Antalya

The Antalya Archaeology Museum hosts a remarkable array of exhibits, from perfectly preserved Roman statues and impressive sarcophagi to remnants of the theatre in Perge. Nestled amongst the icons, discover a jawbone alleged to belong to Santa Claus, born in Patara and buried in Demre. The Museum also showcases a captivating collection of traditional folk costumes and exquisite rugs, further enriching your cultural exploration.

The fluted minaret Yivliminare Mosque was built by the Sultan Ala ad-Din Kay Qubadh I in the 13th century. Decorated with dark blue tiles, is a landmark and symbol of the city. Just a stone's throw away lies the bustling city centre, along with an evocative equestrian statue of Kemal Atatürk, adding to the location's vibrant appeal.

Erected ahead of a Roman Emperor's visit in 130 AD, Hadrian's Gate offers a grand entry to Antalya's historic district. As the sole surviving gateway of the city's ancient protective walls, this triumphal arch embodies the rich past of Antalya, once known as Attaleia. Today, the gate stands on Atatürk Caddesi, bridging the bustling modern city and the charming old town of Kaleiçi, a testament to Antalya's long history and architectural prowess.

Situated approximately 18 kilometres east of Antalya, Perge (also known as Perga) was once home to the Hittites around 1500 BC, before falling under Greek colonisation post the Trojan War. The extensive ruins showcase a Roman theatre, a vast stadium, and column-lined streets harking back to the era when the Apostle Paul is believed to have made a stopover during one of his missions. Immerse yourself in the timeless tales this historic site whispers.

Nestled just 72 km from Antalya, the sun-drenched town of Manavgat awaits. Here, golden sandy beaches meet intriguing historical sites, while a picturesque waterfall and mysterious caves beckon explorers. A wealth of restaurants, accommodation options, and shops promise to make your visit to Manavgat both comfortable and enjoyable.

North of Antalya and Alanya, the Köprülü canyon and Beşkonak is a delight for all senses. It hosts ancient ruins, trout farms, and offers a welcome retreat from the coastal heat. If you're game for an adrenaline rush, why not experience the thrill of white water rafting in this lush landscape?

Perched atop the stark white cliffs of Pamukkale lies Hierapolis — an ancient city that's as rich in history as it is in thermal springs. Once a Phrygian cult centre and later a flourishing Greek city, Hierapolis boasts a well-preserved amphitheatre, an array of atmospheric ruins, and the famed Sacred Pool — a thermally heated delight where you can immerse yourself amidst submerged Roman columns, scattered by an ancient earthquake. Just a stone's throw away, the terraces of Pamukkale steal the show. These gleaming white formations, made of travertine — a sedimentary rock deposited by the mineral-rich hot waters — give the town its name, meaning 'Cotton Castle'. With temperatures ranging from 35°C to a steamy 100°C, these hot springs have been creating an expanding landscape of terraces for centuries, as calcium carbonate from the waters crystallises into the soft gel of travertine. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, Hierapolis and Pamukkale offer a unique fusion of cultural history and natural wonder that should not be missed.

Antalya Aquarium offers a chance to explore the underwater world, with thousands of different marine species on display. Feeling adventurous? You can even swim with sharks and rays. Fancy a spot of winter in the middle of summer? Visit 'Snow World' and make snowballs from real snow. The highlight of the visit is the world's largest underwater tunnel — 131 metres long and 3 metres wide.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Anjana spa, a stunning oasis steeped in traditional Turkish culture. Inspired by tales of "Arabian Nights", the Turkish bath segment invites you to partake in a time-honoured ritual or unwind with a massage. You can also indulge in a variety of other treatments like a soothing chocolate or Thai massage, or a meticulous manicure. Here, your only task is to relax and let the pampering revive your senses.

About 30 km northeast of Antalya, accessible via hiking trails, lies the ancient Pisidian city of Termessos, enveloped in the Mount Güllük-Termessos National Park. Besides breathtaking views and a rare flora and fauna, you'll find the remains of once great temples, forts and city walls. A walk along the mountain fortress will lead you across impressive sights such as the Necropole or the Odeion Theater.

One of the city’s biggest parks provides the ideal rest in the shadow on a hot day. As you stroll through Karaalioğlu Park, you can take in major sights such as the mayor’s office, a city theatre and also the old tower — Hıdırlık Kulesi — is nearby.