Antalya Travel Guide: Explore Turkey’s Stunning Mediterranean Gem

Welcome to our Antalya travel guide, your friendly companion to one of Turkey’s most stunning vacation spots. Antalya has a little bit of everything: all-inclusive resorts for when you just want to kick back, theme parks and buzzing malls for a bit of fun, and beaches so beautiful you’ll want to stay forever. But it’s not all sun and sea, there’s real history here too. Wander through Hadrian’s Gate, get lost in the charm of Kaleiçi’s old streets, or explore nearby ruins and waterfalls. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just need a break, Antalya’s got you covered.

History of Antalya

Any Turkey travel guide about a city should start with a brief historical overview, and Antalya is no exception. Originally known as Attalia, it was founded around 200 BC by King Attalus II of Pergamon. Under Roman rule, Antalya flourished, with landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and ancient cities developed during this time. The city’s rich historical layers make it a fascinating destination for visitors today.

Over the centuries, Antalya saw different rulers, but it enjoyed over 500 years of peace and stability during Ottoman rule, helping it grow into one of Turkey’s best cities. After World War I, Italy briefly occupied Antalya, but it was reclaimed during the Turkish War of Independence. In the 1960s and 1970s, tourism began to grow rapidly, with new infrastructure and luxury hotels transforming it into a major destination. Today, Antalya welcomes millions of visitors each year.

Best Time to Visit Antalya

When it comes to the best time to visit Antalya, the answer lies solely within your preferences. For example, if you would like to sunbathe and see why Antalya is known as the capital of the Turkish Riviera, then beaches such as Antalya Lara Beach are your go-to choice. Visit Antalya during the summer, relax and enjoy as the waves gently lap the shore.

On the other hand, winter can be a bit chilly and rainy, so indoor activities like visiting the Antalya Archaeological Museum, Antalya aquarium, and hammams are a great idea. And, for people asking what to do in Antalya during the spring and autumn months, a bit of sightseeing and exploring the Antalya province and ancient cities is always a great choice.

Weather in Antalya

We can try to answer a common question among travellers – is Antalya worth visiting throughout the year? Well, besides the obvious appeal of summer months, December marks the start of winter with cooler temperatures averaging between 10 and 15 degrees. December offers you a unique experience with festive celebrations and local traditions, which will let you dive more into Turkish culture.

Spring months such as March and April can be the best time to avoid the scorching summer sun and overcrowded places, so you will also be able to take full advantage of much cheaper accommodation prices.

Most Beautiful Places in Antalya You Can’t Miss

There’s truly no such thing as a bad time to visit Antalya. With its incredible mix of history, nature, and seaside charm, the city offers unforgettable sights no matter when you go. Here are some of the most beautiful places in Antalya that you simply can’t miss during your trip:

• Hadrian’s Gate: Built in 130 CE in honour of Roman Emperor Hadrian, this impressive structure is one of Antalya’s most valuable historical monuments. It also serves as a main entrance into the charming Kaleiçi Old Town.
• Kaleici (Old Town): The heart of historic Antalya, Kaleiçi is packed with narrow streets, ancient architecture, and fascinating landmarks like Hidirlik Tower, the Yivli Minare Mosque, and the Kesik Minaret. Walking here feels like stepping through time.
• Düden Waterfalls: Located just 10 km from the city centre, the Düden Waterfalls are a must-visit natural escape. With breathtaking cascades and refreshing mist, they offer a peaceful break from the city bustle.
• Antalya Archaeological Museum: One of Turkey’s largest museums, it showcases artefacts from ancient Pamphylia, Pisidia, and Lycia. It’s a must for anyone interested in Antalya’s deep historical roots.
• Lara Beach: A pristine beach with soft golden sands and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Lara Beach is one of the most stunning coastal spots in Antalya.

Things to Do in Antalya

From lively nightlife to delicious local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Antalya and activities for everyone. Here are some highlights:

Antalya offers a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and vibrant culture, making it an unforgettable destination.

Stay Connected: Best eSIM Options for Antalya

Eliminate any roaming charges and connectivity issues with the best eSIM Turkey options. Navigate your way around local shops, beaches, and historical monuments, as well as plan trips and see how far from Istanbul to Antalya in a split second. Esimatic’s versatile data plans are suitable for all types of travellers and offer excellent coverage. Explore the data plans and enjoy extensive connectivity without any glitches in quality.

