Antalya is a large Turkish city and a famous resort on the Mediterranean coast with a rich history, developed tourist infrastructure and opportunities to leave the city to visit and explore the surrounding attractions.
Antalya, which is convenient, has a large international airport, abundance of accommodation facilities, the opportunity to get acquainted with the city and travel outside it with excursions.
Antalya is also famous for its beaches and historical values, including unique architectural monuments and the old town with the old port. In addition, Antalya has museums, waterfalls, panoramic parks, places for entertainment and walking, as well as a cable car that lifts guests up the mountain.
All this makes Antalya a popular tourist destination, suitable for people of all ages, including families with children and for holidays in Antalya during the non-tourist season (winter, autumn and spring).
Antalya Beaches
Within the city of Antalya there are sandy, pebble and rocky beaches equipped with platforms. There are both free beaches and paid beach clubs. There is also a women-only beach.
Many beaches of the city and province of Antalya have a Blue Flag award and all the necessary beach infrastructure.
One of the longest and most visited beaches in Antalya is Lara beach and Konyaalti beach.
In the historical center of the city there is a picturesque Mermerli beach and the beach under the rocks of Adalar. Learn more about beaches, coast and hotels near beaches in Antalya...
Lara
Konyaalty
Mermerli
Adalar
Antalya Old Town (Kaleichi)
The old town of Antalya, known as Kaleici (Kaleiçi) is a pearl, the historical center and the heart of Antalya, which stands out with sights, museums and the remains of fortress walls, inside which, on narrow streets, you can see buildings of different eras.
Today, most of the buildings in the Old City of Antalya are adapted for shops, souvenir shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, nightclubs and accommodation facilities (hotels, apartments)
The significant sights of Kaleichi include:
- remains of defensive structures: walls with towers, Hadrian's Gate, Clock Tower and Hidirlik Tower;
- Kecili Park with a place to relax, a fountain, a sculpture of two goats, as well as observation terraces and a glass observation deck, which offer gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea, the old port, the beach of Mermerli, the rocky coast of Antalya and the mountains;
- Yivli Minaret Mosque (Yivliminare Cami), famous for the detached high Yivli minaret;
- Mevlevihane Museum (Mevlevihane Müzesi), consisting of the Mevlevi dervish monastery with an exhibition of dervish items and clothing, a hammam, two mausoleums, a cemetery, a madrasah and ruins;
- Shehzade Korkut Mosque (Şehzâde Korkut Camii), of which the Kesik Minaret is a part, and which is a historically rich building functioning as a mosque-museum. The mosque has absorbed the traces of seven civilizations, which can be seen both outside and near the mosque, and inside;
- Ethnographic Museum of Antalya (Antalya Etnografya Müzesi), consisting of two 19th-century mansions that contain Turkish-Islamic artifacts and interior items reflecting Antalya's home life in the period of the Ottoman Empire;
- the Museum of Suna and Inan Kyrach (Suna-Inan Kıraç Kaleiçi Müzesi) is an ethnographic house-museum consisting of two historical buildings with expositions reflecting Turkish traditions and the spirit of Turkish folk culture with its most striking elements;
- street with umbrellas. More about the old town of Kaleichi…
Antalya Old Port
The Old Port (Kaleiçi Yat Limanı Antalya) is a Roman-era harbor in Antalya, located under the former fortress walls and is now one of the main attractions of the city.
Today, the port is, for the most part, a tourist area with places for walking and recreation, restaurants, a park with a playground, an amphitheater, shops, monuments, museums, a small Iskele mosque with a spring, panoramic elevator with a beautiful observation deck, travel agencies, parking and toilets. More about the old port of Antalya…
The walls at the old port of Antalya
Antalya Harbor is surrounded by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, rocky shores and high fortress walls.
You can climb the wall and admire the views of the harbor, the sea and the city of Antalya. More about Antalya walls and climbing the wall…
Antalya Parks and Waterfalls
Antalya is rich in its park areas, suitable for walking and relaxing. Some Antalya parks offer beautiful panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Antalya coast and the mountains.
