Natalie If you are asking why is Antalya so popular, we can list hundreds of reasons. But let us start with some stats that prove the popularity. Antalya welcomes roughly 16 million international travellers every year, and now ranks alongside Istanbul. Add to this the status as one of Turkey’s top expat hubs, and you an ideal destination.
The rising popularity also features among foreign home buyers. Antalya, Turkey’s second busiest housing market, attracts many nationalities. They are interested in holiday homes, permanent residences, buy-to-let rental properties, and making wise real estate investments. In addition, the lovely beaches, all-inclusive hotels, clubs, rich history, and the entire coastline excel at everything.
So, millions of tourists and expats cannot be wrong in choosing to visit and live there. To be clear, we refer to the whole region comprising the main city centre, smaller coastal resorts, and inland villages. This blog covers the region and examines why people love it.
Why is Antalya so Popular?
1: Easy to Get There
Most visitors to this popular holiday destination arrive via the ultramodern airport, Turkey’s top tourist air travel hub. With global flights year-round, the geographical position promises short transfer times to places like Belek, Kemer, and the popular tourist destinations of Lara Beach and Konyaalti. The impressive international and domestic terminals also make travelling easy. Aside from that, Antalya covers the D400 coast road from east to west of Turkey and is a central sailing hub, making it easy to get there by road or sea.
2: Turkey’s Best Weather Climate
Turkey has several climate zones; but for the hottest summers and mild winters, choose Antalya. While January and February are rainy months that hamper outdoor plans, there are 300 days of sunshine a year. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching the mid-40s, emphasising an ideal place for holidays. Such is the delightful weather; expats and Turks head there during Christmas and New Year.
3: Popular Beaches and the Beautiful Coastline
The region covers 600 kilometres of coastline and secluded bays. Please don’t assume they are regular beaches, though, because Antalya features the best-ranked beaches in Turkey.
Cleopatra Beach: The name stems from urban legends that Roman emperor Marc Anthony once met his lover Queen Cleopatra for a romantic rendezvous here. The beach also sits near the famous Damlatas cave, which, due to the humidity, is good for breathing ailments.
Konyaalti Beach: Located in the city centre, Konyaalti features a lovely promenade full of green parks, children’s playgrounds, and cafes. It is a mainly pebbly beach stretching for 13 kilometres on the city’s western side. Despite the small size, Konyaalti hosts thousands of tourists every year.
Lara Beach: Home to the annual sand festival and all-inclusive themed hotels, Lara Beach is nicknamed Turkey’s version of Las Vegas. Located on the city’s eastern side and consisting mainly of sand, it is a fantastic place to spend summer days.
Kaputas: On the outskirts, reached by a long, winding flight of steps, crystal blue waters make Kaputas famous. It isn’t for people with walking difficulties, and you don’t have varied amenities, but this is what makes it famous alongside those amazing views.
Patara: Further west is Patara, Turkey’s longest beach, stretching 18 kilometres. As well as being a windsurfing hub, Patara attracts the endangered Caretta turtle. The sandy beach has oodles of space and sits near the ancient ruins and rustic villages of the same name.
4: Excellent Shopping and Nightlife Scenes
So, what is there to do aside from beautiful beaches? Expect the best nightlife and shopping scenes in Turkey’s Mediterranean region. Shops and colourful bazaars range from traditional, weekly markets to spend your Turkish liras on souvenirs to large shopping malls like Terracity, which outrival those in other countries. Likewise, nightlife ranges from quiet and serene to fast-paced, as seen in sit-down roof terrace bars, seaside restaurants, and large nightclubs featuring famous DJs.
5: Fascinating History and Ancient Sites
Antalya’s vibrant history left behind traces in historic sites like Aspendos, an ancient Greco-Roman city, Phaselis, Myra ancient city, Alanya’s Red Tower and castle, Kekova sunken ancient ruins and more. Aspendos draws in huge crowds because of the magnificent and perfectly preserved theatre. The central landmark, seating 12,000, often fills up with audiences eager to appreciate performances by the Antalya International Opera and Ballet Festival. Receiving global recognition from historians and archaeologists, visitors to Aspendos tour nearby ancient structures of a basilica, agora and Roman aqueduct.
