Antalya is undoubtedly an extraordinary tourism center. The nearby Taurus mountains are covered with pine forests and stretch out to the sparkling sea, forming an irregular coastline of rocky outcrops and hidden coves. Considered one of the least polluted coastal areas in the Mediterranean and among the best of its kind worldwide for its incredible landscapes, this region leaves a lasting memory in the minds of those who visit it.
Antalya is one of the rarest places where you can have a holiday in the summer, and it also draws attention with its winter tourism and historical tourist attractions. For those who love to travel, the list of places to visit in Antalya will be with you in this article.
Hadrian’s Gate
Hadrian’s Gate is one of the main gates to the old city, BC. It was built in the 2nd century AD to mark Emperor Hadrian’s visit to Antalya in 130 AD. The gate has three arched marble gates with four columns on either side.
When you visit the gate, you will see that it is surrounded by defensive towers on the north and south and was built during the Roman period.
Perge Ancient City
The city of Perge is located 15 km east of Antalya, in the past it was the capital of ancient Pamphylia and was ruled by the Greeks, Romans, Persians and Athenians. BC in the city Perga in the 2nd century Apollonius was a famous astronomer at that time and defined it as a geometric term.
Termessos Ancient City
Termessos is located 34 km northwest of Antalya, especially in the Taurus Mountains, and is one of the best preserved ancient cities in Turkey. Its location allowed it to survive over the years and was unconquerable, and Alexander the Great surrendered in the 4th century BC.
Konyaalti Beach
Konyaaltı Beach is located in the east of Antalya, about 7 km from there, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in the city and behind the beach there is an enchanting view of the mountains. With a mix of rough and pebbles, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the day while on the beach.
You can rent umbrellas on the beach, swim in the sea and do many activities. You’ll also find restrooms, shower facilities, and behind the beach an array of restaurants, shops, and cafes to dine at with palm trees and the beautiful scenery all around you.
Yiliminare Mosque
Yiliminare Mosque was built by the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Kayqubad I , destroyed in the 14th century and rebuilt after that. The mosque was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 and is used by Muslims for prayer to this day. The mosque is one of Antalya’s top attractions; Its minaret is a magnificent example of Seljuk architecture and is 38 meters high.
Aspendos Antique Theater
Aspendos, which is 47 km away from Antalya, was built there in BC. You will see a 12000-seat Roman theater built in the 2nd century. In September, events are held for the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.
You can also visit Aspendos, Perge and Manavgat Waterfalls , which are close to attractions . While there, you can see the Roman ruins of Aspendos and the Roman Bridge at Eurymendon , built in the 13th century .
Kursunlu Waterfall
Kurşunlu Waterfall, located in the northeast of Antalya, is one of the branches of the Akdu River and is within a 600-hectare nature park. The waterfall is surrounded by pine forest and you can take a long walk there. You can also reach the park by taking the bus from the center of Antalya, where there will be a picnic area and many restaurants at the entrance of the park.
Lara Beach
Located in the south of Antalya with white sand and beautiful blue water, Lara Beach is famous for its cafes and restaurants. Lara Beach is the perfect place for friends and families and a great tourist attraction. There you can watch the sunset behind the mountains across the bay and Antalya is where most of the resorts are located.
Likya way
The Lycian way is a walking track of approximately 500 km from Antalya to Fethiye in Turkey. It takes about 30-45 days to do the whole walk! Visit the Lycian Way in Antalya to see one of Turkey’s beautiful landmarks.
Old Port
The old port is a very beautiful place to visit as it is full of cafes, boutiques, bazaars and yachts spread all over the port and looks out onto the Mediterranean Sea. The port is surrounded by old city walls, trees and is the starting point of boat tours to many touristic places such as Düden Waterfalls.
The old port was once the main economic center of Antalya, bringing trade to the city and the surrounding area from the 2nd to the 20th century. Today, the harbor is a place where you can relax and enjoy the sunset while drinking coffee or eating.
Old town
The old city is one of Antalya’s top attractions. As you pass through it, it is like a labyrinth and you will see Ottoman houses lined with cobblestones. The houses and mansions there are homes for hotels, restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
While in the old town, there are several places you can visit, the main square with a castle gate and a stone clock tower, as well as the Tekeli Mehmet Pasha mosque, built in the 18th century and with a wonderful interior design.
Side
Side is one of the most visited ancient cities in Turkey. The history of the city, which stretches towards the Mediterranean and is only a 1-hour drive from Antalya, dates back to BC. It dates back to the 7th century.
The most impressive remains, however, are the well-preserved city walls and main gate, built by the Greeks in the 2nd century BC, and the colonaded street, theater and Temple of Apollo , built in the 2nd century AD during the Golden Age of Roman construction .
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FAQ
How much is the Manavgat waterfall entrance fee?
Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee is applied as 6 TL in 2023. If the relatives of veterans and martyrs will enter the sightseeing point, no fee is charged.
Is there an entrance fee to Side Antique City?
Side Antique City can be visited free of charge. The current entrance fee is 15 TL. If you are going to visit the Side Theater, you have to pay 30 TL. There is no fee for those who will visit the ancient city, but there are visiting hours.
How long is Turgut Waterfall open?
There is no one hour or entrance fee for waterfall entrance and exit. You can come and visit Turgut Waterfall whenever you want.
What is written on the door of the Temple of Apollo?
Gnothi at the entrance to the Temple of Apollo Seauton means Know Yourself in Turkish. This inscription is in Greek and can be seen at the door from the very first moment.