45 Things to do in Antalya

There's something for everyone when it comes to finding things to do in Antalya. And you certainly don't have to look far! If you want a relaxing holiday to Turkey for couples, groups or with the whole family, then take advantage of the endless stretches of beach on offer to you right on your doorstep, all 400 miles of them!

But if you prefer to keep busy while on holiday, you'll be spoilt for choice by the activities and sights in and around Antalya. The area's wealth of history also means that you could spend days on end visiting all the fascinating sites and ruins; from the city's old town to the Temple of Apollo in Side. Then there are picturesque harbours to see and excellent dining experiences to be had throughout the city. The possibilities are endless. Here's what you'll want to add to your Antalya To-Do list.

Beaches

Visiting the beaches should be top of your things to do in Antalya. With sandy shorelines, blue waters and forest-blanketed slopes, the Turquoise Coast is Turkey at its most beautiful. The buzzing Lara Beach resort lined with five-star All Inclusive hotels, parasols and sun loungers. Its Blue Flag status makes it ideal for kids, while the water sports centre offers waterskiing, kayaking and pedalos.

Konyaalti Beach is popular with locals too, so you know it's worth a visit! Simply jump on the tram heading west and you'll find this piece of Mediterranean paradise at the last stop. You'll find banana boat rides, a waterslide park, and plenty of space to lay your towel. The rocky yet beautiful Memerli Beach is also worth a visit, and is only a short walk from the old city of Antalya.

Golf

Thanks to its excellent courses and year-round sunshine, Antalya's golf resorts have international appeal. Within 35 minutes of Antalya is the town of Belek, where the number of golfers visiting the high quality All Inclusive resorts now closely rivals Portugal's Algarve. Golf is now Belek's most popular activity and playing a round here will be a highlight of any Antalya holiday.

Historical sights

The area's wealth of history means that you could spend days on end visiting all the fascinating sites and ruins, from the city's old town to the Temple of Apollo in Side. Start with a stroll through Antalya's historic district of Kaleiçi. Take a wander through Kaleiçi's streets and you'll be greeted by old Ottoman houses that have been converted into boutique hotels and shops. At the base of the slope you'll find the cliff-backed Roman harbour, which is now a marina for yachts and excursion boats. Enjoy the harbour views at one of the many tea gardens, bars, restaurants, and cafés that surround it. Close by you'll find the monumental Hadrian's Gate too.

Shopping

There's plenty of shopping in and around the town, making a spot of retail therapy a must on your list of things to do in Antalya. For a similar shopping experience to that of home, visit the modern shopping malls. The largest shopping mall in Antalya, Terracity, has over 150 stores selling designer and local brands. There's also Migros MMM, a massive Swiss international mall chain that's popular with locals. For local shopping and more traditional finds, head to the main bazaar for Turkish sweets, jewellery, leather goods, and handmade crafts.

 

Things to do

Best hotels in Antalya