If you plan a vacation in the Antalya Region, don't think that the only thing you can do there is lay on the beach.
Antalya is a very diverse place with hundreds of things to do, explore, and enjoy.
This list below contains everything you need to know about the top-rated and most fun attractions in Antalya.
Read about the most popular attractions to visit, experiences you shouldn't miss, unique excursions, adventure parks, and off the beaten path locations that are worth mentioning.
Let's start the adventure...
1. The Land of Legends Theme Park
Near Belek, a bit off the coast, is a huge entertainment center called the Land of Legends.
Upon entering the resort, you are taken into the world of fairy tales, and the concept continues throughout the entire facility. It is not for nothing that the resort is called the Disneyland of Antalya.
The huge water park offers a total of 55 water slides and an adventure park attraction with all imaginable rides, including gondola rides on the canal, popcorn, donuts stands, and fairy tale characters wherever you look.
A true paradise for children. Especially worth mentioning are the shows every evening with lights and lasers and the amazing shopping mall with more than 100 shops.
These activities attract millions of visitors each year and has been the #1 activity picked by tourists since it opened.
- Read more and book your stay at the Land of Legends Theme Park in Antalya on this dedicated page with special deals.
2. Olympos Teleferik (Cable Car)
Every 10 minutes, the red cabins of the cable car go from the beach in Kemer to Tahtalı Mountain, better known as Olympos.
With a length of 4,350 meters, the Olympos Teleferik cable car is one of the longest cable cars in the world. The ride up the 2,365-meter mountain takes about 10 minutes, the panorama is stunning, even the ancient remains of Phaselis can be seen.
From the top of the mountain, during good weather, you can even see Alanya. In addition to the fantastic view, various sports activities are offered on the summit, including paragliding.
- Read more details about the Olympos Teleferik in Antalya.
- Read more details about Olympos Beach in Antalya.
- Read more details about the Ancient City of Olympos.
3. Rafting in Köprülü Kanyon
The largest rafting center in Turkey is located 90 kilometers northeast of Antalya in Köprülü Kanyon, a 366 km2 canyon and national park.
Here you will find wild water and rapids of all sizes and levels of difficulty. Rafting on 12 kilometers of ice-cold spring water under the scorching heat of the sun is a wonderful experience.
In Köprülü canyon, rafting is possible all year around. There are organized tours, most of the time equipment is provided.
By the way, Köprülü Kanyon means "bridge canyon", so pay attention to the stone bridges after which the canyon is named.
- More details about Köprülü Canyon in Manavgat.
- Check out our full guide to rafting in Antalya.
- More canyons in Antalya.
4. Jeep Safari in the Taurus Mountains
Jeep-Safaris are among the most popular tours in Antalya.
A full day excursion to the Taurus Mountains offers a welcome change from beach and sun bathing vacations. In the province of Antalya, these excursions are organized all over the region, your hotel can help you find one, for sure.
With a small group, you will drive in an open jeep into the mountains. Slowly the vehicle moves through the narrow and dusty roads through the pine forests, where some villages are hidden in the mountain range.
The safaris take you 900 meters above sea level. When you cross a riverbed, children especially enjoy the "water fights" between the jeeps. Lunch is served at a fish farm. Depending on the tour, there are also short breaks for swimming.
- If you prefer activities in the water, check our special guide to water sports in Antalya with all the details.
5. Beach Resorts
The Turkish Riviera offers more than 630 kilometers of coastline. With so much choice, it's often difficult to choose a beach.
Konyaaltı Beach is set against the imposing backdrop of the Taurus Mountains, Mermerli Beach, a stony sandy beach, is located right by the harbor and is accessible by the stairs of a restaurant, while Marmara Beach can only be reached by elevator.
Families will prefer Cleopatra Beach near Alanya, and the 18-kilometer Patara Beach near Kaş is known for its white sand. Lara Beach will impresses you with its proximity to Düden Waterfalls, which plunge directly into the sea, whereas Olympos Beach stands out for its closeness to nature and wildlife.
Here you can spend the night in a tree house and watch the sea turtles. Kalkan is surrounded by high cliffs and has the charming flair of a fishing village.
