Gulet sailing boat near sunken remains of Lycian town on coast of Kekova Island.

Once seen simply as the gateway to the Turkish Riviera, Antalya today is very much a destination in its own right. Situated right on the Gulf of Antalya (Antalya Körfezi), the largest city on Turkey's western Mediterranean coastline is both classically beautiful and stylishly modern. At its core is the wonderfully preserved old-city district of Kaleiçi (literally 'within the castle'), which offers atmospheric accommodation in the finely restored Ottoman houses on its winding lanes. The old city wraps around a splendid Roman-era harbour with clifftop views of hazy-blue mountain silhouettes that are worth raising a toast to. Just outside of the central city are two beaches and one of Turkey's finest museums.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Narrow street in Antalya old town, Kaleici.

Antalya's historic district is a sight in itself and you could happily spend half a day strolling the narrow lanes here while admiring the mix of finely…

Woman photographing statue of Tyche (Fortuna).

Antalya Museum

Do not miss this comprehensive museum with exhibitions covering everything from the Stone and Bronze Ages to Byzantium. The Hall of Regional Excavations…

Turkey, Antalya, Yivli Minare mosque

Yivli Minare

This handsome and distinctive 'fluted' minaret, erected by Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubad I in the early 13th century, is Antalya's symbol. The adjacent…

Antalya, Turkey

Hadrian's Gate

Commonly known as Üçkapılar (the 'Three Gates') in Antalya, the monumental Hadrian's Gate was erected for the Roman emperor's visit to Antalya in AD 130…

Roman Harbour

Roman Harbour

The Roman harbour at the base of Kaleiçi's slope was Antalya's lifeline from the 2nd century BC until late in the 20th century, when a new port was…

Mawlawi Lodge Museum

Mawlawi Lodge Museum

Tucked away within the Yivli Minare complex, this fascinating domed structure dates back to 1377 and was beautifully restored in 2018. Its original use is…

Sultan Alaadın Camii

Sultan Alaadın Camii

This gem of a mosque is squirrelled away in the back alleys of Kaleiçi. It began life as the Greek Orthodox Panhagia Church in 1834 and was converted to a…

Antalya Culture & Arts

Antalya Culture & Arts

This contemporary cultural centre has a lively program of exhibitions covering artists from local heroes to Picasso and Warhol. There's a cafe and small…

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Latest stories from Antalya

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Wildlife & Nature

Jan 19, 2017 • 1 min read

A cat village has been set up in Antalya, Turkey, with villa-style houses, hammocks and playgrounds designed exclusively for approximately 100 street cats.

Tall ship at sunset, Antalya, Turkey

Sep 15, 2014 • 5 min read

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8 BEST Things to Do in Antalya, Turkey (2024 Edition)

From ancient Roman ruins to beachside retreats on the Mediterranean Sea, here are the absolute best things to do in Antalya, Turkey.

Duden Waterfall Things To Do In Antalya Turkey

Straddling both continental limits and the boundary between ancient and modern times, Turkey is a fascinating destination for history buffs and adventure addicts alike.

While most explore the intricately decorated millennia-old mosques and buzzing covered markets of Istanbul, the harbourside city of Antalya receives far less footfall.

Table of Contents

1) Imagine chariot races in the preserved stadium of Perge

2) or visit the ancient ruined city of aspendos, 3) do go chasing waterfalls, 4) explore kaleici, antalya’s old town, 5) hit the rapids on an adrenaline-fueled rafting tour, 6) chill out on one of antalya’s beaches or luxury resorts, 7) get your hiking boots on for the lycian way, 8) have lunch overlooking the old harbour, the best things to do in antalya.

With the preserved streets of its old town a hive of history, the huge selection of idyllic beach hotels geared towards utter relaxation located along its coast and the ruins of Roman fortifications only a stone’s throw away, there are plenty of things to do in Antalya.

The countryside surrounding this city is a hotbed of beautiful and historically important monuments. Exploring them should rank top of your list of what to do in Antalya – and is enough to keep you busy for days.

The ruins of Perge , the former capital of the Asia Minor region of Pamphylia Secunda, is an incredible example of the Roman architecture that still exists in the area. Most come to see the incredible Great Theatre and the set of two unusual gate-towers that once controlled access to the city.

However, it’s the massive stadium, one of the largest and best-preserved in the world, that is the most exciting part of any trip to Perge.

Built to accommodate up to 15,000 spectators to watch chariot racing, you’ve no choice but to sit in the stands and just imagine what it must have been like during one of these epic competitions.

READ MORE: Be sure to check out Olympos just south of Antalya!

Around 40km from Antalya itself, the remains of the ancient city of Aspendos are another worthy day trip. The most incredible sight is the theatre, which dates from between 160-180 A.D. and is the best-preserved theatre of its kind in the world.

Aspendos

What’s great is that you can actually explore this monument.

Climb up the wide rows of seating to stand on the very top step and experience what it must have been like to watch a performance here, an event researchers believe to have been attended by up to 8,000 people.

A short distance away you can also peer up on awe at the looming aqueducts that once provided the city with water from the nearby mountains.

Turkey is a country that has a remarkably rich history, and landmarks such as the ruins of Aspendos, are an unmissable part of the Antalya sightseeing.

Discover the Aspendos among other ancient cities such as Perge and Side on this amazing half day tour that only ends with a dip in the waterfall on your way back to Antalya.

A short boat trip or drive around the coast of Antalya is the best way of arriving at the region’s most popular natural attraction: the Duden Waterfalls.

These are two impressive falls fed by a river that runs all the way from the Taurus Mountains to terminate in the Mediterranean Sea.

The Lower Duden crashes down the cliff face into the water and is best viewed from onboard a ship. While the Upper Duden, 15km outside of Antalya, can be reached by car or local bus.

The latter falls have carved a deep gorge out of the rock as well as a cave that cuts behind the veil of water. You can actually wander around through the cave for an unusual perspective on these mammoth waterfalls.

These breathtaking sights of nature are an Antalya must see!

Tucked back from the limestone cliffs that edge the main harbour, Kaleici , Antalya’s Old Town has been well-preserved by the Turkish authorities and makes for an excellent relaxed afternoon in the city.

Kaleici

Here, Roman ruins rub shoulders with elegant mosques, including the Yivli Minare Mosque, a beautiful building easily recognised by its huge, 13th-century minaret that towers over the surrounding area.

In and around Kaleici there are also plenty of tiny shops and market halls for buying souvenirs and even a Turkish carpet!

You’ll also have no choice but to stop at one of the many relaxed street-side cafes and the Antalya Museum for a spot of culture.

From all places to visit in Antalya, Old Town is one you can’t afford to miss!

When visiting a destination that’s brimming with history, the best way to learn about it is with a professional guide.

Here you can book a full day private sightseeing tour , where among other breathtaking sights such as Düden Waterfalls, you will explore Old Town too.

Around 90km away from Antalya is one of Turkey’s top rafting spots: Koprulu Canyon National Park .

Home to the longest canyon in the country, this park is also an incredible spot for rafting and one of the top adventurous Antalya attractions.

Crash through everything from Class I (beginner) through to VI (expert) rapids as you power down the picturesque Kopru River, passing through forests of pine, cypress and cedar trees that might even offer a glimpse of foxes, wolves or even bears.

You can also pitch up beside the river in campgrounds if you plan to spend more than an afternoon rafting in the park.

If you enjoyed Antalya and want to explore more of Turkey, don’t miss out on Istanbul !

The coastline stretching away from Antalya is renowned for being an area of incredible natural beauty, with a whole host of beaches where you can go to chill out and catch some rays along the Turquoise Coast.

Konyaalti and Lara Beach are the main beaches accessible from the city. Konyaalti extends 7km west, while Lara Beach is on the eastern side of town and is close to some of the area’s glitziest holiday resorts.

If you want to escape the crowds, Kaputaş, a three-hour drive from Antalya, is a far more low-key affair which is perfect for windsurfers and just getting away from the city.

When you get tired of exploring ruins and white water rafting, make sure to enjoy some r&r at some of the most famed Antalya tourist attractions – its beaches.

Gloria Resort In Antalya Turkey

Antalya is also home to an incredible range of luxury resorts, including the Gloria Serenity Resort  where I stayed.

It has a selection of accommodation (most with their own private hot tub) and guest access to various restaurants, swimming pools, gyms and its own private stretch of golden sanded beach.

Although part of the fun of visiting Turkey is gorging yourself on its delicious local cuisine or kicking back on a beach, there comes a time when you need to get up and burn off all those calories.

Luckily, the Lycian Way, a 540km path that reaches all the way to Fethiye, a city further west along the coast, starts right outside of Antalya.

Traversing stretches of Turkish countryside filled with ancient relics and offering panoramic views of both sea and mountains, the 29-day Lycian Way is the most adventurous method of exploring the Turkish coast and is often named one of the world’s top long-distance hikes.

If you’ve not got a month to spare, with the whole route clearly indicated with red and white painted stripes, you can easily hike a shorter stretch.

One amazing town to visit is Olympos , which makes a great launching off point for the Lycian Way.

The Lycian Way’s landscapes are one of the most incredible things to see in Antalya.

READ MORE: Be sure to check out all the great things to do in Izmir when you visit Turkey!

What I quickly learned on my trip to Turkey is how much the locals like to eat. One of the best ways of getting introduced to Turkish food and Antalya’s most stunning sight, is dining overlooking its ancient harbour.

Coast In Antalya, Turkey

Founded two thousand years ago as a port town, Antalya has grown around this dock and nowadays it’s where the rich park their yachts and where you can take a boat around the coastline to visit the waterfalls.

Perched above the cliffs and all around the harbour are a series of restaurants serving up fresh fish and other typical Turkish dishes.

We dined in Arma Restaurant , surely the most sensationally located of all thanks to its panoramic views of the coast.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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About the Author - Steph Dyson

Steph Dyson is a travel writer and educational volunteer who writes about adventurous travel and meaningful volunteering as she believes them to be life-changing but accessible ways of exploring the world. Currently based in Santiago, Chile, she’s spent almost two years travelling, volunteering, and living in several South American countries and is still not ready to go home yet. A cheese addict and Bolivian television personality (well, almost), she’s a lover of the great outdoors and never says no to an adventure. You can check out her tips for travelling and volunteering in South America on her website, Worldly Adventurer .

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15 thoughts on “8 BEST Things to Do in Antalya, Turkey (2024 Edition)”

Aspendos theater and Kaleici district are really beautiful.

Exactly what you described happened to me in Antalya and it was enjoyable.

Glad you enjoyed our article. 🙂

Thanks for this amazing list! I went to Antalya last year and it is such a beautiful city with lots of things to do. My favorite was definitely Kaleici. It was such a picturesque place.

I hope the people of Turkey still want us there. My wife (57) and I (64)walked the Lycian way in 6 weeks in sep, oct 2019, camped some nights but stayed in some great resorts along the way. so much easier once I threw my hiking boots in the bin. Felt safe and realy appreciated the friendhip and assistance given by everyone. Just looking at the photos on-line encourages me to return and walk once again.

Hi there! I looooove antalya. I think it’s the best in turkey. I went there and stayed in serwood hotel that was my best travel in turkey. best, zahra

Glad you had a great time there. Thank you for your comment.

Is it in downtown, or outside Antalya??? Thanks Zahra

Nice list head there tomorrow 🙂 any good cafe suggestions to work from?

Have a great trip Sam. 🙂

Well be there in July 2019

Have a wonderful time 🙂

Thanks a Lot of for your Complete Guideline on Antalya. Now it’s my bucket list, We are decided to visit Antalya in may-2019.

Thank you. Great you are going there. Have a great time 🙂

Pls share your trip experience.

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Antalya in 3 Days: A Comprehensive 3-Day Itinerary

In just 3 days, you can enjoy Antalya’s amazing beaches, old ruins, and lively culture. Our 3-day guide will show you the top spots to visit in Antalya, helping you get the best out of your trip.

Antalya in 3 Days

Day 1: old town, ancient ruins, and waterfalls.

Begin your journey in the charming old town of Kaleiçi. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved Ottoman mansions, and visit historic sites such as Hadrian’s Gate and the Clock Tower. This area is also home to numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to grab a traditional Turkish breakfast.

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Perge Ancient City

After exploring Kaleiçi, head to the ancient city of Perge, just a short drive from Antalya. Marvel at the impressive ruins, including the Roman theater, stadium, and Hellenistic gate.

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Next, visit the ancient ruined city of Aspendos, famous for its well-preserved Roman theater that can accommodate up to 15,000 spectators.

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Day 2: Beach, Ancient Theater, and Natural Wonders

On your second day, visit Lara Beach, a popular destination offering pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Indulge in various water sports or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline.

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Düden Waterfalls

Conclude your first day with a visit to the breathtaking Düden Waterfalls, where you can witness the water cascading from a height of 40 meters into the Mediterranean Sea.

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Kursunlu Waterfalls

End your Antalya adventure with a trip to the Kursunlu Waterfalls, a picturesque natural wonder surrounded by lush greenery. Take a leisurely walk through the park, snap some photos of the cascading water, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

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Day 3: Ancient Theater and Natural Wonders

Conclude your first day with a visit to the ancient city of Termessos, nestled in the Taurus Mountains. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including the theater, temples, and city walls, while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

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Phaselis Ancient City

After exploring Aspendos, head to the ancient city of Phaselis, where you can wander through the ruins of this once-thriving port city and enjoy the beautiful beaches nearby.

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Olympos Beach

Conclude your Antalya adventure with a visit to Olympos Beach, located near the ancient city of Olympos. Relax on the pristine sands, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and explore the nearby ruins.

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In just three days, this itinerary unveils the essence of Antalya, blending its deep-rooted history and vibrant culture with breathtaking natural vistas. Whether you’re drawn to the past, crave sun-kissed beaches, or seek a memorable escape, Antalya beckons with a promise of diverse delights.

How many days is enough in Antalya?

Ideally, 3 to 5 days in Antalya allow travelers to fully explore the main attractions of the city, its surrounding historical sites, and also spend some leisure time on the beaches. However, the duration can vary based on individual preferences and the pace of travel.

Are 3 days enough for Antalya?

Yes, 3 days in Antalya can provide a good overview of the city’s highlights. With a well-structured itinerary, visitors can experience the main attractions, delve into the local culture, and enjoy the coastal ambiance.

Is Bodrum better or Antalya?

While both Bodrum and Antalya have their own unique charm and offerings, many would argue that Antalya stands out for several reasons. Antalya boasts a broader range of historical attractions, more diverse natural landscapes, and offers a mix of both modern amenities and ancient wonders. Its location also provides access to several significant ancient ruins in the region. Moreover, Antalya’s size and diversity cater to a wider range of tourists, whether they are history enthusiasts, beach lovers, or cultural explorers. In essence, while Bodrum has its own allure, Antalya offers a more comprehensive experience for travelers.

