Antalya isn’t just that sunbathing destination you see on Instagram. This place is the heart of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
When you picture an ocean, it should be magical, and Antalya gives you that feeling in real time. Not just the waves hitting the shore, but also Roman ruins, modern streets, and waterfalls crashing right into the ocean, can take you into a dream.
Experiencing these is just one of the best things to do in Antalya. Whether you’re coming in for a quick escape or live a slow life near the waves, the best dreamy holiday is guaranteed.
This city has got you covered with a diverse range of attractions. From ancient history, mind-blowing nature, adrenaline-pumping experiences, and food, this place will make you want to move here.
This blog is a package of the best places to visit in Antalya. There are absolutely can’t-miss spots and hidden gems you’ll want to brag about later. Plus, I’ll share the best times to go, how to get around, and plenty of local tips to ensure you don’t miss a single thing.
Here is the List of The Best Things to Do in Antalya
If I am to talk about places to visit in Antalya, I have to rewind to all the beautiful things this city offered me. So, going back in memory lane makes me fall in love with the city each and every time. To experience the same things, you need to know all the finest parts in the region.
Kaleici: The Soul of Antalya
Anyone would lose themselves in Antalya’s Kaleici; the streets here have more stories than your grandma. If you have the soul of a wanderer, then you would be wandering these cobblestone streets of Kaleici.
As you enter the street, you can smell the dreamy mix of jasmine and fresh-brewed Turkish coffee, and every corner hides a little treasure you weren’t even looking for.
The rug shop, courtyard, maybe a stone arch that’s seen more history than your entire family tree. When you sip a coffee, you can hear the sound of boats down at the harbour, which pull you towards the sea. Ahh! Just by writing this, it makes me want to live here forever.
History? Oh, it’s everywhere. Kaleici isn’t just some old neighbourhood. This was a proud city, guarding the Roman port for almost 2,000 years. The Hadrian’s Gate? Still standing, like a marble flex from the Roman Empire.
What to Do in Kaleici Old Town
- Walk through Hadrian’s Gate and pretend you’re a time traveller.
- Check out the Kesik Minare (Broken Minaret): it’s everything: a temple, a church, and a mosque.
- Catch the sunset down at the Old Harbour. Trust me, your phone’s camera will thank you.
- Grab a Turkish tea at a street café and just watch the world go by.
Duden Waterfalls: Nature’s Beauty
The falls are 15 km from the centre of Antalya city. When you near the falls, you’ll hear the Düden Waterfalls before you see them. It’s loud and a wild water roar amidst nature.
How to get to Düden Waterfalls?
The best part is that buses go to the falls, making it easy to access even for tourists. You can ask the locals or note these bus numbers when boarding the buses – MK80 and KK88. Or, enjoy a cab ride, based on your budget.
These falls are fed by a river that’s been rolling through the Taurus Mountains since, like, forever. The Lower Düden falls off a massive 40-meter cliff directly into the Mediterranean.
Whereas the Upper Düden offers a more relaxed experience with parks perfect for leisurely strolls and picnic spots. You can also go to the caves behind the waterfall.
Entry Ticket: 150 INR
Konyaalti Beach: You Can’t Beat These Views
Konyaaltı Beach offers a stunning backdrop of golden sand, turquoise waves, and beautiful mountains. This is not just a beach, it’s a dreamland made for postcards.
You can see locals show up early for swims, and families come here during the weekends to camp under the palms. Coming here is one of the best things to do in Antalya for families, and many make it their weekly activity.
There are many activities taking place here, from street performers like dance and stunts, which can pass the time. And many local food stalls serve the best food at a cheaper price.
Back in the day, it was just a fishing spot. Now, it’s one of Antalya’s favourite hangouts, and it hasn’t lost even a little bit of that natural beauty.
What to Do in Konyaalti Beach
- Take a dip in the water.
- Walk or bike the whole beach area.
- Have a picnic.
- Go wild with parasailing, jet skis or catamaran rides.
Antalya Archaeological Museum: A Time Capsule of Civilisations
Antalya Archaeological Museum was founded in 1922 to preserve treasures from the Antalya region, and it’s one of Turkey’s largest museums. The Halls showcase artefacts from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras, including relics from the ancient city of Perge.
