Best things to do in Antalya Province

Swim along the long coast of Kleopatra Beach, most notable for its crystal clear water. According to legend, Egyptian Queen Cleopatra visited Alanya and chose this beach for a swim. Bask in the warm rays on this sandy beach and play in the large waves. You'll find beach bars nearby to satisfy your hunger. If possible, bring snorkelling gear to catch sightings of fish just beneath the water's surface.

Surrounded by steep cliffs and forest, Kaputas Beach combines unspoiled natural beauty with a secluded setting. This spot can only be accessed via a long flight of stairs, which adds to its remote feel and appeal. While there are no fixed amenities, traveling vendors sell snacks and rent umbrellas here. Relax on the sand or paddle in the turquoise waters. The shores are shallow and ideal for children to play and splash in. It is a good idea to bring water and other essentials with you.

Feel the enormous weight of history at the ancient ruins of Apollon Temple on the Side peninsula. Dedicated the Greek god of light and sun, the temple has a counterpart dedicated to Athena, and both were constructed around the 2nd century CE. Take in a view of the harbor from here and appreciate the intricate detailing of the marble. While most of the temple lies in ruins, the remaining columns and foundation make it easy to imagine how this impressive temple would have once appeared.

Also referred to as Old Antalya, Kaleici represents the historical center of the city. Up until World War II, it was one and the same city as Antalya, but rapid development in the decades since has created two cities. The historical center features narrow streets squeezed between old houses on the Roman harbor along the Mediterranean coast. Several entrances allow you access to the old town; the most historical and best-known is Hadrian's Gate. Wander the ancient city streets to find restaurants offering authentic Turkish dishes.

Lower Duden Waterfalls includes two distinct waterfall attractions. The upper falls bring together a collection of small falls in a quiet municipal park, while the lower waterfall creates one impressive cascade that spills over the Antalya city cliffs from the Duden River into the sea. The upper falls are easier to reach, but many make the trip to the lower falls. Take a spiral staircase that leads into a natural cave behind the falls, where you'll feel their power and be treated to a view from behind a wall of water.

A medieval castle built high atop a hill, Alanya Kalesi now serves as an open-air museum. The castle was constructed mostly in the 13th century on the remains of former fortifications from the Byzantine and Roman eras. Built on a rocky peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea, the castle stands 250 m (820 ft) high and offers an unmatched view of the bay and the surrounding area. Make the long trek up, or jump in a taxi to reach the ruins of the massive castle, whose protective wall extends 6.5 km (4 mi), and which includes 140 towers. The site itself lacks a lot of historical information, so hire a local guide if you wish to learn more.

Situated between beaches and mountains completely immersed in greenery, Phaselis presents the crumbling remains of what was once an important harbor for the region. Merchants from Greece, Egypt, and Asian countries used it for commerce from the 7th century BCE. As you walk along its 24 m (79 ft) wide central street, you'll encounter ruins of ancient perfumeries and other stores, plus structures that housed lavish Roman baths, and theaters more than two millennia old. You'll also find forgotten artifacts and sarcophagi here. If the weather's right, you may want to refresh yourself in the sea right next to the ancient city.