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Hello! I'm Enes Karaboga, founder of 'Turkey Things'. Since 2017, I've been your guide to Turkey, offering insider knowledge and the best deals on hotels, transfers, flights, and activities. Here are some of the best deals I have for you: Use KiwiTaxi from/to Airport and other destinations. Check our 10 Cheapest Hotel Deals in Istanbul now Save up to 55% on Attraction Tickets with Istanbul E-pass

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7 Wonderful things to do in Antalya, Turkey

Often referred to as the pearl of the Turkish Riviera, Antalya and its stunning coastline are famed as one of the best summer destinations in Turkey , if not Europe.

While I can’t deny Antalya’s phenomenal beaches and pleasant temperature, I also know that this is merely a fraction of what Turkey’s number-one beach getaway has to offer.

The starting point of all these incredible things to see and do is the old town; Antalya’s historical centre, celebrated for its maze-like cobblestone laneways, lively harbour and ancient Roman structures.

Add to that incredible nature (make sure you check out the Düden Waterfalls), loads of excellent dining options, and several exciting day trips within reach, and you understand why Antalya has become a favourite among travellers and locals alike.

To help you make the most out of your time here, I’ve created this Antalya guide, including my favourite things to see and do, where to stay, travel tips and more.

So whether you solely visit Antalya for everything beach related or wish to dive deeper into the history of this fascinating town on the paradisiac Turkey coast, I’ve got you covered!

WHERE IS ANTALYA

Antalya is a popular beachside destination on Turkey’s picturesque southwest coast and is flanked by the incredible Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.

With over 1 million inhabitants – and loads of travellers during the summer months, the capital of the Antalya region is considered Turkey’s fifth-most populous city.

WHERE TO STAY IN ANTALYA

As one of the main summer destinations along Turkey’s paradisiac Mediterranean coast, Antalya is home to accommodation that cater to every budget and travel style.

Whether you’re after an upscale beachfront resort, a comfortable apartment with a swimming pool, or something in between, this coastal town is teeming with brilliant accommodation options.

All that is left to do, is pick the right accommodation for you –  to make choosing easier, I’ve listed some of my personal favourites below:

APARTMENTS & HOTELS IN ANTALYA

Casa Sur Antalya | Situated in the heart of Antalya Old Town, this place is easily one of my most authentic finds in Antalya. The rooms are minimalistic, yet utterly stylish – think brick walls, wooden furniture, patterned carpets, and rustic design elements. It also boasts a garden of calm with plenty of comfy lounge corners as well as a rooftop terrace with views over Hadrian’s Gate.

Pacco Boutique Hotel & SPA | If you’re looking for a comfortable boutique hotel without breaking the bank, Pacco Boutique Hotel & SPA is a high-rated hotel with a spacious outdoor swimming pool for less than €60,- a night. It also has direct access to Konyaalti Beach, a trendy bar, several lounge areas, and an in-house fitness centre.

Elegance East Hotel | As the name might already suggest, the Elegance East Hotel is probably the most elegant hotel in Antalya Old Town. Traditional Kaleici architecture set the tone for an excellent stay, while a large outdoor pool and its prime location in the historical centre offer you the ultimate holiday feeling. Make sure you click the link to see if this palace-like hotel is for you.

BEACHFRONT RESORTS IN ANTALYA

Ramada Plaza Antalya | Just 700 metres from Antalya’s historic Kaleiçi, Ramada Plaza offers world-class service, modern spacious rooms with sea view, a swimming pool, and a superb sundeck on a cliff next to the Mediterranean. Ramada Plaza also offers all-inclusive stays for those craving a fully arranged summer getaway.

Rixos Downtown Antalya | Set within the exotic gardens of the Ataturk Culture Park, this luxurious hotel offers the best of both worlds. With extremely comfortable rooms, a large outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and an excellent location next to Konyaalti Beach, Rixos offers all the amenities for a relaxing stay. Add that you’re only a stone throws away from the lively old town and its historical ambience, and it is clear why Rixos is travellers favourite in Antalya.

Alternatively, search for accommodations in Antalya on booking.com .

7 WONDERFUL THINGS TO DO IN ANTALYA, TURKEY

1 | take a walk around kaleiçi | antalya old town.

I fairly believe that any trip to Antalya should involve at least one day of explorations in its most picturesque part; Antalya Old Town, locally known as Kaleiçi.

Perched between the Mediterranean and Antalya’s somewhat chaotic city centre, Kaleiçi is a charming old town full of maze-like cobblestone laneways, historical architecture, and trendy cafes and restaurants.

Although Antalya Old Town is pretty compact in size, it is home to several intriguing historical sights, including Hadrian’s Gate, Hidirlik Tower, and the Yivli Minaret to name a few.

I’ve spent plenty of time in the streets of Antalya Old Town, and have to say that it’s best explored on an early morning walk when the temperature is still bearable and the light perfect for photography.

If you’re in the mood for a tasty dinner or a few late-night drinks, the old town has plenty of excellent options to satisfy those needs too.

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Antalya Old Town

Antalya Old Town | Things to do in Antalya

2 | ADMIRE THE ANCIENT YIVLI MINARE

Rising high above Antalya Old Town is the ancient Yivli Minare, an incredibly elegant ‘fluted’ minaret that is known as the symbol of Antalya.

The towering minaret and its adjacent mosque were built in the early 13th century by Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubad I, and are still very much in use today.

Besides its value to serve worshippers, the ornate building is also one of the best visited historical monuments in the region, as it displays the beauty of Anatolian Seljuk architecture.

Something worth noticing is an ancient inscription placed next to the entrance of the Yivli Minare, as it seems to illustrate the building process of the minaret.

Merely for its distinctive Turkish Anatolian design, the Yivli Minare should be on any list of things to do in Antalya. Luckily, it is inevitable that you’ll encounter this towering masterpiece when planning a visit to the historic old town.

Where | Yivli Minare, Antalya Old Town

Yivli Minare | Things to do in Antalya

3 | SWIM AND RELAX AT KONYAALTI BEACH

You can’t come to one of Europe’s hottest summer destinations and not spend at least a couple of days relaxing on a lounger next to the inviting Mediterranean sea.

And if you ask me, there’s no better place to do so than at Konyaalti Beach.

Situated at only a short walk of Antalya Old Town, this extensive pebbly beach is one of Antalya’s best beaches and perfectly suited for an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming.

Konyaalti Beach is also backed by a lively boulevard that is packed with trendy restaurants and cafes, public shower facilities, and incredible views of the Taurus Mountains in the distance.

All in all, Konyaalti Beach has everything on offer for a lazy beach day under the Turkish sun.

Where | Konyaalti Beach

Cost | Sun loungers and umbrellas should cost 20 to 40 TL (€2 – 4) a day

Bring | Swimwear, a towel and a good book

Konyaalti Beach | Things to do in Antalya

4 | BEHOLD THE RUSHING DÜDEN WATERFALLS

Nestled on a towering cliff on Antalya’s stunning coastline, the Lower Düden Waterfall is a 40-metre high waterfall that flows directly into the Mediterranean.

While I’ve seen quite a few waterfalls throughout my travels, this was the first time I’ve seen one ending in the ocean, which makes the Lower Düden Waterfall a pretty unique sight to behold.

It was in fact, one of the most surprising places that I’ve stumbled upon in Antalya.

But as impressive as the Lower Düden Waterfall might be, the Düden Waterfalls are actually a set of two separate waterfalls that are interconnected by a stream.

Unfortunately, I only heard of the Upper Düden Waterfall after leaving for Istanbul , but from what I’ve heard it must be equally as impressive as the Lower Düden Waterfall.

So if you have a day spare, you now know what to do with it!

Where | Düden Waterfalls

Recommended tour | This 8-hour tour of Antalya includes a boat ride to the Lower Düden Waterfall – plus a trip to the Upper Düden Waterfall and Antalya Old Town. Prices and availability here

Lower Duden Waterfall | Things to do in Antalya

5 | ADMIRE HADRIAN’S GATE

During my travels, I often feel fascinated by the greatness of the former Roman Empire and the amount of incredible ancient architecture that they actually left behind.

It was the ornate Hadrian’s Gate that initiated this exact feeling in Antalya.

Built in the name of Roman emperor Hadrian back in 130 AD, this triumphal arch is now one of Antalya’s most important historical sights, and entering the old town through it is quite a happening.

If you look closely, you’ll notice that the two towers on either side of the gate hold architectural elements that indicate different periods in history.

Most notable is an Arabic inscription that dates back to the reign of Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubat on the upper part of the Northern Tower.

At present, Hadrian’s Gate is the only remaining entrance gate to Kaleiçi (old town), and therefore the perfect starting point for explorations within it.

Where | Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya Old Town

Hadrian's Gate | Things to do in Antalya

6 | WATCH THE SUNSET IN KALEICI HARBOUR

When wandering through the twisting laneways of Antalya Old Town, you’re fortunately never too far from the old town’s picture-perfect Harbour.

Tactically situated at the core of Antalya’s fortified old town, the Kaleici Harbour is a hip and happening place that is bursting with positive energy, especially on a warm summer’s evening.

Whether you’re planning to enjoy a few sunset drinks in a trendy bar, take a relaxing evening stroll with a scoop of gelato in hand, or sit down at a dock to take in the sunset instead, you’re ensured of a wonderful evening anyhow.

Where | Kaleici Harbour, Antalya Old Town

Kaleici Harbour | Things to do in Antalya

7 | SPEND AN AFTERNOON RELAXING IN KARAALIOGLU PARK

Taking it easy in Antalya’s lush Karaalioglu Park is easily one of my favourite things to do in Antalya, as it’s a great way to see daily local life unfold.

Situated at only a stone’s throw away from Antalya Old Town, the Karaalioglu Park is a large oasis of calm where locals and travellers alike come to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

In addition to an extensive collection of imposing exotic plants and trees, the park is also home to the Hidirlik Kalesi, a striking Roman structure that dates back nearly 2.000 years ago.

Add to that the shimmering Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains as its backdrop, and you instantly realize why Karaalioglu Park has become such a popular summer hangout.

Where | Karaalioglu Park, Antalya Old Town

Karaalioglu Park | Things to do in Antalya

WEATHER IN ANTALYA | BEST TIME TO VISIT ANTALYA

Given its position in the Mediterranean, Antalya is an attractive destination at any time of year.

However, I believe most of you travel to a beach destination to enjoy good weather, and in that case, the best time to visit Antalya is between April and October, when temperatures reach up to 36 degrees, especially in the peak summer months of June, July and August.

With long summer days overflowing with the sun, the conditions are excellent for spending time poolside or at the beach, while explorations around the old town are completely possible too.

One thing worth mentioning is that summertime in Turkey is pretty popular, meaning you’ll share the beach with many sun-seeking tourists during the peak season.

HOW TO GET AROUND ANTALYA

With so many awesome places near Antalya (Pamukkale, Purge and Aspendos just to name a few), picking up a rental at the airport is actually one of the best things you can do.

If you wish to have the freedom to travel around Antalya on your own terms, you might want to consider renting a car. Not only is it easier to reach the nearby highlights, but it also saves you time and money.

For car rental in Turkey , I would recommend searching for an option that suits your needs on  Rentalcars.com. They offer excellent service, additional insurance, and a broad selection of cars, all at an affordable price. More information and availability here .

MY FAVOURITE DAY TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN ANTALYA

If you’re after an organized tour of Antalya and its surroundings, here are some of the best picks.

HOW TO GET TO ANTALYA

As a major summer destination in Europe, you’ll be amazed at how easy it actually is to get to Antalya via plane, especially during the peak summer months.

Both Domestic and International flights arrive at the Antalya Airport , located only 13 kilometres northeast of Antalya’s picturesque old town.

For cheap flights to Antalya, make sure you check out Skyscanner . Not only is their website user-friendly, but they also offer a large range of airline options – plus it’s easy to find good rates.

A shuttle bus leaves from the Antalya Airport every 30 minutes and takes you to the city centre in roughly 50 minutes. A one-way ticket costs 3,60 TL (€0,70) per person.

If you prefer some extra comfort, taxis are a relatively cheap alternative too. A taxi should cost no more than 60 TL (€15,-), and takes only 20 minutes.

SAFETY IN TURKEY | TRAVEL INSURANCE

While Turkey is completely safe for travellers, I always aim to enter a foreign country with my travel insurance sorted out, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer to assume that everything runs smoothly during our travels, the reality is often that something can go wrong at any given moment – when that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

KEEP ON READING WITH THESE IN-DEPTH TURKEY GUIDES

After spending 3 weeks in Turkey, I’ve made plenty of in-depth guides that might interest you too.

CAPPADOCIA | 13 Wonderful things to do in Cappadocia

CAPPADOCIA HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT | A guide to a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia

RED & ROSE VALLEY IN CAPPADOCIA | A hiking guide to Red and Rose Valley

LOVE VALLEY IN CAPPADOCIA | A complete guide to Love Valley in Cappadocia

ANTALYA | 7 Wonderful things to do in Antalya

ISTANBUL | 13 Awesome things to do in Istanbul

PLAN YOUR TURKEY ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES

A hiking guide to Red Valley Cappadocia

A guide to the Red & Rose Valley in Cappadocia

Hot air balloon flight Cappadocia

A guide to a Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia

14 Things to do in Istanbul Turkey where the souls wander

13 Awesome things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

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13 Wonderful things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey

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A complete guide to Love Valley in Cappadocia, Turkey

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Travel Dave

Things to do in Antalya, Turkey A traveller’s guide to the city

  • by Dave Brett

Antalya, Turkey

Antalya, Turkey was a perfect escape from the cold Spring breeze that I was experiencing in the UK this April.

I was in search of sun and after looking at all the possible holiday destinations across Europe, Antalya, Turkey comes across as the perfect destination.

I’d never travelled to Turkey before and didn’t know a lot about the Antalya region and it looked like the perfect location for an adventure.

Before going to Antalya, I had a few warnings from friends and family wondering if it was safe to travel to Turkey. This was simply not true at all. Antalya, Turkey was safe and I never felt in danger at any moment throughout the trip.

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8616

In fact, I received nothing but warm hospitality and smiles from the local Turkish people. I felt very safe throughout my trip.

With holiday packages to Turkey at rock bottom prices, it has never been a better time to visit Turkey than now.

For UK travellers, Always seek advice from the FCO website every time you travel to look into the current up-to-date situation. This will ensure that your travel insurance remains valid throughout your trip.

I had a wonderful week exploring Antalya, Turkey and wanted to put together this traveller’s guide that is all about exploring the city and sharing my favourite spots.

Kaleici, walking around the old town of Antalya

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8077

Kaleici is the old town location in the city of Antalya. Here you can take yourself back in time and walk around the old cobbled streets as you navigate your way through marinas, mosques and old bazaars.

This was one of the big highlights that made Antalya special to me as the old town of Kaleici simply has it all and you could easily get lost for days exploring all the back alleys.

I’m going to leave some photos here and you can make up your own mind. Enjoy the virtual photography walk:

Hadrian’s Gate, the entrance to the old town

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8535

Hadrian’s Gate acts as a middle road between the old town and the new.

