Welcome to Antalya, Turkey’s southern Mediterranean coast, where the sun shines brightly all year round and the sea is crystal clear. This city is full of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and fun. In this article, we will share with you our recommendations for spending 3 days in Antalya, including what to see, where to go, what to eat, and more.
Day 1: Old Town and Waterfalls
- Start your day by exploring Antalya’s Old Town, also known as Kaleici, which is located in the heart of the city. This charming area is home to narrow streets, ancient buildings, and traditional Turkish houses.
- Visit the Hadrian’s Gate, a Roman triumphal arch that was built in 130 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city.
- Take a stroll through the Antalya Bazaar, where you can find all kinds of goods, from spices and textiles to souvenirs and jewelry.
- Visit the Antalya Museum, which is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in Turkey, with exhibits spanning from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period.
- Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at one of the many restaurants in Old Town, such as Seraser Fine Dining or Kaleici Balikcisi.
- In the afternoon, head to the Duden Waterfalls, which are located just a few kilometers outside the city center. These waterfalls consist of two cascades, the Upper Duden and the Lower Duden, and are surrounded by lush greenery.
- Take a boat ride under the waterfalls or enjoy a picnic in one of the nearby parks.
- For dinner, head to the Lara Beach area, which is known for its seafood restaurants, such as Akvaryum Balik and Seraser Restaurant.
Day 2: Beaches and Mountains
- Start your day early by heading to one of Antalya’s many beaches, such as Konyaalti or Lara Beach. Both of these beaches offer crystal clear water and stunning views of the Taurus Mountains.
- For lunch, head to the Beydagi Mountains, where you can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine while taking in breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
- After lunch, take a cable car ride to the top of the mountains, where you can explore the Tahtali Summit and enjoy panoramic views of Antalya.
- In the afternoon, visit the Antalya Aquarium, which is home to over 10,000 species of marine life, including sharks, rays, and turtles.
- For dinner, head to the Kaleici Marina, which is known for its seafood restaurants and romantic atmosphere.
Day 3: Perge and Side
- Start your day by taking a tour of the ancient city of Perge, which is located just 17 kilometers from Antalya. This city was founded by the Hittites in 1500 BC and was later conquered by the Romans.
- Visit the Perge Stadium, which is one of the best-preserved Roman stadiums in the world, and the Perge Theater, which could seat up to 12,000 people.
- After Perge, head to the nearby town of Side, which is known for its ancient ruins and beautiful beaches.
- Visit the Side Museum, which houses artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, and the Temple of Apollo, which dates back to the 2nd century AD.
- Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of Side’s beaches, such as the Side West Beach or the Side East Beach.
- For dinner, head back to Antalya and try one of the many traditional Turkish restaurants in the city, such as Ocakbasi Restaurant or Hidirlik Kebap & Meze.
Routes in Antalya
If you’re interested in exploring Antalya on foot or by bike, here are some recommended routes:
- The Old Town Walking Tour, which takes you through the narrow streets and ancient buildings of Kaleici.
- The Antalya Waterfalls Cycling Route, which takes you through the city center and out to the Duden Waterfalls.
- The Beydagi Mountains Hiking Trail, which takes you through the Taurus Mountains and offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
Where to Stay in Antalya
Antalya offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Here are some of our top picks:
- The Marmara Antalya, a luxury hotel located on the Mediterranean coast.
- The Mediterra Art Hotel, a boutique hotel located in the heart of Kaleici.
- The Puding Marina Residence, a modern hotel located in the Kaleici Marina.
- The Secret Palace Pansion, a budget-friendly hotel located in the Old Town.
Where to Eat in Antalya
Antalya is known for its delicious Turkish cuisine, which includes kebabs, meze, and seafood. Here are some of our favorite restaurants in the city:
- Seraser Fine Dining, which offers traditional Turkish cuisine in a beautiful setting.
- Kaleici Balikcisi, which specializes in seafood and has a cozy atmosphere.
- Akvaryum Balik, which offers fresh seafood and beautiful views of the sea.
- Hidirlik Kebap & Meze, which offers delicious kebabs and meze in a traditional setting.
Free Tours in Antalya
If you’re on a budget or just want to learn more about Antalya’s history and culture, here are some free tours you can take:
- The Old Town Walking Tour, which is offered by many local tour companies and takes you through the narrow streets and ancient buildings of Kaleici.
- The Antalya Museum Tour, which is offered by the Antalya Museum and takes you through the museum’s exhibits, including artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Ottoman periods.
- The Antalya Street Art Tour, which is offered by Antalya Mural and takes you through the city’s colorful street art.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Antalya?
The best time to visit Antalya is from April to June and from September to November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Yes, most visitors to Turkey need a visa. You can apply for a visa online or at a Turkish embassy or consulate.
Is Antalya safe for tourists?
Yes, Antalya is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any city, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Antalya is a beautiful city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, or delicious Turkish cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Antalya. Follow our guide for 3 days in Antalya and you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip. Don’t forget to check out the official tourism website of Antalya, Turkey at www.visitantalya.com for more information and travel tips.
