Things To Do
in Serik
Serik is a district in Antalya Province, tucked inland from the southern Turkish coast. It blends historic ruins, farming villages, and easy access to resort areas, offering a quieter alternative to bigger cities. The area serves as a gateway to ancient sites like Perge and Aspendos while preserving rural charm and terraced agriculture.
Visitors can enjoy welcoming Turkish hospitality, scenic drives, and proximity to both nature and antiquity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Serik, where you can savor traditional Turkish pastries and tea. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the ancient architecture and vibrant local markets. Stop by the Serik Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
In the afternoon, visit the impressive ancient site of Perge, just a short drive from the center. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including the Roman theater and stadium, while soaking in the historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a picnic lunch among the ruins, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to a local restaurant to indulge in a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood caught from the Mediterranean. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, basking in the golden hues of twilight. End your evening with a traditional Turkish tea at a nearby café, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the beautiful beaches of Belek, just a short distance from Serik. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoying the soft sands beneath your feet. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at some water sports like jet skiing or paddle boarding.
After a morning of fun in the sun, grab lunch at a beachside café where you can sample local seafood dishes. Spend the afternoon relaxing under a beach umbrella or participating in organized beach games and activities. Take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean to cool off as the heat of the day intensifies.
As evening approaches, join a beach barbecue party where you can enjoy grilled meats and fresh salads while listening to live music. Watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Conclude your day with a moonlit stroll along the beach, enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-50 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $60-120 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to impressive ancient ruins and scenic canyon landscapes
- Proximity to Belek’s beaches and Belek/Antalya’s dining options
- Relaxed atmosphere with Turkish hospitality and rural charm
- Excellent golf and outdoor activity opportunities
- Serik itself is quieter than nearby Antalya city center
- Some sites require day trips and driving; traffic can be heavier in peak season
- Limited nightlife within Serik; more options require travel to Belek or Antalya
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Hesap, lütfen" - Check, please
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Serik
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world, set in a scenic hillside with a backdrop of olive groves and mountains.
Extensive ruins with colonnaded streets, Roman baths, and a theater; ideal for architectural and landscape photography.
Steep limestone cliffs and emerald river corridors create dramatic daylight and golden-hour opportunities.
Narrow lanes, stone houses, and traditional courtyards offering intimate, texture-rich images.
Wide moonlit horizons and calm sea reflections provide classic coastline photography.
Food in Serik
Serik Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bean and onion salad often seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and sumac; a staple side or light main to accompany grilled meats.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced meat skewer grilled over charcoal, typically served with flatbread, grilled peppers, onions, and fresh herbs.
Freshly grilled sea bass or gilthead bream, often served with lemon, olive oil, and seasonal vegetables.
An assortment of small dishes such as hummus, haydari, cacık, ezme, and fresh olives, ideal for sharing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and street-food stalls; a good place to sample seasonal snacks.
Market area known for fruit stands, grilled street foods, and vendors selling baked goods and Turkish drinks.
Simit, gözleme (savory pastry), midye dolma (stuffed mussels), and fresh fish sandwiches are commonly found along coastal lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people politely and use polite phrases like Merhaba and Teşekkür ederim. Return smiles and eye contact.
Modest dress is appreciated in rural areas and in religious sites; pack a light scarf for visits to mosques and markets.
Ask before photographing people or private spaces; some elders may prefer not to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Serik
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) is appreciated if not included in the bill. Leave a little extra for service staff in cafes and for hotel staff. Taxis usually do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops; cash in Turkish Lira is preferred in markets and smaller eateries. ATMs are common in towns; keep small bills for tips and street purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry conditions with long days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and use sunscreen; coastal winds can be refreshing.
Mild temperatures and thinner crowds; ideal for outdoor visits to ruins and canyon trails; sea remains comfortable into October.
Milder coastal climate but cooler inland; some services and smaller attractions may have reduced hours; risk of rain and occasional chilly winds.
Pleasant temperatures and lush landscapes; great for hiking and photography with flowering plants and clear skies.
Serik at Night
Hiking in Serik
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Well-marked trails along the canyon with river views, suitable for varied fitness levels.
Steep, forested trails leading to ancient city ruins with panoramic vistas above Antalya.
Gentle to moderate walks along the coastline and into the foothills behind Belek for scenic sea views.
Airports
How to reach Serik by plane.
Major international and domestic hub serving the region; about a 30–60 minute drive to Serik/Belek depending on traffic.
Smaller airport serving seasonal and domestic flights; longer drive to Serik but useful for some itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of generations in smaller towns and villages, often sharing meals and markets with neighbors.
Tourists and expatriates, especially in Belek, with a cosmopolitan mix during the resort season.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Belek is renowned for its championship golf courses, drawing players from around the world.
Popular sport among locals; casual matches and fan culture are common in towns.
Swimming, snorkeling, and sailing opportunities along the coast near Belek and Antalya.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Serik.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy meze platters, pilaf with vegetables, salads like piyaz, grilled vegetables, and dairy-based dishes; ask for olive oil–based preparations and avoid meat sauces.