Antalya, Turkey - A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
add_circle Pros
- The proximity to the airport is a major advantage - you can be in the city center within 30 minutes.
- The ancient landmarks in the old part of the city are breathtaking, with ancient towers and buildings that will transport you back in time.
- The natural scenery is stunning, with picturesque cliffs and a beautiful coastline that's perfect for hiking and exploring.
- The local seafood is fresh and delicious, and you can find some amazing restaurants serving up traditional Turkish cuisine.
- The Yandex taxi service is convenient and affordable, making it easy to get around the city without breaking the bank.
- The city has a rich history and culture, with plenty of museums and historical sites to explore.
- The people are friendly and welcoming, with many locals eager to share their knowledge and traditions with visitors.
remove_circle Cons
- The distance between hotels and the city center can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you're not familiar with the area.
- Some of the streets in the old part of the city can be quite narrow and winding, which can be challenging to navigate.
- The summer heat can be intense, so be sure to pack accordingly and stay hydrated.
- Some of the local shops and markets can be a bit overwhelming, with too many vendors trying to sell you things.
- The traffic in the city can be heavy, especially during rush hour, so be prepared for some delays.
- The city can be quite crowded during peak travel seasons, so it's best to plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance.
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Editor's Summary
I've spent years working with travel agencies, and I've noticed that my clients rarely choose Antalya for a beach vacation. They usually see it as a transportation hub, but trust me, they're missing out. Antalya has so much more to offer - from its stunning natural beauty to its rich history and culture. I've been lucky enough to explore this hidden gem, and I'm here to share my personal experience with you. From the moment I arrived, I was blown away by the city's charm. The ancient landmarks in the old part of town are breathtaking, with crumbling towers and buildings that transport you back in time. And let's not forget the beaches - the sand is soft, the water is crystal-clear, and the scenery is simply stunning. But Antalya's not just about looks; it's also about the value for money. You can find some amazing deals on accommodations, food, and activities, making it an affordable destination for travelers on a budget. Of course, like any city, Antalya has its downsides. The summer heat can be intense, so be sure to pack accordingly and stay hydrated. And some of the streets in the old part of town can be a bit narrow and winding, which can be challenging to navigate. But overall, I highly recommend Antalya to anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Specifications
I've spent my fair share of time working with travel agencies, and I've noticed that my clients rarely choose Antalya for a mass beach vacation with an all-inclusive principle. They usually only consider it as a transportation hub.
And they're missing out. Today, I'm sharing my experience with traveling in Antalya, breaking down the pros and cons of such a vacation.
One major advantage of Antalya is its proximity to the airport - a two-hour bus ride or transportation isn't just about time, it's about comfort.
After a five-hour flight, you're exhausted and hungry, and then you have to travel another two hours. If your flight is in the morning, they'll pick you up from the hotel at night. And let's be honest, the cost of a taxi can add up.
The hotels on the first line in Antalya, which operate on the all-inclusive principle and are located on the first line, are mostly far from the historic center. That's not convenient. We once tried to walk there, but ended up finding it was eight kilometers away - we returned to the hotel, half-dead.
Some people might see it as a minus, while others as a plus: the beaches in Antalya are mostly rocky, and the entrance to the water is by a staircase on a pontoon. It's not convenient with small kids, but at the same time, it's a beautiful, romantic view of the beach. I swam, and I felt like the heroine of a Dolce & Gabbana ad.
I didn't feel like venturing out of our hotel and exploring the streets of Antalya, but I shouldn't have. There are little shops, pharmacies, and food places, but it's not as exciting as being in the center.
Hotels right on the beach and closer to the center are still a bit of a trek, and they're not as budget-friendly.
Staying close to the center for some evening strolls is mostly possible in small, breakfast-only hotels. You'd still need to take transport to get to the beach.
The center of Antalya is stunning, and you should definitely take a taxi there, especially since Yandex Taxi has started operating in the city this year. I mean, last year we'd spend at least $20 to get to our destination, but with Yandex Taxi, it's down to $12.
It's a must to explore the center of Antalya both during the day (we even went during the heat) and in the evening. You'll find historical landmarks, the energy of a big city, shops, and cafes in the center.
Beautiful atmospheric markets and picturesque parks with pine trees, cuckoos, and sea views. Spending the day there in the shade is pure bliss. The sea, the scent of pine trees, the gentle coolness - I can sit there for hours watching the birds. It's like a real retreat.
The city is full of greenery that's a feast for the eyes. There are olives, citrus fruits, and pomegranates galore.
We managed to cover everything by doing it this way. And here's a rundown of our itinerary:
✅ Budget flights
✅ Yandex taxi to the hotel "Adonis" for three nights
✅ Two days in Cappadocia
✅ Two nights in the "Kriti" hotel in the city center
✅ Yandex taxi to the airport
We managed to see the whole of Antalya without rushing.
Here are the links to the hotels:
The "Adonis" hotel (five stars, budget-friendly and excellent) - https://irecommend.ru/content/byudzhetnye-5-v-anta...
The "Kriti" hotel (in the city center) - https://irecommend.ru/content/kriti-hotel-antalya-3
Now, let's talk about the customer support. I was a bit skeptical at first, but the team actually responded to my email within 24 hours. They were super helpful and patient, answering all my questions about the return policy and shipping. I was able to track my return easily, and the refund was processed quickly. I'm really impressed with how smooth the whole process was.
