Things to do in Antalya

Nat Geo Day Tour: Women of Antalya, Past to Present

Nearly two millennia ago, Plancia Magna blazed a trail by making an impressive impact on the city of Perge despite the usual passive role of women at that time. She was born into a wealthy, powerful family, but instead of an easy life, she used her privilege to benefit her city. Her courage, independence and character was celebrated long after her time, and inspired women through the ages to seek influential roles in society. Your National Geographic-trained guide will reveal the ancient city of Perge with a focus on the life and legacy of Plancia Magna, an inspirational figure even today. Perhaps Plancia was a source of inspiration for Hatice Adıgüzel, whose workshop you will visit next. Discover the skills and artistry involved in creating lamps and garden ornaments from gourds, and learn from Hatice herself what sets her business apart - her leadership in a male-dominated workforce, her commitment to empowering local women and her choice of sustainable materials. During a hands-on workshop, you will have the opportunity to create your own decorative gourd and learn more about Hatice's work with the local women's community. She pays her success forward by employing women to grow and decorate the gourds from their own homes for the business. They also make the snacks you'll enjoy during the workshop. Hatice's aim is to help women who are unable to work in regular employment due to childcare commitments or similar restrictions by giving them a convenient way to earn.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Exploring Antalya's Nomadic Culture

The foothills of the Taurus mountains have been a region of travel and trade for millennia. On this National Geographic tour, you'll embrace the region's ancient traditions that are still thriving today and immerse yourself in the nomadic lifestyle by visiting a Yörük family. Head over to the Seljuk bridge at Aspendos with your guide who will reveal alluring facts about the site. Built around the 4th century on the banks of Köprüçay, this architectural marvel is renowned for its distinctive zigzag design, a testament to its intriguing history. Continue your voyage and head over to the 13th-century Kargıhan caravanserai, where much of its original layout remains remarkably intact. Step back in time as you wander through the inn's chambers, guardian's quarters, bathhouse, and prayer hall alongside your guide. This is a place that radiates history, where countless travelers sought refuge and replenishment. The Yörük people have perfected their nomadic lifestyle for centuries. Every spring, communities migrate with their herds from the gentle coastal plains to the mountainous summer pastures. Spend time with a Yörük family and learn about their sustainable ways of life. Tuck into a tasty meal with eye-catching views of the Taurus mountains. Nearby, you'll find a spot to purchase locally-made goods like soaps, teas, oils, and more. Proceeds support communities affected by recent earthquakes or forest fires. Finally, Explore Ormana, an Ottoman village famous for its ingeniously crafted 'button houses'.

Side Ancient City Highlights Tour with Temple of Apollo

Ancient Side has hardly changed since its days as a getaway for legendary lovers Antony and Cleopatra. Uncover one of southern Turkey's best-kept secrets with this tour. You'll get to snap photos by the Temple of Apollo, discover the huge Roman theatre and explore modern Side, too. As Muzaffer, one of our guides, says, ‘You'll walk all over history. On the way to the Temple of Apollo, there are glass walkways over ancient Roman streets.'Side's location on a compact little headland is as romantic as it gets. Our expert local guide will give you the lowdown on the long history of this once-busy Roman port. You'll see the marketplace where slaves were traded, the Byzantine hospital and the Vespasian Gate. The ancient theatre, which is still used today, is a sight to behold – it seated up to 20,000 spectators. While the former bathhouse is now a museum with a small but impressive collection of artefacts dug up here.But one of the most-photographed spots is the Temple of Apollo. Legend says that this second-century seafront shrine was a gift from Antony to Cleopatra. And just beside it is the Temple of Athena – zoom in on the frieze of Medusa heads. Once you've explored the ruins, there'll be free time in modern Side to buy a sizzling kebab at one of the street stalls, or haggle for bargains in the backstreet bazaars. What's more, for your convenience, this is a small group tour to help you follow the guide better and avoid agglomerations.

Antalya Family Adventure Experience in Aladdin's Canyon

An experience in the Anatolian wilds awaits with a day of canyoning, swimming, diving, jumping and enjoying the best of nature in the Taurus Mountains. You'll head deep into the countryside to Ahmetler Canyon for an action-packed adventure.

