Antalya — travel guide
Antalya is the heart of Turkey's Mediterranean coast — the so-called "Turkish Riviera" — and one of the most popular summer destinations for travelers from Georgia. Here a turquoise sea, long beaches and modern resort infrastructure meet ancient history and the Taurus Mountains. Antalya is at once a place for a family holiday, active tourism and budget travel — where in a single week you can swim in the sea, see ancient ruins and reach mountain waterfalls. This guide will help you plan your visit from start to finish.
What to see in Antalya
The heart of Antalya is its old town — Kaleiçi: narrow cobbled streets, Ottoman wooden houses, small boutique hotels and a historic harbor full of sailing boats. This is where the city's symbol stands — the Yivli Minaret — and the Roman-era Hadrian's Gate, built in the 2nd century in honor of the emperor's visit.
For nature lovers, Antalya offers striking contrasts. In the city center, at the edge of a cliff, the Düden Waterfall plunges into the sea, while a little further off — in the middle of the forest — lies the Upper Düden. A day trip takes you to ancient cities — Perge, Aspendos (with its superbly preserved Roman theater) and Side, with the ruins of the Temple of Apollo right by the sea.
If you're traveling with children, be sure to see the Antalya Aquarium, with one of the longest tunnels in the world, and the theme parks in Lara. On the city's outskirts, riding the cable car up into the mountains — Tünektepe — offers a panorama spread out over the whole bay.
Flying from Georgia and getting around
Antalya is connected to Georgia mainly during the summer season by direct charter and scheduled flights, while for the rest of the year it's reached with one connection via Istanbul or Ankara. The flight time on a direct route is about two and a half hours. The city is served by Antalya Airport (AYT), just 13 kilometers from the center.
Ticket prices vary sharply by season — in summer demand and prices are high, while in spring and autumn they're far more favorable. Booking early and keeping your dates flexible is the best way to save. To compare specific options and prices, use the flight search.
Getting around the city is easy: a modern tram and buses run from the airport to the center. Within the city there's a nostalgic tram and a light metro, while frequent minibuses (dolmuş) reach the resorts — Lara, Konyaaltı, Belek, Side. Taxis are available, though it's better to agree on the price before getting in or use an app.
The best season to visit
Antalya has a Mediterranean climate — hot, sunny summers and mild, moderately rainy winters. The swimming season is long, running from May to the end of October, when the sea is warm and the sun plentiful.
If you want an endless beach holiday, June–September is ideal, though this is the peak and most crowded period. In the truly hot months — July and August — the temperature often exceeds 35°C, so plan excursions for the morning or evening.
Experienced travelers often choose late spring (May) and early autumn (September–early October) — the weather is pleasant, the sea is still warm, prices are more favorable and there are fewer people. This season is especially good for the ancient cities and mountain walks.
Where to stay — neighborhoods and beaches
Choosing a neighborhood in Antalya depends on your travel style. Kaleiçi and the center are ideal for those who love history, atmosphere, restaurants and walking — boutique hotels dominate here.
Konyaaltı is a long pebble beach near the center against a mountain backdrop — convenient for those who love city life. Lara, meanwhile, is famous for its golden sand and large "all-inclusive" hotels, which makes it ideal for a family holiday.
If you're looking for a calm, resort setting, consider Belek (a hub of golf and luxury hotels), Side with its ancient ruins and lively center, or Kemer with mountains and pine forests by the sea. Each of them is a 30–60 minute drive from Antalya Airport and has a distinct character of its own.
When booking, keep in mind that "all-inclusive" hotels cover all meals and drinks in the price and are often more worthwhile for families, while at central boutique hotels you choose for yourself where to dine. If city life, markets and history draw you in — stay near the center; if your main goal is a quiet beach — choose a resort zone and plan day trips into the center.
What to eat in Antalya
Turkish cuisine is one of the main pleasures of a trip to Antalya. The coastal region is famous for fresh seafood — try grilled fish, squid and shrimp at the harbor restaurants. And for meat lovers — various kinds of kebab, köfte and pide (Turkish flatbread).
Be sure to start the morning with a traditional Turkish breakfast — a generous table of cheese, olives, honey, jam and hot bread. A local delicacy is the citrus of the turquoise bay and fresh pomegranate juice, squeezed for you right on the street.
For dessert, try baklava, künefe (a hot cheese sweet) and Turkish ice cream — dondurma. To drink, there's traditional Turkish tea in small glasses and strong Turkish coffee, served at every café in Kaleiçi.
The food budget in Antalya is wide — from quick street dishes (döner, gözleme) to harbor restaurants with a sea view. Prices in the tourist center are usually higher than in areas full of locals, so if you're looking for authentic flavor and a favorable price, give preference to the local restaurants a little away from the center.
Money, currency and internet
The local currency in Antalya is the Turkish lira (TRY). Card payment is widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, though cash comes in handy at markets, on minibuses and at small stalls. It's better to exchange currency at official exchange offices (döviz) than at the airport, where the rate is usually less favorable.
At markets — especially at clothing and souvenir stalls — haggling over the price is the norm and to be expected. In hotels and brand-name shops, however, prices are fixed.
For internet, the most convenient option is an eSIM, which you buy online before arrival and have a connection the moment you land, or a physical SIM card from a local operator (Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom) at the airport. Wi-Fi is available almost everywhere in hotels and cafés, though your own mobile internet is far more comfortable for navigation while getting around.
Practical tips and safety
Antalya is generally a calm, tourist-friendly city. Take the usual precautions at crowded markets and beaches, keep an eye on your belongings and leave valuables in the hotel safe. In emergencies, Turkey's single number is 112.
In summer the sun is very strong — bring high-protection sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, especially if you'll spend a long time on mountain excursions and among ancient ruins. Drink plenty of water and give preference to the shade during the midday peak hours.
When visiting ancient sites and mosques, bring comfortable shoes and modest clothing — women will need a headscarf when entering a mosque. Finally, plan a day or two for excursions outside the city — Antalya's true charm lies precisely in this blend of sea, mountains and history.
Frequently asked questions
Do Georgian citizens need a visa for Antalya?
Citizens of Georgia can travel to Turkey visa-free. Before departure, it's recommended to check the current rules and your passport's validity, as requirements change from time to time.
When is the best time to visit Antalya?
The swimming season runs from May to October. The most comfortable period is late spring and early autumn, when the sea is warm, prices are more favorable and there are fewer people.
How many days do I need for Antalya?
5–7 days are ideal — enough time to relax on the beach, see the old town and take one or two excursions to the ancient cities and waterfalls.
Is Antalya safe for a family holiday?
Yes, Antalya is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Turkey. In Lara and Belek there are many "all-inclusive" hotels with infrastructure geared toward children.
What currency should I bring?
The local currency is the Turkish lira (TRY). Cards are widely accepted, but cash comes in handy at markets, on minibuses and at small stalls.
Is the airport far from the city center?
Antalya Airport (AYT) is only about 13 kilometers from the center. You can get there quickly and conveniently by tram, bus or taxi.