Budget Travel to Antalya 2024
Welcome to Antalya!
If you’re looking for a lively destination, that has great beaches, lots of history and a good nightlife, but don´t want to spend a fortune, then Antalya might be the perfect choice.
Antalya is a historical city that is one of Turkey’s most famous tourist resorts. It offers tourists a lot of activities and attractions, so it´s really important that you plan your visit well.
The city offers something for everyone, regardless of your interests. It´s great for history buffs, culture vultures, foodies, and people who just want to relax on the beach and enjoy the nightlife.
Antalya is a city located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. It has beautiful golden sand beaches, a plenty of history sights, both in and around the city, and lot of good and inexpensive restaurants.
The city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Türkiye, both with Turkish and European tourists. It is easy to get there and it has an excellent transport network.
In this Antalya travel guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan a budget-friendly trip to this wonderful city. We´ll cover all the must-see attractions, affordable accommodation, and dining suggestions, and tell you how to get there for less.
Key Takeaways
- You can explore the ancient wonders of Antalya’s Old Town, Kaleici, with cobblestone streets and Ottoman-style houses. Iconic landmarks within the city include Hadrian’s Gate.
- There are also several Ancient Roman cities, such as Perge and Aspendos are located near Antalya, that make great excursions for history lovers.
- Enjoy the beauty of Antalya’s beaches, from the busy shores of Konyaaltı Beach to the calmer ambiance of Mermerli Beach
- There are several breath-taking natural wonders that are located near to Antalya, such as Duden Waterfalls, Köprülü Canyon or even take a cable car to get views from the hills high above the town.
- Antalya offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget, from cosy hostels to affordable hotels located near the pristine beaches.
- For foodies there are plenty of affordable Turkish dishes to try such as pide, lahmacun, and kebabs.
- Getting to Antalya is easy and can be inexpensive if you plan ahead.
Where is Antalya?
Antalya is located on the Mediterranean coastline of the southwestern region of Turkey. It is situated almost 700 kilometres from Istanbul and 550 kilometres from the Turkish capital city, Ankara.
The nearby seaside resort of Alanya is about 140 kilometres away, while the trendy holiday destinations of Kas and Kalkan are located approximately 190 kilometres away. If you planning to visit Cappadocia or Pamukkale when you arein Antalya, the distance is 540 and 235 kilometres respectively
Antalya airport is located just 14 kilometres from the city centre with plenty of transport options to get you to your accommodation.
Map of Antalya
Things to Do in Antalya
Kaleici: Antalya's Old Town
Kaleici is one of the must-see places in Antalya; it is also the historic heart of the city and the first place you should visit when arriving. The old town is full of charm, with its cobblestoned, narrow streets, traditional Ottoman houses, boutique shops, and cosy cafes.
There are also lots of historical landmarks to see in this part of town. You can explore ancient sites such as Hadrian’s Gate and the old marina. You can also visit the Antalya Museum to learn about the region’s incredible history.
You can also take a walk through the busy bazaars and find unique gifts and souvenirs or you can just enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.
There is a very nice atmosphere in the Old Town, and in the summer, it can get very busy, especially in the evening.
The Old Harbour
The Old Marina is also known as the Old Harbour and dates back to ancient times. It is located just below the old town and is another must-see attraction in the city. For those who are looking for a relaxing experience by the waterfront, the Old City Marina is the perfect spot.
The path that goes down to the harbour is lined with lovely souvenir shops. However, it is quite steep, and for people with mobility issues or small kids, there is another option for getting to the harbour. There is a modern free elevator that can you comfortably down to the marina. Just near the elevator there is a wonderful viewing point where you can take some great photos of the harbour from above and see the long beach to the right side with its backdrop of mountains.
Along the sides of this ancient harbour, there are a lot of nice cafes, bars, and restaurants with views of the port and Mediterranean Sea. There are also lots of beautiful boats to see, many of which offer boat trips.
You can take a walk along the water, eat a meal while taking in the view of the bay, or just enjoy a Turkish ice cream and take it easy in the calm atmosphere.
Hidrilik Tower
The is one of Antalya´s most famous historic landmarks and was built by the Romans in the second century CE.
It was later used as a watch tower light house and a fortification by the Byzantines. It is located in Karaalioglu Park, near the centre of Antalya.
The park is located by the seafront and it is a great place to go for a relaxing walk and appreciate this historical attraction free of charge.
The Clock Tower (Saat Kulesi)
Built by the Ottomans at the end of the 19th century, this beautiful 22-meter clock tower is located on Cumhuriyet Street and it´s a landmark that is definitely worth visiting.