Green Canyon Boat Cruise with Lunch and Orange Grove Visit

The star attractions of this full day excursion are orange orchards, shopping and a beautiful, wild canyon. You'll taste fresh orange juice, enjoy a canyon boat trip and stop for a swim at Oymapinar Dam Lake. Narin, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Oymapinar Dam Lake is one of the largest reservoirs in Turkey, covering an area of approximately 19 square kilometres. The lake is fed by the Manavgat River, which flows south from the Taurus Mountains and eventually empties into the Mediterranean Sea at Side.' Your morning starts with a quick visit to a fruit garden for some freshly squeezed orange juice. We'll then call in for a spot of shopping at Dickman Textile Centre. If fashion is your thing, then you're in luck as you can enjoy a stress-free browse for clothing and accessories without the hassle of pushy salespeople. Next, we'll head for a riverside restaurant to enjoy a freshly prepared lunch made with locally sourced ingredients. After lunch it's all aboard, ready for a cruise down the canyon waterway. Spectacularly rugged rock formations tower around you and the river, in shades of turquoise and green, snakes away into the distance. It's a tranquil slice of Turkish natural beauty and the colour of the water is spellbinding. You'll cruise the canyon, admiring the views, before the boat slows - you'll be able to swim in these wild surroundings once the boat reaches the Oymapinar Lake.

Adults-only Gulet Cruise with Lunch from Side

This relaxing boat trip serves-up all the little luxuries that make being on holiday so special. Set sail from Side aboard this adults-only cruise for a day of sun, sea and snoozing. What's more, there's an open bar stocked with local drinks, lunch, and plenty of chances to refresh yourself with a swim in the open water.

Gulet Cruise with Lunch from Side

This excursion combines history with relaxation. Kick off with a guided tour of ancient Side – its classical links include none other than Alexander the Great. See the ruins of Vespasian Gate, Temple of Apollo and the theatre. Located on the shores of the Mediterranean, its location is one of the prettiest among Turkey's archaeological sites. Bring your swimwear and a towel and get ready to live the life on board the yacht. Your captain will drop anchor from time to time so that you can take a dip in the water. Lunch will be served on board and all locally branded drinks are included.

Phaselis & Tahtali Mountain Day Tour

If you'd like an insight into Antalya's past and present, then this day tour will tick all the boxes. You've got history at the ancient ruins of Phaselis and panoramic views with a ride on the Olympos Aerial Tram. What's more, there's time to visit one of Antalya's best beaches and enjoy lunch at the top of Mt Tahtali.

Antalya Airport VIP Lounge from Antalya Area

A more relaxed way to round off your holiday. Booking the VIP airport service and lounge ensures that you'll be greeted at the airport and then fast-tracked through check-in, hand luggage security and passport control.

Antalya Old Town Tour with Karpuzkaldiran Waterfall

Thundering over the cliffs into the Mediterranean Sea, the Karpuzkaldiran waterfall is a sight to behold. This leisurely tour will take you to snap the falls before heading into Antalya's old town for a guided walk and some free time to explore.

Summer Tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis with Lake Salda

This summer tour takes you to Pamukkale, which means ‘cotton castle' in Turkish – and you'll see why as soon as you set eyes upon its magical landscape. Heading deep into the Anatolian countryside, you'll also visit Hierapolis, Lake Salda and Cleopatra's Pool.

Manavgat Market & Waterfall Tour with Riverboat Cruise

Sightseeing and a relaxing river cruise – there's something for everyone on this full day tour, exploring Manavgat bazaar and the beautiful surrounding area. Visit Manavgat Falls and enjoy a riverboat cruise.Everything begins at the Manavgat Falls on the River Manavgat. They're known as the ‘Little Falls' as their fast-flowing waters crash down a ridge into a bubbly, foaming fresh-water pool. Next, you can grab a bargain at a multi-brand outlet store, before heading inland for Manavgat's open air bazaar for more retail therapy. You'll hop onboard a riverboat cruise along the Manavgat next. Sit back and relax in the sunshine as you sail past reed beds and sandy beaches. After lunch on board, you'll moor at a beach, where the sea and the river meet. A perfect swimming opportunity ends this jam-packed day out.