Scuba Diving in Turkey

University diving clubs flock to go diving in Kas, and everyone we talked to was in agreement that if you go scuba diving anywhere in Turkey, then it should be here. However, we weren’t convinced. We put on our diving gear anyway after a bit of friendly persuasion in the hopes that we were wrong, and after spending some time at NaturaBlue we learned just how great diving in Kas really is.

NaturaBlue and Düşler Academy

Let me first tell you what the NaturaBlue factor is. We went to Düşler Akademisi (Dreams Academy) the first couple of days we were in Kaş. Düşler Academy is a volunteer-run nonprofit organization founded with the goal of supporting disabled and socially disadvantaged people. Volunteers create opportunities for these people to be able to participate in public life through art and sports.

NaturaBlue is a diving school run by Mr. Yusuf, who has been a long-time supporter of Düşler Academy. NaturaBlue has supported thousands of people with physical or mental disabilities in learning how to scuba dive. We really wanted to meet this Gandalf who turned the impossible into reality, and we wanted to get in on the action. Meeting people like him is as fulfilling as encountering rare marine animals in the deep.

The busy Mr. Yusuf

When we first met Mr. Yusuf, we had so many questions that we couldn’t think of what to ask first. We thought that since high season was over that we would have Mr. Yusuf to ourselves But NaturaBlue’s ship was full of fans and, needless to say, Mr. Yusuf was quite busy. We were only able to get a couple of questions in like: What can we expect to see tomorrow?

His answer: “We’ll decide where to go based on how crowded it is and the weather. This means that what we will be able to see varies. But I can tell you that because the bottom of the sea is cold, there’s a good chance we’ll see loggerheads as all the turtles are starting to come to the surface.” Yay!

The weather that day was unpredictable. The days had been all sunshine while the nights were freezing – it gave us good insight into what menopause must be like. The temperature difference meant that we were swimming like fish during the day and were reluctant to even sit outside at night.

Spots for Scuba Diving in Kas

We got up early in the morning to snack on something, so we wouldn’t be uncomfortable during the dive. We spoke to our friends a day earlier who had gone on multiple dives in Kas, and learned of the best diving spots. In a state of confusion, we figure that we’d be happy to explore any of Kas 21 diving spots.

One of them says: “Go to Neptune. This is the most interesting place. Don’t expect much in terms of fish, but the underwater rock formations make it feel like you’re in space. But if you want to see sea life, then Oasis is really good.”

The other says: “Go to Flying Fish. There’s a sunken Italian plane left from WWII. Its propeller is there, undamaged. There’s also of unexploded ammunition scattered around. You absolutely have to see it!”

Then another one says: “Oh, that’s nothing! Here, there’s the Uluburun shipwreck from 1300 BC that you have to see. There are incredible archaeological wrecks from Ottoman and Lycian times!”

Another friend tells us about the amberjacks, tuna, barracudas and large predator fish. We didn’t want to buy into the hype too much, but we couldn’t help it.

All the spots for diving in Kas are really close to each other, and they can all be reached in 15-20 minutes. The further offshore you are, the more obvious it is where the crowds are. As luck would have it, there is no wind, and the visibility is high everywhere. “Then, let’s go to Kanyon (Canyon).” This was great, we thought, as we had seen photos the day before tha thad wowed us.

1. Diving Spot: Kanyon

As the boat approaches the diving spot, they tell us: “The canyon is formed by two 17-meter walls that meet each other in a narrow ‘V’ shape.” The peak is at 5 meters, and the base is at 22 meters. Inside the canyon, there is a narrow cave covered in red shrimp and coral. Though it’s rare, it’s possible to see Mediterranean Monk Seals that come here to hunt. Following the right wall of the canyon, we arrive at the foot of the Dimitri-Pamuk wreck. The boat hit the shore and was sunk during a storm in 1968.

We were putting on our suits when we arrived. Aside from us, there were a couple other boats. We ended up diving with six people, with Mr. Yusuf in the lead. The divers in the group have tons of stars on their strap. They all have a lot of experience and have seen all the wonders of the ocean from Egypt to the Maldives. For them, diving has become a way of life. Without fail, they dive every weekend come rain or shine.

So, what’s it like here?

With some trepidation, we ask them what they think of diving in Kas after having experienced everything from frozen lakes to the open sea. Seeing as we’re having fun anyway, what difference does the answer make? Still, we are glad to have an encouraging answer: “Don’t come here expecting to see a lot of sea creatures – you have to come here in a different frame of mind. This is an incredible underwater museum. There a number of genuine wrecks here. There’s real history beneath the water’s surface. Kas is considered one of the top 50 dive sites in the world. The reasons for this are that it contains many and varied diving possibilities in a small area, the fact that it’s close to land and the fact that the water is as colorful viewed from above the surface as it is below the surface. There’s a lot to do in Kas. Although the sea is not very fascinating in terms of underwater life, if you get lucky, you really get lucky. You might see a shark or a stingray. But this canyon is really nice, you’ll like it.”

Into the water

After we jumped off the boat, we paddle in the water to conserve oxygen and to stay afloat. Our instructor reminds us, “The current can be strong in some places of this dive. When I give you the signal, hold onto something and pull yourself forward as you move. Wait for the wave to subside before you move to save you oxygen and strength.”

I was hoping we would get to see a shark. When we let the air out of our jackets and sank beneath the water, we started looking for sharks. If not, catfish. If not catfish, then seals. If nothing else, loggerhead turtles. If only upon arriving at the wreck we could see all three, then we could say that we would never need to go diving again. Impossible? Possible.

Every dive is a lottery. Even though the chances are low, sometimes you get rewarded beyond your wildest dreams. Although it’s statistically almost impossible, there is still that tiny possibility of “what if.” Think of how impossible it is to see a white whale in the Black Sea. But a white whale called Aydin was seen roaming the Black Sea. The divers at that time might have hit the jackpot as soon as they went under the surface. Sometimes the odds are in your favor.

A glorious canyon

Although we entered the canyon expecting not a lot of marine life but stunning scenery, the canyon surprised us with a shoal of silversides. In July-August, silversides come here in droves like people retreating to their summer homes. The hordes of silversides were like a sparkling highway, and we, the divers, were like picnickers on the side. They continued without taking notice of us. Then we saw several types of fish we did not know. Our expectations were so low that it was a really nice surprise.

Words can’t describe the canyon. It’s a really beautiful formation, and we can say it’s as impressive and beautiful as the photos. It’s as meditative as any of the other diving spots in Kas. Passing through it gives you a nice feeling, as if you’re flying through the water.

Wrecks are always interesting diving spots. There’s nothing exciting about a ship that’s been deliberately sunk for the purposes of diving. It doesn’t do anything for the imagination or evoke an emotional response. Here, on the other hand, lie true artifacts. A great titan of a ship went from dominating the waters to being dominated by the sea. It’s not sad, but profound. The ship hit the bottom of the ocean and started a new life. It’s home to the fishes.

We find a place sheltered from the current, and after decompressing there, we resurface in high spirits. Our boat then goes back to Kaş for lunch. After all, we weren’t far away. This is great for those who want a single day of diving and also for those who don’t want to miss out on Kas’ restaurants. But it’s important not to get carried away by the food.

2. Diving Spot: Fener

We go back to the boat around 2 pm. After we finish our lunch in Kas, the wind begins to pick up, and it’s a bit stronger than normal. This is a bad sign as it will probably affect visibility. We drop anchor at Fener. For the past couple of days, the divers have seen tons of loggerheads, but we haven’t seen any, even from far away. We decide to leave.

The group with more people go with Mr. Yusuf to the south side of the island. They try to find the barracudas that inhabit the area. We also really wanted to see the barracudas, but we were forced to make a choice – we decide to hang out the northeastern side of the island where there are a lot of loggerheads.

The search for sea turtles

As soon as we dive into the water, we realize that the visibility has decreased a considerable amount. Even the fish have left. The bottom of the sea is empty, almost like a pool. There are no beautiful formations here like we saw in the canyon. It’s as if every living thing had left.

We swim for 20 minutes without seeing much. This time, we decide not to risk it. After returning from our dive, our instructor points to a loggerhead straight ahead. It seems that we found luck at the very last minute. After that long wait, we were ready to give up, but smiled when we saw the turtle eating.

It’s hard to smile, though, with a mask and scuba gear. The only way we were able to show our excitement was by making sounds like a dolphin. Bilge said, “eeee,” and I responded with an “oooo.” He shakes his head to show he understood. We didn’t get the grand prize we were hoping for, but we did get something.

Conclusion

Diving in Kas is really the best place to get your scuba on in Turkey. Even though it might not be like the Red Sea, people are happy after diving when they come with the right set of expectations. Diving in Kas has many advantages.

10 Reasons to Come to Kas for Diving

1. The history dating from 1300 BC to modern day
2. Good possibility of seeing a loggerhead turtle
3. Great photo ops at the canyon
4. 21 different diving spots
5. Real aircraft and ship wrecks
6. Experienced and professional diving schools
7. Options for a half-day dive for those who want to return to land during lunch
8. Best place in Turkey to see sea lions
9. Water is as colorful above as it is underneath
10. Tropical fish are rare here because of global warming, but you can see them

Here’s to your goggles never fogging up, your oxygen never running out and winning the diving lottery.

The post SCUBA DIVING IN KAS appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

We have already talked about 24 Epic Things To Do In Kas in another blog so this post is going to be about important places to see around Kas. BUT we recommend you start with the Things To Do In Kas for planning your trip to Kas.

Kas On UNESCO World Heritage List

As soon as you arrive in Kas, you’ll notice the King of Lykas tomb in the center. This is just a small part of what Kas has to offer regarding historical importance. Since it was sunny throughout most of the year, Kas was known as “Sun Country,” and it was the capital of the Lycian Union. Many historical buildings in Kas, as well as some ancient cities, have been put on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Kas has been known by different names throughout history: Antiphellus, Patara, Xanthos, Antiphellus, Isinda, Pirha, Nisa, Apollonia and Kekova are just a few of them.

Kaş means eyebrow in Turkish, and it is said that it was named thus because Meis Island looks like an eye and Kas Bay resembles the eyebrow over it.

Map of Places to See Around Kas

You can view the map by zooming in.

1. Ancient Theater at Antiphellos
2. Long Bazaar and King’s Tomb
3. Ancient City of Patara
4. Ancient City of Xanthos
5. Sunken City and Kekova
6. Ucagiz
7. Kalekoy (Simena)
8. Saklıkent Canyon
9. Kalkan

Ancient Theater at Antiphellos

The Lycians knew how to build a city. They had this beautiful view every day of their lives. But we’re sad to say that not much of Antiphellos has survived today, except for the theater. Upon entering the theater, you’ll feel isolated from everything else. The seating area is the perfect spot for watching the sun go down. For photography enthusiasts: We think that this is the most photogenic place in Kas, Turkey. Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

Long Bazaar and King’s Tomb

You should definitely amble down the streets surrounding the bazaar area, which are filled with old wooden houses, cafes, boutiques and designer shops selling handmade products. The bazaar is very lovely and different from other bazaars you’ll see in Turkey. Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

In the Long Bazaar, you’ll see shops selling handcrafted jewelry and various kinds of souvenirs, as well as the King’s Tomb. The bazaar is by far more interesting than the tomb, but since you’ll be in the neighborhood, take a peep at the single block dating back to the 4th century BC. There is an 8-line inscription under the block alongside a motif depicting a man, two women and two lions.

Ancient City of Patara

Located about 40 kilometers from Kas, Antalya, you’ll find the famous ancient city of Patara. Once the  capital of the Lycian Union, it had a parliament building where members of the union would meet. The city had three voting rights in the union and maintained its importance throughout the ages.

Open 8 am – 7 pm from April 15 – October 2 and 8 am – 5 pm from October 2 – April 14. Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

Ancient City of Xanthos

Located about 50 kilometers from Kas, Xanthos is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and has repeatedly been burned down and rebuilt throughout history. Excavations continue to this day. The artifacts that are displayed here are not even one-fourth of the city.

The story of Xanthos is inscribed on one of the artifacts here: When the locals realized that they were not going to win the battle against the invading Persians, they went to the gate of the palace and set themselves on fire.

Open every day of the week 8:30 am – 6:30 pm (April 15 – October 2) and 8:30 am – 5 pm (October 3 – April 14). Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

Sleeping Giant

The Sleeping Giant is one of Kas’ greatest legends. It’s a distinctive rock formation on top of a mountain that was given its name because it looks … well … like a sleeping giant. According to the legend, one of the Olympus gods was angry with Prometheus, a fisherman, and separated him from his love. The fisherman went to save his love, infuriating the god, who turned them both into mountains – one on Kas and one on Meis Island.

It’s said that the lovers have been looking forward to the day they will be able to see each other again. Ok, so you might not care for legends, but this is a great place to hang out and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

Make sure to check out these places nearby Kas, Turkey:

Demre

Demre, which is known for the ancient city of Myra, St.Nicholas (Santa Claus) Church and its blue crabs, is located 40 minutes away from Kas. St. Nicholas Church, which is an important place for Christian pilgrims, has Santa Claus-related activities every year on December 6th. Click here for the location. Number 5 on the map.

Sunken City and Kekova

The Sunken City is located in the center of Kalekoy, in an area of the ancient city of Dolkisthe, which was destroyed by earthquakes in the 2nd century. There is also a famous shipyard on the edge of Kekova Island. Rising out from the water, you can see the top of a church belonging to the Byzantine Empire as well as shops and houses. It’s quite a sight! Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

Ucagiz

This is a charming little town where you can find modest fish and raki (a strong Turkish spirit made of anise) and fresh burned ice cream (yes, you read that right), as well as small pensions. On top of this, you’ll be able to find boat tours leaving from the harbor here to go to Kekova or Kalekoy, or between Antalya and Kas for daytrippers.  Click here for the location. Number 7 on the map.

Kalekoy (Simena)

The best thing to do here is to canoe from Kalekoy and discover the treasures that await you at the sunken city located right across from the canyon. One note: A lot of this area, which is known by its ancient name of Simena from the Lycian period, is closed off to diving.

You’ll be able to see the tombs left over from the Lycian era that are clustered around the village’s marina and can swim here. After a day of exploration and swimming, and dine at one of Kalekoy’s lovely restaurants. There is also a castle at the top of the hill that has a fantastic view of the sea and has a small amphitheater where you can watch the sunset. Click here for the location. Number 8 on the map.

Saklikent Canyon

The canyon is said to have formed after an earthquake and is about 14 kilometers long. It has a unique beauty and acts as a border between the provinces of Mugla and Antalya. This canyon was “found” by a shepherd years ago. Since then, there have been a lot of businesses that have set up shop here.

You’ll notice that the canyon is full of adventures. BUT make sure that you bring walking shoes with you, not just flip-flops. (You can also rent shoes on site.) Seeing the beautiful waterfalls and the geographical formations of this place are the best things to do around Kas, Turkey. Even in Kas’ deadly summer heat!

If you want, you can join a tour to explore the canyon, and it’ll take about 1-2 hours of your time. If you wish to spend more time at the canyon, then you can come here by car. There are tons of car parks nearby, so parking shouldn’t be a problem. Click here for the location. Number 9 on the map.

Kalkan

Kalkan is a town about 25 kilometers from Kas, Antalya that was founded by Greek mariners 200 years ago. It also bears the traces of Lycian civilization. Kaputas Beach and Patara Beach are two of the world-famous beaches located within the borders of Kalkan. Another thing to keep in mind is that 80% of Kalkan’s population is British, meaning that a lot of the places to go in Kalkan have been shaped around the expat population there.

We should also note that Kalkan is quieter than Kas. If you’ve been to Kas, then you’ve noticed the boutique pensions; however, that’s something that doesn’t exist in Kalkan. Instead, smaller luxury hotels and villas are more common. Click here for the location. Number 10 on the map.

