15 Best Things to Do in Antalya (2026 Guide)

Antalya is where Türkiye's history meets the Mediterranean. In a single trip you can walk through a Roman gate built for an emperor, watch a waterfall plunge into the sea, sit in one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world and end the day on a sandy beach. Here are the 15 experiences that make Antalya special.

In the City

1. Wander Kaleiçi Old Town

Antalya's historic heart is a maze of cobbled lanes, Ottoman wooden houses, boutique cafés and bougainvillea-covered walls. Get lost on purpose, then follow the slope down to the old harbour. Read our full Kaleiçi walking guide.

2. Walk Through Hadrian's Gate

This triple-arched marble gate was built in 130 AD to welcome Emperor Hadrian. It is still the grand entrance to the Old Town, and the grooves worn by Roman cart wheels are visible in the stone.

3. See the Yivli Minaret and the Clock Tower

The fluted Yivli Minaret, built by the Seljuks in the 13th century, is the symbol of Antalya. Nearby, the stone Clock Tower marks the meeting point between the old and the modern city.

4. Watch the Sunset at the Old Harbour

The Roman harbour below Kaleiçi is lined with traditional wooden boats and seafood restaurants. It is the best place in the city to watch the sun drop behind the Taurus Mountains.

5. Take a Boat Trip Along the Cliffs

Short boat trips from the old harbour sail along Antalya's dramatic cliffs to the point where the Lower Düden Waterfall pours into the sea. It is one of the most photographed views on the Turkish Riviera.

6. Visit the Düden Waterfalls

The Upper Düden Waterfall sits in a shaded park with walkways behind the falling water. The Lower Düden Waterfall drops about 40 metres from the cliffs straight into the Mediterranean near Lara. Seeing both is a highlight of any Antalya city tour.

7. Explore Karpuzkaldıran Waterfall

This is a quieter cascade near the coast, often combined with Düden on guided city tours.

8. Discover Hıdırlık Tower and Karaalioğlu Park

This 2nd-century Roman tower stands at the edge of Kaleiçi and offers sweeping sea views. The park next to it is perfect for an evening stroll.

Ancient Wonders Nearby

9. Aspendos Theatre

This is the best-preserved Roman theatre in the world, built in the 2nd century AD and still used for concerts today. The acoustics are remarkable: a whisper on stage carries to the top rows.

10. Perge Ancient City

Perge has a monumental Hellenistic gate, a long colonnaded street with water channels, Roman baths and a huge stadium. It is only 20 minutes from the city.

11. Side and the Temple of Apollo

Side is a seaside town built on ancient ruins. The columns of the Temple of Apollo stand right at the water's edge and glow golden at sunset.

12. Manavgat Waterfall

This wide, low waterfall on the Manavgat River is a refreshing stop on the way back from Side.

All four sites can be combined in one day. See our Aspendos, Perge & Side day trip guide.

Nature & Sea

13. Ride the Tahtalı (Olympos) Cable Car

This cable car climbs to about 2,365 metres above sea level. On a clear day you can see the whole coastline below.

14. Relax on Konyaaltı or Lara Beach

Konyaaltı is a long pebbly beach with mountain views on the city's west side. Lara is a wide sandy beach to the east, popular with families.

15. Sail to Suluada or Kemer

Full-day boat trips take you to turquoise coves, quiet bays and swimming stops. They are a great day out from May to October.

When to Visit Antalya

How to Combine Antalya with Istanbul or Cappadocia

Antalya is about 1 hour 20 minutes by plane from Istanbul. There are also direct flights from Kayseri, the airport for Cappadocia. That makes it easy to combine Türkiye's three most popular regions in one trip:

• Istanbul & Antalya Tour Package: 6 days with Istanbul's Old City, Kaleiçi, Düden Waterfalls, Perge, Aspendos and Side
• Istanbul, Cappadocia & Antalya Tour: 7 days with fairy chimneys, an optional balloon ride and the Mediterranean coast

Both packages include 4★ hotels, domestic flights and guided tours, with shared or private options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Antalya?

Three days is ideal: one for the city and waterfalls, one for Perge, Aspendos and Side, and one for the beach or a boat trip.

Is Antalya good for families?

Yes. It has safe beaches, family-friendly hotels and easy day trips, and halal food is available everywhere.

Can you visit Antalya in winter?

Yes. Winters are mild, and the historic sites are far less crowded.

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