Antalya, Turkey 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Antalya
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Morning: Check-in at your hotel in Kaleiçi (Old Town Antalya), a charming district filled with historic Ottoman-era houses, narrow streets, and beautiful architecture. Some recommendations are Hotel Park Antalya, Parkim Suites Hotel, or Limra Boutique Hotel.
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Lunch: Visit Hamit & Sofia Restaurant for a traditional Turkish lunch. Don’t forget to try the famous köfte, pide, and baklava.
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Afternoon: Start your tour at the Hadrian’s Gate, a three-arched monument dedicated to Roman Emperor Hadrian, then head to the Karaalioglu Park for a relaxed stroll. Next, explore the Antalya Archaeological Museum which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various civilizations that have inhabited the region.
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Evening: Take a leisurely walk along Kaleiçi’s charming streets and enjoy dinner at Kapdağ Restaurant, famous for its fresh seafood dishes, especially the balık ekmek (fish in bread). End your day with a visit to the vibrant Tünektepe Cable Car, offering panoramic views of Antalya.
Day 2: Discover Historical Sites and Relax on the Beach
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Morning: After breakfast, hire a taxi or join a tour group to visit the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. Perge is an impressive Greco-Roman city with an agora, baths, gates, and temples. Aspendos is famous for its well-preserved theatre, still used today for cultural events.
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Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch during your visit to these sites or have lunch at a local eatery near the archaeological site.
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Afternoon: Return to Antalya and head to Karaaliöğlu Beach or Lara Beach, both offering beautiful sandy shores and water sports activities. If you prefer a more secluded beach, consider visiting Minicity Beach.
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Evening: Dine at Alaaddin Restaurant, known for its succulent kebabs and traditional Turkish dishes. After dinner, explore the lively nightlife in Kaleiçi or unwind at your hotel.
Day 3: Relax at a Traditional Hammam and Explore Duden Waterfalls
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Morning: Visit a traditional Turkish hammam, such as Roman Hadrian Hammam or Şalhane Hamamı, for a rejuvenating experience.
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Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant near your hotel, or try Burçak Büfeesi, famous for its home-cooked Turkish dishes.
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Afternoon: Head to the stunning Duden Waterfalls (Karpuzlu Kalesi), where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a boat tour to the lower waterfall. Next, visit the nearby Tünektepe Park and admire the breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
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Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in Antalya at Rüstem Pasha Mosque Restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience inside the beautiful Ottoman-era mosque. Afterward, spend some time shopping for souvenirs or simply relax at your hotel before checking out.
Tips and Things to Know:
- Antalya is known for its delicious street food, so don’t forget to try simit (Turkish bagel), coban sarmasi (shepherd’s sandwich), and doner kebab.
- Always negotiate taxi fares before getting into a taxi.
- Be prepared for hot weather during the summer months, so pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
- Many attractions require an entrance fee, so make sure to carry cash or have a card with you.
- To get around Antalya, taxis are widely available, or consider renting a car if you’re comfortable driving in Turkey. Public transportation is also an option but may be less convenient for tourists.
- Remember to respect local customs and traditions during your visit.