{"id":31606,"date":"2022-04-08T13:39:40","date_gmt":"2022-04-08T10:39:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/one-city-three-days-antalya\/"},"modified":"2026-02-10T13:11:09","modified_gmt":"2026-02-10T10:11:09","slug":"one-city-three-days-antalya","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/en\/one-city-three-days-antalya\/","title":{"rendered":"One city, three days: Antalya"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Let\u2019s begin: History of Antalya<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Antalya<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Explaining Antalya\u2019s enchanting atmosphere solely through modern tourism facilities is not enough. To understand the city\u2019s character today, it is necessary to trace the layers of its millennia-old past and see how this deeply rooted history blends with the modern city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meaning \u201cAttalos Land,\u201d Antalya was founded around two thousand years ago as a strategic port city by the bequest of King Attalos II of Pergamon. After the Kingdom of Pergamon, the city became a magnificent trading center of the Roman Empire and, from the Middle Ages onward, came under the rule of great civilizations such as Byzantium, the Seljuks, and the Ottomans. Each civilization left its own signature on the city: the Romans\u2019 monumental gates, the Seljuks\u2019 elegant minarets, and the Ottomans\u2019 examples of civil architecture, among others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, as one of the most dynamic cities in the Republic of T\u00fcrkiye, Antalya not only preserves these works but also continues to welcome the world as a living open-air museum, where concerts are still held in its ancient theaters, life flows uninterrupted in its historic harbor, and the past moves from museums into the streets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Earthly paradise: Places to visit in Antalya<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have arrived at the most dynamic, most exciting part! Where the deep blue sea meets lush greenery, Antalya offers you an astonishing array of places to see. Under the bright sun, breathing in the scent of the sea, you can set off on a thrilling discovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are wondering \u201cWhen is the best time to visit Antalya?\u201d, the city is at its peak in summer. The heat and wide beaches play a big role in this. Yet, with its mild climate, Antalya is a destination you can visit year-round. Spring is especially ideal for those who do not enjoy extreme heat. Also, heavy rain can sometimes occur in Antalya during winter. If you go there during that season, it is worth taking a raincoat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With these details, we can now explore the places to visit in Antalya in more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Historical places in Antalya<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Apollon
Apollon Temple, Side-Antalya<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Among the places to visit in Antalya, we begin with the historical sites. First, we will take a journey through time. Here are some of the most impressive places where you can feel Antalya\u2019s rich history\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ancient cities in Antalya<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"The
Aspendos Antique Theatre, in the Serik district of Antalya.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antalya is one of the most important stops on the world\u2019s archaeological heritage trail, with dozens of ancient cities within its borders. These lands are not just ruins; they are living pages of history that carry thousands of years of social life, engineering marvels, and art into the present. Are you ready to pack your backpack and set off to explore the Mediterranean’s rich history?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Depending on your travel route, you can choose any of these magnificent cities. Some embrace the sea, while others await you high in the Taurus Mountains. Here are the most famous ancient sites:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2022 Side and Perge: centers that best reflect the splendor and urban planning of the Roman period.
\u2022 Aspendos: still hosting international art events, thanks to its flawless acoustics.
\u2022 Termessos: a unique mountain city built like an eagle\u2019s nest on steep cliffs, preserving its natural character better than most.
\u2022 Phaselis and Olympos: where turquoise waters meet ancient harbors and nature intertwines with history.
\u2022 Myra and Simena: destinations that enchant you with Lycian rock tombs and views of sunken cities.
\u2022 Sillyon, Selge and Lyrbe: calmer yet equally impressive routes waiting to be discovered.
\u2022 Limyra, Theimussa and Patara: other key stops that rank among the most valuable parts of the Lycian Way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kalei\u00e7i<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"Kalei\u00e7i
The historical Kalei\u00e7i, located in the city center of Antalya.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Nestled in the heart of the city of Antalya is Kalei\u00e7i, the seafront old town. Featuring stone houses, narrow streets, tropical flowers and citrus trees, this lovely neighborhood also hosts authentic cafes, boutique hotels, and some of the city\u2019s most iconic structures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yivliminare Mosque<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In the historic Kalei\u00e7i district, the Seljuk-style Yivliminare Mosque dates from the thirteenth century. The complex includes the mosque and its distinctive fluted minaret, as well as mausoleums, a madrasah, and a Mevlevi Dervish lodge. It is one of Antalya\u2019s most popular tourist attractions, and was inscribed in the Tentative list of World Heritage Sites in T\u00fcrkiye in 2016.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hadrian\u2019s Gate<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Also known as \u00dc\u00e7kap\u0131lar, Hadrian\u2019s Gate is a remarkable structure erected in 130 AD by the Roman emperor Hadrianus. The gate is the symbolic entrance to Kalei\u00e7i and is one of Antalya\u2019s most significant preserved historical monuments. It also has a stunning architectural design, with two colonnaded facades, three entry arches rising above four pylons and a tower standing on either side. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antalya museums<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The
Stature of a Greek warrior exhibited in the Antalya Museum.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For those who want to enrich their travel experience with cultural depth, Antalya offers world-class museums. To feel the city\u2019s ancient spirit in sheltered galleries and witness a heritage that stretches back millennia, be sure to add these stops to your list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antalya Museum<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Founded by S\u00fcleyman Fikri Erten, the Antalya Museum is now considered one of the world\u2019s most respected archaeological museums. With 13 exhibition halls and open-air galleries, the museum serves visitors and occupies a unique place, especially for its collection of Roman-period sculptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here, you can closely examine the magnificent marble portraits unearthed during the Perge excavations, the famous \u201cWeary Heracles” statue, and the striking sarcophagi. With its wide-ranging collection, from coins to mosaics, from ethnographic objects to works from the Lycian and Pamphylian periods, the museum is a true discovery point where history meets aesthetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suna & \u0130nan K\u0131ra\u00e7 Kalei\u00e7i Museum<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Situated in the heart of Kalei\u00e7i, inside two restored historic mansions, this special museum takes you into the everyday life of 19th-century Antalya. Mannequin scenes that bring old neighborhood life to life, including traditions such as “coffee offering” and “groom\u2019s shave,” are truly striking. On the museum\u2019s upper floor, you can also see one of the world\u2019s most valuable collections of \u00c7anakkale Ceramics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antalya Mevlevihane (Dervish Lodge) Museum<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Set within the serene atmosphere of the Yivli Minaret Complex, this building dates back to the 14th century and stands as one of the city\u2019s most spiritual sites. An ideal stop for understanding Mevlevi dervish culture, the dervishes\u2019 way of life, and their mystical world, the museum also offers a soothing pause in its garden, shaded by centuries-old trees, inviting you to slow down and breathe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antalya Toy Museum<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Opening its doors at Kalei\u00e7i Marina under the curatorship of poet Sunay Ak\u0131n, the museum invites visitors of all ages to revisit their childhood memories. In the space where thousands of antique toys from the 1860s to the present are displayed, rare dollhouses, classic figures, and the earliest examples in the history of toy manufacturing are truly worth seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Natural beauties of Antalya<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Olympos
Olympos Beach, the most beautiful state of nature in Antalya.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In the province of Antalya, nature constantly flaunts its beauty. In addition to the region\u2019s beaches and azure coastlines, there are many natural wonders and scenic landscapes. We\u2019ve listed some of the highlights below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

