When we think of Antalya, we usually think of sea, sun and five-star hotels, but we forget its ancient sites. Antalya is a real treasure for history lovers with its ancient ruins hiding the layers of time. It is not only possible to tan on the Mediterranean coast, but also to walk in the footsteps of the past. If you are a curious traveler, you may be surprised by Antalya’s ancient heritage stretching from the coastline to the inland regions.

Perge Ancient City

Our first stop is Perge Ancient City. Located in Aksu district, this huge ancient city is truly breathtaking with its wide colonnaded avenues, monumental gates and Roman amphitheater. When you come here, you can’t help but sit on a stone and imagine people passing by the same spot hundreds of years ago. If you visit with a guide, you can get detailed information about the mosaic bath complexes and waterways and learn the language of stones.

Aspendos

When you leave Perge, make your way to Aspendos. Perhaps the best preserved ancient theater in Turkey is located here. When you sit down, you can clearly hear even the slightest sound on the stage. The theater’s architecture, aesthetics and the fact that it still hosts concerts bring the acoustics of thousands of years ago to today. Not only history but also engineering deserves a standing ovation here.

Side Ancient City

Then head a little further down the coast and visit the ancient city of Side. The ruins of the ancient theater, the elegant columns of the Temple of Apollo and the historic walls rising on the harbor shore… As the sun sets, these ruins turn golden and come alive again. Watching the sunset, especially from the sea-facing facade of the Temple of Apollo, can be one of the most unforgettable moments of your life.

Termessos

Termessos is a little different from the others. Built on the summit of Güllük Mountain in the northwest of Antalya, this ancient city is known as the “inaccessible city”. Because it really is hard to get to – but it’s worth it. Nature and history are intertwined here. Rising at the foot of the hill, the theater sits just below the clouds and the view is breathtaking. This is not only an archaeological site, but also a hiking route. The road to Termessos leaves a special place in the heart of anyone with a wandering spirit.

Olympos

Next stop is Olympos. A favorite of today’s backpackers, this area combines the tranquility of the Mediterranean with the ruins of the ancient city. Encountering the ruins among the walking paths in the forest offers an extraordinary experience. Especially in the summer months, walking around the ancient city of Olympos early in the morning and then going down to the beach to swim in the sea is a delicious transition between history and nature. This is one of the most valuable ancient sites of Antalya.

Phaselis

For those looking for a more mystical atmosphere, Phaselis is a hidden paradise. Once an important center of maritime trade with its three separate bays and harbor, this ancient city is also perfect for picnics and swimming. As you walk down its colonnaded avenue, history lies on your right and turquoise waters on your left. Swimming with history in Phaselis is like a short escape from modern life.

Myra Ancient City

Myra Ancient City is located in Demre and is especially famous for its Lycian rock tombs. Carved into the slope of a mountain, the tombs both fascinate and sadden visitors. Myra, whose theater is also quite impressive, is also known as the place where St. Nicholas, known as Santa Claus, lived. Therefore, it is a special destination not only for history but also for faith tourism.

Each Ancient City Tells a Different Story!
You will lose track of time while visiting all these ancient cities. Antalya is a paradise not only for those who want to have a beach vacation, but also for those who want to trace the traces of the past. Each ancient city tells a different story and each story brings you a little closer to the past.

When you come to Antalya, don’t settle for sunbathing all day at the hotel. Put on your shoes, open a map and wander among the stones. Because real discoveries begin outside the guidebooks. Contact GoremeTrip and experience your dream tour with us.

Stay tuned for more information about the ancient places of Antalya!