Before Going Swimming

Some Kas beaches are crowned, some lonely, some sandy, some peddled, some cold, some warm… Check out Best Kas Beaches to find the right beach for you.

The post PLACES TO SEE IN AND AROUND KAS, TURKEY appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

First of all, it is nothing like the rest of Antalya. Let’s put it this way: Antalya is THE most popular tourist destination in the country. If Antalya is the top model of the country– always in the spotlight, catering to mass tourism– then Kas is the free-spirited artist boyfriend. With a smaller fan base of his own, he’s a little boho, incredibly charming, appeals to young professionals and hasn’t gone mainstream (yet). Far from posh, he’s accessible and classy in an intellectual way, and perfectly content to live on the sidelines of his partner’s glory.

Kas is hard to get to but once you arrive there are amazing things to do. I mean, where else in the world can you kayak over an antique sunken city and dive with sea turtles in the same day? Kas also has some of the best nightlife and eating options in Antalya. Its cobblestoned streets are lined with bustling cafes and restaurants, live music venues and small bars.

It is also home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the country, including the awe-inspiring Kaputas. Pristine nature, dreamy sands, once-in-a-lifetime activities, yummy food, great people – in short, Kas has it all.

In this blog, we will share all the information you need for a great trip to Kas. Let’s start with:

What is the best time to go to Kas?

Summer is the high season for Kas. It will be crowded and very hot, but still nice. However, it is even better April-June and Sept-November.

How to get to Kas?

Kas is under the jurisdiction of Antalya but it is so far from the city that flying to Dalaman Airport instead of Antalya makes more sense.
Antalya Airport to Kas takes 3 hr 20 min by car.
Dalaman Airport to Kas takes 2hr 15 min by car.

Either way, getting to Kas isn’t exactly a piece of cake and, actually, that is something we are very grateful for since it keeps Kas, Antalya just the way it is.

You can take a shuttle to Kas from the airport or rent a car. I like to rent a car because it gives me more freedom in the town as well.

How long in Kas?

The minimum you should consider is 3 days, because getting to Kas takes a lot of time. You can even spend another 2 or 3 days discovering the surroundings of Kas, Antalya. If you are coming in the summer, there are a ton of things to do in and around Kas. You won’t get bored before a week’s out.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN KAS, TURKEY

You can view the map by zooming in.

Places to See

1. Kaputaş Beach
2. Kaleköy Village
3. Kaş City Center
4. Meis
5. Uzun Çarşı
6. Kaş Camping
7. Saklıkent Canyon
8. Düşler Akademisi
9. Patara Beach
10. Kaş Panorama

Where to Eat

1. Pell’s
2. HiJazz
3. Echo Bar
4. Gagarin
5. No 11 Bar

1. Swim at Kas’ Gorgeous Beaches

The beaches in Kas have this special tone of turquoise that makes them ridiculously beautiful. Nope, we didn’t use Photoshop or filters in any of these pictures; it’s just the way it is. You will have an urge to stop the car and swim in every bay you drive past.

Of course, you’ll have to see Kaputas, which is Kas’s most famous beach. However, it gets crowded during the peak season, so you might want to explore other options as well. You can always drive along the shore until you find some isolated spot, but most people prefer beaches with facilities. It is nice to have a cafe and a toilet around.

We made a list of the Best Beaches in Kas, Turkey.
On top of that, we’ve listed out the Antalya Beaches – Where To Swim In Antalya. Number 1 on the map.

2. Canoe Over the Ancient City of Simena in Kekova

If you still haven’t made up your mind about whether or not Turkey inhabits one of the most beautiful and varied geographies in the world, then you have to see this (and of course, the Gulf of Gokova, Artvin, Kars, and Cappadocia).

A big earthquake that struck the ancient city of Simena flooded it. Tombs are sticking up out of the water, and you can paddle above walls and among churches and houses built on hills that have been turned into islands. Because the historical artifacts here have often been plundered, you are not allowed to swim in the area, and boats aren’t allowed to stop here, but they can sail past without a problem. You can take a boat tour from Demre. (We will also talk about boat tours in the rest of the article).

But the best way to visit this place is by canoeing. There are daily tours that take you on a tour of the ancient city and the nearby cave as well as to Kalekoy. If you prefer something with a little more adventure, then you can take a couple of days to camp out on the beach or stay a couple of nights. There are a few adventure companies that organize tours on demand. We booked with Bougainville Travel.

3. Dive with Caretta Turtles & Fish

The ground, rocks and water in Kas are all precious. The ancient city springs forth from the water, and it’s hands-down the best diving spot in Turkey. Unfortunately, diving in the country typically ends in frustration. You probably won’t see colorful fish – if any at all.

But thanks to Kas’ untouched ecosystem, you are very likely to see both fish and sea turtles. And because the waters are so warm, there are also semi-tropical fish. The waters here also offer a sunken ship and tank and an impressive underwater valley. There are a thousand companies you can dive with, but we’ve already compiled a list in our article on Scuba Diving in Kas, Turkey.

4. Kalekoy Is One Of Turkey’s Most Special Villages

Kalekoy is a small and quiet village that can only be reached by water. This is actually a peninsula, but there is no connection outside of a footpath, so you’ll have to take a boat in order to reach it. This means all the women in the village are boat captains.

The locals settled in the historic remains of Lycia and Byzantium, and they have lived there for centuries. So the village has a very ancient and unique feel to it. The Koc family (who owns one of the biggest holding companies in Turkey) also has a house here.

There are a couple of restaurants and hotels but, aside from that, there’s not much else. It’s still a must-see place on our list of things to do in Kas, Turkey. The castle, which the city is named after, boasts a spectacular view of the area. The best thing to do here is to eat ice cream and watch the sunset. If you’re planning to go on one of the boat or canoe tours we mentioned above, then Kalekoy will already be on the route. Number 2 on the map.

5. Join the October 29 Republic Day Celebrations

Every October 29th, we celebrate the foundation of the Turkish Republic and the best celebrations happen in Kas, Turkey. How the people of Kas came to have the best celebration culture goes a long way back.

Even today, it is difficult to reach Kas and it was even more so in the old days. Because Kas wasn’t well connected, the people of Kas celebrated the declaration of the republic after hearing about it two days later. That day, they gathered in the center of the square and burned a great fire. The fire was large enough to be seen from the islands. A group of 150-200 people gathered around, shared a meal and celebrated by singing traditional Turkish songs for hours.

This tradition has been going on with the same enthusiasm for the past 94 years. For this reason, we think it’s interesting to be in Kas to see the celebration as it has been nearly a century before. Number 3 on the map.

6. Our Favorite Breakfast Place in Istanbul Moved to Kas – Don’t Miss Out!

For those of you who think that all Turkish breakfast is the same, we recommend that you try Pell’s. You won’t be disappointed. The little touches make a big difference. Pell’s used to be located in Cihangir, a neighborhood in Istanbul, and we used to be regulars. The owner of the place, Pelin, then moved to Kas and left us nowhere to go on Sundays.

The new place in Kas is adorable and is located in the garden of a historic house under three lemon trees. This provides for natural relief from the summer heat – and you can cool down even more with a Bacardi cocktail they make right in front of you using one of the lemons from the trees. We also recommend dinner – the roasted red pepper and salted greens salad and some goat cheese puree.

Sometimes the venue might turn into an open-air jazz concert, or a neighborhood pub with Balkan music blaring, or a venue for tastings that can turn into a gourmet event. The Demirhindili, Sari Hindi, Gul, and Adacayli Peri Dudagi cocktails are made by the owner herself with great care. It is open from 9 am until 2 in the morning. Highly recommended! Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Topcu Sokak, No: 20, 07580. Tel: (0242) 836 43 82. Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

7. Opt for an Adrenaline Rush and Try Canyoning

Canyoning is one of the most amusing and adrenaline-filled nature activities – not just in Kas, Turkey too. Canyoning involves some canyon trekking, a bit of climbing, and jumping into rivers or ravines (as you can see in the photo). Kas is one of the few ideal places in the world where you can do this and, more importantly, there are regular canyoning tours.

The most experienced outdoor companies for this are Bougainville and Dragoman. They’ll supply you with all the technical equipment you need, but you’ll need to bring your own outdoor boots. It’s not necessary, but we recommend that you also bring your own sports gloves.

8. A Kas Classic: Jazz Nights

Kas is the type of place where you can swim in the sea all day, get a little buzz from sipping on a bit of raki (an anise seed liquor) and relax while listening to some jazz. For that, you can check out these spots:

Hi Jazz

Jazz music has a different kind of story in Kas, Turkey. This place is home to this story, and it’s one of the few places that only does live performances. Hi Jazz exhibits rock jazz blues as well as other types of alternative music and has hosted many big names in Turkey such as Ediz Hafizoglu, Feti Caglayan, Suleyman Bagcioglu, Tumer Dalgakiran, Ercan Temel, Fatma Baba, Sinem Yilmaz. It’s a great option to listen to quality live music while sipping on beer. Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Zumrut Sk. Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

Echo Bar

Echo is housed in an excellent historic stone building and is one of the more famous performance bars in Kas. The bar, which has a large space, also hosts famous Turkish names and groups throughout the summer. A few of the names include Yeni Turku, Birsen Tezer, Bulent Ortacgil, Jehan Babur, Sibel Köse, Can Gox, Yuzyuzeyken Konusuruz, Sarp Maden and Adamlar. There is a garden where you can drink and talk before the concerts begin. Phone: 0539 633 32 46. Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

9. Night Life (You Can Catch Up with Your Sleep on the Beach the Next Day)

Gagarin

This is a calm, laid-back rock bar. It’s also the hippest place in Kas. Here, they host a lot of famous DJ names. Aylin Aslim – who is the owner of the place and came to Kas only two years ago – plays and allows DJ friends who visit to play as well. You are likely to encounter someone new every time you go. If you start the night with a bacon hamburger while enjoying the serene scene of the Kas marina, then you won’t feel hungover the next day – no matter how crazy the night got. That’s what everyone says. The cocktail menu is also quite nice. We recommend trying Tourist Omer. Address: İskele Geçidi Sokak No: 2 Andifli Mahallesi, 07580. Tel: 0531 838 78 64. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

No:11

In Kas, Turkey, the bars are very close to each other, almost in a line formation. No. 11 is a very beautiful place right in the middle. They have a lot of cocktails, and we recommend Gelincik Vodka and Damla Sakizli Vodka Shot. Another favorite is the Pear Martini. The staff working there have obviously been in the tourism sector for years and know how to make you comfortable. They also play nostalgic Turkish pop music a couple of times a week. This is one of the places that’s so popular people are spilling out into the streets. Address: Terzi Sk.No: 1 Andifli Mahallesi. Tel: +90 536 482 43 32. Click here for the location. Number 5 on the map.

10. Visit the Island of Meis and Eat Some Octopus

“We don’t see Meis as a Greek island… it’s a part of us. It’s our neighborhood. The land has borders but not our hearts,” said Uncle Mehmet, one of the inhabitants of Kas. People who live in Meis often come to Kas to visit people and to shop. Locals from Kas also frequently go to Meis thanks to the regular transportation offered by ferry boats. The scene in Meis is idyllic with rows of colorful wooden houses and octopi drying in the sun.

Meis is a small Greek island that’s located directly opposite of Kas. There are about 400 people who live there, and there are churches, museums and “the blue cave.” As the second-biggest cave in Europe, the Blue Grotto is at the back of the island. In peak season, a ferry goes out there daily, but it only runs once a week during the winter.

The companies that arrange for these tours are located in the Kas square. One is called Kahramanlar Turizm and the other is Meis Express. If you don’t have a Schengen Visa (and need one), then you’ll need to hand over your documents a couple of days in advance in order to go to Meis. Number 4 on the map.

11. Hang Around the Uzun Bazaar

If you’re unsure what you should buy while in Kas, Turkey, we’ll tell you: handmade silver jewelry, Lycian carpets, kilims, glass artwork, wooden carved figures and local designer’s clothes.

You might be happy to know that the vendors in Kas bazaar have a different attitude than the vendors in other tourist areas. Nobody working in the market is jumping on you to try and sell you something, but they are always there to help if you need anything. Number 5 on the map.

12. Enjoy the Sea at Kas Camping

We’ll tell it to you straight – Kas Camping is a bit expensive for camping, but it’s one of our favorite camping grounds in Kas, Turkey even, as the concept is very well thought out. It’s also right on the water and calm and in a convenient location. Be sure to contact them ahead of time to learn about prices, as they change seasonally.

You can come with your own tent or caravan, or stay in the bungalows. There are communal bathrooms, and there is a cafe which healthy options like granola and Turkish summer classics such as watermelon and white cheese. Sometimes they host yoga camps. Even if you’re not staying here, you can still come to hang out. Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

Those of you who like camping can check out our post on the Best Camp Sites in Turkey.

13. See Saklikent Canyon

Saklikent Canyon is a good alternative to escape from the heat of Kas during the summer with its cool waters. The canyon runs 18 kilometers and reaches a height of 200 meters and has narrow passages. The Esen River flows through the canyon and gives life to a huge pine forest, which is now under protection.

There are several businesses in the canyon. Some older women sell gözleme (Turkish-style pancake) in front of their houses and men sell walking shoes. For those of you who have traveled around Turkey, this is a familiar site. The canyon offers a lot of adventure, but if you do set out for it, make sure to bring water and wear (or buy) proper shoes. It’s definitely not a place where you can get by wearing flip-flops.

There are also companies in Kas that organize tours to the canyon, but you can also go on your own with a car and park. The tours going there usually spend 1-2 hours. We recommend Bougainville or Dragoman. Click here for location. Number 7 on the map.

14. Walk the Lycian Way, One of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Walks

Kill three birds with one stone on the Lycian Way: Trekking, mysterious ruins and fantastic views abound on this historically significant and famous long-distance trail in southern Turkey. The massive 535-km route starts in Fethiye and crosses through to Antalya, hugging the coast of what was known as Ancient Lycia (hence, the name). The trail is often included on many a top-10 hiking list, and we recommend hiking a small portion of it.

The more time you set aside for the Lycian way, the better. Nowadays, many say to plan for four days for some of the trek (hiking the full trail takes on average 29 days), but you can even plan for one day, and you won’t regret it! We suggest you start either in Demre or Hoyran. Even if you’re unable to hike the path, we recommend that you drive up to see the landscape, views and ruins it has to offer.

If you start in Demre…

Demre, which is home to the ancient city of Myra, the St. Nicholas Church and tasty blue crabs, is 40 minutes away from Kas, Antalya. St. Nicholas Church is an important pilgrimage stop for many Orthodox Christians, and the church hosts activities celebrating St Nick every year on December 6th. Even the logo for the Demre municipality is a Santa Claus.

And now about those blue crabs – you’ll be happy to hear that you can easily find them served in Demre. Click here for Demre’s location. Number 8 on the map.

If you want to spend a few days on the trail and would rather not camp, the Hoyran Wedre Hotel is a pleasant pit stop for walkers and harcore hikers alike, even just for a lunch.

What’s so great about Lycia?

The Ancient Lycians had no kings, instead, it was a matriarchal society. Many small settlements would come together to decide who would rule over them. In other words, they built the first democracy in the world.

During times of war, young people and doctors who were deemed valuable were sent into the mountains so they could start a new settlement once the fighting was over. We would have known much more about the civilization if a violent earthquake hadn’t inundated the area.

15. Try out Coasteering, You Won’t Find Another Place to do it!

Coasteering is one of the most entertaining sports that brings the sea and rocks together. Essentially, you explore a rocky coastline by swimming, climbing and jumping – no boats or rafts. Of course, the difficulty level varies according to which route you take, but we can say that tours in Kas, Turkey are suitable for beginners. If you are afraid of water or heights, then this might not be for you. Someone who has difficulty jumping into the water from a height of one meter might hold back the entire group.