Looking for affordable resort choices in Antalya? We have an amazing selection created by professionals from the region. You can also check out our guide to the best beaches around Antalya.
6. Paragliding from Olympos or in Alanya
Haven't you always wished to be able to fly? Paragliding makes this possible.
You don't need any previous knowledge for these tandem flights, because the whole flight is accompanied by an experienced paragliding pilot.
A 10-minute briefing is all you need. Then, you just sit back and enjoy the panorama as well as the thrill.
Near Alanya, paragliding flights are organized by various operators. The flights here usually end on Cleopatra Beach, from there, you are taken back to your hotel.
In Olympos near Kemer, the flights take place with an impressive panorama of the Taurus Mountains from Mount Olympos.
- Discover our Guide to tadem paragliding in Antalya.
- Have a look at other sports in Antalya and enjoy many different activities.
7. Alanya Teleferik (Cable Car)
In just over 5 minutes, a total of 14 cable car cabins travel from the beach to Alanya Castle. The station on the beach is very close to Damlataş Cave, whose air is said to have regenerating effects on the respiratory system. The temperature in the cave is constantly 23 degrees with high humidity.
A total of 900 meters are covered, the castle is located on a rock at a height of about 250 meters above sea level. From up here you have a fantastic view of Alanya and the surrounding area.
- Discover Olympos Teleferik and Tünektepe Teleferik in Antalya too!
8. Side's Old Town
Side is primarily known for its beaches, but the old town is something you should not miss.
More than 3,000 years old, ruins can be found here. The most famous is the Temple of Apollo, whose 6 white columns are the landmark of the city.
Also worth mentioning is the Roman theater with more than 10,000 seats and the ancient agora. If you are looking for a souvenir, just stroll through the main street of Side, where mainly leather, jewelry, textiles and souvenirs are sold.
Everyone will find something here.
- Discover the best things to do in Side's old town during your visit!
- Discover the best beaches around Side with our special guide.
9. Blue Cruise
Boat trips are offered from almost all coastal towns along the Turkish Riviera.
These mostly have routes that lead to the close surroundings. From Kaş you can visit the ancient city of Simena, today called Kaleköy. The sunken city can be reached only by boat. From Kemer there are trips to the ancient city of Phaselis, the ancient city of Olympos, and the surrounding diving centers.
These all-day boat tours usually travel along the coast, exploring charming landscapes and often a couple of hidden coves. There are several swimming and snorkeling breaks and, of course, food is provided on board.
It's best to ask your hotel for advice.
10. Antalya Aquarium
The Antalya Aquarium is the second largest aquarium in Europe and the fifth largest in the world.
In a total of 64 tanks and 40 thematic aquariums you can see about 5,000 fish and underwater creatures. Particularly impressive is the world's largest tunnel aquarium.
It's a 131-meter-long and 3-meter-wide tunnel that passes under the tanks and makes you feel as if you are swimming with the sharks....
The aquarium's integrated snow world has a constant temperature of -5 degrees even in midsummer and features ice sculptures.
Those who wish can play with snowballs. In the adjacent wildlife park, you can expect huge insects, snakes, and reptiles.
- Check our Antalya Aquarium article for more information.
11. Diving at Üç Adalar (Three Islands)
On the Turkish Riviera, diving lovers get their full enjoyment.
The area around "Üç Adalar" is especially known for its beautiful diving areas, where you can dive among grottos, caves, and overgrown cliffs.
The three islands near Tekirova in front of Kemer offer possibilities for all diving levels, from beginner to professional. The breathtakingly beautiful landscape is outstanding.
Here, among other things, you can find Adventure Reef, 400 meters out in the open sea. It's recommended for experienced divers because of the strong currents. The reef reaches a depth of up to 60-70 meters.
- Read our complete guide to Üç Adalar in Antalya.
- Read about other islands in Antalya.
12. Canyoning in Göynük
The Göynük hiking trail near Kemer leads through idyllic nature with a wild river and picturesque waterfalls in this canyon with the same name.
Göynük Canyon is a natural adventure park where various activities are offered, including rafting, paintball, canyoning safari tours, and canyoning.
