Things To Do
in Antalya
Antalya sits on the turquoise Turkish Riviera, framed by the Taurus mountains and a sparkling Mediterranean coastline. Its historic Kaleiçi district blends Ottoman and Roman architecture with narrow lanes and a lively harbor. The city pairs ancient ruins such as Perge and Aspendos with modern beaches, resorts, and vibrant markets.
A year‑round gateway to natural beauty, it offers seafood, sun, and easy coastal explorations along with a welcoming southern Turkish culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Antalya Airport as the warm Mediterranean breeze welcomes you. Wander along the palm-lined waterfront boulevard, feeling the gentle sea breeze as you admire views of the Taurus Mountains. Let the rhythmic lapping of the waves and the calls of seagulls announce the start of your adventure.
Head into the heart of Kaleiçi’s narrow streets to discover hidden courtyards and Ottoman-era architecture. Pop into artisanal shops selling handwoven carpets, colorful ceramics, and copperware as the midday sun casts playful shadows on ancient walls. Stop at a traditional lokanta for a leisurely lunch of gozleme and ayran, immersing yourself in local flavors.
Watch the sunset paint the Mediterranean in fiery hues while dining al fresco at a seafood restaurant overlooking the marina. Absorb the mellow hum of live Turkish music drifting through the night air as lanterns flicker around you. Savor a plate of fresh grilled fish and a glass of local white wine, toasting to the beginning of your journey.
Rise early to wander the winding alleys of Antalya’s historic center before the crowds gather. Admire the restored Ottoman houses adorned with flower-laden balconies and snap photos of the iconic Hadrian’s Gate as golden light filters through its arches. Pause for a strong cup of Turkish coffee in a charming courtyard café to fuel your explorations.
Visit the Antalya Toy Museum and the ethnographic exhibits that reflect the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Lose yourself in time at the Kesik Minare and the Yivli Minare Mosque, marveling at their distinctive Seljuk architecture. Refuel with a light lunch of pide and salads at a local meyhane tucked away behind stone walls.
As dusk falls, join a walking tour that illuminates hidden stories of ancient Roman ruins scattered among boutique hotels. Sip a glass of raki on a rooftop terrace, inhaling the aromas of kebabs grilling below. Let the twinkling lights of the marina guide you back through the narrow lanes of this living museum.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍷Three-course restaurant meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🎟Museum or attraction ticket | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and coastline
- Excellent seafood and hospitality
- Beautiful; great value in a popular Mediterranean destination
- Summer crowds and heat
- Some areas can feel very touristy
- Traffic in peak season and on coastal roads
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check, please
Places to Visit in Antalya
Visit one of these nice places.
Stone alleyways, whitewashed facades, and ancient gate architecture provide classic Mediterranean imagery.
Colorful boats, moody light, and gelato-colored façades frame waterfront photography at sunset.
Lush greenery and dramatic cascades offer dynamic nature shots and misty portraits.
A historic vantage point above the harbor with sweeping views of the sea and cityscape.
Food in Antalya
Antalya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bean and onion salad often finished with tahini and lemon; a staple accompaniment to grilled meats.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced beef wrapped in flatbread with fresh herbs and lemon—great as a quick street bite.
Grilled whole fish or fillets seasoned with olive oil and herbs, commonly found by the harbor.
A spread of small dishes—hummus, salads, olives, and fresh seafood mini-dishes to share.
Thin, crisp flatbread topped with minced spiced meat and vegetables; often rolled up with fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market stalls offering olives, spices, cheese, fresh seafood, simit, and regional specialties near the harbor.
Casual spots where locals grab fresh grilled fish to eat on the go or take away to the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting mosques; remove hats and shoes where required and speak softly in sacred spaces.
A warm greeting like Merhaba is appreciated; accepting tea is common and polite, even if briefly.
Food is central to social life; be patient with mealtime pacing and enjoy sharing plates.
Safety
Tipping in Antalya
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) is customary if service is not included; for guides and taxis, round up or add a modest amount.
Turkish Lira is common, but credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days begin, flowers bloom, and the old town is lively with fewer crowds than in high summer.
Hot and sunny; beaches and boat trips are in full swing; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak hours.
Pleasant temperatures and comfortable evenings; good for outdoor activities and photography without peak season crowds.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; many outdoor spots are quieter, making it ideal for museums and hilltop viewpoints.
Antalya at Night
Hiking in Antalya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient city set high in the Taurus mountains with rugged trails and mountain scenery.
Cool gorge with shaded trails and a river; ideal for a summer hike.
River canyon with trekking paths and rafting options just outside the city region.
Forest and coastline walks with ancient ruins and relaxing scenery.
Airports
How to reach Antalya by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; about 30-40 minutes from the city center by road.
Alternate gateway serving southern Turkey; longer transfer to Antalya region by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in the city with a rich cultural mix in urban areas.
Seasonal and year-round presence in tourist zones, with English commonly spoken in service sectors.
Large numbers of Turkish travelers from other cities, especially in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Prominent sport with local clubs and a strong fan culture; matches and facilities around the city.
Jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving along the coast.
Trails in the Taurus Mountains for day trips and scenic rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antalya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many meze platters and vegetable-forward dishes available; ask for seasonal greens and eggplant-based options.
Most Turkish cuisine can be enjoyed with halal preparation; many dishes can be prepared without gluten-containing ingredients by asking in advance.