16. Volunteer at the Dreams Academy (Dusler Akademisi)

Düşler Akademisi /Dreams Academy helps socially disadvantaged people to participate in society. At their Kas Campus, they’ve created opportunities people with disabilities, Roma and any disadvantaged individuals – but they’ve also displayed an understanding for the environment that is rare in Turkey by producing their own electricity and engaging in ecological agriculture. And they’ve done all this with the support of volunteers.

It’s also well known that they take good care of their volunteers. You can get more information about volunteering from their website. Click here for the location. Number 9 on the map.

17. Explore Ancient Cities

Take a break from the sea, sand and sun to explore the historical riches of this unique geography. Although the ancient cities here are not as well known as other places such as Ephesus, Aspendos and Hierapolis, there are some worth seeing on the border of Kas-Kalkan. We recommend checking out the Antiphellos Antique Theater, Xanthos Antique City and Patara Antique City. To find out more information, head over to our Places To See In Kas post.

18. Take a Boat Tour

One of the best ways to explore Kas and its surroundings is by boat, and we recommend that you spend at least one day on a boat tour. Boats depart from the old harbor.

Kekova tours usually include a full-day boat trip with meals. Kekova is a place visited and preferred by thousands of visitors to Kas, Turkey.

What to expect on the boat tour:

Each tour follows roughly the same outline. The boat departs early in the morning and first goes to Inonu Bay, where you’ll be able to see a canyon and cave. Then, you’ll go to Aquarium Bay. Here, you’ll be able to snorkel and see the gradually increasing sea life in the area. You’ll eat lunch, then head to Tersane Bay where many historical artifacts ended up in the sea after large earthquakes hit the area.

You can swim around. After that, you’ll go to Kalekoy where you’ll spend an hour or two and eat some fabulous homemade ice cream. There are only three types of ice cream (but it changes from time to time) – peach, banana, and hazelnut – which are all absolutely delicious. All the ingredients that go into the ice cream are made locally. Then, the boat will take you to Ucagiz, which is a charming fisherman’s bay. The journey ends around 6 p.m.

19. Try Your Hand at Paragliding

As soon as you’re in Kas, you’ll notice the number of colorful parachutes in the sky. Tour agencies put you on a minibus 9 kilometers up Kirdavli Peak or Asas Mountain at an altitude of 600 meters. After training, they give you suits for flying, and you’ll be paired with a pilot before taking off. You can pay extra for videos and photos.

20. Swim at the Caretta Turtle Beach in Patara

You know those beaches you see in the movies that have long and winding shores? This is it IRL. The silky sand stretches for 18 kilometers, making Patara Beach one of the most important breeding grounds for the caretta caretta sea turtles in Turkey.

For that reason, there are a couple of things you have to be careful of here. Don’t set up an umbrella in the sand, as you could be harming a baby sea turtle that has yet to hatch. Don’t stay overnight as the turtles hatch and run into the sea at night. If you do, then don’t speak in a loud voice or shine a light as not to scare them. Thanks in advance. Click here for the location. Number 10 on the map.

21. Watch an Unforgettable Sunset

It just happened to be rainy the day we took this photo – so just imagine how much more epic the sunset is on a clear day. It is popular to enjoy a beer while watching the beautiful sunset from this location, but you will need a car. Number 11 on the map.

22. Taste Burnt and Pan-Fried Ice Cream

One of the best (or, for some, worst) things you can try in this region is burnt or pan-fried ice cream – a local specialty of Antalya. The ice cream is made from goat’s milk that is purposely burned during cooking. The burnt ice cream itself has a bit of a smoky flavor – kind of like it was caramelized – and some people really like it. Honestly, I am not a fan but you should still try it. You can get it from Nur Pastanesi, located on Bankalar Caddesi in the square. They have been doing it for years.

Another funky dairy treat is pan-fried ice cream, also very popular in the Far East. It’s only recently become trendy in Kas. The ice cream starts out as cream, and you can add whatever flavors you want. They are mixed then smoothed out onto a frozen pan and scraped into rolls. It’s fun to watch it being made. You can find pan-fried ice cream places in the square as well.

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN KAS, ANTALYA

We’ve included a couple of things in this list of where to get some grub, but we have many more recommendations for Kas, Antlaya. You can find all our suggestions in our Kas Restaurants & Specialties post.

WHERE TO STAY IN KAS

In the Kucuk Cakil Area

Lantana Aparts

This is parallel to the shore road (Kucuk Cakil Sahil). The rooms and apartments were renovated recently in 2017. Half of them face the sea, and a lot of them look toward Meis. These are the biggest apartments you’ll be able to find so close to the square.

The 50-square meter area is comfortable for groups and families, particularly if you are on a budget. Even though the location is central, it’s still far away from the noise, and we have to say that this place stands out as their concierge, Onur, is there to make your trip better. Even though the apartments have their own kitchen, they will spoil you a bit by providing you with your first meal free of charge. This price includes breakfast.

Aphrodite Pension

Aphrodite Pension is an option near the center and is walking distance to Kucuk Cakil Beach, which overlooks Kas, Antalya.

Diva Residence (allsuite) Hotel

Diva Residence Hotel is a boutique hotel consisting of 11 suites, with one or two bedrooms, overlooking Kas and Meis Island. It has a pool, and it’s far away from the sea. Its own private beach is 12 minutes away.

In the Center

Kuytu Pension

This is a charming hostel that offers a homey comfort right in the center of Kas. Located behind Uzun Bazaar, it has one of the best locations as its close to the bars, taverns, the sea, shopping and entertainment. Kuytu has modest rooms that vary in size and decor and offers nice little touches. The plants that you see lining the hallway of the pension are all from Kas.

Directly opposite the pension is a cafe that plays lovely jazz tunes. You’ll be able to eat breakfast while looking at a view of the sea. Unlike every other place, breakfast time is not fixed here – if Emine Abla hasn’t left, then you can get up whenever you want and have her prepare you something. They make things like Turkish pastries and cakes that will ensure you have a good start to your day.

Near the Ancient Theater

Kas Camping

This is located on the road from the ancient theater to the peninsula. Waking up in the cool blue waters, Kas Camping has a giant 37-year-old sycamore tree. At the campground, you can stay either in bungalows or in tents, and it’s close to the city.

Paydos Pension

Paydos Pension is located only 50 meters away from the city center and the harbor and boasts a view of the rock tombs, the famous bazaar in Kas, as well as its beaches. The owners Baris and Merve won’t treat you as customers but as friends. They also have a lovely terrace. You can come here for breakfast or for an evening beer, and they’ll welcome you with open arms.

Kas Hotel

This is the closest accommodation offered by the sea. But it’s also the most expensive on our list.

Nefeshane

This place offers two-, three, and four-person rooms in the village of Cukurbag. It is great for those who want to be out in nature and to clear their heads. Some minibusses leave at regular intervals to come here, and you’ll arrive in only 15 minutes. Just think, it’ll only take you 15 minutes to reach heaven!

On the Cukurbag Peninsula

Lukka Exclusive Hotel

This is a boutique hotel on the Cukurbag Peninsula, with balconies and great views.

In Demre

Simena Pension

Simena Pansiyon is a traditional village house in Kalekoy. Ideal for small groups or families.

In Kalkan

Hotel Villa Mahal

This boutique hotel was voted “The Most Romantic Hotel in Europe” by Conde’ Nast Johansens in 2007. Even if you don’t decide to stay at the hotel, you can come here to enjoy dinner at their restaurant.

WHERE IS KAS IN TURKEY?

Kas is a town in the Mediterranean region west of Antalya. Fethiye and Kemer are located in the vicinity.

Kas is located:

• 126 kilometers from Fethiye, or about 2 hours by car,
• 147 kilometers from Kemer, or about 2 hours and 28 minutes by car,
• 192 kilometers from the center of Antalya, or about 3 hours and 20 minutes by car,
• 323 kilometers from Alanya, or about 5 hours by car,
• 647 kilometers from Ankara, or about 8 hours 15 minutes by car,
• 808 kilometers from Istanbul (Besiktas), or about 9 hours and 55 minutes by car.

TRANSPORTATION TO KAS

By bus

If you enjoy traveling by bus and are in no hurry, then you can catch buses leaving at frequent intervals. Even in the offseason, you’ll be able to find bus tickets every day from bus stations in larger cities. The journey takes about 13 hours from Istanbul, 8 hours from Ankara, and 6 hours from Izmir.

By plane

There are two alternatives for those who want to fly – you can either go to Dalaman or Antalya Airport. After that, you’ll have to use minibusses or shuttles to reach Kas. You can share your shuttle with other people on Facebook (there’s a page for it). The journey takes 2.5 hours from Dalaman and 3.5 hours from Antalya.

By Car

You can go to Kas via Fethiye or from Antalya, Kemer, Kumluca, Finike, and Demre. For those of you going from Ankara, then after passing the province of Bucak, you’ll go through Korkuteli and head onto the coastal road going to Elmali-Gombe.

The post 24 EPIC THINGS TO DO IN KAS (AN ABSOLUTE MUST IN TURKEY) appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Nestled amongst the natural backdrop of Antalya province’s Mediterranean coast, it is a bohemian sanctuary full of tree house bungalows and Lycian ruins. It is also the nesting site of Caretta Caretta sea turtles, and if you are traveling in Turkey, you should know that this is your cue for an epic beach.

Due to its natural and historic importance, the area is under protection, making it an earthly bit of paradise. Protection means, no resorts, no luxury hotels, but  cute little shacks and tree houses instead. This has made Olympos a favorite mostly among backpackers. Instead of the leathery, tanned wealthy expats in Antalya’s resort towns, here are the 20-something-year-old Turks with weird patterns left from too much carefree time in the sun wearing hemp jewelry and flip-flops. But that’s half the charm of Olympos, Turkey!

As 2 local travel experts, we have prepared a complete Olympos travel guide for you. Here you will find, what to do, where to stay and hang out and more, things you shouldn’ miss and more.

How Long in Olympos

There are a lot of things to do in Olympos from checking out the fire coming from the mountains or adventure tours. You can easily keep yourself busy for a few days. We recommend 2 to 4 days in Olympos.

Olympos’ Tree Houses

Olympos, Turkey, was put on the map back in the 2000s thanks to Kadir’in Yeri (Kadir’s Tree Houses). The village became the apple of every backpacker’s eye, both locally and internationally.

People from all corners of the world would come here to get a good night’s sleep after swimming in some of the world’s most beautiful (but frigid) waters alongside loggerhead sea turtles. At that time, you’d hear more English than Turkish while sitting around the campfire at night. Nowadays, foreigners keep coming but it is mostly the young Turks that dominate the crowd.

THINGS TO DO IN OLYMPOS

You can view the map by zooming in.

Places to See

1. Olympos Beach
2. Adrasan Beach
3. Olympos Ancient City
4. Chimera
5. Atölye Duende
6. Kadir’s Tree Houses
7. Olympos Rockclimbing
8. Olympos Diving Center
9. Olympos Quad Safari
10. Olympos Cable Car
11. Phaselis Antik Kenti
12. Ulupınar
13. Kekova
14. Suluada

Where to Eat

1. Hangar Bar
2. Bull Bar
3. Orange Bar
4. Cafe Cactus

A little precursory Olympos, Turkey, travel planning tip: spend one day diving, one day rock climbing, one day at the beach and one day on an ATV safari. This will give you built in sleeping time, even as late as 1:00 or 2:00 pm in case you get one of those pesky hangovers. 😉

While we listed all the classic spots here, we also put a ♡ beside our top picks in Olympos.

1. Share the Sea with Loggerhead (Caretta Caretta) Sea Turtles ♡

Olympos Beach was clearly invented to cleanse the soul with its crystal clear blue water – which can be icy cold at times – and its mountain backdrop. In this tranquil setting, you can hear the sound of crickets. Another regular on the beach is the loggerhead, or caretta caretta, sea turtle.

There are a few things that you need to be sensitive about to protect these creatures, which are in danger of going extinct:

• Let the Loggerheads (“Caretta Caretta“) hang out here. Loggerheads bury their eggs for 2 months and when they have completed their development, they hatch at night. Sunbeds and umbrellas aren’t allowed on the beach to protect the eggs buried under the rocks. It’s really important that you show the same respect to their living space. Please do not allow your child to dig into the pebbles, make sure your dog is on a leash, and you don’t dig into the ground with an umbrella or a shovel.
• If you spend time on the beach at night, make sure you don’t speak or listen to music too loudly or shine too much light, otherwise you’ll scare the baby turtles. All these things can mess with their sense of direction, and they might never find their way to the sea. 🙁
• It’s prohibited to enter the beach by car, which is which is why parking lots are located at the entrance of the beach.
• There are no facilities, this includes changing rooms and showers. The beach only belongs to nature and has rocks and small pebbles instead of sand, meaning that the water is always clear. When we went, we brought a folding chair and shoes you can wear in the sea. If you are thinking of going by car, then you too can go prepared.
• Entrance Fees for Olympos Beach: Since your accommodation won’t be right on the beach, you’ll probably have to walk 5-10 minutes depending on where you’re staying. When you go to beach, you’ll have to buy tickets to walk through the ancient city. If you have a car, you will find parking on the right side after entering the museum.Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

2. Don’t be Lazy, Go to Adrasan ♡

Adrasan Beach is about a 20-minute car ride from Olympos, Turkey. There are plenty of hotels and cafes. Unlike Olympos Beach, Adrasan has a lot of sand. You’ll also be able to find different types of activities like water sports at the beach. Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

3. Rent a Canoe from Olympos Beach ♡

I think we can agree that canoeing is both relaxing and fun (and if not, who are you!?). Make sure to be careful of the sun’s rays here and put on plenty of sunscreen, unless you like the lobster look. Expect a line, but it’ll move fast.

If you row a little past the edge of the cliffs, you’ll come across a small cave-like pit. This is an excellent place to take photos, and you can peep the pink rocks in the water.

4. Explore the Ancient City of Olympos

The ancient city of Olympos was much more expansive than the remains you see when you go to the beach – it was a massive city! Before it was just Olympos, Turkey, it was one of the most important cities of the ancient Lycian Civilization and a very important place in maritime trade.

In fact, Olympos Harbor was even known as pirate center: The leader of the Cilician pirates, Zeniketes, used the city as a base. This was around 43 AD, which marked the beginning of the Roman Empire in a definite sense. Nevertheless, the place was still prone to pirate attacks even though it became part of the Roman Empire in 78 BC. This lasted until the Ottomans dominated the sea.

The river here divided the city in two. A canal was built off this river and used as a port, and a bridge was also built.

Still being uncovered

Those who lived in this city at the time made temples, hammams, churches, theaters, fortifications and wide streets. Based on this, we could easily say that there was a lot of city infrastructure already in place. However, the remains unearthed by archaeologists don’t reflect that. Because of this, work by the Olympos Ancient City Excavation Team is still ongoing. If you ask us, you’ll be able to easily see the old city in an hour before heading to the beach.

Entrance Fee and Hours of Operation for Olympos Ancient City

Hours of operation are 8:00 am to 7:00 pm between April 15 and October 2 and 8:00 am to 5:00 pm from October 3 to April 14.  The card gives you access to both the museum and the beach. Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

5. See the Eternal Flames of Chimera at Yanartaş ♡

We’ve come to the best part! You might be asking why you should go see a fire while in Olympos, Turkey, when we humans have already harnessed the power of flame. But not like this.

Yanartaş is a flame that burns on its own and never dies. Of course, there’s a story behind this. The most famous legend is as follows: The Lycian king, Bellerophontes, was tasked with killing a monster that breathes fire, called the Chimera. Bellerophontes attacked and killed the monster while on his winged horse, Pegasus. Chimera is buried, and but the flames from its mouth still shoot from the ground. (We know the real, just as cool culprit behind the flames, though. It’s a natural gas leak.)

