How to make the most of a long weekend in Antalya

Turkey has seen a considerable increase in tourism in recent years. The country has actively been trying to attract new tourists, and the combination of natural beauty, historic sites and traditional food has been driving its popularity up.

One of the most visited spots in this beautiful country is Antalya, a Mediterranean city brimming with history. People flock in to visit every year, thanks to its proximity to the sea and mountains.

Let’s have a look at why Antalya is the perfect spot for a long weekend and how you can get around.

The cascading Düden Waterfalls

Waterfall Duden at Antalya, Turkey – nature travel background
Photo by depositphotos.com

A trip to Antalya isn’t complete without drinking in the sight of the Düden Waterfalls. This impressive natural feature punctuates the Düden River. The falls are located in the northern part of the city, from which the river runs down to meet the sea at the city’s southeast coast.

The Lower Düden Waterfall is the most-visited one as it has the most dramatic scenery. You can appreciate it from an observation terrace with a café and picnic area and get up close to it on a boat tour.

See Antalya’s Old Town

Old town Kaleici in Antalya, Turkey
Photo by depositphotos.com

There’s a charming old town in Antalya named Kaleiçi. Located down on the seafront, it dates back to the Roman period. It has seen its fair share of history and this shows in the architecture, which has influences from the Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine era.

The narrow cobbled streets mean that traffic in the old town is minimal. This makes the experience feel all the more authentic as you stroll along.

One of the old town’s interesting sights is Hadrian’s Gate. This perfectly preserved Roman gate was built to commemorate the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD. It comprises three gates flanked by two towers on either side.

You can also walk inside many of the old town’s traditional buildings, which you’ll find aplenty lining the cobblestone streets. Some have been converted into restaurants and hotels, so it’s easy to immerse yourself in Kaleiçi’s historical past.

Go down to Kaleici Harbour

The ancient port of the old city of Antalya
Photo by depositphotos.com

The harbour in the old town sits on the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean and is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with a view. It’s a…