Easy to spot in Antalya as it’s located at the start of the main shopping street.

It’s been well preserved and for sure worth stopping off at to learn about the history of this gate. An important monument in Antalya, Turkey.

Grabbing a Turkish Tea by the Marina

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8209

One of my favourite things to do in Antalya, Turkey is to grab a local Turkish tea and take in the stunning ocean view that Antalya has to offer.

Especially when the sun starts to set and the sun glimmers across the sea it’s truly spectacular to experience.

Do as the locals do and grab a local Turkish tea, relax a little bit and take in the stunning Antalya landscape.

Duden Waterfalls is worth the visit

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8406

If you have some spare time to kill, Duden Waterfalls is totally worth the visit.

It’s a little out of the city centre but if you can rent a car for the day and visit Termessos Colosseum as well, this would make a great day trip.

It’s extremely touristy in the fact that it’s all set up like Disneyland with a ticket office and gift shops at the entrance.

If you can look around all this and head straight to the stunning falls on display, you won’t be left disappointed.

Totally worth a visit if you have some extra time and a way to reach this area as it is a 30-minute drive from the city.

Termessos Colosseum

Antalya, Turkey, 2016SKMH1949

You will have to rent a car for the day or go with a guided tour to reach Termessos Colosseum as it’s an hour out from the city centre of Antalya.

Could easily do Duden Waterfalls together in a day, which is what we did.

Take yourself back in time to when the Romans were in Antalya.

Antalya, Turkey, 2016JBNU6425

Located on the highest point surrounded by the stunning Antalya national park, the area itself is really cool and totally worth checking out. It’s not a boring drive, that’s for sure.

All the ruins leading up to the Colosseum lay around on the ground battered up and untouched but yet still maintained and preserved.

I liked visiting Termessos for this reason that it had mostly been left untouched almost like it had been abandoned.

Try and aim to get to this place early in the morning and have the whole place to yourself.

It’s awesome to hang out here for a while and cast your mind back to what happened here once upon a time.

Konyaalti Beach area, a great hangout spot

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8661

Being based in Konyaalti was a nice idea as it’s only a walking distance away from the main beach.

Here you can find a number of cafes that line the strip and locate a chill local vibe here.

Nice location to soak in some sun and waves as well as grabbing a Turkish tea and watching the sunset.

Travel from Antalya city centre to Konyaalti by local bus

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8525

(You can buy top-up bus cards from many local shops around Antalya.)

Travelling by bus in Antalya is a local experience, to say the least.

For one, you won’t find any bus timetable information at any of the bus stops, and it’s very difficult to get any help from the driver.

But for around 40p per ride, what have you got to lose!

It can be an adventure in itself and sometimes I have to admit I had no idea where I was going but it all seemed to work.

Some routes only went one way on a loop so finding the bus back can be tricky.

One issue is that the bus drivers no longer accept money and you will have to buy a top-up card like the one pictured above.

If you plan on staying in the Konyaalti area, it’s rather fun and straightforward to travel around by local bus as you will only find two buses going to the city and back.

All I can say is, best of luck and have an adventure with it.

If you’re hungry and in the Konyaalti area, be sure to check out Urfa Sultan Sofrasi

Antalya, Turkey, 2016IMG_8670

(If you want to try some local Turkish food, this is your spot.)

I will admit that I ate at this place almost every day. If you’re in the Konyaalti area, be sure to check out Urfa Sultan Sofrasi.

They serve local Turkish dishes from the grill and I never had a bad dish here, all fantastic and great value for money.

The staff are super friendly too, and always felt welcome, had to give them a shout out because the food and service was fantastic.

Can’t wait to visit again sometime in the future. Turkish food is so good!

Where did I stay in Antalya? Hun Club Konyaalti

Was looking for a place to stay for two weeks and managed to find the Hun Club on Airbnb which was located in Konyaalti.

Konyaalti was around 10 minutes by bus to the city centre of Antalya, Turkey.

It was nice to be located in the area of Konyaalti as it was quiet and only a short walk to the beach.

Also, the apartment was self-catering and I like to do my own cooking and have a more home base type of stay from time to time.

You could find many affordable supermarkets close by as well. This place worked out perfectly.

Check out my YouTube video of things to do in Antalya, Turkey.

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— Dave Brett

Travelling the world, one adventure at a time. Follow the UK's leading solo adventure travel blogger, Dave Brett on his travels around the world. An Adventure travel blog that features travel tips and advice, inspirational stories, travel videos and travel photography that will help you inspire and plan your next trip abroad.

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The Turkey Traveler

17 Exciting Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey!

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Antalya is one of the most popular tourist spots on the Turkish Riviera, and not just because of its jaw-dropping coastline and world-class beach resorts.

Antalya is located near many of the best landmarks in Turkey , and its reliable transport system means it’s really easy to explore other areas in the country.

One of the main reasons to visit Antalya is its location. Being practically in the center of the country and nestled on the Turkish Riviera, you can pretty much take a day trip to most of the top sites in the country!

If you’re putting together your itinerary, then you might want to add some day trips from Antalya to your list. While Antalya itself has a whole host of incredible attractions, no trip to Turkey would be complete without visiting some of these Antalya day trips.

Planning a trip to Antalya last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Antalya:

  • Airport Shuttle From Antalya Airport To City Center (Best way to get into town!)

Here are our recommended tours in Antalya:

  • City Tour w/ Cable Car, Boat Trip and Waterfall (A must-do In Antalya!)
  • Suluada Island Boat Trip (Secluded island for swimming and snorkeling)
  • Traditional Turkish Bath with Massages
  • Taurus Mountains Full-Day Jeep Safari (Great for exploring off the beaten path)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Antalya:

  • Sky Kamer Hotel Antalya (Has seaview rooms in the historic center!)
  • Megasaray Westbeach Antalya (All-inclusive resort right on the beach!)
  • Hostel Vauge (Most famous hostel in Antalya!)

How to Take a Day Trip From Antalya

First things first, let’s talk about the ways you can take a day trip. Antalya is a huge city and has a very reliable and trusty transport system. However, some of these day trips are quite a distance, so what is the best way to get to them?

If your chosen attraction is more than an hour or two driving distance outside of Antalya, your best bet would be to hire a car. While buses run regularly and are usually reliable, they are quite slow, and since you’re wanting to take a day trip you’ll want to save as much time as possible.

Some of these day trips require you to fly. Yes, on a plane! But don’t worry, since these attractions are hugely popular, airlines have scheduled flights from as early as 6 AM and returning as late as 11 PM, meaning you could actually fly across the country and see sites and come back the same day. Crazy, right?

Antalya Beach

Another great way to see day trips is through guided tours. This is the best way to see attractions for those who prefer a ‘no fuss’ way to travel since everything is planned and prepared for you.

In most cases, taking a tour from Antalya is safe and usually cover entrance fees and the cost of your transport, but this is not always the case. Do check with the tour company first to make sure, otherwise, it will be a very costly day out.

Tours will pick you up from your hotel, or a central location, for added convenience.

If you would prefer to do a DIY Antalya day trip, no problem! We prefer to work it out for ourselves too. Below in each of our recommended day trips, we have shared our recommended ‘way to get there’, which could be by bus, plane, hiring a car or tour.

It’s a good idea to see which attractions interest you the most, before thinking about transport as you might decide you’d like to take a couple of these day trips from Antalya.

The Best Day Trips from Antalya

So without further ado, here are the best day trips from Antalya, from historic landmarks to iconic natural settings, these attractions simply cannot be missed out on any Antalya itinerary .

Standing not far away from the ever-popular tourist town of Kusadasi, is one of the most iconic cities in the ancient region – Ephesus .

This oasis of archeological sites is one of the most famous landmarks in Turkey, known for its breathtaking 10th century BC Roman and Ancient Greek ruins.

The site covers almost 6.6 square km, featuring a wide collection of incredibly well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins. Ephesus was once the second largest city of the Roman Empire and therefore one of the most important; it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 .

Izmir-to-Ephesus-Tour

It’s home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the spectacular Temple of Artemis. Over twice the size of any other similar ancient Greek temple sites, it took almost 120 years to complete, before being burnt down in 356 BC.

Other important sites in the complex are the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the mighty Roman Amphitheater capable of housing 24,000 spectators.

Although it’s a long distance from Antalya, it’s possible to travel there and back within a day if you are determined enough, though we recommend you stay overnight if you have more time at your disposal.

Ephesus is simply a must-see attraction in Turkey, especially if you only have a short time in the country and want to see some of the most iconic ancient sites!

  • Distance from Antalya: 411 km (255 miles)
  • Travel time: 5 hours by car, 7 hours by bus, 7 hours 25 minutes by train, 1 hour 10 minutes by plane plus an additional train for 1 hour.
  • Best way to get there: To get to Ephesus, you must first get to Izmir. From Izmir, there are three ways to get to Ephesus . Take a plane from Antalya to Izmir Airport (1 hour 10 minutes). From Izmir airport, there is a train (1 hour) directly to Selcuk. From Selcuk, you can walk for 10 minutes to Ephesus, or take a minibus or taxi. There are flights with SunExpress that leave at around 9.20am, and get to Izmir at 10.30am, which would mean arriving at Ephesus at midday at the latest. We would recommend staying in Selcuk to get some lunch before visiting Ephesus since you’ll want to avoid the midday heat. Return flights operate as late as 10.30pm from Izmir Airport with SunExpress so there is plenty of time to enjoy the sites. If you don’t want to arrange it all yourself, you can also book a tour from Antalya to Ephesus.

2. Lycia Rock Tombs

For a perfect day trip adventure, head around two and a half hours south of Antalya to Dalyan, navigating your way along the beach road and following the beach and turquoise Mediterranean waters.

Soon you will have officially entered the land of the Lycians, the name of the people that lived in this area since the records of Ancient Egypt. The Lycians (pronounced Lik-ee-ans) believed that once you died, your spirit was carried to the afterlife by magical winged creatures.

say antalya travel

To greater the chances of reaching said afterlife, the Lycians built intricately detailed tombs carved high up into the mountainside, they were mostly reserved for the Kings and Queens of the era.

Built almost 2500 years ago in 500BC, remarkably, these tomb sites are still in excellent condition today and can be seen in small numbers across the region.

  • Distance from Antalya: 139 km (86 miles)
  • Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes by car, 3 hours by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: The best way to get there is by hiring a car or taking the bus. Since it takes a couple hours, we recommend starting as early as possible. Alternatively, you can book onto a private tour which includes a hotel pick up and drop off.

3. Cappadocia

Best-Time-To-Visit-Cappadocia-Featured

Contrary to popular belief, Cappadocia isn’t just a city, it’s actually the name for the entire central region of Turkey.

Famous for its breathtakingly beautiful landscape and fairytale-like hot air balloon rides that fill the morning sky, Cappadocia has so much to offer the weary traveler wishing to spend a few days in the area. It’s an excellent place for hikes too, with many trails dotted around the towns leading you to historical chimneys, castles, and sunset views to die for.

For something a little out of the ordinary, you should consider a guided tour of Derinkuyu Underground City , a vast, deep, underground city that was effectively a defensive haven during the brutal invasions of the Middle Ages, large enough to shelter up to 20,000 Cappadocia locals.

The distance from Antalya to Cappadocia is quite far, so you’re going to need to fly if you want to see it in a day, however it’s possible to do it.

You can also book yourself onto one of the red tours or green tours , which are day tours of the region. The tours can pick you up and drop you off at the airport, so you can catch a late evening flight back to Antalya.

It will be a bit of a rush, but if you’re short on time in Turkey and are not afraid of long days, then it’s certainly a journey worth taking.

  • Distance from Antalya: 575 km (357 miles)
  • Travel time: 7.5 hours by car, 10 hours by overnight bus, 1 hour 15 minute flight from Antalya to Kayseri Erkilet Airport.
  • Best way to get there: Since it’s a long drive, the best way to get there is to fly. You can find flights leaving as early as 3AM with Turkish Airlines, transfer in Istanbul, and arrive in Nevsehir at 8AM. You will find return flights with Turkish Airlines at 8.50 PM and gets into Antalya at midnight, so you have a whole day of exploring. Since you only have a day, we recommend opting for either the green tour or red tour . You’ll be tired after, but it will be so worth it. If you have more time on your side, consider taking a 2-day tour of Cappadocia from Antalya with an overnight stay in a cave hotel.

4. Koprulu Canyon

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One of the more popular day tours from Antalya and the local region is Koprulu Canyon. A favorite of the locals and tourists alike, it’s a strikingly picturesque national park for swimming, relaxation, and for those brave enough to attempt, even some white water rafting.

Perfect for escaping the heat of the beach, which trust us, if you’re visiting in the summer you’re going to need to find places to cool down in!

With a monumental stone bridge across the Canyon itself the star of the show, there are also smaller bridges more than worthy of checking out too, allowing you to capture the perfect Instagram shot.

With activities like horse riding and quad safaris on offer as well, there’s so much to do here that you might even decide to make use of the camping facilities at the canyon.

  • Distance from Antalya: 91 km (56 miles)
  • Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes by car, 45 minutes by bus to Serik and 50 minutes taxi, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: Since you would need to take a bus and a taxi (and a 50 minute taxi journey would be expensive) the best and most economical way to get to Koprulu Canyon is to hire a car and drive. If you don’t drive, you can find private tours from local travel agencies to take you to Koprulu Canyon from Antalya, which will pick you up from your hotel and drop you back at your hotel after a full day of exploring.

5. The Taurus Mountains

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Running almost parallel with the gorgeous Mediterranean sea lies the snow-capped peaks of the Taurus Mountain range (well, snow-capped in the winter). Throughout Turkey’s rich and diverse history, the Taurus Mountains have remained an iconic symbol of its mythological past.

Boasting rugged limestone terrain and towering peaks and cascading waterfalls, the mountain range is home to small, traditional villages where you can stop for a local lunch and get to know those that live in this remote region of Turkey.

Interestingly, the range gets its name from the historic culture of the surrounding land with the bull (Taurus) and being only a few hour’s drive away, it makes for an excellent day trip from Antalya.

  • Distance from Antalya: 250 km (155 miles)
  • Travel time: 3 hours by car, not available by bus or train
  • Best way to visit: Since there are no trains or buses, the best way to visit is to hire a car and drive. Alternatively, you can find excursions from Antalya that will pick you up from any hotel and drop you home after. If you don’t drive, a day tour is your only option.

6. Fethiye and Oludeniz

Blue-Lagoon-oludeniz-Turkey

Fethiye is an immensely popular tourist resort city nestled along the golden sands of the Turquoise Coast. Arguably one of its main drawing points is Oludeniz, a small town just 15-minutes drive away, which is home to the iconic Blue Lagoon .

It’s got everything a coastal city needs – from huge, stunning Fethiye beaches and promenade, exquisite Turkish restaurants and cafes specializing in the most delicious, fresh seafood, to huge forested mountains like that of Mount Babadag, Fethiye is one excersion you simply have to make.

