Antalya is not just a popular holiday destination – it is the heart of the Turkish Riviera, where the azure sea, historical landmarks, and mouth-watering Turkish cuisine form a magical unity. In this post, we’ll show you why Antalya deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
TIP: I recommend renting a car to explore the region, as Antalya’s main attractions are spread out.
Extra TIP: The currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs. While most places accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand when visiting smaller shops and bazaars.
History:
Antalya’s rich history dates back to ancient times. The city was founded in the 2nd century BC by King Attalus II of Pergamon, who was looking for a “heaven on Earth.” The marks of the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman eras can still be seen today – especially in the Old Town (Kaleiçi), where narrow streets, ancient city walls, and historic mosques await visitors.
What to See in Antalya – Don’t Miss These Between Beach Days
Antalya is one of the most colorful cities on the Mediterranean coast – and luckily, the Victoria Cruises Residential Ship docks here too! If you go ashore, you’ll have plenty to explore: historical quarters, a waterfall on the edge of the city, and of course, sunny beaches. Here are some must-see places:
🏛️ Kaleiçi – A Walk Through the Old Town
Antalya’s historical center, Kaleiçi, is a true Mediterranean labyrinth: cobblestone streets, painted balconies, tiny cafés, and boutique shops everywhere. It’s the perfect place to lose track of time during an afternoon stroll.
🛡️ Hadrian’s Gate – An Ancient Entrance to the Old Town
This Roman triumphal arch was built in honor of Emperor Hadrian and is still one of Antalya’s most famous historical sights. Today, it still serves as a gateway into Kaleiçi and is a great photo spot for history lovers.
🏺 Antalya Museum – One of Turkey’s Richest Collections
If you’re interested in archaeology, don’t miss the Antalya Museum. You’ll see artifacts, statues, and mosaics thousands of years old, showcasing the region’s history from the Bronze Age to the Roman Empire.
🏖️ Konyaaltı & Lara Beaches – Two Faces, One Sea
Of Antalya’s two most famous beaches, Konyaaltı offers a long, pebbled shoreline, more natural and tranquil, while Lara features softer sand, more bars, and beach clubs. Whether you’re looking for activity or relaxation, neither will disappoint.
💦 Düden Waterfall – Nature’s Spectacular Side
A special sight right on the city’s edge: the Düden Waterfall cascades in several branches, one of which falls straight into the sea. A short taxi ride or organized tour from the ship makes it easily accessible – and visually unforgettable.
Explore the Surroundings of Antalya – 5 Places Not to Miss
Antalya is amazing, but if you have a few free days, it’s worth heading out to discover the surrounding area. Believe me, there are incredible places less than an hour away – ancient ruins, waterfalls, flaming hillsides… All you need is a car (or a guided tour), and your adventure begins!
🕌 Perge – A Real Journey Back in Time
(Approx. 30 minutes from Antalya – by car or tour)
Perge feels like walking through an ancient movie set – except it’s real. The main street is lined with columns, and the ruins of baths and fountains let you feel what life was like 2,000 years ago. There are fewer tourists than in other ruins, so your photos will come out even better.
TIP: Perge, Aspendos, Side and Waterfalls Tour
🎭 Aspendos – A Theater That Withstood the Centuries (Approx. 1 hour by car)
This is a true time travel experience – the Roman theater is so well-preserved that performances are still held here today! Sit in the audience and imagine the thousands who once watched shows here… and it still works. The acoustics are incredible – if you clap, they’ll hear it on the other side.
⛰️ Termessos – A Hidden City in the Mountains (Approx. 1 hour from Antalya + short hike)
This isn’t a casual walk, but if you love hiking, you’ll adore it! The ruins of Termessos lie atop a mountain, surrounded by pine forest, with an absolutely breathtaking view. No cafés, no souvenir stands – just nature and history. Perfect if you seek a quiet, untamed place.
🔥 Chimaera and Olympos – Where the Earth Really Burns (Approx. 1.5–2 hours from Antalya)
Legend has it the fire-breathing Chimera once lived here, and flames still rise naturally from the mountainside. It’s impressive by day, but mystical after dark. Nearby is Olympos, a former pirate city hidden in the jungle, and the beach is stunning too. Visit both – swimming, ruins, fire – all in one day.
🌊 Kemer – A Bit of Luxury in Nature (Approx. 1 hour from Antalya – by bus or car)
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing day, head to Kemer! Neat beaches, a pretty little town, and mountains in the background. This is also where classic boat trips depart, cruising among cliffs, caves, and turquoise bays. It’s a bit touristy, but very pleasant – especially if you want to chill by the sea.
TIP: Suluada Island Boat Tour with Lunch
🎈 Hot Air Ballooning in Antalya – High Above the Mediterranean
If you want something truly special on land, consider a hot air balloon ride near Antalya. While not as iconic as Cappadocia, the terrain, the sea views, and the sunrise create an unforgettable sight from above.
Most balloon tours start about 1–1.5 hours from Antalya, in areas like Pamukkale or Serik. They usually depart early in the morning, so you’ll be in the air by sunrise. The view – with mountains, coastline, and orange groves glowing in the morning light – is simply magical.
TIP: Sunrise Balloon Tour in Pamukkale
Flavors to Try in Antalya – The Best of Turkish Cuisine with a Touch of the Sea
Antalya stands out not just for its stunning coastline but also for its flavors. Every corner greets you with something delicious, fragrant, and freshly made – from spicy meats to crispy doughs. If you go ashore, explore the plates as well as the city! Here are a few local favorites:
🥟 Pide – Known as “Turkish Pizza”
Long, crispy dough topped with minced meat, cheese, egg – or all three. Best enjoyed freshly baked!
🍢 Kebap in All Forms
Adana kebap is spicier, Iskender kebap is juicy with yogurt and tomato sauce… no matter which you choose, the spices are always perfect.
🍋 Meze Platters
Pre-meal bites – eggplant dip, stuffed grape leaves, yogurt salads – go great with a glass of cold ayran or refreshing lemonade.
🍬 Baklava and Lokum
If you’re ever going to indulge in sweets, Turkey is the place. Baklava is honeyed, nutty, and crisp-layered; lokum (Turkish delight) is sweet and fragrant with rosewater or pistachio.
🍊 Fresh Pomegranate and Orange Juice
Not a joke – really available on every corner, freshly squeezed, refreshing, healthy, and full of sunshine.
🌿 Flavors from Turkey – Brought Aboard the Ship
Victoria Cruises Residential Ship doesn’t just bring the world closer to its guests, it brings local flavors too. During its stop in Turkey, it sources unique ingredients used in onboard restaurants to create special dishes. Learn more here
• Raisins – Made from sweet, seedless grapes grown along the Aegean coast, these are a key ingredient in shipboard desserts.
• Turkish Hazelnuts – From the Black Sea region, they’re crunchy and rich in flavor – perfect for pastries and breakfast muesli.
• Pine Nuts – A Mediterranean gift, these flavorful, oily seeds are often used in dolma, salads, and sauces aboard.
🌹 A Touch of Turkish Rose on Board
The ship sources high-quality rose oil from the Isparta region, used not only in the onboard wellness center but also in culinary specialties – such as rose-flavored lokum or rosewater desserts. Victoria Cruises doesn’t just take you to magical places – it brings the experience on board as well.
Antalya is the perfect choice for those who want to relax, explore, and enjoy rich flavors all at once. The city has everything for an ideal vacation – beautiful beaches, stunning historical landmarks, and warm-hearted locals. Whether you’re coming for a weekend or a longer stay, Antalya is sure to steal your heart.