ABOUT ANTALYA

Antalya, the Turkish Riviera is the most stunning part of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. It is typical of Turkey, a thriving modern city, with a historic heart in the centre of Kaleiçi within the old city walls. This area has seen something of a renaissance in recent years, with many of the wooden Ottoman mansions being restored and turned into boutique hotels. No cars are allowed in the narrow streets of the old town so it is a good place to soak up the atmosphere around the charming harbour. The symbol of Antalya is the fluted minaret or Yivli Minare built by the Seljuks in the 13th century. There are plenty of interesting pieces in the Archaeological Museum, from the Palaeolithic Age right through to Ottoman times.

The average high in Antalya is 20ºC in November, which is perfectly warm enough to spend the day at the beach. You should bring some warmer clothes for the evenings though as it can get quite chilly at night. The sea temperature's a refreshing 22ºC, while the humidity is low.

The Museum of Antalya: Founded in 1922 by Süleyman Fikri Erten and housed first in the Alaaddin Mosque in the old city and then in the Yivli Minaret, the museum was later moved to its current location. This museum which has started in its new building in 1972 is considered one of the most important museums in Turkey for its contents, works from Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Turkish periods. The museum consists of 12 display halls, gardens and open galleries. In these halls the history of Antalya is given in a chronological and instructive fashion starting with the first humans and continuing without interruption to the modern era. There is also a new section called “Children’s Museum” which intends to interest children in museums. It also serves as a nursery for the children so that the parents can enjoy their visits to the museum.

Aspendos: Just 50 km east of Antalya, Aspendos was an important centre of trade during Roman times. Today, the most impressive aspect of Aspendos is her stunning theatre, which was built in approx. 162 AD. It seats 15,000 and has been beautifully preserved. Each year it hosts the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival which takes place in June and July and gives you the opportunity to see performances of classics in a magnificent setting. The aqueduct, which supplied water to the city is also still relatively intact and is an impressive sight.

Phaselis: The three harbours of this Lycian port city were once a major commercial centre. In the shelter of Mount Tahtalı, it is a popular stopping off point for yachts, and its clear waters and sandy beaches are popular with sun-seekers. The remains are mostly Roman and include a theatre, baths, aqueducts, Hadrian’s Gate, an agora and an acropolis.

Ephesus : Ephesus - is one of the important antique cities of Small Asia, preserved till our days, its population was about 250 thousand people. You can see the wonderful Celsius Library, roman baths, and popular amphitheater, which can accommodate more than 25 thousand spectators. Also, you will have the opportunity to visit the 8th Wonder of the World - a place where was the church of Artemisia and visit the house of Saint Virgin Maria, a significant place for the Christian world.

Manavgat Waterfall : Manavgat Waterfall on the Manavgat River is near the city of Side, 3 km north of Manavgat, Turkey. Its high flow over a wide area as it falls from a low height is best viewed from a high altitude. The white, foaming water of the Manavgat Waterfalls flows powerfully over the rocks. Near the waterfalls are shady tea gardens providing a pleasant resting place. The Oymapinar Dam has located 12 km to the north of the river. During floods, the Manavgat Falls may disappear under high water. The waterfall was depicted on the reverse of the Turkish 5 lira banknotes of 1968-1983.

Land of Legends Theme Park : The park features a wide variety of attractions and entertainment options, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows. The park also has a number of themed areas, such as a "Wild West" section and a "Fantasy Kingdom" section, as well as a number of restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Some of the highlighted attractions of this park are the world's longest lazy river, wave pool, large-scale water slide, and much more. Additionally, the park also has a luxury hotel on its grounds. The park is considered as a major tourist destination in Antalya, Turkey, and is generally most famous for its water park.

Perge : Is one of the most popular historical sites in the Antalya region, known for its ancient Greek and Roman ruins dating back to 1300 BC, including a grand amphitheater that once held 15,000 spectators. This site is conveniently located nearest to Antalya city center and serves as the starting point for the renowned Saint Paul's Road, a popular hiking trail in the region and throughout Turkey. Believed to be one of the oldest cities during the Roman era and also existed during the Hittite period, Perge flourished in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, during which time the majority of its structures were built. The city was renowned for its architecture, marble sculpting, and statues, and was one of the most significant sculpture production centers of ancient times. Numerous artifacts and relics from Perge's rich history are currently exhibited at the Antalya Museum, allowing visitors to further explore and appreciate this incredible site. Manavgat Waterfall on the Manavgat River is near the city of Side, 3 km north of Manavgat, Turkey. Its high flow over a wide area as it falls from a low height is best viewed from a high altitude. The white, foaming water of the Manavgat Waterfalls flows powerfully over the rocks. Near the waterfalls are shady tea gardens providing a pleasant resting place. The Oymapinar Dam has located 12 km to the north of the river. During floods, the Manavgat Falls may disappear under high water. The waterfall was depicted on the reverse of the Turkish 5 lira banknotes of 1968-1983.