The marble statues, glittering gold, and ancient coins all tell you the story of the transforming civilisations. This place introduces us to how people lived back then, their ways of eating, fighting, and surviving.
Going here is a fascinating glimpse into history; it feels like walking through a timeline carved in stone. You can either go on a guided tour, which will be more engaging. Alternatively, you can go solo and get an audio guide available in several languages.
Cost: 1,530 INR
Hadrian’s Gate: The Roman Welcome Arch
If you know the history, standing before Hadrian’s Gate can almost make you hear the sounds of Roman chariots rolling over its marble stones. The three grand arches and the towers still greet visitors as they did in 130 AD for the emperors. It is a majestic entrance into Antalya’s Old Town.
It was built to honour Emperor Hadrian’s visit; the gate has survived empires, earthquakes, and modern life. Its intricate carvings tell us about Rome’s influence on the Mediterranean.
There is also a story that says, during ancient times, the Queen of Sheba took the middle arch and went to Aspensos, so that she could spend time with King Solomon.
If you are interested in all the ancient remains this place has, I am sure it will be an excellent trip for you. Located in the middle of Antalya, you can simply walk around Atatürk Boulevard and head to this gate.
Note: There are no opening hours or tickets; you can visit anytime and explore the area freely.
Kursunlu Waterfall: Antalya’s Secret Chill Spot
If you’re craving a break from the city noise and want to feel nature, Kursunlu Waterfall is your spot. And it’s about 20 km northeast of Antalya’s city centre.
Kursunlu waterfall is tucked away just outside Antalya. It’s basically a green wonderland. The shady pine forests, with their incredible earthy smell after rain and the sight of water falling down the rocks, are a blessing to watch.
Here, you won’t find any ancient temples or mosques, but Kursunlu’s roots run deep. Back in the day, caravan travellers (traders or explorers) used to stop by just for the fresh air.
The area still thrives with wildlife; you can see turtles, lizards, and birds that sound like they’re auditioning for a Disney movie. There is so much in this place; all you have to do is observe nature.
Entry Fee: 165 INR
Termessos Ancient City: The Eagle’s Nest You’ll Never Forget
Termessos Ancient City is way up in the Taurus Mountains, literally above the clouds, wandering around historical ruins and wildflowers. Just 32 km from Antalya city, it offers a hidden world that will mesmerise you upon your visit.
In 333 BC, this city was defended from the powerful Alexander the Great. It was so tough to reach that Alexander the Great himself couldn’t conquer it. Then, in 70 BC, it became an independent ally of the Romans.
In the present day, you can find two parts of the ruins – upper and lower. When you arrive, the first thing you see is the lower ruin. And here you can see the Temple of Artemis, Hadrian’s Gate, the Western necropolis (cemetery), and the Tomb of Alcetas.
In the upper part, you can see the agora, cisterns (a tank for storing water), Colonnade Street, the Bouleuterion (council chamber), and another necropolis.
Then comes the grand Termessos Theatre, and it seats almost 5,000 people. Located over 1,000 m above sea level, it offers stunning views of the mountains.
- Entry Fee: 310 INR
- Opening Time: 08:00 am – 05:00 pm
Lara Beach: Antalya’s Playground
Lara Beach is like a paradise, which is open 24 hours a day for you to relax. This is definitely one of the go-to places to visit in Antalya with family and friends.
When you go here, the whole day will be filled with amazing things to do. There are also luxury resorts and hotels. You can either choose to find accommodations here to live the coastal life. Or just take a drive to the beach.
In the morning, wake up to fewer crowds, and see the clear sky that is layered with the morning sun rays. Go have a sip of Turkish coffee and walk on the shore. Then hop in the local stalls for breakfast.
After that, sunbathe or just sit and watch the waves wash over you. Now, it’s time to get ready for the water activities like swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing, paragliding, and boat rides.
In the evening, you can go shopping for souvenirs from the local vendors and enjoy the lively night the beach offers you.
Perge Ancient City: Step Back In Time
Walking into Perge Ancient City feels like wandering through a giant, open-air museum. When you see the main street, it is filled with columns (huge pillars), and the old baths and stadium. They all make you feel like you’ve time-travelled.
