1. Kaleiçi (Antalya's Old Town)
Kaleiçi is the historic quarter of Antalya, defined by narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and ancient Roman walls. Entering through Hadrian's Gate, built in 130 AD, brings you directly into a neighborhood that feels completely removed from the modern city surrounding it.
Walking down to the ancient Roman harbour offers clear views of the Mediterranean coastline. The area is filled with boutique cafes, carpet shops, and restored mansions. If you want to experience authentic local flavours, the district features excellent options for traditional yeme içme, ranging from freshly caught sea bass at harbour restaurants to traditional Turkish meze served in quiet courtyards.
2. Düden Waterfalls
The Düden Waterfalls are split into two distinct locations, Upper and Lower Düden, both worth a visit. Upper Düden sits in a leafy park in the north of the city, where you can walk behind the falling water inside a natural cave system. It offers a cool retreat during the warmer summer months.
Lower Düden falls directly off a 40-metre rocky cliff into the sea. You can view it from the surrounding public park in Lara or take a short boat tour from the old harbour for a view from the water. The sea breeze makes it a comfortable spot to pause during a day of sightseeing.
3. Aspendos Ancient Theatre Near Belek
Located roughly 40 km east of Antalya and close to Belek, Aspendos is home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Built in the 2nd century AD by the architect Zeno, the theatre could originally hold over 10,000 spectators.
Even today, the acoustic design is so precise that a coin dropped on the stage can be heard clearly from the top row of seating. The site remains in active use for music and ballet festivals during the summer season. Combining a trip here with a stop in nearby Belek makes for a straightforward half-day excursion.
4. The Ancient Ruins of Perge
Perge was once a major city in Pamphylia and played an important role in Hellenistic and Roman times. Located just 15 km northeast of Antalya city centre, it features a vast archaeological site that is easy to explore on foot.
Key highlights inside the site include:
- The imposing 2nd-century Roman city gate towers.
- A long, column-lined colonnaded street with an integrated water channel down the centre.
- A well-preserved stadium that held up to 12,000 spectators for chariot races.
- The ancient Roman baths complex, showing original heating channels under the stone floors.
Because there is limited shade across the ruins, plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during July and August.
5. Konyaaltı Beach and the Coastline
Stretching for 7 km along the western side of the city, Konyaaltı Beach consists of smooth pebbles and clear waters backed by the Beydağları Mountains. The beach park promenade is closed to traffic, making it ideal for walking, cycling, or relaxing at a beachside cafe.
Facilities along the beach are well organised. You will find public showers, changing cabins, and sunbed rentals every few hundred metres. It is one of the easiest beach spots to reach directly from the city centre.
Getting Around and Practical Advice
Organising your daily seyahat itinerary across Antalya is straightforward when you plan your transport in advance. While local trams run reliably between Kaleiçi and Konyaaltı, reaching sites like Aspendos or moving comfortably between resorts requires dedicated transport.
When you fly into Antalya Airport (AYT), booking a private airport transfer ensures you travel straight to your hotel or resort without waiting in long taxi queues. A professional driver meets you at arrivals, handles your luggage, and takes you directly to your accommodation in Antalya, Lara, or Belek.
If you are ready to arrange your journey along the Turkish Riviera, check your route and book your fixed-price vehicle on our website booking form before you travel.
