Antalya (ancient Pamphylia), Turkey’s primary Mediterranean holiday destination, is a stunning town with palm-lined main streets and a prestigious award marina on the Mediterranean. In Kaleici’s beautiful old district, small winding lanes and old wooden buildings border the medieval city walls.
Many foreigners have recently purchased and still purchase property in and around Antalya for vacation or retirement. It quickly became a preferred destination, particularly for German and Russian nationals. During the winter, its population is about 2.5 million, but during the summer, it over doubles.
Antalya contains a population of 775,157 people to keep with the 2007 census (388,133 men; 387,024 women). During the winter, the broader metropolitan region incorporates a population of over 1,000,000 people, which rises dramatically within the summer. it isn’t just fashionable for international tourists, but it is also a favorite holiday spot for several Turkish people.
Antalya is found in southwest Anatolia, on the Mediterranean Gulf of Antalya, about 244 kilometers (152 miles) from Ankara, 255 kilometers (158 miles) from Adana, 222 kilometers (138 miles) from Izmir, and 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Istanbul. The Taurus mountain line in southern Anatolia runs east-west parallel to the Mediterranean, resulting in small coastal plains bordered by mountains on three sides and also the ocean on the fourth.
The Taurus formation protects the region from chilly northerly winds, and thus the climate is typical of the Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and fairly mild and wet winters. Around 300 days of the year are sunny; sea temperatures range between 15°C (59°F) and 28°C (82°F); in July and August, air temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F), with temperatures within the low-to-mid 30°C (86°F) are normal. The ocean breeze and north-easterly breezes assist in remaining the high heat tolerable.
The economy of Antalya is built on a mix of tourism, agriculture, and trade, as well as some light industries. Agricultural items include citrus fruits, cotton, cut flowers, olives, olive oil, and bananas. The Antalya Metropolitan Municipality’s covered wholesale market complex meets 65 percent of Turkey’s fresh fruit and vegetable demand.
After Istanbul, Antalya is considered one of the best cities for investment, and in some situations, it is considered better than Istanbul. Property in Antalya is in high demand, especially away from huge developments and the hustle and bustle of larger towns. As a result, Antalya has long been regarded as Turkey’s top city for selling homes to foreigners. Because there is a high demand for limited-edition, one-of-a-kind items that are good investments.
Is Antalya Good Place to Live?
Yes, Antalya is a good place to live. The Antalya area on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast is made up of charming little beach resorts and a lively city. Citrus capital because of its vast orange production is also the country’s second most visited tourist attraction after Istanbul and an ex-pat refuge.
According to the official government statistics webpage, it is the second most popular location for international home sales. Walking through the streets of the main locations, whether for buy-to-let investments or permanent migration, you are likely to hear more than one language spoken.
Turkey has three recognized climatic systems, and Antalya comes within the Koppen climate classification CSA because of its hot summer Mediterranean weather and moderate and wet winters. The rainy season lasts from January to March, giving residents nine months of beautiful weather to enjoy outdoor activities. Consider alfresco eating, Christmas swimming in the sea, t-shirt weather in March, and deep dark suntans in July and August. The appropriate weather conditions also encourage people to be active, which aids in the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.
Continuing on the subject of health, Turkey, in general, benefits from not having embraced fast food as other countries have. While it is popular in the larger cities, most Turks prefer to make and enjoy a freshly prepared meal using only the finest ingredients. Salads, as well as nuts and fruits, are common side dishes in most dinner settings. Turkish homemakers still cook soup from scratch, and street food, such as corn on the cob or mussels, is centered on healthful ideas.
Antalya is brimming with rich harvests all year, and the local markets are cheap and plentiful. The best local cuisine may be found in bazaars and local marketplaces. Many people still make their items at home, so even ‘quick food’ on the street is artisanal and slightly healthier than regular fast food. There are a variety of fish dinners, seafood, snacks, and beverages to choose from.
The elegance and efficiency of the local airport have earned it numerous awards and accolades. Antalya ex-pats have easy access to the rest of the country and the world, notably Europe, with hundreds of local and international flights coming each week. In the summer, the international terminal is open 24 hours a day as tourists from all over the world arrive for their vacations, and even in the winter, when other major holiday airports such as Bodrum and Dalaman close, Antalya airport remains open.
