Best Day Trips from Antalya, Turkey (2025)

Located just 15 kilometres east of Antalya, the ancient city of Perge is one of the most accessible and fascinating historical sites in the region. Once the capital of Pamphylia Secunda, Perge dates back to around 1000 BC and later became a prosperous Roman city. The ruins today give a powerful sense of scale, with a grand colonnaded street, Roman baths, a stadium that once held 12,000 spectators, and the remains of an intricate water system that once supplied the city’s fountains and homes.

The ancient theatre and agora (marketplace) are among the highlights, showcasing the craftsmanship and architectural prowess of the Roman era. Visitors can wander freely among the ruins, taking in the carved marble gates, mosaic fragments, and statues that once adorned temples and civic buildings. Perge also has a strong connection to early Christianity — it’s believed that St. Paul preached here on his missionary journeys.

Because of its proximity to the city, Perge makes an easy half-day trip and is often combined with visits to Aspendos or the nearby Kursunlu Waterfalls. It’s a peaceful site, surrounded by fields and hills, and one of the must-see places in Antalya for history enthusiasts who want to step back into the ancient world.

Just 45 minutes from Antalya, Aspendos is home to one of the most remarkably preserved Roman theatres in existence. Built in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the theatre could hold up to 15,000 people and is still used today for concerts and performances thanks to its superb acoustics. Standing inside, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient audiences cheering beneath the Anatolian sun.

Aside from the theatre, the site also includes the remnants of a basilica, aqueduct, and stadium, hinting at Aspendos’ importance as a regional centre of trade and culture. The aqueduct, with its towering arches, was a masterpiece of ancient engineering that supplied the city with water from the mountains. Many visitors take time to explore the nearby countryside, where olive groves and citrus trees frame the ruins beautifully.

Aspendos can easily be visited on the same day as Perge or Side, making it a highlight for travellers following the trail of Antalya’s Roman past. For culture lovers, attending a live concert or opera here under the stars is a truly unforgettable experience — one that captures the essence of Turkey’s timeless connection between history and art.

About an hour east of Antalya lies Side, an ancient port city perched on a small peninsula surrounded by turquoise water. Founded by Greek settlers in the 7th century BC, Side became one of the most important trade centres of Pamphylia, famous for its temples, amphitheatre, and harbour. The city’s most photographed sites are the Temple of Apollo and the Temple of Athena, whose marble columns glow golden at sunset — a magical sight that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Walking through Side feels like stepping into a living museum. The Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in Asia Minor, once seated 15,000 spectators and remains a commanding sight. Scattered throughout the town are fragments of ancient baths, city walls, and a nymphaeum (fountain), blending seamlessly with modern cafés and shops. It’s this blend of antiquity and modern seaside life that makes Side so special.

Today, the town is a charming resort area with boutique hotels, seafood restaurants, and sandy beaches — perfect for combining culture and relaxation. Side is one of the best places to go on a day trip from Antalya, offering a full experience of history, coastal beauty, and Mediterranean hospitality in just one outing.

High in the Taurus Mountains, 35 kilometres northwest of Antalya, lies Termessos — a hidden gem unlike any other ancient site in Turkey. Built by the Pisidians over 2,000 years ago, the city was carved directly into the rocky slopes of Mount Solymos, offering breathtaking views across the surrounding forests. Its remote, elevated position made it nearly impossible to conquer; even Alexander the Great failed to take it in 333 BC.

The ruins, now part of Termessos National Park, are scattered through pine-covered hills and connected by ancient stone pathways. Visitors can explore the theatre perched dramatically on a cliff, with views stretching to the sea, as well as temples, tombs, and city walls that nature has quietly reclaimed. The sense of solitude and mystery here is palpable — a stark contrast to the bustling coastal sites.

Reaching Termessos involves a steep hike, but the effort is well rewarded. It’s ideal for adventurers and history lovers alike, offering both natural beauty and a glimpse into a civilization that thrived in isolation. Among the top attractions near Antalya, Termessos remains one of the most atmospheric and memorable.

Located about three hours from Antalya, Pamukkale is one of Turkey’s most iconic natural wonders. Its white travertine terraces, created by calcium-rich hot springs cascading down the hillside, have earned it the nickname “the Cotton Castle.” The sight of the shimmering terraces against the blue sky is surreal — a true geological masterpiece that feels otherworldly.

