Antalya Holidays

Antalya is one of Turkey’s best-loved holiday regions, stretching along the Mediterranean coast beneath the Taurus Mountains. It is a good choice for UK holidaymakers who want a mix of beach time, resort comfort, historic sights and dramatic scenery, with a wide range of places to stay from lively coastal towns to quieter harbour resorts.

Antalya city is the region’s main gateway and a worthwhile base in its own right. The old quarter, Kaleiçi, has narrow lanes, Ottoman-era houses, boutique hotels, restaurants and a small harbour, while nearby Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach offer easy access to the sea. Along the coast, resorts each have their own character. Belek is known for its golf hotels and spacious beachfront resorts, Side combines sandy beaches with Roman ruins by the sea, and Alanya offers a busier resort atmosphere with a castle-topped headland and long beaches. Kemer sits between pine-covered mountains and the coast, while Kaş and Kalkan, further west, are smaller, scenic towns popular for boat trips, swimming spots and a more relaxed pace.

There is plenty to see beyond the beach. History enthusiasts can visit ancient sites such as Perge, Aspendos, Termessos, Phaselis and the ruins at Side, all giving a sense of the region’s long Greek, Roman and Byzantine past. Nature is just as important here: Düden Waterfalls, Köprülü Canyon and the mountain-backed coastline offer options for walking, rafting, boat trips and scenic drives. The Lycian Way also passes through parts of the wider region, attracting walkers outside the hottest months.

Food is another highlight of holidays in Antalya. Expect grilled fish, kebabs, pide, meze, fresh salads, gözleme and plenty of local citrus and pomegranate. Restaurants range from simple lokantas to waterfront dining spots, with resort areas offering familiar international choices too.

Antalya suits many styles of holiday, whether you want an all-inclusive beach break, a culture-rich base in the city, a family-friendly resort or a quieter coastal escape. The region’s appeal lies in how easily it combines Mediterranean beaches, ancient landmarks and mountain scenery in one trip.