Antalya Archaeology Museum
History enthusiasts shouldn´t miss a visit to the Antalya Archaeology Museum.
This museum is the home of a huge collection of archaeological artefacts from Antalya province and a visit to this lovely museum will give you the chance to learn about its rich history.
The items on display come from many different time periods. These include prehistoric, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Don´t miss the wonderful statue of Alexander the great.
You will be amazed at the statues, jewellery, pottery, and other historical relics on display. The entry fee is about 7 euros.
Antalya Aquarium
The aquarium has the world’s longest underwater tunnel, making it a popular tourist spot, especially for kids and animal lovers.
However, it is not cheap to get in — the basic package for an adult online costs 35 euros online, and it costs even more if you buy your tickets at the ticket office.
The aquarium is in the Muratpaşa neighbourhood, 5 km from the old town, and you can get there by taxi or public transport.
Duden Waterfalls
If you’re a nature lover and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then perhaps the Duden Waterfall is a natural attraction worth visiting. This is actually several small waterfall that are grouped together and they are located just outside of Antalya.
You will be amazed by the stunning cascading water as it falls into the Mediterranean Sea below. The group of waterfalls are surrounded by lush greenery, and they offer visitors a peaceful and picturesque setting.
You can take a walk along the pathways, and even enjoy something to eat in one of the picnic areas, or simply sit back and take in the beautiful views.
There are two viewing options: the upper waterfalls and the lower waterfalls. It is a popular spot for both Turks and foreigners alike, and most people who go there want to see both viewing spots.
With free admission, the Duden Waterfalls is a great way to spend a budget-friendly holiday experience.
It takes about 40 minutes to reach the falls by public bus from the city centre. You can take either bus KL08 or LF09. You will need an AntalyaKart travel pass to use public transport, as they don´t accept cash. The bus fare to get there is less than a euro.
It is always a good idea to use a Google Maps locater on your phone to let you know when you arrive near the falls. Buying a Turkish SIM card or E-SIM with can be very useful for helping you get around.
Cable Car Rides (Teleferik)
For panoramic views of Antalya’s landscape, you should take a ride on one of the Antalya cable cars.
There are two options for taking a cable car ride. The first one is at Tünektepe Hill, which is the nearest one and is located right behind Antalya city. The other option is in Olympos, which is located about 50 km away but is the most impressive of the two.
Tünektepe Hill is 650m above sea level. It´s a great place where you can enjoy wonderful views of the city, the coastline, and its surrounding mountains .
There is a viewing platform at the top and a nice coffee shop where you can take stunning photos and appreciate the beauty of Antalya from above. The cable car ride takes about ten minutes to get to the top of the mountain and enjoy the impressive views. The ride cost around 10 euros.
The Tünektepe cable car is situated in a neighbourhood called Sarisu. You can get there from Konyaalta beach neighbourhood by taking buses DM34, KL08, KC33, MF40, KC34 and get off when you get to Sarisu.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which will be a little more expensive but will arrive significantly faster.
The second option is the 2,365-meter-high Olympos cable car ride. There are spectacular views from above. Without renting a car, it is too difficult to get there using public transport. However, for those who can afford to spend around 50–60 euros, you can get an organised excursion for a half-day tour.
Boat Trips from Antalya
There are many boats in the port that offer short trips that sail along the shoreline of the city. Giving you the chance to have an unforgettable holiday experience.
You can also take a boat trip that leaves around 9 a.m. and returns around 5 p.m. These trips take you to secluded and beautiful beaches and include lunch and enough time to swim. These normally cost around 25–30 euros per adult.
If you decide to go on a day trip and you don´t like loud music all day long, you should choose a boat without music. Ask when you buy your tickets.
Beaches in Antalya
Konyaaltı Beach
Konyaaltı Beach is a popular public beach that is located west of the city centre. It has a long stretch of sandy shore where visitors can relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
There are shops, restaurants, and bars all along the beach, and it is easy for people to get refreshments and have access to toilets.
Konyaalti Beach is easily accessible by public transport and is a great spot for a lazy day on the beach.
You will need to pay a few euros to use the sunbed and beach umbrella, but they cost less than in most European beach resorts.
It can get busy in the summer months, so get there early to ensure you get a sunbed. Don´t forget your sunscreen. Take plenty of it with you, as it is quite expensive to buy in Turkey.
Lara Beach
Lara Beach is another popular beach in Antalya and is known for its long sandy shore and crystal-clear waters.
It is a bit more upmarket than Konyaaltı Beach. It’s lined with luxury beach resorts, offering a lot of amenities and activities for visitors.
Lara Beach is a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, and it attracts both locals as well as tourists who are looking for a great beach getaway.
