7 days in Antalya, Turkey: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Nestled along the turquoise coast of Turkey, Antalya is a vibrant city that effortlessly combines ancient history with modern attractions. With its sun-soaked beaches, awe-inspiring ancient ruins, and mouthwatering cuisine, Antalya is sure to steal your heart. Whether you’re exploring the narrow streets of the charming Old Town (Kaleiçi), or soaking up the sun on the splendid Konyaaltı Beach, this coastal gem will leave a lasting impression on your travel memories.
Things to consider before arriving to Antalya
Affordable destination with a variety of accommodation options
Rich cultural and historical experiences just around the corner
It can get quite hot during the summer, especially July and August
♀️ Antalya is perfect for history buffs, beach lovers, and food enthusiasts alike
What to bring with you
Make sure to pack the following essentials:
– Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
– Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
– A light jacket or sweater for cool evenings
– Swimsuit for taking a dip in the Mediterranean Sea
– A travel adapter for charging your electronic devices
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Antalya is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing without the extreme heat.
How to get into the city
1. By air: Antalya International Airport (AYT) is well-connected with major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a car to reach the city center.
2. By bus: There are intercity buses from several cities in Turkey, like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, that arrive at the Antalya Bus Terminal (Otogar). From there, you can easily hop on a city bus or taxi to reach your final destination.
3. By car: Renting a car and driving along the stunning Turkish coastline is a memorable journey. Pick up a rental car from major cities, like Istanbul, and enjoy the scenic drive to Antalya.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Antalya, Turkey
Day 1: Old Town (Kaleiçi)
Start your trip by exploring the historic Kaleiçi neighborhood, with its narrow winding streets lined with Ottoman-era buildings and boutique shops. Highlights include the ancient Hadrian’s Gate, the Antalya Museum, and the picturesque old harbor. Make sure to end your day with a traditional Turkish dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Day 2: Beach Day at Lara Beach
Spend a day soaking up the sun at the famous Lara Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. You can rent a sunbed and umbrella or bring your own, and there are plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
Day 3: Düden Waterfalls and Manavgat Market
Take a day trip to the stunning Düden Waterfalls, where you can watch the cascading water and even take a boat ride to get up close to the falls. Later in the day, head to the bustling Manavgat Market, where you can browse local handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce.
Day 4: Perge and Aspendos
Explore the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos, both located a short drive from Antalya. Perge features a well-preserved Roman theater, while Aspendos is home to one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
Day 5: Antalya Aquarium and MiniCity
Discover the underwater world at the Antalya Aquarium, which features over 40 exhibits and a huge shark tunnel. Afterwards, head to MiniCity, a miniature model of Turkey’s most famous landmarks.
Day 6: Sagalassos and Köprülü Canyon National Park
Venture outside the city to explore the ancient city of Sagalassos, which boasts a stunning amphitheater and a fascinating Archaeological Museum. Afterwards, take a dip in the refreshing waters of Köprülü Canyon National Park, where you can go rafting, hiking, or simply relax by the river.
Day 7: Antalya at Night
Experience the lively nightlife of Antalya, with its countless bars, clubs, and restaurants. Highlights include the Marina, with its upscale bars and restaurants, and the Kaleiçi neighborhood, which comes alive at night with street performers and live music.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Antalya
If you’re looking to continue your travels after exploring Antalya, we suggest heading to the stunning limestone terraces of Pamukkale, located just under 4 hours away by car. Alternatively, you can visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus, which can be reached via a short flight or a 7-hour drive. Both destinations are must-sees for history and nature buffs alike.
