Things to do in Antalya? The capital of the Turkish Riviera combines an Ottoman old town (Kaleiçi) above a small harbour, pebble and sand beaches, waterfalls and, above all, a rare concentration of ancient sites: Perge, Aspendos and its Roman theatre, Termessos in the mountains, Side by the sea. This guide to the things to do in Antalya covers the highlights, day trips, the best time to go, the budget and the areas to stay in.
Safety: according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey, most of them in the southeast, Ankara and Istanbul; Antalya is far from the southeastern border areas. Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey in summer (GOV.UK). The UN climate conference COP31 is scheduled in Antalya from 9 to 20 November 2026 (UNCCD events calendar): expect heavy demand for hotels. Check the latest advice before you leave.
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Antalya at a glance
- Region the Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey
- Language TurkishEnglish, German and Russian are common in tourist areas
- Currency the Turkish lira (TRY); see our currency exchange guide · currencies
- Time zone UTC+3, no daylight saving · details3 h ahead of London and 8 h ahead of New York in winterLocal time now: –:–
- Airports Antalya (AYT), about 10 km (6 mi) east of the centreCheck current routes with the airlines
- Entry US and UK: visa-free up to 90 days in any 180 days · travel.state.gov · GOV.UK
- Electricity check the plug type with your adapter supplier · plugs
- Ideal length 3 to 4 days for the city and ancient sitesA week with beach time
- Best time April-June and September-OctoberJune to September for the beach alone
- Budget see our budget section
Things to do in Antalya: the highlights
Kaleiçi, the old town
Enclosed by its old walls, Kaleiçi is a maze of lanes lined with Ottoman houses of wood and stone, many now guesthouses, restaurants and shops. The main landmarks are the Clock Tower, the fluted minaret of Yivli Minare, symbol of the city, and the Kesik Minare, the truncated minaret of a building that was successively a temple, a church and a mosque. Mosques can be visited in modest clothing, outside prayer times.
Hadrian’s Gate
This three-arched triumphal gate, built in honour of Emperor Hadrian on his visit in the 2nd century, marks the entrance to the old town. Chariot wheel ruts are still visible in the paving.
The old harbour and the cliffs
Below Kaleiçi, the old Roman harbour now shelters fishing boats and excursion gulets. One- or two-hour boat trips run along the cliffs to the waterfalls that drop into the sea. For the view from above, Karaalioğlu Park, south of the old town, overlooks the bay and the Taurus Mountains.
Antalya Archaeological Museum
This is one of Turkey’s leading archaeological museums. It gathers finds from the region’s sites: statues from Perge, sarcophagi, mosaics, objects from prehistory to the Byzantine era. See it before or after the ancient sites to understand them better.
Konyaaltı and Lara beaches
West of the centre, Konyaaltı is a long pebble beach facing the mountains, with a landscaped promenade. To the east, Lara has fine sand lined with large resort hotels. Both can be reached by public transport or taxi from the centre.
The Düden waterfalls
The Düden river forms two falls: the upper one, in a park north of the city, where you can walk behind the curtain of water, and the lower one, which plunges straight into the Mediterranean from a cliff to the east. Several boat trips from the old harbour pass in front of it.
The Tünektepe cable car
West of Konyaaltı, a cable car climbs to the summit of Tünektepe, over 600 m (1,970 ft) high, for a panorama of the whole Bay of Antalya, especially at sunset.
Day trips from Antalya: ancient sites and nature
- Perge: a Greco-Roman city about 20 km (12 mi) east: colonnaded street, baths, stadium, Hellenistic gate.
- Aspendos: its 2nd-century Roman theatre is one of the best preserved of antiquity and still hosts performances. Nearby are the remains of the aqueduct.
- Side: a seaside resort built on an ancient city: Temple of Apollo by the water, theatre, museum.
- Termessos: a city perched in a mountain national park to the northwest; the walk is over rough ground, so bring good shoes and water.
- Köprülü Canyon: rafting and swimming in a turquoise river, with a Roman bridge.
- Phaselis and Olympos: ancient ruins by the sea south of Kemer; the natural flames of the Chimaera at Çıralı are best visited in the evening.
- Kaş and Kekova: further west on the Lycian coast: the sunken ruins of Kekova are seen by boat.