Not only is the water of the lagoon warm and crystal clear, but its sand is also sumptuously soft making it an ideal place to catch some rays.

If you’d like a more active day trip from Antalya to Fethiye, then worry not. Fethiye is the paragliding capital of Turkey and is one of the highest paragliding jump sites in the world. It’s also a great place to partake in water sports such as stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, and peddle boating.

After a day at the beach, head down to the promenade in Oludeniz to enjoy one of the bars along the seafront, or head over to the ancient abandoned village of Kayakoy for a more cultural experience.

  • Distance from Antalya: 194.8 km (121 miles)
  • Travel time: 3 hours by car, 5.5 hours by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: Since it’s a long drive, you’re only option would be to hire a car and set off very early.

say antalya travel

Konya is a major city in south-central Turkey and is steeped in history after having been inhabited since the third millennium (3000) BC.

Within Turkey itself, it’s widely regarded as the country’s ‘spiritual’ capital and as a result, has been almost forgotten about by tourists from all over.

One of the main attractions in Konya is the fascinating tomb of the Persian Sufi mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, or better known as Rumi. He’s often regarded as one of history’s best, and most influential poets. Rather confusingly for the tourist, Rumi’s tomb name is the Mevlana Museum .

Even if you aren’t familiar with Rumi or his work, the Tomb is simply a must-see when in the area. The interior is sure to take your breath away. Best of all – it’s free!

Konya is a small city and can be seen in a full day, however if you don’t want to get up early to drive to Konya we recommend staying one night and driving back the next day, and seeing Konya over two half days.

  • Distance from Antalya: 300 km (186 miles)
  • Travel time: 4 hours by car, 6 hours by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: it’s going to be a long trek, but you’ve got little choice but to hire a car and drive. You’d need to get up early, but it’s doable.

8. Pamukkale & Hierapolis

Pamukkale Travertine Terraces

Where to start with Pamukkale . Just like Cappadocia, Pamukkale is a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site and is probably one of the most photogenic places on the planet. This is exactly why you would be a fool not to visit whilst you’re in the country.

Pamukkale literally translates to ‘Cotton Castle’ in Turkish, and is a completely natural site known for the carbonate mineral which has been left by the flowing waters of the Cal Mountain. It’s also famous for its hot water thermal springs which you can actually swim in.

Once you’re done exploring the scenery of Pamukkale, you can head to the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis which is located at the top of the mineral deposits.

hierapolis

The ancient city of Hieropolis dates back to the early 2nd century BC and was built in its location to make use of the hot thermal springs from nearby Pamukkale.

Because of this, it was known as a ‘spa town’ and thousands flocked to Hieropolis to experience the natural wonders on its doorstep.

Unfortunately, like many ancient Greek cities in the area, it was destroyed by an earthquake that didn’t leave much standing. However, you can still see the well-preserved theater and its necropolis with tombs to give you an idea of the layout of this magnificent place. The North Gate is also largely preserved.

History buffs and travelers will also revel in the fact you can also see the tomb of Philip the Apostle too.

For a day trip from Antalya to remember, this is the one – if only you remember it for the long car ride! Don’t worry though, you can find a bunch of tour operators that will run this day trip and include hotel pick up and drop off.

  • Distance from Antalya: 240 km (149 miles)
  • Travel time: 3 hours by car, 3 hours 15 minutes by bus, N/A minutes by train
  • Best way to get there: The best way to get there is by hiring a car or taking a bus, since the bus is only 15 minutes longer. If you don’t want to look up bus times and plan your day, you can also take a guided tour to Pamukkale, which also stops by Hierapolis.

9. The Ancient City of Perge

say antalya travel

Wonderfully easy to get to from Antalya city center is the stunning ancient city of Perge . Known for its magnificent amphitheater that housed a capacity of 15,000 people, the old Roman ruins date back well over 3000 years.

The Perge site is vast of ancient ruins, and with buildings like the city’s temple, crumbling school buildings, and its traditional Roman baths to marvel at, you’ll get an idea of what life was really like at Perge all those years ago.

Perhaps most interestingly, Alexander the Great was noted to have ridden horseback through Perge’s gates. Only a short 20-minute drive outside of Antalya, and accessible via the city’s tram network followed by an easy 30 minute walk, Perge is one place you cannot afford to miss.

In fact, it was probably our favorite place we visited on our trip to Antalya. Allow yourself a good 3 hours to explore it all, it’s surprisingly big.

We also recommend visiting late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day. It can get quite hot at Perge because it lies within a valley.

  • Distance from Antalya: 16 km (10 miles)
  • Travel time: 20 minutes by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: Perge is a really easy day trip to get to by hiring a car or taking a public bus. Buses go direct from Mevlana Cd-1 Antalya and depart every 20 minutes. It takes just over an hour, so it’s completely doable to do this by yourself. If you want a no fuss way to travel, you can find tours that take you to Perge, as well as to other sites nearby like Aspendos and the waterfalls. If you’re not hiring a car, this might be a good option since it’s not easy to get around these other places by public transport.

10. The Sunken City of Kekova

Sunken City of Kekova

If you’d like to get off the beaten track and see something that most have not, then simply take a boat trip from Antalya to the small Turkish island of Kekova from the coastal town of Demre.

Its waters and coast line are beautiful, however, what really steals the show is the partly sunken ruins of the ancient town of Kekova that once stood on the island.

Destroyed by an earthquake during the 2nd century, Kekova was rebuilt and remained a working dockyard until it was abandoned due to Arabic invasions.

The Turkish government have banned swimming around the ruins due to looting, however it still makes for excellent viewing with plenty of opportunities to get great pictures. You can take boat tours and kayak tours.

  • Distance from Antalya: 140 km (87 miles)
  • Best way to get there: The best way to get there is by hiring a car and driving, or you can take the bus since it goes direct from Kızılırmak Cd-5 to Demre. From Demre, the only way to see Kekova is by boat tour, which you can purchase on arrival in Demre.If you don’t want all the fuss, it’s also possible to book a tour from Antalya which picks you up and drops you off at your hotel.

Alanya castle

Alanya is another coastal city not to be missed, especially if you enjoy lazing on the beach and discovering ancient cities.

The biggest draw to Alanya is Kleopatra Beach, a 1km beach that’s named after the Queen of Egypt, who was said to have enjoyed swimming there.

The beach has soft sand and gentle waves, which make for the perfect place to relax and enjoy a day by the coast.

Another top site to check out in Alanya is Alanya Castle, which is perched on a hilltop overlooking Kleopatra Beach on one side, and the marina on the other. You can reach the castle by a short 5-minute cable car ride or you can hike or take a bus.

The castle is surrounded by a citadel filled with ancient sites and ruins, and flanked by an ancient city wall. It’s free to walk around the citadel but you have to pay to enter the castle area (which we personally don’t think is worth it – see why here ).

Alanya is a buzzing city but it feels quite relaxed compared to Antalya. Although possible to see on a day trip, you may decide you want to stay a few days!

  • Distance from Antalya: 133 km (149 miles)
  • Travel time: 2 hours by car, 3 hours by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: Since the bus takes a long time and the bus station is a distance from the center of Antalya, it’s easier to hire a car and drive.

📚 Read more: 16 Fascinating Museums in Antalya

12. Tahtali Mountain

Mount Tahtali Turkey Natural Landmark

The Tahtali Mountain, also known as Tahtali Dagi or Lycian Olympus, is one of the largest peaks in Southern Turkey. Standing mightily tall at a whopping 7,762 ft, back in Ancient Greece the mountain was called Mount Olympus.

If you’re unfamiliar with Ancient Greece and its mythology, Olympus actually means ‘home of the gods’. As we’ve pointed out, there are many ancient cities lying in ruin across this area of the country and that’s no different with Tahtali. The 2700-year-old town of Phaselis lies in ruin at the base of the mountain which you can visit for yourself.

If climbing a mountain isn’t particularly your thing whilst on holiday, luckily, there is a funicular which takes you to the summit of the peak, giving you easy access to the sublime views of the region.  

  • Distance from Antalya: 72 km (44 miles)
  • Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes by car, 1 hour 20 minutes by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: Unless you’re thinking of hiring a car to visit other day trips from Antalya, it’s probably easier to get a bus. If you don’t like figuring out bus routes, then you can always opt for a tour from Antalya. Though this does include the funicular to the peak. If you want to hike, you would find it easier to hire a car as you can park at the trailhead.

13. Kuzdere Passage Hike

say antalya travel

The Kuzdere Passage is a gorgeous hiking trail that is part of the much larger group of trails called the Lycian Way. If you’re into hiking and love to get your blood pumping, then this should be at the top of your to-do list if you’re in the area.

Under 1 hour from Antalya, it leads you through jaw-dropping valleys, past a fast river, lush green woodland, and incredible views, there really isn’t any excuse not to head out and explore on foot.

Oh – and did we mention, natural springs are conveniently located along the way for you to take a break and cool off from the scorching Turkish sun. Bliss!

  • Distance from Antalya: 46 km (28 miles)
  • Travel time: 45 minutes by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: Since it’s not too far out of Antalya, you can get a public bus to Kemer from Antalya Büyükşehir Belediyesi-2 and then take a taxi to the trailhead.

14. Aspendos & Side Old Town

Ancient City of Aspendos

If you enjoyed the historical site of Perge, then you’ll enjoy visiting Aspendos and the nearby town of Side, which are two other ancient historical landmarks from the Greco-Roman period.

Aspendos is an ancient city, though little remains of it besides a very well-preserved amphitheatre. In fact, the theatre is still used for operas and performances today.

Nearby is the town of Side, which as well as its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes, also has quaint cobbled streets and and ruins scattered around its old town.

Some notable landmarks are the Apollon Temple, Side Amphitheatre, and the remains of the Agora. The town is also lined with shops, bars, and restaurants built into the ruins, creating a unique ambiance.

  • Distance from Antalya: 48.2 km (121 miles) to Aspendos, 73.5 km to Side
  • Travel time: 45 minutes by car to Aspendos, 1 hour to Side
  • Best way to get there: Aspendos is not easy to visit using public transport since the buses run infrequently and there’s still a 50 minute walk from where the bus drops you off to the site. You should hire a car and drive yourself or book a day tour. We made the mistake of visiting Aspendos ourselves without taking a day trip from Antalya, and what a mistake that was! We took a bus from Side and then discovered there was no bus back and had to hitchhike in the dark. Don’t make the same mistake we did and book yourself a tour or get a hire car.

15. Adrasan-Suluada Island

say antalya travel

If boat trips and a golden beach in Antalya are what get you up in the morning, then you should be all over this day trip to the Adrasan-Suluada Island. Just a short 40-minute sailing away, you’ll be given access to a small but wonderful island.

Often compared to the Maldives, Suluada’s calm turquoise waters are home to a natural reef and as a result, you can have the pleasure of getting up close to a vast array of marine wildlife.

With no electricity or running water on the tiny island, it’s really only for day trips, however, if you’d like to spend multiple days there, you can stay in the nearby town of Adrasan or Olympos.

  • Distance from Antalya: 90 km (55 miles)
  • Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes by car to Adrasan, or 1 hour 50 minutes by bus, and then 45 minutes by boat
  • Best way to get there: Since its an island, the only way to get there is by boat. You will need to get to Adrasan first, where the boats depart from. You can either drive or take the bus from Antalya bus station. Buses depart every 3 hours so make sure to check the times before you go. If you’re worried about time, you can also book a tour in advance. These boat tours pick you up from your hotel and drive to Adrasan where a boat is waiting for you.

16. Goynuk Canyon

Goynuk Canyon

If you’re looking for an active day trip nearby Antalya, then Goynuk Canyon is one of the places you simply HAVE to visit. Famous across the region for its astounding beauty, a variety of activities can be done at the park utilizing the rugged terrain it sits upon.

At the heart of the canyon is a fast-flowing wild river that’s used for white-water rafting, and a little further in you can find a gorgeous waterfall and the opportunity to go on a safari tour that makes the most of the nature and beauty of the park.

You’ll need to carry some change as there is a small entrance fee to gain access to the Canyon.

  • Distance from Antalya: 36 km (22 miles)
  • Travel time: 45 minutes by car, 50 minutes by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: It’s very easy to get to by public bus. Buses leave from Kızılırmak Cd-5 every 8 minutes and take you directly to the canyon.

Antalya day trip

Kemer is an idyllic town on the coast of the Turkish Riviera that’s free and easily accessible from Antalya. Widely known for its huge stretch of pebble beach together with its large marina, Kemer is a beautiful spot if you’d like to get off the beaten track and do some sightseeing.

Behind the town, nearby, is the sumptuously green pine forests of the Beydaglari National Park, where you can go for hikes and explore the hills of southern Turkey. This is also the location of the beginning of the cable car to the summit of Tahtali Mountain (Olympos) which we touched on earlier.

Kemer’s market is also a fantastic place to source local produce, running every day from early morning to early evening.

  • Distance from Antalya: 44 km (27 miles)
  • Travel time: 45 minutes by car, 45 minutes by bus, not available by train
  • Best way to get there: There is a public bus that leaves from İl Sağlık Müdürlüğü and takes you directly to Kemer. It runs every 20 minutes and takes 45 minutes. Of course, if you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Kemer, you can book Antalya day tours to Kemer too.

FAQs About Antalya Day Trips

Here is what people usually ask us about day trips from Antalya…

How many days is enough for Antalya?

3 days is probably enough to see Antalya, but if you’re adding day trips, you might want to extend your stay to 5-7 days.

Is Cappadocia close to Antalya?

No, Cappadocia is far from Antalya by 413 km. It is best to fly to Cappadocia from Antalya as the bus takes 8.5 hours.

What is Antalya best known for?

Antalya is best known for its world-class resorts, Mediterranean beaches and historic Roman landmarks.

Is Pammukale close to Antalya?

Yes, Pammukale is about 3.5 hours from Antalya by car. The distance is 236 km.

Final Word on Day Trips from Antalya

So there you have it, our top 17 Antalya day trips! As you can see, there is a huge variety of attractions to choose from. While you might be thinking some of these are not possible as a day trip, with some careful planning and organization, anything is possible!

Is there somewhere on this list you would like to go to? Let us know in the comments.

say antalya travel

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

4 thoughts on “17 Exciting Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey!”

What the hell you cannot do Ephesus or Cappadocia or anything else involving flights on a day trip.. stupid suggestions.

Hey Karmen,

Thank you for your input. These places are quite far from Antalya, so you would have to get an early flight (the earliest one is usually around 7 to 9 AM) and then take the latest flight back. It is possible, but it might not be worth it since you won’t be able to spend a very long time in these places, especially in Cappadocia where you need several days.

Hi, I appreciate your effort to provide the valuable and very useful information, but many of these are not day trips.

Might I suggest, anything over 2hrs each way (at most) is an overnighter, and even that’s a stretch for most people spending 4 hours in transport.

