Among the travel destinations fast-growing in popularity, the name of Antalya is one of the first to come in mind. Situated in the Mediterranean coast of Southern Turkey, this city ranked no.4 in the list of World’s Most Visited Cities in the year 2011. Having been influenced extensively by both European and Asian cultures, there was absolutely no way travel enthusiasts could stay away for long from a place which is no less than “heaven on earth”.
Having come back recently being completely mesmerized by this beautiful city, I feel it is important to bring out 5 reasons why I have started placing Antalya as one of the best places to visit in the world.
#1. Kaleici: The prime reason for me to visit Antalya was to witness the beauty of Kaleici. Known as ‘Old Antalya’, this is the best place to experience the historic charm of the city. Its narrow meandering lanes and old houses enclosed in massive city walls is a complete treat to the aesthetic senses. The best way to enter and exit Kaleici is through the Hadrian’s Gate, another popular tourist attraction.
#2. Antalya Museum: Located in the district of Konyaalti, it is one of the largest museums in Turkey. With an open air gallery and 13 exhibition halls, there is no better place to know about Pamphylian and Mediterranean history and culture. Around 5,000 works of art are on display while over 25,000 artifacts are kept in storage.
#3. Konyaalti Beach: One of the two main beaches of the city (the other one being the Lara Beach), the Konyaalti Beach is 7 kilometers of sand and pebbles delight. Along with the ever-inviting Mediterranean Sea, there are numerous top-notch cafes, bars, hotels and nightclubs ready to entertain the visitors.
#4. Termessos: Built at an altitude of over 1,000 meters in the Taurus Mountains, the ruins of this ancient city is just a 30-kilometers drive away from Antalya. Being located away from the city, it is easier to grasp the full splendor of the historical site amidst the calm and tranquility that surrounds this place.
#5. Hierapolis-Pamukkale: Hieropolis-Pamukkale are over 150 kilometers away from Antalya but it is undoubtedly worth every praise it has ever received. Together, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While Pamukkale is famous for its hot springs and travertine terraces, one can never get enough of the ancient ruins of Hierapolis.
If interested in a one-of-a-kind trip with some of the most breath-taking beaches, lush green mountains and famous ancient ruins all at the same place, there is hardly anything which can surpass Antalya.
