.

Things To Do in Antalya

100+ things to do in antalya, the best museums in the antalya province, visit ancient ruins in antalya, 25 best beaches in antalya [with map], top 10 best things to do in the antalya region, 16 things to do in antalya with children, 8 amazing islands in antalya you should see.

Antalya is the destination for beaches, summer, and sun in Turkey. 

But, there are so many more things to do in Antalya . Plan a visit to one of Antalya's famous ancient cities, like the Roman Theater of Aspendos , visit the attractions at The Land of Legends Theme Park in Belek, and experience whitewater rafting in Köprülü Canyon . 

It's up to you what you want to do. 

We are here to help you. 

Selected Tickets in Antalya

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Attractions in Antalya

26 top-rated attractions in antalya [with tickets], visit sandland: sand sculpture park in antalya, 10 unique waterfalls in antalya you should visit, guide to the olympos teleferik (cable car) in kemer: access and tips, the land of legends theme park in belek, canyons in antalya: everything you need to know, visit altınbeşik cave national park in antalya: location, entrance, and tips.

In Antalya, you can experience nature and unique attractions. 

Visit the top of Mount Olympos on the coast of Kemer and return to the shore with a tandem-paragliding flight. 

Dinopark in Göynük, Aktur Park in Antalya, the Antalya Aquarium , Sandland , and The Land of Legends are attractions for the whole family during your holiday in Antalya. 

You can also visit famous diving sites like the wrecks of sunken ships from the First Wold War, go canyoning, and visit wonders of nature, like the travertines in Pamukkale , in the neighboring province of Denizli. 

Don’t hesitate to contact us for custom tour planing and itinerary for your trip to Antalya. 

Popular Tours in Antalya

Plan your holidays in antalya, guide to the antalya aquarium: tickets, tours, and tips, guide to the ancient city of aspendos in antalya: history and tips, the complete guide to pamukkale [2023]: day trips, hotels, and tips, guide to the manavgat bazaar in antalya: access, reviews, and tips, guide to the ancient city of myra in antalya: history and tips, visit the church of st. nicholas: history, access & tips.

The sarcophagus of Nicholas of Myra , also known as the real person behind the stories of Santa Claus, is one of the most popular excursions in Antalya. There are many other famous places, too.

Rafting in Köprülü Canyon , a boat cruise along the shores of Antalya, and a visit to the bazaar are also favorites in Antalya. Visit our Ticket Shop to see all available options in Antalya. 

Food to Try in Antalya

20 turkish dishes to taste while traveling in turkey, the antalya guide for foodies, the 15 most amazing turkish desserts and sweets to try in turkey, local food in antalya: 22 dishes you should try.

Turkish cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world. 

It consists of recipes dating back thousands of years from the times of the Hittite empire, inherited flavors from the spice and silk roads, and ideas picked up from Greece, the Middle East, and Asia. 

Try a real Turkish style kebab, eat Baklava , and drink some of Turkey's national beverages: tea, called çay , Turkeys favorite alcohol,  rakı, and have a Turkish Coffee. 

Experiences in Antalya

Unique experiences in antalya, guide to the ancient city of termessos in antalya: history & tips, 5 best national parks in the antalya region, the ultimate antalya shopping guide, the antalya bazaar guide [date, location & tips], diving in antalya: the complete guide, lycian way: the complete hiking guide, let us help you, start planing your ideal trip.

We offer custom travel planing in Antalya with our expert travel agents.

We can arrange your bookings at high-class hotels, family holidays, and boutique hotels in Antalya's charming historical center, Kaleiçi. 

Feel free to reach out to us and see if we can meet your needs. 

Speak with one of our multilingual travel agents about custom travel planing in Turkey and benefits at carefully selected resorts in Antalya. 

Our travel agents, from agencies in Europe and Switzerland, offer expert advice about Antalya with a customer satisfaction guarantee. 

Feel free to speak with one of our agents for a free initial consultation and a custom quote for all-inclusive benefits at resorts in Antalya. 

We offer services for individual travelers, families, groups of friends, and custom needs, like business travel, weddings, and B2B events in Antalya. 

Personal Travel Planing

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May 9, 2023

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July 12, 2021

Full Retreat Organization Services in the Antalya Region

Talk with a travel agent: start planing your ideal holidays, faq (frequently asked questions).

Where is Antalya in Turkey?

Antalya is located on the Mediterranean coast in southwest Turkey. The city is bordered by the Taurus Mountains and is the largest Turkish city in the region. 

How to fly to Antalya?

Antalya AYT is the main airport in the capital, Antalya, with flight connections to all major destinations in Europe, Russia, and the Middle East. Flights to Antalya are available all year long.

