15 Best Things to Do in Antalya
Antalya, often hailed as the “capital of tourism in Turkey” and affectionately known as the “Turkish Riviera,” is a city that masterfully combines a pulsating urban rhythm with breathtaking natural beauty and a rich ancient heritage. Nestled along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, it stands out as one of the most frequently visited cities in the nation and a premier summer holiday destination worldwide. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a history aficionado, or simply seeking a serene escape, Antalya offers a plethora of extraordinary experiences that are sure to captivate your senses.
From exploring well-preserved ancient ruins and iconic historic landmarks to unwinding on pristine, Blue Flag beaches and savoring the delights of authentic Turkish cuisine, this vibrant city provides a unique fusion of culture, relaxation, and adventure for every type of traveler. Its distinct charm and diverse attractions make it a particularly favored destination for couples, who are drawn to its romantic ambiance, picturesque historic streets, and magnificent sea vistas. Get ready to delve into the very best that Antalya has to offer!
Explore Kaleiçi (Old Town)
No journey to Antalya is truly complete without immersing yourself in the captivating charm of Kaleiçi, the city’s historic Old Town. This enchanting district is meticulously enclosed within ancient Roman and Ottoman-era walls, creating a labyrinth of narrow, winding cobblestone streets. As you meander through these picturesque lanes, you’ll discover beautifully restored stone houses, many of which have been transformed into boutique hotels, inviting restaurants, and unique souvenir shops. Kaleiçi serves as a vibrant microcosm of Antalya’s rich architectural and cultural heritage, showcasing remnants of Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman civilizations. Key landmarks within or easily accessible from Kaleiçi include the majestic Hadrian’s Gate, the distinctive Yivli Minaret Mosque, and the scenic Old City Marina.
Kaleiçi is consistently highlighted as a must-see in virtually all Antalya travel guides and packages, underscoring its pivotal role in the city’s identity. It’s an ideal place for leisurely daytime exploration, browsing through local handicraft stores and Ottoman-era mansions, and transforms into a lively social hub as night falls. For a tranquil moment, head to Kecili Park and enjoy stunning panoramic views over the harbor from its glass balcony, especially magical during sunset as the sun descends behind the magnificent Taurus Mountains. Be mindful that the streets can be steep and uneven in places, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended.
Marvel at Hadrian’s Gate
Standing proudly at the entrance to Kaleiçi, Hadrian’s Gate is a truly stunning triumphal arch, built to commemorate the visit of Roman Emperor Hadrian to Antalya in 130 AD. As the sole remaining entrance gate of the ancient city walls, it serves as a grand and imposing gateway to the Old Town. This magnificent triple-arch design, supported by elegant marble columns, makes it a highlight for both Antalya sightseeing and photography. Take a moment to admire its intricately carved stonework and imagine the bustling scenes of Roman soldiers and traders who once passed through it.
Hadrian’s Gate is considered one of the top activities in Antalya and an unmissable spot for tourists, offering free entrance. Its location makes it a great entry point into Kaleiçi, surrounded by numerous restaurants and shops. You can easily reach it on foot from most city center hotels, or by taking the Nostalgic Tramway to the Kale Kapısı stop, followed by a short 5-minute walk. Due to its immense popularity, the gate can become quite busy during the day, making early morning visits ideal for uninterrupted photos and a more serene experience. The area around it is also perfect for relaxation and historic sightseeing.
Set Sail from the Old City Marina
Nestled within Kaleiçi, the Old City Marina is a historic port that beautifully embodies Antalya’s rich maritime heritage. Today, it is adorned with an array of yachts and inviting cafes, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can browse and shop from local vendors and fishermen, or simply enjoy a relaxing breakfast by the waterfront.
The marina is your gateway to numerous scenic adventures. You can embark on boat tours to neighboring Antalya attractions, such as the impressive Düden Waterfalls, or take a traditional gullet tour to explore the stunning Mediterranean coastline. Options range from party-centric boat trips to more relaxed cruises, including voyages to Suluada Island (often called the “Maldives of Turkey”), the Kekova Sunken City, or Porto Genoese with its unique mud baths. For families, pirate boat trips offer a fun-filled experience for kids. The marina is free to explore and conveniently located near Kapisi Sokak in the old town. Morning boat trips are generally less crowded, so consider an early departure for a quieter experience. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear for stops at secluded coves for swimming and snorkeling.
Discover Düden Waterfalls
One of Antalya’s most celebrated natural wonders is the magnificent Düden Waterfalls, comprising both upper and lower sections, located just 12 kilometers (7.45 miles) from the city center. These falls are often regarded as among the most beautiful natural attractions in Antalya.
