Antalya itinerary — 4 days
Day 1 — Antalya
8 stops · ≈ 4 h 39 minTekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque is a historic domed mosque dating back to the 1600s, named after a prominent grand vizier of the Ottoman Empire. Situated amidst bustling streets, this mosque offers an oasis of peace with its beautiful minimalistic design. Nearby highlights include Kesik Minare, a structure from the 2nd century that has transitioned between being a church and mosque over time, and the picturesque marina offering stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hills.
Kaleiçi, the historic center of Antalya, is a charming old town filled with Byzantine, Ottoman, and Roman ruins, including the iconic Hadrian's Gate. As you wander through its ancient narrow streets and steep staircases, be sure to wear comfortable footwear to navigate the slippery roads. If you plan on visiting other historical sites like Aspendos Amphitheater or Termessos, expect long hikes and consider wearing soft shoes for the journey.
Roman Harbour, located in the city center of Antalya, is also known as Uckapilar or the 'Three Gates'. This historical harbor was initially established by the Romans and later developed for trade and naval expeditions during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Today, it is a popular spot for various seaside activities such as boating, swimming, fishing, and clubbing. Visitors can enjoy boat rides offered by multiple companies to explore the scenic and peaceful area with waterfalls and hotels.
Old City Marina, also known as Kaleic Marina, is a charming and picturesque harbor situated in the heart of Antalya's historic district. The area is a maze of narrow streets filled with independent shops and restaurants to explore. Visitors can spend a day or two wandering through this scenic corner of Antalya, which is home to various historical sites.
Mermerli Beach is a picturesque and charming spot located in Antalya, Turkey. It boasts stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding cliffs. The beach is known for its clear blue waters and soft golden sand, making it an ideal place to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the shoreline or enjoy various water activities such as swimming and snorkeling.
Kaleiçi Old Town is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered, making it essential to dedicate an entire day to explore its charm. The surrounding park boasts stunning views perfect for capturing panoramic photographs. As you wander through the cobbled streets, don’t miss iconic landmarks like Hadrian's Gate and Hidirlik Tower. This area not only offers a glimpse into history but also provides ample opportunities for souvenir shopping in quaint shops where haggling is part of the fun.
Hidirlik Tower, a round stone structure dating back to the 2nd century CE, stands on the western edge of Antalya's old town amid the picturesque Karaalioglu park. Believed to have been part of the city's ancient fortifications, its original purpose remains a mystery, with theories ranging from a mausoleum to a watchtower or lighthouse for the bustling port below.
Karaalioglu Park is a picturesque urban green space in Antalya, offering stunning sea views and the ruins of a Roman stone tower. Situated near the old town of Kaleici, it provides a tranquil retreat with elements of nature beautifully presented. The park features tall trees, palm trees, flowers, and spacious areas with benches for relaxation. It's a popular spot for locals seeking fresh air on hot summer days.
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15If you have time left — worth it too.
Kurşunlu Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder situated in Kursunlu Nature Park near Antalya, Turkey. The park spans 587 hectares and boasts picturesque picnic areas alongside the Aksu River tributary. Visitors can revel in the tranquility of the lush surroundings as they explore well-maintained walking paths that wind through the verdant forest. The waterfall itself is a captivating sight, framed by vibrant greenery and offering a serene escape into nature.
Perge Ancient City, located just 18km north of Antalya, is a significant site in ancient Pamphylia. It has a rich history dating back to the Hittites around 1500 BCE and was inhabited continuously until the Byzantine era. The city was ruled by various powers including the Persians, Athenians, Alexander the Great, and the Romans.
Termessos Ruins, located atop Güllük Mountain within the Mount Gulluk-Termessos National Park, offer a captivating experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Accessible via hiking trails, this well-preserved Pisidian city sits over 1,000 feet above sea level and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The site features ancient ruins including a theater, tombs, baths, schools, and churches.