- Pamukkale: possible as a day trip but long (several hours’ drive each way); better to spend a night there. See our Pamukkale guide.
The UK FCDO warns that quad biking carries a risk of serious injury or death and needs specific travel insurance, and that jeep safaris have had a number of accidents: use a reputable company with proper safety procedures and equipment (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026). For rafting and boat trips, choose an operator that provides life jackets and helmets.
Itinerary: how many days in Antalya?
Antalya in 3 days
- Day 1: Hadrian’s Gate, Kaleiçi, Yivli Minare, the old harbour, sunset from Karaalioğlu Park
- Day 2: the archaeological museum in the morning, Konyaaltı in the afternoon, the Tünektepe cable car
- Day 3: Perge and Aspendos by car or on a tour, returning via the lower Düden waterfall
Antalya and the coast in a week
- Days 1 to 3: the itinerary above
- Day 4: Side, its ruins and its beach
- Day 5: Köprülü Canyon (rafting) or Termessos
- Day 6: Phaselis, Olympos and the Chimaera, night in Çıralı or Olympos
- Day 7: Kaş and Kekova by boat, or back to Antalya for the beach
Antalya combines with Istanbul or Cappadocia thanks to domestic flights, in a wider tour described in our Turkey travel guide.
When to go to Antalya: best time and climate
The best time to visit Antalya is April to June and September to October. Afternoons reach 22 to 32 °C (72 to 90 °F), there is almost no rain from May to September and the sea is warm enough for swimming from late spring. July and August are the peak beach season but very hot: an average high of nearly 35 °C (95 °F). Winter is mild (15 °C / 59 °F in January) but it is the rainy season: over 200 mm (7.9 in) in December and January. The table uses the official normals of the Turkish State Meteorological Service.
| Month | Avg max | Avg min | Rain | Crowds | Prices | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15.0 °C (59 °F) | 5.9 °C (43 °F) | 211 mm (8.3 in) | Low | Low | ❌ Very wet, cool |
| February | 15.9 °C (61 °F) | 6.5 °C (44 °F) | 113 mm (4.4 in) | Low | Low | ⚠️ Wet, ancient sites quiet |
| March | 18.4 °C (65 °F) | 8.3 °C (47 °F) | 95 mm (3.7 in) | Low | Low | ⚠️ Early spring, showers |
| April | 21.8 °C (71 °F) | 11.3 °C (52 °F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) | Moderate | Medium | ✅ Ideal for ancient sites |
| May | 26.4 °C (80 °F) | 15.7 °C (60 °F) | 37 mm (1.5 in) | Moderate | Medium | ✅ One of the best months |
| June | 31.6 °C (89 °F) | 20.1 °C (68 °F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | High | High | ✅ Beach, heat rising |
| July | 34.9 °C (95 °F) | 23.4 °C (74 °F) | 4 mm (0.2 in) | Very high | Very high | ⚠️ Very hot, sightseeing hard |
| August | 34.9 °C (95 °F) | 23.7 °C (75 °F) | 5 mm (0.2 in) | Very high | Very high | ⚠️ Very hot, crowded beaches |
| September | 31.7 °C (89 °F) | 20.1 °C (68 °F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) | High | High | ✅ Warm sea, fewer people |
| October | 27.3 °C (81 °F) | 15.9 °C (61 °F) | 77 mm (3.0 in) | Moderate | Medium | ✅ Pleasant, first rains |
| November | 21.6 °C (71 °F) | 10.7 °C (51 °F) | 152 mm (6.0 in) | Low (COP31 in 2026) | Medium | ⚠️ Heavy rain; COP31 from 9 to 20 November 2026 |
| December | 16.7 °C (62 °F) | 7.5 °C (46 °F) | 262 mm (10.3 in) | Low | Low | ❌ The wettest month |
With more than 340 hours of sunshine in July according to the same source, Antalya is one of the sunniest cities around the Mediterranean. In winter it rains less often than you might think (about ten days a month), but the showers are heavy.
Spring (March to May)
The best season for combining sightseeing and mild weather: 22 °C (72 °F) in April, 26 °C (79 °F) in May, green hills in bloom. The sea is still cool in April. March is still rainy.
