General Information
Located on the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye, Antalya is a stunning city known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and luxurious resorts. Often referred to as the “Turkish Riviera,” Antalya is one of Türkiye’s most popular tourist destinations, offering a blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. The city is also known for its old town (Kaleiçi) with cobbled streets, historic mosques, and vibrant markets. With a Mediterranean climate, Antalya is a year-round destination for beach lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Location
Antalya is located on the southern coast of Türkiye, along the Mediterranean Sea. It is nestled between the Taurus Mountains to the north and the Mediterranean coast to the south. The city enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it a perfect beach destination.
Nearby Destinations:
- Perge: 17 km (30-minute drive)
- Aspendos: 45 km (1-hour drive)
- Kemer: 40 km (45-minute drive)
- Olympos: 80 km (1.5-hour drive)
- Termessos: 30 km (45-minute drive)
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Antalya Airport (AYT): The city’s international airport, located just 13 km from the city center, serves both domestic and international flights.
- By Bus:
- Antalya Bus Terminal: The bus station is well-connected to other major cities in Türkiye.
- By Car:
- Antalya is easily accessible by road from cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Fethiye through highways like D400 and E90.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Ideal for sightseeing with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Autumn (September – November): Perfect for beach vacations, with warm weather and calm seas.
- Summer (June – August): High season with hot temperatures, perfect for beach lovers, but also crowded.
- Winter (December – February): Mild weather, but many tourist facilities may close.
Key Festivals & Events:
- Antalya International Film Festival (October): A prestigious event showcasing global cinema.
- Antalya Jazz Festival (September): A popular event for jazz lovers.
- Kaleiçi Old Town Festival (June): Celebrates local arts and culture in the historic heart of the city.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort: A luxurious all-inclusive resort with stunning views and top-notch amenities.
- Rixos Premium Belek: A five-star resort offering an all-inclusive experience with luxurious rooms and extensive facilities.
- Mid-range:
- Akra Hotel: Located near the sea, this hotel offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains.
- The Marmara Antalya: A beachfront hotel with modern amenities and a stylish atmosphere.
- Budget:
- Antalya Hostel & Guesthouse: Affordable accommodations with great service in the city center.
- Oscar Boutique Hotel: A budget-friendly option with central location and comfortable rooms.
Top Attractions
- Kaleiçi (Old Town): The historical heart of Antalya, featuring cobblestone streets, ancient mosques, and the impressive Hadrian’s Gate.
- Antalya Museum: A world-class museum showcasing ancient artifacts from the region, including items from Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos.
- Düden Waterfalls: A stunning natural site where the Düden River cascades into the Mediterranean, offering a peaceful retreat.
- Perge Ancient City: An ancient Roman city with impressive ruins like the stadium, theater, and gates.
- Aspendos Theatre: A well-preserved Roman theater famous for its acoustic properties and still used for performances today.
- Konyaaltı Beach: A popular beach with crystal-clear waters and various cafes and bars along the coastline.
- Lara Beach: A long stretch of sandy beach with luxurious resorts and plenty of activities.
- Olympos Ancient City & Chimera: An ancient city with ruins and the fascinating Chimera, where natural flames burn from the ground.
- Termessos Ancient City: A hidden gem high in the Taurus Mountains, offering spectacular ruins and breathtaking views.
- Antalya Marina: A beautiful marina with restaurants, cafes, and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Getting Around
- Public Transportation:
- Trams: Antalya has a reliable tram network that covers major areas like Kaleiçi, Konyaaltı Beach, and Muratpaşa.
- Buses: Public buses are operated by Antalya Metropolitan Municipality, providing access to the city and nearby towns.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing:
- Taxis are readily available throughout the city. You can use the BiTaksi app for easier ride-sharing.
- Renting a Car:
- Renting a car is a great option if you plan to visit nearby ancient cities or beaches. Rental services are available at the airport and around the city.
Local Cuisine
Antalya offers a delicious array of Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, meze, and local herbs.
- Piyaz: A traditional Antalya bean salad, made with garlic, tahini, and vinegar.
- Kumpir: A baked potato stuffed with a variety of toppings such as cheese, salads, and sausages.
- Lahmacun: A Turkish pizza-like flatbread, topped with ground meat, herbs, and spices.
- Antalya Döner: A unique version of the popular döner kebab, usually served with rice or flatbread.
- Seafood: Being a coastal city, fresh fish and seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus or sea bass, are highly recommended.
Best Restaurants & Food Spots:
- 7 Mehmet Restaurant: Known for its traditional Turkish cuisine and seafood dishes with a modern twist.
- Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant: A luxury restaurant offering a wide range of Mediterranean and international dishes.
- Pasa Bey Kebap: Famous for its kebabs and meze platters.
Shopping
- Kaleiçi Bazaar: A charming market in the Old Town, selling handmade goods, spices, and traditional Turkish carpets.
- MarkAntalya Mall: A large shopping mall with international brands and local boutiques.
- TerraCity Shopping Mall: One of Antalya’s most modern shopping centers, with a wide range of international brands.
- Antalya Bazaar: A local market where you can buy olive oil, local sweets, and Turkish handicrafts.
- Hıdırlık Tower and Beachfront Shops: A scenic spot with many shops selling artisan goods and souvenirs.
Nightlife
Antalya’s nightlife offers a mix of lively bars, beach clubs, and nightclubs:
- Kaleiçi Bars: The old town is full of cozy bars offering cocktails and local drinks.
- Aura Club: One of the city’s most famous nightclubs, offering electronic dance music.
- Beach Clubs: Konyaaltı Beach and Lara Beach are home to many lively beach clubs offering drinks, music, and stunning views.
- Muratpaşa: A district with numerous bars and pubs where you can enjoy the nightlife.
Day Trips from Antalya
- Perge: Explore the ancient ruins of Perge, with its Roman bathhouse and stadium.
- Aspendos: Visit the well-preserved Roman theater of Aspendos.
- Kemer: A charming seaside town with beaches and natural parks.
- Olympos & Chimera: Visit the ancient city and see the natural flames of Chimera.
- Termessos: A hike through ancient ruins with spectacular views in the Taurus Mountains.