Antalya
Photo by Arthur Shuraev on Unsplash
1 / 5Turkey · Coastal resort city
Antalya is the Turkish Riviera's main resort city, a long stretch of Mediterranean coastline where beaches and cliffs give way to the walled old town of Kaleiçi. With 729 hotels on offer, from grand all-inclusive properties such as Kremlin Palace to quieter downtown stays, it balances sun-and-sea tourism with genuine history.
Known for: Beaches · History · Relaxation · Family-friendly
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Pamukkale Hierapolis and Cleopatra's Pool Tour with lunch from Antalya
12 hr
(2,870 reviews)
From $80
The best time to visit Antalya is from April to June and September to October, when temperatures are warm (22-33°C) and rain is infrequent. July and August are the hottest and driest months, with highs around 35-37°C, ideal for beachgoers but intense for sightseeing. November through February brings cooler weather and the most rain, especially December and January. For pleasant sightseeing and outdoor activities, late spring and early autumn are the most comfortable.
For a first visit, stay in the city center around Kaleiçi, the old town, for easy access to Hadrian's Gate and the harbor. Lara Beach suits those wanting large resort hotels and the Duden Waterfalls nearby. Konyaaltı offers a more relaxed beachfront with views of the Taurus Mountains. The Marmara Antalya and Doubletree by Hilton are in the city center, while the Delphin Imperial Lara and Kremlin Palace are on Lara Beach.
Duden Waterfalls and Lower Duden Waterfalls are the city's top natural sights, with the lower falls dropping into the sea. Karaalioglu Park offers sea views and a relaxed stroll. Hadrian's Gate is the ancient Roman entrance to the old town. Hidirlik Tower provides a historic landmark with panoramic views. The Land of Legends Theme Park is a major attraction for families.
From Antalya, full-day tours head to Pamukkale for its white travertine terraces and Cleopatra's Pool, and to Perge, Aspendos, Side and Manavgat Waterfalls for ancient ruins and a scenic cascade. The Sunken City Kekova, Demre and Myra tour covers Lycian ruins and rock-cut tombs. A boat trip to Adrasan and Suluada island offers a day on the water. For a more active outing, a combo tour from Belek includes rafting, quad biking, jeep safari and ziplining.
Plan 3 to 4 days in Antalya. In that time, you can see the Duden Waterfalls, Lower Duden Waterfalls, Karaalioglu Park, Hadrian's Gate, and Hidirlik Tower, plus the Land of Legends Theme Park if you like. If you want to take a full-day tour to places like Pamukkale or Perge, Aspendos, and Side, add an extra day for each trip.