Summer (June to August)
Beach season: almost no rain and a warm sea, but strong heat, nearly 35 °C (95 °F) in the afternoon in July and August, with nights at 23 °C (73 °F). Visit the ancient sites, which have no shade, at opening time. Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey in summer; if one breaks out, follow the instructions of the local authorities and call 112 (GOV.UK).
Autumn (September to November)
September is still summery (31.7 °C / 89 °F) with fewer people. October remains pleasant for both the beach and sightseeing, but the rains return at the end of the month. November is much wetter (152 mm / 6.0 in). In 2026, COP31 is held in Antalya from 9 to 20 November: avoid this period or book very early.
Winter (December to February)
Mild for the season (15 to 17 °C / 59 to 63 °F in the afternoon) but very wet. Many coastal resort hotels close; the city stays lively. An option for visiting the ancient sites and the museum quietly and cheaply, if you accept the rain.
When to go to Antalya, by type of trip
| Trip | Best time |
|---|---|
| Ancient sites and hiking | April-May, October |
| Beach and swimming | June to September |
| Combining beach and sightseeing | May-June, September-October |
| Rafting in Köprülü Canyon | May to October |
| Tight budget | March-April, November (outside COP31 in 2026) |
For other destinations at the same time of year, see where to go in May and where to go in October.
Antalya month by month
January: mild (15 °C / 59 °F) but very wet (211 mm / 8.3 in), quiet city.
February: still wet, ancient sites without crowds.
March: 18 °C (65 °F), early spring, frequent showers.
April: 22 °C (72 °F): the best month for Perge, Aspendos and Termessos.
May: 26 °C (79 °F) and little rain, the sea warms up.
June: 31.6 °C (89 °F), start of the peak beach season.
July: the hottest month (34.9 °C / 95 °F), almost no rain.
August: just as hot, beaches and hotels at their busiest.
September: warm sea, 31.7 °C (89 °F), fewer people.
October: 27 °C (81 °F), a very good compromise, rain at the end of the month.
November: wet (152 mm / 6.0 in); COP31 from 9 to 20 November 2026.
December: the wettest month (262 mm / 10.3 in), beach hotels often closed.
For the rest of the country, see the best time to visit Turkey.
Budget for a stay in Antalya
Prices in Turkey change quickly with inflation and the lira exchange rate: the amounts below are rough estimates per person per day, excluding flights, converted at the European Central Bank rate of 23 October 2026.
| Item | Tight budget | Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared double room) | roughly TRY 1,100 to 2,200 | roughly TRY 3,300 to 6,700 |
| Meals | roughly TRY 850 to 1,400 | roughly TRY 1,700 to 2,800 |
| Transport (tram, bus, taxi) | roughly TRY 150 to 350 | roughly TRY 550 to 1,100 |
| Sights and excursions | roughly TRY 550 to 1,100 | roughly TRY 1,100 to 2,200 |
| Total per day | roughly TRY 2,800 to 4,500 | roughly TRY 6,100 to 11,100 |
To save money: stay in a Kaleiçi guesthouse rather than a resort, eat in lokantas (canteens) away from the tourist streets, and combine Perge and Aspendos on the same day.
Getting there and getting around Antalya
Antalya Airport (AYT), one of the main international airports on the Turkish coast, is about 10 km (6 mi) east of the centre; many seasonal flights serve it, and outside the season you may need to connect in Istanbul. Check routes with the airlines. Taxis, shuttles and public transport link it to the city.
- On foot: Kaleiçi and the old harbour are best explored on foot; the lanes are steep and cobbled.
- Tram and bus: the city network serves the centre, Konyaaltı and Lara; you pay with a transport card.
- Taxi: convenient; ask for the meter to be switched on or agree the fare before setting off.
- Rental car: the most flexible option for the ancient sites, Termessos, Olympos and the Lycian coast. Check what your licence allows in the Driving section of GOV.UK or the Transportation section of travel.state.gov.
- Organised tours: useful for Perge, Aspendos, Side and Köprülü Canyon without a car.
- Long-distance buses (otogar): for Side, Kaş, Fethiye or Pamukkale.
Where to stay in Antalya
- Kaleiçi: guesthouses and small boutique hotels in Ottoman houses in the heart of the old town; lively in the evening, little parking.
