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Antalya is a city that blends the best of Turkey’s rich history and stunning Mediterranean coastline. Known as the Gateway to Turkey's Turquoise Coast, this beautiful city is a destination where ancient ruins meet stunning beaches, and lively urban life complements serene natural landscapes. As a first-time visitor, Antalya promises something for everyone—from adventure seekers and history buffs to those simply looking to unwind by the sea.

As a major hub of the Turkish Riviera, the city boasts an extraordinary blend of hidden coves, scenic waterfalls, bustling marinas, and charming old towns. From the cobbled streets of Kaleiçi, relaxing on Konyaaltı Beach to the ancient Roman cities, Antalya offers a range of experiences.

Chill at Lower Düden Waterfalls

The Lower Düden Waterfalls are located just 10 km from Antalya’s city center, where the Düden River cascades dramatically over cliffs directly into the Mediterranean Sea. A perfect spot for relaxation, the sound of rushing water combined with the sea breeze offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

How to Get There: To reach the Lower Düden Waterfalls, you can take a short taxi ride from the city center, or hop on a local bus. Public buses 60 or LC07 will drop you near the falls. It’s about a 20-minute journey from the center of Antalya. If you're driving, follow the signs for Lara Beach, and you’ll see signs for the waterfalls.

Crowd Times: The waterfall is busiest from late morning to mid-afternoon, especially during the summer months. To avoid the crowds, plan your visit early in the day or just before sunset.

Pro Tip: There are vendors nearby selling snacks and drinks, but you might want to bring a small picnic and enjoy the peaceful setting. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, you can also take a boat tour that will give you a different perspective of the falls from the water.

Exploring Kaleiçi (Old Town)

Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic Old Town, is a maze of narrow, winding streets packed with Ottoman-era houses, Roman ruins, and charming shops. The centerpiece is Hadrian’s Gate, a triumphal arch built to honor the Roman emperor's visit to the city. Don’t miss exploring the Yivli Minare Mosque, the iconic fluted minaret that towers over the city. The Old Town also houses quaint boutiques where you can shop for traditional Turkish handicrafts.

What to Watch Out For: Kaleiçi’s streets can be steep and uneven in places, so wear comfortable shoes. Be cautious about souvenir prices, as some vendors in tourist areas may charge a premium.

How to Get There: Located right in the heart of Antalya, Kaleiçi is easily accessible by foot from most city center hotels. If you’re coming from further out, local trams and buses stop nearby, and there’s parking available just outside the Old Town if you’re driving. Look for signs for "Kale Kapısı" (the main gate), and you’ll be in the heart of Kaleiçi.

Crowd Times: The Old Town gets busier as the day goes on, with peak hours being around midday and into the early evening when tourists flock to explore the historic sites and grab a bite to eat.

Pro Tip: If you want to experience Kaleiçi’s charm without the crowds, visit in the early morning or evening. During these times, the streets are quieter, and you can enjoy the beauty of the architecture without distraction. Also, don’t miss the panoramic views from Karaalioglu Park, which offers a stunning lookout over the Mediterranean.

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A Day at Konyaaltı Beach

What to Do: Konyaaltı Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Antalya, known for its crystal-clear waters and long stretch of pebbly shoreline. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the promenade. The beach is also backed by a beautiful park filled with cafes, playgrounds, and shaded areas.

What to Watch Out For: Konyaaltı’s waters can get deep fairly quickly, so be cautious if you’re not a strong swimmer. During the high season, parts of the beach can become overcrowded with both locals and tourists. Some areas may also charge for sun loungers and umbrellas, so plan ahead if you don’t want to spend extra money.

How to Get There: Konyaaltı Beach is located just west of the city center. You can get there via the KL08 bus from the center, or by taking a taxi (a 10-15 minute drive depending on traffic). If you’re driving, there’s ample parking along the beach.

Crowd Times: The beach is busiest in the afternoon, particularly from 12 PM to 4 PM. For a more peaceful beach day, arrive early in the morning or after 5 PM when the crowds have thinned.

