Antalya Essentials🌞

Antalya – where the Mediterranean meets the mountains 🌊⛰️

☀️ In 2025 I was lucky to visit Antalya twice — in May and in September. Sun, sea, beaches, and mountain views are at their best here. But beware of the tricky Turkish sun - without sunscreen you’ll quickly turn into a “boiled crab.”

🎯 Activities & Places:
• Kaleiçi (Old Town) – narrow Ottoman-style streets, small cafes, souvenir shops, and a lively marina. Walking here feels like stepping back in time.
• Hadrian’s Gate – the grand Roman arch built in honor of Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD. It’s the most iconic entrance to Kaleiçi and a perfect photo spot.
• Lara Beach – a long sandy beach, popular for luxury resorts and family holidays.
• Konyaaltı Beach – a wide pebble beach with stunning views of the Taurus Mountains, ideal for sunsets.
• Upper Düden Waterfall – a peaceful park with picnic areas and shady paths.
• Lower Düden Waterfall – a dramatic cascade plunging directly into the Mediterranean, best admired from a boat tour.
And don’t miss the Sunday market in Lara — colorful stalls with fruits, spices, and local clothing.

🍽️ Food & Prices: Try local kebabs, fresh seafood, and of course Turkish delights. Prices can be unpredictable — bargaining is normal and even expected.

🚍 Transport & Tips: Public transport is tricky: many stops lack names or schedules. Drivers rarely respect pedestrians — I nearly got hit twice even on a crosswalk! Sellers and café hosts can also be persistent, so be ready to politely decline.

💡 Pro Tip: Antalya is best in spring and early autumn: fewer crowds, warm sea, and cooler evenings for exploring Kaleiçi.

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