Best Things to Do In Antalya
Discover an enchanting mix of ancient wonders and modern delights in the Mediterranean gem of Antalya.
Antalya: Yivliminare Mosque
What is it?
A historical mosque with a distinctive fluted minaret piercing the skyline of Antalya.
Why you should go?
The Yivliminare Mosque, also known as Ulu Cami, is an iconic symbol of Antalya, with its 13th-century minaret. Besides being an important place of worship, it is a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture that travelers must see. The mosque itself offers a tranquil sanctuary amidst the bustling city, and the adjoining Antalya Ethnographic Museum provides insights into the region's culture, making a visit here among the enlightening things to do in Antalya.
Antalya: Karaalioğlu Park
What is it?
A lush, expansive park offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape from city life.
Why you should go?
Positioned along the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Karaalioğlu Park is a serene retreat famed for its floral displays and shaded walking paths. The park serves as a vantage point for panoramic views of Antalya's coast and the Taurus Mountains. Whether looking to enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or capture stunning photographs, Karaalioğlu Park stands out as a natural gem among the fun things to do in Antalya.
Antalya: Suna & İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum
What is it?
A cultural museum set in a restored Antalyan house, offering insight into local history.
Why you should go?
The Suna & İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum allows visitors to explore the rich historic fabric of Antalya through its exhibition of folkloric artifacts and an authentic Ottoman house. The museum provides a window to the past, showcasing traditional Turkish life. Ideal for culture enthusiasts, this attraction is a portal to understanding the local heritage and encapsulates the spirit of what to do in Antalya for an enriching experience.
Antalya: Tünek Tepe Cable Car
What is it?
An aerial tramway providing a scenic ride to the summit of Tünek Tepe hill.
Why you should go?
Taking the Tünek Tepe Cable Car is a must-do for unparalleled views of Antalya and the surrounding region. Visitors will find themselves ascending above the city, watching the landscape unfold below. At the hill’s summit, cafes and restaurants offer the perfect spot to relax while enjoying the panoramic vistas. Counted among the thrilling Antalya activities, it's an unforgettable journey that promises both adventure and awe-inspiring scenery.
Antalya: The Land of Legends Theme Park
What is it?
A vibrant entertainment complex that combines a theme park, water park, and hotel.
Why you should go?
The Land of Legends Theme Park is a feast for the senses with its array of thrilling rides, shows, and attractions. Designed for visitors of all ages, this world-class facility offers everything from roller coasters and wave pools to shopping and dining experiences. It's a fantastical realm where the excitement never ends, making it among the top Antalya excursions for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Antalya: Hadrian’s Gate
What is it?
An exquisitely preserved Roman monument gracing Antalya's historic district.
Why you should go?
Hadrian's Gate is a triumphal arch that was built to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian’s visit. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to Antalya's storied past and offers a gateway through the city's rich history. Walking through its towering arches, visitors can literally step back in time, surrounded by intricate carvings and ancient stone. The majesty of this structure tops the list of fun things to do in Antalya, providing an unrivaled glimpse into the past amidst the bustle of modern city life.
Antalya: Konyaaltı Beach
What is it?
A sweeping coastal stretch and one of Antalya’s most beloved pebble beaches.
Why you should go?
With its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning view of the Taurus Mountains, Konyaaltı Beach is a paradise for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts. It’s not only a place to unwind but also offers a variety of Antalya activities, from leisurely sunbathing and beach sports to waterfront cafes and parks. Frequented by both locals and tourists, the beach's vibrant atmosphere captures the essence of what to do in Antalya for a refreshing seaside experience.
Antalya: Aspendos Theatre
What is it?
A remarkably well-preserved ancient theatre, boasting incredible acoustic design.
Why you should go?
Aspendos Theatre is a stunning representation of Roman theatre architecture, known as one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the world. This grand structure offers visitors the chance to experience the splendor of ancient spectacles amidst an evocative setting. With its incredible acoustics, the theatre continues to host performances, making it a living monument among places to visit in Antalya where history continues to resonate vibrantly.
Antalya: Olympos Ancient City and Beach
What is it?
An archaic city set in a picturesque valley along a beautiful stretch of sandy beach.
Why you should go?
Nestled between lush mountains and the azure sea, the ruins of Olympos Ancient City are a sanctuary frozen in time, seducing both historians and beach lovers. This unique attraction combines things to see in Antalya from an adventurer's perspective. Apart from the ancient city’s compelling ruins and history, the adjacent Olympos Beach provides a tranquil escape, perfect for basking in the Mediterranean sun or taking a dip in its warm, inviting waters.
Antalya: Antalya Aquarium
What is it?
One of the largest aquarium complexes in the world, featuring a myriad of marine life.
Why you should go?
The Antalya Aquarium offers an underwater voyage unlike any other. Its expansive tunnels and tanks display countless species, from the smallest sea creatures to the mightiest sharks. This family-friendly excursion provides both entertainment and education. The Aquarium isn’t just about observing; it's an interactive journey filled with thematic zones, 3D cinemas, and even the chance to dive with sharks, thereby ensuring its place among the most fun things to do in Antalya.
TOP-5 tours in Antalya for first-time visitors
- Explore the Old Town Kaleiçi tour, where the historical architecture of Antalya activities meets vibrant shopping and dining scenes, perfect for those keen on what to see in Antalya.
