Things to Do in Antalya: A Guide to Top Activities, Attractions, and Hidden Gems

Antalya, often referred to as the “Turquoise Coast’s gateway,” is a stunning blend of sun, sea, and ancient history. For those considering things to do in Antalya, the old city of Kaleiçi with its historic harbor and Hadrian’s Gate are top attractions.

Surrounded by majestic mountains and nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Antalya offers a plethora of beach resorts and beautiful coves. The Düden Waterfalls, cascading into the sea, provide a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Beyond its natural beauty, Antalya is a hub for cultural festivals, vibrant markets, and traditional Turkish cuisine. For those wondering where to go in Turkey for a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion, Antalya stands out as a premier destination.

Attractions and Things to Do in Antalya, Turkey

1. Konyaaltı Beach

Konyaaltı Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Antalya, stretching over 7 kilometers along the southwestern coast of Turkey. It’s known for its beautiful blue waters and pebbly shores, offering a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach has cafes, restaurants, and bars, providing ample refreshment options.

Location: Situated in Antalya’s western coastal area, easily accessible by car, bus, or walking.

Scenic Spot: A 7-kilometer stretch of pebbly beach with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all ages, including families with children. Water shoes are recommended for comfort on the pebbly beach.

Price: Free to access; fees apply for sun loungers and umbrellas (approximately €5-€10).

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, and don’t forget to bring water shoes to walk on the pebbly beach comfortably.

2. Hadrian’s Gate

Hadrian’s Gate is a triumphal arch built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who visited Antalya in the year 130. This ancient monument is a testament to Antalya’s rich Roman history and is an architectural marvel with its ornate carvings and three arched gates.

Location: Located at the entrance to the old town of Kaleiçi, walkable from most parts of the city.

Scenic Spot: A stunning Roman-era triumphal arch with ornate carvings and three grand arches, perfect for photography.

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and harsh sunlight.

Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all ages, though some uneven paths may require extra care for elderly visitors.

Price: Free to visit.

Travel Tip: Take a guided tour to learn about the historical significance of the gate, and explore the nearby old town of Kaleiçi for a complete historical experience.

3. Hıdırlık Tower

Hıdırlık Tower is a historic landmark located in the Kaleiçi district of Antalya. This Roman-era structure has served various purposes over the centuries, including a lighthouse and a defensive fortification. The tower offers panoramic views of the harbor and the city, making it a popular spot for photography.

Location: Situated in Kaleiçi, overlooking the old harbor. Accessible on foot from the old town.

Scenic Spot: Offers panoramic views of Antalya’s harbor, city, and the Mediterranean Sea, especially beautiful at sunset.

Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking views and golden-hour photography.

Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though the area around the tower has uneven terrain.

Price: Free to visit.

Travel Tip: Visit the tower during sunset for breathtaking views, and consider exploring the surrounding old town area for a blend of history and local culture.

4. Düden Waterfalls

The Düden Waterfalls are a natural wonder located in Antalya, consisting of two separate falls: the Upper Düden and the Lower Düden. A lush park surrounds the Upper Düden, while the Lower Düden dramatically cascades into the Mediterranean Sea. Both offer picturesque views and opportunities for picnicking and relaxation.

Location: Upper Düden is located 10 km north of Antalya, while Lower Düden cascades into the sea, easily reachable by car, bus, or boat tour.

Scenic Spot: Upper Düden offers a serene park setting, while Lower Düden dramatically falls into the Mediterranean, visible best from a boat.

Best Time to Visit: Spring or early summer for lush greenery and flowing waterfalls.

Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for families, children, and elderly visitors. Some walking paths may require caution.

Price: Approximately €1-€2 for park entry; boat tours cost around €15-€25.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and consider taking a boat tour to see the Lower Düden Waterfall from the sea for a unique perspective.

5. Kaleiçi

Kaleiçi is the historical center of Antalya, known for its narrow cobbled streets, Ottoman-era houses, and vibrant nightlife. This area has been carefully restored to retain its historical character and is filled with hotels, bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops.

Location: The historical heart of Antalya, easily accessible by foot or local transport.

Scenic Spot: Cobbled streets, Ottoman-era houses, vibrant markets, and stunning views of the harbor.

Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all, though some streets may be steep and uneven.

Price: Free to explore, though costs apply for shopping or dining.

Travel Tip: Explore Kaleiçi on foot to fully immerse yourself in its charm, and don’t miss the chance to shop for local crafts and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in one of the many local eateries.

6. Antalya Aquarium

The Antalya Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, offering an exciting underwater adventure. Visitors can explore themed sections, including tropical reefs, shark tanks, and a long tunnel providing a 360-degree view of the marine life.

Location: Situated near Konyaaltı Beach, accessible by car, bus, or taxi.

Scenic Spot: Home to the world’s longest tunnel aquarium and several themed underwater exhibits.

Best Time to Visit: Morning for smaller crowds and cooler temperatures.

Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for families with children and suitable for all age groups.

Price: Entry costs approximately €25-€30 per person. Discounts may apply for children and families.

Travel Tip: Plan to spend at least a few hours here to enjoy the exhibits fully, and consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.

7. Termessos Ancient City

Termessos is an ancient city located high in the mountains near Antalya. Known for its well-preserved ruins and stunning natural surroundings, it offers a glimpse into the ancient Pisidian civilization. The site includes a theater, temples, and tombs, all set against a breathtaking mountainous backdrop.

Location: Located 30 km northwest of Antalya in the Taurus Mountains. Accessible by car or guided tours.

Scenic Spot: Stunning ruins of an ancient city, including a well-preserved theater and tombs, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Suitable for All Ages: Best for active adults and families with older children; requires walking and climbing, so not ideal for very young children or the elderly.

