Antalya City Guide — Attractions, Food & Tips

Antalya City GuideWhere ancient ruins meet turquoise Mediterranean waters, a sun-drenched coastal city blending Roman history, Ottoman charm, and modern beach resort culture.Key Facts

Country: Turkey

Currency: TRY (Turkish Lira)

Language: Turkish

Time Zone: UTC+3

Best Time to Visit: April–June

Top Places to Visit

Kaleiçi (Old Town) — A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era old town with narrow cobblestone lanes, restored mansions, boutique hotels, and the iconic Hadrian's Gate marking its entrance.

Düden Waterfalls — The Lower Düden Waterfall plunges 40 metres directly into the Mediterranean from dramatic cliffs. Best viewed from a boat tour along the coast.

Antalya Museum — One of Turkey's finest museums, housing stunning finds from Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos including sarcophagi, mosaics, and the Gallery of the Gods.

Hadrian's Gate — A beautifully preserved triple-arched Roman gate built in 130 AD to honour Emperor Hadrian's visit. The only remaining entrance in the old city walls.

Aspendos Theatre — A remarkably intact 15,000-seat Roman theatre from the 2nd century AD, still used for concerts and the annual Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival.

Local Food

Şiş Kebab — Marinated chunks of lamb or chicken grilled over charcoal on skewers. Served with flatbread, grilled tomatoes, and spicy peppers — the definitive Turkish grill.

Piyaz — Antalya's signature dish — a white bean salad dressed with tahini, vinegar, and olive oil, served alongside şiş kebab. A regional specialty you won't find elsewhere.

Levrek (Sea Bass) — Fresh Mediterranean sea bass grilled whole or baked in salt crust. Best enjoyed at harbourside restaurants in the old town marina.

Serpme Kahvaltı — A lavish Turkish spread breakfast with cheeses, olives, tomatoes, eggs, honey, kaymak (clotted cream), fresh bread, and endless glasses of çay (tea).

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