Pro Tip: Pack your essentials—sunscreen, water, and snacks. Konyaaltı Beach has several free sections, so you don’t need to rent a sun lounger if you’re just looking to relax on the pebbles.

Hadrian’s Gate

What to Do: Hadrian’s Gate is a stunning triumphal arch that was built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian’s visit to Antalya in 130 AD. It’s the only remaining entrance gate of the ancient city walls, and it serves as a grand entrance to the Old Town. Take time to marvel at its intricately carved stonework and imagine what life was like when it was bustling with Roman soldiers and traders.

What to Watch Out For: Due to its popularity, Hadrian’s Gate can get busy during the day, making it hard to snap a good photo. Be cautious of the uneven ground around the gate, and watch for traffic passing through, as it is still used by pedestrians.

How to Get There: Hadrian’s Gate is located at the entrance to Kaleiçi, just a short walk from the main areas of the city. If you’re staying anywhere in the center of Antalya, it’s an easy stroll. You can also take the tram to the Kale Kapısı stop, and it’s a 5-minute walk from there.

Crowd Times: It’s busiest in the afternoon and early evening, so if you’re hoping for uninterrupted photos, plan your visit early in the morning.

Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise when the light is soft, and the streets are quiet. This is also a great time to take a walk through the nearby parks and gardens that border the Old Town.

Relaxing on a Mediterranean Boat Trip

A boat trip along the Mediterranean coast is a must-do when visiting Antalya. These tours typically depart from the Antalya Marina and take you on a scenic journey along the coast, past towering cliffs, secluded coves, and picturesque islands. Most boat trips stop for swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

What to Watch Out For: Some boat trips can get quite crowded, especially in peak tourist season. Be sure to book in advance and choose a reputable operator that limits the number of passengers for a more comfortable experience.

How to Get There: Most boat trips leave from Antalya Marina, located in Kaleiçi. You can walk there if you're staying in the city center or take a taxi or tram from other areas. Once there, you’ll see signs for various tour operators offering different boat trips.

Crowd Times: Morning boat trips tend to be less crowded than those later in the day. If you prefer a quieter experience, opt for a tour that departs early, around 9 AM.

Pro Tip: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and your swimwear, as most trips stop for swimming breaks. If you’re prone to seasickness, take motion sickness tablets beforehand.

Visit Termessos: A Mysterious, Secluded City in The Mountains

Located high in the Taurus Mountains, the ancient city of Termessos is one of Turkey’s best-preserved archaeological sites. Unlike many other ruins in the region, Termessos was never conquered by Alexander the Great, and its remote, elevated location gives it a mysterious, untouched atmosphere.

What to Do:

Explore the well-preserved amphitheater, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wander through the ancient city’s remnants, including temples, cisterns, and a gymnasium. The site is surrounded by lush greenery, making it perfect for a quiet, reflective hike through history.

The hike up to the ruins is steep and can be challenging, especially in hot weather. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as there are no facilities nearby.

How to Get There:

Termessos is located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Antalya. You can drive there via the Antalya-Burdur highway, and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Once you reach the park entrance, it’s a short but steep walk to the ancient site.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. The views are stunning at sunrise, and you'll have the ruins mostly to yourself.

Walk Among The Ruins of The Ancient City of Perge

Just outside of Antalya lies the ancient city of Perge, one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkey. Dating back to the Hellenistic period (323 B.C.E to 31 B.C.E), Perge was once a thriving Roman city, known for its impressive stadium, large theater, and monumental gates.

What to Do:

Walk along the main colonnaded street, lined with ancient pillars and surrounded by ruins of temples, Roman baths, and shops. Explore the stadium, which could hold up to 12,000 spectators in its heyday, and visit the theater to imagine what life was like in ancient times.

What to Watch Out For:

The site is quite large, and it can take a few hours to explore it all, especially in the summer heat. Make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

How to Get There:

Perge is located about 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from Antalya. It’s easily accessible by car or public bus from the Antalya city center. The journey takes around 30 minutes.

Pro Tip: Go early to avoid the heat, and bring a guidebook or hire a local guide to fully appreciate the rich history of Perge. The site is vast, and having a guide can enhance your experience by explaining the significance of the ruins.