Hi Sam, thank you for your comment. Yes, some of these are quite a long day trip from Antalya, however they are all doable in a day. It’s quite common to see day tours to Pamukkale, Ephesus and Cappadocia from Antalya for example. While there is a lot of travel involved, it’s great for people who are short on time and don’t have a long time to spend in Turkey. You are right that anywhere over 2 hours drive is best seen as an overnight stay and that’s how we would prefer to see some of these places, but if you are short on time, it’s totally possible to visit these destinations as a day trip.

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4 Days in Antalya – Best Antalya Itinerary

4 days in Antalya may or may not be enough to discover the beauties of this famous resort on the Turkish Riviera.

In my opinion, four days is the minimum for the best Antalya itinerary, enough to see many beautiful places in the city and nearby.

The best Antalya itinerary should combine the moments spent on the beaches in front of luxury hotels with those in which you can discover local life and culture.

You can do this on your own or by taking one of the most popular Antalya tours.

Antalya is one of the most popular destinations on the Mediterranean coast, with over 300 sunny days a year.

The resort at the foot of the Taurus Mountains offers many things for couples, groups of friends, and families with children.

In this article, I want to dispel the myth that a holiday in Antalya means 5-star all-inclusive resorts.

Indeed, it could be an option, but you’re in the right place if you genuinely wish to discover the city. There are so many excursions in Antalya worth taking.

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

How to get to Antalya

  • By car – you can get to Antalya by car if you live in a close enough country. However, I would recommend this option only if you plan a road trip in Turkey , which involves several destinations in this country, not just a trip to Antalya. Thus, your car will be handy for you. Otherwise, I recommend the plane, especially if you only want to spend 4 days in Antalya.
  • By plane – is the most convenient way to get to Antalya. There are plenty of direct flights to Antalya from most major European cities. As an idea, the price for a plane ticket to Antalya starts at 150 Euro round trip. The airport in Antalya is located only 15 minutes away from the city center.

What I use every time I travel:

  • To book hotels: Booking.com
  • To book tours:  GetYourGuide.com

top things to do in antalya | antalya tourist attractions

Where to stay in Antalya

Before discussing the things to do in Antalya, we must decide where to stay in Antalya and what choices we have regarding locations.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, don’t forget that the real Antalya vacation is outside the resort and is well worth discovering.

However, we must admit that Antalya is one of the top destinations for 5-star hotels, and the services are extraordinary.

The best hotels in Antalya for each budget:

  • budget: 
  • Tekeli Konaklari   – A hotel located in the old town, Kaleici, only 3 minutes away from the beach. It has traditionally decorated rooms and a large swimming pool in the center; breakfast is included.
  • GRAND MIR’AMOR HOTEL & Spa – All Inclusive   –  The second option for a slightly lower budget for Antalya is an all-inclusive resort located one hour from the city center but close to Camyuva beach. The resort is huge, and beautiful and has three swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center, and many other facilities.
  • Akra Hotel   – Although it’s part of the average budget category for hotels in Antalya, Akra Hotel is a 5-star resort near Lara beach. You will have a sensational view of the sea and the Taurus Mountains from the room. The resort is perfect for spending 4 days in Antalya, having 4 swimming pools, bar, fitness, spa, and the rest I will let you discover. Check prices and availability here 
  • Sealife Family Resort Hotel   – an all-inclusive budget option that offers all the facilities for a dream vacation in Antalya but also a direct view to Konyaalti beach and quick access to it
  • luxury: 
  • Lara Barut Collection-Ultra All Inclusive   – 8 à la carte restaurants, 3 swimming pools, spa with Turkish baths, beach, and fitness center. Should I continue? Lara Barut is an accommodation in Turkey Antalya that you can’t go wrong with
  • Bayou Villas-Ultra All Inclusive   – Although it’s not a beachfront hotel, it’s a new, ultra-luxurious resort, a complex of ultra-modern villas with swimming pools and superb design that reminds me of Bali. It’s the most expensive accommodation in Antalya on this list, but ideal for a few unforgettable days in Antalya or a fairytale honeymoon

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

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4 days in Antalya | best antalya itinerary

4 Days in Antalya – Best Antalya itinerary

4 days in antalya – day 1 , visit the old town – kaleiçi.

Now that we’ve determined your accommodation options, it’s time to discuss the places to visit in Antalya.

It’s best to start your holiday in Antalya with a walk through the old town , Kaleici. The cobbled streets will take you through whitewashed houses with red roofs, palm trees, ruins of fortified walls, colorful bazaars, and stalls with oranges and pomegranates.

The streets of Kaleici are over two millennia old and represent a combination of two architectural styles, Greek and Ottoman.

You need about 2-3 hours to explore them properly and maybe even more if you want to discover fascinating details.

top things to do in antalya | antalya tourist attractions

streets of Kaleici | 4 days in Antalya

top things to do in antalya | antalya tourist attractions

One of the buildings in the old town that deserves to be added to your Antalya itinerary is the Tekeli Mehmet Pasha Mosque.

It was built under the Ottoman Empire in the late 18th century and later restored in 1940. Equally imposing is the Clock Tower, the only survivor of the more than 80 towers surrounding the city.

READ ALSO: 14 Best photo spots in Istanbul – Instagrammable places in Istanbul

top things to do in antalya | antalya tourist attractions

Take a walk through the old port | Best Antalya itinerary

During the Byzantine period, Antalya was one of the most important port cities on the Mediterranean Sea.

The port near Kaleici used to be the city’s main port until the twentieth century. Now, however, it’s more of a promenade area, with several restaurants, cafes, and even observation points that reveal a fabulous view.

It’s a great place to experience Antalya nightlife, so make room for it during the 4 days in Antalya. 

The port is located in a beautiful landscape, with steep coasts, palm trees, and the Mediterranean Sea’s turquoise water. From here, boat trips generally depart, inviting you to discover the city’s beauties on the water in the best excursions in Antalya.

Therefore, if you’re searching for the best day trips in Antalya , you might want to check the old port.

An observation point to visit in Antalya is the glass terrace that offers you a complete panorama of the port, the sea, and the Taurus Mountains in the background.

You can get here by crossing Kecili Park, with its artesian fountains and wooden sculptures, or by taking the elevator if you are at the bottom.

Check out these amazing tours in Antalya ⇓

top things to do in antalya | antalya tourist attractions

The old port | Best Antalya itinerary

top things to do in antalya | antalya tourist attractions

Admire Hadrian’s Gate

Continue your day in Antalya with a walk to this fantastic ancient structure.

Three marble carved arches with floral motifs and a few imposing towers are all that remain of the imposing Hadrian’s Gate. It’s located on Atatürk Boulevard, right next to Kaleici.

Hadrian’s Gate was built to mark the visit of the Roman emperor Adrian or Hadrian in 130 A.D. and is practically the only Gate still standing from the Roman Empire.

It’s a beautiful piece of ancient architecture that you can not miss on your walk through the old center, especially as it seems to transition between two worlds, old and new, past and future.

You must add Hadrian’s Gate to your Antalya sightseeing tours, especially since you can visit it for free.

READ ALSO: Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey. The ultimate guide

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

Hadrian’s Gate | 4 days in Antalya

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

Visit Karaalioglu Park

Also, next to the old town is the largest park in Antalya, with an impressive area of 140,000 square meters.

Continue your Antalya tours with an afternoon in this park, walking the alleys shaded by palm trees in the garden, and enjoy the views of the park’s observation points.

Karaalioglu Park was built in 1943 and has since become an important social center, mainly during Ramadan when all kinds of dinners are organized, after sunset.

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

Karaalioglu Park | 4 days in Antalya

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

Go shopping in the Bazaar | 4 days in Antalya

End your first out of the 4 days in Antalya with a shopping session. You can’t miss the Turkish bazaars, whether you’re on holiday in Antalya or any other city in Turkey.

They are packed with all kinds of products, and you can find beautiful souvenirs, from pillowcases and magnets to fragrant soaps or all sorts of spices.

Don’t forget to try various Turkish sweets, especially Turkish delight, a marvel.

In addition to authentic products, there are all kinds of objects copied by luxury brands. I suggest you avoid those.

The sellers are very kind in general and offer you tea and the possibility to negotiate the price of the products you want to buy. Shopping in Antalya is an experience!

best places to visit in antalya, turkey

Turkish delight (lokum) | Best Antalya itinerary

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

4 Days in Antalya – DAY 2

Go to the beach.

A trip to Antalya would be incomplete without the famous blue flag beaches. Some would agree that Konyaalti is the best beach in Antalya.

It is a long beach, stretching over 8 km, surrounded by luxury hotels. Konyaalti is one of the city’s public beaches and can become extremely crowded in the high season.

Although it’s a beautiful beach, don’t expect the finest sand because it’s sand mixed with gravel. You will find many restaurants, cafes, terraces, and places where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas along the beach.

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

Konyaalti | 4 days in Antalya

Unlike Konyaalti, you will find the fine sand you probably want in Lara. Konyaalti Beach and Lara have a blue flag, meaning that the water is excellent quality and safe to swim in here.

While Konyaalti is located west of the city, Lara is in the opposite direction, in the east.

The water is calmer and a little warmer on Lara beach, making it one of the best things to do in Antalya for families. Of the 15 km that the beach has, only two are public, the rest belonging to the top hotels and ultra-inclusive resorts in Antalya.

Besides the two, Antalya has other more secluded and less crowded beaches, but also much more distant.

So, if you have more than 4 days in Antalya and you want to spend a few hours on a less populated beach in Antalya, consider the following options:

  • Moonlight Beach
  • Patara Beach

READ ALSO: 21 Best things to do in Istanbul

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

Visit the Antalya Museum

If you spend your day number 2 on Konyaalti Beach, you could also visit the Antalya Museum in the immediate vicinity.

One of the best things to do in Antalya with kids is to visit the Antalya Museum. It includes 14 halls with exhibits, primarily archaeological discoveries made in the nearby historic cities.

More than 5,000 pieces are waiting to be discovered by museum visitors.

They cover several periods in the history of the place, from prehistory to the Ottoman period. We are talking about Neanderthal skeletons, statuettes found in the ancient city of Perge , and portraits carved in marble.

Best Antalya Itinerary – DAY 3

Düde n waterfalls | best antalya itinerary.

I wrote waterfalls and not waterfall because I’m about to mention two big waterfalls formed on the same river, the Duden river.

The waterfalls are a few km away from each other and are called Upper Düden and Lower Düden . Visiting these waterfalls is one of my favorite excursions in Antalya.

Lower Düden flows directly into the Mediterranean Sea and is 40 meters high.

You can reach the waterfall by passing through a beautifully landscaped park with lawn, flowers, seating areas, playgrounds for children, and even a zip line over the river.

The waterfall can be admired from two perspectives, either from Duden Park or even from the water, in a tour that you can start in the old port .

Visiting the waterfall is one of the best things to do in Antalya because it is just so gorgeous!

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

Lower Düden | 4 days in Antalya

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

Equally beautiful are the waterfalls formed much further north, about 20 km away. Upper Duden Falls is also known as Alexander Falls because it is said that Alexander the Great gave water to his horse here.

Besides waterfalls, you can walk in the alleys and enter the caves formed behind the waterfall.

In summer, the place becomes crowded, and many people choose to spend the whole day inside the park.

READ ALSO: Top 15 places to visit in Cappadocia, Turkey

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

Upper Düden | 4 days in Antalya

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary - duden falls

Enjoy the view from Tünektepe Teleferik

The landscape of Antalya is so beautiful that it is worth admiring from above.

You can take the Tünektepe cable , which reaches 618 meters above sea level and have a whole panorama of Antalya . It’s definitely something you must add to your 4 days in Antalya itinerary.

The cable car stretches over 1700 meters, includes 36 cabins, and can carry 1200 people per hour.

It’s not allowed to bring food from outside, but there are restaurants and cafes at the top of the mountain, and the panorama is unbeatable.

To get to the cable car’s base, you must go to Konyaalti beach, Sarısu station.

This could also be one of the best things to do in Antalya for families, I’m sure the kids would love to come here.

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

Tünektepe Teleferik | 4 days in Antalya

Best Antalya Itinerary – DAY 4

River rafting | best antalya itinerary.

Beaches, walks, and relaxation. Is the adrenaline ingredient missing on your 4 days in Antalya itinerary?

No, because the adrenaline is at its highest on the rivers of Antalya. Water sports enthusiasts can go river rafting on the Köprüçay, Manavgat, Dim, Duden, and Alara rivers. The most sought-after is river rafting in the Köprülü canyon .

The Antalya tours that offer such an experience in this city have all the necessary equipment, from a life jacket, helmet, oars, and even lunch.

You only need to bring some joy! Prices start at € 20 per person.

If you want to have memories of and take pictures, make sure you have waterproof photo equipment because it’s impossible not to get wet otherwise.

4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

River rafting on Düden river | 4 days in Antalya

Places to visit near Antalya

The ancient city of perge.

Archaeological sites cannot be missing from the list of places to visit during your 4 days in Antalya.

There are various excursions in Antalya that you can sign in to so you can see these places.

Located 18 km from the city, Perge is an ancient fortress perched on a hill, the former capital of the Pamphylia region.

Perge is one of the oldest cities belonging to the Roman Empire. Studies show that over 200,000 people used to live here.

The most important buildings in Perge are the theater, the stadium, two basilicas, and the agora.

And if we talk about the degree of conservation, the amphitheater would probably receive the first place on the podium. It is enormous, with a capacity of 15 000 seats, and very well preserved.

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

Day trip to the ruins of Termessos

Built at the foot of the Gulluk Mountains at an altitude of 1050 meters, Termessos is the ideal day trip from Antalya.

The ancient city is now called Termessos National Park , but it’s more of an open-air museum.

We might know many things about Termessos, but one crucial detail is that it was well defended against Alexander the Great, and it was part of the Roman Empire.

The best-preserved elements of the whole complex are the city walls, the Hadrian’s Gate, the cisterns, the theater, and the agora.

You can go to Termessos by car, located at a distance of about 45 km from the city. However, it’s best to come here on a private guided tour because only then will you find fascinating details about the history of these ruins.

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

Ruins of Termessos | 4 days in Antalya

The Land of Legends | Best Antalya itinerary

Antalya has its own Disneyland! Located 30 km from the city, The Land of Legends is an amusement park that can successfully compete for the most beautiful amusement park in the world. Everything looks like fairytales. The gorgeous castle is the main attraction.

You can come here for shopping, perfect dining experiences, the amusement park, or even stay in this beautiful resort .

The Water Park and the Adventure Park are huge and have plenty of water slides, roller coasters, and other attractions. 

Over 2 million people come here yearly, and it’s considered one of the best things to do in Antalya with kids.

You can come to The Land of Legends by car. The complex has a vast parking lot with over 1300 spaces.

best places to visit in antalya, turkey - 4 days in antalya

The Land of Legends | 4 days in Antalya

the land of legends | 4 days in antalya best antalya itinerary

Best things to know before visiting Antalya

The best antaya sightseeing tours.

In addition to the days spent at the beach, a vacation in Antalya also means fun entwined with discovering tourist attractions in the city.