Also in the city there are two impressive picturesque waterfalls.
Karaalioglu Park is a large shady park that is located in the very center of Antalya and is an oasis during walks around the city.
The park has beautiful walking areas, panoramic terraces with views of the Mediterranean Sea, a fountain, monuments and sculptures, ruins of an ancient tower, restaurants and a beach. More about Karaalioglu Park…
The Upper Duden Waterfalls (Yukarı Dyuden Şelalesi) is a picturesque cascade of several waterfalls that flow into the Duden River from a rocky cliff designed as a grotto (cave), where you can walk behind the waterfall and admire the views of water flows from the back of the waterfall.
A park with vegetation has been created around the waterfall, there are rocky steps and terraces from which picturesque views of the waterfalls open. There are also places for recreation and picnics, a cafe, a souvenir shop and toilets in the park.
Entrance to the Upper Waterfalls Park is paid. Learn more about the Upper Duden Waterfalls…
The Lower Duden Waterfall (Aşağı Düden Şelalesi) is a 40-meter waterfall that falls with a powerful stream from the steep rocky shore directly into the Mediterranean Sea.
The Lower Duden Waterfall is located in the Duden Park (Düden Parkı) of the same name, which in itself is a wonderful area for walking and relaxing.
There are panoramic terraces in the park near the waterfall.
Duden Park and the Lower Waterfalls are free. Learn more about the Lower Duden Waterfalls and the park…
Beach Park (Beach Park Antalya) and Atatürk Cultural Park (Atatürk Kültür Parkı), which, in fact, are parts of one large park area located near the eastern part of Konyaalti Beach.
In the Beach Park: places for walking and recreation, a bike path, lawns where people come for picnics, playgrounds, cafes and restaurants, free toilets, places to charge phones, free Wi-Fi.
In the Ataturk Culture Park: abundance of greenery, places for walking and recreation, a bike path, a local walk of fame, a miniature copy of the Mayan pyramid, a pond, a small waterfall, a cafe, a concert hall and the Glass Pyramid exhibition center where festivals and cultural events take place. From the park, on a rocky cliff, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
You can go up and down from the Beach Park to the Ataturk Park using one of two free panoramic elevators, or on foot, including stairs.
Kepez Park (Kepez Belediyesi Kent Ormanı) is a shady large park that attracts attention with the Ataturk Waterfall with fountains and a large sculpture "Ataturk mask" (Atatürk Maskı), cafes, areas for walks and picnics.
The terraces of the park offer panoramic views of Antalya, the sea and the mountains. More about Antalya parks for walking, recreation and entertainment…
The cable car in Antalya is the best observation point of the city
Tunektepe (Tünektepe) - a mountain whose height is 618 meters above sea level, and which is the best and highest observation deck of Antalya.
The mountain can be reached by the Tunektepe cable car (Tünektepe Teleferik).
At the top of Tunektepe, toilets are equipped, there is a souvenir shop, a restaurant and a cafe, as well as observation platforms at different levels, from which stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the city of Antalya and its surroundings, sea waters, mountains and Turtle (Mouse) Island open. Learn more about the Tunektepe cable car, ascent and views…
Other museums in Antalya
Ataturk House Museum (Antalya Atatürk Evi ve Müzesi), located in a reconstructed two-story mansion where Gazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk once stayed during his visits to Antalya.
In the house-museum with recreated rooms with furniture, photographs and some personal belongings, there are expositions dedicated to the visits of the famous revolutionary and the first president of the Republic of Turkey, Ataturk, to the city. More about the Ataturk House Museum…
Antalya Archaeological Museum (Antalya Arkeoloji Müzesi), considered one of the leading museums not only in Turkey, but also around the world, and is one of the masterpieces of its kind.
