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. A travel plan with duration, who it suits, and booking tips.
Most travelers who search "things to do in Antalya" face the same question: a single city with history, nature and sea, but limited time. This guide divides Antalya into three parts: the city center, covered in half a day; a one-day ancient city and nature route; and a full day of sea fun. At the end you'll find 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, the easiest starting point is Kaleiçi, the historic city center. Narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, small hotels and cafés are all intertwined here. Hadrian's Gate (Hadriyanus Kapısı) is the most recognizable entrance to Kaleiçi. From there you can walk to the Old Harbour (Eski Liman). 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 relaxed pace and take breaks.
- Who it suits: Walking lovers, photography enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
- Tip: Kaleiçi's stone streets can be slippery; wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Check museum and archaeological site entrance 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 is distinguished by its location on a mountainside. You shouldn't try to visit all three in one day; choose two at most. For transport, you'll need to plan for your own vehicle or a local transport solution.
On the nature side, the Düden Waterfalls are close to the city and make a convenient route for a short break. The view of water falling into the sea at Lower Düden is especially striking. Because temperatures drop at the end of summer and in autumn, visiting the ancient cities is more comfortable then. 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 Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w/Lunch & Hotel Transfer is a day trip to Suluada Island in the Mediterranean. The tour lasts about 7.5 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Lunch is served on the boat, and there are swimming stops in turquoise coves. It starts from 55 EUR.
- Who it suits: Couples, families and friend groups who want to relax, swim and spend a calm day.
- What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
- Note: Sea conditions can change depending on the weather that day. See the information on the tour page for details.
If you're staying on the Alanya side
Antalya province is a large region; as you travel east, you reach Alanya. If you're staying in Alanya, the tours below are an easier option. These tours depart from Alanya, not from Antalya city center. Be sure to check the pickup area when booking.
- Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks: a lively pirate ship tour of about 4.5 hours. Swimming, snorkeling, lunch and drinks are included. From 20 EUR.
- Alanya : Jeep Water Fight Safari w/Lunch Alanya: Jeep Water Fight Safari w/Lunch: a jeep adventure of about 6 hours into the mountainous interior. Lunch included. From 25 EUR.
- Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer: an approximately 2-hour hammam and spa break after an active day. From 20 EUR.
How to plan in October?
In mid-October, the summer crowds in Antalya have thinned out. Sightseeing during the day is usually 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 cities and city walks for morning or early afternoon.
If you have three days, you can try this arrangement:
- 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.
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 hotel pickup and drop-off area, start time and cancellation terms 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 center, one ancient city trip and one sea tour. If you have more time, you can also make room for other ancient cities and nature routes in the area.
What can you do in Antalya with children?
A walk through Kaleiçi, a short break around the Düden Waterfalls and a boat tour are suitable options for families with children. On ancient city visits, sun exposure and walking distances can be tiring for children. Plan water and shade breaks.
Are meals and transfer included on the Suluada tour?
For Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w/Lunch & Hotel Transfer, the tour description states that lunch on the boat and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Check the booking page for current inclusions.
Do the Alanya tours pick up from Antalya city center?
Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks, Alanya : Jeep Water Fight Safari w/Lunch and Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer depart from Alanya. If you're staying in Antalya city center, check whether the pickup point covers your area before choosing these tours.