The best time to visit Yanartaş is close to sunset, as you’ll be able to enjoy the surrounding scenery. We also recommend going at night as the effect it creates is incredible. With no city lights around, you’ll see millions of stars staring back at you when you look at the night sky. On our trip here, we made sure to bring wine and marshmallows with us. We roasted the marshmallows on the open fire and ate them with wine under the stars. While this all makes for a very nice experience, you should be on the lookout for scorpions.

Getting to Yanartaş

Another important aspect we should mention is transportation. Don’t believe anyone and get fooled into walking to Yanartaş. We already made that mistake! Under normal conditions, Çıralı is 4 kilometers away or a half an hour walk, and Olympos is an hour and a half walk. But these aren’t normal conditions as the roads are very desolate and dark (if going at night).

Instead, you should be able to find a service bus or car in front of your accommodation that leaves at 9 pm. You can always get in touch with Dursun Abi, who works hard to make sure that everyone has a fantastic experience at Yanartaş (05322374000).

I said “climb,” because you will have to walk uphill about half an hour to reach Yanartaş. This part is a bit of a struggle, and seeing the burning rocks is your reward. Doing this climb and ultimately being able to experience this atmosphere does your mind and soul some good. Also, make to bring along the right pair of shoes for the climb as well as a flashlight. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

6. Boat Tour

Being able to be out at sea here is without a doubt a dream, but it quickly becomes a  when daytrippers come into the picture. Our recommendation would be for you to rent your own boat, but if you lack the funds, you shouldn’t have to go without experiencing the sparkling waters here.

Boat tours are usually held on Fridays and Saturdays. There are several tour operators, so the prices and times might differ. We suggest that you check with reception wherever you’re staying as some hostels or hotels might operate their own boats, which might be helpful when it comes to prices.

Boat trips starting from Olympos, Turkey, visit fewer coves than other tours. Boat tours departing from Adrasan take off from Adrasan Yacht Harbor and cover several coves such as Suluada, Akseki Bay, Sazak Bay and Korsan Bay.

We did not go, but the most popular tours are the ones offered by Yusuf Captain’s Suluada boat. If you do not have a car and you’re staying in Olympos, then they’ll pick you up and take you to the boat. Contact: Suluada Boat Tours Adrasan Yacht Marina, Adrasan, Tel: 0 536 864 23 62.

7. Moonlight Boat Tour in Olympos

If you have not yet died and gone to heaven from the romanticism offered by Olympos, Turkey, this boat tour might be the final blow. If you want to take part, then you should arrange it a day in advance. Tours are available for groups or just for two people depending on what you’d like to do. Captain Yusuf also provides this service.

We didn’t go ourselves, but we would love it if those of you did could share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

8. Check out the Handmade Goods Sold at Stalls and Shops

Olympos, Turkey, is renowned for its handmade home decor products and its various stalls and small shops. You should take a look at the original pieces you’ll be able to find here.

Duende Studio

This place has a sweet and interesting owner who makes all the items sold here by hand, including bracelets, magnets, cuffs, small household items, and everything else you can think of. Everything is made out of glass, wood and other interesting things. I even saw necklaces made from real cinnamon and a bracelet made from an olive branch!

I loved that each piece had a different concept and its own unique beauty. This is the perfect place to buy a gift. Located between Deep Green Bungalows and Cafe Cactus. Click here for location. Number 5 on the map.

9. Hang out at Kadir’s Tree Houses (Symbol of Olympos) ♡

We did not meet Mr. Kadir ourselves, but he’s famous for making Olympos what it is today. Olympos, Turkey, became famous because of his magnificent complex of tree houses, which was how it became known as a bohemian hang-out spot and distinguished it from thousands of other beautiful places in Antalya. Even if you don’t plan on staying in the tree houses here, you should stop by, especially at night. Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

10. Trekking in Olympos

Trekking is one of the best sports here, but we do not recommend doing it during the summer heat. If you want to go trekking, then you can do the Adrasan-Olympos stretch in a day as it makes up 13 kilometers of the Lycian Way. The stretch starts in Adrasan and goes through Adrasan Plain ending in Olympos, Turkey. Depending on where you are staying, you can join trekking groups and choose different tracks. The routes of each trekking group vary. You should get info from where you’re staying.

11. Rock Climbing in Olympos ♡

There are many areas and nature clubs around Olympos that are good for climbing. One of the most well-known is the Olympos Rock Climbing at Kadir’s Tree Houses. (This may change depending on where you’re staying.)

Here, you’ll be able to find all the necessary supplies and gear for climbers at each level. The fee depends on which trail you decide to go on and the number of people in your group. For more information: www.olymposrockclimbing.com Click here for the location. Number 7 on the map.

12. Diving

There are also many spots for diving in Olympos, Turkey. The oldest is a center owned by Kadir’s Tree Houses. The diving boat is located in Adrasan, which has all the necessary equipment. They do dives two times a day (morning and evening) between April 23rd and October 31st. For more information: olymposdiving.com.

Keep in mind that Kaş, which is known as Turkey’s best place for diving, is also on the border of Antalya. You can read more about it in our Scuba Diving In Kas post. Number 8 on the map.

13. Bike or ATV Rental

You can rent bikes or ATVs from Olymposquad Safari, which is located immediately to your left once you pass Kadir’s Tree House in Olympos, Turkey. They also offer tours of the area. Instagram: olymposquadsafari Click here for the location. Number 9 on the map.

Note: We also recommend that you read the comments about any company before booking with them.

14. Paragliding at Tahtalı Mountain

If you happen to be close to the mountain, then you can ride to the summit of Tahtali Mountain by cable car. There’s a paragliding company called Escape Adventures at the top, which allows you to see all the beauty offered by Antalya in one go.

Another nice thing about choosing Tahtalı is that it’s the highest spot for paragliding. Fear not, you don’t need to be experienced at all – all the pilots are part of the Turkish National Team of pilots, and they’re all experts. So it’s up to you whether or not you’ll experience the stunning scenery from above :). Of course, nothing is that easy, and there are some conditions you must meet before going:

• First, there are age, weight and height restrictions. You have to be at least 5 years old, and men cannot weigh more than 110 kg and women 90 kg. You can’t be taller than 2 meters.
• You can’t go paragliding if you have heart problems, respiratory illnesses, epilepsy problems or if you are pregnant.
• The company provides everything you need except for running shoes, and you can take your camera and a phone with you during the flight. It’s worth pointing out that the company does not accept any responsibility if you lose any personal possessions during the trip.

What to expect on your flight

The length of the flight will vary depending on your weight and the weather that particular day. A person weighing 70 kilos could fly for about 35 minutes in good weather conditions. The maximum flight time is 60 minutes. Don’t leave paragliding to the last day of your vacation as your departure time may change according to the weather. You’ll also need to make a reservation.

All the landings are done on Tekirova Beach, but if the entire group is staying at the same hotel, then they’ll land at a beach close to the hotel. Times for taking off and landing – which are set based on when the cable cars bring people up to the summit – are all on the website. For more information: http://escape.com.tr/EN.aspx Tel: +90 252 617 02 83. Email: info@escape.com.tr

15. Ride the Cable Car to Tahtalı Mountain and Take In the View

We don’t want to make money for the people who cut down 600 trees and cleared the top of the mountain to construct this cable car. We are hesitant about even writing this on our list of things near Olympos, Turkey, so we’ll turn it over to you to make a decision with just the information below.

Prices and Hours of Operation for the Tahtalı Cable Car

For transportation, they offer their own shuttle service daily from Beldibi, Göynük, Kemer, Kiriş, Çamyuva and Tekirova, and Wednesdays and Saturdays from Kundu and Antalya.

From the 5M Migros in Antalya, head to the Tekirova Public Transportation Stop, which is located the first right after Migros. You’ll need to get on the Kemer Express Bus (Kemer Ekspres Otobüsü), which will leave you at the main gate of the Olympos Cable Car. You can spend time on the summit until 7:00 pm. Click here for the location. Number 10 on the map.

PLACES TO SEE NEAR OLYMPOS, TURKEY

Antalya is one of Turkey’s most idyllic places. We thought that maybe you would want some info on areas surrounding Olympos if you’ve come this far in your trip prep.

1. Ancient City of Phaselis

Phaselis was an important port city like Olympos and is located 35 kilometers from Antalya and 15 kilometers from Kemer. As a peninsula, Phaselis is home to three ports – one in the southwest, one on the northeast and the other in the north.

In 690 AD, it was first founded as a colony of Rhodes. An interesting fact about this city was that they met Alexander the Great with a golden crown instead of resisting and fighting against him. Most of the remains of this city are from Roman times. The remains include the harbor, the castle walls, the Temple of Zeus, the King Antonius Caravella road and a theater with 20 rows of seats.

It is suggested that the 24-meter-wide street was used as a stadium as evidence suggests athletic competitions took place here. The street was wide and short, which seems to fit the description. The earliest find here is a perfume bottle that dates back to 600 BC. The other important artifacts are remains from two different hamams in the city’s square. It is also possible to get there by sea. Click here for the location. Number 11 on the map.

2. Stick your Feet in the Icy Cold Waters of Ulupınar

After the scorching temperatures in Antalya and Olympos, Turkey, you’ll be able to cool down at Ulupınar and breathe in its fresh pine scent. There are many different types of restaurants to choose from that have gazebos overlooking waterfalls or streams. Being here fits the bill of what it means to be in nature, with the sound of the water set against the backdrop of the refreshing greenery. If you want, you can bring your own pole and catch trout.

Getting to Ulupınar

Ulupınar is 70 kilometers from Antalya and 27 kilometers from Kemer. You’ll know you’re here if coming from the Antalya-Kumluca highway right before the turn to Çıralı. You can get to Ulupınar from the Antalya bus station with the service provided by Çiçek Tur. The journey is about half an hour by car from Kemer.

Even though we were not able to eat there ourselves, we can recommend Ulupınar Tropik Restaurant. You can enjoy a pleasant lunch with the waterfall running under your feet. Address: Ulupınar Mahallesi, 07980 Kemer / Antalya, Tel: 0532 616 20 01, Website: ulupinartropik.com Click here for the location. Number 12 on the map.

3. Go to Kekova Either by Land or By Sea

Can you swim in the sky? Yes, you can, just look at the picture above!

The rocky island of Kekova, also known as the Sunken Civilization, contains historical remains that were flooded after earthquakes that occurred after ancient times. Divers were constantly examining these remains, and, in 1990, the site was declared a site where unauthorized diving or swimming was banned.

These prohibitions were later lifted in areas where there were no historical remnants. In other words, it’s possible for you to swim in the sky of this civilization. You can also come here by boat. Swimming is still prohibited in sites deemed to be of historical importance, so boats don’t stop in those places.

If you want, you can see Kekova by arranging for boat tours in Olympos or Adrasan. You can also set up adventure tours arranged in Kaş (it’s also possible to rent a canoe). Click here for the location. Number 13 on the map.

4. Adrasan’s Maldives: Suluada

If Olympos, Turkey, is a bit like Thailand, then the tiny island between Adrasan and Gelidonia, Suluada, is as pure and beautiful as the Maldives. The reason it’s been able to retain its untouched beauty is that no one has settled on it yet. The island also has its own fresh water source.

You can only get to the island via the boat tours mentioned above or by renting a fishing boat. We weren’t able to take part of a boat tour and couldn’t make it to Suluada, but the above photo can offer just as much of a recommendation as we can! Most of the tour operators offer trips to the island. The most organized one is www.suluadatekneturu.com. Click here for the location. Number 14 on the map.

5. Lycian Way

The Lycian Way is a historic footpath that is 540 kilometers long and covers 19 ancient cities. People hike it in about a month or so, but definitely not in the extreme heat of summer. It’s a great a way to come back to yourself and functions as a sort of life detox. The Lycian Way is one of the world’s best trekking routes, and it also passes through Olympos, Turkey. Here, you can find some of the most beautiful places where history and nature are intertwined. The path, which extends from Fethiye to Antalya, is generally rocky and has a lot of pebbles.

The best time for hiking the Lycian Way is in spring or autumn because when the weather heats up, it can even be hard to just get from Olympos to the beach. If you are planning to walk, then it’s beneficial to know your body and mind. Ultimately, it’ll give you a new perspective.

The “Lycian Way Guide” is a book that includes what you need to know before and during your walk. You’ll be able to learn all the necessary equipment you’ll need to bring along, as well as day-to-day schedules, as well as information about the ancient cities you are passing through. We recommend getting a copy if you’d like to hike all or a large portion of the trail. Click here for the website.

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN OLYMPOS

Melon Ice Cream

Melon ice cream is the perfect treat for honey dew lovers! You should be able to find a Mr. Hüseyin after a short walk on the beach to buy this cheap and light dessert. You must try this at some point before you leave Olympos – Turkey even.

NIGHTLIFE IN OLYMPOS

Hangar Bar

This venue is at the entrance of Kadir’s Tree Houses, and it’s operated by the very same. It is open air, with a bar in the middle. Here, you can pass time in Olympos, Turkey, while watching a live music concert before going to the Bull Bar. Even if you are not staying at the Tree Houses, you are welcome and there is no entry fee. Address: Yazır Mahallesi, Yazir Mevkii Kadir’s Tree House, Kadir’s Tree House, Olympos, Antalya, 07350. Tel: +90 242 892 12 50.  Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

Bull Bar (Öküz Bar)

Bull Bar is also located at Kadir’s Tree Houses, and there is no charge for guests staying at the hotel. Excellent for people who like dancing and music, it has impressive decor to boot. Address: Yazir Mah, Olympos, Antalya 07350. Tel: 0 533354 99 41. Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

Orange Bar

Another bar that we would consider upbeat is Orange, though it’s in more of a disco style. Generally, when there are concerts in Olympos, this is where it all happens. It has concert space as well. There is an entrance fee. Address: Yazır Mahallesi, Olympos, Antalya, 07350. Tel: 0554 484 12 65.  Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

Cafe Cactus

Unlike its name, Cactus is a very comfortable spot to listen to pleasant music or dance. You can sit outside at wooden tables and sip on a drink while listening to quality music. Furthermore, you can bring food from wherever and eat it there. Once the live music outside finishes, you can head inside to dance the night away. There’s no entry fee.

Perge Pilsner Beer at Cactus

Don’t let the name of this beer confuse you – Perge refers to the entire region, not just the ancient city. This beer is considered Turkey’s first domestic beer. Unlike its competitors, Perge was the first to use spring water. As for its taste, it’s much smoother and goes down easier than other beers you’ll find in Turkey. It’s certainly worth a try, and you can find it at Cafe Cactus.

Address: Yazır Mahallesi, Yazir Village Olympos, Antalya 07350. Phone: (0242) 892 10 55. Click here for the location. It’s right next to Olympos Deep Green Bungalows. Number 4 on the map.

HOTELS & HOSTELS IN OLYMPOS

Tree Houses in Olympos, Turkey

As we mentioned earlier, Olympos became famous for its tree houses. From its beaches to its facilities to its people, everything about Olympos is steeped in nature. 🙂 You’ll be seeing the world only in green and blue by the time you leave. Here, you won’t find any artificial buildings made out of concrete as everything is made from what you find in the earth. If you ask us where you should stay in Olympos, then we say that you should stay at places that take your breath away. Below, you can find the most popular tree houses here.

Note: It would be wise to bring cash along, even though we were able to use our credit cards. If there were any ATMs, we didn’t see them. There is a market about 10 steps from the center, and you’ll be able to find everything you need there during the summer holidays.

Kadir’s Tree Houses (Kadir’in Yeri)

We’ve said it enough times, but once more can’t hurt. These are the most famous tree houses in Olympos, Turkey. Kadir Kaya – who founded the place – built the tree houses 31 years ago! He made something out of nothing at a time when there was no electricity in the area.

Kadir’s Tree Houses are internationally known: The Washington Post voted it one of the most interesting places to see in 2010, TNT voted it as Best Hostel in the World in 2000, and the Los Angeles Times in 2011 recognized it as one of the coolest hostels in the world. We can say that this was the first place in Turkey to introduce the concept of tree houses in the accommodation scene.

