Must-See Places for an Unforgettable Holiday in Antalya
Antalya: Paradise Where History, Nature and the Sea Meet
Antalya is a tourist paradise located on the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye and hosts millions of tourists every year.The city fascinates visitors from all over the world with both its historical riches and natural beauties.Antalya appeals to all kinds of holiday concepts with its ancient cities, magnificent beaches, waterfalls, canyons and modern tourism opportunities.The history of Antalya dates back to the 2nd century BC.The city hosted many civilizations such as the Lycians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans respectively.This rich history is evident in every corner of the city.The narrow streets, ancient Antalya attracts attention not only for history and nature lovers, but also for its modern tourism opportunities.Luxurious hotels, amusement parks, shopping malls and delicious Mediterranean cuisine offer visitors an unforgettable holiday experience.
1. Kaleiçi
Kaleiçi, the historical heart of Antalya, is famous for its narrow streets, restored Ottoman houses and ancient port.This region, which bears traces of the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods, is like an open-air museum.Hadrian's Gate is one of the most important symbols of Kaleiçi and was built in honor of the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian to the city.It also attracts attention with its nightlife, boutique hotels and restaurants.
*While walking around Kaleiçi, you can see the historical Yivli Minaret and traces of Seljuk architecture.In the evenings, you can sit in a cafe in the ancient port and watch the sea view.
2. Antalya Archaeological Museum
Antalya Museum, one of the largest and most important museums in Türkiye, is full of artifacts unearthed from ancient cities in the region.The most valuable pieces of the museum are the statues, mosaics and sarcophagi brought from ancient cities such as Perge, Side and Aspendos.The museum offers visitors a historical journey with its 14 exhibition halls and open-air galleries.
*The "Tired Hercules" statue unearthed from the ancient city of Perge is one of the most famous works of the museum.Additionally, the mosaics exhibited in the museum reflect the artistic richness of the Roman period.
3. Duden Waterfall
Duden Waterfall, one of the natural beauties of Antalya, is only 10 km away from the city center.The waterfall splits into two branches:Upper Düden and Lower Düden. Lower Düden Waterfall offers a magnificent view at the point where it flows into the sea.It is an ideal place for those who want to cool off, especially in the summer months.
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*You can take boat tours at the point where the waterfall flows into the sea and see this natural wonder up close.You can also have a picnic in the parks around the waterfall in Upper Duden.
4. Perge Ancient City
Located 18 km east of Antalya, the ancient city of Perge is one of the most important cities of the Roman period.It is famous for its theatre, stadium, colonnaded streets and monumental fountains.Perge is also important in terms of Christian history; it is known that St. Paul preached here.
*Perge's stadium was one of the largest stadiums in Anatolia in ancient times, with a capacity of 12,000 people.You can also feel the splendor of the Roman period as you walk along the colonnaded streets.
5. Aspendos Ancient Theatre
Aspendos, one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world, dates back to the Roman period and still hosts events with a capacity of 15,000 people.The acoustics of the theater are so good that a whispered voice in the middle of the stage can be heard even from the top rows.
*The annual Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival takes place in this ancient theatre.At these events, you can have the chance to watch a performance in an ancient atmosphere.
6. Side Ancient City
Side, an ancient port city, offers historical and natural beauties together.The Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre and the Side Museum are the most important structures of the city.Side is also a touristic centre and is famous for its beaches and restaurants.
*The Temple of Apollo offers a magnificent view, especially at sunset.You can also see artifacts from ancient times at the Side Museum.
7. Olympos Ancient City
Olympos is an open-air museum famous for its ancient ruins and natural beauties.Located on the Lycian Way, this ancient city is also a breeding ground for caretta caretta turtles.
*You can enjoy nature while walking among the ancient ruins in Olympos.You can also observe loggerhead turtles on the beach.
8. Cirali Beach
Çıralı Beach next to Olympos is famous for its natural beauty and calm atmosphere.The beach is protected as it is a breeding ground for caretta caretta turtles.
*Watching the sunset in Çıralı is an unforgettable experience.You can also take a walk in the forest area opposite the beach.