6: Narrow Streets of Kaleici Old Town
Exploring the narrow, cobbled streets of Kaleici, otherwise known as the old town. Hadrian’s gate, leading into it, was built to honour the 2nd-century Roman emperor of the same name. Some stories of famous people who have walked through it should be ignored, such as the Queen of Sheba, who reigned long before it was ever built.
Book into an old restored Ottoman hotel to soak up nostalgic vibes, then start exploring to discover magnificent Ottoman architecture in nearby ancient mosques and landmark Hidirlik Tower. Meander through souvenir shops and cruise the coastline before sitting in a restaurant overlooking the harbour to witness the fantastic sunset views.
Sitting near the relaxing Karaalioglu Park and Mermerli Beach, places like Yivli Minare Mosque have put it on the map. Antalya’s history dates back to the 7th century BC, so there are several tales for foreign tourists to uncover.
7: Gorgeous Waterfalls
In keeping with landmarks of natural beauty, Antalya has roughly 20 waterfalls, all flowing from the Taurus Mountain range into Turkey’s Mediterranean Sea. Three are famous and considered must-see attractions.
Lower Duden waterfalls, sitting just outside the main city centre, are best viewed from a boat trip, while Kursunlu waterfall, although not as large, lies in scenic pine forests. Lastly, the fast rushing water of Manavgat waterfalls is more about length than height, but all three can be combined on a day trip sold by travel agents who have plenty more ideas of things to do.
8: Golfing in Belek – An Excellent Destination
We rarely name-drop, but famous golfers have played in Belek, Turkey’s golfing capital. They include Tiger Woods and Barack Obama when Belek hosted the G20 summit. Well-known names like Nick Faldo designed Cornelia and other courses. Belek now ranks among Spain and Portugal as top golfing destinations. For the top 2 golf courses, try Carya Golf Club and Montgomerie Maxx Royal Golf Club.
9: The Lycian Way Trekking Route
Antalya is home to the famous Lycian Way, Turkey’s longest trekking trail. It includes numerous ancient cities dating from centuries ago and spectacular views. Stretching 500 kilometres to Turkey’s Fethiye area, most trekkers complete it in sections. Otherwise, completing the trek and seeing the historical sites would take about three months, so campsites and boutique hotels accept overnight bookings.
10: Adventure Sports Galore
Adrenaline junkies have various activities to enjoy. Scuba diving is widespread, and because schools sell try dives and lessons, it attracts inexperienced and first-time divers. Go para-gliding in delightful Kas or white-water rafting in Koprulu Canyon. Most water sports centres on beaches sell parasailing or jet ski sessions. Also, visit Ucagiz to kayak over Kekova sunken ruins or buy tours from experienced companies for canyoning and mountain bike trails.
11: Cosmopolitan Vibes
This bustling city and surrounding resorts welcome everyone. Russians, Germans, and Brits lead tourism statistics, but in recent years, Middle Eastern and Asian nationalities have joined the trend. Some 5-star hotels now host extravagant weddings for wealthy and influential Indians, who bring 200-plus guests on the plane with them.
12: The Turkish Rivera and Boat Trips
The Turquoise coast makes up a massive part of Turkey’s Riviera. Unlike the equivalent in other countries like France, the Rivera covers small towns, villages, and historical ruins. Antalya, a central sailing hub, is popular with international yachts that sail these crystal-clear waters. During summer, boats depart from harbours every morning for relaxing day cruises around the coastline. Otherwise, a popular route is the three-night, four-day trip to Fethiye, further along the Mediterranean coast.
13: Land of Legends Theme Park
For families, Land of Legends park easily wins hands down. Shopping streets, themed hotels, and water-spinning rides have led some to call it Turkey’s version of Disneyland. Sitting in Belek, just 40 minutes from Antalya city, the water park entertains kids of all ages. Thanks to excellent facilities, all-inclusive family holidays are popular here. As Turkey’s largest theme park, you never need to leave. There are two sections: Adventure Land and The Bear Land of Laughter.
14: Mount Tahtali and Olympus Teleferik
From historical to natural landmarks of beauty, anyone in the nationally protected Olympus Park can see the domineering Mount Tahtali from anywhere. However, foreign tourists enjoy the cable car ride up Mount Tahtali to explore outside the modern city centre. With comprehensive views of the southern coast and blue waters, the incredible views are really jaw-dropping.
