
A 14th-century explorer Ibn Battuta, often dubbed the Muslim Marco Polo, declared Antalya to be one of the most beautiful cities he'd ever seen. Modern day visitors would find it hard to dispute his claim. Nestled on the eastern edge of the Mediterranean, Antalya rests on a fertile plain, framed by towering, often snow-dusted mountains. For those looking to add some cultural depth to their beach holiday, Antalya offers a dive into its ancient history. Just north of the city, the Karain cavern houses remnants of Turkey's oldest known settlement. The city’s diverse past is vividly on display, bearing the marks of the Romans, Byzantines and Seljuks. Present-day Antalya marries the charm of a modern metropolis with the quaint appeal of an old-world town. Wander into Kaleiçi to discover the authentic Antalya — an enchanting blend of petite mosques, and a mishmash of both revamped and time-worn Ottoman wooden houses. The harbour, Yat Liman, is a haven of cosy cafés and bars, where you can unwind while taking in the lively boat life in the nearby bay.
Urban: 1.39 million (2025) Metro: 2.6 million (2025)
Turkish Lira, TL1 = 100 kuruş
112
Banks are normally open on weekdays from 8:30 am to noon. In tourist areas, they reopen after lunch, from 1:30pm until about 5pm. ATMs are plentiful. Shops are open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30am until 1pm, and again from 2pm until 7pm.










































The best time to visit Antalya is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for exploring.
Don't miss the ancient city of Perge, the stunning Düden Waterfalls, the historic Kaleiçi district, and the beautiful beaches of Konyaaltı and Lara.
Public transportation in Antalya includes buses and trams, which are convenient for getting around the city. Taxis and car rentals are also available for more flexibility.
Be sure to try local specialties such as Piyaz (bean salad), grilled fish, and Kabak Tatlısı (pumpkin dessert) for a taste of Antalya's cuisine.
A stay of 3 to 4 days is ideal to explore Antalya's main attractions, enjoy its beaches, and take a day trip to nearby historical sites.
Consider day trips to the ancient ruins of Termessos, the stunning Saklıkent Gorge, and the picturesque town of Kemer for a diverse experience.
Kaleiçi, the old town, offers charming boutique hotels and a historic atmosphere, while Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach are great for seaside resorts.