The second airport in the Antalya province is Alanya-Gazipasa GZP, 160 km east of Antalya.

What is the best time to visit Antalya?

Antalya has a temperate Mediterranean climate, although the months of July and August can be very hot. Rainfall is rarely expected in the summer months.

Antalya is Turkey's main destination for summer holidays between April and October. 

Where to stay in Antalya?

There are about 2,800 hotels in the Antalya region. All classes are available, including high-class hotels, family holidays, boutique hotels, golf hotels, and guesthouses. For a stay directly in the city of Antalya, boutique hotels in Kaleiçi are very popular. For a beach holiday, choose one of the resorts on the coast. Those who prefer individual holidays will enjoy Olympos, Kaş, and the surrounding areas.

What can I do in Antalya?

Antalya is known for sun, sand, and sea. But, the city offers so much more. The province is also known for nightlife, golf, water sports, and business events, as well as its ancient ruins, boat tours, hiking trails, canyons, and mountains. You can even ski in Antalya.

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One of Turkey’s fastest-growing cities, ANTALYA is blessed with an ideal climate (excluding the searing heat of July and August) and a stunning setting atop a limestone plateau, with the formidable Beydağları looming to the west. In the heart of town, the pretty yacht harbour huddles below the Roman walls, while the crescent of Konyaaltı bay curves to the industrial harbour 10km west. Interest for tourists is largely confined to the relatively tiny and central old quarter within the Roman walls, known as the Kaleiçi (or “within the castle”). The city’s renowned Archeological Museum , however, west of the old town, is home to one of the finest collections in the country.

Brief history

Antalya to alanya, golden orange film festival, the parks of antalya, tailor-made travel itineraries for turkey, created by local experts.

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3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? Four days filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia make an unforgettable trip.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia

Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

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Magical Turkey

Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.

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Delightful Turkey

A fast-paced itinerary for those who want to discover as much as of Turkey as possible in under one week. Highlights include the Old Town of Istanbul, the valleys of Cappadocia, the birth of Sufism and the historical city of Ephesus.

22 days  / from 7879 USD

Cultural Turkish Odyssey

Embark on a 22-day journey through Turkey's rich tapestry of culture and history. From Istanbul's enchanting blend of Asia and Europe to ancient wonders, coastal gems, and the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, this tour immerses you in the treasures of Turkey.

10 days  / from 3543 USD

Discovering Turkey

Discover Turkey's treasures in 10 unforgettable days. Explore Istanbul's heritage, walk the ancient streets of Ephesus, and soak in the natural wonders of Pamukkale and Cappadocia. An epic journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes awaits.

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A week in Istanbul

Explore Istanbul's treasures in 6 captivating days. From historic landmarks to culinary delights and cultural experiences, immerse yourself in this enchanting city.

8 days  / from 1965 USD

Hiking in the valleys of Cappadocia

Embark on a 7-day Turkish odyssey filled with breathtaking hikes, cultural immersion, ancient marvels, and blissful relaxation. Your unforgettable adventure begins here!

9 days  / from 3630 USD

Turkish Treasures: A Journey through History, Culture, and Natural Wonders

Embark on a captivating journey through Turkey's treasures. Explore Istanbul, and ancient Ephesus, marvel at Pamukkale's surreal terraces, savor local delights, and unwind in Bodrum's vibrant nightlife. An unforgettable adventure awaits.

Antalya was founded as late as the second century BC by Attalus II of Pergamon, and named Attaleia in his honour. The Romans only consolidated their hold on the city and its hinterland during the imperial period, following successful campaigns against local pirates. Christianity and the Byzantines had a similarly slow start, though because of its strategic location and good anchorage Antalya was an important halt for the Crusaders. The Selçuks supplanted the Byzantines for good early in the thirteenth century, and to them are owed most of the medieval monuments visible today (albeit some built on Byzantine foundations). Ottoman Antalya figured little in world events until 1918, when the Italians made it the focus of their short-lived Turkish colony.

The stretch of coast between Antalya and Alanya is among the most developed in Turkey. With a four-lane highway running right behind many beaches, flanked by all-inclusive hotels and holiday-village complexes, it’s hard to imagine this was once ancient Pamphylia , a loose federation of Hellenistic cities established by incomers from northern Anatolia. Home to a busy international airport, the booming city of Antalya is the gateway to the region. Now a fully-fledged resort, it is worth visiting for its restored old town and marvellous archeological museum. The nearest (and most fascinating) ruined city is Termessos , perched on the saddle of Mount Solymos overlooking the Antalya gulf. East of Antalya, the surviving ruined cities of Pamphylia also rival the beaches as tourist attractions, with Perge and Aspendos the best preserved and most evocative sites. Further along the coast, Side is a major resort, though the striking ruins of its ancient city are fast being overshadowed by package tourist facilities. Alanya , the next sizeable centre, has also seen an explosion of hotel building and tourism-related commerce over the last few years, but has retained an attractive old quarter.

