The first thing to know about Antalya in Turkey, is that it hosts roughly 15 million tourists annually. This attractive destination boasts a fabulous climate, excellent shopping experiences, stunning views, and a fascinating past. Antalya is on the Mediterranean coast of Southeast Turkey, at the foot of the Taurus mountains, and in an area known as the Turkish Riviera.
Turkey's most prominent international sea resort also has a world-class marina. The name also refers to the larger Province, which stretches from Alanya and Gazipasa to the far west and borders the Mugla province. To put in perspective how sizeable this sunny region is, driving from Alanya to Kalkan takes about five hours. The entire region, including Kalkan, Kas, Side, and Kemer, is popular with foreigners and Turks.
About Antalya in Turkey
Transport and Getting There
Antalya Airport is an award-winning air travel hub that hosts international flights worldwide during summer and winter. It serves the central city, and people use it to access the surrounding resorts like Kemer, Belek, and Side. For people arriving from other parts of Turkey, the Antalya bus station is in the centre, and they catch connecting buses to different places. Getting there is also easy by road because Antalya sits on the D400 highway from the east to the west of Turkey. Otherwise, if arriving by sea, there are marinas in major towns and the centre. However, if you are coming from another country, enter one that is officially registered as an entry point.
Weather and the Mediterranean Climate
Antalya boasts over 300 sunny days a year. Residents enjoy long, hot summers and mild, sometimes rainy, winters. The hottest and busiest months of July and August reach up to 40 degrees. The most incredible months, January and February, often feature highs of around 16*C during the day and an average night-time temperature of 6*C. The loveliest time is spring and autumn, when cooler temperatures mean enjoying an evening stroll in a T-shirt.
Antalya City Centre - The Main Hub
The beating heart of the whole region is the principal centre, which has many claims to fame. As the best shopping centre, lively nightlife, and cuisine spot on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, expect the best from this Turkish city. Perfectly combining old Turkish culture with modern living, this modern city boasts five-star hotels, boutique hotels, and a vibrant culture. During the winter, life is still bustling as tourists arrive from other places in Turkey and the world thanks to pleasant temperatures. So, what are the main landmarks to know about?
Kaleici Old Town: Marked by the 2nd century Hadrian's gate, Kaleici Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, displays architectural heritage. Sitting in the city, it portrays the Byzantine and Ottoman culture of old historical sites and quaint shops on narrow roads. The Yivli Minaret mosque, dating from the 13th century and built with turquoise tiles, earns much admiration for the fluted minaret, as does the ancient monument of Hadrian's gate, ancient city walls, and Hıdırlık ancient tower.
Antalya Aquarium: This beautiful setting with a wide range of marine wildlife is excellent for the whole family. Spend three to five hours touring the displays, and let the kids learn while having fun. As the world's biggest tunnel aquarium, you can see sand sharks and much more. The Aquarium is just 70 metres from Konyaalti Beach so that you can combine the two.
Antalya Archaeological Museum: This excellent must-see museum is one of Turkey's largest in Konyaalti. Reflecting ancient times and historical lessons about the region, some historians class the museum as one of the best in Turkey.
Konyaalti: Visit the perfect sandy beaches at Konyaalti. Water sports, green picnic places, and a waterpark make Konyaalti a prime destination for house hunters. Given the location, the demand for property is high, but if you manage to buy one, expect to wake up to marvellous sea views. To easily reach it from Kaleici, an old town, catch the nostalgic tram.
Lara Beach: Sitting on the other side of Antalya's city, Lara, home to the famous Titanic Lara Beach Hotel, earns a nickname as the Las Vegas of Turkey, thanks to themed hotels. An annual sand festival brings in people from near and far. Both Lara and Konyaalti have esteemed reputations as the best beaches in Turkey.
Ancient Cities and Archaeological Sites
If history is your passion, then you have many options for places to go. Antalya was originally ancient Pamphylia, then Attaleai by the 1st century BC, King Attalos II. Its vast history spans thousands of years, with the Seljuks, Romans, Ottomans, and Byzantines playing their part.
The rich history makes for unforgettable experiences, especially when you visit Aspendos, known for the world’s best-preserved Roman theatre. The blend of history is evident in Side Town, founded in the 7th century BCE and built around the old amphitheatre and cobbled streets, with the landmark Byzantine Basilica and Apollo temple on the coast. Perge is just a short distance from Antalya city for more well-preserved ruins.
This stretch of coastline fronting the Mediterranean Sea is also the starting point for the Lycian Way, a 500-kilometre trekking route leading to the Fethiye region. Participants trek set paths to archaeological sites and ancient ruins dating from the Lycian civilisation, which once ruled these lands.
More Blue Flag Beaches and Water Sports
For more pristine beaches, expect the best. Many hotels have private beach access, with attending staff. If the above two Lara and Konyaalti areas are too far for you, Mermerli Beach near the old harbour is a well-kept secret. Heading further afield, Kaputas Golden Sandy Beach is world-renowned for its backing view of a canyon. Although pebbly beaches, Cirali and Olympos are great for a beach day.