The museum is dedicated to three important Mediterranean ancient civilizations "Lycia", "Pamphylia" and "Pisidia", who lived within the borders of the Antalya region, which was one of the first places where human traces are visible in Anatolia.
Historical artifacts (sculptures, sarcophagi, vases, coins, icons, mosaics and other items) from the Lower Paleolithic to the Roman period are exhibited in the halls of the museum. More about the Antalya Archaeological Museum…
Perge or Perga is an ancient city founded in the Bronze Age and from which ruins now remain, which are one of the outstanding archaeological sites of Turkey.
Today it is an open-air archaeological museum, on the territory of which there are remains of walls, gates and towers, basilicas, nymphaeums, baths, palaestra, propylaea, agora, some buildings and shops, the main street with a water canal, as well as an ancient stadium and theater.
The ruins of the ancient city of Perge (Perge Antik Kenti) are located within the borders of Aksu District in Antalya Province, 17 kilometers northeast of Antalya city center. Learn more about Perge and how to visit…
The best streets and squares of Antalya
Of the best and most visited streets and squares in Antalya , the following stand out
Ataturk Boulevard (Atatürk caddesi) is one of the most beautiful streets of Antalya, which runs along the old town of Kaleici.
Ataturk Street includes a picturesque area with tall palm trees and flower beds with bridges thrown over them, which separates the roadway from a wide pedestrian zone.
On the street there are sculptures created with a face of humor in a pseudo-antique style, Karakash Mosque, cafes, coffee shops and restaurants with outdoor tables. Ataturk Boulevard is also one of the best shopping streets in Antalya, as various shops and boutiques, including well-known Turkish and world brands, are located along the street. More about Ataturk Boulevard…
Jumhuriyet Street, which translates as Republic Street (Cumhuriyet Caddesi) is one of the busiest and most interesting streets in Antalya.
Jumhuriyet Street has a length of about a kilometer. It runs in the historical center of Antalya, along the old town of Kaleici.
On the street: pedestrian zones, places for walking, greenery, there are cafes, restaurants, shops and currency exchangers.
Along the street there are: the Old Market (Old Bazaar), a small square with a fountain and a monument to King Attalus II of Pergamon. More about Jumhuriyet Street and nearby streets…
Republic Square (Cumhuriyet Square, Cumhuriyet Meydanı) is the main square and the heart of Antalya, where there is a monumental monument to the famous historical figure and founder of the Republic of Turkey - Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
There are also observation terraces on the square, which offer panoramic views of the old town of Antalya, the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea. More about Republic Square…
Konyaalti Street (Konyaaltı Caddesi), which has a length of one and a half kilometers, and runs from Jumhuriyet Street to the beach and Konyaalti Beach Park. This street is very popular among the guests of the city, as it is a walking route from the old town of Antalya (city center) to the beach.
The route along Konyaalti Street is very picturesque - part of the way runs near a steep rocky shore, coming close to the sea waters, and from which beautiful panoramic views open.
Along the street there is a park on the cliff of Yavuz Ozjan (Yavuz Ozcan parkı) and Ataturk Park with green areas, fountains, monuments, places to relax, as well as panoramic terraces and restaurants. More about Konyaalti Street…
Large viewing terrace in Antalya
Konyaalti Street ends at the Konyaalti Large Viewing Terrace (Konyaaltı Büyük Seyir Terası), which is one of the best and most visited viewing platforms in Antalya.
The observation deck is an open terrace near a rocky cliff, from which stunning panoramic views of the sea open, Konyaalti beach, park coastal zone and mountain peaks.
There is a panoramic cafe near the observation deck. More about the viewing terrace and the panoramic cafe…
Entertainment in Antalya. To Antalya with children
Antalya is an excellent children-oriented resort, where, even without leaving the city, you can fully spend time and have fun with the whole family.
