Antalya Beyond the Beach: Places Worth Exploring

Antalya is often pictured as an endless stretch of beaches, resorts and sun loungers. But step away from the usual holiday routine and you will discover a very different side of the region — ancient streets, hidden coves, waterfalls and unforgettable trips that are worth adding a few extra days to your stay.

The best place to begin is Kaleiçi, Antalya’s Old Town. Wander through its cobbled lanes lined with Ottoman houses, walk down to the historic harbour and experience centuries of local history in a single afternoon. About half an hour from the city centre lies Perge, the ancient capital of Pamphylia, with its colonnaded street, Roman baths and impressive stadium.

Then it is time to return to the water. For brilliant turquoise sea, take a boat trip to Suluada, often called the “Turkish Maldives.” If you prefer peaceful places that cannot be reached from the shore, choose a cruise to Sazak and Porto Ceneviz bays, where clear water, pine-covered slopes and lunch on board replace the crowds of the city beaches.

Another highlight is the Düden Waterfalls. The Lower Düden is especially dramatic: the water drops from the cliffs directly into the Mediterranean, and the most impressive view is from a sightseeing boat. For a more active day, head to Köprülü Canyon for rafting on a mountain river, a zipline above the gorge or an off-road safari.

Ready to travel a little farther? Pamukkale makes a memorable day trip, with its white travertine terraces, warm mineral waters and the ancient city of Hierapolis nearby. Cappadocia deserves at least two days: its rock-cut towns, otherworldly valleys and hot-air balloons at sunrise are well worth the longer journey.

For an easy itinerary, combine Kaleiçi and Düden in one day, then reserve a full day for Perge, a boat trip or Köprülü Canyon. You will see more without turning your holiday into a race.

Before You Set Off

💵 Before an excursion, boat trip or journey out of town, it is useful to have Turkish lira ready for tickets, meals and souvenirs. Instead of searching for an exchange office just before departure, stop by CoinPoint.

📍 CoinPoint offices in Antalya: Liman · MarkAntalya · Lara

Choose your route, pack your sense of adventure and discover Antalya beyond the beach ☀️