Do you know about Antalya in Turkey? If not, you’re missing out on one of the most beautiful tourist spots on the Mediterranean coast. This beautiful city has rapidly grown to be among the most preferred holiday destinations because of the beautiful beaches, favorable weather, friendly people and a very interesting history.
Antalya is also one of the cheapest tourist destinations in Turkey, which is always good for tourists. According to the data of 2023, Antalya is one of the most popular tourist destinations, hosting more than 13,5 million tourists.
Here are some valuable tips and information that might help you plan your trip to Antalya!
Knowing Antalya Turkey
Antalya is one of the most stunning cities in Turkey that is on the Mediterranean coast; it has developed over 2000 years ago. It was long one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world and each of them have left behind their legacy. Well, let’s move on and discuss it’s history further.
Antalya was founded by the Greeks around 150 BC by King Attalus II of Pergamon. He wanted to build a city that resembled paradise, and he chose the breathtaking spot on the Mediterranean coast. The city was initially called “Attaleia”, after the king, but over time it evolved into Antalya.
The next to rule the city were the Romans after the Greece had dominated the region. In the ancient history, the most famous Roman emperor Hadrian visited Antalya in 130 AC. In his honor a great gate, which is called Hadrian’s Gate today, was built to commemorate his visit to the city.
In the 13th century, the Seljuks, a Turkish empire, captured Antalya. They made it an important trade hub by developing its port, through which ships from Europe, Asia, and Africa exchanged goods. This made the city wealthy and significant.
By the 14th century, Antalya was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, which expanded its importance as a key city on the Mediterranean. The Ottomans built many stunning mosques, markets, and public buildings that can still be visited today, reflecting the architectural styles of the time.
Important Facts About Antalya
Here are some amazing facts that make Antalya stand out:
- Name of the City: As I already said, Antalya was founded by king Attalus II. Even though the name has evolved over the centuries, it still has roots in the Greek language.
- Tourism Capital of Turkey: It is believed that Antalya is the most important region in Turkey in terms of tourism. It has become one of the most visited places in the world and according to the statistics, in 2022 it received 13.5 million tourists.
- Ancient Ruins: There many archaeological sites in Antalya. One of them is Perge that has been existing for over two thousand years and has a good example of a theatre. The other site is Termessos, a mountain city that was never captured not even by Alexander the Great.
- Beautiful Beaches: Konyaaltı Beach and Lara Beach are two of the beautiful beaches in Antalya. These beaches have clear water and fine grain sand and this makes them ideal for swimming and sun basking.
Did you know that in 2023 Antalya will be among ten cheapest travel destinations in Europe and will be available to tourists from different countries?
When is the Best Time to Travel to Antalya?
Summer is the best time to visit Antalya since it is between June through to September. Since then the climate has become warmer, especially in summer which is ideal for most activities. Those who are sensitive to hot climate and crowds of people should better choose the spring time, from April up to June and the fall, from September up to October. During these times, temperatures are around 21 degrees Celsius (about 70 degrees Fahrenheit), which is very pleasant.
If you want to find a cheaper vacation, you can go there in the winter, from December to February. However, it is still slightly less humid, and it is January and average rainfall is 240 mm, so there might be no tourists, and hence possibly, higher prices for travel and accommodation.
You will always have a good time whenever you decide to visit Antalya.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Antalya?
To truly experience the beauty and history of Antalya, plan to stay for 5-7 days. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, visit the ancient ruins, relax on the beaches, and enjoy some of Antalya’s natural wonders, like the Düden Waterfalls.
What Things to Do in Antalya & Must-See Attraction
Antalya is a treasure trove of adventures, where every corner reveals a new surprise. Yes!
So, If you’re looking for the best experiences, here’s what you can’t miss.
1. Explore Antalya’s Old Town (Kaleiçi)
Step into Kaleiçi, the heart of Antalya’s history. Imagine strolling along narrow streets lined with Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture. You’ll feel like you’ve time-traveled! The Old Town, dating back to 200 BC, is full of surprises like Hadrian’s Gate, an ancient Roman arch that stands tall at the entrance. Dive deeper into the local culture by exploring the bustling bazaars, where you can find unique handmade crafts and sample aromatic Turkish coffee.
Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful exploration.
2. Visit Hadrian’s Gate
This is a must-see historical gem in Antalya. Hadrian’s Gate, built in 150 AD, is one of the entrances to the Old Town and stands as a symbol of Roman history in the heart of Antalya. The three marble arches and four granite pillars make it a fantastic spot to start your journey through Kaleiçi.
3. Relax at Konyaaltı and Lara Beaches
Antalya’s stunning beaches are a must-visit. Konyaaltı Beach stretches over 13 kilometers with a mix of private and public sections. It’s perfect for a day of swimming and sunbathing.
On the other hand, Lara Beach is known for its luxurious 5-star resorts and a pristine 15 km sandy coastline. You’ll only find a small portion open to the public, but if you want to be pampered, booking a resort here is the way to go.
