A local market where you can experience the culture and buy local products.

The local market in Antalya is a bustling hub of activity, offering a unique insight into the daily life of the locals. As you wander through the market, you'll be greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh fruits and vegetables, the vibrant colors of handmade crafts, and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers. /n Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir, wanting to sample some local delicacies, or simply wanting to soak up the atmosphere, the local market is a must-visit. The market is also a great place to practice your haggling skills, as bargaining is a common practice here. So, come prepared to negotiate and you might just walk away with a great deal.

A bustling hub of local culture and commerce, Antalya's local market is a must-visit.

Kaleiçi, the old town of Antalya, is filled with historic buildings, narrow winding streets, and stunning architecture.

Kaleiçi, the historic city center of Antalya, is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. The neighborhood is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era houses, which are a testament to the city's rich past. The narrow, winding streets and old wooden houses alongside the Roman walls give the neighborhood a distinct charm. /n The area is also home to several attractions, including the ancient Roman Harbor, now a marina, the Kesik Minare (Broken Minaret), and the historic Hadrian's Gate. The neighborhood is also filled with boutique hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a vibrant area day and night. Whether you're exploring the historic sites, shopping for unique souvenirs, or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, there's always something to do in Kaleiçi.

Kaleiçi is Antalya's historic city center, known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era houses.

An ancient Roman gate built in honor of Emperor Hadrian's visit in 130 AD.

Hadrian's Gate is an ancient Roman monument that stands as a testament to Antalya's rich history and architectural prowess. Built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian's visit to the city in 130 AD, the gate is a significant landmark in Antalya. /n The gate is a stunning example of Roman architecture, with its three arched gates and ornate carvings. It's a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Walking through the gate, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the city's rich history and the architectural prowess of the Romans.

An ancient Roman monument, Hadrian's Gate is a significant landmark in Antalya.

A popular beach in Antalya with a stunning view of the mountains.

Konyaalti Beach is a popular beach located in Antalya, Turkey. It is known for its beautiful views of the Taurus Mountains and its crystal-clear waters. /n The beach is a great place to relax and unwind, with plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the beachfront, where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the stunning views. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, visitors can also take part in a variety of water sports, including jet skiing and parasailing. The beach is also close to several attractions, including the Antalya Aquarium and the Antalya Museum, making it a great base for exploring the city.

Konyaalti Beach is a popular beach in Antalya, known for its beautiful views of the Taurus Mountains.

Experience the captivating blend of ancient history and modern luxury in Antalya, Turkey. Nestled on the Mediterranean coast, Antalya offers a rich tapestry of turquoise beaches, Roman architecture, and vibrant bazaars. Explore the old city, Kaleiçi, with its narrow cobbled streets, historic Ottoman houses, and the impressive Hadrian's Gate. Visit the Antalya Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts from the Bronze Age to Byzantium. Enjoy a leisurely boat trip to the Duden Waterfalls, a stunning natural wonder. Indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine and shop for local crafts in the bustling markets. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the beautiful Konyaalti Beach, adventure in the Taurus Mountains, or cultural immersion, Antalya promises an unforgettable journey.

Local Market

Kaleiçi

Hadrian's Gate

Konyaalti Beach

Start your day with a visit to the bustling Local Market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and traditional Turkish goods. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant. Try some of the local delicacies like kebabs, mezes, and baklava. The food is rich in flavors and will surely satisfy your taste buds.

After lunch, head to the old town of Kaleiçi. Here, you can explore the narrow winding streets, beautiful Ottoman-era houses, and historical sites. Don't forget to visit the iconic Hadrian's Gate.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a seafood restaurant by the harbor. The fresh seafood paired with a glass of local wine is a perfect way to end your day.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Konyaalti Beach. The beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and offers stunning views of the sunset.

Exploring the local culture and cuisine of Antalya

UTC+3

Public buses are a popular and affordable way to get around Antalya. They operate on numerous routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. The buses are modern and comfortable, and most have air conditioning.

Antalya has a modern tram system that connects many of the city's main attractions. The trams are a convenient and efficient way to get around, especially if you're staying in the city center.

Minibuses, or dolmuş, are another common form of public transportation in Antalya. They operate on set routes, but unlike buses, they can stop anywhere along the route to pick up or drop off passengers. They're a good option for short trips within the city.

Taxis are readily available throughout Antalya. They're a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. All taxis are metered, and rates are regulated by the city.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Antalya. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're not familiar with the local public transportation system. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Antalya is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths. Many hotels and rental shops offer bicycles for rent, making it a fun and healthy way to explore the city.

If you're comfortable driving in Turkey, renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Antalya and the surrounding region at your own pace. Numerous car rental companies operate in the city, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs.

Boats are a great way to explore Antalya's beautiful coastline. There are numerous boat tours available, or you can hire a private boat for a more personalized experience.

Many of Antalya's main attractions are located within walking distance of each other, especially in the old town (Kaleiçi). Walking is a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in the cooler morning and evening hours.

A popular dish in Antalya, Adana Kebab is a spicy minced meat kebab, named after the city of Adana in Turkey. It's usually served with flatbread, salad, and a yogurt sauce.

Adana Kebab

Şiş Kebap is a traditional Turkish dish made of marinated meat skewered and grilled over charcoal. It's a must-try for meat lovers visiting Antalya.

Şiş Kebap

Pide is a Turkish pizza-like dish topped with various ingredients like cheese, meat, and vegetables. It's a popular fast food in Antalya and throughout Turkey.

Pide

Lahmacun is a thin piece of dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, then baked. It's a popular street food in Antalya.

