Antalya, Turkey-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Old Town

  • Morning: Arrive at Antalya Airport and take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel in the city center.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Kaleici (Old Town), a historic walled town with narrow streets and charming old houses. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the Hıdrellez Street and see the ancient gates of the city.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Turkish food at Mehmet’s Restaurant, known for its delicious kebabs and local specialties.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hadrian’s Gate, a 2nd-century Roman gate that marks the entrance to Old Town.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Fisherman’s Wharf, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 2: Beach Day and Sunken City

  • Morning: Spend some time relaxing on Konyaaltı Beach, one of the city’s most popular beaches. You can also rent a beach umbrella or take a leisurely walk along the promenade.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Sunken City (Yatlimanı), an ancient city that was submerged underwater due to earthquakes. Take a boat tour to see the ruins and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Evening: Have dinner at The Ottoman Restaurant, which serves traditional Turkish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 3: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Antalya Museum, which features an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations, including the Lycians, Romans, and Greeks.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Yivli Minare (Fluted Minaret), a 13th-century minaret that is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the nearby Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque), a beautiful mosque with intricate stone carvings.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Pera Restaurant, which serves delicious Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.

Day 4: Waterfalls and Scenic Views

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Düden Waterfalls, a stunning natural wonder that features two separate waterfalls. You can take a boat tour or hike to see the waterfalls up close.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the Tahtali Mountain summit, which is accessible by cable car.
  • Evening: Return to Antalya and have dinner at The Blue Mosque Restaurant, which serves traditional Turkish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 5: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping at the Kaleici Bazaar, a bustling marketplace where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing.
  • Afternoon: Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or spa treatment at one of Antalya’s many spas.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Sunset Restaurant, which serves delicious seafood and has stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 6: History and Ruins

  • Morning: Visit the Perge Ancient City, a well-preserved ancient city that features impressive ruins, including a theater and an amphitheater.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Aspendos Ancient Theatre, a beautifully preserved ancient theater that hosts cultural events during the summer months.
  • Evening: Have dinner at The Aspendos Restaurant, which serves traditional Turkish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring Antalya’s historic center before departing for the airport.
  • Afternoon: Take a taxi or shuttle bus to the airport and depart from Antalya Airport.

Hotel Suggestions

  • Hotel Ceylan Inn: A comfortable 4-star hotel in the heart of Old Town, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Hotel Su: A modern 5-star hotel located near Konyaaltı Beach, with a rooftop pool and restaurant.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available throughout the city, but be prepared to haggle over prices.
  • Shuttle buses: Run from the airport to the city center, as well as between popular tourist attractions.
  • Public transportation: Buses and dolmuş (minibuses) are available, but can be confusing for tourists.

Tips and Essentials

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other sacred sites.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is a way of life in Turkey, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Try local cuisine: Turkish food is delicious and varied, with many restaurants serving traditional dishes.
  • Stay hydrated: Antalya can get hot during the summer months, so be sure to drink plenty of water.

Other Things to Know

  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Turkish lira (TRY) is the local currency.
  • Safety: Antalya is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Additional Activities

  • Paragliding: Take a paragliding tour from Tahtali Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Snorkeling or scuba diving: Explore the underwater world at Konyaaltı Beach or other nearby beaches.
  • Hiking: Hike to the summit of Tahtali Mountain or explore the scenic trails in the surrounding countryside.