Antalya

Turkey's largest Mediterranean resort city with a stunning old town (Kaleiçi) perched on cliffs above turquoise waters. Essential for its beaches, Düden Waterfalls, archaeological museums, and as a base for exploring the Turquoise Coast.

Things to do

• Explore Kaleiçi Old Town — Wander through narrow Ottoman-era streets lined with restored stone houses, boutique shops, and cafés overlooking the Mediterranean from the clifftop.
• Visit Düden Waterfalls — See the spectacular 40-meter waterfall cascading directly into the Mediterranean Sea at the eastern edge of the city.
• Antalya Museum Tour — Discover one of Turkey's finest archaeological museums featuring Roman statuary, mosaics, and artifacts from the ancient Lycian and Roman periods.
• Beach Day at Konyaaltı Beach — Relax on this long pebble beach backed by the Taurus Mountains with water sports, beach clubs, and easy access to the city center.
• Boat Tour of the Turquoise Coast — Take a gulet sailing excursion along the stunning Mediterranean coastline visiting hidden coves, sunken cities, and isolated beaches.
• Yivli Minaret and Fluted Mosque — Climb the distinctive 13th-century red-brick minaret in Kaleiçi for panoramic views of the old town and coastline.
• Hadrian's Gate — Pass through this beautifully preserved three-arched Roman gate from 130 AD marking the entrance to Kaleiçi's historical district.

Food to try

• Piyaz — A traditional white bean salad dressed with tahini, garlic, and lemon that is a beloved Antalya specialty, typically eaten for breakfast or as a light appetizer.
• Grilled Caught Fish (Balık Izgara) — Fresh Mediterranean sea bass, bream, or grouper grilled whole and drizzled with olive oil and lemon, served at waterfront restaurants in Kaleiçi.
• Testi Kebab — Meat and vegetable stew traditionally cooked and served in a sealed clay pot that is broken open at your table, creating an aromatic presentation.
• Manti — Tiny Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat or cheese, topped with yogurt and red pepper-infused butter, a comforting local favorite.
• Pomegranate Molasses Mezze Platter — A selection of small dishes including hummus, baba ganoush, and fresh vegetables finished with tangy pomegranate molasses, reflecting Mediterranean cuisine.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Prayer Times and Ramadan — Many establishments close or reduce hours during Ramadan, and visitors should be respectful of the five daily prayer times when visiting mosques.
• Turkish Hospitality and Tea Culture — Accept offered tea (çay) graciously in shops and restaurants as refusing can be seen as impolite; it's a social gesture rather than a transaction.
• Dress Modestly in Old Town and Religious Sites — Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees when visiting mosques, churches, and walking through the historic Kaleiçi neighborhood.
• Haggling is Expected in Markets — Bargaining over prices is customary at bazaars and with street vendors, so approach prices as starting points rather than fixed rates.