Perge is ancient, dating back to the time of the Hittites and the city was founded by them in the 12th century BC. And then it became a city for the Romans.
This place was home to wise philosophers, brilliant mathematicians, and strong athletes. It became a big deal in Roman times, with everything from stadiums to baths to theatres.
Now, in Antalya, Turkey, this is a tourist attraction that is on everyone’s list. People mainly come here to admire the architecture and art.
And the hero of the place is the theatre, which can accommodate 15,000 people. Back then, the stage saw many things like beautiful theatrical performances and fierce gladiator fights.
There are still many spots used by the Romans- the thermal bath, the agora (public open space used for assemblies), city walls, and much more history waiting for your arrival.
- Entry Fee: 1,130 INR
- Opening Time: 08:00 am – 08:30 pm
Boat Trips and Cruises in Antalya
One of the romantic things to do in Antalya is to take a boat trip. The sun shines on your face, and the cool Mediterranean breeze makes your hair fly as you sail.
Antalya’s been a port city, ships come and go, and traders exchange stories. Now, even the tourist can experience the buzz of how all this looks. Just go to the port and hop on the boats, take in all the good vibes, and watch the business happen there.
Most tours take the boat from the Old Harbour or from the new marinas. You can take a cruise that lasts 2-3 hours. Or you have the option to go on a full-day boat trip, where you can swim, snorkel, and go cliff diving in the best spots that the cruise trip organisers suggest.
You will also have a stop at stunning islands like Suluada. Along with that, you will be served yummy Turkish food as you sail. You can just relax on these cruises with your loved ones and have the most fun.
Cost: Approximately 2,000 INR
Sandland Antalya
Sandland Antalya is created by artists from all over the world. People came together to build these wild, massive sculptures out of sand. When stepping inside, it honestly feels like a real-life fantasy.
You can see giant sand statues from ancient myths to pop culture icons. Some of these things are taller than you’ll ever be! When you see some of the sculptures, you will have just one question: How did they even do it?
You can see artists working all year round. And each year, you can see that the themes displayed change, like myths, history, and culture.
Just outside the city near Lara beach, you can find this place in a big open-air park. It’s the perfect spot to wander, snap pics, and feel like a kid again when you look at those weird sand sculptures.
- Entry Fee: 270 INR
- Opening Time: 09:00 am – 11:00 pm
Upside-Down House Antalya: Turn Your World on Its Head
Visiting the upside-down house is one of the most unique things to do in Antalya. Have you ever wanted to feel like Spider-Man without all the crime-fighting, or be that superhero that can climb up the wall? Then, the Upside-Down House is your spot.
If you are travelling with your kids, you must go here. The little ones will have so much fun posing in quirky spots, and the laughs will never end.
Seriously, when you walk in, suddenly the couch is above your head, the fridge is hanging out high, and you’ll probably forget which way’s up.
The whole place is a playground that plays tricky games with your brain. Everything’s upside down; in every room, there are giggles coming out, and your camera roll will never be the same. And you can just visit the place and get tickets on the go.
- Opening Time: 10:00 am – 08:00 pm
- Cost: 880 INR
Turkish Bath: Treat Yourself Like Royalty
Turkish Bath, also known as a hamam. It is a pampering ritual that takes place in a cosy, warm room. When you book this session, a trained person will massage you and put you in a fragrant lather.
When they scrub, it can be a bit rough, but it will treat your aching body like no other treatment. And a calming oil massage to finish will soothe your mood in no time.
Although it feels like a spa, it’s actually a cultural tradition that’s wonderfully relaxing.
Hamams date back to Roman and Ottoman bathing traditions and remain a core part of Turkish life.
Here are a few places you can choose in Antalya-
- Falez Hamam & Spa
- Demirhan Bath
- Le Spa Hamam & Masaj
- Lara Bath
Cost: Starts from 1,500 INR and goes up to 5,000 INR, which depends on the treatment you prefer.
Turkish Coffee Fortune: Telling Workshop
The process of fortune telling with a coffee is called Tasseography, which involves interpreting patterns. You don’t have to be superstitious; it can just be a fun experience. Even if you don’t believe it, it is good to respect this tradition.
