Turkey
Turkey sits between Europe and Asia. It is bordered by the Aegean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. The capital city is Ankara. Istanbul is the largest and most well-known city. Other major cities include Izmir and Antalya.
People visit Turkey for its history, warm climate, beaches, and food. It offers good value and a wide mix of experiences. You can explore ancient ruins, relax by the sea, shop in lively markets, and enjoy local dishes. It is a country where different cultures and time periods blend naturally.
Our Visit to the Antalya Region
Antalya is located on the south coast of Turkey, along the Mediterranean Sea. It is often referred to as the Turkish Riviera. The region is known for its beaches, clear waters, ancient sites, and large resorts. Mountains, rivers, and natural parks are also close by.
We used Antalya as a base to explore nearby attractions. Our trip included waterfalls, ancient cities, outdoor activities, and relaxed resort time. It felt like a good balance of sightseeing and rest.
There is a lot of things to do in and around Antalya. You can explore the old town of Kaleiçi, visit ancient cities like Perge and Aspendos, and enjoy beaches along the coast. Boat trips, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints are easy to reach. For those who want more action, activities like rafting and canyon trips are also popular. Antalya works well for short breaks and longer stays, with something to suit all travel styles.
Manavgat Waterfall is a calm and easy place to visit near Antalya. The waterfall is wide and steady rather than tall. There are walking paths, shaded areas, and small cafés nearby. It is a pleasant stop and a nice change from busier tourist spots.
For adrenaline junkies, I recommend white water rafting in Köprülü Canyon. It was a highlight of our trip. We had never tried white water rafting before, so we went in as complete beginners. The instructors were clear, supportive and focused on safety throughout. We felt well looked after from start to finish. The route was exciting without being scary, and we genuinely loved the experience.
For history lovers, a visit to the Roman Theatre of Aspendos is recommended. It is one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world. It is large, impressive, and still used for performances today. When visiting, it is easy to think of famous sites like the Colosseum in Rome, though Aspendos feels more open and less crowded. It is well worth a visit.
Perge is an ancient city located a short drive from Antalya. The site is spread out and easy to walk around. You can see old streets, columns, bathhouses, and a large stadium. It offers a clear look at Roman city life and is easy to explore at your own pace.
Shopping in Turkey is part of the travel experience. You will see colourful stalls, local markets and small shops everywhere. Some of the top souvenirs from Turkey include Turkish delight, spices, tea sets, ceramics, evil eye charms, and soft textiles like scarves and towels. These items are easy to pack and make thoughtful gifts.
While in Antalya, we stayed at Hotel Grand Park Lara which is an all-inclusive hotel close to Antalya Airport. It is known for its wide food options, family-friendly setup, and access to a private beach area. Staying here made our trip simple and relaxed. It suited us well as a base for both rest and day trips around the region.
Turkey Travel Guides
Here are all my Turkey articles in one place. Have a look if you want more ideas or want to plan your trip in detail.