You can best do this on an organized tour. From my point of view, these are the must-do day trips in Antalya:

  • city tour, with a visit to the waterfalls and the cable car
  • day trip to the surrounding ancient cities
  • adrenaline rush in Koprulu Canyon: rafting and zip line
  • jeep safari in the Taurus Mountains

Best time to visit Antalya

Spring and autumn are the ideal times to check out the most beautiful places to visit in Antalya if you want to avoid the crowds and heat.

June, July, and August are the hottest months in Antalya and the busiest.

The weather in Antalya is also pleasant from November to March, with an average temperature of 10-20 degrees, but it’s not suitable for swimming.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Antalya would be the end of spring and the beginning of autumn.

  • Is Antalya worth visiting?

The answer is obviously yes, considering how beautiful the resort is and how much it offers, including the famous Antalya tours.

Antalya has something for every type of tourist and even for every kind of budget, so it would be good to add it to the list of places to visit if you haven’t already. I hope this 4 days in Antalya itinerary will be helpful to you.

  • How to get around in Antalya

To use public transport in Antalya, you need AntalyaKart, which you can buy either from the airport or various city kiosks.

You will only pay the card’s price once, and then you have to recharge it.

You can also travel by taxi, electric scooters, or rent a bike or car for the entire duration of your stay. On average, renting a car per day in Antalya is $ 40.

Taking a taxi in Antalya is a perfect option. The cost of a taxi in Antalya depends a lot on the distance. The taxi price is generally reasonable in Antalya and other touristic places in Turkey.

For example, for 10 km, expect to pay $5 on average.

Best places to eat in Antalya

In terms of gastronomy, Antalya is what you need. Here you will find absolutely everything your heart desires, from seafood, vegetables, barbecue, kebap, and other Turkish dishes, to international cuisine.

There are places for all budgets, so I recommend you not necessarily go for the all-inclusive option. Accommodations with breakfast in Antalya included could be a good option.

There are a lot of places where you can eat well, but these are the best restaurants in Antalya in my opinion

  • Yemenli Meyhanesi
  • Kaleici Meyhanesi Konyaalti
  • Fatma Sultan Restaurant (Turk MutfagI)
  • Ayar Meyhanesi
  • Hayat Restaurant
  • Is Antalya safe?

I can confirm from my experience that I had no problems in Antalya. It’s a very touristic city, and the people are very civilized.

Minor incidents can occur, as in every place, but overall you can walk without problems almost anywhere and at whatever time you want.

Take the safety measures you would have taken in any other site considered safe, and everything will be ok. So, the answer to the question “Is Antalya safe?” is yes.

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Is Antalya Worth Visiting?

Is Antalya Worth Visiting?

November 18, 2020 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

Is Antalya worth visiting? If I’m honest, I tried not to dwell on this question too much before I arrived in the city—which I felt obliged to visit, as a travel blogger—myself.

I’m glad I didn’t. From the stylish environs of what I now consider the best boutique hotel in Turkey, to the charming cobbles of one of the world’s most underrated old towns, Antalya is so much more than the Russian-filled resort town you might be expecting if you believe everything you read online.

Over the next several paragraphs I’ll expand on both my esoteric impressions of Antalya, as well as the nitty-gritty of traveling in the city, particularly what to do in Antalya. I hope you won’t write Antalya off until you’ve read what I have to say!

Love at First Sight

Antalya was a breath of fresh air I simply didn’t expect. From the moment I walked through the gates of the old town, I felt charmed and at ease; I regretted not having booked three or four nights at the stylish White Garden Hotel , where I immediately felt foolish for only have reserved two. Have you ever turned up somewhere and realized it was exactly where you needed to be? Antalya was that place for me.

Part of this—my intense satisfaction, I mean—was likely due to my own low expectations. In addition to what I’d read on the internet, many well-meaning Turkish people I met advised me that Antalya was more perfunctory than pleasurable. The highest praise came from one of the front desk attendants at my hotel in Istanbul, who found himself impressed by the wide array of…companions on offer in Antalya.

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Things to Do in Antalya: The Good, Bad and the Ugly

Kaleiçi’s panacea.

I’m not being dramatic when I say that the old town of Kaleiçi was everything I needed. And not in terms of its attractions, necessarily, even if landmarks like the Marina and Hadrian’s Gate were perfectly charming. So much of my time in Turkey prior to Antalya (in particular the crappy hotels I chose in Pamukkale and Oludeniz) had been utterly lacking in comfort, fun and flair—Kaleiçi has all those things in spades.

A matter of taste

Is Antalya worth visiting? Certainly, if eating delicious meals al fresco in cute restaurants is your thing it will be. In particular, I loved my lunch at Balikci Meyhanesi , though I didn’t have a bad meal in Kaleiçi. Or a bad glass of wine: This is definitely paradise for day drinkers, to say nothing of how relaxing it can be to end the day with a glass or white or red.

Cast of characters

Like many other old towns around the world, Kaleiçi is home to quirky, idiosyncratic local people who almost seem pasted into the picture. From the man playing American folk songs on his guitar near the marina, to a quiet burqa-wearing Western woman who watched one evening’s sunset from my hotel’s rooftop with me, the characters I observed in Antalya were at least as memorable as the scenes they emerged from.

Furry friends

And not just human characters, either. A friendly street cat whom I was told to call “Jennifer” sat in my lap during the entirety of my dinner at scenic MARCO Teras Cafe —and she didn’t beg for food once! She simply seemed to want to be held and touched, to have a few moments of genuine companionship instead of transactional food stealing. With the year I’ve had, I could certainly empathize!

Scam or survival mechanism?

While walking through the old city, I locked eyes with a handsome man named Thurgood (or whatever the Turkish equivalent to it is); he invited me inside his shop for a cup of tea, and to attempt to sell me overpriced nougat candies. I can’t feign outrage about this—my reasons for stopping in my tracks were as unscrupulous as his for stopping me—but I will say that Antalya is full of people seeking such transactional interactions, to the disappointment (I assume) of Jennifer the Cat.

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Is Cirali Worth Visiting?

I only had time to enjoy one of the many day trips from Antalya; I chose Cirali, because it paired a gorgeous (or so I’d heard) beach with the ruins of Olympos, and a so-called eternal flame that made me more nostalgic about the late 80s than excited for my late October 2020 adventure to see it. In fact, I ended up forgetting all about the eternal flame; I only made it halfway through the Olympos ruins, on account of having been sun poisoned while basking in the rays on Cirali Beach.

It’s difficult to comment on Cirali Beach objectively. Certainly, it served my purpose, which was to enjoy a full day of rest and relaxation halfway through a trip mostly devoid of it up to that point. The water was rather beautiful, given that Cirali (like many of the other best beaches in Turkey ) has a rock bottom, rather than a sand one. The ruins of Olympos themselves are underwhelming and in a state of disrepair, though I can’t comment on the flame for reasons I mentioned earlier.

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FAQ About Traveling in Antalya

What is antalya known for.

To many travelers these days, Antalya is known primarily as a resort city filled with Russians. Historically, however, it was notable as a favorite holiday spot for Mr. Ataturk, the beloved founder of the modern Turkish Republic.

Why is Antalya so popular?

Historically, Antalya derived a great deal of its popularity from its associate with Ataturk, who loved it for its beautiful geography and relative convenience to most Turks. These days, Russian travelers in particular flock to Antalya due to an abundance of nonstop flights and a large number of high-quality hotels.

Which is the best area to stay in Antalya?

I personally love to stay in Kaleiçi, Antalya’s coast-hugging old town about 15 minutes from both the bus station and the airport. However, many beach resorts are located outside the city center, notably just west of it near Konyaalti Beach.

The Bottom Line

Is Antalya worth visiting? I know you’re probably sick of reading that question by this point—I apologize for the repetition. However, it’s important that I state my point—Antalya is absolutely worth visiting, no matter what you expect of the destination—emphatically. Without being hyperbolic, I can safely say that Antalya was the biggest (and best) surprise of all the places I visited on my latest trip to Turkey . At a bare minimum, I recommend you spend a couple of nights here, and longer if you can manage it. Certainly, I wish I had devoted more time to Antalya, Turkey if only to savor the ambiance of the wonderful hotel I chose! Want to feel as delightful after your trip as I did after mine? Hire me to put the ultimate Turkey itinerary together!

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Never Ending Footsteps

How to Spend Four Splendid Days in Antalya, Turkey

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Antalya is one of the Crown Jewels of the Mediterranean Sea and the perfect place to live the slow life. One of my favorite destinations in Turkey and a place I am dying to go back to.

Shimmering waters greet you with stunning hills in the backdrop. The old town is steeped in history and is exceptionally charming. Antalya’s surrounding areas are filled with ancient Roman ruins that rival anywhere outside Italy itself, fantastic beaches, and water sports galore. As if this place didn’t have enough going for it, the cuisine is unbeatable.

Many expats have chosen to make this city their home and after being here it is no surprise why. Antalya is an ideal place to stay busy with activities or do absolutely nothing at all. Over the two weeks I did a whole lot of both and enjoyed immensely. The whole energy of the city is simply laid back and upbeat and what makes this place what it is is the people. From smiling shopkeepers, helpful strangers, incredible chefs and musicians and new drinking buddies, Antalyans sure know how to make a visitor feel welcome and the legendary Turkish hospitality is on full display. 

In my opinion four days is a great amount of time to spend exploring Antalya and the surrounding areas. If you want to spend even more time here I would say definitely go for it but for sure not less! 

A typical Turkish breakfast

Day 1: The Town

Are you up bright and early because you are excited as all hell to explore? Well, you should be, because the first thing that you need to do is start with a traditional Turkish breakfast to fuel up for the day.

Because these breakfasts? They’re incredible.

Turkish breakfasts might be the tastiest breakfasts you can have. If you have taken my suggestion on accommodation below, feel free to have all your breakfasts there as the food is amazing, but if not then I have a great alternative at Sirali Kebap. With a spread so large it is likely to fall off of the table, you might have a hard time eating throughout the day. Did I mention it has a stunning view of the Mediterranean to boot? 

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After you are thoroughly stuffed, head down and explore the old town and there is no better place to than start at Hadrian’s gate. A three arched feat of engineering was built almost 2000 years ago and is still as beautiful as the day it was erected. 

Mosey down the cobblestone streets and take it all in. Not only are there tons of cute little souvenir stores, cafes, and shops, but also beautiful pieces of history. Some of the highlights include the Kesik Minare, the lone structure standing from a 2nd century building that flip flopped between a between a church and mosque over history depending on the occupying force at an given time, the Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque, which is beautifully minimal and an oasis of peace from the bustling streets surrounding it, as well as the marina which has fabulous views of not just the ocean but the surrounding hills that provide a stunning backdrop to the picture. 

For lunch stop at one of my favorites, Ayar Meyhanesi, an unpretentious seafood place with relaxed vibes and great grub. Let’s be honest, being a seaside paradise, you are going to be eating a lot of seafood, and out here that is simply a treat. The octopus and shrimp are the stars here. Get the platter to enjoy everything that the ocean has to offer.

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When you have finished your meal, grab a bus or Uber and head to the other side of town to ride the cable car. I am a firm believer that the best way to see a city is to find the highest point that you can and look down on it from above. I feel like it just puts everything into perspective and gives you a greater sense of the city, and there is nowhere that is better suited for that purpose than the Tunektepe Teleferik or Antalya Cable Car. Going up a mountain just on the outskirts of town and with unbelievable views of the town and sea below. At the top there is a cafe where you can watch the setting sun before you go back down. 

After coming back to the old town stop and get some food and wine at No.14 Kaleici. The mezze are superb and the live music keeps the vibe going till 1. 

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Day 2- Olympos

The town is fantastic and there is always something to do, but you came to the beach to go to the beach, so let’s get going! Although there is Lara beach in town, the best stretches of shore are out of the city.

My recommendation for a day out for fun in the sun is going to the sleepy town of Olympos. Now I admit, it doesn’t have the powdery white sand of the Maldives or Bahamas, but the vibe is just right and there is so much to see and do in the area I have decided to classify it as a must visit. The backdrop and deep blue waters aren’t too shabby either. You could even spend a few days there in one of their iconic treehouses like I did, and have the absolute best time. 

This place is about 80 KM out of the city so you are going to want to get an early start, so have a quick breakfast at your hotel and hit the road. The easiest and most hassle free way to get there is by private taxi. You can get your hotel to make the reservation for you and they will ensure you get the best price. You can also rent a car if you have an international license and want to take on the gorgeous seaside drive on your own. Besides being more comfortable, these options will allow you to come back at your own time as well instead of being dependent on the timing of public transportation.

 If you would like to take public transportation, go to the bus station and look for buses going in the direction of Kumluca-Fethiye and get off at the Olympos stop. If in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask someone as people are extremely eager to help. The buses leave quite frequently, and they take about two hours to arrive, but the journey is part of the adventure! Looking at the cliffs, sparkling water and clear blue skies will entrance you and you might even reach before you are ready! 

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When you get to Olympos, there is a small entrance fee that you will have to pay to enter this ancient city. The place is much more untouched compared to other beaches in the area and that is part of its charm. No chain hotels or restaurants here, just mom and pop guesthouses and mid-sized bars and restaurants. The reason for the lack of development is that this is a protected area due to the endangered sea turtles that lay their eggs in the pebbles from May to October. The government tries to track where they are and surround the areas with wire, but they sometimes miss things so make sure to watch your step. 

Take a short dip and then head in to have lunch and map out the rest of your day. My favorite restaurant is the Dione Restaurant Beach Bar. While the most meals in Turkey I have had have been excellent, I have usually been disappointed by the hummus which seems to be on most menus but has nothing on its eastern neighbors. Nevertheless, this was the best I had in Turkey. The staff are also fantastic and is located right on the beach, so you don’t have to go far.

After lunch the world is your oyster. I would say that usually the ruins of the old town are a must see but as we will be seeing a myriad of ancient ruins tomorrow, you can decide if that is something that you need to see. 

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The other item that is on the top of almost everybody’s Olympos list is to see the undying fires of Chimera. Again, you can decide if you want to go see it but I will say that it is not for everyone.

First of all, it is about an hour and half walk uphill from the beach and the same time back and it is not easy at all. When you reach the top, you will see several somewhat small flames that are burning on the face of a rock. The flames never go out due to a natural gas leak.

While it is a super cool natural phenomenon, it is not very visually exciting and will take a minimum of three-and-a-half hours of your day to visit. Since you only have one day here, unless you are looking for a trek I would advise you to give it a miss. 

There are tons of activities that can be organized by the local guest houses that are tons of fun. I went on a boat tour with some friends and had a blast visiting different coves, snorkeling, and engaging in general merriment. This is definitely a great option for you.

If that doesn’t appeal to you there is so much more to do. You can also find kayaking, scuba, yoga, rock climbing, paragliding, bungee jumping, and many more things I’m sure I’m forgetting.

Or, just sit on the beach, look out at the ocean, grab a book and do absolutely nothing, you do you, no judgments here! If you cannot find anything to do until you go back in the evening, or get bored, I hate to say it, but you might be the problem. 

