Food
When it comes to food, Antalya offers a plethora of Mediterranean and Anatolian flavors that are sure to delight every palate. Seafood, fresh vegetables, and richly spiced meats form the cornerstone of Antalya cuisine.
Start your culinary adventure with a traditional Turkish breakfast comprising Menemen, scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes, green peppers, and spices. For lunch, opt for Piyaz, a white bean salad with tahini dressing, or Şiş köfte, spiced meatballs grilled on a skewer.
Don't miss out on tasting Tahini halvası, a sweet, dense, and richly flavored dessert made from tahini (sesame paste), sugar, and nuts. Pair your meals with Rakı, an anise-flavored spirit often enjoyed with meze dishes or the local Efes beer.
Culture
In Antalya, the traditional Turkish culture mingles seamlessly with modern influences. The city is renowned for its historical sites, vibrant music and dance, and world-class festivals such as the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival.
Music forms an integral part of Antalya's cultural scene, from the hypnotic rhythms of traditional Turkish music to the latest pop hits. Folk dance, particularly the energetic Zeybek, is another cultural highlight, often showcased during local festivals and events.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Antalya is from April to November when the weather is warm, and the waters of the Mediterranean are perfect for swimming.
- Language: The official language is Turkish. English is not widely spoken by older locals but is understood in most hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
- Getting Around: Public transportation, including buses and trams, is extensive and affordable. Taxis and car hire services are also readily available.
Interesting Facts
- Antalya is often called the "Turkish Riviera" due to its stunning blue waters and beautiful beaches.
- The city is home to one of the world's largest film festivals, the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival.
- Antalya is renowned for its many ancient ruins, including those of Perge and Aspendos.
- The symbol of Antalya is the ancient Roman Hadrian's Gate, built to honor Emperor Hadrian's visit in 130 A.D.
Top Places
- Old Town (Kaleiçi): Wander through the narrow, winding streets of this historic area, filled with beautifully restored Ottoman houses, shops, and cafes.
- Perge Ancient City: Explore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient Anatolian city, including a stadium, baths, and an impressive colonnaded street.
- Aspendos Theatre: This remarkably preserved Roman theater, built in the 2nd century, is a must-visit.
- Düden Waterfalls: A scenic spot where the Düden River meets the Mediterranean Sea, creating a spectacular waterfall.
- Antalya Museum: With 13 exhibition halls and an open-air gallery, it's one of Turkey's largest and most visited museums, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts from the surrounding archaeological sites.
Antalya presents a distinctive fusion of leisure, exploration, heritage, and cultural richness from the azure expanse of the Mediterranean Sea to the formidable Taurus Mountain range and from historic archaeological sites to vibrant bazaars.
