Antalya, located on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is a city that is rich in history and breathtaking scenery. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and magnificent mountains, Antalya is a city that truly has it all.
Antalya is a city that is deeply rooted in history. It was founded by King Attalos II of Pergamum in the 2nd century BC and served as an important trading center for the Romans. Today, the city boasts an array of ancient ruins and monuments, including Hadrian’s Gate, the Hidirlik Tower, and the ancient city of Perge.
Aside from its rich history, Antalya is also known for its natural beauty. The city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Konyaalti Beach and Lara Beach. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Antalya is also home to the stunning Düden Waterfalls and the Taurus Mountains, which provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and other outdoor activities.
In addition to its natural beauty and rich history, Antalya is also known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. The city is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural centers, including the Antalya Museum, which features exhibits on the region’s history and culture. Antalya is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features an array of traditional Turkish dishes, including kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight.
3 Days in Antalya
Antalya is a charming city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning to visit Antalya, here’s a 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.
Day 1
Start your first day in Antalya by visiting the old town of Kaleici. This ancient quarter of the city is full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and historical landmarks. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and explore the Hadrian’s Gate, the Clock Tower, and the Hidirlik Tower. Stop for lunch at one of the many traditional Turkish restaurants in the area.
In the afternoon, head to the Antalya Museum, which showcases the region’s rich history and culture. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, including ancient sculptures, mosaics, and coins.
Day 2
Start your second day in Antalya with a visit to the Duden Waterfalls, located just outside the city center. These waterfalls are a natural wonder and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After the waterfall, head to the Konyaalti Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Antalya. Spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
In the evening, head to the Antalya Marina, which is full of restaurants, bars, and shops. Enjoy a seafood dinner while watching the boats come and go, and take a stroll along the marina to soak up the atmosphere.
Day 3
On your last day in Antalya, take a day trip to the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos. These two sites are among the best-preserved ancient ruins in Turkey and offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history. Perge was an ancient Greek city that later became a Roman settlement, while Aspendos is known for its stunning amphitheater, which is still used for performances today.
After the day trip, head back to Antalya for a farewell dinner at one of the city’s rooftop restaurants. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea while savoring traditional Turkish dishes.
Antalya is a city that has something for everyone, and this 3-day itinerary will allow you to experience the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach, Antalya is the perfect destination.
How to get to and around Antalya
Antalya is a popular tourist destination on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, and getting there and around is relatively easy. Here’s a guide on how to get to and around Antalya:
Getting to Antalya
By Air: Antalya International Airport is the main airport in the region, and there are direct flights from many major cities around the world. The airport is located about 10 kilometers from the city center, and there are several transportation options available, including taxis, buses, and private transfers.
By Bus: Antalya is also accessible by bus from many cities in Turkey and Europe. There are several bus companies that offer daily services to and from Antalya, including Metro Turizm, Kamil Koc, and Ulusoy.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, Antalya is easily accessible by car via the D400 highway, which runs along the Mediterranean coast.
Getting around Antalya
Public Transportation: Antalya has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and minibusses. The Antalya Card is a convenient and cost-effective way to pay for public transportation in the city.
Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Antalya, and they are metered, so you don’t have to negotiate a fare. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm the price before getting in the taxi to avoid any surprises.
Car Rental: If you want to explore Antalya and the surrounding areas at your own pace, renting a car is a good option. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and in the city center.
Walking and Biking: The old town of Kaleici is pedestrian-only, so walking is the best way to explore this charming quarter of the city. Biking is also a popular way to get around Antalya, and there are several bike rental shops in the city.
Places to stay in Antalya
Antalya, Turkey’s Mediterranean city, offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront resort or a charming boutique hotel in the old town, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to stay in Antalya:
- Rixos Downtown Antalya: This luxurious resort is located in the heart of the city, just a few steps away from the beach. It offers spacious rooms, a large pool, a spa, and several restaurants and bars.
- Akra Hotel: This modern hotel is located on the seafront, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It features a spa, several restaurants and bars, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city.
