Antalya Travel Guide: Best Places to Eat, See & Relax by the Sea

Sometimes, travel isn’t just about ticking off every landmark. Instead, it’s about soft mornings, honest food, and letting yourself wander without hurry. After all, the best moments often come when you slow down. So, this Antalya travel guide is here to help you pause, breathe, and discover the best of Turkey’s coastal gem. Here, the sea, ancient stones, and warm people gently remind you to savour each small moment along the way.

Where to Relax on the Beach in Antalya

We don’t often spend whole days on a beach, but Schiller Kaffeerösterei Beach changed that. Tucked right on the shore, this spot feels like an invitation to do nothing at all.

Lay back on a soft lounger, listen to gentle waves. Let the kind staff bring you fresh food and good coffee right to your towel. It’s not the cheapest day you’ll spend in Antalya, but sometimes your mind and body need a quiet day more than anything else. Schiller Kaffeerösterei Beach is located here.

Where to Walk by the Sea in Antalya – Antalya travel guide

Not far from Kaleiçi is Karaalioglu Park, a clifftop garden where Antalya’s old walls meet the endless sea. Stroll its winding paths, pause at viewpoints that open wide to the blue horizon, and watch ships drift by far below.

Find a bench in the shade of pine trees. Listen to the soft hum of the city blending with the hush of the Mediterranean – a reminder to stay just a little longer.

What to See in Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi)

Step through Hadrian’s Gate, and you’ll find yourself in Kaleiçi, Antalya’s ancient old town. This is the soul of the city – winding streets lined with Ottoman houses, wooden balconies heavy with bougainvillea, and tiny shops selling Turkish lamps and handmade treasures.

Long ago, Kaleiçi was encircled by strong Roman and Byzantine walls. Today, pieces of those walls and old towers still stand guard. Wander slowly – you’ll find hidden courtyards, cool shaded cafés, and echoes of the traders, sultans, and poets who passed here long before us.

What’s Special About Hadrian’s Gate

In the heart of Antalya stands Hadrian’s Gate – a marble archway that has welcomed travelers for nearly 2,000 years. Built in 130 AD for Emperor Hadrian’s visit, it’s the only original entrance still standing through Antalya’s old city walls.

Look closely – under centuries of footsteps, the fine Roman carvings are still there. Local legend says that passing under its arches brings new beginnings – a quiet blessing for any journey onward.

Street art in Antalya – Antalya travel guide

While you stroll, keep an eye out for colorful street art tucked between old stones – playful murals and small paintings that blend modern Antalya with its deep, layered past. It’s another quiet reminder that this city is always alive – old stories and new voices sharing the same narrow lanes.

Where to Eat in Antalya – Antalya travel guide

Karadeniz Fast Food

Yes, we usually skip fast food. For a good trip, your body needs real, high-quality food, not just quick bites. But Karadeniz Fast Food is different. This small, family-run place serves homemade Black Sea dishes that feel like comfort on a plate. Every meal comes with wide, honest smiles that make you feel at home.

Their special dish, Hamsi Pilavı, is worth the stop if you’re wondering where to eat in Antalya. Fresh sardines wrapped in tender herbs, herbed rice cooked with butter, dill, onion, and pine nuts. Baked until soft and full of flavor, it’s an old Black Sea favorite you won’t find everywhere.

So, if you want real Turkish food in Antalya – warm, simple, and honest – come here. Nothing fancy. Just good people and good food that makes you want to return again and again.

Karadeniz Fast Food is located a bit far from the most popular tourist attractions, but it is worth a longer walk.

Vahap Usta Et

If you crave perfectly grilled meat and a friendly vibe, then you should try Vahap Usta Et – a local favorite in Antalya. Their Beyti kebab is truly one of the best I’ve ever tasted: tender meat, warm lavash, and rich sauce. Simple yet unforgettable.

Schiller Kaffeerösterei Beach

And if you’d rather not move at all, then remember we already mentioned Schiller Kaffeerösterei Beach earlier in this guide under where to relax on the beach. Here, you can simply sink into a sunbed and enjoy fresh, delicious meals right by the waves.

Where to Find a Waterfall Near Antalya

Just a short drive from Antalya’s city center, Demircikara Waterfall offers a serene escape into nature. Here, fresh mountain water flows gently through lush greenery before cascading down rocky cliffs. Pause for a moment in the cool mist – and let your worries drift away with the soothing sounds of the waterfall. This peaceful spot invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature’s calm.

If you love chasing waterfalls, Antalya’s coastal cliffs and hidden coves won’t disappoint – but for a truly unique twist, there’s even an entire village built around waterfalls in Croatia. Discover the fairytale charm of Croatia, Slunj Rastoke near Plitvice Lakes, and add it to your Europe bucket list!