Moreover, Antalya boasts some of the greatest shopping facilities in Turkey, from simple weekly food shopping to renovating your house or updating your clothing. Major supermarkets can be found in all of the region’s minor villages, and the main city center is proud of its all-inclusive retail complexes.
Antalya is well-known as one of the most important cities on the Turkish Riviera. Sailing boats depart every day to take visitors on a trip to explore the coastline.
Finally, the Antalya real estate market provides Antalya ex-pats with everything from low-cost studio flats to luxurious, state-of-the-art villas. Potential property buyers will find a home in one of the many beach regions to fit their aspirations of ex-pat living in Turkey, with prices starting at an average of US$45,000.
Is Antalya Expensive to Live?
No, Antalya is not expensive to live in. In Antalya, one person can live for US$500 per month, which includes the rent of a one-bedroom apartment. Antalya has good transportation options and flights between Europe are available. Prices are competitive, allowing you to book some low-cost flights.
The average cost of lodging in Antalya for one person is US$16. The average price for a hotel room in Antalya for two persons sharing a normal double-occupancy hotel room is US$32. While Antalya meal costs vary, the average cost of meals in Antalya is US$11 per day. Based on past visitors’ spending patterns, an average dinner in Antalya should cost about US$5 per person while dining out. Breakfast is often less expensive than lunch or supper. Food costs in Antalya sit-down restaurants are frequently more than quick food or street food pricing.
A cab journey in Antalya is substantially more expensive than public transit. Previous visitors to Antalya paid an average of US$5.50 per person, per day on local transportation. In Antalya, entertainment and activities generally cost US$9 per person, per day. This covers entry prices to museums and sites, day excursions, and other sightseeing costs. In Antalya, the typical person spends US$5 per day on alcoholic beverages, despite your greater budget, the more you spend on booze, the more fun you may have. Moreover, the average person spends US$0.80 per day on bottled water. Antalya’s public water is rated safe to drink.
Antalya property for sale at a low cost is far less expensive than Istanbul. Daily living and costs are also far less expensive than in Istanbul, and about half the price of London. Everything you need in town is conveniently accessible and diverse. Antalya’s local economy is developing faster than those of other cities, therefore job and investment opportunities are expanding as well. Antalya’s ample residential spaces are particularly expanding. It is near several amenities such as government buildings, health centers, medical stores, parks, retail centers, and local shops.
The freshly built highways make transportation easier. Transportation across the city is simple, convenient, and quick. Most people who seek property in Antalya Turkey do so for the summer or winter season alone, but it is more than just a tourist destination; it is a culturally desirable place to live that has been for years. The price range for property for sale in Antalya Turkey can vary from US$30,000 to US$400,000. The real estate sector has been working on a new project, and demand has been increasing year after year.
What is the Cost of Living in Antalya?
The cost of living in Antalya is relatively low compared to other major cities in Turkey such as Istanbul.
Food in Antalya is reasonably priced and of high quality. In general, the service is excellent, and the waiters are quite pleasant. Around town, you may also locate several nice baklava shops. The prices are low with great quality. Check out some of the local pastry businesses as well.
Antalya offers a wide range of public transportation options. Public buses, trams, minibusses, taxis, and minibusses are examples of these modes of transportation. Buses are inexpensive, and many of them have air conditioning.
Every year or two, certain typical expenditures will be incurred. You should apply for a home grant and, if you are under the age of 65, you will also require mandatory health care coverage. Charges increase year after year; in 2020, it will cost US$52 each month to cover a single person or a married couple, as well as any minor children under the age of 18.
If you own property, you should acquire DASK, the required seismic tremor protection, and pay a fee comparable to the yearly board fee. It’s also a good idea to invest in substance protection to preserve your furniture and other belongings in your new Antalya house.
The cost of renting a property in Turkey is still modest and inexpensive when compared to popular tourist destinations for foreigners. As a result, many people of many nationalities want to stay in Turkey by purchasing property.
