Unveiling the Jewel of the Turkish Riviera:
The Comprehensive Antalya Travel Guide

The historical journey through Antalya starts with the Antalya Museum, an impressive venue housing over 5000 works of art and archaeological finds. From Paleolithic Age relics to Ottoman Era artifacts, this museum offers a comprehensive overview of Antalya's timeline.

Kaleiçi, the old city, awaits you with its narrow cobblestone streets, meticulously restored Ottoman houses, and numerous small squares. It's an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the bustling city. Each corner in Kaleiçi tells a story about the town's rich past, transporting you back in time.

Hadrian's Gate, a grand triumphal arch built in the name of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, stands as a gateway to the old city. Its ornate marble columns and intricately carved decorations leave every visitor in awe of the Roman architectural prowess.

Leaving the city center, make your way to the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. Perge, once the capital of Pamphylia, is home to an array of Roman architecture including a stadium, a theatre, and extensive Roman baths. Aspendos, on the other hand, amazes with its perfectly preserved ancient theater, hosting yearly performances to this day.

Lastly, be sure to visit Phaselis, an ancient Lycian city set amidst a beautiful national park. With its stunning beaches, forested hiking trails, and well-preserved ruins, Phaselis offers a blend of history and nature.

As the sun sets, Antalya transforms into a lively hub of entertainment. From bustling bars and clubs to tranquil beachfront lounges, there's something for everyone when the night falls in Antalya.

The heart of Antalya's nightlife is the old town, Kaleiçi. Its narrow streets are lined with a myriad of bars and clubs offering various types of music and ambiance. Some, like the famous Club 29, even offer stunning views over the marina.

For a more tranquil evening, the beach clubs along Lara and Konyaaltı Beaches offer a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a cocktail as you listen to the sound of waves and gaze at the star-filled sky. Some of these clubs also host live music performances, adding to the unique experience.

If you're a fan of live performances, Antalya doesn't disappoint. Visit the Aspendos Ancient Theater during the summer months for an unforgettable open-air concert or opera performance. Alternatively, Antalya's State Opera and Ballet and the Haşim İşcan Culture Center host a variety of shows throughout the year.

Lastly, Antalya's nightlife is not only about entertainment. Many restaurants and rooftop bars offer late-night dining with spectacular views of the city. Here, you can savor the local cuisine while taking in the enchanting night panorama of Antalya.

Antalya is not just about natural beauty and outdoor adventures; it's also rich in culture and history. From ancient ruins to modern art, the city offers numerous opportunities to immerse oneself in its vibrant culture.

Start your cultural journey at the Antalya Museum, one of Turkey's largest and most visited museums. It houses a vast collection of artifacts from the surrounding region, spanning from the Stone Age to Byzantine times.

Next, visit the historic old town, Kaleiçi. Wander through its narrow streets, discover the charming Ottoman houses, and visit the iconic Hadrian's Gate and Yivli Minare.

Art lovers should head to the Antalya Cultural Center, which regularly hosts exhibitions, concerts, and festivals. Also, don't miss the chance to visit some of the city's contemporary art galleries.

Lastly, to truly understand Antalya's culture, take part in a traditional Turkish night. Enjoy folk music and dance performances, taste local delicacies, and even learn how to make Turkish coffee. It's an experience you'll remember long after your trip ends.

One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food, and Antalya is no exception. Known for its rich and diverse cuisine, Antalya offers a culinary journey that is as enticing as its scenic beauty.

Begin your gastronomic adventure with a traditional Turkish breakfast. Try 'menemen', a delicious scramble of eggs, tomatoes, and peppers, and don't forget to taste the local olives and cheeses.

For lunch, head to a local 'lokanta' (eatery) and sample 'pide', a Turkish pizza, or a hearty 'döner kebab'. If you're near the coast, enjoy a plate of fresh 'balık ekmek' (fish sandwich), a popular street food.

In the evening, indulge in a 'meze' platter, a selection of small dishes that are perfect for sharing. Pair it with a glass of 'raki', a traditional anise-flavoured spirit often enjoyed with meals.

Finally, don't leave Antalya without trying some local desserts. 'Baklava', a sweet pastry filled with nuts and soaked in syrup, is a must-try, as is 'lokma', a deep-fried dough ball drenched in sweet syrup.