Best Things to Do in Antalya

From authentic Kaleiçi markets to buzzing Antalya nightlife, you are sure to have a ball in the Turkish city of Antalya. Known for its historical sites and stunning beaches, there is plenty to do by day and night in this Mediterranean holiday destination. With something for everyone, here’s our roundup of the best things to do in Antalya.

Excursions

We seem to fall into two categories when we’re on holiday; there are the explorers among us who can’t sit still and want to take in every bit of culture we can fit into our days, and there are the relaxers – those of us who can’t wait to leave the busy-ness of everyday life behind and enjoy the tranquil bliss of soaking up the sun. Then, there are those of us who like to mix a bit of both into our holiday. With a week or two stretching ahead of you in an exotic country, there’s usually time to fit in a few days of each if you want to.

Konyaalti Beach

What better way to enjoy this beautiful Mediterranean coast than to relax under the Beydağları Mountains on this breathtaking seven-kilometre beach? Sample the Turkish delights of Antalya Beach Park, the open-air food court, where you can admire the peaceful sea-backdrop by day, or enjoy a candlelight sunset-dinner by night.

Duden Waterfalls

Take in the double splendour of the spectacular upper and lower falls. The upper falls are naturally set within a jungle landscape, with ancient tombs engraved in the rockface beneath, while the lower falls cascade into the Mediterranean sea. The more adventurous explorers will need their walking boots for the treacherous paths to the natural caves. Picnickers could make a day of it among the lush jungle setting.

Shopping

You’ll find colourful bazaars and local street markets as you stroll along the city streets by day.

Kaleiçi

Antalya’s old town, Kaleiçi, is one of the best places for shopping in an authentic cultural atmosphere. As you pass the Ottoman-style houses along the cobbled streets, you’ll browse stalls offering local antiques, jewellery, souvenirs and clothing.

Çağlayan Bazaar

Çağlayan Bazaar is one of the biggest indoor markets in the city. It’s a great place to spot locals on their weekly shop and to explore the varieties of nuts, fish, spices and fruits and vegetables.

Antalya Kaleiçi Marina

You’ll descend the cobbled steps to the colourful Kaleiçi Marina and stroll around the crescent-shaped harbour as you browse the water-sports equipment and fashion-branded clothing. As you relax in one of the many restaurants and cafes, you’ll enjoy stunning water views; watch the fishing boats bring in their catches and admire the high-end yachts. You can even take the glass lift up to the viewing platform for panoramic views of the mountains and beaches.

Nightlife

Antalya nightlife is brimming with clubs, bars and pubs. Whether your thing is low key bars and pubs or vibrating nightclubs, Antalya’s night-scene is the place to dance the night away.

Cello Café Bar

Here you’ll find live music and dancing while you chill among the locals. You’ll sit on street tables outside this laidback bar where you can enjoy drinks under the night sky.

Tudors Pub

Tudors is another chilled, low-key pub. Enjoy a classic English pub-feel and mingle with the locals while taking in the nightly live acts.

Hangar Bar

Set among Kadir’s Tree Houses, you’ll enjoy your drink among unique natural-wood tree-house rooms and meet backpackers who congregate from different corners of the world. The party atmosphere in Hangar Bar is laid-back and cool. You’ll feel miles apart from the city of Antalya.

Up Shot Bar

In the heart of Antalya’s old town, Kaleiçi, is where you’ll find this lively, stylish bar. Here, you can listen to local DJs among the hipster crowd.

Aura Club

If spectacular nightclubs are more your scene, Aura Club, one of Antalya’s best-known party clubs, is the height of Antalya nightlife. Keep your friends close in this roaring space while you enjoy top DJs, professional dancers and flashing light shows.

Whatever you’re looking for in a Turkish holiday, you’ll find something for you in Antalya. You can explore the sites or relax on the beach by day, and chill or party in the Antalya nightlife by night. With the Mediterranean weather and gorgeous beaches, you’ll get lost in this exotic land and forget about the mundane for a week or two.