Antalya
Photo by Kutsal Amaç Kuruhan on Unsplash
Updated, Jun 2023
City
Antalya nestled along Turkey’s enchanting southwestern coastline, Antalya is a captivating city that seamlessly blends history, geography, and natural wonders. With roots dating back to ancient times, it showcases remnants of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations.
Its picturesque landscapes encompass golden beaches, majestic mountains, and the azure Mediterranean Sea. Travelers are drawn to Antalya for its archaeological treasures, the charming Old Town of Kaleiçi, and an abundance of outdoor pursuits.
Best time to visit Antalya is spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season for water sports, and winter is mild and rainy. Additionally, the months of April and May offer blooming flowers and lush greenery, while the autumn season offers vibrant foliage and a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. Plan your visit accordingly!
Getting In & Around
Antalya Airport:
12 km from city centre, address: Antalya Havalimanı 1. Dış Hatlar Terminali, 07230 Antalya, web: , phone: +90 444 7 423, email: [email protected], Light rail: Antry bus, prices change, Bus: bus number 600, 800, prices change, Taxi: 150-200 TL approx (prices change)
In Antalya, public transportation tickets are available in the form of an electronic card called Antalyakart. The card can be obtained for a small fee from designated sales points, including kiosks and vending machines.
The cost of a single journey using Antalyakart is significantly cheaper compared to purchasing individual tokens. Furthermore, there are options for daily or weekly passes that provide unlimited travel within a specified time frame.
The cost of a single journey using Antalyakart in Antalya is approximately 5 Turkish Lira (TRY).
See & Do
Old Town (Kaleici):
historic district with narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and restaurants. Free entry.
Antalya Museum:
exhibits of ancient artifacts, open daily 9 am-7 pm. Tickets: 30 TL for adults, free for children.
Duden Waterfalls: scenic waterfall, open daily 24/7. Free entry.
Hadrian’s Gate: ancient Roman arch, open daily 24/7. Free entry.
Antalya Aquarium: large aquarium with marine life, open daily 10 am-6 pm. Tickets: 130 TL for adults, 90 TL for children.
Aspendos Theater: ancient Roman theater, open daily 8 am-7 pm. Tickets: 60 TL for adults, free for children.
Konyaalti Beach: popular beach with clear waters and mountain views, open daily 24/7. Free entry.
Perge: ancient Roman city ruins, open daily 8 am-7 pm. Tickets: 60 TL for adults, free for children.
Karst Springs: natural springs and waterfalls, open daily 24/7. Free entry.
Tunektepe Cable Car: scenic cable car ride with views of the city and sea, open daily 10 am-6 pm. Tickets: 40 TL for adults, 20 TL for children.
Yivli Minaret Mosque:
historic mosque with a tall minaret, open daily for prayer times. Free entry.
Antalya Bazaar:
traditional Turkish market with various goods and souvenirs, open daily 9 am-9 pm. Free entry.
Termessos:
ancient city ruins on a mountaintop, open daily 8 am-5 pm. Tickets: 60 TL for adults, free for children.
Antalya Sandland:
large sand sculpture exhibition, open daily 9 am-7 pm. Tickets: 35 TL for adults, 25 TL for children.
Taurus Mountains:
mountain range with hiking trails and scenic views, open daily 24/7. Free entry.
Activities
Shop & Dine
Shopping:
Visitors will enjoy shopping in Antalya. From modern retail complexes like TerraCity and Deepo Outlet Centre to historic bazaars like the Kaleiçi Market, the city has a wide selection of possibilities.
Explore Kaleiçi’s small lanes, where you’ll find beautiful businesses selling one-of-a-kind handcrafted crafts, jewellery, and Turkish carpets. For consumers looking for international brands, larger malls provide a diverse assortment of apparel, electronics, and other items.
Dinning:
When it comes to dining, Antalya is a haven for food lovers. The city boasts a rich culinary scene with a variety of options to suit every taste. Indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine at local restaurants, where you can savor mouthwatering kebabs, mezes, and freshly caught seafood.
For a more international experience, explore the marina area or beachfront promenades, where you’ll find an array of restaurants offering Mediterranean, Italian, Asian, and other global flavors. Don’t forget to try traditional Turkish tea or coffee as a perfect way to end your dining experience in Antalya.
Nearby Places
Side: Nestled along the stunning Mediterranean coast, Side is a captivating getaway from Antalya. Step back in time as you explore its ancient ruins, including the well-preserved Roman amphitheater and Temple of Apollo. Bask in the sun on Side’s golden beaches and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere. To reach Side, take a leisurely drive or hop on a local bus for a scenic journey of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Kemer: Just a short distance from Antalya, Kemer offers a picturesque escape surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Lounge on its pristine beaches or take a dip in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Embark on a boat tour to explore the idyllic bays and coves dotting the coastline. A convenient bus or taxi ride of around 30 to 45 minutes will transport you to this coastal haven.
Termessos: Hidden amidst the rugged Taurus Mountains, Termessos is a mesmerizing ancient city that exudes a mystical aura. Hike through its scenic trails and discover impressive archaeological remains, including the well-preserved theater and city walls. To reach Termessos, embark on a thrilling journey combining a bus ride and a hike, immersing yourself in nature for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Olympos: Tucked away in a tranquil coastal village, Olympos is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of nature and history. Explore the ancient ruins of the city, shrouded in lush greenery, and soak up the sun on Olympos’ unspoiled beach. To reach Olympos, embark on a scenic bus journey of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, enjoying the captivating landscapes along the way.
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