Antalya
Antalya is the main city on the Mediterranean coast and one of the most popular vacation spots in Turkey with an attractive harbour setting and the picturesque old quarter of Kaleici enclosed within ancient Roman walls. Dominating the town is Antalya’s symbol, the Yivli Minaret (Grooved Minaret) dating back to the 3rd century. The superb Archaeological Museum of Antalya, housing one of the top collections in the country, should not be missed.
Antalya shoreline, known as the Turkish Riviera, has secluded coves, ancient cities and harbours, seaside towns, sparkling seas and soaring cliffs. Antalya provides an excellent base for exploring the small towns nearby, as well as caves, waterfalls and Roman ruins, including Perge and the mountain-top remains of Termessos. A 30-minute drive east of Antalya is Aspendos, boasting the finest example of a Roman theatre in the world. Built in the 2nd century AD near Antalya, it is remarkably untouched. In addition to the vast number of archaeological wonders of Antalya, the region also has a wealth of outdoor activities. Antalya, lying at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, hosts numerous sporting events throughout the year, including international beach volleyball, triathlons and canoeing competitions.
Antalya's lovely main beach, Konyaalti, is made for relaxing and fun in the sun, with a wide spectrum of watersports on offer. Both up and down the coast there are other beautiful beaches to explore in Antalya. Local operators of Antalya offer all sorts of sports activities, from mountain biking to bungee jumping. Antalya is full of possibilities for excursions, from magnificent waterfalls and mysterious caves to a plethora of archaeological sites. Antalya has some interesting museums, and nature lovers will enjoy the Karaoglanoglu Park.
Duden Falls near Antalya is a great place to chill out in the warm summer days as the canyon and the falls atomization of its water works like a giant natural cooler. The upper Duden Water Falls are found 12 km from the city centre of Antalya. The river flows at ground level and suddenly drops 20 meters in a dramatic yet beautiful fall into a canyon.