We think this is a must-see, as its livelier than other places in the area, and you’ll be able to see the father of tree-house tourism in Turkey. The only downside is that it’s a bit further away from the sea than other places you can stay. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Türkmen Tree Houses

This is a complex of tree houses among orange and pomegranate trees located much closer to the sea. Turkmen Tree Houses offers a quieter and calmer location. They offer half board, which is accommodation, breakfast and dinner. There also offer a la carte food options. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Sheriff Olympos Pansiyon

This is a hostel made up of bungalow houses in an orange garden. The accommodation capacity is higher than other places in Olympos, Turkey. There is a large patio located among the trees. For more information: www.olympospansiyon.com/index.php Website. Click here for the location.

CAMPING AT OLYMPOS

The good news is that there are tons of options for people who like being out in nature and enjoy camping. We’ve gone ahead and listed some of the best camping sites below, but for more options in the surrounding area and provinces, then you can check out Turkey’s Top 25 Campsites.

Olympos Mocamp

Mocamp is on the list of best campsites in Olympos – Turkey as well. There is an option of staying in a camper or tent, as well as bungalows with air conditioning and showers. On the campground, you can make use of the shower, kitchen, restroom, laundry, electricity, dishwasher and a fridge. Address: Kas Olympos Mocamp – 2 kilometers on the way to Kalkan. For further information: www.kasolympos.com. Tel: 90 242 836 2252 / +90 544 236 0329. E-mail: orhan@kasolympos.com. Click here for the location.

CAMPING AT ÇIRALI

Çıralı Camping

Showers, wifi, electricity, chairs, tables and cleaning services are available. You can stay among the pine and orange trees and sleep either in tents or a camper. For more information, please visit www.ciralicamping.com. Click here for the location.

Engin Pansiyon Camping

Here you’ll find a campsite with a large garden. If you do not have a tent, you can rent a tent and camp there. You can also stay in a camper. For more information: www.enginpansiyon.com. Click here for the location.

WHERE IS OLYMPOS, TURKEY?

Olympos is a region connected to the Kumluca district of Antalya.
Olympos is approximately 85 kilometers from Antalya, and it’ll take you about an hour and a half to get there by car.
Istanbul is 777 kilometers from Olympos, and it takes about 9 and a half hours by car.
Adana is 727 kilometers from Olympos if going by way of Konya, but 632 kilometers if you’re following the shore.

HOW TO GET TO OLYMPOS, TURKEY

Plane from Istanbul or other major cities

Domestic airlines that’ll take you to Antalya Airport from Istanbul are Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, Onur Air and Sun Express. Once in Antalya, you’ll have to take the Havaş airport shuttle to the Antalya Bus Station (otogar in Turkish) and get on another bus going to Olympos.
If you would like to rent a car from Antalya Airport, you can get one from Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget and many others. You can rent a car and follow the route we’ve listed below.

Coming by Car from Antalya or Kas

Follow the Kemer/Kumluca signs to leave the city. You’ll come to a fork in the road with Olympos on the left-hand side. You’ll continue for 9 kilometers and see a sign that says Olympos is 3 kilometers away.

If you’re coming from Kaş, you’ll head in the direction of Antalya from Kumluca for 20 kilometers and you’ll see a sign for Olympos. You’ll go for another 9 kilometers, and you’ll see a sign on your left side saying that Olympos is 3 kilometers away.

We thank Gizem Uçar for reporting the latest news from Olympos, Turkey!

The post A COMPLETE GUIDE TO OLYMPOS, (ANTALYA – TURKEY) appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Its stunning beaches are just one of the many reasons to go to Kaş. It sets itself apart from the rest of the Turkish shores with its jazzy nights, unique experiences it offers such as kayaking tours over an ancient sunken city. If you are going to Kas, you really shouldn’t miss these: 24 Epic Things to Do in Kas

To learn more about great places to swim in other parts of Antalya, then you can head on over to our Best Beaches in Antalya post. And before we get started on Kas beaches, here’s a breakdown of the types of sandy strips you’ll find here.

Rocky / Pebbly Kas Beaches

Kas owes its clear waters largely to the fact that the seafloor is rocky. Here, waves can’t kick up sand that isn’t there. If you’re wincing at the thought of walking over a rocky beach, you don’t need to worry. The rocks have been rounded out by centuries of waves, so they don’t have sharp edges. Nevertheless, we strongly recommend buying water shoes for those of you with baby feet.

Beaches with Children Versus Beaches without Children

There are also sandy beaches in Kas for children to play. Typically, couples go to rocky beaches, and families go to sandy beaches – it’s a natural filter. Below, you’ll find information about which beach is best for you.

Beach Preference Based on the Month

– By far, the best thing about Kas is the sea, which is fed by cold underground waters. You will find that Antalya gets freakishly hot in the summer and nothing beats a refreshing dip. But if you’re coming in October, then you might desire something a bit warmer. In that case, you may prefer to go swimming in the warmer waters of Incebogaz in Kas.
– It’s no surprise the most popular places will be crowded during the summer months, so we’ll keep you apprised of which those are.

Three Ways to Enjoy the Sea

Even though the seaside is lovely, (1) renting a boat is without a doubt the best way to enjoy the sea. The second is to (2) drive around and find your own private bay to lounge in. Of course, this can be a bit of a hassle, so without further ado, here are our (3) beach recommendations:

You can view the map by zooming in.

1. Kaputas Beach
2. Seyrek Cakil Beach
3. Patara Beach
4. Akcagerme Beach
5. Hidayet’s Bay
6. Kucuk Cakil Beach
7. Liman Agzi Beach
8. Buyuk Cakil Beach
9. İncebogaz Beach

1. Kaputas Beach

And then God created Kaputas…This is one of the most spectacular beaches in all of Turkey, much less the best of all of Kas beaches. It’s located in the middle of the Sleeping Giant rock.

You’ll either have to come with your own car or via the minibusses that frequently passing through. Just be forewarned that if you do come by car, there are not many places to park, so it’ll be better if you arrive early and claim a spot for yourselves. You’ll have to walk down a number of stairs to get to the beach.

Here there is a cafe owned by the municipality, and you’ll be able to get everything you need there. There are beach services such as toilets, showers and sun chairs. Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

2. Seyrek Cakil Beach

Located close to Kaputas Beach, Seyrek Cakil is a small, untouched beach on the side of the road. This is an excellent place for people who want to escape the crowds and be alone with nature. Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

3. Patara Beach

If you don’t want to go to a rocky beach, then this is a good place for you. But if you want somewhere you can relax away from other beachgoing families, then you’re in the wrong spot. Everyone comes here since this is a popular, public beach.

This is also the Caretta turtle’s most important breeding place in Turkey. It’s important that you don’t disturb the sand too much, like when setting up an umbrella, as the eggs of the turtles are deposited under the sand. Make sure to leave the beach before sundown as that’s when the turtles use the beach. Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

4. Akcagerme Beach

As far as children’s favorite Kas beaches, Akcagerme Beach tops the list because there is a calm sea, an aqua park, tennis courts and plenty of other kids to play with. If you didn’t get the idea, this is a family beach.

It’s close to the center, and it’s a beautiful bay. You can get here from the center by taking a minibus, but you can also walk if you want. Because a vocational high school operates the beach, the prices are incredibly reasonable, but the quality of the service is “amateur.” Nevertheless, a lot of people come here. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

5. Asmaalti Beach

Asmaalti is right next to the harbor in the center and is the closest point to the sea. It’s also the most enjoyable spot to watch the sunset. Because of its location, it gets crowded during peak season. Click here for the location. Number 5 on the map.

6. Hidayet’s Bay

This is a great bay; however, everything here has been commercialized, and you’ll have to pay for it all, from parking to town tolls. The overriding opinion of people who come here is that while the place is gorgeous, the way it is operated is horrible.

The sea is wonderfully calm. Because the sea comes from underground water, you’ll be half swimming in Antalya and half in the Baltic Sea. Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

7. Kucuk Cakil Beach (Little Pebble Beach)

Ok, confession: As far as Kas beaches go, we have to admit that Kucuk Cakil Beach is probably not the one of your dreams. The beach itself is practically nonexistent, and there’s only a very narrow strip of land where you can enter the sea. But it’s located in the center of Kas and is easy to get to. The beach is quite clean and shallow, which makes it a popular one.

You can think of this as the back side of Kas Port. And for any of you who have problems with their knees, let this be a warning for you: there are lots of stairs. If you come to this beach, you’ll have to constantly use their stairs – either to get to where you were sitting or to get into the water.

There are 7-8 beaches near to Küçükçakıl, one of them including Derya Beach, which is located in front of the hotels. Hotel guests can invite people who are not staying there. These are the most vibrant and lively places where you can swim in Kas. There’s a party environment in the afternoon with cocktails and music. Click here for the location. Number 7 on the map.

For accommodation, there are hotels lined up at the beginning of the beach. There are also hotels arranged along the slope behind the first row of hotels. Our top pick in the area was Lantana Aparts. Click here for the location.

8. Liman Agzi

The harder it is to reach a place, the better it is. Liman Agzi is one of the most difficult places to reach in Kas town, but it’s also the most untouched. It’s possible to get here by public transportation or by walking, but it might be a bit difficult.

You’ll have a nice time snorkeling alongside the Caretta turtles and other living sea creatures you might encounter. There are also a lot of restaurants you can choose from here as it’s a settlement. Click here for the location. Number 8 on the map.

9. Buyuk Cakil Beach (Big Pebble Beach)

This is one of the Kas beaches that is closest to town and still large, and it’s an excellent place for anyone who doesn’t have a car. It’s located only 500 meters from Kucuk Cakil Beach. Even though it has pebbles, it’s a nice beach with its vibrant blue waters and is only a 15-minute walking distance from the center of Kas.

It’s the type of place where you can sit around at night to stargaze and listen to people playing the guitar by a fire. We were in Kas in October, and the beach was free of charge. Click here for the location. Number 9 on the map.

10. Incebogaz Beach

This is a special place located on a thinner strip of land leading to Cukurbag Peninsula. One side overlooks the open sea while the other side overlooks Bucak Bay.  This is a great place for anyone who wants to wander around aimlessly while enjoying the sea. Click here for the location. Number 10 on the map.

 Other Beautiful Beaches Outside Kas

If you’d like to know more about great swimming holes in the larger Antalya area, then head on over to our Best Beaches in Antalya post.

The post BEST KAS BEACHES – DON’T GO TO THE WRONG BEACH appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Before we move on to mouth-watering Kas restaurants & specialties, we would like to remind you that this article is a continuation 24 Epic Things to Do in Kas blog. It is packed withour recommendations to help you live your best life in Kas (Kaş in Turkish)  and it is our most important article on the town. So if you haven’t read it yet, we suggest you get to it first!

Ok ok, we can hear your stomach rumbling, so here are our recommendations for Kas restaurants.

A TURKISH DINNER CLASSIC: MEYHANES (TAVERNS)

Meyhanes are similar to taverns and are a big part of Turkish dinner culture. They revolve around drinking rakı, our national spirit made of anise, and eating A LOT. We love to enjoy long dinners at meyhanes with friends, especially on weekends, special occasions or when on holiday.

Here is how to have a true meyhane experience:

Cold dishes

When we go to a tavern, we typically start with some cold mezes (like tapas) and raki. Your waiter will either take you to a fridge where the mezes are displayed or bring a big tray to your table with all the mezes laid out for you to choose from. I recommend trying deniz böcülcesi (sea beans), fava (broad beans), atom (yogurt with fried chili peppers) and patlıcan salata (grilled eggplant salad).

Warm dishes

Next, you move on to the warm appetizers, followed by grilled fish. For the warm appetizers grilled octopus and fried calamari are some of the most popular. Paçanga böreği (dried meat in fried phyllo dough) is also great if you can find it.

Most of the time, we are already full before we get to the main course, but we keep on eating anyway! Çupra (sea bream) and levrek (sea bass) are the most common fish on the menu, but there are usually other options too. It is best to trust the restaurant’s advice on what is fresh and in season and on how to cook it. My personal favorite is lagos, but it is not very common.

Dessert

Although we are to the point of bursting, somehow we manage to find room for dessert. Usually it’s one of two types of helva (tahini or semolina) with ice cream.

Below is our list of Kas restaurants with the best meyhane experience!

Nereid Meyhanesi

Nereid is a wonderfully spacious venue where you can drink raki, munch on appetizers and listen to music from the 45’s. The staff is great, and the mezes are delicious. They also have some signature dishes that you won’t be able to find anywhere, like orange octopus and sea bass patties. Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Süleyman Sandıkçı Sk. Tel: 0542 836 34 74. Click here for the location.

Zaika

This is an open grill restaurant with a fire pit at its center. The owners are constantly working, and they pay great attention to detail – and it shows in the quality of food. The meat is exceptionally tender, and the yogurt is epic. We suggest trying saslik (“shashlyk” is a dish of skewered and grilled cubes of meat, similar to shish kebab) and the house specialty zaika. Address: Andifli Mahallesi İlkokul Sk. Website Tel: (0242) 836 23 73. Click here for the location.

Cakir Meyhane

This is a local favorite amongst Kas restaurants, where you can find appetizers such as octopus. The place is more modest than fancy. Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Mehmet Karahaliloğlu Cd.No: 12. Tel: +90 532 343 85 96. Click here for the location.

Sardelaki Greek Tavern

If you are open to experiencing something Greek at the Kas restaurants on offer, then you’re in the right place. Opened in 2016, Sardelaki is a place where you can enjoy a nice summer night with a view of Meis Island. You’ll be able to have a delicious combination of appetizers, fish and raki with Spanish shrimp, octopus and herb roast. Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Liman Sk.No: 26   Tel: (0242) 836 38 38. Click here for the location.

POPULAR KAS RESTAURANTS

In the Center of Kas

L’Apero

This is the only French cuisine you’ll find amongst the Kas restaurants, and they have an actual French chef. The good news is that the prices are not jaw-dropping! The music and the wonderful staff make it an exquisite venue. Try the fresh tomato tart, the meats and the deserts. Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Andifli Mah. Arısan Sok.1 A. Website. Tel: (0242) 836 20 85. Click here for the location.

Bi’Lokma

Lokma is a traditional Turkish dessert where fried dough is soaked in syrup. It was something served at funerals to get people’s good blessings for the dead but in the recent years it made a massive come back as a popular snack. Sabahat, who is the founder of Bi’Lokma, started her culinary adventures with her mother’s lokma recipe, and decided to sell it at a stand in Kas. It became so successful that it eventually evolved into the current restaurant. You can come here for breakfast or watch the sunset while having wine and cheese. Or you can come here for dinner to try some Turkish food you haven’t had the chance to sample yet. Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Hükümet Cad.No: 2, 07580. Tel: (0242) 836 39 42. Click here for the location.

Hideaway Bar & Cafe

Despite being located in Kas Square, this place is a secret hideout – as its name implies. A pleasant atmosphere, garden and music can all be found here. Try the signature cocktail, The Bucket. This place is also famous for its dart tournaments. Address: Kalkan Mahallesi, Cumhuriyet Cd.16 / A.  Tel: (0242) 836 33 69. Click here for the location.

Pell’s – King of Breakfast & Gastro-Pub

Istanbul was heartbroken when Pell’s moved to Kas. In the great variety Istanbul offers, we still couldn’t find a replacement for her breakfast club. When the owner moved to Kaş, she teamed up with some fine-dining chefs to prepare a fine-dining menu using local produce. It quickly became one of the best places in Kas to have dinner. The beetroot lazanga is a must-try.

I know most hotels offer breakfast but you can also come here to have a legendary Aegean breakfast. You won’t be disappointed. Click here for the location.

Mavi Bar

As Turks, when we think of Kas, we think of colorful chairs and tables. One of the iconic Kas restaurants, this is where that notion comes from. Mavi Bar is open even during the winter. This is one of the best places to grab a drink before dinner. Address: Andifli Mahallesi, Cumhuriyet Square. Tel: (0242) 836 18 34. Click here for the location.