This is not just a business in Turkey; it is a communal experience that connects family and friends. For generations, people have passed this on to others.
When you apply for the workshop, you learn so much about Turkish culture. You will begin by drinking the rich, brewed coffee. When you finish drinking, the coffee grounds are left at the bottom.
Now, when the cup is left only with the coffee grounds, you have to close it with the saucer. Then, make a wish or ask a question to which you want the answer.
Turn the cups upside down, and when the coffee grounds flow down, they form a pattern. And with the pattern it forms, you will be interpreting and predicting the future.
Recommended Workshop
Cost: Approximately 2,857 INR
Antalya Aquarium: Underwater Wonderland
Antalya Aquarium offers a spectacular view into marine life without getting wet. It’s one of the world’s largest tunnel aquariums, inviting you to stroll through underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and vibrant fish.
What makes Antalya Aquarium unique is that it combines education, adventure, and entertainment under one roof. Beyond the stunning marine displays, you’ll find themed sections like-
- Snow World
- Ice Museum
- Wild Park
- XD Cinema
- VR 360
- Face-to-face wax museum
Once you’re in, you will find numerous activities lined up and see many students coming here for excursions. You can do shark feeding, attend a music concert, host a birthday party, or even make a marriage proposal.
Cost: Here, each of the activities costs a different price. You can visit Antalya aquarium’s official website for information on pricing details.
Turkish Food: Always Leaves You Happy
Antalya’s food scene is absolute fire. I would say, not just Antalya, but the whole of Turkey. Here, you’ve got this wild mash-up of Mediterranean vibes, and it is super fresh and looks colourful.
Seriously, just stroll around and you’ll catch that unreal smell of bread baking in stone ovens. The spices are everywhere.
The regular meal, shaped into a boat, is known as Turkish Flatbread Pizza. And it’s packed with a variety of cheese, meat, veggies, honey, fruits, and bread. The crust gets all crispy, and you just wanna tear into it.
Then there’s Lahmacun, which people call “Turkish pizza,”. This pizza becomes your favourite as it’s thinner, spicier, and best when you roll it up with parsley and squeeze some lemon on top. It would be the most delicious thing you’ve ever tasted.
And the Kebabs? Don’t even get me started. There are a million kinds in Turkey. We’re talking about a lamb that is so tender. It basically breaks apart on your fork and melts in your mouth. If you are a vegan, they have that too. If you’re not a vegan and near the harbour, you must try the local seafood.
Plus, there’s an increasing variety of delicious local food, one bite of which will make you nuts.
Some spots you shouldn’t miss
- 7 Mehmet
- Pasa Bey Kebap Salonu
- Old Town Restaurant 07
- Yemenli Meyhanesi
Take the Breathtaking Olympos Cable Car Ride to Mount Tahtali
Mount Tahtalı is part of the Taurus Mountains, and back in the day, people actually thought it was Mount Olympus, which was “home of the gods”. It was believed Zeus and his friends hung out here.
Even today, the place still feels kind of magical. There are ancient ruins like Phaselis and Olympos lurking below, which give the whole area a nice vibe.
You can either hike your way up a mountain or, if you’re feeling lazy, there’s the cable car, Olympos Teleferik, that takes you all the way to the top.
If you want to experience the stunning views, then go to the Kemer district. It is about an hour’s drive from Antalya. This cable car station in Tekirova is one of the longest in Europe.
You go from sea level to 2,365 meters up within ten minutes. And the views at the top are unreal. You will see the ocean shining on one side, forests everywhere, and sometimes you can see the peaks covered in snow in winter.
Once you are on the top, and if you’re the adventurous type, you can actually paraglide off the summit. Then, try bungee swinging or keep walking on the beautiful hiking trails in summer that have clear roads.
Cost: Approximately 4,500 INR for the cable car, and each of the adventurous activities will be charged separately.
Exploring Cafe Culture in Antalya
| “Coffee should be black as hell, strong as death, and sweet as love.”- Turkish Proverb. |
Turkish coffee isn’t just a drink, and people are obsessed with it. For a local, it’s like an ancient art perfected for centuries. It is so good to just watch how they whip it up in this tiny copper pot called a cezve.