There are numerous types of homes available for purchase and rent in Turkey, with costs ranging depending on the applicant’s location and financial situation. The most important thing to note about the cost of renting a house in Turkey is that the renter is liable for the cost of municipal services like power, phone, internet, and water. These costs should be accounted for in the monthly rent.
In 2021, the cost of renting a one-bedroom flat in the city center costs around US$100. The cost of renting a three-room condo in the city center is around US$170, while the cost of renting a three-bedroom apartment outside of the city is approximately US$107.
What are the Market Prices in Antalya?
People frequently travel to markets for fruit, vegetables, and other items that may be purchased here since costs are far cheaper than in supermarkets, allowing them to save money on their largest monthly spend. Furthermore, the items are fresher and of higher quality.
US$0.26 for one kilo of oranges/ Tomatoes cost US$0.28 per kilo. / US$0.20 per kilo of potatoes/ US$0.18 for one kg of onion/ US$0.23 for a regular lettuce/ US$0.77 for a box of 12 eggs/ US$1.84 for one kg of local cheese/ US$1.27 for one kg of chicken breast/ US$0.32 for one kg of apples/ US$0.53 for one kilo of bananas/ US$0.12 for a big bottle of mineral water/ The price of a pack of 20 Marlboro cigarettes is US$0.95/1-liter milk container US$0.23/ US$0.13 buys a loaf of fresh bread.
What are the Property Prices in Antalya?
In the city center, the price per sq meter is US$234. Outside of the city, the price per sq meter is US$177. But, since the property prices for sale in Antalya vary according to the region and the residence’s characteristics, it is impossible to give an exact figure for house prices. The wishes and needs of the buyers also directly affect the price. In this direction; Those who want to buy a detached house or flat for sale in Antalya should search for detailed prices. However, in terms of housing prices, Antalya can be among the most affordable and economical cities in Turkey.
What are the Transportation Costs in Antalya?
Those who choose to travel by automobile in Antalya must consider the expense of purchasing and maintaining a vehicle, as well as the relatively low cost of gasoline. The most cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation in this area is public transportation.
A one-way ticket inside the city is US$0.19 / Taxi fare for one kilometer is US$0.19 / the price of one liter of gasoline is US$0.45. A Toyota Corolla for people who prefer getting a car is an example of the pricing in the car market. It costs US$7.313.
What are the Utility Expenses in Antalya?
Newcomers should be aware that in Antalya, rent does not include utility bills. You will not need much money to maintain the property all year and cover all of the services, because utility rates are not exorbitant, even though they fluctuate with the seasons.
The monthly cost of living for a household of four (excluding rent) is about US$492 which is a lower case and is very good compared to other countries/cities.
How Much Money do you Spend on Entertainment?
Outdoor activities are inexpensive and widely available here, and the weather permits people to spend their free time outside. For individuals who prefer to exercise indoors, there are a variety of low-cost fitness facilities as well as tennis courts. If you enjoy going to the movies, you will be pleased with the inexpensive ticket rates.
Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Antalya does not charge exorbitant rates for designer clothing, as is common in many other tourist destinations. On the contrary, the costs are lower than in the majority of Turkish large cities, and individuals with ordinary incomes will be able to buy them.
Antalya boasts a wide range of shopping options, from apparel and gadgets to food and beverages. Given the low cost of living in Antalya, there are numerous shopping malls to visit, with practically everything in the most luxurious state at the most cheap price. Every neighborhood has a hypermarket.
Antalya’s multifunctional retail centers can fulfill all of your demands, from shopping to entertainment. The majority of them even have movie theaters and cinemas. They can also provide spiritual nourishment. Fitness Center, Tennis court rent is US$15.35 per month for one adult (1 hour on the weekend), US$7.21 for a movie ticket to an international release, with a single seat costing US$2.95.
How Much does Healthcare Cost?
Antalya is well recognized as a tourist destination, but it also has a strong medical reputation. This city’s medicine and medical treatment are of the highest quality. So much so that many individuals go from other nations to receive safe, up-to-date, and, of course, low-cost therapy. Antalya is no exception to this norm, and you will recall the city’s medical services in every manner.
