10 PLACES YOU MUST SEE FIRST IN ANTALYA
Top 10 Places to See in Antalya
Antalya, with its magnificent nature and thousands of years of rich history, is one of Turkey’s richest tourism centers. If you are traveling to the city for the first time, I have compiled 10 of the most iconic places that should be at the top of your travel list:
- Kaleiçi (Muratpaşa)
Kaleiçi, the historical heart of Antalya, has a captivating atmosphere with its narrow stone streets, Ottoman-era bay-windowed mansions, stylish boutique hotels, and cafes. Every street here opens up to the blue of the Mediterranean. While strolling through the area, you should definitely see the famous Yivli Minaret, a Seljuk heritage site, and the historical Kaleiçi Yacht Harbor.
- Hadrian’s Gate (Üçkapılar)
Located at the entrance to Kaleiçi and known as Üçkapılar among the people, Hadrian’s Gate was built in honor of the arrival of Roman Emperor Hadrian in the city in 130 AD. This marble gate, which has been perfectly preserved to this day, is the most photographed landmark of the city with its detailed carvings and magnificent columns. - Aspendos Ancient Theatre (Serik)
Built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, Aspendos is one of the best-preserved Roman-era theatres not only in Turkey but in the whole world. This massive structure, with a capacity of approximately 15-20 thousand people, has such perfect acoustics that it still hosts international opera, ballet, and concert events today. - Düden Waterfall (Kepez & Muratpaşa)
One of the most popular destinations in Antalya city center for spending time surrounded by nature. It manifests itself in two different locations: Upper Düden (Kepez), located in a lush green park with a cave below, offers a peaceful atmosphere. Lower Düden (Lara), on the other hand, is a magnificent viewpoint surrounded by viewing terraces and parks, where the waters cascade directly into the Mediterranean Sea from a height of approximately 40 meters from the cliffs. - Olympos Ancient City and Çıralı (Kumluca)
Olympos is where nature, history, and the sea come together in the most unpretentious and bohemian way. Walking through the ancient ruins, trees, and sarcophagi of one of the most important port cities of the Lycian civilization, you reach the famous Olympos Beach. The nearby Çıralı Beach is a nesting area for Caretta Caretta sea turtles. You can also climb to see Yanartaş, the natural gas fire that has been burning for thousands of years in Çıralı, in the evening. - Phaselis Ancient City and Bay (Kemer)
Hidden within the pine forests of a national park, Phaselis was a long-established trading city with three protected ancient harbors. Today, you can walk among its aqueducts, agora, and theater while swimming in the shallow, calm sea of the ancient harbors. It’s a perfect route to combine a historical tour with sea enjoyment in the same day. - Side Ancient City (Manavgat)
Captivating with its unique location by the sea, Side is like a magnificent open-air museum built on a peninsula. Besides its ancient theater, agora, and massive city gate, its most iconic point is the Temple of Apollo rising on the coast. Especially at sunset, watching the sun set behind the historical columns and taking photos is one of the must-do experiences in Antalya. - Köprülü Canyon National Park (Manavgat)
For adventure and nature enthusiasts, Köprülü Canyon is the number one destination in Antalya. The Köprüçay River, one of Turkey’s most popular rafting routes, flows through this canyon. The historic Oluk Bridge over the river offers a breathtaking view; you can enjoy activities such as body rafting, hiking, and camping along the canyon, and eat fresh trout at the restaurants along the river. - Antalya Archaeology Museum (Muratpaşa)
The Antalya Museum, which has been awarded the world’s most prestigious prizes, houses a unique collection unearthed from excavations in the region. The “Sarcophagi Hall” and the “Hall of Gods,” displaying fascinating Roman-era sculptures from the ancient city of Perge, have made the museum world-renowned. It is a must-visit to fully understand the rich history of the region.
10. Konyaaltı Beaches
Located west of the city center, Konyaaltı boasts a wide coastline stretching for kilometers, famous for its view of the majestic Beydağları (Toros Mountains) behind it. The modern walking paths, bike trails, green parks, restaurants, and living spaces along this blue flag beach are a favorite meeting point throughout the day for both local and foreign visitors who want to swim in the sea in summer and enjoy the seaside atmosphere in winter.
About the Author
Türkçe - English->>: 1 2