KAS ICE CREAM

Ninja Frutti

No, this beachy town offering doesn’t mean you’ve been transported to Thailand! Ninja Frutti offers pan-fried ice cream, a Thai specialty that has spread throughout the world. You can choose your mixture – fruit, sauce, jam, biscuit or nuts. Milk will be added, then frozen with nitrogen gas. The ice cream is then cut into thin slices and rolled using a spatula. Add a topping, then nom away! Watching your ice cream being so unusually made, then eating it, makes for one pleasurable experience. Address: Andifli District Cumhuriyet Square.

Nur Patisserie – Try The Local Specialty “Burnt Ice-Cream”

In Antalya, they intentionally burn the milk to give a smoked taste to the ice-cream. I have to warn you that it is not for everyone, for example, I am not a fan,  but you should definitely try one scoop to decide for yourself.

You can get burnt ice cream from Nur Patisserie on Ataturk Boulevard in the center of Kas. The same patisserie has a branch in Kalkan as well. Address: Atatürk Bulvarı Kaş Merkez.   Website. Tel: 0 242 836 36 46. Click here for the location.

WONDERFUL NOT-QUITE KAS RESTAURANTS

If you’d like to take a break from Kas and want to look for a place with a bit more sophistication, then Kalkan is just a half-hour drive away.

Salonika 1881

This is one of Kalkan’s most popular venues. Salonika 1881 is known for its fantastic food. Its tables on the streets and white and blue decor are charming, and are typically associated with Greece. Address: Kalkan Mahallesi, No: 5, Süleyman Yılmaz Cd., 07960, Tel: (0242) 844 24 22. Click here for the location.

Hotel Villa Mahal

Hotel Villa Mahal is an award-winning boutique hotel according to Condé Nast in Kalkan. If you’re not a hotel customer, you can reserve a table and eat at the restaurant. The tables are set up right on the sea, and it’s one of those romantic experiences that you can’t miss, particularly if your trip coincides with a full moon. Address: Kalkan Mahallesi, 07960 Kalkan. Website. Tel: (0242) 844 32 68. Click here for the location

Aubergine

Kalkan Port is a place where you can find places that serve international and even Ottoman-era cuisine. They also have wonderful imam bayildi, which is a Turkish dish involving eggplant cooked in olive oil with onions, garlic and tomatoes. Address: Yalıboyu Mah.Kalkan Harbor, No: 25 Kalkan. Tel: (0242) 844 33 32. Click here for the location.

Botanical Garden Bar

Here you can enjoy cocktails while sitting in a hammock under colorful lights in the garden. Address: Kalkan Mahallesi, 07580. Click here for the location.

The post KAS RESTAURANTS & SPECIALTIES – EAT LIKE A LOCAL appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Kaleci is once of the most charming historical towns in Turkey

Most travelers have at some point thought, “how great would it be to live here” – but voicing this feeling in Kaleici, Antalya was an unexpected surprise. The historical center of Turkey’s biggest summer destination city, Kaleici (spelled Kaleiçi in Turkish) was a sketchy, dilapidated neighborhood (not too long ago!).  Years of massive restoration with great attention to the area’s ancient history, we can say without a doubt that Kaleici transformed into one of Antalya’s most beautiful and unique places. Together with Sığacık, in Izmir it is the loveliest historical settlement in the country with layers of history from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine Seljuk and Ottoman times.

Center of Antalya

Kaleici is now one of the popular centers in Antalya. Locals and tourists alike come here to hang out. There are old houses, adorable restaurants, quaint souvenir shops and lively bars with tables that spill into the cobblestone streets. And these streets look as if they’ve come straight from a period movie – you’ll want to take pictures at every corner!

Should I Book My Stay Here?

It is a small place, and you’ll be able to see everything in 2-3 hours which might make you wonder if you should book your stay there. Its location is so central that you can easily stay here and move around to other places in downtown Antalya. So if you are in Antalya during the winter, don’t think twice because nowhere else is livelier. Alternatively, you can stay in Akra Hotel in Lara, the other center in Antalya, and come to Kaleici for a visit.

If you are in Antalya in the summer, don’t stay more than 1 night in Kaleici. Go out to the wonderful beach towns of the province a such as Kas (highly recommended) or Olympos or Çıralı (Cirali). On your way back to the airport, you can stay one night in Kaleici, but make sure to arrive in the afternoon to avoid the heat.

Party at night. Fly out the next day.

Where to stay in Kaleici

**Important Reminder **
Turkey has complicated relationships with Booking.com:
– If you are abroad, you can book a hotel in Turkey on Booking.com. It is best to do your bookings while you are away.
– If you are in Turkey, you can no longer book on Booking.com. So you need to connect with a VPN in order to use Booking.com or you can switch to Agoda which is also owned by Booking.com.

Citrus Garden

This family-run hotel is an ideal place to stay, and is located centrally. The Citrus Garden has traditional architecture as well. Click here for more details and to make a reservation: Booking or Agoda

White Garden Hotel

A great place to stay with its Kaleici-style architecture, a rooftop terrace with views of the Taurus mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Click here for more details and to make a reservation: Booking or Agoda

Lavin Suites Hotel

A Greek mansion during the Ottoman Empire, it is now a boutique hotel. Click here for more details and to make a reservation: Booking or Agoda

13 Great Things to Do in Kaleici, Antalya

Places to See

1. Hadrian Gate
2. Mermerli Beach
3. Clock Tower
4. Kaleici Elavator
5. Kaleici Marina
6. Suna-İnan Kıraç Kaleici Museum
7. Hıdırlık Tower
8. Kecili Park

Where to Eat

1. Justacandy Sweet Factory
2. Holly Stone
3. Up Shot Bar
4. Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant
5. Kaleici Meyhane
6. Castle Cafe Restaurant

1. Enter Kaleici through the historical Hadrian’s Gate

Hadrian’s Gate is one of the best-preserved structures in Antalya. The gate was built in 130 AD in the name of Roman emperor Hadrianus and, because it wasn’t used for a long time, it remained undamaged to this day. You’ll definitely have to pass under this elegant, ancient structure, which has two floors and white marble columns. Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

2. Stroll Down the Historical Streets

After passing through Hadrian’s Gate, you’ll officially be in Kaleici. As we’ve mentioned, this neighborhood is Antalya’s historic center and is known for its streets lined with colorful houses, almost all of which have been painstakingly restored. Some of the homes operate as hotels and hostels, and some are boutique shops that sell souvenirs and handmade items. If you ask us, you should definitely devote some of your time to roaming around the streets of Kaleici, Antalya.

3. Hop on a Boat Trip to See the City from the Sea

Traveling around Turkey can be tough, but here’s something that’s surprisingly easy: Hopping on a boat tour from Kaleici marina. Depending on what you’re into, you can take an hourly tour or rent a private boat if it falls within your budget. The cheaper tours usually depart at 10 am and go to places like Konyaaltı Beach, Falezler and Caltiacak. The boat will stop at a few places to allow you to swim and eat (food is provided). You’ll slowly head back to the port at around 4 pm.

If you’ve had your fill of Kaleci, Antalya province has a lot to offer. There are also tours that go to the other beautiful towns like Kemer, Side and Alanya. You can find out more about these in our guide on Things to do in Antalya.

4. There’s Even a Little Beach Where You Can Swim in the Summer

Again, so easy! Located next to the marina, set behind a cliff, is a beach that used to be women’s only since it is nice and secluded. It became Mermerli Beach when an observation deck was installed on the hill (where the above picture was taken).

Even though the beach looks empty in the photos, it’s normally filled with sunbeds during the summer. This beach is typically frequented by people who are staying in hotels in Kaleici. Click here for the location, and be sure to check out our post on the Best Beaches In Antalya. Number 2 on the map.

5. Enjoy Tea & Dessert at Justacandy

Justacandy is a sweet shop owned by a young expat woman, and it has such a friendly and cozy feel that we felt it needed mentioning on this list. It just goes to show that Turkish hospitality in Turkey isn’t exclusive to locals . Here,  you can find delicate desserts to satisfy any sugar craving, or just grab a coffee or tea when you’re feeling worn out.

Tip: Justacandy is known for its waffles, but we were big fans of the tiramisu. Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

6. Glance Up at the Watch Tower (if you’re nearby)

The Clock Tower of Antalya was built in 1901 by Grand Vizier Sait Pasha during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II. You can see the clock dial on all four sides of the 14-meter-high tower, and it has a bell at the top. The bell is the oldest part of the tower, as pieces of the clock have been replaced throughout the years. Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

7. Take in the View From the Elevator

Kaleici is a settlement that starts from a cliff and descends down to the sea. Because of this, a lift was installed to widen beach access, making all our lives a little bit easier. But this isn’t just any old elevator, it serves as a lovely touristy spot for taking in the views of the Kaleici neighborhood. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

8. Navigate the Marina (Vielle ville d’Antalya)

During the Byzantine period, Antalya was one of the most important port cities on the Eastern Mediterranean. The marina in the Kaleici hood played a significant role in this era. Even though the marina has now been modernized, it’s one of the most historical places in the area, as it’s been a port for centuries. Click here for the location. Number 5 on the map.

9. Board the Submarine in the Marina

I personally find it too touristy but if you have kids, you might be interested in getting on board Nemo. You can also travel with the submarine via a private tour, a recent development. The ship has a capacity of 44 people, and it can go on 10 dives per day. The tour lasts for about an hour and goes down 35 meters – you won’t experience any changes in pressure.

10. Explore the Suna-İnan Kıraç Kaleici Museum

Run by the Suna and Inan Kıraç Foundation, here you can find valuable works that keep Turkish culture alive. The museum is made from a traditional Kaleiçi house from the 19th century and the Aya Yorgi (Agios Georgios) Church. The foundation bought these two buildings – which they recognized as requiring protection – and transformed them into a museum. In the process, they restored the buildings and created a public use for them.

In the house part of the museum, you’ll be able to see Antalya’s traditional architectural and cultural items – with mannequins depicting scenes of what life would have been like as well as old photos of the city. These scenes make use of costumes, furniture and textiles like carpets that have been gathered from the Antalya region. The interior is decorated as a traditional Kaleici, Antalya house would be, with a mosaic floor and wood-framed ceilings.

The other building that is part of the museum is the Aya Yorgi Church that dates back to 1863. This is a modest church with a rectangular plan, decorated in a similar way to a traditional house in the region. However, the church lost its distinguishing characteristics throughout the ages. The ruined church was used as a warehouse after the Greek exchange, and became a part of the museum after being purchased and restored by the foundation in 1991.

In the main gallery of the church, the Canakkale Ceramics collection is on display. There are regular exhibitions on the upper floor. The museum is open everyday except Wednesday from 9 am to 6 pm. Address: Barbaros Mah.Kocatepe Sok. No: 25, Kaleici, Antalya. Website. Tel: 0242 243 42 74. Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

11. Walk Karaalioğlu Park by passing Hıdırlık Tower

The Hıdırlık Tower is a 14-meter tower located on the southwest corner of the fortress walls of Kaleiçi. The tower dates back to the 17th century and served as a watchtower and lighthouse. It is located at the side of Karaalioğlu Park, which covers an area of 140,000 square meters. Start at the tower and walk end-to-end if you get the chance.

The park itself was built in 1940 and has three observation decks. There are also various sculptures by well-known local artists, such as Mehmet Aksoy’s “Worker and Child.” Many a Turk might be able to tell you about Kuzgun Acar’s “El” (Hand) friendship statue, which sparked a controversy in the faraway town of Kars due to relations between Turkey and Armenia. Just be careful what can of worms you open. Click here for the location. Number 7 on the map.

12. Visit the Glass Terrace Then Watch the Sunset at a Nearby Cafe

In Kaleici, there is an observation terrace that has a balcony made of glass with a wonderful view of the marina. Next to the observation terrace is Kecili Park, where you’ll find goat statues made of wood, unusually pleasant. The park also has cafes where old folks drink tea and younger ones drink beer – whatever they’re there to drink, they’re all enjoying the view. Click here for the location. Number 8 on the map.

13. Listen to Live Music at Holly Stone or Party at Up Shot Bar

Holly Stone is one of the best music venues in Kaleici – Antalya even. Mainly alternative, jazz and rock music, their schedule is constantly full, so chances are you’ll be able to find an event happening during your trip to Antalya. Click here for the location to Holly Stone. Number 2 on the map.

If you’re into electronica, then you’ll be pleased that Up Shot Bar exists. The two venues are located close to one another. You can check out both and see which one fits the mood you’re in. Click here for the location to Up Shot Bar. Number 3 on the map.

What & Where to Eat & Drink in Kaleici

Seraser

Seraser is known as Antalya’s first fine-dining restaurant. Their main aim is to combine high-quality local ingredients with modern and traditional techniques. Their menu includes international cuisine, from gnocchi to sushi. Address: Selçuk Mh., Paşa Cami Sk.No: 14, 07100 Muratpaşa, Kaleici, Antalya. Website.  Tel: (0242) 247 60 15. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

Kaleiçi Meyhane

This is a great place to eat fish and drink rakı. Rakı is strong Turkish spirit flavored with anise, and drinking it alongside seafood and olive oil-based appetizers (mezze) is a coastal tradition. This place is known for its seafood appetizers, from calamari to octopus. Address: Muratpaşa Mahallesi, Balık Pazarı Sokak No: 14, 07100 Muratpaşa, Kaleici, Antalya. Phone: 0545 639 42 63 Click here for the location. Number 5 on the map.

Castle Cafe & Bistro

Sip a cold beer and watch the sunset with a view of the Hıdırlık Tower at this cafe. The menu ranges from classic bar snacks to breakfast, and is quite extensive. The prices are not too bad either. Address: Kılınçarslan Neighborhood, Hıdırlık Sk.No: 46, 07100 Muratpaşa, Kaleici, Antalya. Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

Burnt Ice Cream

Made from burned goat’s milk, this ice cream may not sound super appetizing, but it’s a local specialty. It smells like burnt milk and has an unusual taste…so ok, not the strongest selling points. But you’ll be able to find it in the center of Kaleici at Dondurma Dükkani or Akdeniz Dondurma. You can even order some with a profiterole, if that sounds more appetizing

Where is Kaleici in Antalya

Kaleici is Antalya’s central district.Click here for the location.

It is:
15 kilometers from Antalya airport, or 30 minutes by car
45 kilometers from Belek, or 1 hour by car
80 kilometers from Olympos, or 1.5 hours by car
136 kilometers from Alanya, or 2 hours by car

How to Get to Kaleici

You can get to Kaleici, Antalya by flying into Antalya Airport and taking the Havaş shuttle into the city. The journey will take around 35 minutes, but of course, this can vary based on traffic. The shuttle’s last stop is at the 5M Migros (a supermarket) in the middle of downtown, a 10-minute taxi ride to Hadrian’s gate. Pick up for transportation from the center to the airport is also at 5M Migros, with hourly shuttle services.

The post KALEICI, ANTALYA – PLACES TO SEE & THINGS TO DO appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

The Antalya beaches are Turkey’s biggest tourist magnet. In advertising for Turkey, promoters typically use breathtaking photos of the beach at Kaputaş (near Kas). Antalya beaches are so magnetic that there are tourists who’ve never even stepped foot in Istanbul, Turkey’s biggest and most-famous city but been to Antalya multiple times.

Swimming season in Antalya is quite long – from May until the end of October. We recommend either going at the beginning or end of this season to escape the crowds and the heat. Below, you’ll find the best places to swim in Antalya. Some places will have facilities and services, but some sites are more remote. But all of them are favorites among locals, and we’ve written which ones are blue-flagged beaches.

Each section is divided by district, but if you want to better orient yourself while researching Antalya beaches, check out our article on Antalya first!