6 days of cold medication (Tylenol, frenadol, coldrex, or equivalent brands) US$1.24, 1 antibiotics box (12 doses), and US$1.61 for visit to a private doctor for a short period (15 minutes).
Do You Have to Pay Taxes in Turkey?
There is a council tax, which generally amounts to a few hundred dollars each year. It is required to get earthquake insurance, which is calculated based on the size of your property; you will also most likely want household insurance to protect personal belongings in the case of loss, damage, or theft.
Council tax is US$200 per year, depending on the holders of your title documents and the price bracket of your home. The estimated tax on $100,000 is $35,000.
What are the Features of Antalya?
One of Antalya’s most enticing features is that it maintains its ancient appearance while remaining modern and touristy. If you walk around the city and look at the tourist attractions, for example, you’ll discover that many of the older attractions are free and open to the public.
In addition, the weather in Antalya is warm and Mediterranean in the summer and mild in the winter, which lasts only three months. You may enjoy the outdoors for nine months of the year. The environment of Antalya is also recommended for the treatment of osteoarthritis and skin conditions.
Due to its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and extensive collection of notable historical landmarks, Antalya is one of Turkey’s most popular vacation destinations. There’s never a bad time to visit this wonderful city on the country’s magnificent Turquoise Coast because it’s a year-round destination with bright, sunny summers and pleasant winters.
The number of overseas property buyers reflects the expanding attractiveness of the market. Antalya, Turkey’s second-biggest real estate market, draws visitors from all over the globe. Vacation homes, permanent residences, buy-to-let rental properties, and sound real estate investments are all on their wish list.
Many foreigners choose Antalya to join Turkey’s citizenship by investment program, and the region’s thriving ex-pat community of thousands lives here all year.
The majority of visitors come to the state-of-the-art airport, which also acts as Turkey’s main tourist air travel hub. Its geographical location benefits from short transfer times to places like Belek, Kemer, and the popular tourist beach resorts of Lara Beach and Konyaalti, thanks to year-round international flights. Apart from that, Antalya is a prominent sailing hub and is located on Turkey’s D400 highway, which runs east to west, making it easy to travel there by road or water.
Turkey’s different climate zones vary widely, and if you’re looking for scorching summers and mild winters, Antalya is the place to go. While the wet months of January and February make outdoor activities difficult, the rest of the year has an average of 300 days of sunlight. The hottest months, July and August, saw temperatures in the mid-40s, highlighting the area’s appeal as a vacation spot.
The region features 600 kilometers of coastline, which includes lovely sandy beaches, hidden coves, and peaceful harbors, but don’t think of them as ordinary Mediterranean Sea beaches. In Trip Advisor’s annual ranking of Turkey’s greatest beaches, Cleopatra’s, Konyaalti, Lara, Kaputas, and Patara usually appear in the top ten.
Antalya has a lot to offer, including some of the best nightlife and shopping in the Mediterranean. Traditional weekly markets provide fruits and vegetables, souvenirs, clothing, household goods, and other commodities, as well as massive retail malls that rival those in the United States. As seen in sit-down roof patio bars, beach dining restaurants, and big nightclubs with famous DJs, nightlife ranges from tranquil to fast-paced.
Ancient ruins like Aspendos, Phaselis, Myra, Alanya’s red tower and fortress, Kekova submerged remains, and others may be found in Antalya. Water parks, museums, open spaces, the world-famous Aquarium, and a cable car ride up Mount Tahtali are just a few of the attractions. Not to mention Kaleici’s old town, with its attractive combination of Ottoman buildings, medieval mosques, towering clock tower, and magnificent Hadrian’s gate.
Natural beauty provides the perfect picture-postcard backdrop for photographers and recreation enthusiasts. For starters, waterfalls are big business, with places like upper and lower Duden, Kursunlu, and Manavgat all offering tours. The Taurus mountain range is also home to the Koprulu Canyon, a famous adventure and trekking destination, as well as the Damlatas cave and the Dim River.
In Belek, Turkey’s golfing capital, great players have competed. When the G20 summit was held in Belek, Tiger Woods and Barack Obama were among the attendees. Nick Faldo and other well-known figures designed Cornelia and other courses. Belek, along with Spain and Portugal, is now considered one of the top golfing destinations in the world.
