Location: Antalya
Top Things to do in Antalya
The 10 Best Free Things to do in Antalya, Turkish Mediterranean Coast
Antalya is the fastest-growing city in Turkey, and tourists from around the world are discovering its fabulous mix of great beaches and traditional Turkish culture. Kids will love the Beach Park, which features Aqua Land (a waterslide-fanatic's dream) and Dolphin Land (home to dolphins, sea lions and white whales). Make sure to explore the old town center and to see Hadrian's Gate.
Restaurants in Antalya
1. Yivli Minaret Mosque
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 270 reviews
This mosque was built in the 13th century by the Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubat. The elegant, fluted minaret has become a symbol of Anatalya.
Reviewed By carolas936 - Marietta, United States
Yivli Minaret Mosque (a.k.a Alaaddin Mosque , Yivli Minare Mosque (literally: "Fluted Minaret" Mosque), or Ulu Cami, "Grand Mosque") is located in Kaleiçi (old town) on Cumhuriyet Cd. It is part of a külliye (mosque complex) which includes the Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev Medrese (school), Seljuk and Dervish lodge, and the tombs of Zincirkıran and Nigar Hatun. The mosque's fluted minaret is a landmark and symbol of the city (it is listed as a World Heritage Site). The original mosque and minaret was built in 1230 on the orders of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I (the Seljuk Sultan of Rûm who ruled from 1220-1237), incorporating the walls of a ruined Byzantine church (earthworks from this period can be seen under a glassed section of floor within the mosque). The original mosque (but not the minaret) was destroyed in the 14th century; an inscription at the entrance indicates the current mosque was built in 1373 by Mehmet Bey, grandson of Yunus Bey from the Hamitoglu clan. The prayer hall was rebuilt with its six domes and is one of the oldest examples of multi-domed mosques in Anatolia. The building is rectangular with plain decoration, with a roof supported by 12 columns with ancient column heads. Beside it, the 38m fluted minaret is a unique example of Anatolian Turkish architecture, standing on a large square stone base. The minaret has eight flutes on its brick shaft, and was originally decorated with dark blue and turquoise-colored tiles on every other row of the minaret trunk, giving an illusion of stripes running up the flanks. The minaret was restored in 1953, 1961 and 1973. The minaret is beautifully lit at night, highlighting its top and conical roof. In the mosque garden are two mausoleums, one of Sufi sheikh Zincirkıran Mehmet Bey (1377) and the other of Nigar Hatun (who died in 1503, the consort of Ottoman Sultan Bayezid II). The mosque is open every day, but may be closed during times of prayer. There is no entrance fee, although a donation is gratefully accepted.
2. Kaleici
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,182 reviews
The old city of Antalya contains many of the city's historic sites. Renovations to the marina and waterfront have added several hotels, restaurants and shops, making this a popular tourist destination.
Reviewed By Moumita - New Delhi, India
One of my most memorable places that I have visited and stayed at is Kaleici. Its a beautiful old town with old cobbled streets, a lovely old harbour with beaches and lovely views, amazing places to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs as well as carpets and leather goods, and a foodie heaven with awesome street food as well as fine dine places. The area should be explored on foot, with myriad lanes and by-lanes taking you to different historical sites that add charm to the whole experience. One of the oldest Turkish bath houses is also to be found here, which I chanced upon during just walking around and soaking in the atmosphere. on weekends, the whole street near the old harbour turns into a pub, with restaurants and pubs playing live music and serving food outside on the street.. Its a not to be missed place for travellers who love to explore!
3. Hadrian's Gate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,735 reviews
A historical site not to be missed. Just off Atatürk Boulevard you’ll see the impressive three double arches of the gates, which were erected in 130 to celebrate the visit of Emperor Hadrian. Legend has it that in ancient times, the queen of Sheba passed through the middle arch on her way to Aspensos and spent a happy night with King Salomon. With the exception of the columns, the arch is made from white marble and is richly decorated.
Reviewed By tinakosovo - Pristina, Kosovo
Jus go there is very easy in Antalya you can take tramway and stop it in Murat Pasa, there is Hadrian's Gate, Kaleiçi and Marina this place is the old city Antalya.
4. Karaalioglu Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 393 reviews
This urban park contains many colorful and exotic flowers, and is a favorite place for a leisurely stroll.
Reviewed By Anonymous06092001 - Hong Kong, China
Beautiful park with magnificent view. 1. If you are into history, you can see the Hidirlik Tower, a fortress which was built by the Romans in the 2nd Century CE. It is just a normal fotress but it fills the park with historical atmosphere. 2. If you are into photography, definitely bring your camera over there. You can take a panoramic pictures of the ocean in the park. 3. If you are into eating, there are also several places to eat in the park. 4. Enjoy :)
5. Ataturk Monument
6. Old City Marina
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,556 reviews
Descend from Kaleici to the Antalya Marina via very steep stone steps. Bring sturdy shoes so as not to slip. It's well worth the effort because the marina is a lovely crescent-shaped place where fishing boats rub shoulders with smart yachts. Watch the fishermen sell their latest catch and chat with yacht owners. A few small cafes offer coffee or tea. Look back up toward the plateau, which forms the basis of Antalya and get a special view of the landmarks from down below.
Reviewed By IMehmet - Bucharest, Romania
Ending up the Kaleici tour at the Marina, and to continue from here with a boat trip on the bay, offers you a stunning view of the walled old city in contrast with the hypnotic turquoise sea. Plenty bars for a refreshing pit stop. The whole atmosphere is relaxing even if the area is always crowded of tourists. A gem of Antalya and for sure a must do tour!
7. Guver Valley
8. Ataturk Boulevard
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 143 reviews
Atatürk Boulevard is one of the main streets in Antalya. Lined with palm trees and many benches, the boulevard is the location of many fashion and craft shops. If your budget doesn’t allow for a shopping spree, you might want to window shop or settle for a much less expensive fake Chanel bag. The boulevard is decorated with many bronze statues of modern art and street performers are often entertaining there.
Reviewed By uandeye - Lebanon, null
it is a long boulevard with lots of beautiful cafes to just sit and enjoy. also lots of shops where you can walk and shop
9. Kaputas Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 384 reviews
Reviewed By RoyaleOne - London, United Kingdom
To get to this beach is directly on the D400 coastal road, amazing views! Depending on what direction you are coming from there is a little bridge connecting 2 mountains, looks spectacular. To access the beach you must walk down around 200 stairs which isnt too bad. Disabled people in a wheelchair cannot get here which is a real shame, disabled access would be a plus. I have a disability but used a walking stick to help me which wasnt too bad. You are able to rest on a small foot bridge halfway down and admire the beauty of this beach cove. There is a changing area, toilets and showers with mirrors and a place to wash hands. There are signs to wear mask and there is sanitiser to use freely. Once you get to the beach however, there are big stones and pebbles so be careful when walking, as you get closer to the sea, it turns to sand, not the softess but nice nontheless. The sun loungers are not that comfortable so be sure to bring comfy towels to lie on for extra cushioning. It is HOT down there and the sea is crystal clear with visible tiny fish so bring a snorkel kit if you like. Its best to get there early if you want a nice view and have unobstructed views of sea, best times is to get there b4 9am so you can get a nice spot without rushing. All in all a great relaxing beautiful beach, a must visit if you are in Kalkan.
