Antalya is the capital of the Turkish Riviera and the most popular Mediterranean destination in Turkey. 2.5 million inhabitants, 13 million tourists a year. Combines ancient ruins, Ottoman old town, modern beach resorts and the Taurus mountains as a backdrop.
🏛️ Kaleiçi — Old Town
Historic centre of Antalya, surrounded by Roman-Byzantine-Seljuk walls. Narrow cobbled streets, Ottoman wooden houses converted into boutique hotels and restaurants. Highlights:
- Hadrian's Gate (130 AD) — triumphal arch built for the Roman emperor's visit.
- Yivli Minare — fluted minaret (1230), Seljuk era, symbol of the city.
- Antalya Archaeological Museum — among the best in Turkey, ancient finds from the region.
- Hıdırlık Tower (Roman 2nd century) — sunset views over the harbour.
🏖️ Beaches
- Konyaaltı — long pebble beach west of the city, mountain backdrop.
- Lara — fine sand east of the city, where most luxury hotels are.
- Çıralı (80 km west) — protected sea turtle nesting beach, no big hotels.
- Kaputaş (180 km west) — hidden cove between cliffs, turquoise water.
🏛️ Ancient cities nearby
- Aspendos (50 km) — best preserved Roman theatre in the world (2nd century AD).
- Perge (20 km) — Greco-Roman city, hippodrome, agora.
- Side (75 km) — Apollo Temple by the sea, dramatic sunsets.
- Olympos (90 km) — ancient ruins in a forest, plus Yanartaş (Chimera eternal flames).
- Termessos (35 km, mountains) — only city Alexander the Great couldn't conquer.
💧 Düden Waterfalls
Two waterfalls: Upper Düden (10 km north of the city, in a forest park) and Lower Düden (in the city, falling directly into the sea — unique sight). Both free entry.
🚗 Transport
Antalya Airport (AYT) — 13 million passengers/year, direct flights to 200+ cities. To city centre: tram T1 (5 TL, 30 min) or taxi (80-100 TL). Long-distance buses: to Istanbul 12h, Cappadocia 9h.
📅 When to visit
April-May and September-October — ideal (warm, no crowds). June-August — very hot (35-40°C), beach perfect but crowded. November-March — mild winter (15°C), no swimming, low prices.