Introduction
Antalya is Turkey's most visited city and the gateway to the stunning Turquoise Coast. With its dramatic mountain backdrop, ancient Roman harbour, world-class beaches and vibrant city life, Antalya offers an unbeatable combination of history, nature and modern comfort.
Whether you're arriving for a beach holiday, a city break or using Antalya as a base to explore the surrounding region, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Where is Antalya?
Antalya is located on the southwestern Mediterranean coast of Turkey, in the heart of the Turkish Riviera. Antalya Airport (AYT) is one of Turkey's busiest international airports, with direct flights from across Europe, the UK, Russia and the Middle East.
How to Get from Antalya Airport to the City
The most comfortable and convenient way to reach your hotel from Antalya Airport is by private transfer. The journey to the city centre takes approximately 15–30 minutes depending on your destination.
👉 Book your private transfer from Antalya Airport
Public transport options include the Havas airport bus and local trams, but these involve multiple stops and are less convenient with luggage.
Top Things to Do in Antalya
1. Kalıçi (Old Town)
Antalya's historic old quarter is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman mansions, Roman ruins and boutique hotels. Wander through the ancient Hadrian's Gate, explore the old harbour and discover hidden courtyards and rooftop restaurants with stunning sea views.
2. Hadrian's Gate (Hadrianus Kapısı)
Built in 130 AD to honour the Roman Emperor Hadrian's visit to the city, this magnificent triple-arched marble gate is one of Antalya's most iconic landmarks. Free to visit and beautifully preserved.
3. Antalya Museum
One of Turkey's finest archaeological museums, housing an extraordinary collection of artefacts from the surrounding region including ancient sculptures, sarcophagi and mosaics spanning thousands of years of history.
4. Düden Waterfalls
Antalya has two spectacular waterfalls. The Upper Düden Falls are set in a beautiful park perfect for a picnic, while the Lower Düden Falls plunge dramatically directly into the Mediterranean Sea – best viewed from a boat trip.
5. Konyaaltı Beach
A long pebble beach stretching 7 km west of the city centre, with the dramatic Taurus Mountains as a backdrop. The beach has excellent facilities including sunbeds, restaurants and water sports. Free public access.
6. Lara Beach
Located east of the city, Lara is Antalya's most famous sandy beach and home to many of the region's large all-inclusive resort hotels. The beach stretches for kilometres with calm, warm Mediterranean water.
7. Perge & Aspendos Ancient Cities
Two of Turkey's best-preserved ancient cities are within easy reach of Antalya. Perge (17 km) features impressive Roman colonnaded streets and a stadium, while Aspendos (47 km) has one of the world's best-preserved Roman theatres, still used for concerts today.
8. Termessos
Perched high in the Taurus Mountains at 1.050m altitude, Termessos is a remarkably well-preserved ancient city that even Alexander the Great failed to conquer. The hike through pine forests to the ruins offers breathtaking views.
Best Beaches Near Antalya
- Konyaaltı Beach – 7 km pebble beach, mountain backdrop, free access, city side
- Lara Beach – long sandy beach, resort area, warm calm water
- Klıçarslan Beach – quieter section of Konyaaltı, less crowded
- Belek Beach – 45 km east, fine sand, luxury golf resorts
- Side Beach – 70 km east, beautiful sandy beaches flanking ancient ruins
Where to Stay in Antalya
Kalıçi (Old Town) – most atmospheric area, boutique hotels in restored Ottoman houses, walking distance to the harbour and main sights.
Konyaaltı – modern area west of the city, close to the beach, good value hotels and apartments.
Lara – large all-inclusive resort hotels, ideal for families wanting a full beach holiday experience.
Belek – 45 km east, Turkey's premier golf destination with luxury 5-star resorts.
Where to Eat in Antalya
- Vanilla Restaurant – one of Antalya's finest, stunning harbour views, excellent Turkish and international cuisine
- Parlak Restaurant – legendary local institution, famous for piyaz (white bean salad) and köfte
- Dem Cafe & Restaurant – beautiful old town setting, traditional Turkish breakfast and mezes
- Hasanaga Restaurant – rooftop terrace in the old town, great views and traditional cuisine
- Old Town Harbour Restaurants – fresh seafood with views over the Roman harbour
Best Time to Visit Antalya
The best time to visit Antalya is April–June and September–October – warm and sunny without the intense summer heat.
- April–May: 20–25°C – Ideal for sightseeing ✅
- June: 28–32°C – Great for beaches ✅
- July–August: 35–40°C – Very hot, peak season 🟡
- September–October: 25–32°C – Ideal ✅
- November–March: 12–18°C – Mild, off-season 🟡
Getting Around Antalya
- Tram (Antalya Tramway) – connects the airport, city centre and Konyaaltı Beach
- Dolmuş (minibus) – frequent and cheap connections across the city and to surrounding towns
- Taxi – readily available, use the meter or agree on price in advance
- Car rental – ideal for exploring Perge, Aspendos, Side and the surrounding region
- Private transfer – most convenient for airport arrivals and hotel-to-hotel transfers
Day Trips from Antalya
- Side – 70 km, ancient ruins and beautiful beaches (1 hour by car)
- Belek – 45 km, luxury golf resorts and fine beaches
- Aspendos – 47 km, world's best-preserved Roman theatre
- Alanya – 130 km, dramatic castle, beaches and vibrant resort town (1.5 hours)
- Termessos – 30 km, ancient mountain city, spectacular hiking
- Phaselis – 57 km, ancient ruins on a beautiful pine-fringed bay
Travel Tips for Antalya
- The old town gets very crowded in July and August – visit early morning for the best experience
- Antalya Museum is closed on Mondays
- Boat trips to the Lower Düden Falls depart from Konyaaltı harbour – highly recommended
- Antalya has excellent shopping malls including TerraCity and MarkAntalya
- The city has a good public transport network – the tram is cheap and efficient
Getting Back to the Airport
When it's time to leave, a private transfer from your hotel to Antalya Airport ensures a stress-free departure.
👉 Book your return transfer to Antalya Airport
Travel with confidence – TTT Transfer provides private, fixed-price airport transfers across Turkey. Professional drivers, meet & greet service and flight tracking included.
