MileHacker Logo
Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Mediterranean Coast, Turkey

Air Travel to Antalya

Antalya Airport & Airlines

Antalya Airport (AYT) is the main international airport serving the region, ranking among Turkey's busiest, especially during peak tourist season. It has multiple terminals (two international, one domestic). AYT serves as a major gateway for charter flights from Europe.

Airlines

  • Turkish Airlines: Frequent direct flights from Istanbul and other Turkish cities.
  • Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, Corendon Airlines: Prominent low-cost and leisure carriers.
  • Major European Carriers: Lufthansa, British Airways, KLM, Condor, TUI Airways, Ryanair, easyJet.

Direct Flights & Seasonality

Direct flights to Antalya Airport are predominantly from European cities. Travelers from major global hubs outside Europe typically require a connecting flight, most commonly through Istanbul. Flight frequency and direct routes increase significantly during the summer tourist season (May to October).

Flight Information

  • Most common connection points: Istanbul (IST or SAW) or major European hubs.
  • Prices for flights are highest during peak season (July-August).
  • Lowest prices generally during low season (November-March). Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Airport Facilities

Antalya Airport is well-equipped with duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental agencies, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi. Check Skyscanner for flight options.

Transfer Options

Options from AYT to city/accommodation: Havaş Shuttle Buses, Antray Tram, Public Bus (No. 600), Taxis, Private Transfers, or Car Rental.

Car Rental

Major international and local car rental companies have desks at the airport. Consider DiscoverCars.com for bookings.

Antalya Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

  • No specific departure tax is typically levied on tourists departing Turkey.
  • Such fees are usually included in your airfare at the time of ticket purchase.
  • For international flights: Arrive at AYT at least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For domestic flights: 1.5-2 hours before departure is usually sufficient.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

  • Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and various retail outlets are available.
  • Numerous dining options exist to grab a meal or snack.
  • Several airline and private lounges offer comfortable spaces.
  • Free Wi-Fi helps you stay connected until your flight.

Land Transportation Details

Border Crossings

Generally relevant for travel from nearby countries like Georgia, Bulgaria, or Greece. Always check current travel advisories.

Train Connections

Antalya generally does not have direct intercity train connections for passenger transport. Not a practical option for major city travel.

Sea/River Arrivals

Antalya Port serves as a commercial port and cruise ship stop. No regular passenger ferry services to other countries or major domestic ports.

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Turkish Bus Network

Turkey boasts an excellent and highly efficient intercity bus (otobüs) network, which is the main mode of long-distance land transport for many locals and tourists.

Bus Information

  • Antalya Otogar (Bus Terminal) is a large, modern facility serving routes across Turkey.
  • Major Companies: Metro Turizm, Kamil Koç (FlixBus), Pamukkale Turizm, Ulusoy.
  • Buses offer amenities like Wi-Fi, entertainment screens, complimentary snacks.

Popular Routes & Booking

You easily find direct bus services from major Turkish cities and towns.

Travel Connections

  • Routes: Istanbul (10-12 hrs), Ankara (7-8 hrs), Izmir (7-8 hrs), Cappadocia (8-10 hrs), Pamukkale (3-4 hrs).
  • Booking: Online through company websites, at bus terminals, or travel agencies.
  • Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular routes or holidays.

Self-Driving Essentials

Non-Turkish citizens typically require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in conjunction with their national driver's license. The IDP acts as a translation of your license.

Driving Requirements

  • IDP along with your national driver's license.
  • Major highways are generally well-maintained. Mountain roads can be winding.
  • Turkish drivers can be more aggressive; practice defensive driving. Speed limits are enforced.

Driving Laws & Parking

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Do not use a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free system. Drunk driving is strictly illegal with a zero-tolerance policy.

Parking Information

  • Paid parking lots are available in city centers and near popular attractions.
  • Parking in city centers can be challenging; look for paid parking lots.
  • In Kaleiçi, vehicle access is restricted. Use parking lots outside the Old Town.

Important Land Travel Notes

  • Always check current travel advisories from your home government before planning a land border crossing.
  • Train travel is not a practical option for reaching Antalya from Istanbul, Ankara, or other major tourist destinations.
  • Be prepared for sudden stops or maneuvers by local drivers.
  • For bus departures, arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your bus departure.
  • Avoid parking in no-parking zones to prevent towing.
  • Pay attention to boarding announcements and gate changes at the airport.

Sea & River Access

Ferry & Cruise Ports

Antalya Port (Antalya Limanı) mainly functions as a commercial port for cargo and, increasingly, as a port of call for international cruise ships. Passengers disembark for day excursions into the city and surrounding areas.

Sea Travel Notes

  • Some Mediterranean cruise itineraries include Antalya as a stop.
  • No regular passenger ferry services connect Antalya directly to other countries or major domestic ports.
  • For ferry connections to Greek islands, travel further west along the Turkish coast.

Immigration & River Transport

For cruise ship passengers, immigration procedures are typically handled onboard the ship or at a dedicated cruise terminal. You present your passport to Turkish immigration officials who process your entry.

Arrival Logistics

  • Immigration procedures are generally streamlined for cruise visitors.
  • River transportation is not applicable for reaching Antalya.
  • From Antalya Port, taxis are available to take cruise passengers into the city center.

Smooth Procedures

Immigration at seaports is typically efficient for cruise visitors.

Land Connections

Organized shore excursions usually include bus transfers from the port.

General Info

For general commuting, ferries or river transport are not available in Antalya.

Self-Driving & Rentals

Car Rental Information

Major international car rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, Enterprise) and numerous local Turkish agencies operate at Antalya Airport and within the city center.

Rental Requirements

  • Age: Drivers generally need to be at least 21-25 years old.
  • Driver's License: Valid national license + International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Credit Card: A major credit card is for a security deposit.

Motorcycle & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available, especially in tourist areas. Bicycle rentals are available at shops, notably near Konyaaltı and Lara beach promenades.

Two-Wheel Options

  • Motorcycles/Scooters: Valid motorcycle license is for rentals. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Bicycles: Dedicated bike paths exist along beach promenades.
  • Safety: Scooters are less safe than cars. Wear appropriate protective gear.

Rental Option Summary

Car Rental

Provides flexibility and access to remote sites. Traffic and parking can be challenging. Average daily cost: TRY 700-2000+.

Scooter Rental

Maneuverable and fuel-efficient. Less safe, a motorcycle license is for use. Average daily cost: TRY 400-800.

Bicycle Rental

Eco-friendly and good for short distances/promenades. Limited range, weather dependent. Average daily cost: TRY 150-300.

Driving in Antalya

Major roads and highways around Antalya are generally in good condition. Be aware of speed cameras. Parking in city centers can be challenging; look for paid parking lots. Avoid parking in no-parking zones to prevent towing.