Thanks to the beautiful scenery, it is the perfect spot for romance and adventure and a top tourist destination. Tourists ascend 2365 metres in a cable car to see amazing views, including at sunset. Using the marketing slogan “from sea to sky,” they travel back down in the cable car or enjoy a tandem ride with a paraglider.
15: Antalya Aquarium
Expect educational themes and natural wonders with a fun twist, ensuring undying loyalty from families. As home to forty aquariums and a long tunnel of 131 meters, explore underwater and reptile species in the Wild Park Section while the ice museum is a favourite playground for kids.
Ocean Ride XD Cinema makes it seem like you are swimming with deadly beasts like the shark or watching smaller sharks in the Atlantis-themed section. Antalya Aquarium particularly appeals to families but is fun for all ages.
16: Antalya Archaeological Museum
Even if you aren’t a history fan, Antalya Archaeological Museum opens your eyes to bygone eras. Often called one of Turkey’s best museums, the diverse collection of artefacts has won worldwide recognition. The Roman Heracles sarcophagus depicting his 12 labours was smuggled out of Turkey 50 years ago and returned in 2017 after a lengthy legal six-year battle in Switzerland.
People Also Ask
What is the Famous Street in Antalya?
Ataturk Boulevard, the most famous street, runs alongside the ruins of Kaleici’s old town and is popular thanks to numerous shops, cafes, and sculptures. Lined with palm trees, the street is everything a beautiful city should have. There are also several benches to sit and watch the world go by.
Who Visits Antalya the Most?
This year, Antalya hosted more than 180 nationalities, which makes it like a mini version of the United Nations. However, the main nationalities include Russians, Germans, and British holidaymakers.
What is the Most Popular Place in Antalya?
Antalya city attracts the most visitors because of its beaches, shopping, nightlife, and attractions. However, more tourists are heading to Alanya. It is worth noting that places like Cirali and Olympos are small villages, so they don’t host thousands of visitors, yet they are popular tourist attractions for the burning flames and ancient ruins. Other popular towns and villages include….
City Centre: The heart, a bustling metropolis filled with historical significance and modern conveniences, is just 40 minutes from the airport. Kaleiçi features narrow cobblestone streets with beautifully preserved Ottoman-era houses. The iconic Hadrian’s Gate and ancient Roman harbour add to the historical allure, while vibrant nightlife, shopping centres, and cultural events are the best on the Med.
Bustling Alanya: Situated east, Alanya is famed for Clepatras Beach, Alanya Castle, Red Tower and an ancient shipyard, alongside modern amenities. Alanya’s long, sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing and water sports, while bustling markets and nightlife cater to diverse tastes. Although not as widely used, Alanya can be reached via Gazipasa Airport. Dim Cayi National Park sits nearby, which is ideal for seeing the beautiful nature of Turkey. Also, visit Damlatas cave.
Historical Side: This small town is delightful and boasts an archaeological history. The ancient theatre and the Temple of Apollo attract history enthusiasts, and all-inclusive hotels attract international holidaymakers. While there, tourists visit Manavgat waterfall to relax in tea gardens before heading onto the weekly, traditional market.
Golfing Belek: Belek boasts luxurious spa resorts and championship golf courses that have hosted Tiger Woods. It was once the location for the G20 summit. The expat profile has risen, and more people are buying holiday homes to get away from the crowds of Antalya city centre. Nearby attractions include Aspendos and the Legends theme park.
Kemer: Located west, Kemer attracts crowds for the beaches and all-inclusive hotels. However, several attractions are within a short ride, including the famous Goynuk Canyon. The bustling marina features delightful bars and restaurants for vibrant summer atmospheres. Kemer is just one hour’s transfer drive from Antalya airport.
Stylish Kalkan: Kalkan, with the picturesque harbour, whitewashed houses, and breathtaking views, attracts tourists and house hunters seeking more upscale experiences. The blend of authentic Turkish culture and modern conveniences, fine dining, boutique shopping, and easy access to stunning nearby beaches and coves makes Kalkan an exclusive town. Also, catch a bus to neighbouring Kas for more insight into traditional Turkish charm.
About Us
We are Spot Blue International, and we sell retirement, holiday, and investment properties in Turkey. Call us today to chat with an agent if you are interested in property ownership, either for holidays or investment, or see our portfolio of affordable homes for sale here. You might also be interested in the following articles.
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