For anyone who only knows Antalya for its beach hotels, the city's real surprise is the ancient cities within an hour's drive. The region opens on AnatoliaPass in spring 2027; here's a short guide for anyone who wants to plan ahead.
Kaleiçi
Antalya's historic centre. Enter through Hadrian's Gate, built in the 2nd century AD to mark Emperor Hadrian's visit, and walk down the narrow streets to the old harbour. The Yivli Minaret is one of the city's landmarks. In the evening, the terraces overlooking the harbour fill up.
Antalya Museum
One of Türkiye's richest archaeology museums. Statues from Perge, sarcophagi and the region's prehistoric finds are all here. Seeing the museum before you visit the ancient cities makes it easier to understand what you see.
Aspendos and Perge
The theatre at Aspendos is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world; its stage building is still standing. An opera and ballet festival is held here at the end of summer. In Perge, the colonnaded street, baths and stadium sit side by side.
Side and Termessos
In Side, the ancient theatre and the columns of the seaside Temple of Apollo look stunning at sunset. Termessos is an impressive city built on a mountaintop that can only be explored on foot; comfortable shoes are essential.
What you need to know
- April–May and October–November are the most comfortable months for the ancient cities.
- There's no shade at the archaeological sites in the summer midday heat; start early in the morning.
- Hiring a car is the most flexible way to explore the region.
