Antalya is a true paradise offering pristine beaches, exciting water sports, exquisite gastronomy, and exceptional shopping experiences. Renowned as the most popular holiday destination for Turks, Antalya is the perfect choice for a relaxing family vacation or an unforgettable getaway with friends.
What Makes the Turkish Riviera So Attractive?
The Turkish Riviera is famous for its breathtaking features: over 600 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline, 300 sunny days per year, and modern hotels designed to replicate iconic places like Venice, the Kremlin, the Titanic, or Concorde. This vibrant destination is also steeped in history, with UNESCO World Heritage relics scattered throughout the region, making it an alluring blend of relaxation and cultural discovery.
How to Get to Antalya?
Antalya is located in southern Turkey, nestled at the foot of the Taurus Mountains and along the sparkling Mediterranean coast.
It is one of the easiest cities to reach, with Antalya International Airport receiving hundreds of flights from around the world daily. From Romania, you can travel via charter flights, with a flight duration of approximately 2 hours.
If you prefer traveling by car, the journey from Bucharest to Antalya covers around 1,400 km and takes approximately 20 hours to drive. For those who choose to travel by coach, the trip takes about 2 days and typically includes one overnight stop, usually in Canakkale.
Best Time to Visit Antalya
Antalya enjoys a Mediterranean climate, featuring hot and dry summers alongside warm, rainy winters.
If you love the combination of sun, sea, and sensational landscapes, summer is your paradise in Antalya. While temperatures often exceed 30°C, the refreshing sea breeze ensures a comfortable experience, making it the perfect time to enjoy the beaches and vibrant outdoor activities.
Autumn and spring bring mild temperatures and occasional light rain, offering a more tranquil atmosphere for exploring the region’s cultural and natural treasures. These seasons are ideal if you prefer to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.
During winter, Antalya transforms into an oasis of relaxation. With its numerous spa and wellness centers and mild temperatures, it’s an excellent destination for those seeking a peaceful escape. Whether you're enjoying indoor luxuries or taking in the area's scenic beauty, Antalya remains inviting year-round.
Beaches of Antalya
While the number of natural beaches in Antalya is relatively low, with over 80% of the coastline dominated by rocky formations, the Turks have turned this challenge into an impressive achievement. Through tremendous effort, they have transformed the rocky shores into stunning beaches by importing sand from other regions, creating a true paradise with crystal-clear waters and fine golden sands.
The Most Famous Beaches
Some of the most renowned beaches in Antalya belong to the resort of Belek, located just 30 km from the city center. Known for its luxurious atmosphere and pristine shores, Belek is a must-visit for beach lovers. Another iconic destination is the beaches of Kemer, situated slightly farther from the city. Here, the dramatic meeting of mountains and sea creates breathtaking views and a unique ambiance that draws visitors from around the world.
Food Specialties to Try in Antalya
Turkey is a culinary paradise, and Antalya is no exception, offering a diverse range of dishes influenced by the cuisines of the Middle East and Central Asia. If you’re a fan of Turkish cuisine, this is where you’ll experience its true, authentic flavors. From kebabs to baklava, fresh seafood to mezes, the culinary delights of Antalya will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
When dining out, we recommend sampling traditional Turkish specialties such as meze, kebab, dolma, gozleme, kofte, or hummus. If these names are unfamiliar to you, here’s what you need to know:
- Meze: A selection of appetizers made from meat, vegetables, or fruits, often served as a starter.
- Dolma: Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, or meat, similar to Romanian sarmale.
- Gozleme: Thin flatbreads stuffed with fillings like spinach, cheese, or minced meat, cooked to golden perfection.
- Kofte: Savory meatballs seasoned with a blend of spices.
Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the opportunity to try authentic baklava, a rich pastry layered with nuts and honey. Other must-try desserts include lokma (sweet fried doughnuts) and sutlac (a creamy rice pudding). These indulgent treats perfectly capture the essence of Turkish culinary tradition.
Drinks to Complete Your Experience
After a hearty meal, treat yourself to a cup of Turkish coffee, brewed to perfection and known for its strong, bold flavor. For something more adventurous, try raki, a traditional alcoholic drink made from raisins and aniseed. Served hot, this distinctive beverage leaves a lasting impression with its unique and memorable taste.
