What to do in Antalya? — 8 Must, top & best things to do in Antalya

October 22, 2022

Traveling to Turkey, visiting the famous ancient city of Antalya, you should definitely do these 8 things to fully experience the beauties that have made the name of a unique Antalya in the heart of two Asia – Europe continents, that is the beauty of the old town hundreds of years old, of the idyllic white sand beach, of the timeless magnificent Roman ruins… So, what to do in Antalya? Let’s check out our suggested 8 top things to do in Antalya (Antalya what to do, Antalya things to do) and Antalya what to see including must do in Antalya and best things to do in Antalya to help you make a memorial trip to the beautiful coastal city of Turkey!

Roman port | best things to do in antalya

Turkey regions and counties map with Antalya in the southeast. | best things to do in antalya

Going to the countryside, visit the ruins of ancient Perge (Perga) (#what to do in antalya)

The countryside around Antalya is packed with many of the most important, stunning and famous historical sites, well worth the first place on your list of must-see places to visit in Antalya is the ruins of Perge.

The structures in Perge, the former capital of the Asia Minor region Pamphylia Secunda are the rare Romanesque-built ruins still standing today.

Although, over time, the buildings have been destroyed a lot, but the remains still show the surprising ingenuity of the masters of Roman architecture at that time.

Perge Stadium has a capacity of 15,000 spectators | best things to do in antalya

If you are someone who is studying Roman architecture or simply has a great love for this architectural style, you should definitely visit Perge at least once in your life.

The great amphitheater and the set of 2 tower gates that were once used as the main entrance of the ancient city, are sculpted and built extremely sophisticatedly that make you fascinated.

Colonaded street | best things to do in antalya

Ancient city of Perge | what to do in antalya

In particular, do not miss the visit to the ancient stadium – Perge chariot racecourse, a stadium that can accommodate up to 15,000 spectators at the same time, recognized as the largest and well-preserved stadium in the world today since ancient times. The size of the project will surprise you.

Visit the ancient city of Aspendos

About 40 kilometers from Antalya are the ruins – the remains of the legendary ancient city of Aspendos. The most massive and outstanding work here is the Roman theater built between 160 – 180 AD.

This is the best preserved ancient theater in the world because when you come here to visit, tourists will not only find the foundation of the building like many other ruined theaters, but you will see most of parts of the theater are still there, the walls, the inner structures, the steps are still intact.

The Roman Theater of Aspendos is almost intact | what to do in antalya

Climbing up each row of seats to stand on the stairs – the highest seat, you will feel the grandeur and vastness of this construction, which, according to event researchers, it could welcome up to 8,000 spectators at the same time.

After visiting the theater, you move a little further and look up to see the old city aqueducts looming over the nearby mountains. Each scene here is filled with time, sitting here gives you a feeling of peace and quiet, so if you are under heavy stress, start the tour right away.

Ride a car, take a boat to see Duden waterfall (#best things to do in antalya)

Upper Dude is picturesque | top things to do in antalya

You can take a short boat trip or drive to visit the beautiful Duden Falls, the natural twin falls of Lower Duden and Upper Duden that were “born and nourished” by the strong currents pouring down from the Taurus Mountains straight to the Mediterranean Sea.

Lower Duden falls down the cliff, you can see the waterfall clearly, especially when taking a boat cruise, and Upper Duden, its location is located 15 km from Antalya, traveling by car or bus can reach Upper Duden easily. Very convenient to visit.

Duden Falls | top things to do in antalya

In addition, at the back of the waterfall there is a deep gorge, if you like adventurous, you can do a trekking in this area, wandering through the cave, you will witness a beauty. other waterfalls and magnificent mountain scenery here.

