Planning what to see next? Antalya has it all – ancient ruins, colourful markets, stunning beaches – and it’s perfect for foodie holidays too, with every street corner offering delicious Turkish food. Read on to discover some of Antalya’s best flavours and adventures!
Why Antalya should be your next holiday escape
Just 4-5 hours from the UK, this beautiful coastal city on the Turkish Riviera is the perfect escape. With direct flights from major airports like London, Manchester, and Birmingham, you’ll be basking in the sun in no time thanks to the long sunny season and warm Mediterranean climate.
You’ll find Antalya to be super tourist-friendly, with plenty of places to stay, reliable transport and helpful locals who make sure your holidays to Antalya are as fun and relaxing as possible.
With so much to offer, Antalya family holidays are a top choice. It’s safe for little ones, packed with water parks, ancient castles and family-friendly fun. Parents can enjoy a well-earned break too, with resorts offering kids’ clubs and even babysitting services. You can plan your Antalya holidays via Thomas Cook.
For anyone planning foodie holidays, Antalya serves more than sights – food is at the heart of the experience. From cosy family-run kitchens to buzzing street stalls, it’s a full-on flavour fiesta. Just be sure to bring a big appetite!
What are the top attractions and experiences in Antalya?
Not sure where to dive in? Here’s your go-to list of Antalya attractions you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
- Kaleiçi (Old Town): Explore Antalya’s historic centre featuring cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses and Roman landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate. Enjoy stunning views from Old Harbour and spend the day shopping to your heart’s content. Try gözleme from local stalls, or a traditional Turkish flatbread for a quick snack.
- Düden Waterfalls: One of the top Antalya tourist attractions, where you can stroll through the scenic greenery of the Upper Falls and witness the powerful drop of the Lower Falls into the Mediterranean Sea.
- Lara and Konyaaltı beaches: Relax on golden Lara beach and Konyaaltı beach with a breathtaking mountain backdrop; afterwards, try Balık Güveç (a traditional seafood casserole) for a taste of the Mediterranean coastal cuisine.
- Perge and Termessos: Roam through the ancient cities carved into rugged mountain landscapes, and find well-preserved architecture that reveals the region’s rich history.
What traditional Turkish food can you try in Antalya?
Antalya is packed with mouthwatering Turkish food that you simply have to try.
- Grilled meats: Try Adana and Urfa kebabs – spicy or mild, these skewers of juicy minced meat are Turkish grilling at its finest. Also add köfte (seasoned meatballs) to the list. For some of the best in town, head to 7 Mehmet, near Atatürk Park.
- Savoury bakes: Treat yourself to pide (Turkish-style pizza), börek (crispy, filled pastries) or lahmacun (thin flatbread topped with spiced meat). You’ll find these delights all over the city, especially in Kaleiçi.
- Veggie dishes: Some of the best Turkish food is completely plant-based. Tuck in to imam bayıldı, a tender stuffed aubergine dish, or a hearty bowl of lentil soup. There’s also meze – small, flavourful plates with hummus, ezme and stuffed vine leaves, which are served in most Turkish restaurants.
- Desserts: When it comes to famous Turkish food, the desserts are iconic. Dive into baklava – flaky, golden layers filled with pistachios and drenched in syrup. There’s kunefe, a crispy, cheese-filled pastry served hot and sweet, or go for Dondurma, Turkey’s famously stretchy ice cream.
- Antalya’s specials: Taste tahinli piyaz, a tangy, flavourful bean salad elevated with tahini and hard-boiled eggs. Or indulge in tahinli Kabak Tatlısı – a silky, roasted pumpkin dish drizzled with tahini and crushed walnuts.
Where to eat in Antalya – restaurants, markets and street food
The city offers everything from age-old street snacks to modern fusion dining. Here’s where to find the best food in Antalya.
- Street food: Try traditional gözleme in Kaleiçi, or grab spicy kokoreç, from stalls near Antalya Bazaar. Find sesame-crusted simit from street carts near MarkAntalya Mall. Affordable and full of flavour – this is Antalya street food at its best.
- Traditional restaurants: Antalya food culture shines in family-run lokantas and lively meyhanes. Parlak Restaurant near Republic Square will greet you with the smoky scent of grilled chicken, while just a short walk away, Mevlana Lokanstasi offers a rich choice of home-style meals, from aromatic stews to stuffed veggies in a relaxed cafeteria setting.
- Trendy & modern dining: To do food in Antalya with a modern edge, head to the Old Town, where Mermeli Restaurant offers fresh takes on Turkish dishes with sea breezes and harbour views. Nearby, Seraser Fine Dining serves stunning dishes in a candlelit courtyard filled with soft music and the scent of herbs.
What are Antalya food prices like?
Antalya food prices can vary by neighbourhood, with tourist areas usually pricier than local ones. Still, the city offers excellent value for UK and European tourists looking to enjoy quality food without breaking the bank.
Here’s an approximate idea of what you might pay:
- Street food: 1-3 EUR
- Lunch in a mid-range spot: 5-8 EUR
- Dinner in a tourist-friendly restaurant: 10-15 EUR
Additional foodie tips for your Antalya holidays
Thinking about foodie holidays? Here are some local ways to explore Antalya’s food scene
- Visit Lara street market for amazing street food or go to Antalya’s main market where you’ll find the freshest fruits, veg and spices in the region. For fresh fish, head to Konyaaltı Market – a favourite with locals.
- Antalya FoodFest takes place every year. It’s a highlight for foodie holidays, featuring cooking demos, tastings and local producers.
- Want to bring a taste of Antalya home? Pick up olive oil, Turkish delight, tea and spice blends for the ideal edible souvenirs.
What are your favourite foods to try in Antalya? Share your thoughts with other readers by leaving a comment below.
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