We will talk about the beauties of Antalya, one of the most preferred cities by international investors.

Antalya is the fifth populous city in Turkey and has hosted many civilizations from Lycians to Romans, from Byzantines to Ottomans. This important Mediterranean city draws attention as the region with the most ancient cities in our country as well as its sea tourism. International tourists visiting Antalya especially in summer months can get a kick out of the sea and take a journey in history. The city is also lively in winter months. Many sports teams set up camps in winter in Antalya. As the Explore Turkish Realty journal, we took a closer look at the beauties that Antalya offers to its visitors.

Kaleiçi (Old Town)

Kaleiçi is the primary location frequently visited by tourists. With its narrow streets and architecture, Kaleiçi bears the stamp of history.  The historical Yivli Minare Mosque in Kaleiçi, a centre where hostels, entertainment places, gift shops, restaurants, and antique shops are placed, still preserves its glory from the Seljukian period.

Aspendos

Aspendos in Serik, Antalya is an ancient city that draws attention with its theatre and waterways. The ancient theatre is one of the finest examples of the Roman theatre and was among the most glorious constructions of its time. Its geographical position on an important trade route made Aspendos an attraction every period of history.

Köprülü Canyon

Köprülü Canyon, the valley through which Köprüçay river flows, is one of the favourite spots of rafting lovers. Köprülü Canyon is one of the longest canyons in Turkey and was declared a national park in 1973. The park hosts forests and fairy chimney-like structures. The national park is home to lots of animals and historical structures such as a theatre and Artemis and Zeus temples. Köprülü Canyon is the ideal location for those that want to witness the beauties of nature and experience high levels of adrenaline.

Side Ancient City

Antalya has countless ancient cities. And one of them is Side Ancient City. The ancient city located 80 kilometres away from Antalya hosts the Temple of Apollo, a public bath, a port, a fountain, and an agora. The 15 thousand-seat ancient theatre brings a whole different dimension to the entire glory of the city. At the Side Museum at the main gate, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine artefacts are exhibited.

Beldibi Cave

Beldibi Cave, located at the Antalya-Kemer coastal road, is the second important prehistoric centre of Antalya. Since the rock-shelter inside of the cave was damaged due to natural destruction, the filling layers inside were dragged by rainwater and winds. The flint tools from the Upper Palaeolithic and Mesolithic periods were found during the excavations in the cave. There are also drawings of people, mountain goats, and deer on the walls of the cave.

Konyaaltı

Konyaaltı is at the West of Antalya. The beach is considered among the most important symbols of Antalya. It is 7 kilometres long and one of the most preferred beaches for many reasons such as its location, ease of transportation, and clean waters.

Olympus Ancient City

Olympus is an ancient city in Kumluca, Antalya. One of the most important cities of the Lycian Civilization, Olympus is also a protected area since it is a breeding ground for caretta caretta turtles. The Olympus Ruins hold sarcophagus tombs, walls and acropolis remains. Olympus is a great choice for those who want to spend quiet and peaceful days with its air full of oxygen.

Düden Waterfalls

Another geographical beauty of Antalya is Düden Waterfalls. The waterfall is 10 kilometres away from the city centre and is flooded with visitors due to its proximity to the centre. The view of water flowing from 40-metre height enchants national and international tourists alike. Remember to walk around and take pictures of every shade of green in the areas surrounding Düden Waterfalls.

Antalya Archaeological Museum

One of the most important museums in Turkey, Antalya Archaeological Museum is tailor-made for history buffs. In the museum, which is open throughout the year, artefacts from the ancient period are exhibited. As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, such a museum in Antalya, which is home to many civilizations, arouses excitement for the visitors of the city.

Article: Cem Eker