Antalya

Antalya is one of Turkey's biggest towns and is the capital of the region. With an unbeatable climate, a rich culture and history, many dining options and charming beach front, a trip to Antalya is hard to beat.

Top Attractions

There’s quite a line-up of attractions in Antalya, starting with the Old Town. You can take a leisurely stroll admiring the architecture and galleries before settling down for a nice meal in the main square. Make sure you check out the 18th-centure Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque before you leave!

You can also spend a day shopping and watching yachts bob on The Mediterranean at Antalya’s old harbor. For those interested in Turkish history, head to Antyala Museum or the area’s most distinctive landmark, Yivli Minare.

Beaches

In Antalya, you have several options when it comes to where you sunbathe and swim. Olympos beach is one of the most beautiful in the area. While it’s a pebbled beach, you’ll find locals hanging out here throughout the year.

Konyaalti is another popular beach in Antalya. Nestled in between mountains and cliffs, you’ll be surrounded by 360 degrees of stunning panoramic views. Because the beach seems to stretch on forever, you won’t have any trouble find a space to lay down your towel.

Both beaches have plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops nearby, meaning you won’t have to head back to your hotel for lunch.

Dining

There are plenty of excellent restaurants in Antalya serving fresh fish, succulent kebabs and a range of other local dishes. This really is a great choice for those who want a taste of the real Turkey. If you prefer a taste of home, there are plenty of restaurants offering international menus.

Of course, because you’re in Antalya, your surroundings are just as important as your meal. Restaurants offer a range of dining options, allowing tourists to eat on the beach, on rooftops with unrivaled views of the night sky, and even amongst the mountains.

Entertainment

The nightlife in Antalya is well and truly buzzing. You’ll find traditional English pubs, beachfront bars, cosmopolitan cocktail bars and Turkish taverns if you take a stroll around Old Town. There are also live music venues, nightclubs, and even a Roman theatre (Antalya State Opera and Ballet at Aspendos) for those who want dinner, drinks and a show.

Culture

There is a wealth of history to explore in and around Antalya. Historic sites include the ruins of the ancient cities of Pamphylia, Side, Perge and Aspendos. You’ll find an amphitheatre seating up to 15,000 people, an ancient walled city and stunning beachfronts.

The old quarter of Antalya retains an authentic charm and peaceful ambience. This is due – in part – to the narrow, traffic-free streets. It is also the ideal place to soak up the atmosphere around the charming harbor, where traditional wooden gulets leave from to explore the beautiful coast and its hidden caves.

Adventure and Sports

For the active, there are plenty of watersports available on the larger sandy beach of Lara just outside the town. If you don’t fancy watersports, there are almost limitless opportunities for walking, climbing and exploring caves in the surrounding mountains.

The region is one of incredible natural beauty, meaning you’ll likely stumble upon impressive waterfalls and unusual caves while hiking.

Getting around

There are city buses and trams that can take you from the airport to the city centre. Of course, you can also rent a car. If you opt out of car hire, there are always taxis available.