Mermerli Beach
If you’re looking for a beach in the heart of Antalya’s city centre, Mermerli Beach is the perfect choice.
This small beach is located next to the Old Harbour, and it´s easy to get to. However, it can get busy, so you should get there early if you want to have a sunbed and bring your own refreshments and snacks.
The beach offers easy access to cafes, restaurants, and other amenities, making it a convenient option for those staying in the city.
Beach Clubs on a Budget
Antalya is known for its luxurious and expensive beach resorts. But there are also some beach clubs that offer access at budget-friendly prices.
Some of these beach clubs give budget travellers the chance to experience the luxury of Antalya’s beach scene. Probably two of the best and most reasonably priced beach clubs are:
- Roxy Beach Club, Konyaaltı
- Mai Tai Beach Club, Muratpaşa
Excursions from Antalya
Aspendos
Aspendos is a Greco-Roman city is located about 50km along the Mediterranean coast from Antalya.
It offers some spectacular archeologic sites, including a large amphitheatre. This ancient city makes for a nice and inexpensive day trip. Many of the buildings date back to 2nd Century. Take a hat and plenty of water with you in the summer.
From the bus stop, it takes just under an hour to get there by public bus. An entrance ticket costs about 7 euros each way, and you can look around the ruins for a few hours.
By taxi, it will take you about 35 minutes and will be considerably more expensive, but much faster.
There are two nearby Ancient Roman cities located near Antalya, Aspendos and Perge. In my opinion, Aspendos is not only the nearest but also the most impressive of the two.
Perge
The ancient city of Perge has well-preserved ruins that date back to Roman times.
You can get a sense of the past by walking through the old streets and there is plenty to see here. You can check out the amazing theatre, stadium, and Roman bath complex.
The entry fee is about 7 euros. Two to three hours is enough to see everything. There are plenty of great places to take photos.
It is not as far away from the city as Aspendos. It’s located about 22 km by road from the city and takes about 15 minutes to get there by taxi, which is probably the best option. The taxi will cost you about 15 euros each way.
Alternatively, you can catch one of the Dolmuş minibuses that go to the village of Aksu for just a few euros. The driver can drop you off on the way.
Pamukkale & Hierapolis
A day trip to the famous natural attraction of Pamukkale and the adjoining ancient Roman city of Hierapolis is a popular choice for holidaymakers staying in Antalya.
It is located more than 200 kilometres away and trips tend to leave early in the morning and get back late in the afternoon. Excursion mania is probably the most economic tour agent. It can be quite busy there during the summer months. (See the Pamukkale guide for more information).
If you are not planning to go there as part of a tour of Turkey, see the intercity bus section for more information about how to get there independently from Antalya.
Köprülü Canyo
There are many other activities in Antalya province. One destination with natural beauty and lots of adventure activities is Köprülü Canyon. It´s located about 100 kilometres northeast of Antalya and is a breath-taking natural attraction.
The rugged terrain of the canyon is perfect for hiking and exploring the stunning landscape.
Rafting on the Koprücay River through the Koprülü Canyon is one of the most famous things to do there. You can enjoy the thrill of the rapids and the clear water.
To visit this attraction, it is best to go on an organised excursion. These usually cost around 40 euros, including a kayaking trip, but you might be able to find lower prices if you shop around.
Where to Stay in Antalya?
Best Areas of the City to Stay
When you are deciding where to stay in Antalya, it’s important to consider the different atmosphere in each part of town. Some of the best areas to stay include:
- Kaleici: Antalya’s Old Town: This is famous for its charming streets, historical landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Konyaalti: A beachfront area with a lively atmosphere, perfect for those who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
- Lara: This is an upmarket area that offers affordable price
Cheap Accommodation in Antalya
Hostels in Antalya are a popular and inexpensive choice among budget travellers. They usually offer shared dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities.
Many hostels in Antalya also offer Female only dorms and private rooms that are more comfortable and intimate. Check the guide to the Best Hostels in Antalya.
Budget Hotels & Guesthouses
If you prefer more privacy and amenities, budget hotels in Antalya are a great alternative. These hotels offer cosy rooms, often with en-suite bathrooms and extra services such as free Wi-Fi.
- Blue Sea Garden: This hotel is a historic building with a peaceful courtyard garden. It offers affordable accommodation with a touch of traditional Turkish hospitality. http://www.hotelblueseagarden.com/
- White Garden Pansion: Situated in a traditional Ottoman-style house. It´s a tranquil and affordable place to stay with comfortable rooms and a picturesque garden setting. https://www.whitegardenhotel.com/
- Budget Hotels in Other Areas.