K\u00f6pr\u00fcl\u00fc Canyon National Park<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Set near the K\u00f6pr\u00fc\u00e7ay River and Selge Ancient City, within Antalya\u2019s Manavgat district, the K\u00f6pr\u00fcl\u00fc Canyon is a spectacular natural wonder \u2013 at 14 kilometers, it is one of T\u00fcrkiye\u2019s longest canyons. The canyon runs through the Taurus Mountains and features two historical bridges, abundant groundwater and breathtaking views. It is popular for activities such as rafting and trekking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Famous waterfalls of Antalya<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Antalya is sometimes called the \u201cregion of waterfalls.\u201d In fact, a few of the waterfalls are within the city limits: the Upper D\u00fcden and Lower D\u00fcden waterfalls are around eight kilometers from Antalya\u2019s city center. The Kur\u015funlu Waterfalls is about 11 kilometers from the Antalya airport. The Manavgat and Sapadere waterfalls are farther from the city \u2013 but worth the drive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Karain Cave<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

One of T\u00fcrkiye\u2019s largest natural karst caves is the Karain Cave. Inhabited by humans at one point, the cave has served as a historical bridge from the Paleolithic period. It is in the Ya\u011fca area, about five or six kilometers from the Antalya-Burdur highway. The nearby Karain Museum has a collection of artefacts from the cave. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sakl\u0131kent<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"Sakl\u0131kent\"
Sakl\u0131kent<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Situated in the Beyda\u011flar\u0131 range, Sakl\u0131kent reveals one of Antalya\u2019s most distinctive sides. In spring, you can ski to the summit and, with just an hour\u2019s drive, descend to the coast and swim in the sea. This geographic diversity makes Antalya one of the world\u2019s rarest travel destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taz\u0131 Canyon<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"Taz\u0131
Taz\u0131 Canyon<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Located at the northernmost edge of K\u00f6pr\u00fcl\u00fc Canyon National Park, this area has become one of the world\u2019s most popular viewpoints in recent years. The river gliding between massive rock walls nearly 200 meters high offers a magnificent panorama reminiscent of Scandinavian fjords. To reach it, you must cross forest trails; yet when you arrive at the summit, the boundless green expanse and the deep valley are so mesmerizing that they make all fatigue vanish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beaches in Antalya<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

And now, let\u2019s discuss Antalya\u2019s best-known feature: its stunning beaches! This coastal province is home to many beautiful beaches; we\u2019ve listed some of our favorite spots below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re spending time on the Ka\u015f side of Antalya, then Kaputa\u015f Beach offers a delightful blend of azure sea and a natural ambiance. The lively Konyaalt\u0131 Beach is a terrific urban alternative and easily accessible \u2013 while this public beach does get busy during the summer months, it is usually quite calm in the early mornings. Another good choice near the city center is Lara Beach, standing out with its soft, golden yellow sand. Further away, Olympos and Adrasan beaches are popular destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Local products: Dining in Antalya<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Antalya
Serpme b\u00f6rek, a type of pastry, one of the local dishes of Antalya.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the most enjoyable aspects of traveling is eating. Antalya\u2019s cuisine is diverse, with dishes and restaurants that appeal to a range of preferences and taste. Meat dishes such as \u00e7\u00f6p \u015fi\u015f (grilled pieces of meat on wooden skewers) and meatballs are popular, as is seafood. The region\u2019s famous salads and olive oil dishes also stand out. To whet your appetite, we\u2019ve listed a few of the area\u2019s local specialties below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n