If Antalya is associated exclusively with snow-white hotels and all-inclusive vacations, then it's time to do something about it. Warm people, winding streets, traditional cuisine, the scent of blooming orange trees, seagulls, the sound of the Mediterranean Sea, and so much more—this is also Antalya. I invite you to spend 24 hours with me in this enchanting city.
Nostalgic tram and AntalyaKart
It's impossible not to notice these red beauties cruising around the city. They say that these trams were gifted by Nuremberg in the 1970s, but inside, you can feel a distinctly Turkish vibe. Depending on the tram number, the routes run along the coast from the Archaeological Museum, Konyaalti Beach, and the city park to the Old Town — an ideal tourist route, and on public transport too! By the way, you can take trams (but not nostalgic ones) to the airport (line T1A) and to the ancient city of Perge.
You will need an AntalyaKart to travel on public transport. The card can be purchased from special vending machines and kiosks, as well as at the airport. You can find an app of the same name on Google Play and the Apple Store, but judging by the reviews, this option is more suitable for locals who can top up their balance through a Turkish bank. By the way, you can also pay for your trip with a contactless card by tapping it on the validator in the vehicle.
Konyaalti Promenade and Beach
If you enjoy long walks along the sea, this is the place for you! Konyaaltı is not only a city beach, but also a 10-kilometer-long promenade with a perfect combination of running and cycling paths, recreation areas, cafes, and bars. You can escape the bright sun in the green area of the Mediterranean City Park (Akdeniz Kent Parkı). By the way, a few words about the beach: be prepared for large pebbles and crystal clear water. For a sandy beach, head to Lara Plajı.
Archaeological Museum
After World War I, Antalya found itself under Italian military occupation. During this time, Italian archaeologists began to remove archaeological finds discovered in the central areas of the city. The attempt to steal history failed, and thanks to the sultan's advisor at the time, the treasures remained in their native land. It was these events that led to the creation of the museum.
With 13 exhibition halls and 25,000 to 30,000 exhibits in the collection, there is certainly plenty to see. I was most inspired by the Byzantine mosaics and iconography, coin samples, and ethnographic halls. After the cultural program, I suggest staying in the museum courtyard for coffee in the excellent company of the cutest cats and important peacocks.
Kaleiçi
The old town in Turkish is Kaleiçi, which means "inside the fortress." About 2,000 years ago, Attalus II, king of the ancient city of Pergamon, chose this land to build a new polis. Antalya was named in his honor (and before that, even more obviously, Attalia).
Wandering through the labyrinths of Kaleiçi is a pleasure in itself! Cozy coffee shops and boutique hotels are located in distinctive Ottoman interiors, and impressive murals adorn the walls of the "fortress." The official top attractions of Kaleiçi are: the Hadrian's Gate, the Hüdürlük Tower, the Yivli Minaret, and the Clock Tower — more details about them below.
Hadrian's Gate
The monumental Hadrian's Gate (Hadrian Kapısı) is a kind of triumphal arch dating back to 130 BC. Erected in honor of the visit of the Roman emperor Hadrian, the gate became one of the main entrances to Kaleiçi. Three marble arches, columns, sculptures, bas-reliefs, and a noble coat of arms — such pomp is undoubtedly impressive. It is also interesting that the road under the gate still has thousand-year-old potholes from the carts of that time.
Hydyrlik Tower
The Hıdırlık Tower (Hıdırlık Kulesi) was built by the ancient Romans in the second century AD. However, its exact purpose is difficult to determine. According to one theory, it was a defensive bastion. According to another theory, it could have been a lighthouse. Recent archaeological discoveries suggest that it may have been a mausoleum.
Yivli Minaret
The 38-meter Yivli Minaret (Yivliminare Cami) serves as a landmark for visitors to Kaleiçi. It can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. It is one of the earliest examples of Islamic architecture in the city, dating back to 1230. "Yivli" translates from Turkish as "grooved," a quality given to the minaret by its red brick mosaic covering. Before its reconstruction, the mosaic was made of dark blue and turquoise tiles. The mosque can be visited as a museum to view its religious collection.
Saat Kuleshi
The clock tower, also known as Saat Kulesi, was built in 1901. Its unique square shape and elegant clock have become one of the city's landmarks. The reason for its construction was the 25th year of Abdul Hamid II's reign. The tower was built of rough stone, and its foundation includes the old part of the city walls. Interestingly, there are clock faces on each side of the tower. Above them are arches and battlements made in authentic Arabic style. At night, Saat Kulesi is beautifully illuminated.
Pasha Mosque
What would Turkey be without its bazaars? In Kaleiçi, you will find bazaars selling carpets, lamps, spices, tea sets, and ceramics. Paşa Cami is one such shopping street. On the way, I also came across an artist's studio and couldn't leave without buying some original postcards. Your support will be greatly appreciated by the artists.
Old Port (Antalya Kaleiçi Yacht Marina)
While in Kaleiçi, don't forget to visit the Old Port (also known as the Roman Port), located nearby, as well as another city beach, Mermerli. The port was actively used from the 2nd century BC until the 20th century AD, when a new complex was built.
There are many yachts of various sizes scattered along the harbor. They will take you to the nearest attractions, such as the Dudeni Waterfalls, caves, and Turtle Island. You can take a sea trip for an hour or go on an adventure for the whole day. Food and drinks are provided, as expected.
Duden Waterfalls (Aşağı Düden Şelalesi)
To see the Duden Waterfalls, you don't have to buy a boat trip. You can get there by public transport, which takes a good 40 minutes from the Old Town. An excellent alternative in this case would be an electric scooter (for example, from Beam, Bin Bin or Marti).
Observation decks
You can also take the panoramic elevator down to the Old Port from the beautiful observation deck at Cumhuriyet Meydanı (Republic Square ). The observation deck offers a wonderful view of the city! Karaalioglu Park offers a magnificent view of the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains.
Another cool observation deck with an elevator is located in Konyaaltı ( Konyaaltı Varyant Büyük Seyir Terası). Incidentally, scenes for Guy Ritchie's film "The Gentlemen" were filmed at the elevator on Republic Square and in Kaleiçi in general.
Bonus: 10-minute cable car ride Tunektepe Teleferik will offer breathtaking views of the sea and the Taurus Mountains. A standard ticket costs $15, and children under 6 years old can ride for free. Pets are also welcome on board.
Seals
In Turkey, cats are treated with special respect. Some say that according to Islamic traditions, these animals are believed to protect against evil forces. Others claim that for Turks, cats symbolize good luck and happiness.
It's hard for me to say whether this is true or not, but I can assure you that the conditions for homeless cats here are radically different from those in Northern Europe. Cat houses and feeding stations are built for them, and they receive medical care. Don't be afraid to get new furry friends.
Traditional cuisine
I strongly advise you not to ignore the local cuisine. A Turkish breakfast will help you start your day right. It is not just a meal, but a whole gastronomic experience worthy of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status (currently on the shortlist for this prestigious title).
Variations differ from region to region, but you can expect a selection of delicacies such as jams and fresh rolls, cheeses and olives, smoked meats, eggs, vegetables, and, of course, Turkish tea.
In addition to breakfast, I recommend trying kebab (trust me, after this you won't be able to bring yourself to buy "kebab" in other European countries), Turkish "pizza" pide (Pideci) and/or lahmacun and mize. The Turkish "cookbook" is truly enormous. Don't be afraid to experiment and enjoy every bite.
Booking a vacation in Turkey doesn't have to be limited to the confines of a five-star hotel. I hope this guide will inspire you to get more out of Antalya.