4. Take a Trip to Düden Waterfalls
The Düden Waterfalls are some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Antalya. There are two sets of falls: Upper Düden, a serene 20-meter-high waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, and Lower Düden, where the falls drop dramatically 40 meters into the Mediterranean Sea.
If you only have time for one, Lower Düden Falls offers an impressive view as it crashes into the sea.
5. Discover the Antalya Archaeological Museum
For a break from the beach, visit the Antalya Archaeological Museum, one of the largest in Turkey. The museum features 13 exhibit halls showcasing artifacts from different historical periods, from ancient Greek to Ottoman times.
You’ll want to check out the Hall of Imperial Statues and the Natural History Hall for a glimpse into Turkey’s rich heritage. A guided tour is highly recommended for an in-depth understanding of the displays.
6. Explore the Ancient City of Perge
Step back into Roman times with a visit to Perge Ancient City. Located just outside Antalya, this site boasts well-preserved ruins that transport you to a bygone era. The Roman theater, stadium, and agora are standout features, with intricate details that will leave you in awe.
Walking through the Hellenistic Gate gives you a taste of what life was like in this once-bustling city. Perge is a must for history buffs!
7. Wrap Up Your Trip with a Boat Tour to Suluada
No trip to Antalya is complete without a boat tour. Suluada Island offers an escape from the crowds, with its unspoiled beaches and mineral-rich waters. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Where to Stay in Antalya
Here are the top five areas to consider staying, together with some of the best hotels in each area.
1. Kaleici (Old Town) — Great for First-Time Visitors
Kaleici is Antalya’s Old Town, perfect for first-time travelers. You can see old Ottoman houses and ancient Roman ruins. The streets are narrow and made of cobblestones, which gives it a charming feel. You can easily walk to famous spots like Hadrian’s Gate and the Antalya Museum. There’s also a fun shopping street called Uzun Çarşı.
Recommended Hotels to Stay
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Cedrus Hotel
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Kiana Kaleici
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Sultan Pension
2. Konyaalti Beach — Best for Families
Konyaalti Beach is perfect for families. It is well known for its turquoise water and fine sand beaches. You can also visit other places in the same area such as the Antalya Aquarium and Waterhill Water Park. This beach has a blue flag and therefore the water is safe for swimming.
Recommended Hotels to Stay
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Porto Bello Hotel Resort & Spa
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The Room Hotel
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Anatolian Homes & Apart
3. Belek — The Place for Luxury
Belek is known for its fancy hotels and great golf courses. It is about a 50-minute drive from Antalya and is perfect for people looking to relax in a high-end resort. You can also visit historical sites like the Aspendos Roman Theater.
Recommended Hotels to Stay
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Regnum Carya
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The Land Of Legends
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Selin Hotel Spa
4. Olympos Beach — Perfect for Nature Lovers
Olympos Beach is a perfect place for those who like silence and want to enjoy natural beauties. It is located outside the city center and no car or sunbeds are permitted. The ancient town of Olympos is close by and offers the remains of the Roman and Byzantine eras which makes this area unique.
Recommended Hotels to Stay
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Azur Hotel
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Canada Hotel & Bungalows
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Teo Hotel
5. Lara Beach — Best for Beach Lovers
If you love spending time on sandy beaches, Lara Beach is the place for you. Known for its long coastline, this area has many luxurious hotels. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports.
Recommended Hotels in Lara Beach
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Titanic Beach Lara
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Delphin BE Grand Resort
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Lara Hadrianus Hotel
In any hotel you choose in Antalya, you will be sure to have a good time!
Last Words
Antalya is an extraordinary city, which combines ancient monuments, beautiful coast, and a warm climate. The city of Antalya offers a great variety of experiences – from visiting historical sites to sunbathing on the beach – so while there you can make a lot of great shots.
Happy travels!
Below are the FAQs that may help you further before visiting Antalya:
FAQs About Visiting Antalya
Is Antalya cheap?
Of course, Antalya is comparatively cheap for tourists. A three-course dinner for two is about $25 and bus transportation, for example, costs less than one dollar per trip.
How do I get around Antalya?
The use of public transport is the cheapest means of transport in Antalya. For bus and trams you can get an AntalyaKart and a ride will cost you approximately $0.41. Taxis, electric scooters and bikes are also available and convenient to get around the city.
Is it safe to visit Antalya?
Generally, Antalya is quite safe, but like in most other popular tourist destinations, one has to be wary of pickpockets, more so in areas with large crowds. Be on the lookout for con artists, and women should not walk around at night alone for security purposes.
Are the beaches in Antalya free?
Both Konyaaltı and Lara Beach have public sections, but some areas require a fee for access.
What are some must-try local foods in Antalya?
Be sure to try local favorites like:
- Piyaz
- Aksu Köfte
- Serpme Börek
- Turkish tea
- Turkish coffee
- Efes Pilsen