Places in Antalya for family entertainment:
- Antalya Aquarium (Antalya Oceanarium, Antalya Aquariums), which is a large aquarium complex with an aquarium with a tunnel, a zoological garden (terrarium), a snow world, a museum wax figures, XD cinema and VR 360 videos;
- large seasonal Water Park "Waterhill" with pools, slides, cafes and marine animal shows;
- amusement park "Aktur" with roller coasters, classic attractions, including adult and children's, 5D cinema, play area, Turkey's largest Ferris wheel "Heart of Antalya" (height 90 meters) and food court;
- Antalya ZOO, which is one of the largest in Turkey. The zoo includes a reptile house, a birdhouse and shelters for deer, gazelles, roe deer, maned sheep, Cameroonian sheep, zebras, ponies, kangaroos, lions, tigers, cougars, lizards, bears, as well as natural and artificial reservoirs and waterfalls;
- Dokumapark is a shady pine park located on the territory of a former yarn and cotton factory in Antalya. The park has walking areas and museums, including a large toy museum, as well as an open-air miniature museum "Mini City" (Mini City), which presents smaller copies of popular attractions in Turkey;
- Aksu Dolphinarium is a family marine park with a show of dolphins and sea lions, the possibility of swimming with dolphins and a shark;
- park "Fantastic" (Park Funtastic) is a large theme park with various sports and entertainment areas. In the park: children's area with trampolines, children's excavators, rope obstacle course (rope park), zipline, go-karting, rodelban, ATVs, paintball, zorbing, horseback riding, cafes and picnic areas;
- Sandland is a kind of open-air museum where you can see sand sculptures with evening lighting. The museum is located near Lara beach.
Shopping and shops in Antalya
There are many shops in Antalya, as well as bazaars and shopping centers where you can shop around perfectly.
From major shopping centers: 5M Migros, MarkAntalya AVM, Erasta AVM Antalya, ÖzdilekPark Antalya AVM, Agora Antalya AVM, TerraCity and the outlet center Deepo Outlet Center.
Public transport in Antalya. Antaliakart
Antalya's public transport is well developed and is represented by buses and trams. By public transport, you can easily move around the city itself and go to nearby areas.
There are four tram lines running in Antalya, three of which are AntRay high-speed trams, and the fourth is retro tram "Nostalzhi" (Nostalgji), which passes near the old town of Kaleichi and which you can take from the historical center to the Archaeological Museum of Antalya and Konyaalti beach.
Antalya Public Transport Website: ulasim.antalya.bel.tr.
Photo of Antalya retro tram
Photo of a high-speed tram
Antalya tram route map (retro tram is marked with line T2)
In Antalya public transport, in addition to the retro tram, in which you can also pay for travel in cash, cash payment is not accepted.
You can pay for travel using Antalyakart transport cards (Antalyakart) or contactless bank cards.
Near many bus and tram stops (including at Antalya airport) there are vending machines for buying and replenishing Antaliakart.
To get on the tram, at the entrance to the platform, you must attach a bank card or an Antalyakart transport card to the turnstile. To get out of the car, you need to press the button on the door.
Bus fares are paid at the driver's terminal; entrance is through the front door.
Detailed information about Antaliikart (places of purchase and replenishment, fare, etc.) is recommended to specify on the website: antalyakart.com.tr .
Where to go from Antalya
You can travel outside the city of Antalya in Turkey with guided tours, as well as independently on aircraft, taxi, car or bus.
Rent a car in Antalya (all places) →
Intercity buses from and to Antalya →
From Antalya, you can go on boat trips, diving and fishing, as well as visit both nearby attractions and more remote ones.
