Free things to do in Antalya

The streets of Kaleiçi

Ottoman houses, narrow stone lanes, bougainvillea spilling over courtyard walls. Wandering without a plan is the best approach — getting lost is half the point. Early morning is both cooler and quieter.

Hadrian's Gate

A three-arched marble gate built in 130 AD for the Roman emperor Hadrian. It's one of the main entrances to Kaleiçi and you can walk straight through. Look down: ancient cart ruts are still visible in the stones beneath the arches.

The old harbour

The Roman-era harbour below Kaleiçi. Good for watching the boats over a glass of tea and looking out to sea between the cliffs. Late afternoon light is the best for photographs.

Karaalioğlu Park and Hıdırlık Tower

A large park on top of the cliffs, with the Mediterranean and the Taurus mountains in the same frame. At the end of the park stands the 2,000-year-old Hıdırlık Tower, the city's best-known sunset spot. Free, and busy every evening — go early to get a place.

The Konyaaltı seafront walk

A landscaped promenade running for kilometres from the foot of the cliffs. Walking and cycling paths, lawns, beach. Access to the beach is free; sunbeds cost extra.

Where the Düden waterfall meets the sea

On the cliffs along the Lara road, the waterfall drops straight into the Mediterranean. Watching from the viewing area is free. The light hits the falls in the afternoon — that's the best time for photographs.

[DOĞRULA: current entry policy for the viewing park]

The Clock Tower and Kale Kapısı

The historic entrance leading down from Cumhuriyet Square into Kaleiçi. The Clock Tower, the silhouette of the Yivli Minaret and the bustle of the square all in one place. Watching the nostalgic tram pass through is one of the city's classic shots.

Neighbourhood markets

Every district has a weekly market: fruit, spices, olives, cheese, textiles. Not touristy — this is ordinary local life. Being offered a taste is part of market culture, so don't hold back. Ask us which day is which neighbourhood.

The Atatürk Park cliff walk

A long park on top of the Konyaaltı cliffs, running parallel to the sea. Runners, tea gardens, viewing terraces. At sunset the whole of Konyaaltı lies below you.

The harbour view from Mermerli

A bird's-eye view of the old harbour from the seaward point of Kaleiçi. Reaching the viewpoint is free; the small beach directly below it is privately run and charges admission.

If you want to head out of the city, take a look at our tours.