How Many Days In Antalya Is The Right Amount?

If you’re looking for stunning beaches, culture, history, amazing food, and friendly locals, look no further than Antalya. Discover how many days in Antalya you will need to see the best sites.

Deciding On What Is Enough Time In Antalya

This is one of the most famous summer destinations in the country, and it’s also pretty pleasant outside of the peak season too!

What most people don’t realize is that Antalya is huge. It covers not only the city itself (which has an amazing beach—Konyaalti) but also the province, including many other towns and resorts. Choosing the right place to go is important because the distances between towns can be quite large.

Once you know where you want to go, the next question is how long you should stay there. How much time in Antalya is enough for you? Well, that depends on how much fun you can handle! But, to give you an idea, let’s explore more about Antalya itself and then arrive at a ballpark figure.

The Difference Between Antalya And Antalya Province

Just a quick point to make before we dive in. Antalya city and Antalya province are two different things. Consider Antalya Province to be like a state, and Antalya City is its capital. In total, the province is 20,723 km², so you certainly want to make sure you choose the right spot!

There is one airport in the region—Antalya International Airport. Transfers between the city and resorts can take up to 2 hours if you’re heading to Alanya (not to be confused!). However, if you’re staying in Alanya city itself, it’s only a 20-minute drive at most to the airport, and that factors in traffic.

How To Get To Antalya

During the summer months, flights head into Antalya International Airport daily, and even outside of the season, there are regular flights from major cities across Europe. You can easily find a domestic flight from Istanbul to Antalya, with daily flights between the two cities.

Alternatively, if you’re staying in another resort in Turkey and you want to head to Antalya for a short break, you can either go to Istanbul and take a domestic flight or drive.

The flight time between Istanbul and Antalya is just 1 hour and 20 minutes, but it depends on how close you are to Istanbul!

Turkey’s long-distance bus network is very high quality, and I find it a very comfortable way to travel. Yes, it can take many hours to get to where you want to go, but buses are equipped with comfy seats, seat-back TVs, and Wi-Fi; you’re served snacks and drinks, and the bus stops regularly for toilet breaks.

To give you an idea of driving times, it will take 4.5 hours to drive between Marmaris and Antalya, 5.5 hours between Bodrum and Antalya, roughly 6 hours from Izmir, and around 2 hours 45 minutes from Fethiye.

The drive itself is very pleasant. You can choose to drive over the mountains, which is very dramatic, especially in the early season when there may still be snow on the mountain tops, or you can go along the coastal road. This route does take a little longer, but it’s extremely beautiful, and you’ll drive past the famous Kaputaş Beach.

Places To See In Antalya City

If you base yourself in Antalya city itself, you’ll have a short transfer from the airport, and you’ll be right in the heart of a busy and beautiful metropolis. So, what is there to see and do? Aside from filling your belly with a hearty Turkish breakfast, here are some of my recommendations.

Kaleici (Old Town)

Start your journey by exploring the heart of Antalya, Kaleici. This charming neighborhood is full of narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and fascinating historical sites. Wander through the ancient Hadrian’s Gate, visit Kesik Minaret Mosque, and browse the colorful shops and cafes.

Antalya Museum

Visit the Antalya Museum to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and culture. This well-curated museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, relics, and ceramics. Don’t miss the Hall of Gods and the splendid sarcophagus collection.

Duden Waterfalls

Take a break from the bustling city and venture to the Duden Waterfalls, just a short drive away. Witness the cascade of water as it plunges from the cliffs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. To fully appreciate the beauty of these falls, you can enjoy a picnic, walk along the park’s paths, or even take a boat ride. Visiting here is very low cost, so if you need to budget your trip, you can still see the beauty of this area.

The cascades are set amidst a serene natural park and offer magnificent views from both above and below. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters or capture stunning photographs of this awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Antalya Aquarium

Dive into the depths of the ocean without getting wet at Antalya Aquarium. This enormous attraction boasts a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Marvel at the incredible underwater tunnel and witness feeding sessions with your favorite sea creatures.

Konyaalti Beach

Antalya’s stunning coastline offers plenty of sandy stretches, but Konyaalti Beach stands out with its turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop. Relax under the warm sun, swim in the crystal-clear Mediterranean, or indulge in water sports such as paddleboarding and jet skiing.

