Antalya, located on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, is a beautiful and historically-rich city that combines ancient history, stunning beaches, and modern luxury. With its charming old town, lively marina, and the possibility for adventure, it’s a must-visit for travellers of all types. Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant cultural history or the scenic coastline, Antalya really does have something for everyone.
In our Antalya travel guide, you can find information about..
- When to visit
- Flights to Antalya
- Where to stay
- How to get around Antalya
- How long should you stay?
- Top attractions to see
- Outdoor adventures
- Day trips
- What to eat in Antalya
- Antalya, Turkey FAQs
When to Visit Antalya
Summer (June-August)
Summers in Antalya can get very hot and perfect for beach lovers. The temperature often exceeds 30°C (86°F) – great for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean, and even some water sports. The beaches and resorts are lively during this period, attracting crowds from all over the world. If you’re planning to visit in the summer, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as this is the peak tourist season.
Spring/Autumn (March-May, September-November)
For those who prefer milder weather, spring and autumn time might be more preferable. Temperatures are more comfortable, ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F-77°F). These seasons are perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the city’s cultural attractions. The beaches are also less crowded, and outdoor activities like rafting and hiking in the mountains can be enjoyed in the midler weather.
Getting to Antalya
Antalya International Airport (AYT) is well-connected to various cities across the world, including direct flights from several UK airports. Upon arrival, travellers can reach the city centre using taxis, shuttles, or buses. Many resorts also offer private transfers, making it easy to get to your accommodation.
At Corendon Airlines, we fly from the UK to Antalya via:
- Birmingham (BHX)
- Bristol (BRS)
- Glasgow (GLA)
- London Gatwick (LGW)
- London Stansted (STN)
- Manchester (MAN)
- Newcastle (NCL)
![Antalya, Turkey Travel Guide]()
Where to Stay
Kaleiçi (Old Town)
Kaleiçi is the historic centre of Antalya and offers a unique experience for travellers who love history and culture. The old town is full of narrow, cobbled streets lined with restored Ottoman houses that now function as boutique hotels. Staying here offers you the perfect gateway to Antalya’s historical treasures, like Hadrian’s Gate, the iconic Clock Tower, and the bustling marina. It’s an ideal spot for travellers eager to dive into the captivating ancient charm of Antalya!
Belek
Belek, known for its world-class golf courses and all-inclusive resorts, Belek caters to adult travellers seeking a resort-style holiday. Many of the resorts are situated on pristine sandy beaches and offer a range of amenities from spas to water parks, all nestled within a mountainous green landscape. This area is great for those looking for a relaxing, high-end holiday.
Konyaaltı Beach Area
Konyaaltı Beach is one of Antalya’s most famous beaches, and the surrounding area is a great place to stay if you’re seeking modern hotels with easy access to the beach. Konyaaltı offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the old town, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby. The beach itself is well-maintained and perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
How to Get Around Antalya
Antalya’s easy to get around, there’s plenty of transportation options available:
Public Transport: Antalya has a well-organised bus and tram system, with the AntRay tram line being particularly useful for travelling between the city centre and beach areas like Konyaaltı.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and affordable, but make sure the driver uses the metre to avoid being overcharged.
Renting a Car: If you’re planning to explore sites outside of Antalya, like the ancient ruins of Aspendos or more remote beaches, renting a car is a great option.
Walking: Exploring Kaleiçi on foot is the best way to experience the old town’s charming atmosphere and historical landmarks.
How Long Should You Stay?
3 – 4 Days
A 3 to 4 day stay in Antalya allows you to explore all of the city’s main attractions. You can immerse yourself in the historic charm of Kaleiçi, delve into the ancient ruins of Perge, and see the architectural greatness of the Aspendos Theater. 3 – 4 days offers enough time to unwind and relax on the beautiful beaches for a day or two, making it a perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxation.
5 – 7 Days
For travellers wanting to explore the region more deeply and enjoy some outdoor adventures, a 5 to 7 day stay is ideal. This extended duration allows you to go beyond the main tourist sights and engage in activities such as rafting, hiking through scenic trails, or visiting a few of the stunning beaches. It allows enough time for leisurely day trips and the chance to experience the vibrant nightlife that Antalya has to offer.