- Delve into Antalya's rich past with the Antalya Museum tour that showcases artifacts from the region's diverse history, definitely a highlight for places to visit in Antalya.
- Savour the serenity of Düden Waterfalls tour, offering a scenic excursion among the things to do in Antalya, blending natural sights with opportunities for memorable photographs.
- Admire the Roman engineering on the Perge Ancient City tour, highlighting the best Antalya tours for enthusiasts craving a touch of Antalya's archaeological splendor.
- Experience the beaches and ruins of the Side tour, a well-rounded journey among the best things to do in Antalya, where sun-worship and cultural exploration go hand in hand.
Fun things to do in Antalya with kids
Exploring Antalya with kids opens up a world of excitement with activities and attractions that cater to the curiosity and energy of young travelers. The Land of Legends Theme Park is a fantastical adventure land that merges a waterpark, theme park, and a shopping avenue, offering kids a magical experience with thrilling rides, aquatic fun, and captivating shows. Take learning outside the classroom at the Antalya Aquarium, where the family can embark on an underwater journey among some of the ocean's most exotic inhabitants and walk through one of the world's largest tunnel aquariums. A day at Konyaaltı Beach provides a more relaxed yet equally delightful experience with its vast pebble shores and clear waters, perfect for building sandcastles, paddling, or just soaking up the sun. These attractions are sure to be highlighted in the best Antalya tours for families seeking a blend of amusement and relaxation.
Things to do in Antalya with family
Antalya is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that promise joy and discovery for all ages. First on the list of things to do in Antalya with family is a day at the Antalya Aquarium, where vibrantly colored fish and awe-inspiring sea creatures offer an educational and entertaining outing. Watch your children's faces light up in wonder as they traverse the grand tunnel aquarium against a backdrop of the ocean's marvels. Next, the sandy shores and gentle waves of Lara Beach provide the perfect setting for a family beach day. Here, kids can frolic in the sea, while parents relax under the Mediterranean sun. For an immersive historical experience, the ruins of the ancient city of Perge make an excellent Antalya excursion. The audio tours provide a dynamic narrative, turning the grand, old Roman streets into a live-action storyboard that both enlightens and entertains the entire family.
Free things to do in Antalya
When visiting Antalya, there are plenty of experiences that can be enjoyed without spending a lira. Stroll through the historic streets of Kaleiçi, the Old Town, an attraction brimming with charm where you can absorb the ancient atmosphere and picturesque views for free. This labyrinth of lanes offers a peek into Antalya's rich past with well-preserved Ottoman mansions and a chance to take in the local culture. Another must-visit is Düden Waterfalls, an exquisite natural wonder where the power and beauty of cascading falls can be admired at no cost. Visitors can explore the park and take memorable photos against the stunning backdrop. Lastly, the Antalya's public beaches, like Konyaaltı and Lara, are popular Antalya activities where families can spend a day by the sea, sunbathing, swimming, and playing on the shore without a fee, revealing the enjoyable what to do in Antalya without straining your wallet.
Cheap things to do in Antalya
Budget-conscious travelers will delight in Antalya's array of affordable attractions. For a small fee, the Antalya Museum awaits history buffs, showcasing an expansive collection of artifacts that narrate the region's rich past and cultural tapestry. It's a cost-effective way to spend an enlightening afternoon. If the allure of nature calls, the journey up to Tünek Tepe brings forth panoramic views of the city and the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. The cable car ride to the hilltop is an inexpensive Antalya activity that promises breathtaking scenery. For a modest sum, immerse in local life at Atatürk Park, where families can enjoy picnics and children can play in verdant surroundings, offering respite without the need for hefty spending. These top 3 attractions prove that finding cheap things to do in Antalya doesn't mean compromising on the quality of the experience.
Things to do in Antalya for couples
Romance abounds in Antalya, making it a delightful destination for couples. A sunset stroll along Mermerli Beach offers a serene setting as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange – a picturesque and free experience for couples in love. For a taste of adventure merged with history, exploring the cobbled streets and ancient ruins of the Old Town Kaleiçi sets the stage for hand-in-hand exploration and quaint cafe dining, all enveloped in the charming atmosphere of bygone eras. To top off the romantic escapade, consider the panoramic Karaalioğlu Park, where couples can bask in commanding views of the Mediterranean, framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Taurus Mountains, offering an idyllic spot for a tranquil picnic or simply to revel in each other's company within nature's embrace.
Things to do in Antalya at night
Antalya comes alive at night with a vibrant array of activities that cater to night owls and entertainment-seekers. The bustling lanes of Kaleiçi transform into a nightlife hub as the sun sets, with a plethora of bars, restaurants, and cafes offering the perfect milieu for socializing and enjoying the local cuisine and live music—a top choice when considering what to do in Antalya at night. For those who enjoy cultural experiences, the Aspendos Amphitheatre often hosts evening concerts and performances, where one can bask under the stars surrounded by historical grandeur. It's a unique blend of Antalya activities that harmoniously intertwines culture and leisure. Lastly, the Antalya Marina offers a romantic and relaxing evening with its luxury yachts and stunning waterside views, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a moonlit dinner by the sea, ensuring couples and friends can savor the nocturnal charm of Antalya.