Antalya
Turkey
Attractions & Events in Antalya
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Antalya, Turkey
Top Attractions
Antalya Archaeological Museum
One of Turkey's top museums, showcasing artifacts from the Roman, Byzantine, and Lycian periods, including statues from Perge and Aspendos.
Tips: Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the extensive collections; photography is allowed without flash.
Antalya Marina
A picturesque harbor lined with yachts, seafood restaurants, and shops, offering boat tours along the Mediterranean coast.
Tips: Ideal for a sunset stroll; consider booking a boat tour to explore nearby coves and beaches.
Aspendos Theater
One of the best-preserved Roman theaters, built around 155 AD, still hosting performances due to its excellent acoustics.
Tips: Check the event schedule in advance to experience a live performance; bring a hat and water during summer visits.
Düden Waterfalls
A pair of scenic waterfalls where the Upper Düden cascades into a lush park and the Lower Düden dramatically falls into the Mediterranean Sea.
Tips: Visit the Upper Düden for a picnic and the Lower Düden by boat for the best views; spring and early summer offer the most impressive water flow.
Hadrian's Gate
A well-preserved Roman triumphal arch built in 130 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian, serving as a main entrance to Kaleiçi.
Tips: Visit during daylight to appreciate the intricate carvings and take photos without the need for artificial lighting.
Kaleiçi (Old Town)
The historic heart of Antalya, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and landmarks like Hadrian's Gate and the Yivli Minaret Mosque.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the uneven streets and explore the area in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Konyaaltı Beach
A 13 km stretch of pebbly beach with clear waters, backed by the Taurus Mountains, offering various water sports and leisure activities.
Tips: Facilities include changing rooms and showers; arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season.
Sandland (Antalya Sand Sculpture Museum)
An open-air museum featuring massive sand sculptures created by artists worldwide, with themes changing annually.
Tips: Visit in the evening to see the sculptures illuminated; check the current theme before visiting to enhance your experience.
Tünek Tepe
A 618-meter-high hill offering panoramic views of Antalya and the Gulf, accessible by a cable car ride.
Tips: Visit on clear days for the best views; the revolving restaurant at the top provides a unique dining experience.
Yivli Minaret Mosque
A 13th-century mosque known for its distinctive fluted minaret, a symbol of Antalya's skyline.
Tips: Respect dress codes when visiting; the mosque is an active place of worship, so plan visits outside prayer times.
Events & Festivals
Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival
An annual festival featuring opera and ballet performances held in the ancient Aspendos Theater, renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
When: June to July
Tips: Book tickets in advance due to high demand; arrive early to explore the historic theater.
Antalya Diplomacy Forum
An annual conference on international diplomacy, bringing together policymakers, diplomats, and academics to discuss global issues.
When: March
Tips: Check the official website for registration details; some sessions may be open to the public or require prior registration.
Runatolia Marathon
An international marathon event featuring various race categories, attracting runners from around the world.
When: March
Tips: Register in advance; familiarize yourself with the course and local weather conditions for optimal performance.
Antalya International Theater Festival
A festival showcasing a variety of theatrical performances from both local and international theater groups.
When: May
Tips: Review the festival program to select performances of interest; some shows may be in languages other than Turkish.
International Antalya Sand Sculpture Festival (Sandland)
An exhibition of intricate sand sculptures created by artists from around the world, held on Lara Beach.
When: May to October
Tips: Visit in the evening to see the sculptures illuminated; consider bringing a camera for photography.
International Antalya Piano Festival
A renowned festival hosting world-class pianists and musicians, offering a diverse range of performances from classical to jazz.
When: November to December
Tips: Purchase tickets early, as performances often sell out; consider attending multiple concerts to experience a variety of styles.
Alanya Triathlon
An international triathlon event consisting of swimming, cycling, and running races, attracting athletes worldwide.
When: October
Tips: Spectators should arrive early to secure good viewing spots; participants should register well in advance.
Kaleiçi Old Town Festival
A cultural festival celebrating the heritage of Antalya's historic Kaleiçi district with music, dance, and art performances.
When: October
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the cobblestone streets; explore local shops and eateries during the festival.
Alanya Jazz Festival
A festival featuring performances by world-famous jazz musicians, attracting music lovers to the region.
When: September
Tips: Plan accommodations in advance, as the festival draws large crowds; explore nearby attractions during the day.
Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival
Turkey's oldest and most prestigious film festival, showcasing national and international films and honoring outstanding cinematic achievements.
When: September to October
Tips: Check the official schedule for film screenings and related events; some events may require prior registration.