Explore the captivating beauty of Antalya, Turkey.
Welcome to HON Travel Tips. In this latest blog post, I will present a 7-day itinerary for exploring Antalya, Turkey, one of my favorite place in the world.
Kaleiçi Old Town, Antalya
April, May, September and October are pleasantly warm, with temperatures of 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), so are typically the best times to visit Turkey's grand array of ancient sites. The summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast.
DAY 1:
Arrive in Antalya and check into your accommodation. Once of my absolutely favorite hotels is Tuvana, an enchanting boutique hotel housed within an 18th-century villa, is nestled in the Kaleiçi district, at the very heart of the Old City. This prime location offers easy access to some of the most renowned attractions, including the Clock Tower, Hadrian's Gate, Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque, Truncated & Fluted Minaret, Roman fortress, and the Old Harbour.
On your initial day, embark on a journey through the picturesque alleys and historic landmarks of the Old Town, known as Kaleici. Pay a visit to the iconic Hadrian's Gate and meander through the charming streets adorned with shops and eateries. In the evening, there's no need to venture far, as the hotel's restaurant, Searaser, awaits you with its delightful international menu offerings infused with traditional flavors and a captivating ambiance. I had the privilege of celebrating my birthday at this exceptional restaurant, and the entire team went above and beyond to make it an unforgettable and personalized dining experience.
DAY 2:
Spend the day relaxing and soaking up the sun at one of my favorite rocky beaches, Lara Balık Port Beach.
The beach is owned by Lara Balik restaurant, but you can still go swimming after paying the entrance fee and the sunbed fee of 150 – 250 TL per day. Lara Balık is among Antalya’s top seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy the catch of the day by the shore, with ocean views from the breezy terrace. Menu favorites include grilled seabass, calamari and shrimps. Immerse yourself in the inviting, crystal-clear warmth of the waters, and make your way for a refreshing swim towards one of Antalya's enchanting waterfalls.
As night falls, treat yourself to a delectable seafood dinner at Karma Restaurant, an exquisite waterfront dining establishment located in the heart of the ancient Side. To end your night, visit Karma Restaurant’s Night Club.
DAY 3:
Explore the ancient city of Phaselis, situated in the Tekirova district of Kemer, which was established by the Rhodians in the 6th century BC. This historical gem boasts an ancient theater, an agora, well-preserved baths, and an aqueduct, making it a captivating site for history enthusiasts. Additionally, within the confines of the ancient city lies the picturesque bay of Phaselis, offering exclusive beaches where you can bask in the joy of swimming in the pristine, warm waters of the Mediterranean or rent a paddleboard for some aquatic adventure.
Return to Antalya and enjoy a relaxing evening strolling along the Kaleiçi Marina and savoring a meal or fish at Yelken Café Restaurant.
DAY 4:
Set sail on a boat excursion to the Turkish Maldives, tracing the picturesque Antalya coastline. This unspoiled island is a hidden gem, boasting pristine waters and powdery white sands. Delight in a refreshing swim in the turquoise sea, soak up the sun on your boat's deck, and revel in the breathtaking vistas. Accessible exclusively by boat, the island may appear unassuming from a distance, but as you draw nearer, you'll be astounded by the crystalline clarity of its waters, evoking the charm of the Maldives.
In the evening visit Duden Waterfalls and witness the cascading water surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, visit The Chill Hookah Lounge located walking distance from the Duden Park.
DAY 5:
Embark on a captivating day excursion to explore the ancient ruins of Aspendos, an extraordinary Greco-Roman city nestled in Turkey. Notably, it houses one of antiquity's most impeccably preserved theaters, dating back to approximately 155 AD. Turkey boasts a wealth of ancient ruins, and among them stand some of the finest Roman remnants to this day. Even following the decline of the Western Roman Empire, the Eastern Roman Empire persevered in the east, gradually evolving into the Greek-influenced Byzantine Empire.
Extend your journey to the nearby ancient city of Perge, where you'll uncover a treasure trove of remarkable ruins, including a grand theater, an imposing stadium, and well-preserved Roman baths.
Return to Antalya and enjoy a delightful dinner savoring the flavors of Turkish cuisine at Vanilla Lounge Restaurant. They offer warm and relaxed dining in a contemporary setting, fused with traditional Ottoman architecture.
DAY 6:
Take a break from the city and Discover the enchanting Patara Beach, a magnificent expanse that ranks among Turkey's largest and enjoys natural protection. Here, you'll be captivated by the awe-inspiring backdrop of Lycia's soaring limestone peaks and the golden-hued sand dunes. These dunes provide an ideal vantage point for admiring spectacular sunsets and have graced the screens of numerous Turkish films.Patara Beach offers a plethora of activities, including thrilling options like rafting, horseback riding, and canoeing along the Dalaman River. Furthermore, it serves as a vital nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead turtles, providing a chance to witness their hatchings if you're fortunate.
While in the area, don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby ancient city of Patara, renowned for its impeccably preserved ruins, including a grand theater and Roman baths.
Head back to Antalya and relish delectable cuisine at Asmani Restaurant, an exquisite rooftop dining establishment that offers sweeping panoramic vistas of Meredithian Sea.
DAY 7:
Get ready to embark on your dream Pamukkale journey! Join our knowledgeable local English-speaking tour guide and to take you on a journey to Pamukkale, renowned as the "Cotton Castle" of Turkey. Revel in the stunning scenery adorned with turquoise springs and the cascading white limestone slopes. Take a refreshing dip amidst the Roman Columns at Cleopatra's Pool and explore the treasures of the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum.
Beyond the therapeutic allure of its waters, the travertine pools of Pamukkale are encircled by captivating ruins and historical sites, adding a layer of historical richness to your experience.
In the evening, treat yourself to an authentic Turkish dining experience at White House Restaurant & Cafe, located in Pamukkale.
Antalya's charm lies in its capacity to provide a wide array of experiences within its compact confines, rendering it a hidden treasure in the realm of travel.
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