Visit Antalya, Türkiye, the world's 4th most visited city

Among Türkiye (Turkey)’s many captivating cities, Antalya stands out as a resort destination that truly has it all. With its old town dating back to the Roman era, vibrant shopping areas for local products, a shimmering turquoise sea, and a picturesque promenade with breathtaking sunset views overlooking the Mediterranean, there’s no place quite like Antalya.

Get to Know Antalya

Antalya is not only the name of a region but also the fifth most populous city in Türkiye. Situated in the southwest of the country along the Mediterranean coast, it has become a beloved resort city. In 2023, Antalya was ranked as the fourth most visited city in the world, following Istanbul, London, and Dubai. Last year alone, it welcomed over 16.5 million tourists.

Tips: There are direct flights from Istanbul to Antalya every day, with a quick journey of just one and a half hours.

Explore the Old Town of Kaleici

The heart of Antalya is the historic district known as Kaleici, an ancient port city with a rich history dating back to the Greco-Roman era around 200 BC. Today, visitors can wander through narrow alleys lined with ancient buildings that now house charming accommodations, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. As you stroll through this enchanting area, keep an eye out for the 1,900-year-old Roman Hadrian’s Gate, the 1,800-year-old Sehzade Korkut Mosque (originally a Christian church), and the 120-year-old clock tower. In the evenings, the promenade along the Mediterranean comes alive, especially the stretch from Kizil Kule Tower to Karaalioglu Park, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy a leisurely walk and witness the stunning sunset.

Kizil Kule Tower (Photo Credit: iStockphoto)

Hadrian's Gate (Photo Credit: iStockphoto) — Hadrian’s Gate (Photo Credit: iStockphoto)

Souvenir shops in the old town (Photo Credit: iStockphoto)

Take the Classic Tram

Getting around Antalya is made even more convenient with the classic trams. The most popular route is the Nostalgic Tram, which operates from the Antalya Archaeological Museum through the old town and key attractions like Hadrian’s Gate and Karaalioglu Park, ultimately reaching Lara Plaji, the city’s eastern beach.

Tram ride in Antalya (Photo Credit: iStockphoto)

Antalya Bay Cruise

A highlight of any trip to Antalya is a cruise on the beautiful Antalya Bay. The main marinas serving tourists can be found at Antalya Marina. With various cruise options available, you can choose a quick coastal cruise to enjoy stunning scenery, explore natural caves, and view Duden Waterfall cascading from the cliffs into the Mediterranean. For a more immersive experience, consider a boat that offers meals, entertainment, or snorkeling opportunities in the turquoise waters.

Learn About the Past Through the Archaeological Museum

The Antalya Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of history, meticulously preserving thousands of years of artifacts. With over 5,000 items on display, excavated from Antalya and Anatolia, and another 30,000 in storage – the museum showcases pieces that tell stories from prehistoric times through the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, highlighting the region’s rich and ancient heritage.

Tips: For cat lovers, do not miss the friendly feline residents in the museum’s garden, which also serves as a café and outdoor exhibit. Be sure to say hello before you leave!