Antalya is a lively city on the southwest coast of Turkey, with all the beautiful touches of rich history, natural beauty, and a vividly modern atmosphere. One of the most popular holiday places in Turkey, it offers plenty of activities and must-see sights. If you are searching for the best things to do in Antalya, here is a comprehensive guide for you not to miss the highlights of this enchanting city.
1. Explore the Old Town (Kaleiçi)
Kaleiçi, Antalya’s old town, is a really interesting maze of narrow, stone-paved streets with perfectly preserved Ottoman-era architecture housing shops and quaint boutiques. Take a stroll around this picturesque district and enjoy the key landmarks, such as Hadrian’s Gate-a triumphal arch dedicated to the Roman Emperor Hadrian-and the Yivli Minare Mosque with its famous fluted minaret. The area is full of charming cafes and boutique hotels, which can offer great conditions for exploration and relaxation at the same time.
2. Antalya Archaeological Museum
Antalya Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history. This large museum houses a great collection of artifacts from the region, including statues, mosaics, and sarcophagi dating back to ancient times of the Lycians and Romans. The different exhibits are much informative of the rich cultural heritage of the area, which makes it one of the things to do in Antalya.
3. Chill Out at Lara Beach
Lara Beach is also famous for its soft sands and transparently blue waters, which mean a lot for sunbathing and swimming. On the seashore, luxurious resorts can be seen along with beach clubs that provide a host of amenities. For example, one can rent sunbeds, try some water sports, or simply sit and enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the beautiful views of the Mediterranean. Truly, it is a place to relax and feel the warmth of the sun.
4. Düden Waterfalls
Located just a few miles from city center, Düden Waterfalls are an expression of the wonders of Antalya’s natural landscapes. Several waterfalls cascade down from the top of the cliffs to the sea. A walking path leads to viewing platforms, picnic areas, and lush gardens around the falls. Just a great place for nature lovers and photographers.
5. Boat Tour to the Pirate Caves
This is a must-do if you are visiting Antalya and embarking on a boat tour around the beautiful coastline. Most tours take off from the Kaleiçi harbor and will take you further ahead to the pirate caves and secluded beaches. You can swim in crystal-clear water, snorkel among colorful marine life, and enjoy a delicious lunch onboard. It gives you a unique perspective on the stunning coastline, Antalya has, and it is among Antalya best things to do if you are an adventurous person.
6. Walk to the Antalya Aquarium
Antalya Aquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world, housing an array of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish. The crowning glory here, though, is the underwater tunnel in which you can walk and view the swimming life above your head. Further thematic exhibitions, such as the snow park, make this a great family attraction and for all lovers of the sea.
7. Marvel at the Aspendos Theater
Only a few miles from Antalya, ancient Aspendos Theater is one of the most well-preserved Roman theatres around the world. It was built in the 2nd century AD, could hold up to 20,000 viewers, and it is still utilized for performances. Visitors will go through an impressive structure, admire its acoustics, and just envision grand events that once took place here. It is an essential stop for any person interested in ancient history and architecture.
8. Tahtalı Mountain Panoramic Views
A trip to Tahtalı Mountain offers a panoramic view of the Antalya coastline. The summit of this mountain, over 2,300 meters above sea level, is reached by a cable car ride in sceneries. The view while at the top encompasses the Mediterranean, Taurus Mountains, and the landscapes around. A number of hiking trails exist in the area for those interested in it.
9. Enjoy the Local Food
Antalya represents a food paradise, offering a wide range of tastes combined under the influence of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Balkan cuisines. Definitely try the traditional kebabs, mezes, and the well-known Turkish delight. You also should not miss fresh fish and calamari from local seafood. For an authentic experience, try dining in a local restaurant in Kaleiçi and enjoy the atmosphere while having delicious dishes.
10. Antalya Clock Tower and Old Harbour
Antalya Clock Tower is located in the heart of Kaleici-an old quarter site next to the Old Harbor-dating back to the 19th century. There are a great number of shops, cafes, and restaurants around this very striking clock tower. It is highly recommended to take a nice walk around the harbor, watch the boats coming into the harbor, and enjoy the marvelous view of the sunset over the Mediterranean. The picturesque setting serves perfectly for relaxation and photography.
Conclusion
It doesn’t matter whether one is interested in history, loves nature, enjoys the beach, or food; Antalya will serve them all. Such a rich cultural heritage with awesome landscapes and energetic vibes in the air give one all the reasons to plan their travel to Turkey for one of the best things to do in Antalya. Whatever one does-be it the exploration of ancient ruins or time spent on beautiful beaches, or indulging in mouth-watering cuisines-Antalya tries to make it an unforgettable experience. Then, pack your luggage and get ready for an exciting tour of this wonderful city.
If you’re interested, you can check out the Antalya city tour.