The Lycian Way, Turkey’s longest walking path, begins in Antalya. It features archaeological and historical sites dating back to the Lycian empire and spans the entire shoreline. Because it spans 500 kilometers to Fethiye, most people do it in sections. Otherwise, if you want to take the trip all at once, campgrounds along the way allow overnight reservations.
Adrenaline junkies can look forward to a diverse choice of activities. Scuba diving is popular, and schools attract inexperienced and first-time divers because they offer test dives and teaching. Paragliding in Kas, a small yet picturesque village, or white water rafting in Koprulu Canyon are two options. Parasailing and Jet Ski rentals are available at most coastal water sports locations. Visit Ucagiz to go sea kayaking over the buried remnants of Kekova or to join up for expert-led canyoning and mountain biking tours.
There are a variety of cities and villages to select from, each offering something unique, whether you want to stay for the night or move here. Side offers authentic vibes, whereas Kemer offers beach vibes, Kalkan offers an elite lifestyle, and Kas offers nostalgic themes. Cirali and Olympus, however, provide solitude and quiet, while Alanya, which is growing in popularity, is an all-arounder.
Its appeal stems primarily from its versatility, as it excels at everything. The distinction is evident in many aspects of life, from nightlife to travel to fashion, and it appeals to both luxury visitors and ex-pats. Antalya caters to people of all ages and professions, so it doesn’t matter how old or young you are. It’s simple to find a destination that suits your lifestyle. Turkish culture is rich in hospitality, but Antalya is known for its award-winning hotels, which have been highlighted in international tourism publications.
This blue coastline makes up a large chunk of Turkey’s Riviera. Unlike its analogs in other countries, like France, the Rivera features small towns, villages, and historic monuments. For international boats sailing these waters, Antalya, a famous sailing center, is a popular destination. Those searching for a quiet day cruise along the coast should travel to harbors that see off boats every morning in the summer.
In some districts where supply exceeds demand and land for construction is unavailable, budget and first-time purchasers, as well as real estate speculators, are driven to discount pricing. This offers a lot of potential for anyone looking for a medium to long-term investment with a time horizon of at least seven years to optimize their financial gains.
The real estate market allows you to turn bricks and mortar into hard cash at record speed due to its ongoing activity. The region has an active Turkish client base as well as an international one due to the high liquidity. Individuals from all over the world buy in the area.
The Best Places to Visit in Antalya?
There is something for everyone in Antalya. Organize your vacation with our list of the best Antalya tourist attractions.
- Old Town (Kaleici): The winding streets of Kaleici were designed for walking. The cobblestone lanes are lined with perfectly restored whitewashed and red-roofed Ottoman houses, which are now home to a multitude of boutique hotels, souvenir stores, art galleries, and restaurants.
- Old Harbor: Antalya’s ancient harbor is a beautiful cluster of boutiques, charming cafés, bazaars, and gently floating yachts that stare out over the sparkling Mediterranean, nestled into a depression in the cliffs.
- Museum of Antalya: If you have any interest in Turkish history, you should not miss this great museum. The stunning exhibitions here feature all of the greatest discoveries from excavation sites around the Turkish coast.
- The Yivli Minare: It is Antalya’s most recognizable feature, built by Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad (1219-36). The minaret is a classic Seljuk structure, having a square base surmounted by an octagonal drum carrying the fluted shaft and a corbelled gallery around the top. The 14th-century mosque connected to the building is still in use today. The minaret is located just next to the Kale entry gate into the ancient city.
- Perge: Perge’s large and rubble-filled stadium, half-destroyed temples, and massive colonnaded agora exude a sense of bygone greatness. This was the ancient Pamphylian capital, which flourished under Greek and subsequently Roman control.
- Olympos and Cirali: About 84 kilometers southwest of Antalya, the near-twin towns of Olympos and Cirali are located on a magnificent stretch of beach amid the overgrown ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Olympos.
