Things to Do in Antalya: Kaleiçi, Ancient Cities and a Sea Day
Things to do in Antalya: Kaleiçi, waterfalls, ancient cities and a Suluada boat day. An itinerary with duration, who it suits and booking tips.
"Things to do in Antalya" is what most travellers search for, and they face the same question: one city offers history, nature and sea, but time is limited. This guide divides Antalya into three parts: the city centre, visited in half a day; a one-day trip to ancient cities and nature routes; and a full day of sea fun. By the end, you will know how much time to set aside for each activity and how to book.
Half a day: Kaleiçi and the Old Harbour
For first-time visitors to Antalya, the easiest starting point is Kaleiçi, the historic old town. Narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, small hotels and cafés are all intertwined here. Hadrian's Gate (Hadriyanus Kapısı) is the most famous entrance to Kaleiçi. From there you can walk to the Old Harbour. From the terraces around the harbour, you can see the Mediterranean and the mountain range behind it.
- Duration: 3–4 hours is enough; set aside half a day to wander at a leisurely pace and take breaks.
- Suitable for: Those who enjoy walking, photography enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
- Tip: The stone streets of Kaleiçi can be slippery; wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Check museum and archaeological site entry fees and opening hours before your visit.
One day: Ancient cities and nature
The area around Antalya is full of ancient cities. The best known are Perge, Aspendos and Termessos. The Roman theatre at Aspendos stands out for its well-preserved structure. Termessos, however, is distinguished by its location on a mountainside. You should not try to visit all three in one day; choose two at most. You will need to plan transport with your own car or a local transport option.
On the nature side, the Düden Waterfalls are close to the city, making them a suitable route for a short break. At Lower Düden, the view of water falling into the sea is particularly appealing. As temperatures drop at the end of summer and in autumn, visiting the ancient cities is more comfortable. Still, bring a hat, water and sunscreen.
Full day at sea: Suluada
If you don't want to see the sea only from the beach, a boat tour is a good choice. [Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w\/Lunch & Hotel Transfer](\/tour\/antalya-suluada-island-cruise-w-lunch-hotel-transfer-103) Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w\/Lunch & Hotel Transfer is a day trip to Suluada Island in the Mediterranean. The tour takes about 7.5 hours and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. Lunch is served on the boat, and swimming stops are offered in turquoise coves. It starts from 55 EUR.
- Suitable for: Couples, families and groups of friends who want to relax, swim and spend a quiet day.
- What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
- Note: Sea conditions may vary depending on the weather on the day. See the tour page for details.
If you are staying on the Alanya side
Antalya province is a large region; as you head east, you reach Alanya. If you are staying in Alanya, the tours below are an easier option. These tours depart from Alanya, not from Antalya city centre. Be sure to check the pick-up area when booking.
- [Alanya: Pirate Boat w\/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks](\/tour\/alanya-pirate-boat-w-transfer-lunch-soft-drinks-101) Alanya: Pirate Boat w\/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks: an energetic pirate boat tour of about 4.5 hours. Swimming, snorkelling, lunch and drinks are part of the programme. From 20 EUR.
- [Alanya : Jeep Water Fight Safari w\/Lunch](\/tour\/alanya-jeep-water-fight-safari-w-lunch-102) Alanya: Jeep Water Fight Safari w\/Lunch: an approximately 6-hour jeep adventure into the mountainous interior. Lunch included. From 25 EUR.
- [Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w\/ Transfer](\/tour\/alanya-turkish-bath-hamam-spa-experiance-w-transfer-104) Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w\/ Transfer: an approximately 2-hour hammam and spa break after an active day. From 20 EUR.
What should you plan for October?
In mid-October, the summer crowds in Antalya have thinned. Daytime sightseeing is generally more comfortable. Although the sea is often suitable for swimming, air and sea temperatures vary from year to year, so check forecasts before you arrive. Days get dark early. Schedule ancient city visits and walking tours for the morning or early afternoon.
If you have three days, you could try this itinerary:
- Day 1: Kaleiçi, Hadrian's Gate and the Old Harbour.
- Day 2: One ancient city and the Düden Waterfalls.
- Day 3: Suluada sea tour [Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w\/Lunch & Hotel Transfer](\/tour\/antalya-suluada-island-cruise-w-lunch-hotel-transfer-103).
How do you book?
TurB2C offers tours and activities from licensed local agencies in Türkiye. You can choose your date and book from the tour page. Check details such as the hotel pick-up area, start time and cancellation conditions before booking.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough in Antalya?
Three days is a reasonable amount of time to comfortably see the city centre, one ancient city trip and one sea tour. If you have more time, you can make room for other ancient cities and nature routes in the area.
What can you do in Antalya with children?
A walk around Kaleiçi, a short break near the Düden Waterfalls and a boat tour are suitable options for families with children. On ancient city trips, the sun and walking distances can be tiring for children. Plan water and shade breaks.
Are food and transfer included in the Suluada tour?
For [Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w\/Lunch & Hotel Transfer](\/tour\/antalya-suluada-island-cruise-w-lunch-hotel-transfer-103), the tour description states that lunch on the boat and pick-up and drop-off from your hotel are included. Check the current inclusions on the booking page.
Do the Alanya tours depart from Antalya city centre?
[Alanya: Pirate Boat w\/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks](\/tour\/alanya-pirate-boat-w-transfer-lunch-soft-drinks-101), [Alanya : Jeep Water Fight Safari w\/Lunch](\/tour\/alanya-jeep-water-fight-safari-w-lunch-102) and [Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w\/ Transfer](\/tour\/alanya-turkish-bath-hamam-spa-experiance-w-transfer-104) all depart from Alanya. If you are staying in Antalya city centre, check whether the pick-up point covers your area before selecting these tours.