- Konyaaltı: seafront hotels and apartments to the west; pebble beach, mountain views.
- Lara: large all-inclusive resorts on a sandy beach to the east, closer to the airport.
- Belek, Side, Kemer: beach resorts 30 minutes to more than an hour away, for a beach rather than city stay.
Entry requirements, health and safety
US citizens
According to the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov, last updated June 11, 2026), ordinary passport holders are exempt from visas for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond your entry date, with enough space for entry and exit stamps; make sure you get both stamps.
UK citizens
According to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK foreign travel advice, updated 19 October 2026), British citizen passport holders can visit without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism or business. Your passport must be valid for at least 150 days after the date you arrive and have at least 1 blank page. The US and UK sources give different validity rules: if in doubt, check with the Turkish embassy.
- Health: the UK FCDO advises checking vaccine recommendations at least 8 weeks before your trip; the GHIC and EHIC are not valid in Turkey, so travel insurance covering medical costs and evacuation is essential (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026). The U.S. Department of State notes that new private hospitals in Antalya have modern facilities.
- Methanol and spiking: people have died or fallen seriously ill after drinking illegally produced spirits; be wary of strangers offering food or drink, which could be spiked (GOV.UK).
- Sexual assault: most cases reported to British consular staff took place during the tourist season in coastal resorts (GOV.UK); the U.S. Department of State also reports assaults in hamams, spas and taxis. Call 112 for the police.
- Security: terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey; avoid demonstrations (GOV.UK).
- Natural risks: Turkey is earthquake-prone; follow the information of AFAD, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority. Wildfires happen frequently in summer (GOV.UK).
- Local laws: carry photo ID (your passport) at all times, it is a legal requirement; do not photograph military or official installations (GOV.UK).
- Emergencies: dial 112 (ambulance, fire, police) (GOV.UK).
For cancellation, theft or repatriation, see our travel insurance guide.
Practical tips for Antalya
- Money: cards are widely accepted; keep some Turkish lira in cash for small purchases, tips and dolmuş (minibuses).
- Etiquette: dress modestly when visiting a mosque (GOV.UK); women cover their heads and shoes come off. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.
- Sun: in summer, visit ancient sites at opening time and carry plenty of water.
- Food: try Antalya piyaz (white bean salad with tahini), grilled fish from the harbour and seasonal fruit.
- Mobile data: check your home carrier’s roaming charges; a local SIM or an eSIM is often cheaper.
Frequently asked questions
Is Antalya safe?
The UK FCDO (updated 19 October 2026) says terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey, mostly in the southeast, Ankara and Istanbul. Avoid demonstrations, watch your drinks and follow the instructions of the authorities.
When is the best time to go to Antalya?
April-June and September-October to combine sightseeing and the beach. For the beach alone, June to September; July and August are very hot, nearly 35 °C (95 °F) according to the Turkish State Meteorological Service normals.
Do I need a visa for Antalya?
No, for US and UK citizens staying up to 90 days in any 180 days. The U.S. Department of State asks for a passport valid six months beyond entry; the UK FCDO asks for 150 days and one blank page.
How many days should I spend in Antalya?
Three days for the old town, the museum and Perge-Aspendos. A week to add Side, Termessos, Köprülü Canyon and a few beach days.
Can you swim in Antalya in October?
Yes, the sea is generally warm enough for swimming in October, with an average afternoon high of 27 °C (81 °F). The first rains arrive at the end of the month.
Our sources
- Climate normals: 1991-2020 normals for the Antalya station, published by the Turkish State Meteorological Service (Meteoroloji Genel Müdürlüğü, MGM), as reported by Wikipedia (article « Antalya »)
- Entry, health and safety information read on 26 October 2026: U.S. Department of State, Turkey country information (travel.state.gov, last updated June 11, 2026), and UK FCDO, foreign travel advice for Turkey (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026)
- UNCCD, 2026 UN Climate Change Conference COP31 (Antalya, 9-20 November 2026), checked 26 October 2026
- European Central Bank, euro reference rates of 23 October 2026 (budget conversion)
- Our methodology
Updated October 2026.
To continue your trip, see our Turkey travel guide.
