Antalya Attractions

With its many resorts, wrecks, beaches, and valleys, you'd need to try pretty hard to be bored in Antalya! This coastal city at the foot of the Taurus Mountains is one of Turkey's preferred tourist destinations. Here are ten reasons why!

About Antalya

In the city of Antalya, 435 miles (700 kilometers) south of Istanbul, history and nature intermingle to form culturally rich adventures unlike those found anywhere else in the world. Many of the region’s best attractions are several hours outside of town, but tours that include hotel pickup and drop-off make transportation a breeze.

Travelers can ride a glass-bottomed boat above the sunken island of Kekova (and see for themselves why this stretch of Turkey is nicknamed the Turquoise Coast); hike to the eternal fires of Yanartas on Mount Chimaera; or take a dip within the water flowing down white travertine terraces at Pamukkale Hot Springs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 150 miles (240 kilometers) from Antalya.

History buffs should beeline to Termessos Ancient City's Roman ruins or go beyond town limits to Perge, Side, Demre, Myra, and Aspendos. A Jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains allows you to discover landscapes and hidden villages that other travelers miss, while a cable-car ride up Mount Olympos offers panoramic views. Multi-day excursions to Cappadocia— around 335 miles (540 kilometers) from Antalya combine sights like the rock-cut castle of Uchisar and therefore the region’s famous fairy chimney rock formations in one action-packed trip.

Best Time to Visit Antalya

Antalya, a sun-kissed jewel on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, welcomes visitors year-round with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The ideal time to experience this coastal paradise is during the balmy months of April to May and September to October. During these golden seasons, the city basks in pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), perfect for exploring ancient ruins, strolling through charming old town alleys, or lounging on pristine beaches. While summer (June to August) offers glorious beach weather with temperatures soaring to 35°C (95°F), it also brings crowds and higher prices. Winter (November to March) sees fewer tourists and lower rates, with mild temperatures around 15°C (59°F), ideal for sightseeing and experiencing local life. However, some coastal attractions may have limited hours during this quieter season.

Cruise liner passengers can make the most of their limited time with fully planned shore excursions. If you are just passing through Antalya, it’s easy to streamline your travel plans in Turkey with private airport transfers to popular destinations like Kemer, Belek, or Kas Kalkan. lots of attractions, you'll visit there. Let’s check the simplest of them!
 

Yivli Minaret (Alaaddin Mosque, Center) 

 It is in the city center of Antalya. It is the minaret of Alaaddin Mosque, which was converted into a mosque in 1230 by Seljuk Sultan, Alaaddin Keykubat. Catching one's eyes at the first look, Yivli Minaret is considered a symbol of the city. As its structure is cut up into slices by bricks, and constructed with 8 pieces of semi-cylindrical shape, it is named as Yivli Minaret. A very thick body had gained an aesthetic structure due to these grooves. Turquoise and dark blue colored Allah and Mohammad words are written in every direction on the floor.
 

Kesik Minare Mosque (Korkut Mosque - Cami - i Kebir, Center)

 
A period piece of art, the mosque was previously constructed as Panagelia Church in the name of the Virgin Mary by Byzantium during the 5th A.D. and turned into a mosque by Sehzade Korkut during Bayezit II. It is also known as Korkut Mosque or Cami-i Kebir due to this reason. It was renamed Kesik Minaret as the mosque was destroyed after a fire in 1851.
 

Kale Mosque (Sultan Suleyman Mosque, Alanya)
 

Nestled on the west side of Alanya's shipyard, a magnificent mosque stands as a testament to Turkey's rich history. Originally crafted by the visionary Seljuk Sultan, Alaaddin Keykubad I, this architectural gem later caught the eye of the great Sultan Suleyman. Between 1530 and 1566, Suleyman breathed new life into the structure, earning it the affectionate moniker "Sultan Suleyman Mosque." Today, it beckons visitors to marvel at its beauty and immerse themselves in centuries of Islamic artistry and devotion.

Saint Nicholas Church (Kale - Demre)
 

Myra (Demre) is known as the place where Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus (Father Christmas) in the Christian world, had performed his duty as a bishop. Moreover, the church was constructed during the 6th century as a memorial to Saint Nicholas after his death. Some remnants of Saint Nicholas's tomb which has been stolen to Bari city by Italian sailors during the second half of our century are currently exhibited in the Antalya Museum. The International Santa Claus (Father Christmas) Festival organized every year in Kale(Demre) and Kas between December 6-8 turns into a symposium where foreigners have also participated in Antalya recently.

