Things To Do
in Döşemealtı

Döşemealtı is a charming district located in the Antalya Province of Turkey, nestled in the picturesque Taurus Mountains. Known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere, it is an ideal escape from the bustling tourist areas of Antalya. The region boasts a rich history and offers a variety of cultural experiences, including traditional Turkish architecture and local markets.

With its proximity to nature, Döşemealtı is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Döşemealtı Nature Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among beautiful trees and streams.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the local market to experience the vibrant colors and flavors of fresh produce and handmade goods.

evening
:

End your day with a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like kebabs and mezes.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hike on the nearby trails, such as the Gölbasi Nature Park, where you can enjoy stunning views.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at a local café, sipping on Turkish tea and tasting baklava.

evening
:

Spend your evening at a local cultural event or music performance, immersing yourself in the local arts scene.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🍅1 kg of tomatoes$1
🥖Simit (bread)$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Less crowded compared to popular tourist destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Bilmiyorum" - I don't know
  • "Nerede?" - Where is it?
  • "Lütfen" - Please

Places to Visit in Döşemealtı

Visit one of these nice places.

Döşemealtı Waterfall

A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Local Market

Vibrant scenes of local life, bustling with colors and textures that tell the story of the region.

Taurus Mountains

The majestic backdrop of the Taurus Mountains provides breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Döşemealtı

Döşemealtı offers a delightful variety of traditional Turkish cuisine that reflects the region's agricultural heritage and culinary creativity.

Döşemealtı Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebap

Grilled meat skewers, often served with rice and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Meze

A selection of small dishes served as appetizers, including hummus, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves.

Pide

Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients like cheese, minced meat, or vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Döşemealtı Market

A lively market held weekly, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Street Vendors

Try gözleme (stuffed flatbreads) or simit (sesame bread) from local street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Döşemealtı experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach above 30°C (86°F), while winters are usually mild, averaging around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is more frequent from November to March, while the summer months are typically dry and sunny, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Be mindful of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Greeting

A friendly handshake or a nod is common; it’s polite to greet locals when entering shops.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and it is polite to try all offered dishes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Döşemealtı is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, basic safety measures should be taken, such as safeguarding your belongings in crowded areas and being cautious at night. Emergency services can be reached easily, and it's advisable to keep local emergency numbers handy.

Tipping in Döşemealtı

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in restaurants; around 10% is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

With blooming flowers and mild temperatures, spring is ideal for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Hot and sunny, summer is perfect for exploring nearby beaches, but be prepared for high temperatures.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful fall colors make autumn a great time for photography and hikes.

Winter

Mild winter temperatures allow for comfortable exploration, though some higher trails may be snow-covered.

Nightlife Guide

Döşemealtı at Night

Döşemealtı has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily consisting of local cafés and restaurants that often host live music. While there are not many nightclubs, you can enjoy a night out at a local tavern, where traditional Turkish music fills the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Some venues also offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the pleasant evening weather under the stars.

Hiking in Döşemealtı

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gölbasi Nature Park Trail

An easy to moderate trail that winds through beautiful landscapes and offers stunning views of the lake.

Kıralan Plateau

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Taurus Mountains and the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach Döşemealtı by plane.

Antalya Airport (AYT)

Located approximately 30 km from Döşemealtı, Antalya Airport is the main international gateway, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Döşemealtı is quite walkable, especially in the town center where amenities and attractions are located close together. Sidewalks are generally available, and the area is pedestrian-friendly. However, for those wishing to explore more rural or mountainous areas, it may be necessary to rely on transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents are involved in agriculture, contributing to the region's rich produce.

Tourists

Döşemealtı attracts both local and international tourists looking for a quieter experience away from the busy city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans.

Cycling

With its scenic routes, cycling is a favored activity among locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Döşemealtı is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect to nearby Antalya and other districts. However, during peak tourist seasons, traffic may increase, especially near popular attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Döşemealtı.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so check with restaurants in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Döşemealtı is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for both locals and tourists. Emergency services can be reached easily, and most medical staff can communicate in English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide