Antalya is one of the oldest yet most modern cities in Turkey. It is located in the southwestern region and is bordered by the Tauras Mountains. Antalya is famous as a Turkish resort city since it is home to several stunning beaches flanked by large and luxurious Las Vegas style resorts. It is as popular with couples looking for a romantic getaway as it is with families looking for an unforgettable trip.
1. Hadrian’s Gate
Upraised in the honor of Roman Emperor Hadrian, this three-arched marble gateway is decorated with some rich intricate carvings. The sculptural decoration takes you through a journey of the old worlds of the Hellenistic and Romans. One of the most dramatic Antalya tourist attractions, this gate was once used as the main entrance to the Kaleici town.
Key Attractions: Marble gateway; intricate carvings and sculptures; and a perfect place to look into the old city.
Entry Fee: None
Location: Barbaros, 07100 Antalya and Turkey
2. Old Town (Kaleici)
Old town, known as Kaleici, is a maze-like neighborhood perfect to live and breathe the simple antiquated ambience. A plethora of tourist attractions in Antalya are encompassed in this beautiful part of city. A peopled-place before, it is now adorned with lavish boutique hotels, engaging art galleries, tiny souvenir shops and exotic restaurants.
Key Attractions: Some of the best places to visit in Antalya are in this old town, Kaleici. Visit Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque, Hesapcı Sokak, Kesik Minare, fortress gate at Kale Kapisi, etc.
Location: Ataturk Caddesi
Don’t miss: The stunning view of Mediterranean from Old Harbor.
3. Antalya Museum
The Antalya Museum has an excellent all-embracing collection which displays every aspect of the rich Turkish heritage. This is one of the places to visit in Antalya which you simply cannot miss. Visit Antalya Museum for the sake of its upscality and universal insights into the civilization. Some of the best exhibits from excavation sites all across the Turkish coasts are showcased here.
Key Attractions: Seleukeia’s mosaics, Aspendos’ silver display, and Perge’s divinity statues
Timings: 9 am to 6.30 pm
Entry Fee: TRL 20
Location: Konyaaltı Caddesi
4. Yivli Minare
The most characteristic landmark of Antalya, Yivli Minare is a 13th century mosque which is still in use. Built by the Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, this Antalya tourist attraction is a brilliant example of Seljuk architecture. The jutted out gallery around the top of this octagonal fluted shaft offers some great panoramic views of the town.
Key Attractions: A 6-domed and 129 ft high, functional 13th Century mosque; stunning landscape; and Seljuk architecture.
Entry Fee: None
Location: Selcuk Mh., 7100 Muratpasa/Antalya, Turkey
5. Roman Fortress (Hıdırlık Kalesi)
The prime purpose of this 14 m high cylindrical tower was to watch over the port of Old Harbor in 2nd century. Nowadays, it serves almost the same purpose. However, instead of watching over Old Harbor, you can watch the fantastic sunset and ethereal far-reaching landscapes of the city. This is a favorite among people who like to have a picnic experience at one of the Antalya tourist attractions.
Key Attractions: Surreal sunset in the backdrop of panoramic landscapes; and Karaalioglu Park which surrounds the fortress is a must visit for serenity lovers.
Entry Fee: None
Location: Karaalioglu Park, Kaleici
6. Aspendos
Aspendos has a definite place on the list of places to visit in Antalya, Turkey. It is claimed to be the best preserved colossal Roman archeological site in the world. This ancient town pads the famous Roman theatre which is amongst the top Antalya tourist attractions. Built in 2nd century, Aspendos is capable of mesmerizing you with its bewitching ruins. It’s a perfect site for some sight-seeing and lazy strolling with your companions.
Key Attractions: Bewitching ruins of the city; a Roman theater with the capacity of 15,000 spectators; and a peek into the wonders of 2nd century.
Don’t miss: The occasional drama shows and ballet events in Aspendos theatre.
Timings: You can become a part of the afternoon tourist groups who visit this site. Or you can completely avoid the afternoons to enjoy this majestic town in your own company.
How to reach: There are many options – you can rent a car, travel by bus or become a part of pre-designed tours.
Location: 47 km east of Antalya
7. Perge
Perge is amongst the best places to visit in Antalya. It has a touch of both Greek and Roman architecture. The beauty of this town lies in its stadium debris, wrecked temples and half destroyed arcade. Even though it is a consequential tourist site, it attracts less visitors due to being not well-preserved as compared to other attractions. However, the sense of calm and intrigue that you will feel while you explore the streets and temples is bound to leave you content.
Key Attractions: Roman baths, Hellenistic Gate, Acropolis, half-erected temples, arcade ruins, and rubble-filled stadium.
Timings: Avoid the afternoons as it may be too hot for you.
How to reach: By Dolmus – the mini bus, by bus or you can rent a car.
Location: 17 km east of Antalya
8. Karain Cave (Karain Magarası)
The Karain Cave is one of the prehistoric places to see in Antalya. These caves are said to be more than 25,000 years old. Ruins from Lower and Middle Palaeolithic Eras have been excavated from here. It includes bones, teeth, weapons etc. Some of the paths in the cave are narrow but all is worth for a peek into the glory of primeval era.
Key Attractions: A small comprehensive museum which displays exhibits from excavation.
Timings: Afternoon tours and evening tours
How to reach: Tours are organized for Karain cave excursion. You can contact you accommodations to get into one.
Location: 27 km northwest of Antalya
9. Olympos and the Chimera
The twin villages of Olympos and Cirali have a special place in the list of places to visit in Antalya. The encompassing coastline of these villages is surrounded by the ruins of ancient city of Olympos. While Olympos has a reputation of being a party-goers heaven, Çıralı is more of an easy-going relaxing vacation. A perfect combination of beaches and historic ruins has been achieved by this glorious attraction.
Key Attractions: Natural flames of Chimera that flicker out of the rock cliff. It is the one place to see in Antalya that you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
How to reach: Buses and private taxis run from Antalya
Location: 80 km southwest from Antalya
10. Damlatas Magarasi
One of the underrated places to visit in Antalya is Damlatas Caves. It is formed mainly of stalactites and stalagmites, about 15,000 years ago. Interesting patterns of rocks in various colors, protruding from every surface of these caves make for an adventurous expedition.
Key Attractions: These caves are also known as ‘Asthma Cure’ caves. According to beliefs, these caves have the capability to cure respiratory complaints and asthma. And thus, Asthma patients come and stay here for 21 days with 4 hours exposure each day. The cave is restricted from 6 am to 10 am (local time) for the patients.
How to reach: Rent a car or travel by bus.
Location: 127 km west of Antalya
