On the southwestern coast of Türkiye, where the Taurus Mountains descend dramatically to the azure sea, lies Antalya – a city that captures the heart of every traveller. It's one of those places where you wake up to the sound of waves and fall asleep in the evening with the scent of jasmine in the air. A city where ancient history meets modern luxury, and where in a single day you can explore ancient ruins, sail on a yacht, and relax on a white-sand beach.

 

Kaleiçi

The heart of Antalya beats in Kaleiçi – the ancient, walled old town where you touch thousand-year-old history with every step. The name literally means "inside the fortress." And that's exactly what you'll feel – as if you've stepped into another world where time has stood still.

The first thing to enchant you are the narrow, cobblestone streets – winding, quiet, sometimes so narrow you can almost touch the houses on both sides. And getting lost here is actually part of the experience.

Old houses with wooden balconies, pastel-coloured facades, walls overgrown with vines. An aimless stroll has a special magic in Kaleiçi. A small discovery awaits in every alley.

The houses in Kaleiçi are a textbook example of Ottoman architecture: the upper floors overhang the street, windows are protected by wooden shutters, and each building has its own personality. Many of them now serve as boutique hotels, galleries, cafés, or restaurants – yet they have retained their historic charm.

Hadrian's Gate (Hadrian Kapısı) welcomes you as a proud sentinel between the past and the present. This magnificent Roman triumphal arch, built in 130 AD in honour of Emperor Hadrian, captivates even centuries later with its three elegant marble arches and rich decoration. Every step beneath its archway is like a transition between two worlds – you leave behind the bustle of modern Antalya, and the silent story of ancient times opens up before you.

Address: Barbaros, Atatürk Cd, Hadrian Kale Kapısı, Antalya

 
Not far away, the minaret of the Yivli Mosque (Yivliminare Cami) towers towards the sky, one of Antalya's most distinctive landmarks. Built in the early 13th century during the reign of the Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat I, the 38-meter-high minaret charms with its elegance and unique design. The mosque is one of the oldest multi-domed mosques in Asia Minor. The entire complex is a masterpiece of Anatolian architecture and a living reminder of the city's rich history.

Address: Selçuk, Korkut Sk., Antalya

A mysterious and somewhat melancholic structure is undoubtedly the Kesik minaret of the Korkut Mosque (Korkut Cami), also known as the "Truncated Minaret.” Only half of the minaret soars into the sky, looking as if a giant had sliced it off with a sword. Its tip is missing, its body gaping open like a wound. And yet, or perhaps because of this, it is indescribably beautiful. It is a silent witness to a turbulent history.

The Romans built a magnificent temple here. The Byzantines transformed it into a lavish church. After conquering the city, the Seljuks converted the church into a mosque and added that stunning minaret. And then came the year 1851 and a devastating fire that forever scarred the structure.

Today, the Kesik minaret serves as a quiet place for reflection – a hidden gem that most tourists only notice in passing. But everyone who stops feels the peculiar atmosphere of a place where history is written not just in stone, but also in what is missing.

Address: Kılınçarslan, Hesapçı Sk. No:42, Antalya

 

Harbour

Tucked beneath the cliffs of the old town Kaleiçi, like a treasure hidden under the lid of time, the originally Roman harbour will draw you into an atmosphere you'll fall in love with before you can even finish saying "Mediterranean."

The harbour is nestled in a natural bay surrounded by cliffs and ancient city walls, giving it a unique charm. Small fishing boats share the space with excursion boats and yachts, inviting you for trips along the coast or romantic sunset cruises.

When you sit down in one of the cafés overlooking the bay in the morning and watch the water surface slowly awaken under the first rays of sun, you'll understand why this is one of the city's most beloved spots – for tourists and locals alike.

In the evening, the harbour lights up with the glow from restaurants and bars, but the magic doesn't disappear – it just changes its face. And therein lies its power: it's different every time, but always unforgettable.

 

The Antalya Museum

Don't expect an ordinary museum here. The Antalya Museum (Antalya Müzesi) is a place where you walk among masterpieces that have survived the ages. Every single exhibited item is an artistic treasure in its own right – and that's no coincidence. Antalya's location in the heart of Asia Minor made it a guardian of the treasures of Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations.

What should you definitely not miss? The famous statue of Weary Hercules, the Elmali coins, and the Hall of the Emperors.

