Antalya

Antalya is entirely located on the west side of the Mediterranean Region. It’s the fifth largest city in Turkey in terms of land area . South of it, is the Mediterranean sea, west of Muğla, the north side of it is Burdur and Isparta, northeast of it Konya and east of it is Karaman and Mersin.

The city of Antalya started growing rapidly after the year 1980 due to its suitable climate and tourism events, and thanks to this its the fifth most crowded city in Turkey. Antalya’s economic life highly depends on trade, agriculture and tourism.

The area covered by the city of Antalya has been home to many civilizations to this day and is the city in Turkey which has the most ancient cities within its border. The province of Antalya generally has a Mediterranean climate. Due to its wide coastline, natural beauty and soft climate it’s very popular among tourists. It’s known that a record 13.6 million tourists passed through the population of the city in 2019.

Places to Visit in Antalya

You’re in the city which has the most ancient cities within Turkey’s borders, Antalya… The king of Pergamon ordered his soldiers to “Go and find me the most beautiful place on earth.” The place the soldiers showed him was Antalya. The king liked Antalya so much he founded a port city. It’s the reason the city is named after the king Attalos, then the name changed into the way it is now, Antalya, from Ataleia after the first quarter of the 20th century. Throughout the years the civilizations changed but the beautiful city kept having remains of each and every one. Now let’s explore the antic cities you must check out during your visit in Antalya:

Aspendos Ancient City
Aspendos Ancient City, one of the most significant destinations for historical and cultural tours in Antalya, is located just 46 kilometers away from the city center. Built in the 10th century BC and preserved up to the present day, this ancient city offers a glimpse into the finest examples of Roman-era architecture. The renowned Ancient Aspendos Theater, capable of hosting 20,000 people and known for hosting classical music festivals and artistic events during the summer months, is situated on the two hills of the city, offering a great view of the region. Aspendos Ancient City, once the wealthiest city of its time, invites you to embark on a journey through history as you explore its historical Roman baths, agoras, aqueducts, acropolis, and temples.

Olympos Ancient City (Lycia)
One of the hidden paradises of Antalya, Olimpos, captivates its visitors with its magnificent sea and perfect weather. With its untouched artifacts preserved for centuries, you can see the area where efforts have been made to protect the natural beauty in Olympos.

Side Ancient City
Located 73 kilometers away from Antalya in the district of Manavgat, the enchanting Ancient City of Side is one of the most significant ancient cities of the Pamphylia region. Being an indispensable destination for historical and cultural tours in Antalya, this ancient city is situated in the center of Side and is surrounded by beaches, restaurants, hotels, and bazaars.

Perge Ancient City
Perge Ancient City, located only 16 kilometers away from Antalya and considered one of the nearest ancient cities to the region, is believed to have been constructed during the Hittite period. Known as Parha in those times, Perge was also one of the most developed cities in Anatolia during the Roman era. With its impressive sculptures and orderly architecture, Perge attracts attention. Built in the 2nd century AD, its colossal ancient theater with a capacity of 15,000 people, monumental fountains, Roman baths, and agoras contribute to its allure. As a result, Perge stands among the most visited ancient cities of Antalya.

Patara Ancient City
Patara is one of the natural beauties with its world famous beach and Caretta Caretta sea turtles but with also Patara Ancient City where tourists visit for sure. Located in the mysterious Xanthos Valley between Kaş and Fethiye, Patara was the largest and most significant city of the Lycian period. Serving as the era’s foremost trade center, the Ancient City of Patara now captivates history and archaeology enthusiasts from all around the world with its well-preserved historical treasures.

Xanthos Ancient City
Situated between Antalya and Muğla, the Ancient City of Xanthos rises on two dominant hillsides along the Eşen River, formerly known as the Xanthos River. Xanthos holds significant importance due to its inclusion on Turkey’s UNESCO World Heritage List. Believed to have been constructed in the 8th century BC, Xanthos served as the administrative center and capital of the Lycian League. This ancient city, known for its people’s involvement in the Trojan War, also gained recognition as one of the most democratic cities of its time. Renowned for its colossal ancient theater built into the mountainside, the Ancient City of Xanthos offers a marvelous opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs of both this ancient theater and the numerous historical artifacts that extend along the hillsides.

Magydos Ancient City
Magydos Ancient City is located 8 kilometers away from the city center of Antalya, and is believed to have been founded in the 4th century BC. With a history dating back 2400 years, this city was established between the area known today as Karpuzkıran Beach and a military zone. As it was mentioned alongside the Katarrhaktes (Düden) River by ancient geographers, there isn’t much more information available about Magydos beyond what is inferred from these references.

Termessos Ancient City
The ancient city, believed to have been constructed by the Luwian and Solym civilizations, which are among the oldest known civilizations in Anatolia, is located within the Termessos National Park, an ideal spot for nature walks. You can explore the Termessos National Park and the Termessos Ancient City through Antalya’s historical and cultural tours, where you’ll encounter captivating landscapes reminiscent of South America’s Maya and Inca cities. The ancient city has been the subject of numerous archaeological excavations, and the priceless historical artifacts discovered there are displayed in a dedicated section at the Antalya Museum.

Sillyon Ancient City
Situated 18 kilometers away from Antalya city center and located between the ancient cities of Aspendos and Perge, Sillyon Ancient City is constructed on a high hill, commanding a dominant position over the region. This impressive ancient city, which once served as the capital of the Pamphylia region, was among the richest and most beautiful cities in the world during its time. As one of the closest ancient cities to Antalya, Sillyon is frequently visited by both local and foreign tourists. In Sillyon Ancient City, you can explore the 8,000-seat ancient theater nestled in the mountainside, as well as remnants of an agora, house ruins, towers, and castle ruins. Additionally, you can witness historical structures built later in the city area, such as the Seljuk Mosque and the Byzantine Church.

Myra Ancient City
Antalya’s Myra Ancient City, located close to the Kaş district, famously known as the home of Santa Claus, has captivating ruins that extend from the town of Demre up into the hillsides. The well-preserved remains and the Likian rock-cut tombs that on the cliffs create an impressive and picturesque landscape.

Featuring faces of people, mystical figures, and sculptures carved into massive stone blocks, Myra Ancient City offers a beautiful journey through history.