It’s no wonder that Antalya is one of Turkey’s most popular vacation spots, thanks to its magnificent hotels, beautiful beaches, and extensive collection of notable historical landmarks. It’s a year-round destination with bright, sunny summers and moderate winters, so there’s never a poor time to visit this beautiful city on the country’s gorgeous Turquoise Coast. Antalya is equally popular with couples seeking a romantic escape as it is with families seeking a memorable vacation together. Let’s now spotlight the best places to visit in Antalya.
Aspendos
The old Greco-Roman city of Aspendos is a great example of Turkish history, especially its magnificent Roman theatre. The beautiful theatre, which was built in AD 155, has weathered the test of time. It was planned to hold 12,000 spectators, who would be entertained by gladiator contests, and was approximately 100 metres tall.
Currently, you may visit the theatre, one of the best places to visit in Antalya, on a day excursion from the bustling metropolis and take a look at its remarkable architecture for yourself. The yearly Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival is also held here for the maximum theatrical pleasure.
Kursunlu Waterfalls
The Kursunlu Waterfalls, the best things to do in Antalya Turkey, are a modest cascade nestled in the middle of a cool pine woodland. The Kursunlu Waterfalls, while not as stunning as the more popular Duden Waterfalls, have a more isolated feel to them due to their location and access via a short and enjoyable walk through the forest. The neighboring area, which is only 20 minutes from centre Antalya, offers plenty of walking options, particularly along the Aksu River. During the summer months, the falls are more of a trickle, but trout and turtles can be seen in the pools that create here.
Antalya Aquarium
Antalya Aquarium, one of the best places to visit in Antalya on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is most renowned for holding the world’s largest underwater tunnel exhibit. The attraction centre also has a tropical reptile house, 3D theatre, and a snow-themed museum in addition to its 430-foot (131-meter) by 10-foot (3-meter) tunnel and 40 themed tanks.
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Antalya Museum
The Antalya Museum, one of the best things to do in Antalya Turkey, boasts a fantastic all-encompassing collection that showcases every part of Turkey’s rich history. The Antalya Museum (Antalya Müzesi) was founded in 1922 as a means of preventing the country’s ancient riches from being taken following World War I. This is one of the Antalya attractions that you definitely must see. Antalya Museum is worth a visit for its modernity and global insights on culture.
Antalya Hadrian’s Gate
The distinctive Hadrian’s Gate is the main entry into Kaleiçi, Antalya’s gorgeous Old Town, and is easily one of the city’s most iconic sites. This historical landmark, which provides the ideal Instagram photo opportunity, was built in AD 130 to honour Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city. The gate, which has three marble arches and three massive towers, is part of the world’s best-preserved Hellenistic and Roman town fortifications.
Antalya Marina
The Antalya Marina (Kaleiçi Yat Liman), one of the best places to visit in Antalya Turkey, is the city’s beating heart. It stretches along the waterfront beneath the steep cobblestone streets of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s Old Town. This historic harbour is bursting with activity at all hours, with cruise ships, ferries, yachts, and fishing boats continuously coming and departing. It is a renowned destination for both local tourists and foreigners.
Karain Cave
The Karain Cave is one of Antalya’s prehistoric attractions. These caves are about 25,000 years old, according to legend. Ruins dating from the Lower and Middle Palaeolithic periods have been discovered here. Karain Cave, one of the best things to do in Antalya, consists of bones, teeth, and weapons, among other things. Although some of the cave’s passageways are narrow, they are all worthwhile for a glimpse into the magnificence of the prehistoric era.
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Lara Beach
Lara Beach is a lively and attractive resort located close to the east of Antalya. The primary lure to this location is – you guessed it – the beach. It’s sometimes compared to Las Vegas because of its lavish hotels and uninterrupted entertainment. Spend a bit of time relaxing on the soft, golden sands of Lara Beach instead of absorbing the busy attractions and pleasures of city life.
Antalya Old Town
Kaleici, or Old Town, one of the best places to visit in Antalya, is a maze-like district suited for living and breathing the basic mediaeval atmosphere. The Old Town of Antalya is still the beating heart of this modern Turkish city. This lovely area of Antalya encompasses a wealth of tourist attractions. It was once a bustling area, but now it is filled with opulent boutique hotels, captivating art galleries, modest souvenir shops, and unusual restaurants.
Roman Fortress
The main aim of this 14-meter-high cylindrical tower in the 2nd century was to keep an eye on the port of Old Harbor. Roman Fortress, one of the best things to do in Antalya Turkey, still performs the same purpose now. Instead of looking out over Old Harbor, you can gaze out over the city’s spectacular sunsets and mystical far-reaching landscapes. This is a popular choice among visitors who want to enjoy a picnic at one of Antalya’s tourism attractions.