Address: Bahçelievler, Konyaaltı Cd. No:88, Antalya

 

Where to go nearby?

Just about 45 minutes from Antalya, you will find a place that will literally take your breath away – the ancient Aspendos Theatre (Aspendos Antik Tiyatrosu). This Roman theatre is considered the best-preserved in the world. It was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

It is unique for its architecture: a richly decorated two-story stage, a covered gallery around the perimeter of the auditorium, and excellent acoustics that still impress today's visitors. The theatre served as a palace during the Seljuk era, and preserved paintings in red tones date from this period.

How to get here? By car: From Antalya, take the D400 highway towards Serik. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The road is well-signposted, and parking at the archaeological site is easily available. With a guide: Choose an organized guided tour from Antalya. These trips add expert commentary that helps you understand the context of the place even more deeply.

The opening hours of the site are subject to change.

Address: Belkıs, Aspendos Yolu, Antalya

 

What to taste?

Piyaz – a salad whose base is white beans, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. What makes Antalya's piyaz special is its tahini (sesame paste) sauce, which gives it a creamy and rich flavour. It is often served as a side dish to grilled meat.

Tantuni – thin slices of lamb or beef that are stewed in a pan with their own juice, onion, and spices. The mixture is then wrapped in thin pita bread, sometimes with the addition of fresh parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice.

Kabak Tatlısı – pumpkin slices slowly cooked in sugar, served with tahini and crushed nuts.

 

Best Beaches:

Antalya is known not only for its historical sites and food but especially for its beautiful beaches with turquoise seas. Unlike crowded European beaches, you can often find peace and quiet here even during the peak season.

One of the most famous and popular beaches right in the city of Antalya is Konyaaltı Beach, which stretches for several kilometres west of the centre. The surface is mainly pebbles, but there are also sections with coarse sand. Thanks to the promenade, many cafes, restaurants, sports fields, and easy access by public transport, it's ideal for daily swimming and evening walks. It's very popular with both locals and tourists.

If you prefer sandy beaches, you will certainly appreciate Lara Beach, located east of the city centre. This beach is known for its fine sand, gentle entry into the sea, and a number of luxurious hotel resorts in the area. It is ideal for families with children and for anyone looking for comfort, amenities, beach bars, or water sports.

Right in the historic centre of Antalya, beneath the walls of the old town Kaleiçi, lies the small but very charming Mermerli Beach. Access is possible through the restaurant of the same name, and the beach offers sun loungers, clean sea, and a beautiful view of the bay. Although it's a smaller space and there is an entrance fee, its atmosphere is intimate and very pleasant. It is particularly suitable for individuals or couples looking for a quiet place to relax right in the city.

 

Where to stay?

If you want to experience Antalya differently, stay right in Kaleiçi. The local boutique hotels are charming and full of atmosphere. In the morning, you'll wake up to the scent of freshly brewed tea and a view of the old rooftops.

We opted for accommodation outside the city centre, at the resort Sueno Hotels Deluxe Belek, located approximately 35 kilometres east of Antalya.

We can highly recommend this hotel. It offers first-class services, spacious and modern rooms, several swimming pools, a water park, a private sandy beach, excellent dining, and above all – excellent facilities for golfers. The resort is located right next to the Sueno Golf Club, which has two 18-hole courses – Pines and Dunes – suitable for both recreational players and experienced golfers.

Address: Belek, Kadriye 5 sokak No:5/2, Serik/Antalya

 

How to Get Around in Antalya?

If you are staying at the Sueno Hotel Deluxe Belek, you will probably be interested in how best to get to Antalya and how to get around there.

The nearest bus stop is located directly opposite the resort. However, it's good to know that the buses here don't run entirely on schedule, so it pays to be patient. You pay for the ticket directly to the driver in dollars. The drivers only speak broken English, but with a little effort, you will be able to communicate.

In the city itself, we recommend the tram – it's a fast, cheap, and comfortable mode of transport. Tickets can be purchased directly on the platform by credit card, which is a safe and simple solution for tourists as well.

Once you arrive in the centre, the best way to get around is on foot. You can best enjoy the alleyways of the old town, the markets, and the coastal promenades by walking.

 

Our final recommendation:

If you are planning to visit multiple historical monuments, museums, and archaeological sites during your trip to Türkiye, definitely consider getting a MuseumPass Türkiye E-Card – this electronic ticket grants access to more than 350 museums and archaeological sites managed by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.