The Upper Düden Waterfall, with its impressive 20-meter (65.61 feet) drop, offers a serene setting perfect for camel rides, peaceful walks, and picturesque picnics. It boasts an atmospheric environment and even features a secret cave that allows visitors to witness the falls from behind the curtain of water. The Lower Düden Waterfall is a truly spectacular sight, plunging a dramatic 40 meters (131.23 feet) directly into the Mediterranean Sea. It is best admired from a cliffside park, where you can find cafes and trails, or from a boat tour for a unique perspective from the water. Karpuz Kaldıran waterfalls are also noted as worth visiting. Easily accessible by car or bus, these falls are an integral part of any Antalya travel itinerary for nature lovers.
Relax on Lara Beach
Lara Beach consistently ranks high on the list of best places to visit in Antalya, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant entertainment. This extensive stretch of coastline is renowned for its fine sands, shallow waters, and abundant opportunities for exhilarating water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving.
Beyond its recreational activities, Lara Beach hosts the annual Sandland Festival, an event where international artists create magnificent large-scale sand sculptures. As evening approaches, Lara transforms into a hub of Antalya’s nightlife, pulsating with beach clubs, lively bars, live music performances, and themed hotel entertainment. While many large resorts occupy sections of Lara Beach for their guests, the western end remains public and easily accessible. Despite getting busy during peak summer, the facilities at Lara Beach are excellent for an affordable family day out. For a more luxurious experience, visitors can indulge in day passes at upscale resorts like Titanic Deluxe Lara or Concorde De Luxe Resort to enjoy private beaches and dedicated beach service.
Step Back in Time at Perge Ancient City
For enthusiasts of ancient history and heritage, Perge Ancient City (Perge Antik Kenti) is an unmissable Antalya attraction. Situated just outside the city, this site boasts exceptionally well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins dating back to the Hellenistic period, around 323 to 31 B.C.E.. Perge was once a flourishing Roman city, celebrated for its impressive stadium, grand theatre, and monumental gates.
As you explore, you can wander along the main columned streets, flanked by ancient pillars and the remnants of temples, Roman baths, and shops. The stadium, capable of holding up to 12,000 spectators in its prime, and the theatre offer a vivid glimpse into ancient life. Perge has been added to the UNESCO Tentative List, solidifying its status as a must-see in Antalya. While the site is extensive and can take several hours to fully explore, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are advisable, especially in the summer heat. You can reach Perge via the T1B tram to Aksu and a quick taxi ride, or opt for an organized excursion which often includes a local guide, transfers, and lunch.
Admire the Yivli Minaret
Dominating the skyline near Kaleiçi, in the very heart of Antalya, stands the Yivli Minaret, a defining symbol of Antalya’s rich historical landscape. Also known as the Fluted Minaret, this distinctive 40-meter (131.23 feet) arched minaret was constructed during the Seljuk era in the 13th century. It is positioned next to a mosque (Yivliminare Camii or Alaaddin Camii or Ulu Camii) that is believed to have replaced a Byzantine church.
The Yivli Minaret is a prime example of Seljuk architectural influence and remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in Antalya. Visitors can explore the adjacent mosque, the remains of a dervish lodge, and nearby madrasah ruins, although climbing the minaret itself is not permitted. This essential stop is often included in sightseeing walks around the old town and Republic Square. Surrounded by souvenir shops and beautifully restored Seljuk architecture, the Yivli Minaret is undoubtedly a cultural highlight among the top things to do in Antalya.
Wander Through Karaalioğlu Park
For those seeking a peaceful respite amidst Antalya’s bustling energy, Karaalioğlu Park offers an idyllic retreat. This beautiful park is renowned for its picturesque coastal cliffside, adorned with flower-lined pathways, exotic trees, and refreshing water fountains. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, presenting stunning views of the sea and the Taurus Mountains.
Visitors can enjoy the outdoor gym, let children play in the dedicated playground, have a leisurely picnic, or simply soak up the sun. Reasonably priced cafés within the park provide options for lunch or a refreshing drink. The park also offers access to Hidirlik Tower, providing further breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Easily accessible from Kaleiçi and frequently included in Antalya sightseeing routes, Karaalioğlu Park is a must-see for a quiet escape and for capping off your day with tea at a cliff-perched café during sunset.
