If you ever find yourself in Turkey, one place that you must visit is Antalya. It is a city that combines ancient heritage and modern tendencies – located on the southwestern coast of Turkey along the Mediterranean Sea. From gorgeous sandy seashores to exquisite architectural heritage, Antalya has all that a traveler could ever desire. If you are looking for a thrill, are fond of ancient ruins or milestones, or you simply wish to spend some tranquil moments, this Turkish treasure has something for you. Here are the top 10 reasons o love this beautiful city of Antalya.
Marvelous Sun and Seashores
Antalya is absolutely a paradise when it comes to sea shores. The capital of the province is located on a gulf’s coastline and hence, there are turquoise sea and either sandy or stony coastline. Among the famous beaches is the Konyaaltı beach which is distinguished by a long beach and it is not far from the central area of the city. Another popular one is the Lara beach featuring fine sand and numerous beach clubs. Be it lounging on the beach or indulging in thrilling activities such as jet skiing, parasailing or windsurfing, the beaches will never disappoint.
Historical Marvels
Antalya is the perfect place to explore the ancient history through various ruins and archaeological sites. The old city, Kaleici, is no less attractive with its narrow cobbled streets, old Ottoman houses, and Byzantine and Roman heritage. The remains of Hadrian’s Gate, built in honor of the Roman Emperor, is actually a beautiful arch built as early as 130 AD. And also do not forget to visit the nearby ruins of the ancient cities of Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos, which can be easily overlooked even by the most ardent admirers of history.
Delicious Turkish Cuisine
On the way travels to and in Antalya one finds quiet a romantic medieval town yet, to transition such traditional cultural journey, there is mouthwatering Turkish gastronomy on this last leg of the journey. Ruthless most of the restaurants in the coast include liquors, delicious kebabs, mezes, and oceanic food. The city’s food centers are also dotted with agricultural products like olives, vegetables, fresh cheese, and fruits grown in Antalya. Piyaz, salad with beans, tahini and onion is a specially suggested dish of the region along with Turkish delight and Baklava in the course of the dessert.
Luxury Resorts and Hotels
If someone wants to enjoy the most exclusive and elegant resorts in Turkey, then Antalya is the place to visit. Most of them have first class facilities and stunning scenery. It is worth noting that most of these resorts are located on the seaside and offer access to private beaches and infinity pools as well as spa services. In case you prefer a more cozy type of accommodation, Antalya has also small boutique hotels located in historical buildings so that it is possible to combine contemporary comforts with the unique warmth of Turkish hospitality.
Unforgettable Adventure Activities
As an example of ideal place for active tourism, it is perhaps worth saying that if you are an extreme follower, this is also the right place. You will not get bored, as mountains, as well as the sea, suggest various activities. You are able to do trekking in the Taurus Mountains, ride on a hot air balloon in the city and go canyoning in Köprülü Canyon. Water sports are also a favorite activity – scuba diving and snorkeling are common in the region, giving you a chance to discover the underwater secrets of Antalya. With such a variety of activities to offer, there will always be something for everyone no matter what type of travelers they are.
Amazing Waterfalls
Within the borders of Antalya are situated some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Turkey. Near the city center one can also find the Düden Waterfalls, which have stunning views as they flow into the Mediterranean Sea. An attractive Kurşunlu Waterfall is set in a beautiful forest, thus enabling one to escape from the city. These parks and natural settings are great to relax and beat the heat in the season of summer.
Bumping Nightlife
As night draws near in the city of Antalya, an exciting nightlife ensues. Antalyawearresort.com has it all whether one wants to spend a casual evening with drinks at the beach bar or hit the clubs and dance all night. A few steps from each other in the hall of pubs and bars with a view on the Mediterranean, you can enjoy drinks in kaleici, cocktails on the roof. However for dance enthusiasts, the best partying venues are the city’s beach clubs and disco- which are the most happening in the Turkish Riviera.
The Antalya Museum
One of the largest and most special antique style centers, housed in the Antalya Museum, allows to comprehend the past of the territory more deeply. It contains items that date back from the Paleolithic Age to the Ottoman period. Take it from me – if you enjoy history, you will absolutely love this museum. The displayed Roman statues and Ancient cultures relics demonstrate the great empires that flourished in the area. Hence, it’s an interesting place to visit during the course of your trip.
A Gateway to the Lycian Way:
Speaking of hiking enthusiasts, it looks as if it’s the starting point of the Lycian Way for the tourists since they walk the 540 km way. Lykia Yolu, parts of ancient cities, idyllic sea-side settlements and unspoilt nature in a different way, spiced up by some of the cultural richness incorporated in Turkish heritage. If you prefer doing only a part of the track or an entire trail, it doesn’t make a difference, walking the Lycian Way in not an easy way.
Nice and Friendly People of the Region
However, what distinguishes Antalya most is the friendliness and the disposition of its people. Being a traditional society, Turks are known for their good hospitality and most people visiting Antalya are treated as if they were home. While talking with a shopkeeper, having a meal at an ethnic restaurant or simply talking to local people for directions, one will always encounter the wonderful hearts of Turkish people.
Conclusion
Antalya is a place that draws all kinds of visitors thanks to the unique combination of soft sandy beaches, ancient ruins and modern conveniences. Whether it is delicious food, fun filled adventures or beautiful monuments, this city has it all to ensure its visitors have the best times. A perfect combination of staycation, thrill and lots of historical pressure makes Antalya the best place to create memories for a lifetime. The first time visitors or the recurring tourists will get hundreds of reasons to feel crazy about the quite pleasing and lovely town of Antalya.