Antalya

Introduction

Nestled along the southwest coast of Anatolia and framed by the towering Taurus Mountains, Antalya serves as a central hub within the Turkish Riviera. You will find this coastal destination recognized as a primary capital of tourism in Turkey.

Before you go

Prepare for a Mediterranean climate where summers are hot, sunny, and humid with virtually no rain. While the sea remains warm late into the autumn, you should pack for muggy nights that may require air conditioning. If you prefer milder conditions, April through May and October through November offer optimal sightseeing weather.

When exploring the region, keep in mind the following:

• Take standard precautions regarding traffic, sun safety, and the care of your valuables.
• While the city has its share of stray dogs and less desirable areas, you have little reason to enter down-at-heel districts.
• Be aware that while the coastal plain is often marketed as a single area, the eastern towns of Belek, Manavgat, Side, and Alanya are distinct locations.

Getting there

You can arrive in the city by plane at Antalya Airport, which serves international flights from across Europe, Russia, and the Middle East, as well as domestic flights from various Turkish cities. The airport features two terminals separated by a walkway or free shuttle; T1 handles domestic flights while T2 manages international ones. To navigate the city from the airport, you can use the AntRay Tram 1A to reach the old town or the main bus station, or take a bus. Route 600 serves both terminals and connects to the bus station, while Route 800 travels toward the east and west resort strips. If your destination is the Lara resort strip located to the east of the city near the airport, a taxi is your best option.

For those arriving by ground transport, the Antalya Terminal serves as a modern hub for long-distance coaches from cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. You can also reach the city via the D200 and D650 roads by car or bus. If you prefer coastal travel, frequent buses and dolmuşes run along the coast from regions such as Alanya and Manavgat. Additionally, the Port Akdeniz serves as the city's port and includes a cruise terminal.

Getting around

You can navigate the city using a variety of public transport options, including trams and buses. For convenience, you can pay for single rides on both the tram and bus with a contactless credit card. Alternatively, you can purchase an Antalyakart plastic card at kiosks near the tramway, the airport, or the bus terminal, or opt for disposable paper cards if you do not need to make transfers. The tram system features several lines: Line T1 connects northern areas like Fatih to the downtown and Meydan; Line T2 is a heritage line running near the coast through Old Town; and Line T3 serves the area north of the city, reaching the Akdeniz University Hospital.

Buses provide extensive coverage throughout the city, with many lines heading to the Otogar and specific routes connecting the beach and Düden falls. To track your journey, you can use mobile apps to check bus locations or arrival times. If you prefer a more direct route, taxis are available at stands across the city or via online booking. You may choose to negotiate with a taxi driver to act as a private guide for excursions to sites like Perge. When exploring the city center, you should travel on foot, as navigating this area by car or bicycle is tiresome.

Where to stay

You can find a variety of accommodations depending on the atmosphere you prefer. If you want to stay in the heart of the historic district, the Old Town and its southern extension offer many inexpensive pensions. These options provide a sense of place within the historic center, with some providing quiet nights and others offering atmospheric settings near local landmarks like the clocktower or Hadrian’s Gate.

For those seeking different coastal experiences, you can choose between several distinct areas:

• Konyaaltı: Located southwest of the center, this area features a long pebble beach. It offers a more modest alternative to the eastern coast.
• Lara: This extensive stretch of coastline is known for its sandy beaches and larger resorts. The area near Şirinyalı is bustling but has less beach access, while the section further east toward Aksu provides expansive facilities and family-oriented accommodations.

Food & drink

Explore a wide variety of culinary experiences across different neighborhoods. In the downtown streets near Muratpaşa Mosque, you can find budget-friendly options serving Antalya-style piyaz, kofte, and other authentic dishes. For those seeking traditional Turkish fare in an authentically shabby setting, head to Konyaalti, or visit local spots for raw meatballs known as çiğ köfte. If you prefer quick bites like shawarma and dürüm, the Kızılsaray area offers inexpensive choices, while the west end of the beach strip provides high-quality yet affordable meals.

For a mid-range experience, you can enjoy fresh fish in a friendly atmosphere or dine in a garden setting at long-established family-run restaurants. In the Kaleiçi district, find a relaxing spot for pizza and wine. If you are looking for specific cuisines, some locations near Hadrian's Gate offer many vegetarian and vegan options. For your drinks, the old town and city center feature various establishments catering to different tastes, while the Konyaalti beach strip and Lara town center host several bars and sports bars.

What to see and do

Begin your exploration in the old quarter, Kaleiçi, by passing through Hadrian's Gate. This historic gate served as a ceremonial entrance to the city and was preserved for centuries behind brick walls before being rediscovered in the 1950s. Nearby, you can visit the Fluted Minaret Mosque, an elegant six-domed structure from the Seljuk era, and explore the adjacent Dervish Lodge Museum, which once housed the "Whirling Dervishes." Other nearby landmarks include the 9th-century Clocktower, the 17th-century Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque, and the Karatay Medresi. Further along, the Sehzade Korkut Mosque stands on a site that originated as a Roman temple, while the compact Iskele Mosque sits near the harbour. For a broader look at local history, visit the Ethnographic Museum to see traditional arts and crafts or explore the Atatürk House Museum to see memorabilia from the leader's time in the city.

Experience the natural beauty of the region by visiting the Düden Lower Waterfalls, where the river plunges into the sea, or head further out to see the Düden Upper Waterfalls. You can also visit the sand sculpture park at Sandland or view the coastal scenery from the harbour piers. For those seeking historical ruins, the ancient city of Perge offers a colonnaded agora and theatre, while Aspendos features a well-preserved Graeco-Roman amphitheatre and an aqueduct. If you prefer nature, explore the woodland paths of Kurşunlu Waterfall or visit the King's Pool in a canyon. For a different perspective, travel to the hilltop of Tünek Tepe for views over the coast, or venture into the mountains to see the Zeytintaşı Cave.

• Antalya Museum: A large repository of items from the Mediterranean and Pamphylia regions.
• Antalya Aquarium: A large aquarium featuring display tanks and a viewing tunnel.
• Hıdırlık Tower: A Roman bastion and lighthouse with a square base and circular upper storey.
• Aksu Dolphinarium: A facility where you can see sea lions and dolphins.
• Sillyon: The ruins of a fortified city from the Byzantine era.

When to go

You can experience Antalya during its hot, dry summers when intense heat and virtually no rain define the season. While the sea warms beautifully for swimming, you should be prepared for extreme heat if you venture inland.

During the milder winter and early spring months, you can expect wet weather and cooler conditions. While frost may occur at night, snow is very rare, and heavy rain is common during this period.

Three days in Antalya

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of the Turkish Riviera. Explore the coastal atmosphere of Antalya as you settle into the local surroundings.

Day two, travel through the region to experience the landscapes near Belek and Manavgat. You can also explore the areas of Side and Alanya.

Day three, take in the scenery of the Taurus Mountains or visit the Lara district to conclude your time in the area.