Then they pour it into these little cups, and serve you along with a glass of water and a piece of Turkish dessert next to it, and you’re supposed just to chill.
Turkish coffee is not a beverage you take when you’re in a rush; it is something you take time to appreciate.
And fortune-telling is a must-try when you are in Antalya. Everyone’s obsessed with flipping their cup and letting someone read their future in those coffee grounds.
For all this, you have to explore unique cafes. Then the old town, Kaleiçi, is basically a maze of cute cafés that will make you have those experiences.
But if you wanna do it like the locals, there’s always some family-run spot hiding in a corner where you can get some fresh, wood-fired bread.
Places you can go to
- Nobel 1(kaleiçi) Cafe & Bar & Restoran
- Cava Restaurant
- Kaleiçi Buda
- ÇaY-Tea’s
- Luna garden
Karaalioglu Park
Karaalioglu Park is situated in the heart of Antalya. It is a lush atmosphere in a clifftop garden. When you enter, you can see lawns, palm trees, and flowers everywhere.
This is one of those places where you could get lost on purpose and not even mind about getting back to the hustle of the real world.
On weekends, you can see many families bringing their children for picnics and quality family time. You will have an amazing time watching street musicians perform. If you are hungry, you can always find someone selling roasted corn, ice cream, and a variety of snacks.
I would say this is the best place to visit in Antalya if you want to feel like a local. You can actually approach them and talk when they are on the picnic, and learn a lot about their culture.
I request you to stay till sunset and watch how beautifully the sky is filled with colours. Moreover, this park is free to enter, allowing you to enjoy the best things all day without spending too much.
Shopping in Antalya
Who doesn’t like shopping when in Turkey? In Antalya, the markets give you the whole authentic vibe, which will make you feel like a local. We know all the streets in the country are charming, and the shops are beautifully decorated.
That means there are so many places that are going to tempt you. I will tell you exactly where to go; this can help you shop in the right place and buy the right things.
- Kaleiçi Old Town: In this town, you will find many local vendors selling a variety of things, from antique items to artistic souvenirs.
- Manavgat Market: This is a local market where you can see a variety of stalls lined up. Here you will get an authentic local experience, as you go around bargaining for spices, clothing, vegetables, or many home essentials.
- Lara Street Market: You can shop here only on Saturdays. This market gives flea market vibes, which offers quality secondhand products. Also, fresh produce is very popular, especially in the mornings.
Conclusion
Antalya is a place to see in Turkey. It’s more than just a beach destination; it’s rooted in ancient history, culture, adventure, and memorable experiences.
Start by wandering the gorgeous streets of Kaleiçi. Then Antalya will guide you to the mysteries of ancient ruins. Still, you will have endless things like relaxing in a Turkish hammam or sailing the turquoise coast. Every moment here feels like a story waiting to be told.
So, pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to fall in love with Antalya’s magic. Doesn’t matter if you’re planning a chill family trip or rolling solo looking for adventure, Antalya’s not gonna let you down.
You’ll come home tanned, you’ll have a gallery full of smiley pictures. You’ll probably already be thinking about the next time you want to come here.
Frequently Asked Questions on Things to Do in Antalya
How many days are enough to explore Antalya?
3 to 4 days are sufficient to see all the major places in Antalya. These days, you cover the famous Düden Waterfalls, spend time on the beach, and visit the ancient cities. However, if you have more days and budget, you can choose to stay more than 4 days. With this, you can experience many regional food stalls, restaurants, and calm streets, and book workshops, as well as discover many unique things to do in Antalya.
When is the best time to visit Antalya?
April to October is the ideal time to visit Antalya. So during this time, the coastal city offers a perfect climate for enjoying water activities and beach time, with temperatures not too hot or cold. Also, the most famous season to visit Turkey is July to August. You can expect a huge crowd and high costs for everything.
Are there things to do in Antalya during winter?
Yes, there are a few things you can do that are undisturbed by the weather. You can visit historical sights, discover local food places, take workshops, and try the Turkish Bath. While Antalya is a coastal region, you may not enjoy the beach days. The water will be too cold to swim in, and the water sports will get cancelled due to bad weather.
