Antalya Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
Located on the southwest coast, this city is known for its historic Roman ruins, remarkable Mediterranean beaches, and the Taurus Mountains. It's a popular destination for both cultural heritage and seaside relaxation.
- Population
- 2.55 million
- Size
- 1412 square km
- Airport
- Antalya – Int'l
- Est. Visit Days
- 5 days
Overview
Antalya, a city on the Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and well-preserved ancient ruins. The city serves as a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year to its lovely old town, known as Kaleiçi, and its luxurious resorts. However, Antalya can become quite crowded during the peak tourist season, which might detract from the experience for some. Additionally, while the city offers a great mix of historical and modern attractions, some travelers might find it overly commercialized in certain areas. Despite these issues, Antalya remains a fascinating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Traffic & Transport
The city's traffic can be quite congested, especially during the peak tourist seasons, making navigation by car a less favorable option for visitors. The most efficient and convenient way to explore the city is by using public transportation, which includes buses and trams that cover the main areas of interest. Additionally, renting a bicycle can be a great choice for those looking to enjoy a more leisurely pace while taking in the sights. For longer distances or trips to nearby attractions, shared minibusses, known as dolmuş, are a cost-effective mode of transport. For those preferring to use taxi services, there are several reliable taxi companies operating in the city. Additionally, the use of taxi-booking apps like BiTaksi provides a convenient option for securing a ride and estimating fares.
History
Historically, the city was known as Attaleia, named after its founder, King Attalos II of Pergamon, in the 2nd century BC. It later came under Roman, Byzantine, and then Ottoman rule, serving as a significant Mediterranean port. The city's strategic location led to various conquests and it was a key target during the Crusades. In the 20th century, it became part of the Republic of Turkey following the Greco-Turkish War and the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923. Throughout its history, the city has been a melting pot of cultures, influencing its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Itinerary Sample
Explore Antalya over five days, experiencing its rich history, stunning landscapes, and magnificient culture.
– First day: Visit Kaleiçi, the historic city center, and explore Hadrian's Gate, Yivli Minare, and the Antalya Museum.
– Second day: Spend the day at Konyaaltı Beach and enjoy nearby cafes and parks.
– Third day: Take a day trip to the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos to see well-preserved Roman theaters and city structures.
– Fourth day: Explore Düden Waterfalls and relax in the surrounding park areas.
– Fifth day: Visit the Antalya Aquarium and shop at local markets for souvenirs.
Near Excursion
This city offers several interesting day trips within a short distance. Here are some suggestions:
– Perge at 18 km: Ancient ruins of a Roman city with a well-preserved stadium and theater.
– Aspendos at 47 km: Famous for its Roman theater, one of the best-preserved in the world.
– Termessos at 34 km: A well-preserved ancient city located in the Taurus Mountains.
– Phaselis at 58 km: Ruins of an ancient Lycian city with beautiful beaches and pine forests.
– Olympos at 85 km: Ancient ruins set in a picturesque valley, also known for its nearby beach.
Attraction
Known for its gorgeous beaches, ancient ruins, and lively culture, this city offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.
– Kaleiçi: Wander through narrow streets filled with Ottoman-era houses, shops, and cafes.
– Düden Waterfalls: Enjoy the scenic beauty of waterfalls cascading into the Mediterranean Sea.
– Hadrian's Gate: Explore this well-preserved Roman gate built in honor of Emperor Hadrian.
– Konyaaltı Beach: Relax on a long stretch of sandy beach with clear waters and mountain views.
– Antalya Museum: Discover artifacts from various periods, including Roman and Byzantine eras.
– Aspendos Theatre: Visit one of the best-preserved ancient Roman theaters, still used for performances today.
Activity
Antalya offers diverse activities from historical sites to natural wonders, suitable for various interests.
– Duden Waterfalls: Witness the impressive waterfalls cascading into the Mediterranean Sea.
– Olympos Cable Car: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and sea from Mount Tahtali.
– Saklikent Gorge: Hike through a narrow canyon with icy waters and towering cliffs.
– Koprulu Canyon National Park: Rafting adventures in a scenic canyon with crystal-clear waters.
– Termessos Ancient City: Explore the well-preserved ruins of an ancient Pisidian city set on a mountain peak.
Cuisine
The city offers a rich culinary experience with a blend of Mediterranean and Turkish flavors, featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Piyaz: A salad made with beans, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice.
– Kofte: Grilled meatballs made from minced meat, often served with rice or bread.
– Borek: Pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, baked or fried.
– Kabak Cicegi Dolmasi: Zucchini flowers stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat.
– Kunefe: A dessert made with shredded pastry, cheese, and soaked in sweet syrup.
– Dondurma: Traditional Turkish ice cream known for its chewy texture and unique flavors.
Shopping
For a memorable shopping experience, visit the Old Town (Kaleiçi) where you can explore narrow streets filled with boutique shops offering local handicrafts. The Antalya Bazaar is another must-visit for tourists, ideal for purchasing traditional Turkish textiles, spices, and jewelry. A popular gift to bring back from this city is a handmade Turkish carpet or a unique piece of Turkish delight, both reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Additionally, consider buying blue glass evil eye amulets, which are believed to protect against negative energies.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival, Turkey's oldest and most prestigious film festival, which showcases a range of Turkish and international films. The Antalya Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of artifacts from the Mediterranean and Anatolia regions, highlighting the area's rich archaeological history. The city also celebrates its beautiful local culture with traditional music and dance performances, particularly during the Antalya Cultural Festival. Additionally, the historic Aspendos Theatre, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater, hosts a variety of performances, including the annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.