We’ve laid it all out here so you don’t have to worry about anything – just don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!

BEACH MAP

You can zoom in on the map

1. Mermerli Beach (Muratpaşa)
2. Örnekköy Beach (Muratpaşa)
3. Lara Beach (Muratpaşa)
4. İnciraltı Beach (Muratpaşa)
5. Konyaaltı Beach (Konyaaltı)
6. Olympos-Çıralı Beaches (Kumluca)
7. Adrasan Beach (Kumluca)
8. Papaz Bay (Kumluca)
9. Korsan Bay (Kumluca)
10. Cleopatra Beach (Alanya)
11. Damlataş Beach (Alanya)
12. İncekum Beach (Alanya)
13. Phaselis Beach (Kemer)
14. Kiriş Beach (Kemer)
15. Alacasu Cennet Bay (Kemer)
16. Maden Bay (Kemer)
17. Evrenseki Beach (Manavgat)

MURATPAŞA (CITY CENTER)

Mermerli Beach

Mermerli Beach is located right in the historic center of Antalya, next to the Kaleiçi Harbor behind a cliff. It was once used as a women’s beach since it’s a bit isolated. But it then evolved into a beach for all city dwellers, and became a lifesaver for them in the heat. Though the beach looks empty in the photo, it is filled with lounge chairs during the summer. Mermerli was on the Blue Flag Beach list in 2017. Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

Örnekköy Beach

This is another sandy beach near the center of the city. Located in the Lara region, Örnekköy is a calm beach where city locals typically have their summer homes. Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

Lara Public Beach

As one of Antalya’s most famous beaches in the city center, it’s become a bit overcrowded these days. This is another sandy beach, but you’ll see a lot of tents set up here as it’s the location of many a summer camp. The waters on this beach are hotter than those of Konyaaltı Public Beach (further below) – but one nice aspect is the water is stays shallower for a long distance out. It was also listed as a Blue-Flagged Beach in 2017. Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

Inciraltı Public Beach

Located next to Lara Beach, this is an excellent one of the Antalya beaches operated by the municipality. Although it’s a public beach, it’s calm, making it a great place to rest a bit in the center of the city. This was also on the Blue Flag Beach list in 2017. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

KONYAALTI

Konyaaltı Public Beach

This beach has more pebbles compared to Muratpaşa’s coastline, but Konyaaltı is known for having the longest shore. The last we heard, it was closed to cars. This sandy stretch is vast and consists of five beaches in succession, and all of them are Blue-Flagged Beaches. Click here for the location. Number 5 on the map.

KUMLUCA – ANTALYA BEACHES FOR NATURE LOVERS

Olympos, Çıralı

Only 1.5 hours away from downtown Antalya, Çıralı is a full 180 from the Antalya beaches in the city. The waters in Çıralı are azure, crisp and cool, the coast is rocky and the sounds of nature (yes, crickets!) take the place of those typical thumping beach club tunes. And there’s a historic trail to the beach to boot.

The Olympos Beach is a trench of the Olympus mountains, and it’s one of the major nesting areas for Carretta turtles in Turkey. Because of this, you won’t be able to find any services like umbrellas or chairs to sit on, as part of the effort to protect the turtles. If you’re traveling around in a car, make sure to bring a couple of folding chairs, an umbrella and a table with you if that’s how you roll.

Since this is one of the more remote locations, you’ll need to walk 5-10 minutes to get to the beach. You’ll first buy a ticket at the entrance to the Olympos Ancient City.

If you’ve traveled by car, then you’ll be able to park on the right-hand side as you enter the ruins. Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

For more details on how you can hippie it out in Olympos, check out our article on A Complete Guide To Olympos.

Adrasan Bay

Outside of Antalya’s center, but still not too far, is another little paradise. 1 hour by bus from the Antalya bus station and 20-25 minutes from Çıralı by car, Adrasan Bay has plenty of nearby hotels, cafes and venues along the coast, and a sandy beach with shallow water. Click here for the location. Number 7 on the map.

Papaz Bay (Preist Bay)

Located in the Kumluca region, Papaz Bay is also called Papaz Pier and is a place frequented by campers. This is an excellent place if you love wooded areas – and also because of this, it’s very peaceful and calm. Click here for the location. Number 8 on the map.

Korsan Bay (Pirate Bay)

This is a small and untouched cove surrounded by two large rocks – it is incredibly isolated. So much so that you’ll only be able to get there by car. Here is another ideal place for camping. Other great things to do at Korsan Bay include trekking in the forest and snorkeling. The only drawback, if you can call it one, is the water is a bit salty. Click here for the location. Number 9 on the map.

ALANYA

Cleopatra Beach

Cleopatra Beach is 2-km of sand. The waters here are shallow and so clear that there’s no need to snorkel to see fish. This is also a blue-flagged beach. According to legend, Cleopatra and her lover Antonius swam here. We would be sad travel advisers if we didn’t add that this place has a spectacular sunset – perhaps those rulers of old knew it too. 😉  Click here for the location. Number 10 on the map.

Damlataş Beach

This beach is located right in front of the famous Damlataş Cave, and it’s also a blue-flagged beach. You can think of this strip as a continuation of Cleopatra Beach. Entrance is free, but you’ll have to pay to use the sun beds and umbrellas. Click here for the location. Number 11 on the map.

Incekum Beach

If you love beach camping, or camping in general, this is a great place to do it. Here, you’ll also find the Incekum Forest Camp. Surrounded by deciduous trees, the beach also carries blue-flag status. The water is shallow, and the sand is ideal for families and children. Click here for the location. Number 12 on the map.

KAŞ

Kaş is our top pick for the best of Antalya beaches. So much so, we wrote a post about it: Best Kas Beaches. If you’d like to know more, such as what to do, what to eat, and where to stay in Kaş, then head on over to our Places To See Kas, Kas Restaurants & Specialties, and 24 Epic Things To Do In Kas posts.

KEMER – UNIQUE ANTALYA BEACHES

Phaselis Beach

With three small coves that allow you to swim amongst the ancient city of Phaselis, this is our favorite of the Antalya beaches in the Kemer district. Only one of these coves has a shower and toilets, though. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to find anything here like umbrellas or sunbeds, but you can grab food and drinks in the middle cove. Click here for the location. Number 13 on the map.

Kiriş Bay

Kiriş Bay is protected against wind and waves, so it’s the ideal spot for scuba diving. There are also some great underwater caves just right for a photo op. Click here for the location. Number 14 on the map.

Alacasu Cennet Bay

“Cennet” means “heaven” in Turkish, and this bay lives up to its name. It is located inside Beydağları National Park, and it’s so untouched that there are no businesses operating here. Click here for the location. Number 15 on the map.

Maden (Atbükü) Bay

Another one of those Antalya beaches with a literal name (though not quite as romantic as Cennet Bay), “maden” means quarry or mine in Turkish, and this area was once a spot for chrome mining. One of the most remote and untouched areas in the region (well, since the mining days), it’s a favorite spot for campers. The beach has small pebbles, and the water is crystal clear. The beach is located on the Lycian Way, and you can get to Olympos in two hours by foot. Click here for the location. Number 16 on the map.

MANAVGAT

Evrenseki Beach & Kumköy, Side

Side is an Antalya town famous for its nature and historical importance as an ancient city. There are several businesses at Kumköy Beach, and Evrenseki is a public beach – but don’t let the worry you, even the changing rooms and toilets are clean. The water here is a bit wavy, but it’s a lovely sand beach. Click here for the location. Number 17 on the map.

DEMRE

Kekova Beach

Demre is also referred to as the Sunken City and has important historical remains that have been underwater since the earthquakes of ancient times. It’s definitely the most intriguing of the Antalya beaches. But if you didn’t think it could get any cooler, you can swim alongside the ruins! Of course, you can’t (and really, shouldn’t) swim in the heart of the ancient ruins, but if you want to get closer to the good stuff, you can hop on a boat directly across to Kaleköy and swim there.

You can also adventure on the nearby island of Kekova, via tours from Kaş (or rent a canoe).  Click here for the location. Number 18 on the map.

The post ANTALYA BEACHES – WHERE TO SWIM IN ANTALYA appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

With its cypress-covered cliffs dropping into jewel-toned waters and visibly ancient history Antalya is the pearl of Turkey’s glittering Mediterranean coast. It is Turkey’s biggest beach destination and a big people-pleaser. No matter what type of vacation you want – sitting on the beach, visiting historic ruins, extreme sports or nights out – you’ll be able to find all kinds of things to do in Antalya. From the most finicky to the most laid-back.

Antalya is a big people-pleaser however, we would be leading you sorely amiss if we didn’t make this one disclaimer: Antalya is hot as hell during the summer. So hot, that your enthusiasm for Antalya might easily evaporate in the summer heat. Still, it seems to be the Brits’, Germans’s and Russians’ favorite time to be here.

HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ANTALYA

Choose which town of Antalya is for you
It has many holiday towns, each with their own distinctive character – and all catering to different kinds of tourists:
– Geyikbayiri is a world-renowned rock-climbing spot attracting nature-lovers
– Kas is popular among the bohemian crowd
– Olympos among backpackers
– Belek among the elite
– Alanya among low-budget travelers
– Cirali (Çıralı) for a calm beach getaway, etc…

So, In this article, we’ll help you determine which town is for you by explaining to you what each town offers.

Focus
Antalya city is a quick 1-hour flight from Istanbul but these towns are spread over a large geographical area. In some cases, it will take 2-3 hours to get from one to the other.

Therefore, the best way to approach your trip to Antalya is to choose a town or maybe 2 and spend time exploring it thoroughly. Trying to experience all the little things to do in Antalya province will take weeks.

Our top choice

If you don’t have a lot of time and want to know our top recommendation, we’ll tell you straight to go to Kas (May to Oct).

BEST TIME TO VISIT ANTALYA

Antalya is popular through mid-April to late October. And in this Antalya travel guide, we will give our advice for those who are coming to Antalya in this window.

It gets the most tourists from June to the beginning of Sept. It gets packed with tourist during the summer although it is hot as hell. So it is not the ultimate time to be there but it is when most people can use vacation time. Also, people from northern countries seem to really enjoy spending time getting baked.

We think spring and fall are fantastic. Late September is my personal favorite. The weather is neither cold nor hot (27-30 degrees celcius), and the streets & beaches are free of tourists.

But both seasons offer its own advantages. While spring won’t allow you to enjoy swimming in the fall sea, still warm from summer, it does offer the smell of oranges as well as gushing river waters resulting in lush mountain air and foliage.

BEST VACATION TOWNS IN ANTALYA

First, let’s make this clear: Antalya’s most known towns aren’t necessarily the best ones. Some are too touristy and industrialized. We would say some Antalya towns have no spirit. So we made 2 lists for you: the towns we recommend you consider and everything else.

Here you will find our top recommendation from Antalya but in no specific order.

Important: If you are traveling to Antalya during the low season, better stay in downtown Antalya. Beach towns aren’t fun when they are empty. Kaleici would be our best bet.

1. OLYMPOS & CIRALI

Olympos and Cirali share one spectacular beach. This makes it people assume they can easily commute between the two but it is not the case. There is a river that divides the 2 towns (you can slightly see at the bottom of the photo) and it takes 30-40 mins to walk or drive from one the other.

Nature wise they are the same, it looks like a post-card from Thailand with its white beach and lush forest. You can swim the crystal clear sea and watch Caretta turtles nest. So the area is under strict protection. No construction is allowed in the ara. That is why you will only see shacks and cottages but no hotel developments. So far, both towns sound alike but indeed they have different characters.

Olympos is mostly popular among backpackers. You can stay in tree houses, hang out at its few rock bars, make friends from around the world… Its crowd is younger than Cirali’s. Cirali, on the other hand, is the kind of place you go to read your book. It is a bit more expensive, has a few luxury accommodation choices.

From both you can go to enjoy wine at the summit of the Olympos mountain, where there is an undying fire of legend breathing from the rock. It literally won’t go out.

While you’re there, you can also hop on over to Adrasan Bay, which is located only 20-25 minutes away. There are plenty of hotels where you can stay, and cafes where you eat and have a good time along the coast. For all other details of what there is to do in Olympos and its surroundings, read our article on Olympos. Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

2. KAS

Facts are facts: Kas is the most beautiful town in the region and is our favorite of things to do in Antalya. Fabulous beaches, cute cafes and bars and hip people. The best time to go is April-May and October-November as everywhere else in Antalya. If you are going there on high season, because it’s such a small place, it can’t take the big crowds you might encounter in other places in Antalya.

There are also fine dining and great fish restaurants that appeal to the English tourists who frequent Kas as well as the expat crowd there. If you’re able to enter Greece, then a great option is to hop over to Meis Island. Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

The good news is that the next 2 recommendations we have for you are very close to Kas and you can easily hop from one to the other.

If you want to learn more about:
– Swimming spots in Kas, then head over to our Best Kas Beaches
– Things to do & Places to see: Places To See In Kas and 24 Epic Things To Do In Kas
– Food and lodging recommendations: Kas Restaurants & Specialties

3. KALKAN

Kalkan is located 25 km from Kas, and it was founded by Greek sailors more than 200 years ago. It bears the traces of the Lycian civilization. If you’re British and looking for a new home, buying property here might be on your list of things to do in Antalya :). The majority of the population is made up of Brits! Yes, you read that correctly. The English, who own villas in Kalkan, make up nearly 80% of the population. It might as well be a Commonwealth country. 😀

Kalkan is calmer compared to Kas and was made to cater to the Brits who live there, which means that there are more luxurious boutique hotels and villas. There are some nice venues such as Salonika, Villa Mahal and Aubergine. Click here for the location. Number 3 on the map.

4. KALEKOY & DEMRE

We think that Demre and Kalekoy might be the region’s most unique places, and they include some unique things to do in Antalya too. Demre has both the Santa Claus church as well as the Sunken City, which was devastated by an earthquake in the 2nd century. And, right across from it is Kalekoy, which has incredible natural and historical features, as well as nice places for eating and drinking.

Since it’s not easy to get here by land, you can hop on a tour boat from Kas or Antalya. You can rent a canoe from Kalekoy and discover the treasures of the sunken city. You can also walk through the remains of Kalekoy’s port area and swim amongst a deeply rooted history. There is also a small amphitheater located at the top of Kalekoy, which is an ideal spot for viewing the scenery. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

If you are based in Kaş or Kalkan, you can easily make a day trip to here.

How much time should I spare for these towns?
3-5 days for around  Kas/ Kalkan
2-3 days for  Olympos / Cirali

OTHER POPULAR VACATION TOWNS WE DON’T LIKE AS MUCH

Belek, Kemer and Alanya are the three places in Antalya where there are a lot of resort hotels. During the summer, this is where a lot of tourists – mainly Germans and Russians – come for a holiday. We can say that we wouldn’t prefer these locations; however, it might be easier for families with children to stay at a resort-like place where everything is included.

1. KONYAALTI

Konyaalti used to be one of the most popular places in Antalya, but no longer. At one point, Lara Beach – a blue-flagged beach – was one of the most popular beaches in the center of Antalya. The sands here would become really crowded during the summer, so people started preferring other beaches and things to do in Antalya. Click here for the location. Number 5 on the map.

2. BELEK

Belek, a town that is part of Antalya’s Serik district, is one of Antalya’s most-preferred places for foreign tourists. It became a place where 5-star, all-inclusive resort houses were built in the 1990s. In addition to this, it also became a name all over the world for its golf tourism. Nearly every 5-star resort here has a golf course.

Most places here are open during the winter because this is where corporations come from all over to have meetings and hold events. There are tons of halls where companies can have congresses and business fairs. Click here for the location. Number 6 on the map.

3. ALANYA

Alanya became popular in the 1990s, and the place is now full of resort hotels. We can say that this is now a city in and of itself. If you’re going to stay here, then it would make more sense to stay at a resort hotel located on the outskirts of the center, and then go down the square where the Alanya Castle is located in the evening.

