Antalya Coast
Golden beaches, waterfalls and the old gate of Kaleiçi.
About Antalya Coast
Antalya combines spectacular beaches with a rich historical heritage spanning more than 2,000 years. The old town of Kaleiçi ('inside the castle'), with its cobbled lanes, restored Ottoman houses, 2nd-century Hadrian's Gate and ancient Roman harbour, is the heart of a city founded in 150 BC by the king of Pergamon.
But Antalya is also the gateway to one of the greatest concentrations of ancient ruins in the Mediterranean. The theatre of Aspendos, whose perfect acoustics are said to let you hear a coin drop from the back row, and the vast Greco-Roman city of Perge, with its stadium, agora and colonnaded street, are two of the most impressive sites in the whole of Türkiye.
The Düden and Kurşunlu waterfalls, which plunge straight from the cliffs into the Mediterranean, and the endless beaches of Konyaaltı and Lara complete a destination that offers both culture and relaxation. The Antalya Archaeological Museum, one of the best in Türkiye, displays extraordinary pieces from Perge, Aspendos and the nearby Lycian cities.
What to See in Antalya Coast
Kaleiçi (Old Town)
The historic heart of Antalya: cobbled streets, Ottoman houses with gardens, boutique hotels, atmospheric restaurants and the ancient Roman harbour. Hadrian's Gate (AD 130), the Clock Tower, the Yivli Minaret (fluted, the symbol of the city) and the Kesik Minaret Mosque are its jewels.
Read more about Kaleiçi (Old Town)Aspendos Theatre
One of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world, built in AD 155 for 15,000 spectators. Its acoustics are legendary: it's said that a coin dropped on the stage can be heard from the back row. It is still used for concerts and for the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival.
Read more about Aspendos TheatreRuins of Perge
A vast Greco-Roman city with a stadium for 12,000 people, monumental Hellenistic towers, a 300-metre colonnaded street, an agora, Roman baths and a theatre. It was the home town of Artemisia of Perge, a mathematician of antiquity.
Read more about Ruins of PergeDüden Waterfalls
Two spectacular waterfalls: the Upper Düden (in a park with caves behind the curtain of water) and the Lower Düden, which drop 40 metres from the cliffs straight into the Mediterranean. The best view of the lower falls is from a boat.
Antalya Archaeological Museum
One of the most important museums in Türkiye, with an extraordinary collection of sculptures from Perge (the Hall of the Gods), sarcophagi, mosaics, coins and objects from prehistory to the Ottoman period. Essential for appreciating the region's historical wealth.
Read more about Antalya Archaeological MuseumMust-See Places
Food in Antalya Coast
Antalya is famous for piyaz (a bean salad with tahini, vinegar and hard-boiled egg), which here is raised to an art form. Şiş köfte (chargrilled meatballs) with piyaz is the classic Antalya meal.
Antalya oranges are celebrated throughout Türkiye: you'll find fresh juice everywhere. In the restaurants of Kaleiçi and the harbour, grilled fish and meze with rakı make the best dinner. Antalya ice cream (dondurma) in local flavours such as pistachio and kaymak is the perfect dessert for a stroll around the old harbour.
Practical Tips
- Visit Aspendos and Perge in a single morning, and spend the afternoon in the old town of Kaleiçi and the harbour.
- The Lower Düden Waterfalls are best seen from a boat trip leaving from the old harbour: combine the cruise with the falls.
- The heritage tram runs along the main avenue and links Kaleiçi with Konyaaltı beach: practical and picturesque.
- September–October is the best time: the sea is warm and the summer crowds have gone.
- The Archaeological Museum deserves at least 2 hours. It's on Konyaaltı Avenue, on the way to the beach.
Getting There
Antalya Airport (AYT) is one of the busiest in Türkiye, with direct flights from Istanbul (1 h 15 min) and from many European cities. The AntRay tram links the centre with the tourist areas. From the airport there are Havaş buses to the centre (45 min).
Antalya also has excellent bus connections with Pamukkale (3.5 h), Konya (4 h), Fethiye (3 h) and Kaş (3.5 h). The bus station (otogar) is linked to the centre by tram.
Frequently Asked Questions about Antalya Coast
How many days do I need to visit Antalya Coast?
I recommend spending at least 2 days in Antalya Coast so you can see the main sights at a relaxed pace. If you have more time, you can combine it with nearby destinations to make the most of your trip.
When is the best time to visit Antalya Coast?
The best time to visit Antalya Coast is April to November. That said, every season has its charm, and Türkiye is a destination you can enjoy all year round.
Can I visit Antalya Coast with an English-speaking guide?
Yes. As a licensed, English-speaking tour guide in Türkiye, I organise private tours and day tours in Antalya Coast. Every itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
How do I get to Antalya Coast from Istanbul?
Depending on the destination, you can get there by domestic flight (1–1.5 h), by coach or by private car. On the tours I organise, transport is included and planned to make the most of your sightseeing time.
Can I include Antalya Coast in a longer tour of Türkiye?
Of course. Antalya Coast combines easily with other destinations in Türkiye. I design tailor-made itineraries of 7, 10, 12 or 15 days that include this and other fascinating places.
Want to visit Antalya Coast with a licensed, English-speaking guide? Book your private guide in Türkiye and we'll plan the itinerary together.
Read More about Antalya Coast
Guides, tips and stories to help you plan your visit.
Antalya: What to See and Do on Türkiye's Mediterranean Coast
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