Antalya is just as popular with couples looking for a romantic getaway as it is with families looking to spend an unforgettable vacation together. So it’s definitely the place for you, whoever you are. So start planning your perfect Turkey vacation. We got you started with this list of ‘Top Seightseeing Places in Antalya’ in one day.
One of Turkey’s most popular holiday destinations, Antalya comes as no surprise thanks to its luxurious hotels, stunning beaches and impressive collection of significant historical attractions. With hot, sunny summers and mild winters, it’s a year-round destination, so there’s never a bad time to visit this charming city on the country’s stunning turquoise coast.
The perfect starting point for your explorations around Antalya , Republic Square is in the heart of the city. This is where big public events and celebrations take place, and on regular days it’s just as good to sit back and people watch. The main focal point of the square is the prominent Ataturk Monument, honoring Kemal Ataturk, the founder of Turkey.
From the square, you can admire the fountains dancing in the sun, enjoy the magnificent view of the marina, or simply walk across the street and visit the famous Yivli Minare Mosque for even better panoramic views of the city.
The distinctive Hadrian’s Gate is one of the most recognizable spots in the city and the main entrance to Kaleiçi, Antalya’s picturesque old town. This historic landmark was built in AD 130 to commemorate Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city.
Part of the best preserved Hellenistic and Roman city walls in the world, the gate features 3 marble arches and 3 imposing towers. You’ll notice some highly detailed sculpting on the gate, but take a closer look at the ceiling as you walk underneath to see some of the most impressive carvings.
Undoubtedly one of Antalya’s greatest attractions, the city’s Old Town (Kaleiçi) is fascinatingly historical and invariably charming. Get lost in the narrow, cobbled streets and enjoy the unique Ottoman houses along the way. Amid a sea of whitewashed buildings and striking terracotta roofs you will find a range of shops, galleries, restaurants and boutique hotels.
Throughout the old town you will find picturesque squares with inviting restaurant seating on the streets and historical monuments as focal points. Be sure to visit the legendary Saat Kulesi, a 19th-century bell tower with rough stone walls. You can easily spot it on the Old Town skyline as you wander around.
Immerse yourself in Turkey’s fascinating history at the vast and comprehensive Antalya Museum. The museum displays artifacts and finds from the Stone Age and Bronze Age through to the Byzantine Empire. In the Hall of Regional Excavations, the focus is on ruins in the area as well as items discovered at sites along the Turkish coast.
The Hall of the Gods has some incredible statues, some of which were found in Perge, and other exhibits also have impressive collections of coins and sarcophagi. Turkey has a rich and complex history, but the museum does an excellent job of making it easier to understand.
Located just outside the city of Antalya, the Düden Waterfalls showcase Turkey’s stunning natural beauty. They are a fascinating sight. The falls consist of two parts: the upper Düden falls, which you can find further inland, and the lower Düden falls. The latter of the two cascades over the cliff plunges into the sea not far from Lara Beach.
You can drive the 30 minutes to the falls yourself, or there are several day trips available if you really want to make the most of your visit and learn everything you need to know from an expert guide. Please write to us we can help you with any excursions you are interested in in Antalya.
A trip to Turkey would not be complete without experiencing one of the many colorful bazaars and doing your best to snag a bargain. Visiting Antalya’s historical basal gives you a fascinating insight into the local culture and Turkish way of life as visitors and locals chat about the best prices on food, clothing, jewelry and handicrafts.
Browse the narrow passageways and follow your senses to the sights and smells that appeal to you the most. Don’t be afraid to put the stallholders down on the price — they expect you to do just that, and it’s all part of the fun.
The ancient Greco-Roman city of Aspendos , particularly the remarkable Roman theater, is an excellent example of Turkish history. Built in AD 155, the impressive theater has certainly stood the test of time. With a height of almost 100 meters, it was designed for 12,000 spectators to be entertained by gladiator duos.
Nowadays you can visit the theater on a day trip from the stark contrast of the bustling city and stroll through the stunning structure yourself. The annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival is also held here for the ultimate theatrical experience.
Stretching the entire coast from Antalya to Ölü Deniz near Fethiye, the popular Lycian Way is an adventurer’s dream. At 540km in total, you’re not expected to walk the full length of the scenic trail (although many people come here to do just that!), but you can always hike or bike along part of the trail .
Pack plenty of sunscreen and water before exploring the area. And of course you need to charge and have your camera ready as you can enjoy incredible views of Turkey’s scenic Lycian coast and the turquoise hues of the Mediterranean Sea.
The lively and glamorous resort of Lara Beach is situated pretty east of Antalya. Las Vegas is often compared to Las Vegas thanks to its extravagant hotels and non-stop entertainment. The biggest attraction in this area is – you guessed it – the beach.
Take a break from exploring the busy sights and experiences of city life and relax on the soft, golden sands of Lara Beach. At 12 km long, you shouldn’t struggle to find the perfect spot to while away an hour or two. The beach also has Blue Flag status, so you can rest assured that it’s clean and safe for bathing.
There’s no better place in town to watch the sunset and enjoy a drink or two than down at the Old Town Marina. Immerse yourself in the surroundings of luxurious yachts, traditional fishing boats and the enchanting backdrop of quaint terracotta roofed houses.
When it’s time for some waterside dining, you’ll find some great restaurants serving fresh seafood, steak and delicious local cuisine, such as Iskele Fish and Steakhouse, Ekici Restaurant or Aynalı. Then, head into the night and wash down your dinner with a cocktail at one of the nearby bars. Enjoy great views of the twinkling city lights reflecting off the marina.
We hope that you like the ‘Top Seightseeing Places in Antalya’ blog page. Enjoy your holiday in Antalya!