Since the humidity is quite high compared to other regions, it’s often unbearable in the summer months. If you don’t want to stay at a resort, there are two beautiful beaches next to Cleopatra and Damlatas. Still, we prefer other bits of sea in Antalya. Click here for the location. Number 7 on the map.

4. KEMER

Kemer is also another place that has a high concentration of Antalya’s resort hotels. If you ask us, this is not really the scene for most travelers who read our site, and isn’t amongst our top things to do in Antalya. But we wanted to mention it, and let you know that if you’re going to stay here, definitely rent a boat and go down a little further south to Çıralı and Kaş. Click here for the location. Number 8 on the map.

 PLACES TO SEE & THINGS TO DO IN ANTALYA

If you take a look at the map below, you will see that our recommended towns are actually quite far from central Antalya. So, if you decide to take our recommendation and focus around Kas/ Kalkan or Olympos / Cirali regions, you might not be able see & do these things. If that makes you might wonder if it is a good idea to be so far, we can assure you that it is not a tradeoff you need to worry about.

Kaleici is the only place we would recommend you try to make time for. You should consider checking it out on the way to ot from the airport.

You can view the map by zooming in.

Places to See

1. Olympos
2. Kaş
3. Kalkan
4. Kaleköy
5. Konyaaltı
6. Belek
7. Alanya
8. Kemer
9. Kaleiçi Antalya Old Town
10. Düden Waterfall
11. Kurşunlu Waterfall
12. Hip-Notics
13. Perge
14. Antalya Museum
15. Köprülü Canyon
16. Tazı Canyon
17. Ridocamp
18. Josito Camp
19. Manavgat Waterfall
20. Tahtalı Cable Car
21. Aspendos
22. Patara
23. Termessos
24. Sandland

Where to Eat

1. 7 Mehmet Restaurant
2. Piyazcı Ahmet
3. Dondurma Dukkanı
4. Akdeniz Dondurma

1. KALEICI

Kaleici is Antalya’s most picturesque place when it comes to the city. No matter which town of Antalya you are planning to visit, with its wonderfully cute historical streets and vibrant nightlife Kaleici is a must. The historical houses inside the old city walls are the center of Antalya’s social life today. Locals com here to drink and let loose a bit. The tourists who come here can see some amazing historical remains, and there’s a beach for children to swim.

If you’re in Antalya during the summer, then we recommend you don’t come here during the day, as you won’t be able to enjoy it under the heat. Come around sunset, and you can sit somewhere and sip on a cold beer while listening to live music. We have some suggestions for wonderful spots for you to eat and drink in Kaleici, as well as places to visit. Number 9 on the map.

2. DUDEN AND KURSUNLU WATERFALLS

Antalya also has two famous waterfalls: Duden and Kursunlu. The cool thing about Duden? It cascades through the middle of the city! Of all the well-planned things to do in Antalya, imagine passing by a waterfall on your way to the market. It is in such an unexpected spot that you’ll wonder if you’re in the wrong place when you go to park your car or get off the bus. There’s even a cave that you can visit.

Duden’s water eventually falls from Antalya’s cliffs into the sea, and if you take a boat trip from Kaleici you can see it from the aboard ship. But you’ll have a better view of it if you go by car. Click here for the location (it’s the place in the photo). Number 10 on the map.

While Duden was quite lovely, we liked Kursunlu Waterfall the most. If you don’t have time for both, then we recommend that you go to Kursunlu. The color of the water is quite beautiful and makes you feel as if you’re in an exotic, tropical location like Bali. There is a pleasant hiking trail where you’ll be able to see its water flowing downhill, and a charming cafe for a picturesque pit-stop. Do keep in mind that it’s much easier to get to Duden than it is to get to Kursunlu.

We heard that it was crowded during the summer, but when we went in the spring we had the falls and trail to ourselves. There were signs warning against swimming, so don’t expect to take a dip under these falls. Click here for the location. Number 11 on the map.

3. HIP-NOTICS

Located in Burunucu Mevkii Cakis Village, Hip-notics is a cable ski park. Cable skiing is a type of wakeboarding where the skier’s rope and handle are pulled along by a cable system. A motorboat pulls a traditional waterskier. Cable skiing is a safer and more economical way to wakeboard – and it’s easier for beginners.

It’s also environmentally friendly, as the cable uses electricity, and there’s no pollution from the boat in traditional water skiing. Hip-notics also offers other water activities such as waterskiing, kneeboarding and fly boarding. There are also facilities where you can play basketball, volleyball and other sports, as well as eat. Click here for the location. Number 12 on the map.

4. ANCIENT CITY OF PERGE

The ancient city of Perge is located 18 km (or 15 minutes by car) away from Kursunlu Waterfall. It is one of the most important cities of the Pamphili civilization, and lies 4 km away from the Aksu River. The entrance of the city has a magnificent Hellenistic gate, one of the world’s best-preserved stadiums, as well as a Greek-Roman amphitheater. This ancient city  is on UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage List, though most of the statues uncovered in this area have been moved to the Antalya museum.

The site opens at 8 am throughout the year, but closes at 7 pm in the summer and 5 pm in the winter. Click here for the location. Number 13 on the map.

5. ANTALYA MUSEUM

The Antalya Museum was founded in 1922 after the First World War to protect the historical artifacts found in the area from being looted. The museum was first in the Alaaddin Mosque in Kaleici before it was moved to the Donard Yivli Mosque and then moved into its current building.

Inside the museum, you’ll be able to see historical monuments dating back to the three ancient cities of Lykia, Pamphylia and Pisidia. The most valuable pieces in the museum are sculptures that date back to the Roman period, particularly from those found in the ancient city of Perge.

The museum was awarded the “Council of Europe Museum of the Year” prize in 1988. For history buffs, this should definitely be included on your list of things to do in Antalya. Website. Visiting Times: 8:30 am – 7:30 pm. Click here for the location. Number 14 on the map.

6. KOPRULU CANYON

Koprulu Canyon is a national park that goes from Koprucay to the sea, and is great for outdoor activities like hiking, camping and nature walks, as well as rafting during the summer. There are also two bridges that date back to the Roman period. Click here for the location. Number 15 on the map.

7. RAFTING

One of the best things to do in Antalya – and the best part about the region – is rafting due its abundance of rivers. One of the best spots to go rafting is the Koprulu Canyon, which we mentioned above. If you decide to go, then you’ll be paired with an experienced guide and share a raft with 8-10 people over a distance of 14 km. This will take you about 2.5 hours, and the company provides helmets, paddles and life vests.

The most ideal months for rafting are July, August and September, and many companies offer tours in this area. Some companies offer package tours that take you from where you’re staying and included in the price are transportation, rafting and lunch.

8. TAZI CANYON

A local newspaper declared some startling news to Antalya residents: A canyon had been discovered. In 2017.

How a canyon could for so long go undetected is perplexing to many, especially one as spectacular as Tazi. The canyon is located only 10-15 minutes away from Koprulu Canyon by car. You won’t be able to see the canyon while on the road, so don’t think we’ve given you the wrong address. You’ll need to park your car and walk two km through the forest. At first glance, you might not see the path immediately, but not to worry either, it’s not a challenging walk. Click here for the location. Number 16 on the map.

9. CLIMB IN GEYIKBAYIRI

Geyikbayiri in Antalya is the best place for rock climbing in all of Turkey. It’s one of the top 10 places to climb in the world, making it a definite must among the things to do in Antalya for any outdoor enthusiasts. Geyikbayiri is part of the Taurus Mountains, and people from all over the world will come here to practice climbing.

Some courses have various difficulty levels, and the rocks are predominantly limestone. The height of the rocks can range from 15 to 50 meters. Because of this, this is an excellent place for climbers of all experience levels.

Geyikbayiri also has places for camping. Rido Camping has climbing areas and beaches. There is wifi, showers, and a laundry room. Click here for the location. Number 17 on the map.Another option from Geyikbayiri is JoSiTo Guesthouse and Camp, which is run by three Germans. Click here for the location. Number 18 on the map.

10. MANAVGAT WATERFALL

The Manavgat Waterfall is one of Turkey’s most famous waterfalls. Its waters come from the Manavgat River, and fall from a height of 4-5 meters. At the falls you can find a cafe, a restaurant, tea garden, picnic area and a place for camping. You might be able to go rafting here, but as we mentioned above, the best place to raft in Turkey is in Koprulu Canyon.

You’ll also have to pay something extra to park your car here. Click here for the location. Number 19 on the map.

11. CABLE CAR

I struggled with including this here because the construction of cable cars in this country generally means that a ton of trees have been destroyed. However, we didn’t want to bypass one of the more popular things to do in Antalya, which is ascending to the top of Tahtali Mountain by cable car for a bird’s eye view of Antalya.

There are two cable cars in Antalya, but this is the better option. There are daily transportation services from Beldibi, Goynuk, Kemer, Kiris, Camyuva, Kundu and Antalya. The place at the top is open until 7 pm, and there is a cafe inside, but the prices, like the view, are quite steep. Click here for the location. Number 20 on the map.

12. ASPENDOS

The ancient city of Aspendos, which was founded by the Achaeans in the 10th century BC, has the best-preserved Roman theatre in the Mediterranean geography. This theatre can hold 12,000 people and was built in the 2nd century AD. This was built during the height of the Roman Empire. As you might have guessed, the theatre has excellent acoustics. From mid-August to mid-September, there are concerts and ballets here.

But there’s more to Aspendos than just the theatre. Here, you’ll also be able to see the city’s arena, stadium, agora, basilica, fountain, parliament building, aqueducts, streets, temples, baths and cisterns. Aspendos survived during the Byzantine period, and was used as a caravanserai during the time of the Seljuks. It was left idle afterward but, in 1930, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk (the founder of modern Turkey) wanted this area to be restored and opened again.

Visiting hours are 8 am – 7 pm between April and October, and 8 am – 5 pm between November and March. Click here for the location. Number 21 on the map.

13. LYCIAN WAY

Hiking or camping the Lycian Way are not just popular things to do in Antalya, because the massive 535-km route starts from Fethiye and crosses through Antalya. Most of Antalya falls somewhere on the Lycian Way, but the 13-km portion from Adrasan to Olympos is one of the most popular trails.

If you’re interested, you can join trekking groups based wherever you’re staying in Antalya, and you can choose from a variety of different paths.

14. PATARA ANCIENT CITY

Amongst the things to do in Antalya, you’ll never run out of beautiful, historic ruins to wander. The ancient city of Patara is located about 40 km from Kas, and served as the capital city of the Lycian Union. During that time, important union meetings were held in the parliament, the remains of which you can see. Patara, which was one of six cities that had voting rights in the Lycian Union, was an important center during several periods of history.

Open 8 am – 7 pm every day of the week from April 15th – October 2nd and from 8 am – 5 pm from October 3rd to April 14th. Click here for the location. Number 22 on the map.

15. ANCIENT CITY OF TERMESSOS

Termessos, a plateau on top of Gulluk Mountain, is one of the ancient cities in the Psidia region – and it’s one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey. This place is located in such a strategic position that Alexander the Great was not able to surround and conquer it in 333 BC. The city was besieged later in 71 BC during the period of the Ptolemaic Dynasty.

According to documents approved by the Roman senate, Termessos was independent of Rome and had its own laws and internal affairs – in other words, it was independent. Unfortunately, there are no records about the status of the city during the Byzantine and Ottoman times. Click here for the location. Number 23 on the map.

16. SANDLAND

On Antalya’s Lara beach, there are huge sculptures that have been made only with water and sand. The International Antalya Sand Sculpture Festival (Sandland) is an open-air museum where hundreds of massive sand sculptures are displayed. This is one of the most impressive displays considering the area it covers (10,000 sq meters) and the material used (10,000 tons of river sand), as well as the artists who participate.

Of course, these works are not permanent. They are destroyed when the exhibition is over – inherent in the art of sand sculpting. But that also makes it an art that is constantly updated. There are workshops, concerts and even video mapping. Certainly they’re unusual, but they’re also worthwhile things to do in Antalya. The sand works can be seen between 9:30 am – 11 pm. Click here for the location. Number 24 on the map.

*A REQUEST: DO NOT GO TO THE DOLPHINARIUM

You are a better person than that. And certainly do not take your child to this dolphin prison, as you want to pass on good morals and a clear conscience, not cruelty. Dolphins are extremely emotional and intelligent beings and they suffer deeply in captivity. Do not be fooled into thinking that they enjoy meeting people or performing tricks.

Their faces naturally make it seem like they are always smiling, but they are not happy. Indeed they are trained through starvation. Trainers keep food away from them to make sure they obey orders. In the wild, dolphins live amongst family. When they are abducted and torn from their families, they suffer deeply from depression.

Due to all the stress they are under, dolphins die early in captivity. We hope you will find it your heart not to take part in this cruelty. If every person goes just ones, it creates a huge demand for these parks, and new ones are incentivised to open. No 2 hours of entertainment is worth making another creature suffer a lifetime. There are better things to do in Antalya.

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT IN ANTALYA

1. Eat at 7 Mehmet

This restaurant is a favorite in Antalya with its white tablecloths, linen napkins, quality service and delicious food. The menu changes as the sea does, and the fish and meat here are delicious. You should also try their olive oil dishes, pilaf (rice) with pumpkin seeds and almonds, lamb and duck tandoori, and candied pumpkin dessert.

Address: Meltem Mahallesi, Atatürk Cultural Park, Dumlupınar Bulvarı No: 201, 07030 Muratpaşa Click here for the location. Number 1 on the map.

2. Turkish “Meatballs,” Beans & Fresh Pumpkin Dessert with Tahini

Piyazci Ahmet is famous for its cold bean dish, which is typically a dish eaten alongside Turkish meatballs, called kofte. While you’re here, for dessert, you can try the pumpkin dessert. It’s candied pumpkin that is typically soaked in syrup, drizzled with tahini and served alongside creme. Address: Altındağ Mh., 166. Street 29 / A, 07050 Muratpaşa Click here for the location. Number 2 on the map.

3. Burnt Ice Cream

Burnt ice cream is one of Antalya’s signature flavors, especially in the Kas/Kalkan/Demre region. Most people end up not liking it, but you must give it a try anyway. This ice cream is made from goat’s milk that has been burned while cooking.

You can find it nearly anywhere in the city center at portable ice cream stalls or at Nur Patisserie on Bankas Street. They have been making it for years. If you’re in the square, then you can try it at Dondurma Dükkanı. (Click here for the location.) Number 3 on the map. or at Akdeniz Dondurma. It’s also lovely alongside profiterole. Click here for the location. Number 4 on the map.

MOST BEAUTIFUL ANTALYA BEACHES

While planning what things to do in Antalya, there’s no doubt you’re wondering about the best places to go swimming. Head on over to our Antalya Beaches post.

WHERE IS ANTALYA?

Antalya is located in Turkey’s Mediterranean region, and it’s Turkey’s southernmost point. It’s the sixth-biggest city in terms of size and the fifth-largest in terms of population.

Distance to Antalya by city

Istanbul: 700 km, or 8 hours
Ankara: 490 km, or 6 hours
Izmir: 470 km,or about 6 hours
Konya: 300 km, or about 4 hours and 30 minutes
Adana: 560 km, or about 8 hours

HOW TO GET TO ANTALYA

Antalya is a massive place. For this reason, you’ll need to plan out first what things to do in Antalya, and how to get where you’ll want to go. All airlines and bus companies in Turkey have flights to Antalya Airport.

From the airport, you can rent a car or get on a shuttle to reach the city center. If you want to go to the different towns within Antalya and you’ve come by bus or plane, then we recommend that you not go to the center of Antalya and just rent a car. This way, you’ll be able to navigate more freely. For those of you who want to go to Kas, it’s more practical to fly into the Dalaman Airport.

The post TOP THINGS TO DO IN ANTALYA – TAKE A LOCAL’S ADVICE appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.