Location: Antalya
Top Things to do in Antalya
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The 10 Best Things to do Good for Big Groups 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. Antalya Muzesi
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,259 reviews
The museum contains 13 display halls with exhibits from the Paleolithic Age to Ottoman times. A special children's section offers activities to stimulate an interest in antiques and museums.
Reviewed By Marianchetotosheva - Sofia, Bulgaria
Great museum, filled with beautifully preserved and restored ancient statues. Wonderfully arranged halls, good information about the exhibited samples. I recommend.
3. 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!
4. 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.
5. 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 :)
6. Termessos
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 996 reviews
Approximately 34 kilometers northwest of Antalya lies Termessos and the beautiful Güllük Dagi National Park. The ancient Psidian city is built on a mountain platform, surrounded by pine woods and an abundance of rare plants. It’s one of the best preserved historical sites of Turkey and, due to its isolated location, an oasis of calm and tranquility.
Reviewed By adamdE3606HO - Chelmsford, United Kingdom
This is one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. If you are thinking of doing something a little more cultural while you're in Turkey - do THIS!
7. Perge Ancient City
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,743 reviews
The historical site of Perge, 18 kilometers east of Turkey, holds the vast remains of what was once the most propserous city of the ancient world. Enter by passing through the arch of the Roman Gate to be greeted by an amphitheater, the Hellenistic Gate (quite well preserved) and richly decorated remains of the city wall and much more.
Reviewed By Metaldread
Perge is great. In fact it was captured by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. Then it became a has-been when the river serving the bustling port silted up leaving the harbour 12k from the sea, about as useful as a lighthouse in the desert. The Romans left and nothing else happened until excavations began in 1947 and this gem of a city was slowly revealed. Excavations and reconstruction work continue to this day. I last visited in 2011 since when the North Gate, a major East-West colonaded street and a nymphonium have been opened along with access to the Acropolis on top of the hill. It boasts a Triumphal Arch, 14k seat amphitheatre and 12k seat stadium, marble-columned colonades, decorative fountains and a waterway cascading down the main street. It's better appointed than most present-day High Streets. Highly recommended if you are in Antalya.
8. Lower Duden Waterfalls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,244 reviews
The Duden Waterfalls are actually two separate natural attractions within the City of Antalya. Upper & Lower Waterfalls.. Lower Duden Waterfall is a spectacular cascade that occurs as the Duden River spills off the Antalya City cliffs into the sea. You can feel the droplets of amazing Duden Waterfalls ending at the mediterranean, swim nearby and enjoy the mesmerizing sightseeings of the city, mountains and forests by the Antalya Shores. Shoot some attractive photos to share with friends and family on a daily private boat trip. The Upper Duden Waterfalls are a series of small cascades in a tranquil municipal park. When visiting the upper falls within the park, don't miss climbing down a spiral staircase that leads into a cave behind the waterfalls. This experience affords fabulous views through a curtain of falling water.
Reviewed By VinsLove - London, United Kingdom
It's a really stunning place, either if you decide to visit it from the cliff (there's a nice spot where you can take great pictures) or by boat or even renting a kayak (if you're hotel is nearby - like it was mine, Lara Hotel) its definitely a unique spot around Antalya! :)
9. Kursunlu Waterfalls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,480 reviews
Reviewed By inflexible85 - Canakkale, Turkey
Kurşunlu Waterfall National Park is a natural wonder where you can breathe and cool off in a hot city like Antalya, where you will find peace in many shades of green. It is easy to access and there is no parking problem. You buy tickets for a small fee and enter the park. A few cafes welcome you as soon as you enter. From there, you go down the stairs and you will face with the wonderful waterfall. If you want, you can pass behind the poured water through natural tunnels and you can touch the water. It is said that the water level changes from time to time. The event doesn't stop here after seeing the waterfall. You continue walking with the paths and bridges formed in a 2-kilometer-long lush canyon and finally return to the place where you entered again. In the meantime, while walking in the canyon, you will also find an excellent cafe. You should definitely see the Kursunlu Waterfall.
10. 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!