At the end of the tour, you are rewarded with a spectacular view. Nature is still really untouched here, don't be surprised if you see a salamander.
- Read our guide to canyoning in Antalya.
- Learn more about the amazing Göynük Canyon in Kemer.
- Have a look at other canyons in the Antalya region.
- Do you like nature? Check out these 5 national parks in Antalya
13. Quad Safari
A quad safari into the desert terrain of the Taurus Mountains is a special experience not to be missed.
Drive the small four-wheelers on dirt roads, over sand dunes, and through the pine forests. By the way, the name Quad is a short form of "Quadricycle", which means four-wheeler.
Quad safaris are organized along the Turkish Riviera, you are usually picked up directly from your hotel. No previous experience is required, after a 10-minute briefing you can get started.
On average, quad safaris last about three hours. It's an adventure where you will get dusty and dirty, but make unforgettable memories.
- Learn more about sports in Antalya and enjoy various activities during your trip.
14. Hiking to the Ruins of Termessos
Termessos is a very well preserved ancient city located 17 kilometers northwest of Antalya.
It's in Güllük-Termessos National Park, which is 6,700 hectares in size. Standing 1,050 meters above sea level, it covers a very wide area. The vastness of its terrain makes it an ideal hiking destination.
Explore the impressive mountain landscape with its rich flora and fauna, off the tourist trails. You will walk between the ruins of ancient walls, a triumphal arch, cisterns, a theater, an agora, and odeon and let the impressive atmosphere of Termessos work its magic.
- Get more info in our special guide to hiking in Antalya.
- Read more about the ancient city of Termessos.
15. Olympos and Adrasan Beach, Caretta Caretta Turtles
Steeped in history, Olympos Beach on the Lycian coast near Çıralı is especially popular with nature lovers.
Located in the middle of the nature reserve, the beach will impress you with beautiful vegetation, ancient ruins, and a unique atmosphere. The natural pebble beach is located on the site of the ancient city of Olympos.
Sea turtles also appreciate this natural paradise. The Caretta Caretta turtles lay their eggs here. If you are lucky, you can even watch the hatching of a little sea turtles in the summer.
- Discover Suluada Island close to Adrasan, one of the best islands in the country!
16. Nightlife in Kaleiçi
The old town of Antalya is not only known for its charming old cobblestone streets.
In addition to the numerous ancient sights you can visit here during the day, the neighborhood flourishes in a completely different way at night, when soft lights illuminate the small streets and music sounds from every corner.
Hidden among the old Ottoman houses in narrow alleys, you will find many surprises, including clubs with an enchanting view of the harbor below Kaleiçi. There are numerous upscale restaurants near the clock tower.
And if you like to smoke a water pipe, Kaleiçi is the place to go. More about Kaleiçi, Antalya's old town.
17. Lower Düden Waterfall
Lower Düden Waterfall is a spectacle that takes place right on the coast of Antalya.
The water of the Düden River plunges 40 meters from the cliff here with a tremendous roar. The cool breeze of the rushing water can even be felt on top of the cliffs.
This stunning natural spectacle can be observed from the park on the upper side of the cliffs or by taking a boat trip.
Not to be confused with the Upper Düden Waterfall, located in a naturally landscaped park in Antalya.
- We have a fully detailed article about Lower Düden Waterfall in Antalya for you! Check it out.
18. Manavgat Bazaar
There is a market every day in Manavgat. The open-air market in the this small district town is one of the largest in the region.
The fixed, covered bazaar in the town center takes place every day. Leather, jewelry, clothes, souvenirs, spices, hand-woven carpets, and much more are sold here.
Every Monday and Thursday, an additional market is set up in the side streets, which is divided into two areas. In one, you will find mainly clothes and textile products.
Here you can find many famous labels imitation products, whose import into Germany is prohibited. In the other part, farmers sell their regional products. In this part, everything is about fruit and vegetables.
- More details about the famous Manavgat Bazaar in Antalya.
- Also check out our guide to markets and bazaar in the Antalya region in general. You will find treasures not to miss.
