Antalya, Turkey Travel Guide: Things To Do, Where To Eat & Stay (With Video)

Planning a vacation to the beautiful coastal city of Antalya, Turkey? In this travel guide (with video), we feature tips, things to know, best things to do, where to eat & stay in Antalya.

Considered the “Capital of Tourism” in Turkey, Antalya is a pivotal gateway of the Turkish Riviera being the largest city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coastline.

As the starting point of my 2-week Turquoise Coast road trip, I visited Antalya after a 1.5-hour flight from Cappadocia.

I’ll be sharing everything I did, what I learned and tips in Antalya, Turkey in this travel guide, including a video where I take you along the trip.

---

---

Watch: 3 Day Trip in Antalya Turkey

With over 2.6 million people in its metropolitan area, Antalya is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from the Romans, Ottomans, and Greeks evident in its architecture, cuisine and traditions.

In this travel vlog, I spent 3 days in Antalya:

• Explored one of the most popular waterfalls in Antalya
• Walking tour of Old Town Kaleici, visiting mosques, monuments, landmarks and parks
• Trying different Turkish restaurants and food including kofte, kunefeh and midye dolma (Turkish stuffed mussels)
• Enjoyed local culture and nightlife
• Stayed at a 3-star Hotel that has complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea time and hammam!
• PLUS, I shared a scary travel incident that happened during the trip!

---

How To Get To Antalya?

There are multiple ways you can reach Antalya for your holidays:

• Car: Depending on where you’re coming from, you can drive to Antalya with your own car or a rental car. Some timings from popular Turkish destinations: 8.5 hours from Istanbul, 3 hours from Kas, 5 hours from Marmaris and 6.5 hours from Cappadocia.
• Bus: Otagar Antalya is used not only by locals but travellers as well. Located 4-km (2.5 mi) north of the city center, this large and busy bus terminal serves as transport hub for the entire mid-coast Mediterranean region.
• Airplane: Booking a flight is a great way to get here. Antalya Airport/Antalya Havalimanı (AYT) is a major international airport and the only airport in the City of Antalya, located 13 km (8.1 mi) northeast of the city centre. The Antalya Province has two other domestic airports outside Antalya city: Alanya (GZP) & Isparta (ISE).

For my trip, I flew for ~1.5 hours from Kayseri Airport (ASR) in Cappadocia to Antalya Airport (AYT) using SunExpress, a budget-friendly Turkish-German airlines, for USD$38.90.

And then at the Antalya Airport, I did a rental car through Cizgi Rent A Car since I will be driving for the rest of my Turkish Riviera road trip until Izmir, where I fly back to Toronto.

---

Best Time to Visit Antalya

When is the best time to travel? Though Antalya is a year-round destination due to the Mediterranean climate, visiting depends on your travel preference.

• Mild weather with less crowds: Spring (April to mid-June) and Autumn (September to mid-October)
• Hot weather and peak summer months: Summer (June to September). July is the hottest month.
• Wet winter, quiet and less activities operating: November to February. March is the in-between where you may be able to go to the beach during the day, but still need a jacket at night.

When I visited near the end of November, the weather was nice and cool, and I was able to manage with a light jacket, sometimes even without one (note: I’m from Toronto where I’m used to much colder temperatures during this time).

There was a day when it rained really hard, but it was not for the entire day.

During my trip, the spots were still bustling with locals than tourists, which I enjoyed.

Certain attractions and activities were closed due to off-season though like boat operators and some beaches.

---

Is Antalya Safe?

As a metropolitan hub in Turkey, Antalya is generally considered safe for tourists with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere.

You’ll find strong police presence in the city especially at high traffic spots like airports, hotel areas, night clubs, historical sites and shopping malls.

While it’s the 5th lowest crime rate among the 81 Turkish provinces, of course, it’s always important to stay vigilant and practice common safety as you would do anywhere.