When your activities are finished, get your tired and tanned butt off the beach and with the sun setting have an early dinner before you get back. Walk over to Kadir’s Tree House, probably one of the most innovative hotels/hostels I have ever seen. Even though you won’t have time to stay in one of these amazing treehouses you can eat in one. There are two bars and two restaurants on the premises. The food is pretty good but not incredible nonetheless the atmosphere is outstanding, and the beer is cold. You will find it extremely hard to pry yourself away to get back to Antalya, but you need to because tomorrow is another full day!

Pamukkale travertines

Day 3 – Hierapolis Ruins/ Pamukkale

Today is going to be a long day but so, so worth it. We are going to visit one of the best-preserved Greek ruins in the world and a place in Pamukkale that looks almost out of this world.

One of the most popular tours to take from Antalya itself, you can find tours either in tour offices in town, or through online platforms such as Get Your Guide. If you go with the tours advertised on the street, you will be able to score a much better rate but it’s very hit or miss as some of the more unscrupulous companies will promise you anything to get your business. The online tour providers cost more but you can read reviews and pick the experience that best suits you. It really just depends on what your priorities are. 

The Get Your Guide tour we did was fantastic, with amazing guides, a smooth ride and sumptuous lunch.

They do drop you at a couple overpriced souvenir shops during the ride but that is par for the course when it comes to group tours worldwide and there wasn’t any added pressure to buy. If you are more of a DIY traveler like I usually am, you can self-drive. I didn’t do that here, as with the car rental, entrance fees, and gas you will end up spending even more money, plus the whole day trip takes around 10- 12 hours and that is a lot of driving for one day on top of walking around the sites. I undoubtedly enjoyed the naps in the bus on the way back instead of fighting back my eyelids.

It is about a three-hour car ride to get to Pamukkale which is the first stop of the day. If Instagram or Tiktok recommends you any travel videos at all, you will almost certainly have seen these dreamlike pools. Not just famous in the modern day but even in the ancient world as it is said that even Cleopatra herself came to take a dip in these cooling pools and test their mineral healing properties. Very cool to see and swim in but the time I was there was near the end of peak season, so the crowds were still somewhat overwhelming, but still worthy of being a bucket list item.

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Next, you will go over just nearby, to the ancient city of Hierapolis. When I say that I was amazed at the scale of the city, that is no exaggeration. Obviously it’s a sliver of a shadow of its former magnificent self, but the ruins are intact enough that you can still see, feel and be able to picture how life used to be here.

I’m usually not a tour guide person but I was glad to be with a group here as there was so much interesting information, I would have missed out on just wandering around by myself. The main road and massive theater were by far the highlights for me. 

Take a nap on your way back and get ready for dinner. Seraser was probably the best food I had during the whole trip, everything was amazing, but the beef was the star. The carpaccio is melt-in-your-mouth delicious and the wellington would make even Gordan Ramsey say something nice. 

Tomorrow is a relaxing day so feel free to enjoy yourself tonight. I personally love Holly Stone for drinks and live music, but if you are into more house music then Up Shot bar is the place to be.

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Day 4 – Relaxation

Last night was fun and you might need a bigger than normal breakfast at the Pablito Bistro. The spread is bigger than you can probably eat but give it your best shot! After that head over to a traditional Hammam spa to get in a nice steam and sweat out the rest of the wine and Raki. Most people just think of Istanbul when they think of Turkish spas, but Antalya has some hidden gems.

 If you are looking for a more private and luxurious experience, then I loved going to Sefa Hamam Spa. The massage and spa therapists are world class and I left refreshed and smoother than a wet hard-boiled egg. The rooms are works of art in and of themselves and are the ideal backdrop for the treatments.

It seems like most of the massage therapists here are male, so if that is not something that you are comfortable with feel free to look elsewhere, as there are many fantastic venues around. If you are looking for a more public, cheaper, or culturally immersive experience, the Demirhan Bath has exactly what you are looking for. A place that feels stuck in time with a much more local vibe, rub shoulders with everyday Antalyans and get clean.

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After that head to my favorite beach that is not actually a beach to get some lunch and much needed vitamin D.

Mermerli Beach is a private beach located right in the heart of the old town. It is a private beach, but the entrance is pretty affordable. It is less of a beach and more of a pebbled natural jetty. It is attached to the restaurant up top that you have to go through, and they provide everyone with a chair and umbrella.

Not only is it a perfect place to dive straight into the water without getting sandy, you can also order food and drinks that will be brought directly to your table; what other beach does that?

Swim and then eat, then sunbathe, or sunbathe swim and eat, do whatever feels right in the moment. I probably have never been as relaxed and pampered on any beach as this one.

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When you are sufficiently roasted and stuffed, head on over to the Antalya Archaeology Museum, one of the largest in Turkey. With 13 exhibition halls chock full of beautiful and fascinating artifacts, you could spend hours here just getting lost in the history. I particularly loved going through the mosaic exhibition.

As the sun sets, end your trip to this picturesque city with a shopping and street food spree at the nearby bazaars. Buy stuff for your walls, your family, your friends, and your dogs back home — they have affordable goodies for everyone. Try Balik Ekmek while you’re there (the ubiquitous fish sandwich), Lahmacun (Turkey’s delicious answer to thin crust pizza), and Adana kebab (smokey and one of the best uses of beef I can think of). 

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Where to Stay

If you want to make full use of your time in Antalya, staying in the old town of Kaleici is a must. This place oozes charm, is centrally located, near all the shops and restaurants and is home to the best hotels in the city. And best among them in my humble opinion is the White Garden Hotel . Smack dab in the middle of all the action but still maintaining a serene atmosphere, the White Garden Hotel is ideal for a relaxing vacation or a romantic getaway. Beautiful heritage style rooms and an incredible Turkish breakfast, what more could you ask for? 

As with the vast majority of places the best time to visit is during the shoulder season. This would be around April- May and October- November. This is when the sun is shining, the summer rush of tourists are gone but the heat is at a manageable level. I visited during late August/ early December and while I had a blast it was truly sweltering, and as with anywhere near the sea the humidity only exasperated the problem, and the crowds were a little large for my liking. Nonetheless it was amazing weather for getting in the water.

The winter is a little cold for beach and water activities so while it is still worth traveling to for the old town, you will be missing out on a huge part of the Antalya experience. It is also a little more rainy this time of year so take that with a grain of salt. On the plus side, rates for hotels and tours will be much more affordable than they already are.

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How to Get Around 

Getting around Antalya is pretty easy. Buy an AntalyaKart card for access on the trams and buses, these are really cheap, and you can top up at many stores or at any tram stop. The tram is also the most convenient and cheapest way to get into the city from the airport or bus station. If your destination is anywhere on the tram line, I would highly recommend using this method of transportation as it is clean, moves fast and comes every few minutes. 

The only problem is that it doesn’t go to many parts of the city and for the other areas your options are pretty limited to buses and Uber. The buses are also nice, but the only problem is they are not very regular but if you don’t mind waiting they are a great alternative. 

When all else fails Uber is your friend, I wouldn’t try hopping in a normal taxi as many don’t have the meter running and I can almost guarantee you the price will not be the local one. I traveled over a month in Turkey and while being amazed at the hospitality of the Turks, that does not extend to taxi drivers apparently. 

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Tips and Tricks for Visiting Antalya 

  • I say this for almost everywhere but buy a sim card! Trying to figure out where you’re going without Google Maps is not fun. Sim cards are easy to find and can be bought anywhere. Uber is also very helpful here so being able to access Wi-Fi can be a lifesaver.
  • Learn a little bit of the local language to ingratiate yourself with the locals. Turkish people are renowned for their hospitality and most people you encounter will have some level of English. However, trying or even butchering a little bit of their local language will go a long way. Merhaba is the word for hello while thank you is teşekkürler (Teh-sheh-kull-erhz). It looks intimidating, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it!
  • Ask before you take someone’s photo, especially women, as many Turkish people are not comfortable with their photos being taken by strangers (something we have in common).
  • If you are buying something in the local market, just assume the price is around half of what they are trying to sell it for and bargain hard! They expect it but make sure you’re still friendly and don’t take the negotiation process too personally.
  • Clothes in local retailers (not the open-air markets) are extremely cheap and fantastic quality as well. I stocked up on so much while I was there, and it was a great place to refresh my wardrobe during long term travel.
  • If visiting a local mosque, make sure to respect customs and take off your shoes before entering. You’ll need cover your head, shoulders, and knees if you are a woman.

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And That Was Antalya!

Antalya is one of my favorite places to visit and the kind of place you can keep coming back to again and again.

Whether as a base during in depth travel of southern Turkey or a place to come for a cheeky holiday weekend, there is never a wrong reason to come here.

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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United Airlines expects busiest spring break ever despite travelers' cost concerns

Spring breakers in Cancun, Mexico

United Airlines expects its busiest spring break ever this year, even as travelers say they are concerned about rising costs.

The carrier said Monday it expects to serve more than 21 million passengers between March 8 and April 21 — up nearly 10% compared with last year.

That equates to more than 200,000 people per day on average during the period — about 15,000 more people flying per day than last year.

United said it expects the busiest travel day to be Friday, March 22, when more than 500,000 passengers are slated to travel via the carrier. Likewise, the week of March 25 will be the busiest travel week, with about 480,000 people flying each day that week, on average.

Travel group Expedia separately reported last month that the April 8 solar eclipse appears to be driving some of the biggest surges in bookings, with locations in Texas — the state with one of the largest exposures to the event — nearly doubling; searches for Dallas are up 95% year on year, Expedia said, while Austin searches are up 90%.

United and Expedia both said traditional spring getaway locations like Florida, Cancun and Las Vegas remain at the top of this year's most-sought destinations list.

According to the travel booking group Hopper, 90% of survey respondents traveling this spring said price and affordability are top of mind.

Yet despite higher demand, prices are actually down this year, according to Hayley Berg, lead economist with Hopper. A "good deal" average price for someone who plans ahead for a spring break trip in the U.S. is down 2% from last year and 11% from 2019 to approximately $250, Hopper data show.

In fact, the lower prices are helping drive demand, Berg said. Thanks to increased competition from low-cost carriers, increased seating capacity on planes, and a return to full-strength staffing, the price the average consumer is likely to encounter when booking is continuing to fall — a trend that had been occurring before the onset of Covid-19 in 2020.

"It's been great for consumers," she said. "Pre-pandemic, prices were down consistently for years. It's something that's allowed the millennial generation to have travel be something they do a lot of."

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Rob Wile is a breaking business news reporter for NBC News Digital.

A woman clutching an infant is found in the rubble of Ukraine building after Russian drone strike

People with hoses and flashlights work next to rubble at night.

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President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Western allies to boost Ukraine’s air defenses after a Russian drone strike destroyed an apartment block in the southern port city of Odesa and killed at least 11 people. Officials on Sunday said the bodies of a boy and a young woman, who was clutching an infant, were pulled from Saturday’s rubble.

“The mother tried to cover the 8-month-old child with her own [body]. She tried to save them. They were found in a firm embrace,” said a post on the messaging app Telegram, published on the Interior Ministry’s official channel. Separately, the governor of the Odesa region, Oleh Kiper, said the other child was 10.

On Saturday, Ukrainian authorities said another baby was among those killed after falling debris from an Iranian-made drone hit the building — one of eight Russian drones reported by officials. Later that day, Zelensky said a second child, age 2, had also died.

“Delays in the delivery of weapons to Ukraine, as well as air defense to protect our people, unfortunately result in such losses,” Zelensky wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

More people may still be trapped, the Odesa branch of Ukraine’s main emergency service said on Facebook. Kiper said rescue workers continued to comb through the site.

In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Service, emergency workers clear the rubble on the site of a destroyed multi-store building after a Russian attack on residential neighbourhood in Odesa, Ukraine, Saturday, March 2, 2024. (Ukrainian Emergency Service Office via AP)

World & Nation

Russian drone strike on the Ukrainian port city of Odesa kills 7

Ukraine officials say seven people were killed when debris from a Russian drone hit an apartment block in the port city of Odesa.

March 2, 2024

Elsewhere in Ukraine, regional authorities reported that a 58-year-old man died under rubble after Russian forces overnight shelled his village in southern Kherson province. Another civilian man, 38, was killed in a Russian artillery strike in the neighboring Zaporizhzhia region, local Gov. Ivan Fedorov said.

On Sunday afternoon, Donetsk regional Gov. Vadim Filashkin said a Russian airstrike on the eastern town of Kurakhove wounded 16 people and damaged 15 high-rise apartment blocks.

In Russian-occupied Crimea, explosions were heard near an oil depot in the early hours Sunday, according to a local, pro-Kyiv Telegram news channel. Kremlin-installed officials in the territory said a nearby stretch of highway was closed for about eight hours.

Videos shared with pro-Ukrainian channel Crimean Wind showed explosions lighting up the sky, followed by booms. The channel said the footage was taken by residents near Feodosia, a coastal town in northeastern Crimea. It was not immediately possible to verify the circumstances in which the videos were shot.

An anti-Russian, Crimean Tatar-led underground group claimed that the blasts destroyed a pipeline, causing “colossal” damage.

FILE - In this photo taken from video released by Russia Emergency Situations Ministry telegram channel on Dec. 30, 2023, firefighters extinguish burning cars after shelling in Belgorod, Russia. Belgorod has canceled its traditional Orthodox Epiphany festivities on Friday, Jan. 19, 2024 due to the threat of attacks as Kyiv's forces pursue a new strategy with the war approaching its two-year milestone. (Russia Emergency Situations Ministry telegram channel via AP, File)

Ukrainian drone attack on oil depot inside Russia causes massive blaze, officials say

A Ukrainian drone struck an oil depot in western Russia, causing a massive blaze as Kyiv’s forces apparently extended their attacks on Russian soil.

Jan. 19, 2024

The group, Atesh — which means “fire” in Crimean Tatar — did not directly claim responsibility for the strike and said it had learned about its consequences from informers among Russian-appointed officials. Authorities in Kyiv did not immediately acknowledge the claims.

Traffic was halted early Sunday along a four-lane Russian federal highway near Feodosia, according to an advisor to Crimea’s Kremlin-installed leader. The Telegram post by Oleg Kryuchkov gave no reasons for the move.

More than eight hours later, Crimea’s transportation minister reported that traffic had partially resumed. A bridge that connects Crimea to Russian territory was also closed to traffic for about two hours early Sunday.

Russia’s defense ministry did not comment on the reports, but claimed that 38 Ukrainian drones were intercepted overnight into Sunday over the peninsula.

In Moscow, China’s special envoy on Ukraine held talks on Saturday evening with senior Russian diplomats in the first leg of a European trip that will also take him to Belgium, Poland, Germany and France, Chinese and Russian state media reported.

In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Service, firefighters put out a fire after a Russian missile attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023. (Ukrainian Emergency Service via AP)

Russia launches fresh drone strikes in Ukraine after promising retaliation for Belgorod attack

The retaliatory attack wounded 28 people in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, officials said, after a fatal strike on the Russian city of Belgorod.

