Antalya sits along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, with the most beautiful clear water, long stretches of shoreline and crazy scenic mountain backdrops for a city with centuries of history.
In Antalya, you’ll find ancient ruins, traditional neighborhoods and modern coastal life, which is why Antalya is one of the most popular cities for tourists visiting Turkey.
Stunning Mediterranean Coastline
With Antalya, you get the sunlight, salt air and endless blue skies. There are beautiful cliffs and coves where the turquoise water contrasts against the pale stone.
The sea is close to everything you do, with calm coves where you can swim or kayak, or the longer bays for beach activities like paddleboarding or beach volleyball.
You can snorkel near the rocky outcrops, where you’ll see darting fish and colorful marine life just below the surface.
Follow coastal hikes above the hidden inlets so you can enjoy the scenic views, and stay until the evening, to watch the setting sun glowing against the cliffs.
Bustling Markets And Local Shopping Streets
The Antalyan markets are a must-visit with vibrant street vendors scattered through the maze of narrow lanes with spices, dried fruits and glowing lanterns.
Here, you’ll be able to find stalls run by local artisans who have carved wood, hammered copper and woven textiles. Plus, traditional hand-painted ceramics and more intricate kilim rugs.
The scent within the markets is incredible, with the scent of sizzling kebabs, gözleme and the tiny glasses of Turkish tea. You’ll have to be ready for bartering when it comes to the prices, but that is part of the fun of visiting any Turkish market, and not just in Antalya.
Luxury Resorts And Relaxed Seaside Hotels
You’ll be able to find a hotel regardless of your budget. If you like luxury Antalyan resorts, you’ll enjoy the turquoise water, the palm-lined promenades and the sleek infinity pools.
Many Antalya hotels let you enjoy oceanfront dining, where you can enjoy views of the ocean whilst eating your breakfast, lunch or dinner.
If you’re looking for a pampering experience, you’ll find spa retreats offering hammams, traditional Turkish massages and quiet relaxation rooms. If you prefer a more secluded experience, there are private villas tucked into resort grounds, often giving you plunge pools, a butler service and direct beach access.
View the stunning Taurus Mountains, which turn violet when the sun is setting. Take a trip to the rooftop terraces and pier bars to see the sunset in its entirety, of head to beach cabanas for a more chilled and relaxed vibe.
Waterfalls And Nature Just Outside The City
When you’re wanting to do something a little different than just laying by the pool, Antalya is the perfect location for waterfalls and nature.
You can stand at the Düden Waterfalls and watch the torrents plunge straight into the sea, or follow the river upstream to go to the most quiet spots.
Head inland to the Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park, where the shaded hiking trails take you through the pine forests and over the wooden bridges.
If eco tourism matters to you, there are protected pools, nesting birds and gentle wildlife conservation.