Things to Do in Antalya: Kaleiçi, Ancient Cities and a Day at Sea
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 for "things to do in Antalya" face the same question: one city has history, nature and sea, but time is limited. This guide divides Antalya into three parts: the city center, which takes half a day; a one-day route of ancient cities and nature; and a full day of sea enjoyment. At the end you will find how much time to set aside for each activity and how to book.
Half a day: Kaleiçi and the Old Harbour
The easiest starting point for first-time visitors to Antalya is Kaleiçi, the historic city center. Narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, small hotels and cafés are intertwined here. Hadrian's Gate (Hadriyanus Kapısı) is the most famous entrance point 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 without rushing and take breaks.
- Suitable for: Those who like walking, photography enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
- Tip: The stone streets of Kaleiçi can be slippery; wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Check the entrance fees and opening hours of museums and archaeological sites 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 with its well-preserved structure. Termessos is distinguished from the others by its location on a mountainside. You should not visit all three in the same day; choose at most two. For transport, you will need to plan your own vehicle or a local transport solution.
On the nature side, the Düden Waterfalls are close to the city and a suitable short route for a break. The view of water falling into the sea at Lower Düden is especially appealing. Since temperatures drop in late summer and autumn, visiting the ancient cities is more comfortable then. Still, bring a hat, water and sunscreen.
Full day at sea: Suluada
If you do not 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 swimming stops in turquoise coves are included. It starts from 55 EUR.
- Suitable for: Couples, families and groups of friends who want to relax, swim and spend a calm day.
- What to bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
- Note: Sea conditions may change depending on the weather that day. For details, see the information on the tour page.
If you are staying on the Alanya side
Antalya province is a large region; as you travel east, you reach Alanya. If you are staying in Alanya, the tours below are an easier option. These tours start 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: an active pirate boat tour of about 4.5 hours. Swimming, snorkelling, lunch and drinks are part of the program. From 20 EUR.
- Alanya : Jeep Water Fight Safari w/Lunch 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 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 decreased. 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 come. Daylight fades early. Schedule ancient sites 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 conditions before booking.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for 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 surrounding area.
What can you do in Antalya with children?
Walking in Kaleiçi, a short break around 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, the tour description states that lunch on the boat and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Check the current inclusions on the booking page.
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 start from Alanya. If you are staying in Antalya city center, check whether the pickup point covers your area before choosing these tours.
