The best of Antalya – my favourite coastal city in Turkey

Antalya, beautiful Antalya. I was keen to get back here, walking through the old town again, enjoying the culture, the shopping and the vibe. I would say it is certainly one of the prettiest city in Turkey and one of my favourite spots to visit. The old town Kaleiçi, however, is not the only thing to enjoy in Antalya. There is lots to do in the prettiest city in Turkey. Let me show you the best of Antalya.

Kaleiçi – the old town of Antalya

I usually don’t stay in Hotels that are inside the old towns, as it can be quite noisy and hard to get to (due to narrow roads). However, I feel like in Antalya it is the only place to stay. Yes, it is noisy and the rooms are small, but the vibe of being amongst it all is just amazing. From little local shops to plenty of restaurants and hotels with pretty courtyards, Kaleiçi is like a maze. You can get lost wandering around, but you will always find the Hadrians Gate. Furthermore, there is plenty of old characteristics to see on each corner and street and I love taking photos of it.

You can of course find plenty of restored shops and hotels as well. Apparently there are strict rules on renovations to keep the old town the prettiest city in Turkey. I would agree with that!

Small tip: Find a hotel that is away from the bars and restaurants. There is plenty to choose from. And you will get a better sleep as well.

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The best of Antalya continues outside of Kaleiçi.

Aspendos – the most complete ancient theatre

The Aspendos Theatre is the best preserved theatre of antiquity, matching perfectly into the landscape. It is, for a change, not on top of a hill, but sitting at the bottom of the city. So it makes sense that it has been well looked after all those years.

Even now it is still used for open-air performances and film screenings. It is quite stunning. That said, you need a car to get here from Antalya, unless you book a tour or cab, but I highly recommend a visit.

I also like the legend that I have found on the Turkish Archealogical site, so I had to copy it. It’s a great story:

The Legend of the Aspendos Theatre

According to a legend, the construction of this theatre resulted from the competition organised by the ruler of Aspendos. The aim of this competition was to build a structure that will contribute most to the city’s prosperity. The winner was to be awarded the daughter of the ruler. Two competitors qualified to the final round. The first of them constructed the system of canals and aqueducts that supplied Aspendos with running water. The ruler was almost convinced to give him the hand of his daughter but decided to visit the theatre, built by the second competitor, for the last time.

When he stood on the highest point of the theatre, suddenly a clear voice whispered directly into his ear: ‘Your daughter must be mine!’ When he looked around in surprise, he saw the builder of the theatre standing on the scene. The theatre’s acoustics impressed the ruler so much that he immediately decided in favour of its builder. The wedding took place, naturally, in the theatre itself.

For more history read here.

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The Waterfalls – Kursunlu and Düden

To have a change from the ruins I decided to visit the two Waterfalls in Antalya. The Kursunlu Waterfalls sit north of Antalya, the prettiest city in Turkey, just after Perga. The area looked like a little park complex created mainly for tourists. I walked the loop, took a few photos and left. It was pretty but I would say it is more for a family with kids.

I had the car for two days, one used for hiking and the second day to explore Aspendos and the Waterfalls.

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The Düden Waterfall was the total opposite. There are two Düden Falls, the upper and the lower. Formed by a recycle water station, the lower Düden Waterfall drops off a rocky cliff directly into the Mediterranean Sea. And that is pretty amazing to see. And free!

It was nice to explore more of Antalya this time. Last time I was here, my trip in Turkey has just began. Read more of my Turkey travels here.

Furthermore, while you are in Antalya, make a visit to the ancient city of Perga. I have visited Perga last time already, while I was in Antalya, (read here) and decided not to go back this time. However I would recommend a visit.

I have also completed a hike to the ancient city Termessos, north of Antalya. It should belong to the ’best of Antalya’ summary, however I will write a seperate blog about it soon. It was a great experience.

I hope you enjoyed my summary of the prettiest city in Turkey. Because after Antalya follows the cute beach town Kaş. And that is certainly the spot to see. So stay tuned!

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