Antalya holidays

The Pearl of the Mediterranean and one of Turkey’s best holiday hotspots, Antalya combines natural beauty, buzzing beaches, and historical gems with something for everyone to enjoy. Not to mention all the amenities you could wish for a fuss-free holiday. Whether you visit with family, friends, or your romantic partner, there are many ways to enjoy your Antalya holiday that are sure to keep everyone smiling.

Can’t decide where to start? At Lara Beach, east of the city, gentle waves lap along the long, sandy shore. There are many hotels to choose from here, including beautiful beach resorts where guests can swim in the crystal-clear Gulf of Antalya.

Immerse yourself in Antalya’s history when you choose the quiet beach village of Side, 65km east of the city. This resort combines unspoilt sandy beaches and waterfront restaurants with the imposing Temples of Apollo and Athena, a must for history enthusiasts. Add in a quaint harbour and all the shopping you could wish for, and you’ve discovered a holiday for everyone.

Pleasure-seekers will be spoilt for choice when visiting Belek, a small but glamorous beach town 35km east of Antalya. Belek is famed for its world-class golf courses and luxury hotels, an ideal choice if you prefer the finer things in life.

Things to do

Antalya holidays offer lots to see and do, including plenty of family attractions, historical sites, and peaceful escapes that appeal to everyone. Visit the triple arches of Hadrian’s Gate or the fortified city walls to immerse yourself in the area’s history. Why not visit the Roman sites of Aspendos and Termessos for even more ancient inspiration? Alternatively, explore centuries gone-by at the Archaeological Museum, with elaborately carved coffins and impressive statues of gods from the ancient city of Perge.

For fun and excitement, enjoy adrenaline-pumping water sports on sunny beaches all along the coast. If you’re travelling in search of excellent local food, sample the catch of the day in one of many seafood restaurants around the natural yacht harbour.

If you’re travelling with the family, there’s plenty for them to do on your holiday too. Kids love Minicity, where miniature replicas of Turkey’s best-known landmarks are both enchanting and educational. From the fairground fun of Aktur Park to the water rides, slides, and flumes in the nearby Troy Aqua Park, great days out are easy to find in Antalya.

Discover plenty of shopping hotspots and traditional markets too. Antalya is home to many beautiful treasures; practice your bargaining at a Turkish market and return to your hotel with something exciting in-hand. All that sightseeing and shopping can be tiring. To return to relaxation, why not visit a 15th-century Turkish hammam for an authentic spa treatment?

Beaches and resorts

Antalya is home to many bustling upmarket resorts, making it ideal for a luxury Turkish holiday. Amongst these resorts are Belek, Lara Beach, Side, and Alanya. Lara Beach is the city’s longest and most popular beach. Here you’ll find that many hotels have their own private section of soft golden sand, a perfect place to relax without distraction.

For convenient access to Antalya, Konyaalti Beach is the closest to the city centre and a favourite amongst visitors and locals. Belek is an excellent choice if you’re searching for luxury. This glamorous resort is home to some of the area’s most beautiful beaches and plenty of fine dining and nightlife. Antalya boasts over 400 miles of fantastic beaches and resorts to choose from, so you’re sure to find a destination that suits you.

Ancient history

There’s more to Antalya than just being an excellent beach destination. The city and surrounding area are dotted with countless historical sites and ruins that are well worth taking the time to explore. Founded as a seaport in the 2nd century BC, Antalya has seen Roman, Byzantine, Seljuq, and Ottoman rule.

Discover Antalya city’s ancient past as you wander the old town’s narrow streets, surrounded by ancient walls restored during Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuq periods. Some of the most iconic historical landmarks in Antalya include a mosque dating back to 1250, and a former-Byzantine church which houses the archaeological museum today.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Antalya is exciting, with plenty of live entertainment, bars, and clubs catering to every taste. If you’re searching for culture when the sun goes down, the Antalya State Opera and Ballet has you covered. Settle into the 2,000-year-old theatre and enjoy an evening of world-class performance in a unique historical setting.

Antalya’s bars are always bustling, but they’re incredibly vibrant in the summer months when you can find plenty of packed-out spots to quench your thirst. Enjoy sunset cocktails overlooking the sea, or catch your favourite team in one of Antalya’s many sports bars. Live music and Turkish taverns are plentiful, so you can experience Antalya like a local and create memories to last a lifetime. If you’re in the mood for something a little less noisy, head to Castle Café, a peaceful gem and a great alternative to some of the busier spots around the city.

Food & Drink

Antalya’s cuisine offers something for everyone. So whether you’re a picky eater or a dedicated foodie, you’re sure to find a meal that satisfies your tastes. Local specialities abound in central Antalya, where fresh produce is often the star of the show. For breakfast, feast on organic eggs, local olives, cheese, and traditional pastries, all washed down with steaming-hot Turkish tea.

Fresh seafood is often on the menu in this harbour city, so be sure to order the catch of the day if it suits your palate. Turkish cuisine also often features grilled meat, so whether you prefer the surf or the turf, you’ll have plenty to choose from in many of the city’s restaurants.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations including Alanya | Beldibi | Belek | Goynuk | Kemer | Konakli | Lara Beach | Side