Curator’s statement
Antalya is one of my favorite places in the world — where ancient history, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes come together. From its sun-kissed beaches to the dramatic Taurus Mountains, it’s a place that continually inspires and grounds me.
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Where to stay in Antalya
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Things to do in Antalya
1. Explore Old Town (Kaleiçi)
Wander through the cobbled streets of Kaleiçi, the historic heart of Antalya, lined with Ottoman-era houses, artisan boutiques and lively cafés. Don’t miss: The iconic Clock Tower (Saat Kulesi) — a 9th-century stone landmark with a pentagonal base and four clock faces, once part of the city’s ancient fortifications.
2. Visit the Ancient City of Perge
One of the best-preserved ancient cities in Türkiye, Perge offers stunning ruins, including a stadium, Roman baths and a colonnaded street.
3. Take a dip at Kaputaş or Lara Beach
Beach, just outside of Antalya, is a turquoise gem nestled between cliffs. Closer to the city, Lara Beach offers soft sand and luxury resorts.
4. Discover the Düden Waterfalls
A natural wonder within city limits, the Upper Düden Falls offers a serene park setting, while the Lower Falls dramatically plunge into the sea.
5. Take a boat tour along the Turquoise Coast
From Antalya’s marina, you can board a traditional gulet or yacht to cruise the Mediterranean coastline, with stops for swimming and snorkeling.
6. Climb Mount Tahtalı via the Olympos Cable Car
Ascend to over 2,300 meters for panoramic views of the coastline and mountains — snow-capped in winter, green in summer.
7. Discover Termessos Ancient City
A dramatic mountaintop ruin located in the Taurus Mountains, with panoramic views and fewer tourists.
8. Stroll through Karaalioğlu Park
This coastal park near the city center offers sea views, flower gardens and a relaxed atmosphere.
Places to eat & drink in Antalya
Lara Balik Evi - best fish restaurant in Antalya, pic by Patrycia Canatan
1. Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant
Located in a restored Ottoman mansion in Kaleiçi, Seraser offers an upscale dining experience with a romantic garden setting, refined service and a Mediterranean-European fusion menu.
Insider tip: Reserve a table in the courtyard for an atmospheric dinner under the stars.
2. 7 Mehmet
A local institution with panoramic views of the coast, 7 Mehmet specializes in traditional Turkish dishes with modern presentation. Its focus on fresh seafood and grilled meats makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Why go: It’s one of the oldest restaurants in Antalya and a go-to for authentic regional flavors.
3. Du Bastion Fine Dining Restaurant
Housed inside the historic Hıdırlık Tower, Du Bastion offers gourmet cuisine with an emphasis on fine local ingredients, complemented by breathtaking sea views.
Insider tip: Ideal for a special occasion or sunset dinner — book ahead for a table by the tower edge.
4. Yemenli Meyhanesi
This cozy and vibrant meyhane in Kaleiçi is known for its meze platters, grilled seafood and live Turkish music. It's an ideal spot for a traditional night out with friends or locals.
Why visit: For an authentic raki-and-meze experience in a charming courtyard setting.
5. Lara Balık Evi (Lara Fish House)
Located near the marina, this elegant yet unpretentious seafood restaurant is known for its daily fresh catches, meze selection and serene coastal setting. It combines quality cuisine with one of the most relaxing waterfront views in the city.
Why visit: Ideal for a leisurely lunch or dinner by the sea — ask for a table on the terrace for the best views of the harbor and sunset.
Need to know
Local Insights & Personal Touches I Experienced While Living in Antalya
1. The Golden Hour in Kaleiçi
The warm light just before sunset in Kaleiçi transforms the old city’s stone walls, bougainvillea-covered balconies and harbor into something magical. It’s the perfect time to wander slowly, sit for Turkish tea or take photos.
Insider tip: The best sunset spot? Walk to the edge near Hıdırlık Tower and sit on the low walls — it’s where locals go to watch the sky turn gold.
2. The Art of the Turkish Breakfast (Kahvaltı)
Most guides mention breakfast, but few explain how special and ritualistic it is. In Antalya, breakfast is a feast, often enjoyed slowly over an hour or more with dozens of small plates.
Insider tip: Ask for "serpme kahvaltı" (spread-out breakfast) — and always say yes to menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers).
3. Citrus & Jasmine in the Air
From spring to early summer, the scent of bitter orange blossoms and wild jasmine floats through the city streets, especially in Kaleiçi and residential areas. It’s an unforgettable sensory detail that instantly places you in Antalya.
Why it’s special: Locals often use these blossoms to infuse homemade cologne or tea.
4. Call to Prayer Echoing Over the Harbor
The hauntingly beautiful ezan (call to prayer) echoes from mosques across Antalya five times a day, but around dusk, when the harbor is quiet and the minarets are silhouetted, the sound becomes a kind of spiritual soundtrack.
Note for visitors: You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the moment — just pause, breathe and let it wash over you.
5. How Locals End Their Day
In Antalya, it’s common for people to take an evening stroll — "akşam yürüyüşü" — often with a stop for tea, sunflower seeds or ice cream by the sea.
Join in: Head to Konyaaltı promenade after dinner. This is where you’ll feel the city at its most relaxed and real.
Travel Advisor
Patrycia Canatan
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