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China’s Foreign Ministry said Special Representative Li Hui and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin agreed that negotiations are the only way to end the fighting in Ukraine.

Li’s trip, the second since May, comes as Kyiv seeks Beijing’s participation in peace talks that Switzerland is trying to organize. China claims it is neutral in Russia’s war on Ukraine but maintains close ties with Moscow, with frequent state visits and joint military drills.

On Sunday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said it was time to start discussing a cease-fire between Moscow and Kyiv, claiming that “both sides have now reached the limits of the results they can achieve through war.”

Speaking at a news conference, Fidan said that such a move would not mean recognizing Russia’s occupation of parts of Ukraine.

“We believe that it is time to separate the issues of recognition of the occupation and sovereignty from the cease-fire issue,” he said.

Blann and Kozlowska reported from Kyiv and London, respectively. AP writers Simina Mistreanu in Taipei, Taiwan, and Cinar Kiper in Antalya, Turkey, contributed to this report.

More to Read

In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Italy's Premier Giorgia Meloni, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, from right to left, attend laying flowers ceremony at the Wall of Remembrance to pay tribute to killed Ukrainian soldiers, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has welcomed Western leaders to Kyiv to mark the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, as Ukrainian forces run low on ammunition and foreign aid hangs in the balance. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP)

Western leaders rally around Kyiv to mark 2 years since Russia’s full-scale invasion

Feb. 24, 2024

Firefighters work to extinguish a fire in an apartment building after Russian attack in Kyiv, Ukraine, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. Authorities say Russia has fired cruise and ballistic missiles and Shahed-type drones at targets across Ukraine including the capital Kyiv. Officials said the Wednesday morning attack killed at least one civilian and injured 10 others. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky)

Russia attacks targets across Ukraine with missiles and drones as EU’s top diplomat visits Kyiv

Feb. 7, 2024

FILE - In this photo taken from video released by Russia Emergency Situations Ministry telegram channel on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023, firefighters extinguish burning cars after shelling in Belgorod, Russia. Russian air defenses downed dozens of Ukrainian drones aimed at occupied Crimea and southern Russia, officials said Friday Jan. 5, 2024. (Russia Emergency Situations Ministry telegram channel via AP, File)

Ukraine launches more drones and missiles at Russian areas as part of its new strategy

Jan. 5, 2024

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FILE - This artist depiction shows Massachusetts Air National Guardsman Jack Teixeira, right, appearing in U.S. District Court in Boston, April 14, 2023. Jack Teixeira, the Massachusetts Air National Guard member accused of leaking highly classified military documents about Russia’s war in Ukraine and other national security secrets, is expected to plead guilty on Monday in federal court. (Margaret Small via AP, File)

Massachusetts Air National Guardsman Jack Teixeira pleads guilty to leaking military secrets

March 4, 2024

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., speaks at the Capitol in Washington, Feb. 29, 2024. Shortages of ammunition and supplies are resulting in Ukraine losing ground, congressional leaders warn, yet the Republican-controlled House has shown little hurry to resupply Kyiv with military aid. Johnson appears determined to chart his own course on a foreign aid package, which could leave Congress stalled for weeks longer. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Ukraine’s troops are rationing ammunition. Yet House Republicans plan to take weeks to mull more aid

FILE - Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, left, shakes hands with his Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban at the Carmelite Monastery in Budapest, Hungary, Friday, Feb 23, 2024. As Sweden joins NATO, it bids a final farewell to more than two centuries of neutrality. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos, File)

As Sweden joins NATO, it bids farewell to more than two centuries of neutrality

FILE - Phill Cady holds a sign during a "Take Our Border Back" rally on Feb. 3, 2024, in Quemado, Texas. Online actors tied to the Kremlin have begun pushing misleading and incendiary claims about U.S. immigration in an apparent bid to target American voters ahead of the 2024 election. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

Russian disinformation is about immigration. The real aim is to undercut Ukraine aid

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People rush towards an aid truck carrying bags of flour in Gaza City on Saturday.

Israel ‘accepts six-week ceasefire deal’ as Hamas response awaited, US officials say

White House officials claim provisional agreement is on the table as scale of starvation crisis revealed

  • See all of our Israel-Gaza war coverage

Israel has provisionally accepted a six-week phased hostage and ceasefire deal which would begin with the release of wounded, elderly and female hostages, but it was still unclear on Saturday whether Hamas would accept it, US officials have claimed.

Talks took place in Doha, the Qatari capital, on Saturday and were expected to move to Cairo on Sunday as the scale of looming starvation pushed the US to start air-dropping food into the enclave.

The US said an extended ceasefire was the most direct route to getting large-scale aid deliveries into Gaza, and suggested that agreement was close. “The path to a ceasefire right now, literally at this hour, is straightforward,” a senior US official said. “And there’s a deal on the table. There’s a framework deal. The Israelis have more or less accepted it. And there will be a six-week ceasefire in Gaza starting today, if Hamas agrees to release the default defined category of vulnerable hostages: the sick the wounded, elderly and women. “We’re working around the clock to see if we can get this in place here over the coming week,” the official said. He said Israel had “basically” accepted the deal, but did not specify whether it still had reservations or what those were.

The Israeli newspaper Haaretz said the country’s negotiators expect a Hamas response to its proposed hostage-exchange deal on Sunday or Monday. The key issue is the identity of hostages who will be released, and the ratio of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for each of them, Haaretz added, citing a senior diplomat.

At least 576,000 people in Gaza are “one step away from famine” according to the UN, and one in six children under the age of two in northern Gaza are suffering from acute malnutrition and wasting. Doctors have registered a 10th child as having died from starvation in a Gaza hospital, the UN health agency said, and the real number of deaths “is likely to be higher”.

The decision to parachute in aid has been fiercely criticised by aid agencies, human rights groups and many diplomats, who say it is expensive and ineffective.

The EU’s diplomatic service warned that supplies would have “minimal” impact on the crisis in Gaza, in a statement issued on Saturday: “Air drops should be the solution of last resort as their impact is minimal and not devoid of risks to civilians.” A plane only carries the equivalent of one or two truckloads of food. Distribution cannot be controlled, with packages likely to be monopolised by those strong enough to chase and fight for them, and easily diverted.

Critics point out that President Biden has opted not to use Washington’s leverage as Israel’s principal arms supplier, and most important international ally, to force it to open up more land access for aid. Emile Hokayem, director for regional security at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, called the US air drops “virtue signalling and an admission of impotence on the part of the US”.

People rushing toward food aid dropped by the US over Gaza on Saturday.

US officials said that three C-130 planes dropped 66 pallets of food, containing a total of 38,000 meals in mid-afternoon local time on Saturday, the first of a series of air drops coordinated with Jordan. They will do almost nothing to address the scale of need. In north Gaza, where hunger is so widespread that people have been eating animal food for weeks, there are 300,000 people. The US aid parachute even if shared equally here would just provide a single meal to one in every 10 residents.

US officials said the current aid bottleneck was not about getting trucks through the crossings into Gaza but distributing the assistance in conditions of lawlessness and widespread looting by criminal gangs and desperate civilians. The solution, the officials said, is to flood Gaza with aid by opening up more crossings as well as sea routes to the coastal strip.

The US vice-president Kamala Harris will meet the Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz at the White House on Monday. The talks are expected to span topics including reducing civilian casualties, securing a temporary ceasefire, the release of hostages and increasing aid to the territory, a White House official said.

So far Washington has been unable to persuade Israel to open more than two crossings in the very south of Gaza, and Israeli red tape has kept aid flows to a trickle. But US officials said they were hopeful about progress. They said a ceasefire deal would be key.

“The ball is in the court of Hamas,” a senior US official said, adding that other countries, including Egypt, had “work to do” in persuading Hamas to accept the deal. “That was the focus of the president’s calls this week. But I would just say that it’s a complicated deal. It is more complex than the first deal in November that was a five-day deal extended day by day. This is a six-week deal and has the potential to extend from there.”

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Hamas has indicated its negotiating position could be influenced by the deaths of 115 Gazans who were killed after Israeli troops opened fire near a crowd of people scrambling to get food from an aid convoy. The EU said the Israeli army had killed “many civilians” and called for an impartial international investigation. “The firing by Israeli soldiers against civilians trying to access foodstuff is unjustifiable,” the statement said.

Israel says its forces opened fire in self-defence and did not target the crowd. It says the majority of the dead were killed in the crowd crush or run over by trucks.

UN officials visiting al-Shifa hospital the day after the attack said they saw many survivors with gunshot wounds, matching interviews with doctors treating the injured and eye-witness accounts of the incident.

“This hospital is treating more than 200 people who were injured yesterday,” Georgios Petropoulos, the Gaza head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a video posted on social media. “We have seen gunshot wounds, we have seen amputees and we have children as young as 12 who were injured.

“These events cannot be allowed to go on. We need to have safe secure passage throughout Gaza to reach the people who need humanitarian aid. We need every single crossing into Gaza opening.”

Biden and Hamas leaders said the aid convoy deaths could complicate negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. But Egyptian security sources said the incident had pushed both sides to intensify their efforts, in order to preserve progress made so far, Reuters reported.

Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki said during a speech at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum on Saturday: “We hope that we will be able to achieve a ceasefire before Ramadan.”

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    Ramada Plaza Antalya | Just 700 metres from Antalya's historic Kaleiçi, Ramada Plaza offers world-class service, modern spacious rooms with sea view, a swimming pool, and a superb sundeck on a cliff next to the Mediterranean. Ramada Plaza also offers all-inclusive stays for those craving a fully arranged summer getaway.

  10. Things to do in Antalya, Turkey A traveller's guide to the city

    Travel from Antalya city centre to Konyaalti by local bus (You can buy top-up bus cards from many local shops around Antalya.) Travelling by bus in Antalya is a local experience, to say the least. For one, you won't find any bus timetable information at any of the bus stops, and it's very difficult to get any help from the driver.

  11. 17 Exciting Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey!

    Distance from Antalya: 16 km (10 miles) Travel time: 20 minutes by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus, not available by train; Best way to get there: Perge is a really easy day trip to get to by hiring a car or taking a public bus. Buses go direct from Mevlana Cd-1 Antalya and depart every 20 minutes. It takes just over an hour, so it's completely ...

  12. Antalya Travel Guide, Attractions & Tips Turkey

    Antalya Travel Guide, Attractions & Tips. Antalya is located on the Mediterranean coast in the south of our country. Every year there is an influx of local and foreign tourists. Therefore, it is one of the most important cities of tourism in Turkey. The coastal length is 630 kilometers. Therefore, the length of the coast is considered Turkey ...

  13. 4 Days in Antalya

    How to get to Antalya . By car - you can get to Antalya by car if you live in a close enough country. However, I would recommend this option only if you plan a road trip in Turkey, which involves several destinations in this country, not just a trip to Antalya.Thus, your car will be handy for you. Otherwise, I recommend the plane, especially if you only want to spend 4 days in Antalya.

  14. Turkey Travel Advisory

    1480 Sok No:1 Cukurambar Mah Cankaya 06530, Ankara. Telephone. 90-312-294-0000 (emergencies only) Emergency. Fax. 90-312-232-7472.

  15. Is Antalya Worth Visiting? The Answer Might Surprise You!

    I know you're probably sick of reading that question by this point—I apologize for the repetition. However, it's important that I state my point—Antalya is absolutely worth visiting, no matter what you expect of the destination—emphatically. Without being hyperbolic, I can safely say that Antalya was the biggest (and best) surprise of ...

  16. Antalya trip planner: make a Antalya itinerary & map

    Plan on the go with our free travel app. With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline. Keep your places to visit, flight/hotel reservations, and day-by-day itineraries for your trip to Antalya in our web and mobile app vacation planner.

  17. 10 Super Helpful Things You Should Know Before Visiting Antalya!

    Antalya has a well-developed transport system and it allows visitors to travel easily around the city. Antalya Trams (Nostalji Tramvay and AntRay), Dolmus, and Buses are extremely convenient and are usually on time. Taxi stands are all over the city, but this can be quite expensive as it is compulsory to pay a fee for gas. The average fee of a ...

  18. How to Spend Four Splendid Days in Antalya, Turkey

    Day 2- Olympos. The town is fantastic and there is always something to do, but you came to the beach to go to the beach, so let's get going! Although there is Lara beach in town, the best stretches of shore are out of the city. My recommendation for a day out for fun in the sun is going to the sleepy town of Olympos.

  19. Antalya Tourist Information

    Antalya Tourist Information is an independent portal lead by friends of the region and influencers. We cover the needs of travelers in Antalya by informing visitors about any aspect of the Province, starting with the best things to do till rankings of reccomended hotels by guest ratings. As Wise Tour Travel Agency, licenced in the European ...

  20. Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Latest travel advice

    Are you planning to visit Turkey soon? Find out the latest travel advice and entry requirements from the Foreign Office, including Covid-19 tests, quarantine rules and visa regulations. Plus, get ...

  21. Two of the most-visited cities in the world are in Turkey

    More curious, however, is how Antalya, a city tucked on the Turkish Riviera home to 1.3 million people, managed to welcome 16.5 million international visitors - more than Paris (population: 2.1 ...

  22. 7 Interesting Facts About Antalya

    If you are planning a trip to Antalya, Here are 7 interesting facts about Antalya. 1. Antalya is a large coastal city in Turkey. Antalya is located on the Mediterranean coast of southwest Turkey. With a population of 1,318,826 (as of 2022), Antalya is the eighth-most populous city in Turkey and the largest Turkish city on the Mediterranean coast.

  23. About us

    Sayantalia is a travel and tourism agency start working in 2011; it is registered in the ministry of tourism in Turkey. Our agency located in Antalya overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and our services cover Antalya, Istanbul, and Trabzon. We provide you the best holidays with best services and best prices.

  24. All Tours

    With our detailed tour programs, you can find the opportunity to have a budget-friendly holiday whenever you want.s

  25. The Rise of the Do-Nothing Vacation

    More travelers say they want to make relaxation their top priority while on holiday.

  26. United Airlines expects busiest spring break ever despite travelers

    That equates to more than 200,000 people per day on average during the period — about 15,000 more people flying per day than last year. United said it expects the busiest travel day to be Friday ...

  27. Talks on an Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal appear on track after killings

    Ongoing talks to reach a ceasefire agreement to halt the fighting between Hamas and Israel in Gaza by Ramadan appear to still be on track, even after more than 100 Palestinians were killed on ...

  28. Russian drone strike kills woman with infant, 9 others in Ukraine

    President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Western allies to boost Ukraine's air defenses after a Russian drone strike destroyed an apartment block in the southern port city of Odesa and killed at least ...

  29. Israel 'accepts six-week ceasefire deal' as Hamas response awaited, US

    People rushing toward food aid dropped by the US over Gaza on Saturday. Photograph: Aline Manoukian/AFP/Getty Images. US officials said that three C-130 planes dropped 66 pallets of food ...