Immersing yourself in the things to do in Antalya, from exploring the ancient ruins of Aspendos to lounging on the golden sands of Lara Beach, might leave you yearning to discover what lies beyond the city’s vibrant streets and picturesque coastline. Day trips from Antalya offer a splendid opportunity to delve deeper into Turkey’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes, extending your journey into the heart of the Anatolian peninsula.
Beyond Antalya, a world of activities awaits across Turkey, inviting you to experience the awe-inspiring Taurus Mountains, the tranquil beauty of the Köprülü Canyon, and the historical depth of the nearby ancient cities like Perge and Side. These adventures enrich your Turkish getaway, blending scenic wonders with archaeological treasures.
Choosing where to stay in Antalya is pivotal for those looking to balance days filled with exploration and nights of relaxation in this Mediterranean paradise. The right accommodation not only positions you perfectly for accessing Antalya’s myriad attractions but also serves as a comfortable retreat after a day of adventuring through Turkey’s captivating landscapes and historical sites.
Discover Best Day Trips from Antalya, Turkey
1. Aspendos, Turkey
Aspendos is renowned for its well-preserved Roman theater, one of the most magnificent ancient structures in the region. The site also includes other ruins like an agora, basilica, and Roman aqueduct.
Distance: Approximately 47 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Well-preserved Roman theater, agora, basilica, Roman aqueduct
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Theater Entrance: $5
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Roman Aqueduct, Ancient City Ruins
Travel Tip: Visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, and check if there are any performances scheduled in the theater.
2. Demre (Myra), Turkey
Demre, formerly known as Myra, is famous for its ancient Lycian rock tombs and the impressive St. Nicholas Church. The area is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into ancient civilizations.
Distance: Approximately 145 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lycian rock tombs, St. Nicholas Church
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- St. Nicholas Church: $4
- Lycian Tombs: $4
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rock Tombs, Myra Ruins
Travel Tip: Combine your trip with a visit to the sunken city of Kekova by boat for a full-day excursion.
3. Pamukkale, Turkey
Pamukkale, a natural wonder known for its white travertine terraces filled with mineral-rich thermal waters, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nearby, the ancient city of Hierapolis offers fascinating Roman ruins.
Distance: Approximately 235 km
Travel Time: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: White travertine terraces, thermal waters, ancient city of Hierapolis
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Pamukkale: $10
- Hierapolis: $5
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Travertine Terraces, Antique Pool
Travel Tip: Bring your swimsuit to bathe in the thermal pools, and don’t forget to visit the well-preserved Hierapolis ancient theater.
4. Olympos and Cirali, Turkey
Olympos and Cirali are two neighboring areas known for their beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and the natural phenomenon of the Chimera eternal flames. Olympos offers a more laid-back, bohemian vibe, while Cirali is quieter and family-friendly.
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, Chimera eternal flames
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Olympos Ruins: $3
- Chimera Flames: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Cirali Beach, Olympos Beach
Travel Tip: Visit the Chimera flames at night for an extraordinary experience and take a hike in Olympos National Park.
5. Kekova, Turkey
Kekova is a stunning region that includes a sunken ancient Lycian city, visible through the crystal-clear waters. A boat trip around the island offers views of the underwater ruins and picturesque landscapes.
Distance: Approximately 185 km
Travel Time: About 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Boat tour from Demre or Kaş
Main Attractions: Sunken ancient Lycian city, crystal-clear waters
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Boat Tour: $20-$50
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kekova Island, Simena Castle
Travel Tip: Opt for a boat tour that includes swimming stops to fully enjoy the beautiful waters of the region.
6. Side, Turkey
Side, a resort town, is famous for its ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater, temples, and city gates. The town also offers lovely beaches and a charming old town area.
Distance: Approximately 75 km
Travel Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient Greek and Roman ruins, amphitheater, temples, city gates
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Amphitheater: $8
- Apollo Temple: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Side Harbor, Side Beach
Travel Tip: Enjoy a sunset walk along the harbor and explore the charming shops and cafés in the old town.
7. Kas, Turkey
Kas is a picturesque coastal town known for its bohemian atmosphere, beautiful coves, and historical sites, including the ancient theater. It’s also a popular base for scuba diving and boat trips.
Distance: Approximately 190 km
Travel Time: About 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Bohemian atmosphere, beautiful coves, historical sites
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ancient Theater: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kas Marina, Kaputaş Beach
Travel Tip: Consider a boat trip to Kekova or a scuba diving excursion to explore the rich marine life and underwater ruins.
8. Termessos, Turkey
Termessos is a fascinating ancient city set in a national park, known for its stunning mountain-top setting and well-preserved ruins, including a theater and various temples.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient city ruins, mountain-top setting, theater, temples
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Termessos: $3
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Gulluk Mountain, Termessos Theater
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and hiking trails, and bring plenty of water, as it can get quite hot.
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Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/antalya-l172?activity_type=dayTrip
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