Best Things To Do In Antalya

Best things to do in Antalya

The city of Antalya is surely one of the most attractive holiday destinations in the world for its mix of remarkable history, glorious natural sights and unique atmosphere. Whatever floats your boat on a holiday (particularly floating on boats) you’ll find something to enjoy. From maze-like streets to flowing waterfalls and stadiums of ancient civilisations, the sheer breadth of activities and attractions is staggering. Make your base at Club Med Palmiye and enjoy brilliant food, entertainment and pampering as you plan for the next local adventure. We've selected the best things to do in Antalya- it's a list that seemingly has no end.

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Historical Attractions and Activities

Visit Antalya Museum

Let’s start with something world class. If you haven’t got time to visit the many historical sites in the region then enjoy the best bits of them all with a visit to Antalya Museum. It’s an award winning institution that is one of the best things to do in Antalya. It's possible to unravel the complicated history of Turkey in just a few hours while you peruse some of the incredible finds from the local area and beyond. From bronze age to Byzantium era, there are 13 exhibition halls and an open air gallery packed with over 5,000 works of art. Most famous is the ‘Hall of Gods’ display, with its ancient statues of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses. Whatever you choose to view, it’s a brilliant day out for anyone with any interest in the past.

Instagram the Yivli Minare

There are some photos that simply need to be taken when you visit certain destinations. In Antalya’s case, it’s the Yivli Minare. This minaret, a stunning example of Seljuk architecture, stands tall in the region and is based at the entrance into the old city. Built by Sultan Aladdin Keykubad in the early 13th century, this fluted minaret stands on an imposing stone base and follows a mesmerising path upwards with blue glazed tiles that stripe around a structure full of intricate details. The mosque next door has also been around since the 14th century and is still in use. You can also discover tombs, an informative museum and, of course, a well stocked tourist shop in the vicinity.

Walk through Hadrian’s Gate

Built to commemorate the visit of the Roman Emperor to Attaleia (Atalaya’s ancient name) in 130 AD, the three double arches of Hadrian’s Gate could be one of the best thinsg to do in Antalya. They form an entrance to the glorious old quarter of the town – Kaleiçi. Get up close and examine the richly decorated stonework. The ceiling probably offers the best carvings so make sure you look up when passing through. See if you can guess which one of the towers was built later than Roman times, although all three are stunning to view. If you’re looking for directions from locals make sure you call it ‘Hadriyanüs Kapısı’.

Climb up Hidirlik Kalesi

We all love a mysterious building and no-one is quite sure why Hidirlik Kalesi was built. 14 metres high and quite chubby, the best theories are that it’s either a watchtower or a lighthouse for the old harbour below it. What we do know is that it was built in either the 1st or 2nd century and played an important role in the city. The best fact is you can climb the tower to get an amazing view over the area and it's a particularly great spot to be at sunset- one of the best things to do in Antalya. The tower is surrounded by a very pleasant park with a few good cafes for refreshment and places to picnic. A festival occurs around the tower in the springtime if you time your holiday right.

Get lost in the old town

One of the best things to do in Antalya is that simply not planning anything can lead to the best experiences. We’d recommend a wander around the old town if you want to put your day in the hands of chance. It’s easy and fun to get lost in the cobbled back streets where you’ll be too busy being charmed by the buildings and people to panic about where you are. Prepare to find your favourite new restaurant or enjoy a
coffee
in one of the many hidden little squares and Google the fascinating statue you stumbled across just before lunch. Getting lost is fun in Antalya.

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Leisure Activities

Kayak at Köprülü Canyon National Park

If white water rafting is your thing then you can’t miss the chance to take a trip along the Köprülü River just outside Antalya. Half-day rafting tours are on offer for those who fancy snaking around bends and underneath craggy cliffs. The scenery is glorious and at the start of the course you'll even float under ancient Roman bridges for dramatic effect. The clear, turquoise water just makes the experience even more magical. 14km later and you’ll believe you've been on one of the best journeys it’s possible to take with a paddle in your hand. Boat rides are also available for those who fancy the beauty without the exertion and offer great value for the enjoyment you’ll experience.

Wonder at the waterfall

In a region full of natural wonders, the Duden Waterfalls are perhaps the best thing to do in Antalya. There are lower and upper waterfalls with the lower being our favourite as it splashes spectacularly over the cliffs and into the sea. You can even swim close by to where the water lands although watch out for the choppy waves. The municipal park is the scene of the higher waterfalls which are more sedate but equally splendorous as they gently cascade down a hillside. There’s also a cave behind the waterfall where you can watch the water flow by and maybe encounter a magical creature in the darker corners of the cavern.

Shop at Antalya Bazaar

Nothing beats a good retail experience on your holiday and historic Antalya Bazaar is a buzzing, authentic market packed full of tempting wares, haggling shopkeepers and charming little restaurants and cafes where you can take a break from all the noise and colour. The smell of exotic spices hangs heavy in the air as you peruse souvenirs of varying quality. There are bargains to be found and you’ll find something that speaks to you whatever the price. There are also modern shops in the Bazaar but the real charm are the ones that seem to have been there for centuries selling their wares. If you’re there with the kids make sure you keep a tight hold of them as it’s very easy to get lost amongst the mayhem, But it’s a beautiful mayhem you’ll treasure for a long time to come.

See the sights from Tunektepe Teleferik

A cable car ride promises sights others simply can’t see and Antalya has a superb skyward trip for those who can stand the heights at Tunektepe Teleferik. Regularly climbing up the 610m high Tünek Tepe hill on the westside of Antalya city there are 36 cars that hold 8 people each so you won't be queuing too long for your ride. The views as you make your way to the heavens are one of the best things to do in Antalya. The Taurus mountains have never looked so spectacular and the Gulf of Antalya stretches out like an azure carpet in front of you. When you reach the top you’ll find a fun rotating restaurant where you can fully enjoy the views. Visit in the evening and it turns into a nightclub although don't expect to easily stumble home afterwards.

Take a bath

If the luxury spa at the Club Med resort simply isn’t enough for you then try an authentic hammam in the city itself. Forget what you know about saunas at home, if you choose the right hammam you can expect a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere, superb steam and sauna rooms, a pool to melt away in and a massage that will undo years of damage to your body. Many now offer extra services such as oil and aromatherapy massages, facials and manicures. The Turkish have perfected this kind of thing after thousands of years of practice and you can benefit from this wisdom.

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Discover Club Med

Club Med Turkey

Experience the ultimate all-inclusive sun holiday at Club Med in Turkey, whether you choose the vibrant Club Med Palmiye , the premium Club Med Palmiye Hotel , or the serene Club Med Bodrum Palmiye . Each destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with top-notch accommodations, a variety of gourmet dining options, and an array of activities for all ages. Enjoy water sports, fitness classes, and cultural excursions, all included in your stay. Families will appreciate the dedicated kids' clubs, providing engaging and educational programs for children of all ages, ensuring a memorable holiday for everyone.