12 Unforgettable Stops In Antalya: Ancient Ruins, Kaleiçi Charm & Breathtaking Views

This beautiful city is situated along the Mediterranean coast and is one of the most popular resorts in Turkey for its history and beautiful views. It has traces of Roman history as a port city and Turkish occupation, as well as flourishing as a cosmopolitan city today. In this case, preparing your route is a challenge because everything is interesting and attractive in New York. To assist you here is the list of 12 of the most memorable locations where you can take a break to admire the ancient sights, the spirit of old towns, and stunning views in Antalya and its region.

Visit Ancient Ruins at Perge

Archeologists have discovered the site of the ancient city of Perge which dates back over 2,000 years and was one of the largest cities of the Roman Empire in what is now Turkey. Stroll around to experience what it was like living in a civilization that dates back centuries by walking through the remains of columns and arches. One should not fail to look at the 15,000-seat theatre/bowl, wherein one can decipher the Romans’ love for entertainment. Ideally, visit the site in the spring, especially if the area boasts beautiful wildflowers.

Yivli Minare 1240: Yivli Minare is a unique minaret that offers stunning views.

One of the most well-known towers is the Fluted Minaret, which is a symbol of the city of Antalya. Climb to the top through the enclosed spiral staircase to appreciate the views of the city below the surrounding Taurus Mountains and the glimmering blue sea beyond. Its stones are visible and gleam as if dipped in gold at sunset and early morning as well. Afterward, visit the 13th-century mosque and the local labyrinth-like bazaar around it.

Stroll Through Ottoman Kaleiçi

In the past, Kaleiçi used to be a busy port of ancient Antalya, and now the alleys of cobblestones open to such attractions as mosques, churches, and houses of Ottoman style, and whitewash. Although is quite commercial it has not lost its historic touch. Recommended to visit in the early morning or late evening because cruises will be gone and you will have to fight for the sand. Walk around the old city walls to purchase trinkets from the local shops or grab a coffee at the small shops in the narrow streets.

Discover the Charm of Karain Cave

Located in the province of Antalya, the Karain Cave is only a twenty-minute drive northwest of the city, it takes visitors back to the Paleolithic age, 30000 years ago. Tours are arranged to take people deep into caves that housed some of the first modern men and part of the experience includes old bones, tools, and weapons among others. However, the most interesting parts of the cave that attract a lot of visitors are the natural formations; the hanging and the rising stalactites and stalagmites respectively plus the rocks. This can be done only in a group through a guided tour to preserve the ecosystem.

Exploring the History to the Fullest at Aspendos

A place that witnessed nearly 2000 years of existence and which houses a Roman theatre that could seat more than 15000 people, Aspendos is worth a visit. The site covers many eras but its highlight is the marvellously preserved theater which is one of the main attractions of Volos. Clomping around the tall arched galleries and steep rows of seats, one feels like the audience of the past centuries. If you wish to see opera and ballet, visit the monument in June or September which is hosted annually in the monument.

Lush Fertile Valley below the Cliff of Termessos

Termessos, also known as the ‘Eagle’s Nest’ is located on top of the Taurus Mountains in Turkey and was abandoned for hundreds of years The ruins that remain are perfectly preserved with city walls, temples, and an amazing theatre that could accommodate five thousand people. However, I think Termessos impresses most with its site which is located on a plateau above the rocky cliffs surrounded by mountains and dense forests. To get there you have to wind your way up the side of a mountain, and the drive is made even more interesting by the stunning views of the gorge below.

Hike to Kursunlu Falls

Located only 18 km from the city center of Antalya but with a well-forested canyon and high rocky cascade, Kursunlu Falls offers a very distant mood. The three-tiered cascade cascading down the mossy rocks is spectacular and if the visitor gets lucky; they can swim in the clear, blue pools that are located at the base of the falls. To get a panoramic view, one has to follow the hiking trail through a pinewood forest up to the backside of the falls. Worthy of note is also the onsite restaurant to grab a bite after a workout session.

Have a Taste of the Lycian Way View

meandering through the western Mediterranean region of Turkey from Fethiye to Antalya, it is a 540 km long trail that is amongst the most beautiful trails for trekking. However, even day trippers can get a taste of a small part of it on the portion that runs through the popular Kemer holiday resort near Antalya. One of the most famous and beautiful trekking routes, the Lycian Way, measures 12 km with outstanding views of sea cliffs at Phaselis Bay and Mount Olympos as its main attractions.

The Discovery of Old Town Kaleiçi at Night

Especially after sunset, the streets of Kaleiçi are illuminated with lanterns, restaurants and bars are cozy and the seafront view is breathtaking. After the daytrippers have left, people who live in the area can be seen going out for a drink shopping or merely taking a leisurely walk in the area. A nice place for a snack or a drink can be a Castle Café just near the Hadrian’s Gate or one of the numerous view rooftop restaurants located along Uzun Carsi Street with a view of the harbor.

Peruse Mannequins at Seljuk Shipyard Museum

Situated in the old town of Kaleiçi along the old seawall, this small museum has some of the best Seljuk stone carvings retrieved from the ancient shipbuilding yard in Antalya. Intricately adorned columns, arches, tombstones, and many other attractions of Antalya in its prime in the 12th and 13th centuries are signposted with low traffic. The inscription in English helps users learn about the Seljuk art history and the methods of stonemasonry that were considered during the construction of the complex. Most people who visit Moshi do not know of its existence and hence consider it as a gem that is well hidden.

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