Yivli Minaret

A symbol of Antalya, the iconic Yivli Minaret towers above the skyline as one of the city’s oldest structures. This 13th-century brick minaret is part of the Alaaddin Mosque complex and offers panoramic views of Antalya. Explore the surrounding ancient market, the historical clock tower, and nearby Ottoman-era buildings.

Antalya City Marina

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Antalya City Marina, where luxurious yachts dock against a backdrop of palm trees. The marina offers a vibrant atmosphere, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. Savor a delicious meal with a view or indulge in some shopping at the nearby boutiques.

Antalya Aqualand & Dolphinland

If you’re traveling with family, make sure to visit Antalya Aqualand & Dolphinland. This water park and dolphinarium provide a fun-filled day for all ages. Enjoy thrilling water slides, swim with dolphins, or relax by the poolside.

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Places To See In Antalya Province

The province itself, beyond the city, is packed with historical and natural wonders. Sure, there are amazing beaches, but definitely make a pact with yourself to head out and explore everything this stunning area has to offer. Here are a few of my recommendations:

Visit The Ancient City Of Side

Unearth the rich history of Antalya Province with a visit to the ancient city of Side. Wander through the well-preserved ruins, marvel at the Temple of Apollo, and admire the glorious views of the Mediterranean Sea. Don’t miss the chance to explore the grandeur of the ancient theatre, which dates back to the 2nd century AD.

Discover Phaselis

Nestled between two picturesque bays lies the ancient city of Phaselis. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along its Roman ruins, which include well-preserved streets, a theatre, and a charming harbor bathed in turquoise waters. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a dip in the crystal-clear sea at one of its secluded coves, surrounded by lush greenery and one of the best beaches in Antalya.

Embark On A Jeep Safari In The Taurus Mountains

Take a break from the seaside and set off on an exhilarating Jeep Safari adventure in the Taurus Mountains. Traverse through rugged terrain, ancient villages, and picturesque valleys, immersing yourself in the region’s diverse landscapes. As you ascend higher, prepare to be rewarded with sublime panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline.

Relax In Olympos

Escape the crowds of Antalya city and head towards the secluded coastal town of Olympos. This bohemian paradise offers a unique blend of sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins. Meander through the narrow paths of Olympos and stumble upon hidden gems such as the Roman Theatre and the Chimaera, a natural phenomenon where eternal flames light up the night.

Wander Through The Ruins Of Termessos

For history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, a visit to the ancient city of Termessos is a must. Perched high in the Taurus Mountains, this remarkable site offers dramatic views and well-preserved ruins set amidst a stunning natural setting. Explore the ancient theatre, city walls, and necropolis, complemented by the pristine wilderness that surrounds it.

Bask In The Beauty Of Cleopatra Beach In Alanya

Indulge in a day of sunshine and relaxation at Cleopatra Beach in the enchanting coastal town of Alanya. Known for its fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters, this idyllic beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. Be sure to visit the iconic Alanya Castle, which overlooks this stunning stretch of coastline.

Unwind In The Serene Cirali Beach

Escape the tourist crowds and discover true tranquillity at the serene Cirali Beach. This unspoiled paradise offers a pristine shoreline fringed with stunning mountains and dense forests. Take a stroll along the beach, visit its protected loggerhead turtle nesting sites, or relax while enjoying the jaw-dropping natural surroundings.

Wander Through The Ancient City Of Myra

Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Myra, located near the town of Demre. Discover the beautifully preserved Lycian rock-cut tombs, which are intricately decorated and carved into the cliffs. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Church of St. Nicholas, home to the legendary figure of Santa Claus.

How Many Days In Antalya Is Enough?

Okay, so now that you know just how much there is to see and do, let’s answer the big question: How many days should you spend in Antalya?

Personally, I think if you’re visiting during the summer months, anything less than a week will be too short, and you’ll miss far too much. If you’re visiting out of season, however, four days would probably allow you to see an overview. Remember that the Antalya region is pretty seasonal, so many things do close from the middle of November until the middle of April, although there are many hotels still open.

If you’re visiting during peak season and you really want to spend time and see a lot, enjoy the beaches and food, and live your best summer life, a standard two-week vacation should see you right. If you’re only staying for a few days, you really need more time to pack everything in. After all, Antalya has countless famous sights and museums away from the beach!

In the end, you won’t want to leave, so that’s definitely something to make peace with beforehand!

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