Of the most interesting places to visit from Antalya:
- ruins of ancient cities such as Termessos, Aspendos and Salagassos;
- Kurshunlu, Manavgat and Uchansu waterfalls;
- Keprulu and Tazi canyons (Tazi Canyon), where you can do canyoning, rafting, rafting and jipping;
- one of the largest natural caves in Turkey is Karayan, in which traces of the life activity of ancient people have been found;
- a large amusement park with a shopping area "Land of Legends";
- ancient city and resort of Side;
- Saklykent Ski Center;
- Olympos cable car, which lifts guests to the mountain, which has a height of 2,365 meters;
- ancient city of Myra and the majestic Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas in Demre;
- Salda Lake (Salda Gölü), which is known as Turkish Maldives;
- travertines of Pamukkale, Hierapolis and Cleopatra's pool;
- and, of course, unsurpassed Cappadocia. Learn more about where to go from Antalya…
The currency of Turkey. Currency exchange in Antalya
The currency of Turkey, and, accordingly, Antalya, is the Turkish Lira (turk lirası), denoted by the symbol ₺ (TL).
In use, both paper lira and coins, which are called kurusham.
You can pay with Turkish lira in all establishments, shops, hotels, etc. in Antalya. Also, many restaurants, cafes, shops and hotels, especially located in the tourist part of the city, accept dollars and euros. However, and often, when paying in dollars or euros, you will be called a less favorable rate than exchanging currency in exchangers.
Currency can be exchanged at currency exchangers, bank offices or cash withdrawals at ATMs. We do not recommend exchanging currency with your hands - they can cheat.
Most of the exchangers are located in the tourist part of the city - on the streets near the old town of Kaleichi. The exchange rate varies from exchanger to exchanger, but, as a rule, varies slightly.
Currency can also be exchanged at airports. The exchange rate at Antalya airport is usually less favorable than in the city center. Therefore, and if necessary, it is better to exchange small amounts at the airport, which will be enough for travel and the first individual needs in Antalya.
In many places of the city, you can pay with bank cards.
How to get to Antalya
You can go to Antalya on your own, while buying air tickets, booking a hotel and purchasing insurance, or buy a ready-made tour, which will already include all of the above and + transfer from / to the airport to / from the hotel.
Antalya has a large airport (Antalya Havalimanı), which has several terminals, including international and domestic. Flights to Antalya →
The airport is located in the northeast of Antalya, 12 kilometers from the historical center of the city - the old town of Kaleichi.
You can get from the airport to the city center by taxi, car, shuttle buses, public buses or tram.
Rent a car at Antalya airport →
Learn more about how to get from Antalya Airport to the center, including by shuttle buses, public buses and trams, you can find out here →
From other cities and resorts in Turkey, Antalya can also be reached by plane or by public buses.
In addition, in the city of Antalya, near Konyaalti beach, there is a multi-purpose New port of Antalya Akdeniz (Port Akdeniz) with a harbor for yachts, cruise ships, container ships, bulk carriers, etc.
During the tourist season, "sea buses" run to (from) the old port of Antalya, which is in the very center of the city, from some nearby resorts, for example from Kemer.
Accommodation facilities in Antalya. Antalya Hotels
Antalya has an abundance of accommodation facilities, ranging from 5- and 4-star resort hotels located near beaches and having their own beaches or private areas on long beaches, as well as operating on an all-inclusive system, and ending with hotels and apartments in the historical center of the city.
From hotels near beaches and with private beach areas
5-star hotel Oz Hotels Antalya Resort & Spa Adult 9
5-star hotel Rixos Downtown Antalya All Inclusive - The Land of Legends Access
5-star hotel MEDWORLD Health & Rehabilitation Center Rixos Antalya
5-star hotel Özkaymak Falez Hotel
For more information about beaches and hotels with beaches in Antalya, you can find out here →
From hotels in the old town of Kaleici
All accommodation facilities in Antalya (hotels, apartments, villas, guest houses, etc.), including in the old town, near beaches and more remotely from those, can be view and book here
Visa and Insurance
Visa issues for entry to Turkey and also Antalya depend on your country of residence (citizenship) and the time you are going to spend in Turkey (Antalya). Therefore, we recommend checking this information and all other conditions of entry / exit to the country on the websites of consulates (embassies) of Turkey.
To visit Turkey, we recommend having travel insurance
Antalya city on the map