Nestled along the stunning Lara coast, Sandland is a mesmerizing open-air museum that transforms the art of sand sculpting into an extraordinary experience. Spanning a vast 10,000 square meters, this attraction features intricate sculptures crafted by talented artists from around the globe. Each year brings a new theme to life through breathtaking recreations of iconic landmarks and mythical creatures, including famous sites like the Eiffel Tower and Egyptian sphinxes.
Termessos Site 1, located in the mountains, was a stronghold of the Pisidian people who fiercely defended their independence against Greek and Roman conquest. The ruins are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into this ancient civilization's way of life. Visitors can explore the clean and impressive site, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and those interested in ancient civilizations.
Selfie Park Antalya is a fun place to visit with various photo booths for creating unique selfies. The park offers drinks, snacks, and souvenir booths, making it an enjoyable experience for all ages. It's a clean and modern facility with friendly staff and different themed rooms for capturing memorable photos. Visitors can spend as much time as they want in each selfie room and enjoy the on-site food and drink options.
Amoor Beach Restaurant in Antalya offers a stunning location with breathtaking views of the beach and the Mediterranean Sea. The staff is incredibly polite and attentive, ensuring a spotless beach and providing great service. The ambiance is relaxed, making it perfect for a leisurely lunch or drinks. Visitors can rent day beds right on the seafront for a reasonable price and enjoy delicious food, particularly the fresh and perfectly cooked seafood platter.
Patara Yapi Tasarim is situated approximately 40 km from Kas and was once the capital of the Lycian Union. The city played a significant role in the union's affairs, hosting crucial meetings in its parliament, whose ruins can still be explored today. As one of six cities with voting privileges within the union, Patara held prominence during various historical eras.
The Land of Legends Ticket offers a family-friendly experience in Antalya, Turkey. This entertainment city features a Disney-esque castle with Islamic architecture and a variety of attractions suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rollercoasters, toddler-friendly rides, spectacular shows, musical performances, and meet-and-greets with fun characters. The complex also includes swimming facilities, sports car shows, high-speed trains, and various entertainment options.
Konyaaltı Beach is a stunning pebble beach that extends for a considerable distance, offering visitors the opportunity to engage in various sports activities such as basketball and football. The beach provides breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and is situated between the marina and rugged crags, with Mermerli Beach nearby where top yachts can be spotted. Additionally, Konyaaltı Beach boasts numerous restaurants, providing an array of dining options for visitors to enjoy.
Konyaaltı Beaches in Antalya offer a picturesque setting with crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood. The well-equipped beach provides amenities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, beach bars, and restaurants. Visitors can also partake in water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Additionally, the area is known for its large all-inclusive hotels that boast top-notch facilities.
Nestled in the scenic city of Antalya, the Antalya Zoo is a 400-acre wildlife sanctuary that has been welcoming visitors since 1989. The zoo boasts an array of animals including tigers, lions, flamingos, bears, snakes, ducks, rabbits, goats, zebras and donkeys. Families can enjoy picnics in the spacious grounds and observe majestic lions and playful monkeys.
Termessos Endüstriyel is a historical site located just under an hour from the city center. It offers breathtaking views and great hiking opportunities. Dating back to 333 BC, the place provides stunning panoramic views that stretch for miles on clear days. Visitors can immerse themselves in history while enjoying the natural beauty of the area through hiking tours.
Yivli Minare, also known as the Fluted Minaret, stands as a prominent symbol in Antalya's old town quarter. Constructed by the Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, this historic monument serves as a reliable compass for orientation. With its unique fluted design, it is an iconic landmark that offers insight into the region's rich history and architectural heritage.
Aspendos Sinemasi is located in the ancient city of Aspendos, established by the Achaeans around the 10th century BC. The Roman theatre within this historical site is renowned as one of the best-preserved in the Mediterranean region, with a capacity to accommodate 12,000 individuals. Constructed during the peak of the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD, it stands as a testament to ancient architectural and engineering prowess.
- Learn a few basic Turkish phrases; locals appreciate it.
- Bargain at local markets for better prices.
- Use sunscreen as the sun can be strong, especially in summer.