Top 10 things to do in Antalya
1. Hit the Beach
With a mean sea temperature higher than 2 °C during more than half of the year, 3000 sunshine hours per year and golden sandy beaches stretching on for kilometers along the Mediterranean coast there is not a single reason that should prevent you from hitting the beach anytime you are in Antalya.
2. Duden Waterfalls
There are two Duden Waterfalls, upper and lower. We recommend visiting at least one of them as both have something unique. The upper falls is very close to the city and it has a spiral staircase that will let you reach a natural cave behind the waterfall; the lower one instead spills directly into the sea and is easily reachable by boat (approx. 1 hour from the old city).
3. Antalya Archaeological Museum
One of the most famous museums in Turkey, the museum of Antalya is mainly centered on the classical period, displaying several Greek and Roman statues and other objects and works of art. There is also an interesting collection of ancient coins and a section dedicated to children.
4. Perga
On the Mediterranean coast, 15 km east of Antalya, lay the ruins of Perga, which used to be a prosperous Greek city during the Classical era. Make sure to dedicate some hours to the complex because of its sheer size.
5. Koprulu Canyon
Kopruli Canyon is part of the national park named after the canyon itself, which in some points is as deep as 400m. This canyon is an awesome place for hikers and a nice spot for camping, although rafting is widely considered the most adventurous and terrific experience. These activities can be organized through several tour agencies in Antalya.
6. Karaalioglu Park
Karaalioglu is a graceful urban park well worth a stroll featuring an excellent spot where it is possible to have stunning views over cliffs. Watching the sunset while sitting in one of the cozy cafes of the park can be a very romantic experience.
7. Hidirlik Tower
Close to Karaalioglu Park there is Hidirlik Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks of Antalya. Used during history either as lighthouse, fortification or lookout, this circular tower was built during the 2nd century AD and currently still stands amusing tourists.
8. MiniCity Antalya
MiniCity Antalya is an entertainment center that will surprise not only kids, but also their parents. It offers an amazing cultural experience to the visitors, by showing miniatures of great architectural masterpieces from ancient civilizations.
9. Hadrian’s Gate
Many important cities like Berlin or Paris may have triumphal arches, but not often they can boost Classical era ones. Antalya is blessed with Hadrian’s Gate, built with white marble in 130 BC in Hadrian’s honor.
10. Marina
Wandering along narrow streets and then descent the steep stairs leading to the Marina is surely a picturesque experience. The Marina itself however, is even more enchanting, thanks to yachts, fishing boats, restaurants and cafes. This is also an area rich of several shops selling souvenirs and other interesting goods such as spices.