Lahmacun

Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a traditional dessert in Antalya and throughout Turkey.

Baklava

Turkish Tea, or Çay, is a staple in Antalya and is often served in a tulip-shaped glass. It's a strong black tea that's typically served without milk.

Turkish Tea

Raki is a traditional Turkish anise-flavored spirit often served with seafood or meze. It's a popular drink in Antalya and is often referred to as 'lion's milk' due to its cloudy appearance when water is added.

Raki

Meze is a selection of small dishes served before the main meal. It's a traditional way to start a meal in Antalya and can include a variety of dishes like hummus, stuffed vine leaves, and eggplant salad.

Meze

Döner is a Turkish dish made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, usually lamb, beef, or chicken. It's a popular fast food in Antalya and is often served in a sandwich or wrap.

Döner

Köfte is a Turkish meatball made from ground meat, often lamb, mixed with spices and onions. It's a popular dish in Antalya and can be found in many local restaurants.

Köfte

Turkish Coffee is a strong, unfiltered coffee that's a staple in Antalya. It's traditionally served in a small cup and is often accompanied by a piece of Turkish delight.

Turkish Coffee

Lokum, or Turkish Delight, is a sweet treat made from sugar and starch, often flavored with rosewater, lemon, or mint. It's a traditional dessert in Antalya and is often served with coffee.

Lokum

New Year's Day

Ramadan Feast Eve

Ramadan Feast

Ramadan Feast Holiday

National Sovereignty and Children's Day

Labor and Solidarity Day

Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day

Sacrifice Feast Holiday

Sacrifice Feast Eve

Sacrifice Feast

Democracy and National Unity Day

Victory Day

Republic Day

A popular spot for rafting and hiking. The canyon is home to the ancient Roman Bridge and the beautiful Koprucay River.

Koprulu Canyon

An ancient Greek city on the southern Mediterranean coast of Turkey, a resort town and one of the best-known classical sites in the country.

Side Ancient City

One of the best preserved ancient theatres in the world, built in 155 AD during the rule of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Aspendos Theatre

A natural site famous for a carbonate mineral left by the flowing of thermal spring water. The ancient city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white castle.

Pamukkale

Known for its ancient ruins of Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus).

Demre

An island and district of Antalya Province known for its underwater ruins, the sunken city of Simena.

Kekova

An ancient Anatolian city, once the capital of Pamphylia Secunda. It's a large site of ancient ruins including a stadium, Roman Gate, Nymphaeum, Roman Bath, Hellenistic Gate, and Acropolis.

Perge Ancient City

An ancient city located on a mountain, known for its well-preserved theatre, and stunning views over Antalya region.

Termessos

Bodrum

Cappadocia

Istanbul

Marmaris

Safranbolu

Ancient ruins of the temple of Apollo in Side

Turkish is the official language in Antalya, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

Antalya has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The average summer temperature is around 86°F (30°C), while in winter it's around 59°F (15°C).

Tipping is customary in Turkey. A tip of 10-15% is expected in restaurants. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest lira is common.

The standard voltage in Turkey is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F. If you live in the U.S. or Canada, you will need a power plug adapter.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Antalya, but most tourists prefer to drink bottled water.

Public transportation in Antalya is efficient and affordable. It includes trams, buses, and minibuses called 'dolmuş'.

Turkish people are known for their hospitality. Don't be surprised if you're invited for tea or a meal.

The dress code in Antalya is generally casual. However, when visiting religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly.

Smoking is very common in Turkey and is allowed in many public places, but not in enclosed public spaces.

Antalya is generally safe for tourists, but like in any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

The emergency number in Turkey is 112 for medical emergencies, 155 for police, and 110 for fire.

Haggling is common in Turkish markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price, especially in the bazaars.

Turkish cuisine is diverse and delicious. Don't miss out on local specialties like kebabs, mezes, and baklava.

If you're planning to visit any of the ancient sites around Antalya, it's a good idea to hire a guide to fully appreciate the history.

Turkish baths, or 'hamams', are a must-try experience. Just remember to bring your own towel and soap.

It's considered polite to remove your shoes when entering a Turkish home.

The sale and consumption of alcohol is legal in Turkey, but public drunkenness is frowned upon.

If you're planning to drive in Antalya, remember that Turks drive on the right side of the road.

It's a good idea to purchase travel insurance before your trip to cover any unexpected incidents or cancellations.

January is the coldest month in Antalya, with occasional rain, so pack some warm clothes and a raincoat.

February is slightly warmer but still has some rainy days, a good time to visit historical sites.

March sees the start of spring, with more sunny days and blooming flowers.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

May is warm and sunny, a great time to hit the beach and enjoy water sports.

June marks the start of summer with high temperatures, don't forget your sunscreen.

July is the hottest month, with long sunny days, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

August is equally hot, with a high chance of clear, sunny days.

September is slightly cooler, but still warm enough for beach activities.

October offers comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the city and nearby attractions.

November is cooler with occasional rain, a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

December is cool and wet, with fewer tourists, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.

Antalya, Turkey is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. 

If you're planning to visit during the summer months (June to September), expect temperatures to range from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C). This is the perfect time for beach activities and water sports, so don't forget your sunscreen, hats, and light, breathable clothing to protect yourself from the intense sun.

The winter months (December to February) in Antalya are relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C). However, this is also the rainy season, so pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Despite the rain, winter can be a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and enjoy exploring historical sites.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) are also great times to visit Antalya. During these seasons, temperatures are typically between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C), providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities like hiking or sightseeing.

Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to Antalya!

Cookie consent

1-Day Antalya Shopping, Food & Wine Friends' Excursion

About Antalya, Turkey