Top Things to Do in Antalya — Curated for You

Why Visit Antalya?

From golden beaches and ancient ruins to canyons, waterfalls, and lively old-town streets, Antalya offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Use this curated guide to plan the top things to do in Antalya—whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.

Top Highlights at a Glance

• Kaleiçi (Old Town): Ottoman-era houses, boutique cafes, Hadrian’s Gate, and postcard harborside views.
• Beaches: Konyaaltı & Lara for easy access; Kaputaş & Patara for scenic day trips.
• Ancient Sites: Perge, Aspendos, and Side—world-class ruins and iconic amphitheaters.
• Waterfalls: Düden, Kurşunlu, and Manavgat—great for quick nature escapes and photos.
• Outdoor Adventures: Jeep safaris, rafting in Köprülü Canyon, canyoning, zipline, and diving.
• Boat Days: Lazy bays, turquoise water, sunbathing decks—ideal for families and groups.
• Local Flavors: Fresh seafood meze, kebabs, piyaz, tahinli dondurma, and traditional Turkish breakfast.

Must-See Places

• Kaleiçi & Marina: Wander cobblestones, shop local crafts, and catch sunset by the harbor.
• Aspendos Theatre: One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters—architecture lovers rejoice.
• Perge & Side: Walk ancient streets, temples, and agoras; end with a beachside stroll in Side.
• Düden Waterfalls: Upper falls for greenery and caves; lower falls for dramatic sea cliffs.
• Konyaaltı & Lara: City beaches with promenades, cycling paths, and beach clubs.

Unmissable Experiences

• Full-Day Boat Tour: Swim stops in hidden coves, onboard lunch, and chill beats under the sun.
• Köprülü Canyon Rafting: Family-friendly rapids (class I–II), forest scenery, and zipline combos.
• Jeep Safari & Village Visit: Off-road tracks, panoramic points, local tastings, and culture.
• Dive the Mediterranean: Clear visibility, beginner-friendly reefs, and two-dive day boats.
• Sunset in Kaleiçi: Golden hour photos, harbor views, and meze & seafood dinner.

Perfect Day Trips

• Side & Manavgat: Antique theatres, temples, and a riverside market vibe.
• Termessos: Mountain-top ruins with epic views—great for hikers and photographers.
• Olympos & Çıralı: Chill beaches, tree-house cafés, and the eternal flames of Yanartaş.
• Demre & Myra: Rock-cut tombs, St. Nicholas Church, and Kekova island boat ride.

When to Visit & How to Plan

Best months: April–June and September–October (warm sea, fewer crowds). Peak summer: July–August (book boat tours and canyon trips ahead; bring sun protection).

Trip length: 3–4 days for city + beaches; 5–7 days to include ruins and nature day trips.

Practical Tips

• Transport: City trams and taxis are easy; rent a car for Side, Olympos, and canyon routes.
• What to pack: Reef-friendly sunscreen, water shoes (rocky bays), hat, and light layers.
• Dining: Reserve popular seaside spots for sunset; try meze spreads and grilled local fish.
• Payments: Cards widely accepted; carry small cash for markets and rural stops.
• Safety: Tourist areas are well-patrolled; keep hydrated and avoid midday heat in summer.

FAQs

How many days do I need in Antalya?

With 3–4 days you can cover Old Town, beaches, and a waterfall. Add 2–3 more days for ancient sites and a canyon adventure.

Are boat tours family-friendly?

Yes—look for full-day or half-day options with shaded decks and calm swim stops; many include lunch and life vests.

Can I visit ruins without a guide?

Absolutely. Sites have signage; audio guides help. A guided tour adds deeper context and efficient routing.

What’s the easiest first-timer plan?

Day 1: Kaleiçi & Konyaaltı • Day 2: Boat tour • Day 3: Düden & Lara • Day 4: Perge–Aspendos–Side combo.