Ancient City of Perge

Situated approximately 18 kilometres east of Antalya, Perge (also known as Perga) was once home to the Hittites around 1500 BC, before falling under Greek colonisation post the Trojan War. The extensive ruins showcase a Roman theatre, a vast stadium, and column-lined streets harking back to the era when the Apostle Paul is believed to have made a stopover during one of his missions. Immerse yourself in the timeless tales this historic site whispers.

• Web:

  muze.gov.tr/muze-detay?sectionId=PRG01&distId=PRG

• Address:

  Perge Antik Kenti

• Subway:

  Take a local bus or dolmuş

Antalya Aquarium

Antalya Aquarium offers a chance to explore the underwater world, with thousands of different marine species on display. Feeling adventurous? You can even swim with sharks and rays. Fancy a spot of winter in the middle of summer? Visit 'Snow World' and make snowballs from real snow. The highlight of the visit is the world's largest underwater tunnel — 131 metres long and 3 metres wide.

• Web:

  www.antalyaaquarium.com

• E-mail:

  info@antalyaaquarium.com

• Address:

  Arapsuyu, Dumlupınar Bulvari 502, Konyaaltı/Antalya

• Phone:

  +90 242 245 65 65

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9am–11pm

Antalya Archeology Museum

The Antalya Archaeology Museum hosts a remarkable array of exhibits, from perfectly preserved Roman statues and impressive sarcophagi to remnants of the theatre in Perge. Nestled amongst the icons, discover a jawbone alleged to belong to Santa Claus, born in Patara and buried in Demre. The Museum also showcases a captivating collection of traditional folk costumes and exquisite rugs, further enriching your cultural exploration.

• Web:

  muze.gov.tr/muze-detay?SectionId=ANT01&DistId=ANT

• Address:

  Antalya Müzesi, Konyaaltı Caddesi 88, Muratpaşa/Antalya

• Phone:

  +90 242 238 56 88

• Opening hours:

  Daily 8:30am–8pm

Aspendos

Located about 19 kilometres east of Antalya, you'll find Aspendos. This remarkable theatre is the only one from antiquity that still has its stage structure intact. Originally capable of accommodating 20,000 spectators, its survival is credited to the Seljuks, who repurposed it as a residence. In the 1920s, Kemal Atatürk, revered as the 'Father of the Turks', decided to restore the theatre. Today, Aspendos plays host to major musical events, perpetuating its legacy as a cultural epicentre.

• Address:

  Aspendos, Antalya

• Subway:

  An excursion bus or dolmuş is the best way to get to Aspendos.

Belek

Situated en route to Alanya, Belek is a charming seaside resort town. Known for its premium golf courses, it offers a perfect getaway for those keen on tee times. Beyond golf, Belek boasts a host of upscale hotels and restaurants to explore.

• Web:

  www.visitbelek.com/en

Beşkonak & Köprülü Canyon

North of Antalya and Alanya, the Köprülü canyon and Beşkonak is a delight for all senses. It hosts ancient ruins, trout farms, and offers a welcome retreat from the coastal heat. If you're game for an adrenaline rush, why not experience the thrill of white water rafting in this lush landscape?

• Web:

  nationalparksofturkey.com/koprulu-canyon-national-park

• Address:

  Bozyaka, Manavgat/Antalya