19. Manavgat River Cruise
The Manavgat River, one of the most important in the mediterranean region, flows through the middle of the city and then runs into the Mediterranean Sea.
Boat trips across the river start from the center of the city. They take about 3 to 4 hours and also pass by the impressive waterfall (read more about the Manavgat Waterfall).
Here water plunges from 5 meter cliffs with an amazing spectacle. The high flow rate and speed of the river provide an ideal environment for rafting and similar water sports.
This area is home to many species of birds and fish. Mulberry trees, sycamore trees, willows, poplars, and elms flourish along the riverbank, where citrus orchards and greenhouses are also located.
- Read our Manavgat River guide and learn all the activities available on site.
20. Green Canyon Cruise
Near Manavgat is Green Canyon, which is one of the few canyons in Turkey that offer boat trips through the canyon.
The cruise takes you along the rugged rocky landscape over the Olymapınar Dam, which is one of the largest dams in Turkey, covering an area of 470 hectares. The impressive canyon with its natural beauty and the Taurus Mountains provide the perfect backdrop.
At the various stops you can jump into the crystal clear water, swim in the emerald green lake and cool off. Usually, food and drinks are also included on these boat trips.
- Learn more about the amazing Green Canyon in Manavgat.
- Have a look at other canyons in the Antalya region.
- Do you like nature? Check out these 5 national parks in Antalya.
21. Aspendos and the Fire of Anatolia
About 40 kilometers east of Antalya is Aspendos, famous for its Roman theater dating back to the 2nd century AD. It's considered to be one of the best preserved in the world and is still used as a venue during the summer months.
The International Opera and Ballet Festival is held here every year in June. In addition, the famous "Fire of Anatolia" show is performed here in the theater of Aspendos.
Visiting a performance in the ancient theater is certainly an unforgettable experience.
- Read this fully detailed article about Aspendos in Antalya. Learn about the place before your visit.
22. Sandland Antalya
An open-air museum of a special kind awaits you in Sandland Antalya on Lara Beach. Sand sculptures created by artists from all over the world are exhibited here on an area of about 10,000 m2.
Sandland is also called the "World's Most Fantastic Museum". Even though the exhibition has a different theme every year, you can almost always find Greek and Egyptian mythological figures, the 7 Wonders of the World, the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and much more. And everything is made of sand... The evening lighting adds a very special flair.
- Check out our article about Sandland in Antalya and learn all the details.
- Also check out our Online Antalya Ticket Shop for advanced bookings.
23. Sunken City of Simena
The ancient city of Simena, now called Kaleköy, is an ancient site with rock tombs and ruins, which today can only be reached by boat from Kaş, Demre, and Üçağız.
Parts of the small Lycian coastal town, inhabited since the 4th century, were buried under the water because of an earthquake. Consequently, the city became an island.
Already a meter below the water surface, many of the ancient ruins and the harbor pier are clearly visible. The famous sunken basilica can be explored by boat tour.
In the city, charming alleys with old stonewalls and cobblestones invite you to take a walk while the medieval castle offers a spectacular view of the island of Kekova.
- Read more about the ancient city of Simena.
24. Tünektepe Teleferik (Cable Car)
Tünektepe is considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Antalya. A cable car rises to the top of the 618-meter hill, where there is a beautiful terrace under pine trees with restaurants and cafes offering spectacular views.
The cable car is called Tünektepe Teleferik and is 1,706 meters long in total. 36 cabins can accommodate a total of 8 people each and can carry 1,200 visitors per hour. A total of 609 meters of altitude is covered in 9 minutes.
Because of the breathtaking view, Tünektepe Teleferik is definitely worth a trip.
25. Skiing in Saklikent
Did you know that there's a ski resort only 30 kilometers from Antalya?
Even if skiing is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Turkey, the country has plenty of opportunities for skiing.
Saklıkent is located at an altitude of 2,287 meters and offers 7 kilometers of slopes that cover all levels of difficulty, from baby slopes to black runs. This can be reached by chairlift and starts at the highest point of the ski area.
So if you want, you can ski in the morning and then swim in the sea in the afternoon.
Now you are set to discover all of the 25 best attractions in the Antalya region. Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
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