Explore The Stunning City of Olympos and Marvel at The Burning Chimera

A visit to Olympos, an ancient Lycian city near Antalya, offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Nestled in a stunning valley surrounded by dense forests and near the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the ruins of Olympos are scattered across the landscape.

Nearby, you can visit the famous Chimera, a natural gas phenomenon where flames spontaneously rise from the mountainside, creating a mystical sight that has been burning for millennia.

What to Do:

Explore the scattered ruins of Olympos, including ancient tombs, a theater, and remnants of Roman baths, all surrounded by nature. Afterward, take a short hike up to see the eternal flames of Chimera, especially magical at night when the flames illuminate the dark mountainside.

What to Watch Out For:

The Chimera hike is moderate, with rocky and uneven paths. It can be tricky to navigate, especially at night, so bring sturdy shoes and a flashlight.

How to Get There:

Olympos is about 85 kilometers (53 miles) southwest of Antalya. The drive takes about 1.5 hours. You can also take a bus or join an organized tour from Antalya. The hike to Chimera starts near the village of Çıralı, which is nearby.

Pro Tip: Bring marshmallows or a snack to roast over the Chimera flames for a fun, memorable experience. Visit the ruins of Olympos in the afternoon, then head to Chimera for sunset and watch the flames in the dark for the most striking views.

Party All Night at Holly Stone

Holly Stone is a popular nightclub located in the Old Town (Kaleiçi) area of Antalya. Kaleiçi is known for its vibrant nightlife, charming narrow streets, and ancient architecture, making it the perfect setting for an eclectic night out. The club is a bit tucked away, but you’ll spot it easily once you're in the heart of the Old Town.

Cover Charge:

On weekdays like Tuesday, there is no cover charge. However, on weekends or during special events, there may be a cover charge depending on the crowd and season. It's best to check with the club in advance or arrive early.

Drink Prices:

• Cocktails: 50-70 TRY ($2-$3 USD)

• Beers and Basic Drinks: 30-40 TRY ($1.50 USD)

On a weekday, the club is more relaxed and laid-back. The crowds are almost always a good mix of locals and tourists, providing an international yet familiar atmosphere. The club features a mix of dance and electronic music, paired with a decent sound system and lighting setup. If you're looking for a livelier, high-energy night out, it’s best to visit during the weekend.

Cruise Your Way Through The Mediterranean Landscape

This full-day boat trip from Antalya begins with a 3-hour drive to the harbor, where you board a large boat that can accommodate up to 300 passengers. Prices for the boat trip range from 150-250 TRY, depending on the package you choose. Some packages may offer additional perks like guided tours, premium seating, or a more diverse menu for lunch. Because of the large size of the boat, even during peak season, you’re likely to find a comfortable spot to enjoy the views.

Tour Details:

• Canyon Tour: The boat journey takes you through stunning Mediterranean landscapes, with towering cliffs and impressive canyons as part of the scenery.

• Island Stop: You’ll stop at a picturesque island where you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear water. If you're in the mood, you can try your hand at fishing.

• Lunch: The tour includes a buffet-style lunch featuring spaghetti, meatballs, or freshly caught fish. The lunch spot offers breathtaking views of turquoise waters and the surrounding island landscape, adding to the overall experience.

As the boat trip is a popular activity, it’s recommended to book your spot in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the stunning views. Don’t forget a towel and swimwear if you plan to swim.

Pro Tip: For the best experience, check the weather beforehand. A sunny day will make the boat trip far more enjoyable and provide better conditions for swimming and sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on Exploring Antalya

Antalya is a city that has it all—history, natural beauty, and adventure. From the ancient ruins, the Mediterranean sun, to the waterfalls, this city seamlessly blends the best of Turkey’s past and present. For first-time visitors, following this guide will help you uncover Antalya’s best-kept secrets and enjoy a fulfilling, enriching experience. You might also want to check out our guides to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and our general guide to navigating Turkey.

Grab your hat and prepare to dive into the endless charm and history that Antalya has waiting for you!