 
Aya Yorgi Church (Alanya)
 

Nestled within the ancient walls of Alanya Castle, a captivating church whispers tales of bygone eras. Historians believe this architectural gem emerged during the 6th century A.D., a testament to Byzantine craftsmanship and devotion. As you wander through its hallowed halls, imagine the echoes of prayers and the flicker of candlelight that have graced this sacred space for over 1,500 years.

Exploring its historic center may be a delightful thanks to get to understand town, and settling right down to drink a java while watching the planet pass may be a heavenly experience. Dripping in history, this glorious city will introduce you not only to present-day Turkey but also to the wealth of civilizations that have gone through this corner of the world over the ages.

If you are interested in visiting this stunning spot! Don’t miss out on those amazing attractions in Antalya with our Turkey Travel Packages!
 
Antalya Termessos of Turkey
Antalya - Limyra of Turkey
Antalya Archaeological Museum of Turkey
Damlatas Caves in Turkey
Karain Cave in Turkey
Demre in Turkey
Belek in Turkey
Kas in Turkey

FAQs

Q1: What are the must-visit religious sites in Antalya? 
Imagine stepping into a world where centuries of faith have left their mark on sun-kissed shores. Antalya's religious tapestry is woven with awe-inspiring sites that will stir your soul such as The majestic Yivli Minare Mosque, The ancient St. Nicholas Church in Demre, The mystical Kesik Minare Mosque, The serene Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque, and The hidden gem of Karain Cave.

Q2: When is the best time to experience faith tourism in Antalya?
Picture yourself wandering through Antalya's sacred spaces as golden light bathes ancient stones and the air carries the faint scent of incense. The most enchanting time to embark on your spiritual journey is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these magical months, Antalya's climate is a gentle embrace, perfect for contemplative walks through historic sites and peaceful moments of reflection. The summer crowds have dispersed, leaving you to experience the city's religious wonders in tranquil reverence. As an added blessing, you might witness colorful religious festivals that bring Antalya's faith heritage to vibrant life.

Q3: How can I respectfully visit religious sites in Antalya? 
Embarking on a faith tourism journey in Antalya is like stepping into a living museum of devotion. To honor these sacred spaces you need to follow some rules such as dressing modestly, and covering your shoulders and knees. For women, carrying a scarf to cover your head in mosques is a thoughtful gesture. Remove your shoes before entering mosques, a simple act of respect that connects you to centuries of tradition. Speak softly and move gently, allowing the peaceful atmosphere to envelop you and other visitors. Ask permission before taking photographs, especially of worshippers. and Consider timing your visits outside of prayer times for mosques, unless you're invited to observe.
By approaching each site with reverence, you will not only show respect but also open yourself to a deeper, more meaningful experience of Antalya's rich spiritual heritage.

Q4: Are there guided faith tours available in Antalya? 
Imagine having a knowledgeable companion to guide you through Antalya's labyrinth of faith, unveiling hidden stories and sacred secrets at every turn. Yes, Antalya offers a wealth of guided faith tours that bring its religious history to life! From expert-led walks through the old town's mosques to comprehensive journeys exploring Christian heritage sites, there's a tour to suit every spiritual seeker. Some tours even combine visits to multiple faiths' holy places, offering a unique perspective on Antalya's diverse religious tapestry. For a truly immersive experience, consider a tour that includes meetings with local religious communities or participation in traditional ceremonies. These heart-warming encounters will leave you with memories to cherish long after you've returned home.

Q5: Can I experience local religious festivals in Antalya? 
Absolutely! Antalya's religious calendar is a vibrant tapestry of celebrations that will enchant your senses and touch your soul. Imagine the streets coming alive with the joyous atmosphere of Ramadan, where the evening air is filled with the aroma of festive foods and the sound of prayers. If you're visiting in December, you might catch the St. Nicholas Commemoration Day in Demre, a beautiful blend of spiritual reverence and festive cheer. Throughout the year, various saints' days and religious holidays paint the city with color and tradition. To truly immerse yourself in these celebrations, consider staying with a local family or joining a community iftar during Ramadan. These heartwarming experiences will not only deepen your understanding of Antalya's living faith but also create connections that transcend cultural boundaries.