Antalya, Turkey is a place that could easily be mistaken as having landed you in the garden of eden. With clear vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded with a backdrop of lush green foliage, dramatic hilltops and terracotta adorned houses scattered in between - you’ll feel like you’ve found yourself within a picture perfect postcard. Between the yacht-filled harbour and the dramatic mountains, Antalya lies in Turkey’s south - offering tourists a whole host of things to do, delicious food and drink to savour and ample opportunity to make memories. In this blog, we’re going to give you a guide to Turkey’s Antalya, so that you can plan your perfect Mediterranean trip to its shores.

Sightseeing in Antalya

I don’t know about you but, whenever I travel abroad, one of the first things I do (after lathering myself in SPF) is make a beeline for the Old Town and Antalya’s Old Town should be top of your list of things to do in Turkey. Kaleiçi, the heart of Antalya's Old Town, is steeped in history, with charming Ottoman-era houses and boutique shops. Don’t miss the iconic Hadrian’s Gate, a triumphal arch built in honour of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Whilst in the Old Town you can meander through the streets, shop in local boutiques and enjoy traditional food and drink in the cafes and restaurants scattered through Kaleiçi.

For a cultural experience, visit the Antalya Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts from the region’s history. And let’s not forget Aspendos Theatre, one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. The acoustics here are so perfect that it still hosts performances today - yet another of the great things to do in Turkey!

Activities: Thrills and Chills

Antalya offers a plethora of activities for the adventurous at heart so fear not, if you’re a thrill seeker, there’s plenty of things to do in Turkey to itch that scratch. 

You can dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and explore the vibrant marine life. Take your snorkel, or book a scuba diving experience to see the underwater discoveries that await. Kas is a popular spot for diving, with numerous underwater caves and shipwrecks to discover. Or, if you prefer to stay above water, try paragliding over the stunning Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon. The adrenaline rush as you soar above the water below is an experience you won't forget.

For nature lovers, another of the things to do in Antalya is visit the Düden Waterfalls. The lower falls cascade into the Mediterranean Sea, creating a mesmerising view. If you're up for a hike, head to the Köprülü Canyon National Park, where you can explore ancient ruins and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. 

Must-Try Food and Drink in Antalya

Mealtimes are one of my favourite times of day when I’m travelling  - sampling new food and drink offerings, washed down with a delicious cocktail and mulling over the day, bliss - and Turkey doesn’t disappoint. Antalya's culinary scene is a delicious mix of traditional Turkish dishes, delightful street food, and dining experiences with stunning views. 

Here, we’ve compiled a list of the best food offerings in Antalya and where to find them:

Traditional Turkish Cuisine

If you’re in Antalya, you simply must indulge in Antalya's famous kebabs, including Adana and Iskender, often served with sides like rice or pide (a traditional Turkish flatbread to you and I). 

And, who doesn’t love a meze? And a Turkish meze is something to be reckoned with. Meze platters featuring hummus and dolma make for perfect appetiser-style sharing, while the abundance of fresh seafood like grilled fish and calamari highlights the city's coast. Traditional Turkish food and drink really is divine. 

Recommended Eateries:

7 Mehmet stands out with its array of delicious kebabs and meze platters, complemented by classic Turkish desserts. The restaurant is celebrated for its warm hospitality and remains a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

Dining with a View

For another of the foodie things to do in Turkey, you can find the perfect spot teetered in Antalya’s skyline. Many restaurants in Antalya are strategically located to enhance the dining experience for its visitors with stunning views. Whether it’s along the old town's harbour, Lara Beach, or Konyaaltı Beach, these spots provide a picturesque backdrop that complements the delicious local cuisine. Because half the taste in any meal is the setting in which you’re enjoying it, right?

Recommended Eateries:

Seraser Fine Dining offers a refined eating experience, blending contemporary Turkish and Mediterranean flavours. Located in a historic building, this restaurant has a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for those looking to enjoy a meal with a view of the stunning Bosphorus Strait.

The Ultimate Turkish Breakfast

In Turkey, breakfast is a ritual, not simply a meal, and a traditional Turkish breakfast is like no breakfast I’ve ever experienced before - making it one of the top things to do in Turkey. Trust me. Antalya's breakfast scene is a feast for the senses. 

Recommended Eateries:

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, where you can savour a variety of cheeses, olives, and freshly baked bread. Your hunger will be well and truly satiated. 

Street Food Delights

Street food isn’t just about the food, it's an authentic and delicious experience and should really be on your list of things to do in Turkey. The street food in Antalya offers a taste of local life with treats such as gözleme, a savoury flatbread filled with ingredients like spinach or minced meat, and köfte, spiced meatballs served in pita bread. Or, for sweet lovers you simply must sample a traditional baklava, a flaky pastry soaked in sweet syrup. Drool!

After Dinner Drinks

For a lively evening, head to Tipsy Old Town in the historic Sultanahmet neighbourhood and is the go-to spot. Known for its energetic atmosphere, it features an extensive selection of Turkish and international wines and traditional Turkish meze dishes, along with live music performances that add to the holiday mood.

As you plan your trip, keep Antalya high on your list of places to see and things to do in Turkey. Between its incredible food and drink scene, stunning scenery and exciting culture, it really does have something for everyone. So, whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, there’s something in Antalya waiting for you to discover it. Now all you need to do is book your ticket.