- Konyaalti Beach: Located east of Antalya’s town center, Konyaalti Beach is one of the city’s two ideal stretches of sand, with a magnificent backdrop of mountains sloping down to the coast beyond. During the summer, this pebbly-sandy strip is quite popular with both local and foreign visitors, and leisurely beach days are made easier by the abundance of services available.
- Karst Springs: Karst springs, sinkholes, and waterfalls abound in the limestone region surrounding Antalya. The lime deposits from these springs have built up over 1.5 to two million years to form enormous travertine terraces comparable to the renowned Pamukkale terraces.
- Lara Beach: To the south of Antalya’s downtown, Lara Beach is famous for its smooth white sand and superb family-friendly amenities, supported by cafés and restaurants, and with lots of activities, from jet-ski rentals to stand-up inflatable kayaks for those who want to get out on the water.
- The Karain Cave: in Dösemalti, some 27 kilometers northwest of Antalya, was inhabited by prehistoric man and has provided artifacts from both the Lower and Middle Paleolithic eras. Bones and teeth from Neolithic man have been discovered here. Some of the discoveries are on display at the modest but very extensive museum on-site.
- Phaselis: Alexander the Great established his winter quarters in 334 BC in the historic Lycian harbor of Phaselis, some 60 kilometers southwest of Antalya. There are ruins of a theater, an aqueduct, temples, a colonnaded roadway, and a Hadrian’s Arch Gate, which was built in AD 114. The ruins’ beachfront location is lovely, and an on-site museum shows unearthed treasures.
- The Koprulu River: If you’re searching for things to do in Antalya, the Koprulu Canyon National Park (also readily accessible from the Side) is one of Turkey’s most popular white water rafting locations, with the green-blue water of the Koprulu River winding between spectacular and rugged high cliffs.
Is It Safe to Live in Antalya?
Yes, Antalya is a safe place to live in.
With a low crime rate and a safety rating of 74.5 %, Antalya is a highly secure place to visit. Nonetheless, you should take the same precautions you would in any other city.
Safety walking alone during daylight: 88.51 – Very high
Safety walking alone during the night: 74.50 – High
What Clothes do You Need to Live in Antalya?
You can wear whatever you like here, but decency and modesty are always welcome. It is also a Muslim city, thus some modesty may be necessary. Here are some outfit ideas:
In the spring and fall, women should bring a thick jacket or a windbreaker because the wind can be chilly. Long skirts and half-sleeve tops, as well as khaki and linen pants, are great for hot summer days. A heavy coat or a woolen sweater might suffice in the winter. You may be denied access to a mosque if you wear flashy or revealing clothing.
Men’s clothing Bermuda shorts and shorts are excellent for both the beach and the streets. Jeans and t-shirts are suitable almost anywhere, although, for mosques and more formal settings, a collared shirt and pants are recommended. Consider a casual leather jacket or a well-fitted blazer, as well as several woolen sweaters, for winter attire.
For children, shorts and tank tops should be saved for the beach. Wear a half-sleeved t-shirt with jeans or trousers in the city. Nothing too short or too dazzling should be brought. A light jacket or a windbreaker might suffice in mild weather. Tunics can be worn with warm leggings and layered with a shrug or cardigan. During the winter, thick woolen coats would be required.
How are the People of Antalya?
It is worth noting that the inhabitants are quite kind, courteous, and welcoming. When talking with new acquaintances, they pay close attention to a newcomer’s manners and how well a person knows the norms of etiquette.
It is advised that travelers learn at least a few Turkish phrases before traveling to Turkey. A few sentences in their original language may make the locals quite friendly, and they will be delighted to assist a courteous traveler interested in their country’s culture.
Store employees will almost probably try to persuade passers-by to buy a cup of coffee. Customers will be informed about the most exciting things and given recommendations for the city’s best restaurants and shopping areas while they enjoy the savory drink. A host may become irritated if visitors ignore such an invitation, so pay attention to a friendly merchant and remember to thank him for his warm welcome.
Not forgetting to note that the province of Antalya has a literacy rate of 99%. Antalya province ranks first out of 81 Turkish provinces, with 99% of the population over the age of six literate (reading and writing).
What is the Historical Importance of Antalya?