- Oscar Hotel: Located near Konyaaltı Beach, it offers budget-friendly accommodation close to the sea, with comfortable rooms.
- Benna Hotel: Situated in the Lara Beach district, has affordable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.
Sometimes it is cheaper to book rooms via websites such as Agoda, Booking.com or Expedia. Compare the prices and check which sites to find the best price.
Apartment & Room Rental
For a more independent and flexible accommodation experience, consider apartment rentals or apartment sharing in Antalya.
Many apartments are available for short-term rental, with a home-like environment and the freedom to cook your own meals. You can check out Expedia and Agoda, as well as Airbnb and compare prices and comments.
Apartment sharing, where you rent a room in a shared apartment, can also be a budget-friendly option.
It allows you to share accommodation, usually with a local Turkish host. It is a cheap way to experience the local way of life and get tips and advice from locals. The cost of living in Antalya has risen in recent years and many Turkish people now have to rent a room in order to pay the bills.
However, you should always check which part of town, the apartment is located and its amenities. For example, is there a Turkish toilet or a western style toilet.
Eating on a Budget in Antalya
What to Eat
If you´re planning to visit Antalya, you should consider all the affordable dining options that the city has to offer.
Local restaurants, known as Lokantas, cosy cafes, and street food stalls, all serve up delicious traditional Turkish dishes that won´t break the bank. See the guide to inexpensive Turkish dishes and guide to Turkish kebabs for more ideas.
There are a few dishes that are typical in Antalya and are highly recommended.
- Piyaz: This popular Turkish salad is made using white beans, onions, parsley, and a tangy, vinegar-based dressing.
- Tandir Kebab: A specialty of the region, tandir kebab is slow-cooked in a clay oven (tandir).
- Aşure: also known as Noah’s udding, is a well-known dessert in Antalya and throughout Turkey. It’s made with dried fruits, and nuts. If you have a sweet tooth see the guide for Turkish desserts.
Where to Eat in Antalya
A good meal in Antalya doesn´t have to cost a fortune. Traditional Turkish food can be found in friendly and charming small restaurants at an affordable price. Here are a just a couple of options:
- Han Hadrianus Restaurant: This cozy restaurant in Kaleici is popular for its traditional Turkish dishes at affordable prices.
- Vanilla Restaurant: This is another great option for budget-friendly traditional Turkish food in Kaleici and offers a wide range of delicious dishes.
Nightlife in Antalya
Antalya offers a vibrant nightlife scene with lots of budget-friendly bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
Muratpasa is a lively neighbourhood for nightlife with venues such as:
- The Rock Bar- Muratpasa
- The Soho Club – Muratpasa
Many bars in Antalya offer happy hour specials and discounted drinks, making it easier to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.
Shopping
When visiting Antalya, you don’t have to empty your wallet to bring home unique and authentic gifts and souvenirs.
Antalya is known for its traditional handmade items. When shopping for gifts and souvenirs there are lots of options. Items such as ceramics, textiles, Turkish delight, handmade crafts, jewellery, and even spices.
One of the most popular bazaars in Antalya is the Kaleici Bazaar, located in the Old Town.
It’s a bustling and lively market where you can easily spend hours exploring and haggling for the best prices.
Getting to Antalya
Fligths to Antalya
Antalya Airport is the main gateway to both the city and the rest of the Turkish Riviera. It has both a large number of domestic and international flights.
It is well-connected to major cities in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, making it easily accessible for travellers from around the world.
Travellers can book flights in advance, compare prices, and look for deals and promotions to find the best rates for their trip to Antalya.
You should compare different airlines and travel dates, you can find affordable options that will help reduce your overall transportation costs. Use comparison websites such as skyscanner, Kayak and of course Google Flights. For more information see the
International Flights
Various airlines provide flights to Antalya, including options for budget-friendly fares.
These include Pegasus airlnes, Sun Express Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Jet2, Condor, Corendon Airways, Eurowings, FlyNas, Flydubai, etc.
Occasionally you may find a cheap deal with Turkish Airlines.
It is always a good idea to check and compare prices and consider any extra fees for luggage that budget airlines often use to bump up the price.
You should book your flights well in advance or keep an eye out for promotions and discounts. Signing up to a low-cost airline newsletter is always a good way of finding cheap flights.
- Berlin – 3h.55m – Sun Express
- London Gatwick – 4h.40m – EasyJet
- Paris – 4h.20m – Pegasus
- Dubai – 4h.10 – Sun Express
Domestic Flights
There are fairly cheap domestic flights from both of Istanbul airports, as well as many other larger Turkish cities.
The best budget Turkish airline companies for domestic flights include. Pegasus, Anadolu Jet, Atlas global, Corendon and SunExpress. Turkish Airways tend to be more expensive.