How to Get Around Antalya

Given the amenities and historical spots, it’s important to understand the best ways to get around. Navigating Antalya is straightforward, and here are a few options you can use:

Public Transport: Trams and Buses

Although there is no metro in Antalya, public transportation is available via trams and buses. The city is well-connected, so make sure to get an Antalya Kart. This card is valid for all public buses and trams. It’s a credit card-sized plastic card that you can top up with as much money as you need. It’s convenient if you’re planning to visit Antalya again soon.

Taxis and Car Rentals

Taxis in Antalya are generally affordable, though fares can increase late at night. Stick to official taxis with proper signage to avoid confusion. For those looking for more flexibility, car rentals provide an easy way to get to the city from Antalya International Airport and plan excursions to other places, like Marmaris or beyond.

Walking and Cycling by the Coast

Exploring the smaller areas and beaches in Antalya is best done on foot or by bike. If you want to capture the stunning beauty of the coastline or experience the narrow streets of Old Town, nothing compares to the freedom of walking or cycling. It’s the perfect way to truly appreciate the charm of this coastal city.

Where to Stay in Antalya

Accommodation can make or break your experience in Antalya. To help you decide where to stay, here are some recommendations based on your preferences.

Best Areas to Stay for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time in Antalya or you want to dive into Turkish culture, Kaleici is a great choice. This is the oldest part of the city, with well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings that showcase the charm of Antalya’s past. For other central options, consider Lara and Konyaaltı, which offer easy access to restaurants, bars, seaside attractions, and nightlife.

Budget-Friendly Neighbourhoods and Hostels

For budget-conscious travellers, Konyaaltı is a fantastic area, offering affordable apartments and local attractions. There are also plenty of hostels, with prices starting around €20 per night, depending on the season. These cost-effective choices enable you to experience Antalya without exceeding your budget.

Luxury Resorts and All-Inclusive Hotels

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, Antalya is home to numerous all-inclusive hotels and resorts. These offer a wide range of amenities, including cafes, restaurants, pool bars, kids’ clubs, water sports, spas, and fitness centres. With the all-inclusive concept, you can enjoy everything without extra charges. This makes them ideal for families who want to relax and enjoy all-in-one convenience. Some resorts even offer airport shuttles, making your arrival easier. Just be sure to check your Antalya Resort Guide to confirm what’s included in your package before booking.

Budget Tips for Antalya

Given that there are plenty of things to do in Antalya, you need to have a smart budget strategy and avoid overspending. Here are some useful tips that can help you save money and redirect it to other activities.

Save Money with Public Transport and AntalyaKart

Antalya is well connected with its public transport, so you won’t do too much wrong with choosing its trams and buses. You can get your AntalyaKArt from vending machines around the tramway and big bus stations. Depending on how long you plan on using the card, prices start from €1.3 for adults.

Eat Local at Budget-Friendly Restaurants and Markets

You can always try out local delicacies like doner and gozleme and enjoy their unique flavours without overspending on fancy dishes. Local food markets and street foods are perfectly reliable, so you don’t need to ask yourself the question, ‘Is Antalya safe?’

Enjoy Free or Low-Cost Attractions

You don’t need to overdo it while on vacation in Antalya – simple activities such as visiting the beaches, wandering the streets of Kaleici or visiting scenic attractions such as the Duden Waterfalls will create memories to last a lifetime.

Packing Tips for Antalya

The days building up to the travel bring one dilemma for travellers – what to pack for the trip. Well, the answer is very simple – it all depends on the time of the year you go to Antalya:

• Summer/Winter: The May weather in Antalya is hot, and it stays that way until September, so during the hot summer months, light clothing will do the job. Winters are not that cold, but if you intend to visit then, jackets and gloves are a must, so always do your research on what the weather is in Antalya before going.
• Comfortable shoes: We assume that you won’t spend your time at a boat party in Antalya. Ancient cities wait for you to explore them, so don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes.
• Swimwear: A no-brainer, really. Regardless of whether you want to enjoy hotel pools or the beautiful Mediterranean beaches, swimwear is a must.

Safety and Scams to Avoid in Antalya

We can slowly wrap up this guide by mentioning a few safety tips and scams to be on the lookout for, which are to be expected in a popular place like Antalya:

• Taxi: Avoid unlicensed taxi drivers – stick to the ones that have a company plate – look for yellow cabs with taxi company details displayed.
• Artefact scams: There are certain fraudsters who will show you antique artefacts and coins and try to sell them at discounted rates.
• Restaurants: Small local restaurants that serve traditional food are a guaranteed enjoyment. Big and flashy restaurants with hostesses inviting you in mean one thing: inflated bills.