Antalya has a 6,000-year history, with parts of it well preserved and some of it not. Archaeological sites and Antalya’s gorgeous old town are testaments to a bygone era. Moreover, different relics of ancient and ottoman culture, as well as modern Turkish culture, may be found in the surrounding area.
The most often repeated and well-known account of Antalya’s history is that the city was built in the Hellenistic period, about 150 BCE, by Attalos II, King of Pergamon. The city was then known as Attalia, after its founder. This term got corrupted through time and is today known as Antalya.
In one way or another, Attalos II served the city well, developing it and establishing it as his kingdom’s primary port. Antalya, on the other hand, did not remain under Pergamon’s authority for long. The final monarch of this state died in 133 BCE, surrendering his realm to Rome in his testament.
Antalya grew into an important Roman city around this time, attracting numerous traders and travelers. St. Paul of Tarsus was the most renowned person who visited there around the beginning of the first millennium CE. The freshly plotted walking track commemorates his trip from the northern area known as Pisidia to the port of Antalya.
Many churches were built in Antalya, a city with the rank of a bishopric, during the Byzantine period. Among these structures is the church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which was later turned into a mosque and is today known as the Broken Minaret. It is situated in Kaleiçi’s historic neighborhood, towering over the harbor since Roman times.
Antalya became the subject of Arab raids in the 7th century, while also gaining strategic significance as a military stronghold defending Asia Minor’s southern shore. The city was the capital of the Byzantine military region known as the Cibyrrhaeots during the time.
Following the era of Arab invasions, a new threat loomed over the territories of Asia Minor in the form of Seljuk Turks, who arrived from the east and progressively dominated this area. Antalya was seized by Seljuk soldiers at the end of the 11th century, but they were forced to flee. Because of the political conditions established by the First Crusade, Byzantine sovereignty over the city was restored.
However, in 1118, Antalya was surrounded by territory controlled by local Seljuk warriors. Its only link to the Byzantine realms was via maritime channels. Finally, the city was captured by the Turks at the beginning of the 13th century.
Following the Fourth Crusade’s sacking and conquest of Constantinople, Antalya was briefly taken by the Italians but quickly recovered to the Seljuks. They established the city as the capital of Teke Beylik (a small ancestral kingdom). For 12 years in the second part of the 14th century, Peter I of Cyprus, the Christian monarch of Cyprus and titular king of Jerusalem, ruled over Antalya.
Sultan Murad II brought Antalya into the Ottoman Empire in 1423. From the 15th through the early twentieth centuries, the city maintained its multiethnic character. Antalya has four Greek neighborhoods, among others. According to the Turkish explorer Evliya Celebi, the city had three thousand homes in the second part of the 17th century, and its size surpassed the old fortifications.
Antalya was held by Italian soldiers from the conclusion of World War I until 1923. The city had 30,000 people at the time. Following the Turkish Republic’s resumption of authority over Antalya, the city’s ethnic makeup changed dramatically. The Greeks who had resided here for generations were relocated to Greece, and their place was taken by Turks from the Balkans and the Caucasus.
Until the early 1970s, the town was mostly an agricultural and fishing community. However, Antalya has evolved dramatically since then, owing in part to the tourism boom.
The most notable Seljuk and Ottoman buildings in Antalya may be found in Kaleici and its surroundings. If you just have a few hours in the city, you may spend them wandering through the tiny alleyways, seeing old mosques, and admiring the massive ramparts with the famous Hadrian’s Gate.
Give particular attention to the city’s most prominent emblem, the Fluted Minaret (tr. Yivli Minare), as well as the remains of the Broken Minaret (Kesik Minare) and Hidirlik Tower. Visit Karaaliolu Park and the Roman harbor at the foot of Kaleici, which are also close.
The Archaeological Museum in Antalya, located on the city’s western side, is a must-see for anybody interested in historical events. This museum is one of Turkey’s best, and the artifacts in its exhibits will keep you entertained for hours. The Ataturk House (Ataturk Evi ve Muzesi), the Ethnographic Museum within the Fluted Minaret Mosque complex, and a private museum called Suna Inan Kirac Kaleici Muzesi are among the other museums in Antalya.