Top Attractions to See in Antalya
Kaleiçi (Old Town)
Kaleiçi, with its cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era architecture, is the heart of Antalya’s history. Must-see landmarks include the Hidirlik Tower, the Old Bazaar, and much more. Wandering through this historic district will transport you back in time, providing a glimpse into Antalya’s rich past.
Perga
Perga, also known as Perge, began as an ancient Lycian settlement before evolving into a Greek city in Pamphylia. It served as the capital of the Roman province Pamphylia Secunda. Today, its ruins can be found 15 kilometres east of Antalya, in the Antalya Province on Turkey’s southwestern Mediterranean coast.
Antalya Museum
For history enthusiasts, the Antalya Museum is a must-visit. It houses an impressive collection of artefacts from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, including sculptures, coins, and jewellery. It’s a great place to gain deeper insight into the region’s history. The museum features 13 exhibition halls and an open-air gallery.
Outdoor Adventures
Relaxing and laying by the pool or sea is great for some, but for those looking for a little more excitement, there are plenty of options available in Antalya:
Walking: Explore the narrow streets of Kaleiçi or hike through the ruins of Termessos, an ancient city located in the Taurus Mountains with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Go for a Swim: Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Konyaaltı Beach or the crystal-clear waters of Kaputaş Beach, Antalya offers some of the best swimming spots on the Mediterranean coast.
Water Sports: Windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing are just some of the water sports available at Antalya’s many beach resorts.
Rafting: For adrenaline lovers, head to Köprülü Kanyon for an exciting white-water rafting experience – particularly popular in the spring and early summer.
Nightlife: Kaleiçi offers a vibrant mix of traditional and modern bars, while beach clubs along Lara Beach provide a more laid-back, but lively nightlife scene.
Day Trips
Aspendos Theater
Located about 45 minutes from Antalya, the Aspendos Theater is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. The Roman theatre in Aspendos, located in the ancient city of Aspendos, Turkey, stands as a remarkable testament to Roman architecture. Built in the 2nd century, it’s from the Greco-Roman era, showcasing historical significance.
Manavgat Waterfall
The Manavgat Waterfall is a serene spot perfect for a relaxing day trip. Located near the town of Manavgat, it’s a peaceful escape from the bustling city and a great spot for a picnic or just enjoying the view.
Saklıkent Gorge
Saklıkent Gorge, also known as the “Hidden Valley”, is a stunning natural wonder located near the city of Fethiye. The gorge is over 11 miles long and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What to Eat in Antalya
The cuisine in Antalya caters to a whole range of different tastes:
Traditional Antalya Cuisine
Tahini Ice Cream: This unique local dessert is made from sesame seeds and has a rich, nutty flavour. It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Hibeş: A traditional dish made from tahini, lemon, garlic, and spices, often eaten as a dip with bread.
Serpme Kahvaltı: A traditional Turkish breakfast spread that includes a variety of olives, cheeses, honey, jams, and bread.
Where to Eat
Local Taverns (Meyhane): For a true taste of Antalya’s dining culture, head to a traditional meyhane. These lively establishments serve up mezes, fresh seafood, and raki, a local anise-flavoured spirit.
Rooftop Restaurants in Kaleiçi: Enjoy stunning views of the harbour and Mediterranean while dining on a mix of traditional Turkish and international cuisine.
Antalya, Turkey FAQs
Where is Antalya?
Antalya is located on Turkey’s southwestern Mediterranean coast, known as the Turquoise Coast due to the stunning blue colour of its waters.
How Far is Istanbul from Antalya?
Istanbul is about 700 km (435 miles) away from Antalya, and the flight between the two cities takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.
How Far is Antalya from Marmaris?
Antalya is about 320 km (200 miles) from Marmaris, and the drive takes around 4 hours by car.
Is Antalya Safe?
Yes, Antalya is considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any popular tourist spot, it’s important to take normal precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings.
What Currency is Used in Antalya?
The currency used in Antalya is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
What is the Weather Like in Antalya, Turkey?
Antalya enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperature in the summer months can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while in the winter, it can drop to around 10°C (50°F).