Beautiful Waterfalls and Azure Waters
The Duden Waterfalls consist of two parts: the upper and lower. The Lower Düden Waterfall dramatically plunges directly into the Mediterranean Sea. Meanwhile, Manvagat waterfall is well-known for its vast flow and tea gardens, providing shade on summer afternoons. In Sapadere Canyon of Alanya, steep canyon walls and lush greenery surround another waterfall. Kursunlu Waterfall is around 18 meters high, surrounded by a beautiful natural park with walking paths and picnic areas. The waterfall flow varies significantly depending on the season. Spring usually sees waterfalls at their fullest due to melting snow, while summer sees lower water levels.
Golfing in Belek
Welcome to Turkey's golfing capital, which has hosted world championship rounds and has top players like Tiger Woods. Belek's well-kept town centre is fast becoming home to more foreign expats looking to set up home in Turkey. With over 17 championship-quality golf courses, some designed by former pro golfers like Colin Montgomerie and Nick Faldo, any golf enthusiast will find themselves in paradise. Belek also has reasonable proximity to tourist sites.
Turquoise Coast and Crystal-Clear Waters
Part of the rich culture is sailing the Turquoise Coast, known as the Turkish Riviera. Including hidden bays and coves, a popular pastime for many tourist crowds is to sail from picturesque Fethiye to Olympos on a shared gulet cabin blue cruise. Those searching for a cosmopolitan atmosphere rather than traditional ones often choose modern sailing yachts. Passengers enjoy sunbathing, exploration, and other water activities like scuba diving or jet skis. The latter is especially popular during the summer months. If you don't want to go overnight on a boat, head to the harbour for day excursions around the sea coast.
Mount Tahtali for Breathtaking Views
Sitting near the Kemer district, get in a cable car with aerial views and ride over the pine forest to arrive at the summit station of Mount Tahtali, which gives off amazing panoramic views over the coastline and stunning beaches and backing Taurus mountain range. It is a short journey of just 10 minutes, and the impressive facilities include a photographer to record your experience. Returning down, the fastest option is paragliding, but this is only for the daredevils. Dining options at sunset are popular because of the fantastic views and make for a romantic setting. This luxurious experience is one that foreign tourists love.
People Also Ask
What is Antalya Known For?
Antalya has many claims to fame, including being the citrus capital of Turkey, and is the second most popular destination for tourism and foreign house sales. The annual Aspendos Ballet and Opera Festival takes place in the historical theatre of the same name. The commercial city features large, luxury, all-inclusive hotels, including the Mardin Palace, the most expensive hotel in Europe at one stage. The ancient history is impressive, as are the accommodation options. Indeed, both tourists and house hunters find abundant options on every corner.
Is Antalya Dangerous?
Ask any repeat holidaymaker or expat; they will say they always feel safer than in their home country. Antalya has a lower crime rate than big-city destinations like Istanbul, London, or Rome. Don't be a victim of opportunity crime, though. Keep wallets and handbags close to you, don't accept drinks from strangers and always use licensed taxis.
Is Antalya a Good Holiday Destination?
Yes, and don't just take our word for it because the proof is seen in yearly tourist visitors' stats that average around 15 million people from different countries worldwide. Antalya will provide if you wish to indulge in luxury entertainment. The diversity of restaurants offers worldwide cuisine, and there are many things to do, vibrant nightlife scenes, and historic streets. This ideal location is the number one spot in Turkey for beach lovers. For quieter experiences than in Antalya city centre, look to outskirt resorts like Belek, Kemer, Side, Kas and Kalkan.
Is Antalya a Good Place to Live?
The quality of life here is among the best on the Turkish coast! The climate suits year-round living with long, hot summers and mild winters. A great choice of bustling locations, shops, charming beaches, restaurants, nightlife, accessible transport links, and medical facilities provide all you need for social amenities. Antalya is a popular destination because the average cost of living is considerably lower than in the UK and other foreign destinations!
Also of Interest - Nearby Alanya
Antalya in Turkey is a big province, and Alanya is another option, growing into a city centre. The landmark Red Castle and city walls are the main tourist attractions, but there are plenty more attractions to boast about. Go traditional by indulging in Turkish cuisine and an excellent old-fashioned Turkish bath, or dress it up in luxury style by hanging out on the promenade in trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants. White water rafting from Alanya is also popular.
Buying Property in Antalya
Antalya is now just as popular as bustling Istanbul, with many people flocking to buy holiday homes, retirement villas, and investment property. Ranking alongside Istanbul for tourism and investment, Antalya is a popular hub for expats wishing to live in Turkey. If you want to learn more about property ownership in Antalya, see our portfolio of apartments and villas here. Alternatively, call and chat with an agent who can answer your questions and give further information on investing in Antalya in Turkey.
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