ANTALYA TRAVEL GUIDE & THINGS TO DO

439

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.

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.

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

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.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Alanya: Alanya is another coastal city known for its great castle and vibrant nightlife. Most hotels are located close to Kleopatra Beach.
7. Kemer: Kemer offers a mix of beach resorts, nature activities in the Taurus Mountains, and a lively nightlife scene.
8. 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.
9. 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.

By Plane

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.

By Land

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.

By Car

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

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.

By Taxi

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.

By Train

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.

By Bike

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.

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:

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

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.

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:

1. 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.
2. Side: Visit the ancient city of Side, known for its well-preserved theatre and temple of Apollo, as well as beautiful beaches.
3. 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.
4. Perge: Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Perge, known for its Roman ruins, including a stadium, baths, and an impressive theatre.
5. 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.
6. Alanya Castle: Explore the historic Alanya Castle with its impressive walls and towers, offering panoramic views of the coast
7. Termessos: Hike to the mountaintop ancient city of Termessos, known for its stunning ruins and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
8. Phaselis: Discover the historical ruins of Phaselis, an ancient Lycian city by the sea with well-preserved streets, an amphitheatre, and aqueducts.
9. Olympos: Explore the ancient city of Olympos, known for its ruins and the opportunity to see the Chimera flames on Mount Olympos.
10. Düden Waterfalls: Enjoy the beautiful Düden Waterfalls, easily accessible from Antalya or on a boat tour.
11. Kursunlu Waterfall: This tranquil waterfall is set in a nature park with walking paths.
12. Beaches: Relax at one of the beautiful beaches of Antalya, including Konyaaltı Beach, Lara Beach, or the sandy shores of Kleopatra Beach in Alanya.
13. Taurus Mountains: Explore the natural beauty of the Taurus Mountains with activities like hiking, mountain biking, and jeep safaris.
14. Saklıkent Gorge: Saklıkent Gorge offers the opportunity to hike through a deep canyon.
15. Kekova: Take a boat trip to Kekova Island to see the sunken city ruins and the picturesque village of Kaleköy.

1. Antalya: Antalya has a beautiful old town with well-preserved Ottoman architecture, narrow streets, and a nice old harbour.
2. Side: This picturesque coastal town is known for its ancient ruins, including a well-preserved theatre, temples, and two beautiful beaches.
3. Alanya: A vibrant town with a historic castle, a lively harbour, and a long sandy beach. It’s a popular destination for tourists.
4. Kas: A charming seaside town with a laid-back atmosphere, colourful streets, and access to diving and boat trips to nearby islands.
5. Kalkan: A beautiful coastal village famous for its upscale restaurants, boutique shops, and nice sea views.
6. 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.
7. Üçağız: A coastal village on the Lycian coast that provides boat tours to Kalekoy, the ancient city of Simena, and Kekova island
8. Belek: A coastal town known for its golf resorts and high-end beachfront hotels.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Side Beach: A beautiful sandy and shallow beach located at the north side of Side town.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Kaputas Beach: Situated between Kas and Kalkan, Kaputaş Beach is known for its turquoise waters and the stunning gorge leading to the beach.
7. Suluada Beaches: This island has some amazing white beaches. It can be reached by organised boat tours from Adrasan.
8. Adrasan Sahil: A quiet and unspoiled beach with sand, located in a beautiful bay in Adrasan.
9. Belek Beach
10. 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.
11. Kemer Beach
12. Camyuva Beach
13. Tekirova Beach
14. 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.

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.

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
• Overnight Antalya

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.

1. Alanya Castle Panorama Observation Deck
2. Simena Castle
3. Kas Panorama
4. Konyaalti Beach Panoramic View
5. Alanya Castle
6. Kaleici Panoramic Elevator
7. Kaputas Viewpoint
8. Kecili Park viewing platform
9. Ancient Patara (Kursulu Hill)
10. Aspendos Theatre Viewpoint
11. Kastellorizo Old Fortress
12. Kas Town Viewpoint
13. Karaaalioğlu Parkı Batı Seyir Terası
14. Liman Viewpoint
15. Port Viewpoint
16. Path to St George
17. Kalkan Viewpoint
18. Simena Viewpoint
19. Ucagiz Viewpoint

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

1. 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.
2. Water Sports: Try scuba diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, parasailing, and other water sports along the coastline.
3. 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.
4. Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding from the mountains to the coast, offering breathtaking aerial views of Antalya.
5. Cycling and Mountain Biking: Enjoy cycling adventures in the mountains or explore the city’s cycling paths and scenic routes.
6. White-Water Rafting: Take a white-water rafting excursion on the Köprülü River for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
7. Go on a jeep safari: Explore the Taurus Mountains and discover hidden villages, waterfalls, and historical sites on a fun and adventurous jeep safari.
8. Golf: If you’re a golfer, Antalya has several golf courses and resorts, like Belek, where you can enjoy a round of golf.
9. Traditional Turkish Baths: Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Turkish bath and spa experience, including massages and steam baths.
10. Shopping: Explore local markets and bazaars to shop for souvenirs, textiles, spices, and more.

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.

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

1. 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.
2. Tavla (Backgammon Board): A popular game in Turkey, tavla boards are often beautifully hand-crafted with inlaid mother-of-pearl or wood
3. Turkish Carpets and Rugs
4. Spices and Turkish Delights
5. Olive Oil and Olives
6. Traditional Turkish Tea Sets including cups, and glasses in various designs.
7. Handmade Soaps and Bath Products made from ingredients like olive oil, rose and herbs.
8. Ceramics and Pottery in various designs and patterns.
9. Copper and Brass Items, such as coffee pots, trays, and decorative pieces.
10. Jewellery in intricate designs.
11. Traditional Clothing and Textiles, like fez hats, scarves, and dresses. You can also find embroidered textiles and fabrics.
12. Scented Oils and Perfumes in various fragrances and in beautiful bottles.
13. Local Wines and Spirits, including raki and various fruit liquors.
14. Turkish Coffee and Accessories, like coffee pots and cups.
15. Local Handcrafts, like wooden boxes and mosaic lamps
16. Kilim Bags and Accessories
17. Nargile (Water Pipe)
18. 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.

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

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.

• 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.

Sharing is caring!