Visit Antalya: Popular Beach & Historic Location in Türkiye

Nestling on the Mediterranean Sea, Antalya is known as one of the best summer destinations in Türkiye (formerly Turkey). In fact, its beautiful coastline is becoming famous around the world. While the city is known for its gorgeous beaches, there is so much more to Antalya than meets the tourist’s eye. Its historical center and ancient Roman ruins are truly fascinating, as well as its cobblestone streets and lively harbor.

Where in Türkiye is Antalya?

This popular beach destination is located on Türkiye’s southwest coast, nestling between the looming Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. While originally, it was the getaway place for locals in Türkiye, international travelers are also flocking to its beautiful shores. While the beaches are idyllic, let’s take a look at other must-see attractions in Antalya.

Kaleiçi – Antalya’s Old Town

Kaleiçi nestles between the beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean and the city center of Antalya. This charming Old Town, with its winding cobblestone streets, quaint and historical architecture, contrasts with trendy restaurants and cafés.

While Old Town is fairly small, it is packed with fascinating historical attractions, such as Hadrian’s Gate, the Yivli Minaret and Hidirlik Tower. When visiting Antalya in summer, enjoy an early morning walk through Kaleiçi before the heat becomes uncomfortable, and while the light is ideal for photography.

Enter Hadrian’s Gate

When entering the Old Town, you head through Hadrian’s Gate, which is the only remaining entrance to the older part of town. It was built in the name of the Roman emperor in 130 AD and is now one of Antalya’s most important historical sites.

Looking at the gate itself, the towers on either side also include architectural elements from other periods in history. For instance, on the upper part of the Northern Tower, an Arabic inscription can be seen that dates back to the reign of Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat.

Enjoy the sunset in Kaleiçi Harbor

After a day of exploring the Old Town, experience sunset in the beautiful picture-postcard harbor. The harbor is located in the heart of the Old Town and is a lively place to be on a summer evening. Whether you watch the sunset from a trendy bar or take an evening stroll around the harbor, this is the perfect place to experience a colorful sunset.

Head to Konyaalti Beach

For those with the beach in mind, Konyaalti Beach is conveniently located a short walk from Antalya Old Town. The extensive beach might be pebbly, but it is still an ideal place for lying in the sun and swimming in crystal-clear water.

Meanwhile, Konyaalti Beach features a lively promenade with many restaurants and cafés, as well as public shower facilities and other amenities. Moreover, the beach offers stunning views of the Taurus Mountains on the horizon.

Visit the Lower Düden Waterfall

What better on a hot summer day than to visit the beautiful Lower Düden Waterfall? The water flows from a towering cliff down 130 feet directly into the sea. While the rush of the water is a beautiful sight, gazing at it makes you feel refreshed.

However, Lower Düden Waterfall is one of two beautiful waterfalls connected by a stream. This makes the Upper Düden Waterfall also well worth seeing.

Antalya has all this and more to offer travelers this summer. Find out more by visiting the city’s official tourism website.