The equestrian statue of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, which stands on Republic Square, and a monument commemorating the city’s founder, King Attalos II of Pergamon, which stands in front of the Clock Tower, are two of the city’s most renowned sculptures. In the city center, there are several contemporary sculptures depicting various personalities, such as a tea delivery worker, a cleaner, and children at play. The 2. Inonu Sokak, also known as Umbrella Street because of the enormous number of multi-colored umbrellas that line the street, is a gorgeous alley where tourists flock to take photographs.
The historical sights of Perge, Termessos, Sillyon, and Aspendos, as well as the Karain Cave, are all easily accessible from Antalya. The well-known Lycian Way hiking path, which runs over the Taurus Mountains from Antalya to Fethiye, begins in Antalya and concludes in Fethiye. The St. Paul hiking trail also begins near Antalya. From Perge to Yalvac, northeast of Lake Egirdir, there is a well-marked trail. The second leg of the journey starts in Aspendos and connects to the first in Adad, where the ruins of a Roman city can still be found. The entire race is over 500 kilometers long. The route is largely based on the Apostle Paul’s first missionary journey across Asia Minor.
What is the Location of Antalya?
Antalya, also known as Ancient Greek Attalia, is a city in southern Turkey with a Mediterranean Seaport. It’s on the Antalya Gulf.
Antalya, on Anatolia’s thriving southwest coast and bordered by the Taurus Mountains, is the largest Turkish city on the Mediterranean coast, with a demographic of over one million people.
What is the Best Region to Live in Antalya?
Kalkan is the most livable and beautiful district of Antalya with its regions that offer a different life. Kalkan, a district of Antalya, consists of several neighborhoods with their characteristics. Ortaalan, the first district, is the newly established part of Kalkan. This place has popular real estate options for those who want to make their first investment. On the other hand, those who prefer slightly lively neighborhoods can usually move to Kalkan’s Kalamar region. This area has recently gained a reputation for its beach clubs and vibrant nightlife. Finally, Kıziltas, which is a little far from the district, is a magnificent place with its view and villas.
What is the Population of Antalya?
Antalya, Turkey has a population of 945,049 persons in 2020-2021. Its population is predicted to be 2.548 million, with a population density of 119,887 ppl/km2, 13 % of elderly residents, 35% of youthful residents, and 52% of middle-aged residents. In addition, there is a balanced gender split, with 50% men and 50 % women.
What are the Best Districts to Live in Antalya?
Antalya is regarded as one of the finest cities for investment after Istanbul, and in certain cases is seen as better than Istanbul. Away from large projects and the hustle and bustle of larger cities, there is a great demand for buying property in Antalya.
From the quiet village of Cirali to the bustling hub of Alanya, anyone looking to relocate will find a place that fits their lifestyle preferences. So, what are the most popular areas for living in Antalya as an ex-pat? Here is a list of the best areas in Antalya.
- Konyaalti is split into seven districts. Foreigners’ favorite districts are Hurma, Liman, and the Sarisu triangle. Antalya’s western region. Many foreigners reside here permanently. Antalya city center is 7 kilometers away. The beach is 1-3.5 kilometers away.
- Muratpasa, Antalya’s center comprises the historical center of Antalya – Kaleici – as well as the popular areas of Lara and Kundu. While Kaleici is known for its small boutique hotels and cottages, the remainder of the city center is a jumble of offices, stores, restaurants, and so on. Antalya’s center is where the people live. Lara is the name given to the area east of Antalya.
- Kepez is located in northern Antalya. It covers a vast area. Kepez, which is located some distance from the shore, offers relatively affordable real estate rates. Kepez is home to the upper Duden waterfall.
- While Kalkan is a lesser-known part of the greater Antalya area, it is home to a tiny population of foreigners who enjoy it. The community is unique in that the majority of homes for sale and rent are huge all-inclusive villas.
- Belek is the Antalya sporting hub, while it is a lesser-known part of the greater Antalya area, it is home to a tiny population of foreigners who enjoy it. The community is unique in that the majority of homes for sale and rent are huge all-inclusive villas.