Aside from taking the bus from Republic Square to Lower Duden Waterfalls, I walked everywhere else during my time in Antalya after parking my car at the hotel.

I found it pretty safe based on my experience, especially at busy or well-lit areas. I did make sure to avoid quiet alleyways at night.

---

Popular Neighborhoods in Antalya

As the largest city in Turkey’s Mediterranean Region, Antalya is home to different neighborhoods. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Kaleiçi: Also known as Old Town, this is the historic city center of Antalya, known for its narrow winding streets, traditional Ottoman houses, ancient ruins, bazaars and significant landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate.
• Konyaalti Beach: This neighborhood is one of the two main beaches in Antalya, famous for its long sandy beach and beautiful mountain views.
• Lara Beach: Lara is the other main beach neighborhood with luxury villas, five-star hotels, many parks, restaurants, and shopping centers. Lower Duden Waterfalls is near Lara Beach.
• Belek Beach: Known for its stunning coastline, Belek Beach is a popular neighborhood for tourists and also famous for golfers due to its world-class golf courses.

Since I was in Antalya during November, I was pretty much in Kaleici the entire time (and didn’t bother with the beach neighborhoods) and only ventured outside Kaleici once towards Lara Beach to visit the Lower Duden Waterfalls.

---

Attractions & Things To Do

Sitting on Anatolia’s southwest coast with a backdrop of the Taurus Mountains, this seaside city boasts a scenic old quarter, an impressive harbor, ancient ruins, and breathtaking beaches with clear turquoise waters.

Here are some of the best attractions and things to do in Antalya. You can also book activities and tours here.

Duden Park & Lower Waterfalls

Düden Waterfalls are a group of man-made waterfalls formed by the recycle station water, located 12-km northeast of Antalya.

The starting point is the Upper Duden Waterfalls and it ends where the waters drop off a rocky cliff directly into the Mediterranean Sea called Lower Düden Falls.

I went to the Lower Duden Waterfalls located in Duden Park near Lara Beach, and it was easy to get to by bus from Mai Inci Hotel. Apparently, people can also zipline through the Duden Stream.

This area is a very nice walk with restaurants both at the park and along the Duden Stream.

I loved watching the strong flow of the falls drop into the sea with a backdrop of the coast. Very relaxing!

Address: Çağlayan, Lara Cd. No:457, 07230 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye

Republic Square

A famous landmark in Antalya, Republic Square (Cumhuriyet Meydanı) is the city’s main square, where locals and tourists alike gather and is a major bus stop.

Here, you’ll also find the monument of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey’s founding father.

This vibrant and bustling square is a great meeting place and sunset spot, overlooking the marina and Old Town.

Address: Deniz, Konyaaltı Cd., 07050 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey

Old Town Kaleici Tour

Old Town Kaleici is a massive walled city with ancient structures and narrow cobbled streets of historic Ottoman era houses. From the Republic Square, I walked all over this historic core of Antalya for the rest of my trip:

• Antalya Marina: Stroll along Antalya Marina’s crescent-shaped harbor for serene views, relaxation, and a chance to unwind by the sea.
• Mermerli Beach: Right by the marina, relax on this popular beach’s sun-kissed sands for a leisurely afternoon by the warm Mediterranean sea.
• Long Bazaar Street: Explore this bustling shopping paradise filled with the scent of spices, artisan crafts and carpets, and traditional goods. You’ll also find modern things like jewelries, bags and more.
• Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque: Get insights into the Antalya’s rich Islamic heritage at one of the most important Ottoman mosques in the city.
• Antalya Clock Tower: This historic landmark symbolizes the city’s past and present with a unique square shape, and a clock face on each side.
• Attalos II Monument: Pay homage to Antalya’s ancient roots at this historic monument, a tribute to Antalya’s founder, King Attalos II, with the famous pedestrian street Kazım Özalp Caddesi behind it.
• Antalya Old Bazaar: Explore this marketplace brimming with shops selling a variety of local and international goods, from souvenirs and textiles to carpets and jewelry. Remember, bargaining is expected in Turkey. The main bazaar, open even on holidays, offers a Turkish experience with the tradition of serving apple tea to visitors. It reminded me of Divisoria in Manila, Philippines, minus the apple tea.
• Yivliminare Mosque: Admire one of the oldest examples of multi-dome construction in Antalya and the famous symbol of the city’s skyline with its unique fluted minaret.
• Dervish Lodge Museum (Antalya Mevlevihane Museum): The Yivli Minaret complex houses a Mevlevi Dervishes lodge, a museum showcasing Mevlevi culture and history, and two domed tombs.
• Hadrian’s Gate: Marvel at this ancient Roman triumphal arch built in 130 AD with three arched gates, a timeless gateway.
• Hidirlik Tower (Hıdırlık Kulesi): This round stone tower on Karaalioglu Park’s north side is a historic Roman monument originally built in a square shape during the second century CE. As one of Antalya’s oldest surviving structures, it offers visitors a magnificent view of the city for free.
• Karaalioglu Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this lush park and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Aside from the Hidirlik Tower, sculptures are scattered throughout the park that makes for amazing selfie and photo opportunities.

---

Restaurants, Places To Eat & Drink

As a large metropolitan city, Antalya’s food scene is sprawling with Turkish food and seafood restaurants. Here are some of the best restaurants and places to eat & drink in Antalya.

Citir Balik

Citir Balik is a fast casual spot for quick fish sandwiches (Balik Ekmek) that’s affordable and made fresh to order.

I went here after my 2nd day of exploring Old Town Kaleici, which ended at Karaalioglu Park.

Expect a line-up in this local hot spot, but it moves quick!

You order at the cashier, and they’ll call your number. While the restaurant is open seating only, there are covered and non-covered areas.

After getting your order, check out the complimentary buffet salad bar where you can add as many toppings you want on your sandwich or have them on the side as a salad.

I had the mezgit/whiting fish sandwich (95TL), and it was absolutely delicious with perfectly fried fish and nice soft bread.

Citir Balik redeemed Turkish fish sandwiches for me after getting disappointed by the popular balik ekmek spot in Istanbul.

Address: Kılınçarslan, Atatürk Cd. No:79, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye

Emsal Balik

Emsal Balik is a small seafood restaurant run by a lovely husband and wife team.

Here, you can enjoy seafood meals at affordable prices that feels like going to a Turkish grandmother’s home.

I went here on my first day of exploring Old Town Kaleici, which ended at pedestrian street Kazım Özalp Caddesi.

Instead of dining touristy restaurants on the pedestrian street, visit this local gem located in an intersecting street.

I had the delicious Uskumru/Mackerel Meal (200TL), which I recommend, and it came with a big spread of full deboned mackerel, rice, salad, bread, beans, red pepper relish and pickles.

Address: Balbey, 458. Sk., 07040 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye

Mari̇bo Çorba & Kebap & Pide

Mari̇bo Çorba & Kebap & Pide is a local Turkish restaurant with an extensive menu of traditional Turkish food from soups and pides to doner and kebabs.

I came here after visiting Lower Duden Waterfalls as it was walking distance. Expect delicious food, good portions and reasonably priced!

I highly recommend the Adana Durum (80TL) where you get a whole flavourful adana kebab made fresh on a wrap.

The crispy, sweet and cheesy kunefeh (65TL) was tasty as well though a bit oily.

Address: Çağlayan, Veysel Saraç Apt, Barınaklar Blv. 89/A, 07230 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye

Nadir Doner Kofte

Nadir Doner Kofte is a small no-frills family-owned Turkish restaurant with only 4 tables. I came here as I was looking for lunch near my hotel, and it did not disappoint.

I had the Kofte Porsiyon (120TL) to try Turkish meatball, and it was nicely grilled and delicious though flavour is more subtle than what I would’ve liked.

The plate comes with lavash bread, rice, pickles and chili peppers.

