With over 200 Blue Flag beaches stretched along the Turquoise Coast, Antalya caters to all types of travelers seeking a memorable sunny getaway. This Mediterranean paradise delights with ancient ruins, stunning scenery, and exciting attractions.
Antalya’s Fascinating Ancient Ruins
Antalya provides a window into ancient history with its well-preserved Roman monuments and ruins. The iconic Hadrian’s Gate was built to honor the visit of Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD. This impressive triumphal arch has survived centuries and remains an iconic symbol of the city today.
Just 15km east of Antalya city center lies Aspendos, which houses the best preserved theater from antiquity. This Roman theater could seat over 15,000 spectators and still hosts concerts and performances to this day thanks to its incredible acoustics.
Other notable ancient sites near Antalya include:
- Perge – This ancient Greek and later Roman city is filled with crumbling pillars and elaborate mosaics. A 15,000-seat theater and impressive monumental fountain are top highlights.
- Termessos – Perched dramatically in a rugged mountain valley, this well-preserved antique city was strategically built as a hideout from ancient wars. Wander through old ruins and take in gorgeous views from its mountaintop setting.
- Phaselis – This ancient harbor city has Roman ruins dotting its coastline, including baths, aqueducts, temples and a theater. Walk among the sea-washed ruins for a glimpse into the past.
- Olympos – Only about 40km from Antalya, these flames cover an expansive ancient city near the beach. See Lycian tombs carved right into the mountainside cliff for an unusual sight.
Exploring these ancient sites offers a glimpse into the Lycian, Greek, Persian, and Roman influences that have shaped Antalya’s captivating history over millennia.
Beaches with Turquoise Waters
The prime swimming beach Konyaalti lies just west of Antalya city center, with the dramatic Beydagları mountains in the backdrop. This long stretch of fine sand and pebbles has earned Blue Flag certification for its clean, safe shoreline. Beachfront bars and restaurants line the seaside promenade known as the Konyaalti Sahil Yolu.
Lara Beach is another popular spot located by forested cliffs near the resort town of Kundu. This beautiful golden sand beach has ample space for sunbathing and relaxed swimming in calm waters. Beach clubs dot the area, many offering rental services for umbrellas, loungers, jet skis and paddle boats.
Heading east along the coast, you’ll come across pristine beaches like Belek, Side, and Alanya dotting the shoreline. The long stretch of fine golden sand lined with beach clubs and backed by lush green parks makes Belek a family favorite. World class golf courses and resorts also surround this area, adding to its draw.
The quaint old town of Side combines ancient ruins with relaxing beaches, creating a fusion of history and seaside fun. The eastern beach is the main swimming and sunbathing spot, while the western beach is an archeological site with ancient walls and gates.
And Alanya delights with coves like Cleopatra beach tucked below towering seaside cliffs. The golden sand beach stretches 300m with crystal clear waters, giving it a private paradise feel though it gets crowded in summer. Alanya is also famous for Damlatas cave beach, a unique spot to swim in illuminated seas inside a cave.
With calm turquoise waters ideal for swimming and powder soft sand, Antalya’s beautiful beaches guarantee endless sunshine and relaxation. The variety along the extensive coastline means you’re bound to find the perfect spot matching your interests, whether you seek lively crowds or secluded coves.
Exciting Things to Do
Beyond soaking up the seaside atmosphere, Antalya offers an array of exciting activities for families and solo travelers alike.
For thrills, rides and slides, waterpark highlights include:
- Adaland Aquapark – Attractions range from the heart-pumping Space Hole slide to areas dedicated just for small children’s fun. This massive waterpark promises an entertaining day out.
- The Land of Legends Kingdom – As one of Europe’s largest theme parks, it contains a stunning aqua park with record-breaking slides up to 80 meters tall! Adrenaline junkies will love this exhilarating day out.
- Aqualand – With multi-lane racer slides, a wave pool, lazy river and toddler spot, this popular park offers water fun for all ages.
Amusement park fans can scream their way through fast rollercoasters and rides at Varşova Park or the Antalya Expo Center’s Viapark. These dry parks promise on thrills and family entertainment.
The unique Karain Cave lets you explore underground stalactites dating back to the Paleolithic era, shedding light on prehistoric life. For insight into traditional Turkish culture, watch local artisans demonstrate pottery-making, jewelry-crafting, and glass-blowing skills.
Shopping enthusiasts can browse for carpets, lamps, spices, and handicrafts in Antalya’s bustling bazaars. Some top options include:
- Hadrian’s Gate Bazaar – Find colorful textiles, souvenirs and handmade crafts just outside the iconic Roman arch.
- Kaleici Bazaar – This charming bazaar in the Old Town sells quality leather goods, ceramics and jewelry. Haggle for a deal on unique Turkish keepsakes.
- Balik Pazari – Located in the city center, this lively market offers fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables along with clothing and souvenirs.
After the retail therapy, reward yourself to delicious Turkish kebabs, baklava pastries, or refreshing dondurma ice cream.
With lively yacht marinas, buzzing nightclubs, championship golf courses, and luxury spas – Antalya truly offers endless options for quality holiday fun and entertainment.
Where to Stay in Antalya
Antalya provides every kind of accommodation from luxury resorts to budget pensions. Here are some top areas and options to consider:
- Lara Beach – The beachfront neighborhood along the Antalya coastline hosts numerous 5-star resorts and spas. Some luxury options include the IC Hotels Resort, Regnum Carya Golf & Spa Resort, and Barut Lara.
- Kaleici – This charming old town puts you amidst Roman-era walls and historical buildings. Boutique hotels here include Hadrianus Hotel housed in a 300-year-old Ottoman mansion.
- Belek – All-inclusive resorts line the fabulous golfing beaches of Belek. Top picks include the Susesi Luxury Resort, Cornelia Diamond, and IC Hotels Resort.
- Side – For apartment living, this quiet resort town has pensions and low-rise rental units near the beach, shops and historical ruins.
- Çamyuva – North of the city along the coast, this village offers apartment living with nearby shops, markets and laidback restaurants.
Accommodation options truly cater to all budgets and interests in Antalya. Consult price comparison sites to find discounted hotel deals and the right area matching your holiday priorities.
Plan Your Dream Antalya Holiday
The best time to visit Antalya falls between April and October when temperatures are pleasantly warm. This coincides with the drier summer months that bring peak crowds. For sightseeing in cooler weather, spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
The average cost per day is 100-150 USD per person when sharing accommodation. Here are some sample average costs in Antalya:
- Hotel room – $100-200 per night
- Dinner for two – $20-40
- Museum entrance – $10
- Local bus ride – $1-2
- Turkish coffee – $2-3
Booking a package with return flights and hotel included often gives the best value. Websites like [Website] provide discounted all-inclusive and last-minute deals to top Antalya resorts.
Final tips for an amazing holiday include:
- Getting travel insurance
- Using public buses for affordable transportation
- Carrying Turkish lira for the best exchange rates
- Bringing appropriate clothing and sun protection for the beach
- Trying local street food for authentic culinary experiences
With jaw-dropping scenery, family-friendly attractions, luxurious resorts and fascinating historic sites – Antalya truly makes for an unforgettable Mediterranean getaway!
Start Planning Your Turkish Dream Holiday!
After reading about the amazing blend of ancient wonders and natural beauty that await in Antalya, start looking into the best deals for your perfect beach vacation.
Use package holiday sites to browse top hotels and find discounts on flights. Lock in your booking to start counting down the days until you’re relaxing on golden shores under sunny Turkish skies!
The options for an incredible Antalya holiday are endless. With a little planning, you could soon be living your best life on the Turkish Riviera!
