Antalya: The Gateway to the Turkish Riviera

With its stunning Mediterranean coastline, ancient ruins, and vibrant city life, Antalya is one of Turkey’s most captivating destinations. Known as the “Gateway to the Turkish Riviera,” this city blends luxury resorts, historical landmarks, breathtaking beaches, and adventure-filled landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the cobbled streets of Kaleiçi, pswimming in turquoise waters, or hiking through ancient ruins, Antalya offers something for every traveler.

Kaleiçi: Antalya’s Charming Old Town

Sunlit street in Kaleiçi, Antalya showcasing historic architecture and quaint, narrow pathways.

At the heart of Antalya lies Kaleiçi, the city’s historic district, filled with Ottoman-era mansions, cobbled streets, and lively bazaars.

Things to Do in Kaleiçi:

✔ Wander through narrow alleys, discovering hidden cafés, boutique hotels, and art galleries.

✔ See Hadrian’s Gate, a 2,000-year-old Roman triumphal arch.

✔ Visit the Yivli Minaret, an iconic 13th-century Seljuk-era mosque.

✔ Enjoy a rooftop sunset drink at a bar overlooking the Mediterranean.

Hidden Gem:

• Hıdırlık Tower – A Roman-era watchtower offering spectacular views of the Antalya coastline.

Pro Tip: Stay at a boutique hotel in Kaleiçi for an authentic, historical experience.

Konyaaltı & Lara Beach: Sun, Sand & Sea

Sweeping view of Konyaaltı Beach with the majestic Taurus Mountains as a backdrop, where beachgoers enjoy the sun along the expansive shoreline.

Antalya is home to some of Turkey’s most beautiful beaches, offering golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning mountain backdrops.

Best Beaches in Antalya:

• Konyaaltı Beach – A long pebble beach with clear waters and a backdrop of the Taurus Mountains.

• Lara Beach – Known for its soft golden sand and luxurious beachfront resorts.

• Mermerli Beach – A small, hidden beach near Kaleiçi, perfect for a quick swim.

Hidden Gem:

• Kaputaş Beach – A breathtaking cove between towering cliffs, located about an hour’s drive from Antalya.

Pro Tip: Konyaaltı Beach is great for families and casual swimmers, while Lara Beach offers upscale experiences with private beach clubs.

Düden Waterfalls: Antalya’s Natural Wonder

The majestic Düden Waterfalls cascade into the Mediterranean Sea, creating a stunning natural spectacle against the backdrop of a serene coastline.

One of Antalya’s most famous landmarks, Düden Waterfalls is a stunning cascade of water that plunges into the Mediterranean Sea.

Two Ways to Experience Düden Waterfalls:

✔ Upper Düden Waterfall – A peaceful park area where you can walk behind the waterfall.

✔ Lower Düden Waterfall – A dramatic waterfall that flows directly into the sea, best viewed from a boat tour.

Hidden Gem:

• Kursunlu Waterfall – A smaller, less crowded waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery.

Pro Tip: Take a boat trip from Antalya’s harbor for the best view of Lower Düden Waterfall.

Aspendos: The Best-Preserved Roman Theater in the World

The ancient Roman theater of Aspendos, nestled in a picturesque landscape with lush fields and distant mountains, showcases its well-preserved architecture under a clear blue sky.

Located 40 km from Antalya, Aspendos is home to one of the most well-preserved Roman theaters in the world, dating back to 155 AD.

Why Visit Aspendos?

✔ Marvel at the massive, 15,000-seat Roman amphitheater, still used for concerts today.

✔ Explore the ancient aqueducts, showcasing incredible Roman engineering.

✔ Attend the annual Aspendos Opera & Ballet Festival, held inside the theater.

Pro Tip: Combine a trip to Aspendos with Perge and Side, two other stunning ancient cities nearby.

Perge: Walk Among Ancient Ruins

Ancient ruins of Perge, showcasing a well-preserved colonnaded street and remnants of classical architecture, surrounded by lush greenery and historical intrigue.

Just 20 km from Antalya, Perge is an ancient city dating back to 1000 BC, offering impressive ruins of Greek and Roman civilizations.

Things to See in Perge:

✔ The grand Roman stadium, once holding 12,000 spectators.

✔ The ancient city gates and colonnaded streets, lined with marble columns.

✔ The massive Roman baths, showing the city’s former wealth.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.

Antalya’s Best Boat Tours: Explore the Turquoise Coast

One of the best ways to see Antalya’s breathtaking coastline is by taking a boat tour.

Top Boat Trips from Antalya:

• Suluada Island Tour – Known as “Turkey’s Maldives”, this island has white sand and crystal-clear water.

• Phaselis Ancient City & Bay – Swim at a hidden beach inside an ancient Lycian city.

• Kekova & Sunken City – Explore underwater ruins from an ancient Lycian town.

Hidden Gem:

• Adrasan Bay – A less touristy alternative with secluded beaches and turquoise waters.

Pro Tip: Choose a private yacht or smaller boat for a more exclusive experience.

Saklıkent Canyon: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Just an hour’s drive from Antalya, Saklıkent Canyon is one of Turkey’s deepest canyons, perfect for hiking and river adventures.

Things to Do in Saklıkent Canyon:

✔ Walk through the ice-cold river, surrounded by towering cliffs.

✔ Try river tubing, a fun and refreshing way to explore the canyon.

✔ Relax at a riverside café, where you can sit on cushions by the water.

Hidden Gem:

• Gizlikent Waterfall – A hidden waterfall near Saklıkent, perfect for a quick dip.

Pro Tip: Bring water shoes for walking through the riverbed.

What to Eat in Antalya: Mediterranean & Turkish Delights

Antalya’s cuisine is influenced by its Aegean, Mediterranean, and Ottoman heritage.

Must-Try Foods in Antalya:

• Piyaz – A local dish made with white beans, tahini, lemon, and garlic.

• Şiş Kebab (Skewered Meat) – Grilled lamb or chicken kebabs, served with fresh vegetables.

• Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich) – A street food favorite, freshly grilled fish in a sandwich.

• Kaburga Dolması (Stuffed Lamb Ribs) – A slow-cooked dish filled with spiced rice.

• Yanık Dondurma (Burnt Ice Cream) – A unique smoky-flavored ice cream, only found in Antalya.

Hidden Gem:

• 7 Mehmet – One of Antalya’s most famous restaurants, serving traditional Turkish cuisine with a modern touch.

Where to Stay in Antalya: Best Hotels & Resorts

From luxury resorts to boutique hotels, Antalya offers a wide range of accommodation options.

Best Places to Stay in Antalya:

• Luxury: Lara Barut Collection – A 5-star beachfront resort with gourmet dining and a spa.

• Boutique: Tuvana Hotel – A charming historic hotel in Kaleiçi, perfect for couples.

• Budget: Antalya Inn Hotel – A cozy, budget-friendly option with sea views.

Pro Tip: Stay in Lara Beach for luxury resorts, or Kaleiçi for a more historical atmosphere.

Why You’ll Love Antalya

✔ Stunning beaches & turquoise waters

✔ Rich history & ancient ruins

✔ Exciting nightlife & beach clubs

✔ Breathtaking waterfalls & canyons

✔ Delicious Mediterranean & Turkish cuisine

Planning a Trip to Antalya?

Let me know if you need hidden gems, itinerary ideas, or hotel recommendations—I’d love to help make your trip unforgettable!