Price: Entrance costs approximately €2-€5.

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, as the site requires walking and climbing to explore. A guided tour can provide valuable historical insights.

8. Lara Beach

Lara Beach is a sandy beach located east of Antalya’s city center. Known for its luxury resorts and clear blue waters, it’s a favorite spot for relaxation and water sports. The beach is also famous for its unique sand sculptures.

Location: Situated east of Antalya’s city center, accessible by car, taxi, or public bus.

Scenic Spot: A sandy beach known for its luxury resorts, water sports, and annual sand sculpture festival.

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds; summer months for swimming and beach activities.

Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all, including families with children.

Price: Free to access; fees apply for sun loungers and umbrellas (approximately €5-€10).

Travel Tip: Visit during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and explore the nearby shops and restaurants for local flavors.

9. Perge Ancient City

Perge is an archaeological site located just outside Antalya, showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture. Visitors can explore the ancient stadium, theater, city gates, and baths, which are remarkably well-preserved.

Location: Located 18 km east of Antalya, easily reachable by car or guided tour.

Scenic Spot: Roman ruins, including a stadium, theater, and city gates, all surrounded by a serene natural setting.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better lighting for photography.

Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults and families with older children. Uneven terrain may be challenging for elderly visitors.

Price: Entrance costs approximately €5-€10.

Travel Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the site has little shade. A guided tour can enhance the experience by providing historical context.

10. Olympos Cable Car

The Olympos Cable Car takes visitors to the summit of Mount Tahtalı, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The ride is an experience, and visitors can enjoy hiking trails and dining options once at the top.

Location: Situated on Mount Tahtalı, 57 km southwest of Antalya. Accessible by car or shuttle buses from nearby towns.

Scenic Spot: Stunning views of the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea from the summit of Mount Tahtalı.

Best Time to Visit: Clear weather days for the best views, preferably in the morning or late afternoon.

Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all ages, though the cooler summit may require extra layers for children or elderly visitors.

Price: Cable car tickets cost approximately €25-€30 per person.

Travel Tip: Dress in layers, as the temperature can be cooler at the summit. Consider visiting during clear weather for the best views.

11. Suna-İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum

The Suna-İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum is a cultural gem located in the old town of Kaleiçi. It showcases Antalya’s local history and culture through various exhibits, including traditional Turkish arts and crafts.

Location: Located in Kaleiçi, easily accessible on foot.

Scenic Spot: Showcases Antalya’s local history, arts, and crafts in a restored Ottoman house.

Best Time to Visit: Late morning or afternoon for a quiet, immersive experience.

Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults and older children; younger children may find it less engaging.

Price: Entrance costs approximately €2-€5.

Travel Tip: Allow at least an hour to explore the museum, and consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.

12. Karain Cave

Karain Cave is one of Turkey’s most significant prehistoric sites near Antalya. The cave has multiple chambers filled with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites and has been used by humans for over 25,000 years.

Location: Located 27 km northwest of Antalya, accessible by car or guided tours.

Scenic Spot: A prehistoric cave with fascinating chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and archaeological treasures.

Best Time to Visit: Morning for cooler temperatures and better visibility.

Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children; slippery floors may not be ideal for younger kids or the elderly.

Price: Entrance costs approximately €2-€4.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the cave floor can be slippery. Guided tours are available and recommended to learn about the archaeological findings in the cave.

Videos from My Journey in Antalya, Turkey (2023)

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Antalya, Turkey: Ratings

Kid-Friendly Activities in Antalya: 8/10 – Antalya is very family-friendly, featuring numerous resorts with kid-centric amenities like pools, water slides, and mini clubs. Attractions such as the Antalya Aquarium, Sandland, and the DinoPark also cater to children.

Nightlife in Antalya: 7/10 – Nightlife in Antalya is lively, with a range of options from beach bars and nightclubs to more relaxed lounges and cafes. Areas like Lara Beach and Kaleiçi (the old town) are popular spots for evening entertainment.

Sport in Antalya: 8/10 – Antalya offers a wide variety of sports activities, including water sports like jet skiing and parasailing, golf at world-class courses, and hiking in the Taurus Mountains. The region is also known for its excellent scuba diving spots.

Culture and Attractions in Antalya: 9/10 – Antalya is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including ancient sites like Aspendos and Perge, as well as museums such as the Antalya Museum. The old town of Kaleiçi offers a blend of historic architecture and charming streets.

Gastronomy in Antalya: 8/10 – The gastronomic scene in Antalya is diverse and high-quality, offering traditional Turkish cuisine, fresh seafood, and international dishes. There are numerous restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

Shopping in Antalya: 8/10 – Shopping in Antalya is excellent, with modern malls, traditional bazaars, and local markets. Visitors can find everything from luxury goods and designer brands to unique Turkish crafts and souvenirs.

Prices in Antalya: 7/10 – Antalya is reasonably priced, offering good value for accommodation, dining, and activities. It is generally more affordable than many Western European destinations, making it accessible for a range of budgets.

Average price for a hotel night: $100
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $12
Price of a beer: $4
Price of a coffee: $2.50

Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Antalya, Turkey

For those looking to explore beyond the turquoise waters, top day trips near Antalya present an opportunity to delve into the heart of the Turkish Riviera. The ancient ruins of Aspendos and the natural wonders of the Düden Waterfalls are just a taste of what lies beyond the city, each offering a unique adventure into the region’s natural beauty and historical depth.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Antalya accommodations span the spectrum from opulent resorts along the coastline to charming boutique hotels in the Old Town. Each provides a luxurious retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich culture and stunning landscapes of this Mediterranean paradise.

FAQ About Things to Do in Antalya, Turkey

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antalya
https://www.getyourguide.com/antalya-l172/