Visit Hidirlik Tower
Perched at the edge of Karaalioğlu Park, the 2,000-year-old Roman structure of Hidirlik Tower (Hıdırlık Kulesi) stands as one of Antalya’s most prominent tourist spots. This ancient tower offers expansive views of the sea, dramatic cliffs, and the historic Roman Harbour. Its unique architecture features a cylindrical upper section resting upon a square lower part.
A slender staircase leads up to the tower, and the surrounding gardens provide a tranquil setting for relaxation. Hidirlik Tower is a well-known and free attraction, making it one of the best things to do in Antalya, especially for tourists intrigued by Roman history and panoramic vistas. Climbing to the top offers a unique perspective on Antalya’s past and present, making it a vital component of any historical sightseeing tour.
Shop at The Old Bazaar
For an authentic taste of local culture and a vibrant shopping experience, a visit to The Old Bazaar (Kaleiçi Bazaar) is an absolute must in Antalya. This bustling marketplace is a treasure trove where you can immerse yourself in the artistry and traditions of the region. Wander through its bustling alleyways, brimming with an incredible array of goods.
You’ll discover Turkish silk rugs, intricate copperware, exquisitely handcrafted ceramics, luxurious leather products, dazzling gold and silver jewelry, a tempting selection of local delicacies, and aromatic spices. A traditional highlight of shopping here is that shopkeepers often offer visitors a cup of Turkish tea (çay) while you browse, enhancing the cultural engagement. The bazaar’s covered areas provide a comfortable shopping environment, even during the hotter months. Exploring The Old Bazaar is an essential activity for anyone looking to engage deeply with Antalya’s vibrant culture and partake in the region’s unique artistic heritage.
Experience The Land of Legends Theme Park
For an unparalleled family-friendly experience that promises excitement for all ages, The Land of Legends Amusement Park is a premier destination in Antalya. Often described as “Disneyland with a Turkish twist,” this massive entertainment complex offers a truly diverse range of attractions.
It features an expansive theme park with exhilarating roller coasters and rides suitable for various ages, a huge water park complete with crazy slides and wave pools, and an upscale shopping avenue reminiscent of Dubai. The park also boasts a fairytale castle and a continuous program of shows and events, including a captivating musical boat parade and a spectacular fountain show. For a unique dining experience, consider an evening meal at the aquarium restaurant, Nemo. Day passes entitle visitors to unlimited rides, slides, and admission to the 5D cinema. Located in the Konyaaltı district, The Land of Legends guarantees a fun, safe environment and is a hub of top attractions, especially for families and leisure tourists.
Delve into History at Antalya Museum
The Antalya Museum (Antalya Müzesi) is an indispensable stop for history aficionados visiting Antalya, offering a deep dive into the region’s rich past. Spanning an impressive 30,000 square meters (322.91 square feet) and featuring 13 exhibition halls plus an open-air gallery, it is recognized as one of the largest and most important museums in Turkey.
The museum houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts that trace Antalya’s history from the Lower Palaeolithic to the Byzantine era. Among its highlights are magnificent Perge sculptures, exquisite Roman sarcophagi, intricate Lycian artifacts, ancient coins, and revered icons. Visitors can also explore sections dedicated to modern and children’s art. The statues depicting mythological figures like Heracles, Zeus, and Apollo, unearthed from neighboring ruins, and the striking depictions of Roman decapitation, are particularly noteworthy. Having been awarded the Council of Europe’s Special Prize in 1988, the Antalya Museum continues to be celebrated as one of Antalya’s best tourist destinations for cultural exploration. It’s also an excellent option for exploring when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor activities.
Attend a Show at Aspendos Ancient Theatre
A visit to the Aspendos Ancient Theatre is a journey back to the height of Roman engineering and architecture, consistently featured in every Antalya travel guide. Constructed in the second century AD, this theatre is renowned as one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Its remarkable capacity once accommodated up to 20,000 spectators.
What makes Aspendos truly unique is that it still serves its original purpose, hosting drama and opera festivals, most famously the renowned Aspendos Opera Festival. Attending a performance here, or the mesmerizing Fire of Anatolia Dance Show, offers a magical and unique experience within this ancient masterpiece. Beyond the theatre itself, visitors can explore the surrounding ancient city, which includes the agora, nymphaeum, bouleuterion, acropolis, and an impressive third-century aqueduct stretching 19 km. This site is a must-see for anyone interested in classical engineering and ancient architecture.
Indulge in a Traditional Hammam Spa Day
A Hammam, or Turkish bath, is much more than just a spa treatment; it’s a deeply rooted cultural ritual and an essential part of the Turkish self-care routine. Historically, hammams served as public bathing spaces, and today they offer a unique blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.
