Situated on the southwest coast of Turkey’s Anatolia peninsula, Antalya is a resort city known for its stunning beaches, ancient Roman ruins, and the historic Kaleiçi quarter. Among the most popular things to do in Antalya include a visit to the nearby archeological sites showcasing well-preserved excavated settlements, a trip to the picturesque national parks, and a relaxing day frolicking on its crystal clear beaches.
Within Düden Park lies a cluster of waterfalls that charts its course through the Taurus Mountains before spilling over a cliff down to the Mediterranean Sea. Upper Düden, also known as Alexader Falls, is located 10km north of Antalya's city center. Lower Düden is closer just 8km away from the city and near Karpuzkaldiran Beach. The Düden Waterfalls is bordered by lush gardens perfect for trekking and picnicking and natural caves that swimmers can explore.
Hadrian's Gate is a Roman triumphal arch erected in 130 AD to commemorate the visit of Emperor Hadrian to Antalya, then known as Attaleia. With three symmetrical archways made of white marble, this ancient structure serves as the main entrance to the historic Kaleiçi quarter. The gate is located just off the Atatürk Boulevard accessible by bus and the Nostalji heritage tram line that runs from Antalya Museum until Lara Beach.
Located west of the city center, Konyaaltı Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Antalya. It is recognized as a Blue Flag beach, acknowledged by the Foundation for Environmental Education for its clean waters and eco-friendly standards. This pebble beach is a 35-minute drive from the city center and a 50-minute drive from another local favorite, Lara Beach. There is an aquapark and plenty of Antalya hotels near Konyaaltı Beach.
Kaleiçi is Antalya’s beloved old town located along the coast of the Gulf of Antalya. This historic quarter is dotted with structures dating as far back as the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. Much of these ancient buildings and traditional Turkish homes have been extensively restored and are now quaint shops, hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Kaleiçi can be entered either through Uzun Çarşı Sokak or from Hadrian Castle Gate and is within walking distance from Kale Kapısı, the city’s main square where the famous Saat Kulesi clock tower stands.
One of Turkey’s biggest and most important institutions, the Antalya Museum specializes in the history of the Mediterranean and Pamphylia regions in the Anatolia peninsula. Artifacts from the Stone and Bronze Ages as well as from classical antiquity are showcased in the museum’s 13 display halls and open galleries. Antalya Museum has a scenic seafront location, less than 3km away from the historic Kaleiçi old town.
Kurşunlu Waterfall lies within a nature park located in the town of Aksu, 19km east of Antalya’s city center. The waterfall and picnic area sits on 33 hectares of land teeming with a variety of flora and fauna. The crystal clear waters of Kurşunlu drops 18m into a small pool inhabited by fresh water fish, tortoises, and crabs. West of the waterfall is a restored mill originally built 200 years ago by villagers residing in the area.
Built by Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Kayqubad I in the 13th century, the Yivli Minaret Mosque or Alaaddin Mosque is one of the first Islamic monuments in Antalya. The mosque takes its name from its grooved minaret that represents a unique type of Anatolian Turkish Architecture. The fluted minaret has come to symbolize the city, so much so that professional football club Antalyaspor put it on their official logo. The Yivli Minaret Mosque is located inside the Kaleiçi quarter near the famous Saat Kulesi clock tower.
Just outside Antalya’s historic city center of Kaleiçi is Karaalioğlu Park, a large public space offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Antalya and the Beydağları mountains. The park is home to the municipal city theater, the mayor's office, and one of the few surviving monuments from the Roman period, the Hidirlik Tower. On weekends, Karaalioğlu Park is packed with locals taking leisurely walks, doing some light shopping, and enjoying the cafes.
Hidirlik Tower dates back to the 2nd century AD and is said to have been erected by the Romans as part of the city’s fortifications. It is believed to have served as a tomb, a lighthouse overlooking the ancient harbor, and even a church at some point. Hidirlik Tower is perched on a clifftop at the end of Hesapçı Sokak street, where the borders of the Kaleiçi old town district and Karaalioğlu Park meet.
Situated just 2km from Konyaaltı Beach, Antalya Aquarium houses 40 thematic exhibits depicting rivers, oceans, and lakes as well as a 131m tunnel tank. Among the top attractions in the complex are the Snow World and Ice Museum, the WildPark tropical reptile house, and the Oceanride XD Cinema virtual sailing experience. There’s a large souvenir shop and there are several dining options near the entrance and the terrace area of Antalya Museum.
Antalya offers the perfect blend of historical attractions and leisurely activities. In the old Ottoman quarter of Kaleiçi stands the antique Hadrian’s Gate, Hidirlik Tower, and the Yivli and Kesik Minarets. There is an abundance of ancient cities on the outskirts of the city center to explore. Antalya also holds Turkey's record number of Blue Flag beaches, which are recognized for their pristine water quality as well as dedication to environmental sustainability.
Antalya weather is typically warm and dry during the summer months of June to August, making it the ideal season for beach hopping. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are shoulder seasons perfect for outdoor activities like walking tours, trekking, and even rafting or canoeing. There are also significantly fewer tourists so it is easier to book Antalya flights and accommodations during these months.
Stick to Antalya hotels in the heart of Kaleiçi quarter if it’s your first time visiting this coastal town. There are plenty of dining and shopping options in the old town plus Antalya’s historic landmarks are within walking distance. For more affordable accommodations, head to Konyaalti Beach just a few kilometers away from the city center.