These constitute the must-visit sites that define Antalya’s historical and cultural landscape.
From ancient gates to a bustling old harbor, Antalya's landmarks tell stories of civilizations past and present.
All major landmarks are centrally located or easily accessible, making sightseeing convenient.
A major ancient Pamphylian city, 18 km east of Antalya. Flourished under Greek and Roman rule. Features a well-preserved Roman theater, massive stadium, and colonnaded street. Admission: approx. TRY 400. Allow 2-3 hours. Wear comfortable shoes.
45 km east of Antalya, renowned for its extraordinarily well-preserved Roman theater (2nd century AD). Still used for concerts today. Admission: approx. TRY 300. Consider attending the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival in June/July.
30 km northwest of Antalya, with high levels of the Taurus Mountains. Frequently called the "Eagle's Nest" due to its inaccessible location. Alexander the Great failed to conquer it. Well-preserved theater plus remarkable rock-cut tombs. Admission: approx. TRY 150. Requires a steep uphill walk; wear sturdy hiking shoes.
The region around Antalya is dotted with remarkably preserved ancient cities, a powerful sense of history.
Explore attraction tickets and tours for these ancient sites on GetYourGuide.
Antalya’s natural beauty complements its historical grandeur, with stunning landscapes and refreshing escapes.
The Düden River forms two main waterfall sections. Upper Düden Falls is inland within Düden Park. Lower Düden Falls plunges directly into the Mediterranean Sea.
Lower falls are best viewed from a boat trip from Antalya's Old Harbor. Upper falls park provides a peaceful green escape.
A long pebble beach west of downtown, featuring an extensive promenade. A popular local spot with clear waters and Taurus Mountain views. Have water with you shoes for comfort.
East of downtown, Lara Beach has a long stretch of sandy beach and many luxury all-inclusive resorts. The sand is finer than at Konyaaltı.
A smaller, tranquil waterfall nestled within a beautiful pine forest, 19 km to the northeast part of Antalya. The park features walking trails and picnic areas. A peaceful escape for nature lovers.
Look for the hidden cave behind the main fall. Ideal for a calming few hours, especially on a hot day.
Beyond the main attractions, Antalya holds several lesser-known spots for one-of-a-kind activities and local charm.
A large public park south of Kaleiçi, on cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Antalya. Stunning panoramic views of the sea, Old Harbor, and far away mountains. Visit at sunset for spectacular views.
Located within Kaleiçi, a historical building with a layered past: Roman temple, Byzantine church, then mosque. Its ruined minaret tells a story of successive civilizations.
Antalya offers yet more to discover for those seeking unique experiences.
Discover the lesser-explored facets of Antalya, from serene recreational areas to ancient ruins that hold untold stories. These places bring unique experiences away from typical tourist paths.
Local life and spectacles of nature unfold in these quieter corners, rewarding the curious traveler.
The ancient sites near Antalya are not just ruins; they are open-air institutions provideing a real link to the past. Each stone has a story of empires, trade, plus the daily routine from millennia ago.
Antalya's natural attractions are varied, from powerful waterfalls plunging into the sea to serene forest parks. They are ideal for relaxation, photography, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean climate.
These spots are where local people unwind, enjoy the vistas, and connect with Antalya's laid-back atmosphere. They are great for experiencing the city's true rhythm.
To make the most of your sightseeing, plan your visits based on location and time of day. Early mornings often bring fewer crowds and softer light for photography.
To render your sightseeing comfortable and enjoyable, keep these practical tips in mind.
Antalya can be very sunny, particularly from May to October. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Always carry plenty of h2o, notably when visiting archaeological sites where shade is limited.
Purchase e-tickets where available, or near the entrance. Consider a Museum Pass for multiple sites. Explore options on GetYourGuide.
Many city attractions are reachable by public bus or tram. Purchase an AntalyaKart for easy travel.
Taxis are readily available. Agree on a fare or use the meter. Ride-sharing apps are not widely used for local taxis.
Kaleiçi and some ancient locations have uneven cobblestones and steep paths. Travelers with mobility issues may find certain areas challenging.
Think about guided tours for historical sites to gain insights and avoid logistical concerns. Many tours include transport.
Find tours on GetYourGuideFor exploring sites in the suburbs, having a rental car allows for flexibility. Driving in the city can be busy; navigation is recommended.
The ideal time for sightseeing in Antalya hinges on your tolerance for the heat and the crowds. Spring and autumn months are generally more pleasant.
Capture the beauty of Antalya with these photography suggestions, ensuring memorable shots of its landmarks and natural scenery.
For a truly local experience, take a dolmuş (shared taxi/minibus) to reach some of the less touristy beaches or parks. It's an amazing method to observe daily Turkish life.
Engage with neighborhood vendors at markets; a smile and a few Turkish words go a long way.
From ancient wonders to beautiful natural landscapes, Antalya has a destination for every traveler. The city's rich history and present merge, creating an unforgettable experience.
Walk through centuries of history, from Roman triumphal arches to Ottoman mansions. Each site is a a period in Antalya's compelling story.
Antalya's coastline and mountainous hinterland present breathtaking natural beauty. From cascading waterfalls to expansive beaches, there are landscapes for every taste.
Step back in time at the remarkably preserved ancient cities surrounding Antalya. These archaeological marvels offer deep insights into Roman and Hellenistic life.
Ideal for history devotees and photographers.
Antalya's city center and The Old quarter offer a blend of current amenities and historical charm. Lively streets, bustling markets, and serene parks define the metropolitan experience.
Experience the pulse of daily life in Antalya.
Going beyond traditional sightseeing, Antalya has one-of-a-kind attractions that add depth to your travels. From engaging aquariums to dramatic canyons, discover something new.
Seek out these less-trodden trails for discovery.
Museums and historical sites typically open 08:30 and nearby between 17:30 and 19:00, varying with the season. Always check current schedules online before visiting.
Most key sights have an entry fee, usually ranging from 150 TRY to 400 TRY. Consider purchasing a Museum Pass if you plan to visit multiple historical sites and museums across Turkey.
Early mornings are ideal for popular historical sites to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Sunset brings beautiful light to coastal landmarks and parks.