The city of Antalya is located in the south of Turkey, on the legendary Mediterranean coast, which is associated with the stories of the powerful gods of Olympia. | top things to do in antalya

It is recommended to visit Antalya in April – October | top things to do in antalya

In addition you can visit equally beautiful falls called Manavgat

Explore Kaleici, Antalya’s old town (#antalya what to do)

The peaceful old town of Kaleici | must do in antalya

Nestled behind limestone cliffs in the main harbour, Kaleici, Antalya’s old town has been well preserved by the Turkish authorities. To enjoy the beauty of Kaleici, visitors can take a short stroll in the old town on a cool afternoon.

Visiting ancient city of Antalya, from the small and beautiful cobblestoned streets, the peaceful and romantic coastline to the entertainment services… all make visitors fall in love with irresistible passion. | must do in antalya

At Kaleici, you will see Roman ruins flanked by ancient mosques, admire the exquisite beauty of the Yivli Minare Mosque (Yivliminare Mosque), a building dating back to the 13th century, easily recognized by the giant tower, a design feature typical of mosque architecture.

Rugs, carpets and paintings in an antique shop in Kaleici old town

Kaleici Old Town, Antalya | must do in antalya

In addition to the monuments, the old town also has souvenir shops, eateries, cafes on the roadside and especially to add more knowledge about beautiful Antalya, you should go straight to the Antalya Archeology Museum (Address: Bahçelievler, Konyaaltı Cd. No:88, 07050 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Turkey / Hours: 8:30AM–6PM) in the old town of Kaleici.

Antalya Archaeological Museum | antalya what to do

Rafting in Koprulu Canyon (#top things to do in antalya)

Great fun rafting in Koprulu | antalya what to do

About 90 kilometers from Antalya is one of Turkey’s top rafting spots – Koprulu Canyon in the National Park.

Koprulu is the longest canyon in the country with a half in Asia and a half in Europe, if you interested in rafting, can challenge to experience rafting from level 1 (for beginners). head) to level VI (for experts).

A challenge rafting trip down the picturesque Kopru River, through lush green pine, cypress, and cedar forests, watching wildlife such as foxes, wolves or even a bear fleetingly on the rafting trip will give you a glimpse of what to expect incredibly unforgettable experience.

Relax on the beaches, luxury resorts of Antalya (#must do in antalya)

Great relaxation on Antalya beach | antalya what to do

Antalya is famous for its super long coastline and beautiful unspoiled sea. Guests will have pleasant relaxing moments on the beaches and luxury resorts of the city.

Konyaalti and Lara are the two main beaches of Antalya, about 7 km west of the city you will reach Konyaati and Lara is located in the east of the city, very close to high-class resorts.

In case you want to escape the crowds, driving just 3 hours will bring you to Kaputaş beach, an extremely unspoiled and deserted beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, strolling as much as you want.

Trekking on the Lycian Way (#antalya things to do)

Lycian Way, is a leading trekking route in the world with a length of 540 km, with a starting point in the suburbs of Antalya extending as far as Fethiye.

Traveling along this route, the trekking lovers will pass through many rural areas of Turkey, which are full of ancient monuments, through many seas and mountains, in 29 days completing the Lycian Way trekking you will extremely satisfied with the natural beauty of Turkey.

Lycian Way route map | antalya things to do

If you do not have a free month to go all the way of the Lycian Way, you can take a short distance to discover a part of the wonderful beauty of the Lycian Way.

Lunch/Dinner near the old harbor

Fall in love with Antalya again with a memorable lunch by the old harbor | best things to do in antalya

Visitors to Antalya should absolutely not refuse the opportunity to enjoy true Antalya Turkish cuisine, which is to eat Turkish food at a restaurant near the old port.

There are many seafood restaurants and many typical Turkish dishes located on the cliffs and around the old harbour. You can choose any restaurant, order and enjoy the food with the harbor view, sparkling night view and delicious food will be great memories for visitors.

Great views of old harbour | best things to do in antalya

With 8 top and best things to do in Antalya as we introduced above, how many do you think you can accomplish? Let plan a trip to this ancient city, we ensure you have a memorable visit to Antalya.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Antalya you can refer to

Read more Antalya guide here and Turkey guide here.