Best things to do in Olympos

Secluded Cirali Beach remains free of high-rise developments and big crowds largely thanks to its status as a protected area. Home to a population of endangered loggerhead turtles, which swim ashore to lay their eggs in the sand, the beach offers a 3 km (1.8 mi) stretch of pristine Mediterranean coastline. This area offers few modern facilities, but you can find several simple but cozy restaurants and inns at the nearby village of Cirali. Spend some time watching the turtles and swimming, and then consider exploring the area's ancient Lycian ruins.

At Chimaera, see the natural phenomenon of eternal flames leaping from the cracks in the mountain, which most likely inspired the myth of the ancient Greek monster of the same name. According to Homer's Iliad, the hero Bellerophon fought the fire-spitting hybrid of snake, lion, and goat on this very site. The constantly burning fires are caused by natural gasses like methane that spew from the rock. Walk from the park to the top of the "burning stone," past flaming gas vents to the remains of a temple dedicated the Greek god of fire. Wear hiking shoes, and be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp if you'll be hiking in the dark.

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.

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.

Nestled in a dense forest of oleanders, wild figs, and bay trees, Olympos Archeological Site represents the times of knights and pirate sieges. Rising to prominence in the 2nd century BCE, the town was successively ruled by the Greeks, Romans, and Venetians. Riches and art flourished here until pirates brought death and poverty in the 3rd century CE, after which the site served as a fortress. In the 15th century it was finally abandoned. Walk through the remains of this great city and find millennia-old marks of ancient civilizations like darnel-covered walls, sculptures, and sarcophagi.

Antalya Aquarium features 40 thematic aquariums and one of the world's biggest tunnel aquariums. Journey through the exhibits, encountering poisonous and colorful species in the tropical reptile house, and then sail out on a virtual tour around the globe in the Ocean-ride X-D cinema. Cafes and restaurants on the terrace floor and near the entrance offer various refreshments. On the terrace floor, you can get a treatment by "doctor fishes." The aquarium arranges underwater pirate shows with mermaids for children, as well as occasional violin concerts.