Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi) and beaches
Kaleiçi (Antalya Old Town): A compact, atmospheric quarter of narrow winding streets, restored Ottoman houses, historic Roman and Seljuk remains, sea-girt marina and boutique hotels. Ideal for strolling, photography, dining and history.
Antalya Beaches: A diverse coastline offering pebbly urban beaches, long sandy resort stretches and remote coves. Highlights include Konyaaltı (pebble/blue-flag urban beach), Lara (sandy resort beach with luxury hotels), Kaputaş (stunning turquoise cove) and nearby Olympos/Çıralı (wide nature beaches with relaxed vibes and turtle nesting season).
Location
Kaleiçi (Old Town) and Antalya coastline (Konyaaltı, Lara, Kaputaş, Olympos/Çıralı), Antalya, Turkey
Duration
Options: 2–4 hours (Kaleiçi walking), half-day (single beach), full day (Kaleiçi + beach), or multi-day for exploring multiple beaches and nearby ancient sites.
Best Time to Visit
April–June and September–October for warm weather and fewer crowds; July–August for peak summer (hot and busy).
Pricing
Most experiences are low-cost: Kaleiçi is free to wander (museum or entry fees apply for some sites). Beaches: public beaches are free; some private beach clubs charge entrance (approx €5–€20). Boat trips to coves or Phaselis: €15–€40. Museum entries (Antalya Museum, Hadrian's Gate exhibits): €5–€15.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Kaleiçi Highlights: Hadrian's Gate, Yivli Minaret, Kesik Minare, Hidirlik Tower, restored Ottoman mansions, marina and narrow artisan streets.
Konyaaltı Beach: long promenade, blue-flag status, cafes, water sports and mountain backdrop (Taurus range).
Lara Beach: wide sandy beach, resorts, family amenities and beach clubs.
Kaputaş Beach: photo-perfect turquoise cove between Kaş and Kalkan (requires descending steps).
Olympos & Çıralı: nature beaches, ancient ruins (Olympos), and Caretta caretta turtle nesting (May–September).
Boat trips & Phaselis: ancient harbor city ruins accessible by short boat rides from Antalya marina.
Itinerary
Stroll Kaleiçi: start at Hadrian's Gate, walk to Yivli Minaret and the old harbor, visit small museums and artisan shops.
Wear comfortable shoes for cobbles. Cafés and rooftop terraces offer great views—best early to avoid crowds.
Lunch in Kaleiçi or head to Konyaaltı/Lara for a seaside meal.
Seafood meyhanes (taverns) and Turkish mezeler are local favourites.
Relax at Konyaaltı (urban, easy access) or Lara (sandy resort). For scenic swimming, join a boat trip to Kaputaş or Phaselis.
Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen; private beaches may provide sunbeds for a fee.
Karaalioğlu Park viewpoint for sunset over the sea and cliffs (near Kaleiçi).
Great photo spot and short walk from Old Town.
Full-day excursion to Olympos/Çıralı and the Chimera (burning rock flames) or to Kaputaş/Kalkan for scenic beaches.
Guided tours available; expect longer transfers (~1–1.5 hours depending on destination).
Safety Requirements
Use sunscreen, hat and hydrate — Antalya sun is strong in summer.
Check sea conditions and local flags: beware of strong currents at exposed coves.
Be careful descending steep steps to Kaputaş; wear sturdy sandals when exploring rocky shores.
Standard precautions: watch belongings in crowded tourist areas to avoid pickpocketing.
Tips
Book popular boat trips and private beach clubs in high season in advance.
For a compact experience: combine a Kaleiçi morning with an afternoon at Konyaaltı (short taxi ride or tram).
Public transport: tram runs toward Konyaaltı; buses and taxis serve Lara. Consider renting a car for Kaputaş/Olympos day trips.
Respect local culture: modest dress in some religious sites; swimwear is for beaches only.
Best photos: early morning in Kaleiçi for soft light, golden hour at Karaalioğlu Park for sunset views.