How to Spend the Perfect Day in Antalya: Hadrian’s Gate, Old Town Walk, Talya Viewpoint, Coastal Views, and Demircikara Waterfall

For a perfect day out, begin your walk at Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya’s iconic Roman arch. Then, explore the charming streets of the old town (Kaleiçi), soaking in its history and vibrant atmosphere. Pause for a nice coffee at one of the cozy cafés nearby. Afterwards, make your way to Talya Manzara Seyir Noktası, a beautiful viewpoint offering stunning coastal panoramas – an ideal spot for photos and quiet reflection.

Continue onward to Karadeniz Fast Food for a taste of warm, homemade Black Sea dishes. Finally, complete your journey with a refreshing visit to Demircikara Waterfall.

Altogether, this walk, including stops for coffee, meals, photos, and enjoying the views, takes about 4 to 5 hours – a well-paced day filled with culture, nature, and local flavors.

What Adventure Can You Try in Antalya

If you’re craving adventure in Antalya, a day in the Taurus Mountains is perfect. We chose Tornado Rafting, but many companies offer fun packages with rafting, a zipline, and an off-road ride by buggy, jeep, or quad.. Prices for White Water Rafting start at just £10 (about $13), so it’s fun that won’t drain your budget. If your guide asks you to step into the chilly river, say yes – give in and let the water carry you. Don’t be afraid – the water is clean. It’s pure release. Bring covered water shoes – no flip-flops or sandals. You can buy them there, but better ones are cheaper in town. Food, drinks, and photos at their rest area are a bit pricey, but the adventure is worth it. Just go for the thrill, let go, and enjoy every splash.

Should You Rent a Car in Antalya

If you only want to stay in Antalya, you don’t need a car. Most of the activities you book will have transportation included. However, if you have a few extra days and you want to explore more, renting a car is one of the best things you can do. With four wheels and open roads, you can see so much more: the rugged beauty of the Taurus Mountains, the shimmering white shores of Salt Lake Tuz Gölü, and even magical Cappadocia.

Did you know Cappadocia is about 7 to 8 hours by car from Antalya? Yes, it’s a long road trip – but the roads are smooth, and every mile is worth it. Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most famous destinations, known for its surreal fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, rock-cut churches, and breathtaking hot air balloon rides at sunrise. We did exactly this: we rented a car in Antalya, drove to Cappadocia, stayed for a few days, and then returned, full of memories.

If you dream of watching Cappadocia balloons at sunrise, exploring Göreme Open-Air Museum, or hiking through magical valleys like Love Valley and Rose Valley, this trip is for you. Since you’ll already have a car, see our post on what to do in Cappadocia and how to DIY the top Cappadocia tours to beat the crowds and find hidden corners.

We’ve also added photos from our drive to inspire you – and help you decide if these magical stops belong on your own Turkey travel plan.

Where to Stay in Antalya – Antalya travel guide

After exploring Antalya’s old streets or relaxing by the sea, we found Rodinn Park Hotel was the perfect place to rest. It’s modern, clean, and welcoming – with comfy beds, fresh rooms, and kind staff who make you feel at home right away.

There’s also a nice pool to cool off after a warm day in the city, a quiet bonus that makes coming back feel even better. It’s close to beaches, local shops, and restaurants, yet peaceful enough for a good night’s sleep. Simple, easy, and just what you need after a long day exploring Antalya’s best sights.

You can read more and book your stay at Rodinn Park Hotel here.

🌿 Slow Down, Wander, Return – Antalya Travel Guide

Antalya isn’t about rushing from sight to sight. It’s about soft footsteps on old stones, a shaded bench above the sea, a meal cooked with love. Come tired, come curious – and leave lighter, softer, and maybe ready to wander again soon.

If you’re planning to spend more time in Turkey and want to see even more beyond Antalya, it’s worth turning your trip into a mini road trip or multi-city adventure. Many travellers love to combine Antalya’s coast with the vibrant streets of Istanbul – our Istanbul Travel Guide covers the best things to see, do, and taste, including the Top Rooftop Restaurants for stunning city views. From there, continue on to the magical landscapes of Cappadocia – plan your own adventure with our DIY Cappadocia Tour guide.

Ready to go? Book your perfect Antalya holiday HERE.

Keep Exploring After Antalya

More Sunny Coastal Escapes:

• Discover the charming old walls and sea views of Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Explore Split’s ancient Roman palace and sunny beaches
• Soak up endless sunshine on Tenerife’s volcanic coastline
• Taste street food and history in Palermo, Italy

Hidden European City Adventures:

• Wander Tallinn’s fairytale streets and medieval towers
• Find street art and secret courtyards in Vilnius, Lithuania
• Get lost in Riga’s Art Nouveau beauty

Smart Travel Tips:

• How to Choose Your Perfect Accommodation for any trip
• Mindful Travelers: Book Reviews to Inspire your next journey