Antalya, nestled along Turkey’s breathtaking Turquoise Coast, is a destination that beautifully blends ancient history, natural wonders, and modern charm. With its Roman ruins, pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife scene, and mountain backdrops, Antalya is a must-visit spot for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or sun-seeker, this Mediterranean gem has something for everyone.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to what to visit in Antalya, from ancient wonders to modern marvels.
1. Hadrian’s Gate: A Gateway to the Past
Start your journey through Antalya’s rich history at Hadrian’s Gate, a beautifully preserved Roman triumphal arch built in honor of Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 130 AD. Located at the entrance of the old town (Kaleiçi), this monumental gate offers a glimpse into the city’s Roman past. The intricate carvings and columns reflect the architectural brilliance of the era.
Tip: Visit at sunset to see the gate bathed in golden light, and stroll into Kaleiçi for charming narrow alleys, boutique hotels, and cafes.
2. Kaleiçi and Antalya Marina
After passing through Hadrian’s Gate, explore Kaleiçi, the old quarter of Antalya. The cobblestone streets are lined with Ottoman-era houses, quaint shops, and boutique accommodations. It’s the perfect area to stay if you want charm and walkability.
Nearby is the Antalya Marina, a picturesque harbor filled with yachts, traditional boats, and seaside restaurants. Enjoy a relaxing meal by the water or take a boat trip along the coast.
3. Hıdırlık Tower: Ancient Watchtower with a View
Just a short walk from the marina lies Hıdırlık Tower, a Roman-era tower dating back to the 2nd century. It’s believed to have been used as a lighthouse or defensive fortification. The real highlight, however, is the panoramic view over the Mediterranean Sea and Antalya’s coastline.
4. Düden Waterfalls: Nature in the Heart of the City
Antalya isn’t just about history — it’s also a haven for nature lovers. The Düden Waterfalls are a top attraction, offering both Upper and Lower Düden Waterfalls experiences.
- Upper Düden Waterfalls are located in a lush park, where you can walk behind the cascading water — a perfect photo spot.
- Lower Düden Waterfalls dramatically plunge into the sea from a 40-meter cliff. You can view them from land or take a boat for an unforgettable perspective.
5. Konyaaltı Beach: Relax with a Mountain View
If you’re looking for a beach with a stunning backdrop, Konyaaltı Beach is the place to go. With its long stretch of pebbled shore and crystal-clear waters, this beach offers spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains. It’s also close to the city center, with plenty of cafes and water sports activities available.
6. Lara Beach: Luxury and Soft Sand
On the eastern side of the city lies Lara Beach, known for its fine sand and upscale boutique hotels and resorts. It’s also famous for its “Sandland” — a yearly sand sculpture festival that features impressive, larger-than-life creations.
This beach is more family-friendly and ideal for those seeking a resort-style vacation.
7. Aspendos Theatre: A Roman Masterpiece
A short drive from Antalya takes you to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world — the Aspendos Theatre. Built in the 2nd century AD, it could seat up to 15,000 spectators and is still used today for performances and festivals.
The acoustics are so perfect that even a whisper on stage can be heard at the top row. Combine your visit with nearby ruins and Roman baths for a full-day excursion.
8. Tünektepe Hill: Aerial Views and Adventure
For a bird’s-eye view of the city and the coastline, take the cable car to Tünektepe Hill. At the top, you’ll find a rotating restaurant, a viewing platform, and plenty of photo ops.
It’s a relaxing way to escape the city bustle and enjoy Antalya from above.
9. Mount Tahtalı: Sky to Sea Adventure
Located about an hour from Antalya, Mount Tahtalı (also called Olympos) offers one of the most spectacular experiences on the coast. Take the “Olympos Teleferik” cable car to the summit at 2,365 meters.
In winter, you can ski — and in summer, you can paraglide all the way to the sea. The combination of snow and beach in one day is a rare treat!
10. Antalya Aquarium: A Family-Friendly Attraction
Perfect for a rainy day or family outing, the Antalya Aquarium features one of the world’s longest tunnel aquariums — 131 meters long. Explore themed zones, watch shark feedings, and visit the Snow World area where you can play in real snow.
11. Antalya’s Nightlife Scene
When the sun goes down, Antalya lights up. From beach bars and clubs on Konyaaltı Beach to jazz lounges and rooftop restaurants in Kaleiçi, the city offers a lively and diverse nightlife scene.
For a more local experience, check out the traditional meyhanes (Turkish taverns) for good food and live music.
FAQs About Visiting Antalya
The best time to visit is between April and October. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather without the peak-season crowds, while summer is perfect for beach lovers.
Absolutely! From Hadrian’s Gate and Aspendos Theatre to ancient Roman baths and Hıdırlık Tower, Antalya offers a rich tapestry of ancient civilizations.
Yes! The Düden Waterfalls, especially the Lower Düden, are unique because they plunge straight into the sea — a rare and photogenic natural wonder.
Konyaaltı is closer to the city, with mountain views and a lively promenade.
Lara Beach is more upscale, with soft sand and luxury resorts.
Yes, it’s a popular day trip. The drive takes about 1–1.5 hours, and the cable car ride to the summit offers breathtaking views.
Definitely, especially if you’re traveling with kids or on a rainy day. The aquarium is modern, well-designed, and offers a fun educational experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn by its ancient history, majestic mountains, or sun-soaked beaches, Antalya is a destination that truly offers it all. From walking through Roman gates to swimming under waterfalls, relaxing in boutique hotels, or dancing the night away by the marina, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences.
So if you’re wondering “Antalya, what to visit?” — the answer is: as much as possible.