Antalya’s Altın Portakal or Golden Orange film festival runs for a week each autumn, usually at the start of October. It’s a major international film event, screening around 150 films throughout the week. Events culminate with an award ceremony at the Atatürk Kültür Merkezi, where golden statuettes of Venus carrying an orange are handed out. All week, directors, screenwriters and producers of Turkish and Eurasian cinema hold panel discussions and workshops, and parties take place across the city. All films are subtitled in English as well as in Turkish. For the full festival programme, visit w altinportakal.org.tr.

The best place to start exploring Antalya’s old town, Kaleiçi , is from the old harbour, where the once-crumbling quays have been rebuilt, gardens laid out and the harbour walls restored. The redeveloped old harbour , now home to day-trip boats, some charter gulets and a few fishing boats, is popular with tourists and locals alike, who frequent the quayside restaurants, cafés and clubs.

From the harbour, head uphill along Uzun Çarşi Sokak, past the eighteenth-century Mehmet Paşa Camii , to Kalekapısı (Castle Gate), the main entrance to the old town. Nearby the Saat Kulesi (Clock tower), a Selçuk tower with inset Roman column drums, is built into a section of the old walls. Kalekapısı is overlooked by the Yivli Minare or “Fluted Minaret”, erected during the thirteenth-century reign of the Selçuk sultan, Alâeddin Keykubad, and today something of a symbol of the city. Facing the Yivli Minare is an early, plain Selçuk han whose crumbling walls have been “restored”, a rather grand term for encasing the ruins in glass and filling the interior with souvenir shops. Above this area, but accessed from Cumhuriyet Caddesi, is an old baths, and a pyramidal mausoleum from 1377.

Bearing right onto Atatürk Caddesi, you’ll soon draw even with the triple-arched Hadrian’s Gate (Üç Kapılar), recalling a visit by that emperor in 130 AD. Hesapçı Sokak, the quietest entry to Kaleiçi, begins here, a cobbled street of restored Ottoman houses that now holds assorted pensions, trinket shops, restaurants and bars. About halfway along, the tower and attendant buildings known collectively as the Kesik Minare (Broken Minaret) form an architectural anomaly that’s done successive duty as temple, church and mosque.

The Mermerli and Karaalioğlu parks, just east of Kaleiçi , offer some well-needed shade and contain a number of pleasant tea gardens, with views stretching along the coast. In the northwestern corner, the Hıdırlık Kulesi , a round Roman tower, is the best place in town to watch the frequently spectacular sunsets over the snowcapped mountains and the gulf of Antalya.

The Hasan Subaşı Kültür Parkı , or the Atatürk Kültür Merkezi (AKM), 3km west of the centre, is a cliff-top park, theatre and exhibition centre and a favourite spot for joggers, roller-bladers and Sunday strollers, with tea gardens and children’s playgrounds on site.

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Welcome to Antalya - Turkey

Welcome to iAntalya, your holiday guide to Antalya, Turkey

Antalya , known as the  Pearl of the Mediterranean  and the  Turkish Riviera , is one of the most popular tourist destinations in both Turkey and Europe. Situated on the Mediterranean coast of southern Turkey, the Antalya region is home to great holiday resorts and towns that all offer a combination of sea, sun, beaches, relaxation, history, culture and nightlife. The region is very ideal for family or beach holidays as it has a year-round sunshine.

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Antalya region has one of the best attractions and sights for every holidaymaker searching for lovely beaches, natural wonders, ancient cities, archaeological sites, day trips, theme parks, and many more. You’ll find loads of joyful things to do in Antalya. Find all things to do, days out, attractions and sightseeing in Antalya, what’s on, festivals and events, tours, restaurants and hotels. Plan your holidays and trip to Antalya with our useful traveler information.

Saklikent Gorge: Activities, Access, Best Day Tours, Tips

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Are you visiting Antalya Region of Turkey for the first time? You’ll find out all the useful information and top insider tips and recommendations to plan your first trip well planned, easy, fun and safe. You can read our guides here the top attractions, sights, daily tours and excursions, boat trips, yacht & gulets, blue cruise, travel tips, and more things to do.

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Find out medical and health tourism services and treatments in Antalya Turkey, including best clinics and surgeons for hair transplant, plastic, cosmetic and aesthetic surgeries, body aesthetics, rhinoplasty, breast aesthetics, obesity treatment, laser eye LASIK surgery, medical check-ups, dental implants, veneers, and dental care, oncological treatments, and organ transplantation.

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