- Tuvana Hotel: This charming boutique hotel is located in the old town of Kaleici, surrounded by historical landmarks and narrow streets. It offers beautifully decorated rooms, a courtyard with a pool, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
- The Marmara Antalya: This unique hotel is located on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views. It features spacious rooms, a large pool, a spa, and a private beach.
- Mediterra Art Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in the old town of Kaleici, offering a unique blend of art and history. It features beautifully decorated rooms, a courtyard with a pool, and an art gallery.
- Sealife Family Resort Hotel: This family-friendly resort is located on the seafront, offering a wide range of activities and amenities for guests of all ages. It features spacious rooms, a large pool, a spa, and several restaurants and bars.
These are just a few of the many options for accommodation in Antalya. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a charming boutique hotel, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in this vibrant city.
What and where to eat in Antalya
Antalya is known for its delicious cuisine, which features a wide range of dishes inspired by traditional Turkish cooking. From fresh seafood to succulent kebabs, here’s a guide on what and where to eat in Antalya:
Kebabs
Kebabs are a staple of Turkish cuisine, and there are many delicious variations to try in Antalya. Adana kebab is a spicy ground beef kebab, while shish kebab is made with chunks of meat and vegetables grilled on skewers. Ciğer kebab, made with lamb liver, is another local favorite.
Where to try: Charcoal Grill Ocakbasi in the old town of Kaleici is known for its delicious kebabs, including Adana kebab and shish kebab.
Meze
Meze is a type of small dish that is typically served as an appetizer or snack. Meze dishes in Antalya often include stuffed grape leaves, hummus, baba ghanoush, and Turkish meatballs.
Where to try: 7 Mehmet in the old town of Kaleici is a popular restaurant that specializes in meze dishes. Try the meze platter for a taste of several different dishes.
Seafood
With its location on the Mediterranean coast, Antalya is known for its fresh seafood. Grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp are just a few of the many options to try.
Where to try: Balikcim Ozgur in the Antalya Marina is a popular seafood restaurant that offers a wide range of fresh seafood dishes.
Turkish Delight
Turkish Delight, or lokum, is a sweet treat made with starch, sugar, and flavorings like rosewater, lemon, or pistachio. It’s a popular snack to enjoy with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
Where to try: Koska in the old town of Kaleici is a famous confectionery shop that has been making Turkish Delight for over 100 years.
Pide
Pide is a type of Turkish pizza that is often served with toppings like ground beef, cheese, and vegetables. It’s a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Where to try: Pideci Hasan in the old town of Kaleici is a popular restaurant that specializes in pide. Try the ground beef pide for a taste of this delicious dish.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes to try in Antalya. With its vibrant food scene and wide range of restaurants, there’s always something new to discover in this culinary hotspot.
Coworking in Antalya
Antalya, Turkey’s vibrant Mediterranean city, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers. If you’re looking for a coworking space in Antalya, here are some options to consider:
- Antalya Coworking: Located in the heart of the city, Antalya Coworking offers a modern and comfortable workspace with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a kitchen. The space is open 24/7, and there are several pricing options available, including daily and monthly passes.
- Impact Hub Antalya: Impact Hub is a global network of coworking spaces that focuses on social impact and sustainability. The Antalya location offers a spacious and bright workspace, as well as access to events and workshops. Membership options include a flexible desk, fixed desk, or private office.
- Workinn Antalya: Workinn is a coworking space located in the heart of the city, just a few steps away from the Antalya Museum. The space offers a comfortable and productive environment, with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a lounge area. There are several membership options available, including a daily pass, monthly pass, or private office.
- Base Workspace: Base Workspace is a modern and stylish coworking space located in the trendy Konyaalti neighborhood. The space features high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Membership options include a flexible desk, fixed desk, or private office.
- Myra Coworking: Myra Coworking is a cozy and comfortable coworking space located in the old town of Kaleici. The space offers high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a kitchen, as well as a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Membership options include a daily pass, weekly pass, or monthly pass.
These are just a few of the many coworking spaces available in Antalya. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Antalya is a great destination for digital nomads and remote workers looking for a productive and inspiring work environment.