Address: Kışla, Şht. Binbaşı Cengiz Toytunç Cd. no:78/d, 07010 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye

Onerim Doner

Located near Republic Square, Onerim Doner is one of the best restaurants in Antalya for tuvuk durum (chicken rolls).

You order at the cashier, and you get a number and there are two floors for seating. The staff will find you with your order.

As a local favorite, expect delicious doner, affordable price and massive portion.

I tried their popular Ozel Soslu Tuvuk Durum Doner (100TL for 150grams) which are chicken rolls with special sauce.

Very tasty. Chicken was juicy, and that sauce was amazing!

While I normally prefer beef/meat doner over chicken, this is one chicken doner I would gladly keep having.

Address: Elmalı, Şht. Binbaşı Cengiz Toytunç Cd. 63a, 07040 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye

---

Where To Stay in Antalya

Mai Inci Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Antalya conveniently located near Republic Square, Mai Inci Hotel has the blend of modern amenities, traditional Turkish hospitality and a cozy ambiance offering a tranquil courtyard and spa.

I stayed at their Economy Single Room, which is a great option for solo travellers on a budget and includes private bathroom, high-speed internet, a mini fridge and TV with nearly 1000 satellite channels.

I like the extra touches in the room of having buttons to indicate if you want housekeeping or DND.

Note: Depending on your preference, this specific room is at the basement and there are no windows. AC is centralized so you can’t adjust temperature.

What I loved about this 3-star boutique hotel:

• The most important: The staff are so nice and friendly, and service here goes above and beyond! I had a flat tire on my rental car (I shared in the video), and they helped fix it for me without extra costs because they just wanted to make sure I will be safe with the car and that I enjoy my vacation in Antalya without worrying about the incident
• Extensive complimentary breakfast buffet spread with different bread, mezes, cheese, charcuterie, fries, egg, pastry, desserts
• Complimentary bottled water anytime (just ask at front desk)
• Complimentary hammam (first time seeing a hotel offer this) and sauna. Other spa services are extra charge
• Tea Time from 2-4:30pm where you can get complimentary tea and coffee at the restaurant
• Free self-parking and valet parking

Website / Address: Kışla, 53. Sk. No : 10, 07040 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye
Check reviews, prices and availability: Booking.com or Agoda

Check other hotels and places to stay in Antalya here

---

How To Spend 3 Days in Antalya Travel Itinerary

As a starting point of the Turkish Riviera road trip like mine, 3 days is definitely a great way to enjoy Antalya, but you’ll want to stay longer to explore all that it has to offer.

Here’s a quick breakdown on how I spent my 3 days in Antalya, Turkey:

• Day 1
  • Mai Inci Hotel – arrive, check-in and afternoon tea/coffee time
  • Republic Square
  • Onerim Doner – dinner
• Day 2
  • Mai Inci Hotel – breakfast
  • Duden Waterfalls
  • Mari̇bo Çorba & Kebap & Pide – lunch
  • Republic Square
  • Antalya Marina
  • Mermerli Beach
  • Long Bazaar Street
  • Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque
  • Antalya Clock Tower
  • Attalos II Monument
  • Antalya Old Bazaar
  • Emsal Balik – dinner
• Day 3
  • Mai Inci Hotel – breakfast
  • Hammam and Sauna – free at hotel
  • Nadir Doner Kofte – lunch
  • Yivliminare Mosque
  • Dervish Lodge Museum
  • Hadrian’s Gate
  • Hidirlik Tower
  • Karaalioglu Park
  • Citir Balik – dinner

After Antalya, I drove 3 hours to Kas for my next stop.

---

As a gateway to Turkish Riviera, Antalya is one of the best beach cities to travel in Turkey, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge.

I hope this guide and itinerary gave you a comprehensive overview of Antalya’s rich tapestry of history, culture, cuisine, and nature ensuring that your 3-day trip is as memorable as mine. As always, happy travels and eat well!