Treating yourself to a hammam is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing yet culturally rich things to do in Antalya. The experience typically involves shedding dead skin with a thorough full-body scrub, followed by a foamy massage that leaves you feeling reborn and incredibly smooth. While some luxury resorts like Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek offer excellent hammam facilities, standalone establishments like Sefa Hammam in Kaleiçi provide a full Ottoman-style bathhouse treatment in a wonderfully indulgent way. This experience is particularly recommended at the beginning of your holiday to achieve sun-kissed, glowing skin. Whether you seek a private, luxurious escape or a more communal, local experience like that found at Demirhan Bath, a hammam day is an unforgettable journey of self-indulgence and cultural bonding.
Take in the Views from Tünektepe Hill or Mount Tahtalı (Cable Car)
For breathtaking, expansive views of Antalya and its stunning surroundings, a trip to one of its high vantage points via cable car is a must-do activity. The Tunektepe Teleferik, or Antalya Cable Car, provides an unparalleled perspective. Taking a cable car ride to the top of Tünektepe Hill offers unrivaled panoramic vistas of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, and the distant Taurus Mountains. At the summit, you’ll find a café where you can relax and savor the mesmerizing scenery, particularly captivating at sunset.
Another spectacular option is to ascend Mount Tahtalı, located just an hour outside Antalya. The Olympos Teleferik cable car whisks you up to over 7,000 feet (2,300 meters) in just 10 minutes, revealing jaw-dropping views of the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea stretching far into the horizon. There’s also a café at the top of Mount Olympos where you can enjoy a tea. Both experiences offer an incredible sense of the city’s scale and its beautiful natural setting. Timing your visit with sunset from either location promises a truly magical and memorable experience.
Conclusion
Antalya is truly a jewel of the Mediterranean, offering an unparalleled array of experiences that cater to every taste. From its vibrant ancient history visible in the cobbled streets of Kaleiçi and the grand ruins of Perge and Aspendos, to its stunning natural landscapes featuring cascading Düden Waterfalls and the panoramic views from Tünektepe Hill, the city promises an adventure filled with discovery and delight. Whether you’re indulging in a rejuvenating hammam, enjoying water sports on Lara Beach, or exploring the lively Old Bazaar, Antalya seamlessly blends relaxation, adventure, and rich cultural immersion.
FAQs
1. What is Antalya famous for, and what makes it a prominent destination?
Antalya is recognized as the “capital of tourism in Turkey” and the “Turkish Riviera”, known for its vibrant urban rhythm, natural beauty, and ancient heritage. It boasts numerous well-preserved ancient ruins (Perge, Aspendos, Termessos), stunning Mediterranean beaches (Konyaaltı, Lara), breathtaking natural landscapes (Taurus Mountains, Düden Waterfalls), and historic landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and the Old Town (Kaleiçi).
2. What are the must-visit historical sites and natural attractions in Antalya?
Key historical sites include the charming Old Town (Kaleiçi), Hadrian’s Gate, the Yivli Minaret, and the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos (with its famous Roman theatre). Natural attractions not to miss are the Düden Waterfalls (Upper and Lower), Konyaaltı Beach, Lara Beach, Suluada Island, and panoramic views from Tünektepe Hill.
3. When is the best time to visit Antalya, and what are the seasonal considerations?
The best months to visit are April, May, September, and October. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures (mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit) for exploring historical sites and hiking, with fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is hotter and busier, ideal for beaches but with more tourists. Off-season visits (e.g., November or February) can bring good sunshine and cheaper deals, though winter is generally colder and rainier.
4. Is Antalya a good destination for couples, and what are some romantic activities?
Yes, Antalya is a highly popular and ideal destination for couples, blending ancient history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture for a mix of relaxation and adventure. The Kaleiçi Old Town is particularly romantic with its charming streets, boutique hotels, and sea views. Romantic activities include wandering historic ruins, enjoying cliffside cocktails, relaxing on beaches, taking Mediterranean boat trips, experiencing a traditional hammam, and dining with stunning views.
5. How can visitors get around Antalya, and what are some practical tips for exploring the city?
Visitors can use an AntalyaKart for cheap and convenient trams and buses. Uber is recommended over traditional taxis due to potential overcharging, or insist on the meter. Car hire is suggested for exploring the wider region, while walking is ideal for areas like Kaleiçi. Practical tips include wearing comfortable shoes, bringing sunscreen and water, visiting sites early to avoid crowds, buying a local SIM card, learning basic Turkish phrases, bargaining in markets, and respecting mosque customs.