- Istanbul (IST) 1h.35m Turkish Airways
- Istanbul (SAW) 1h.20 Pegasus Airlines
- Ankara – 1h.05m Turkish Airways
Cheap flight to Antalya from Istanbul will usually leave from Istanbul (SAW) and not the International Airport.
Getting from Antalya Airport to the City Centre
There are several affordable transportation options available to help you reach the city centre. These options include:
Public Bus /Tram
If you are on a tight budget, you can take advantage of the public bus and tram services that operates between the airport and the city centre.
It will take about 45 minutes by public transport to get to the city centre. You can take the number 600 bus which runs every thirty minutes or the 800 bus, which passes every hour and costs less than a euro.
The tram is a little more expensive, but more comfortable and runs about every 15 minutes. You will need to buy an AntalyaKart (travel pass) before you can use public transport in the city as they don´t accept cash.
HAVAŞ Airport Shuttle Service
This option is generally considered as the best low-cost option for getting into the city centre for just a few euros on a luxury bus.
You can easily get a cheap taxi from the Havaş Bus stop in the city centre to your hotel. The shuttle bus takes about 25-30 minutes. It runs every hour from 6.00 to 22.00. It cost just a few euros to the city centre.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the airport throughout the day and night and can be a convenient option if you have heavy luggage or prefer a direct transfer to your accommodation.
While taxis may be more expensive than other types of transportation, they can still be a viable option depending on your travel budget and group size.
Taxis in Turkey are a lot cheaper than in most western countries, although as the Turkish lira is so volatile, it is difficult to give an exact price.
Uber is also available in Antalya now and many tourists feel more comfortable using the app. It´s important to remember that not many taxi drivers speak English, so communication may be a challenge. Google translate can help a lot.
Intercity Buses to Antalya
Antalya is the largest city on the Turkish coast, and as such it is well-connected to other cities in Turkey through an extensive network of intercity buses. Travellers can easily access nearby towns, attractions, and destinations by bus.
Several bus companies operate services between Antalya to various locations. They offer affordable fares and comfortable travel options.
Booking bus tickets in advance, comparing prices, and checking schedules allow travellers to plan their journeys. You can buy your tickets at the ticket office, but it is usually much easier on an app such as Busbud.
- Istanbul – Antalya – Approx 13 hour
- Ankara – Antalya – Appro 9 hours
- Izmir – Ankara – Approx 7-8 hours
- Göreme (Cappadocia) Approx 9-10 hours
- Antalya to Pamukkale – There are no direct buses, so you will need to go to Denizli (approx 3 hours 30 minutes. From Denizli you can get another bus to Pamukkale. It is relatively near, around 20-25 minutes by local bus or taxi.
Getting from the Bus Station to the City Centre
Antalya Bus Station is located outside the city centre. Travellers arriving by bus can easily reach their accommodation in the city by taxi or public transportation.
Public buses, trams and Dolmuş minibus services are available at the bus station. You´ll need an AntalyaKart to use public transport but you can pay for the minibus with cash.
After a long bus journey, a taxi offers you a more direct option for getting to your accommodation. If you are staying in the centre of town, it won´t cost you more than about 7-10 euros.
Getting Around Antalya
You can easily get around within the city centre and its nearby beaches on foot. But, for more distant locations around Antalya, you need to catch a bus or use the tram line.
It´s easy to do, but you will need to buy a AntalyaKart travel pass and top it up with cash. If you are only planning to stay in the city for just a few days, it might not be worth it and taking a taxi might be a better choice.
When to Visit Antalya
If you want to go to Antalya in the summer, the weather can be extremely hot and humid. It can also be packed with tourists. To find a hotel in July and August that is good value for money is a challenge, but not impossible.
The best time to visit Antalya for budget travellers is during the off-peak seasons, which are typically spring (April to May) and fall (September to October).
During these times, the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds, resulting in lower prices for accommodations, flights, and attractions.
Travelling during the off-peak seasons allows budget travellers to enjoy Antalya’s attractions and activities without the high prices and large crowds of the peak tourist season.
Is Antalya Worth Visiting?
Antalya is a great holiday for young travellers, families with young kids and people who like to spend long summer days on the beach.
It is quite a big city, too big for some people. I personally prefer smaller beach destination, such as Fethiye or Alanya. However, of course I realise that for many people Antalya is the perfect holiday destination and that for many people would find Fethiye and Alanya too small. .
I could spend a week in Antalya, but only if it was in the early or late summer, when the beaches are less crowded and if I did a lot of excursions to nearby attractions and landmarks.