Above the terraces lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, founded by the Phrygians and later expanded by the Romans as a spa city. Visitors can explore the ruins of its vast necropolis, ancient theatre, and thermal baths that once drew people from across the empire seeking healing in its waters. The site also includes Cleopatra’s Pool, where you can swim among submerged marble columns.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis are best visited on a guided day trip from Antalya, as the journey is long but rewarding. It’s one of the best places to go on a day trip from Antalya, combining natural beauty and ancient history in one unforgettable experience.

Situated about an hour southwest of Antalya, the ancient Lycian city of Phaselis combines history and beachside relaxation in one stunning location. Founded in the 7th century BC, the city served as a major port and trading hub between Asia and the Mediterranean. Today, visitors can wander along its ancient stone streets, lined with Roman arches, bathhouses, and aqueducts, all surrounded by pine forests and crystal-clear waters.

Phaselis is divided into three harbours, each offering calm, sheltered bays perfect for swimming and picnicking. The combination of ancient ruins and turquoise water makes it a favourite stop for boat tours and independent travellers alike. Bring a towel and swimsuit — few places in Turkey let you swim among ancient ruins quite like this.

Because of its easy accessibility from Antalya and peaceful atmosphere, Phaselis is ideal for travellers seeking a relaxed, scenic day trip. It’s one of the must-see places in Antalya, offering a perfect mix of culture, nature, and seaside charm.

For thrill-seekers and nature lovers, Köprülü Canyon National Park offers an exhilarating escape just 90 kilometres from Antalya. The canyon, carved by the Köprüçay River, stretches for 14 kilometres through steep cliffs and pine forests, creating a playground for outdoor adventures. White-water rafting is the park’s main draw, with rapids suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Beyond rafting, visitors can hike scenic trails, explore ancient bridges, or enjoy a riverside picnic under the trees. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including mountain goats and eagles, adding to its sense of untouched wilderness. The combination of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activity makes it one of the top sights near Antalya for those seeking adventure.

Whether you come for rafting, hiking, or photography, Köprülü Canyon delivers a memorable day immersed in Turkey’s stunning landscapes. Local operators offer full-day tours that include transport, equipment, and lunch, making it easy to experience this natural wonder.

Just outside Antalya, the Düden Waterfalls provide a refreshing change of pace from the city. The Upper Düden Falls, surrounded by lush greenery, are located about 15 kilometres inland and feature cool caves and shaded walking paths. Closer to the coast, the Lower Düden Falls cascade dramatically off a cliff directly into the Mediterranean Sea — one of the most spectacular natural sights in the area.

Kurşunlu Waterfall, located 20 kilometres northeast of the city, offers a more tranquil experience. Hidden within a pine forest, its gentle cascades and turquoise pools make it a favourite for picnics and nature walks. Both Düden and Kurşunlu are easily accessible and can be visited in a half day.

These waterfalls are among the things to do in Antalya that appeal to all ages. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect shot or simply looking for a peaceful escape, they provide a glimpse of Antalya’s natural beauty just minutes from the city.

Suluada Island, located off the coast near Adrasan (about two hours from Antalya), is a paradise of crystal-clear waters and untouched beaches. Its name means “Water Island,” referring to the fresh springs that flow from its rocks — a rarity in this part of the Mediterranean. The island’s white pebble beaches and turquoise sea have earned it comparisons to the Maldives.

Boat tours to Suluada depart daily from Adrasan Harbour and usually include swimming stops, snorkeling opportunities, and a freshly prepared lunch on board. The journey itself is part of the experience, passing dramatic coastal cliffs and hidden coves along the way.

This is one of the best places to go on a day trip from Antalya for those seeking relaxation, swimming, and breathtaking scenery. Because it remains undeveloped, Suluada retains a wild, pristine charm that’s increasingly rare along the Turkish Riviera.

About 145 kilometres southwest of Antalya lies Demre, a small town with a big historical legacy. Known in ancient times as Myra, it was one of the key cities of the Lycian League. The town is most famous for the Church of St. Nicholas — the inspiration for Santa Claus — where the real Saint Nicholas served as bishop in the 4th century. The church features beautiful frescoes and marble sarcophagi that honour his life and legend.

Nearby, visitors can explore Myra’s stunning Lycian rock tombs carved into cliffs and its well-preserved Roman theatre. These ancient structures are set in a dramatic landscape, combining archaeology and natural beauty.

Demre is one of the top attractions near Antalya for those interested in early Christian history. The town’s serene atmosphere and historical depth make it an excellent destination for a full-day cultural trip.

A short distance from Demre, Kekova offers one of the most unique sights on Turkey’s coast — the remains of an ancient Lycian city submerged beneath the crystal-clear sea. The city was partially sunk by earthquakes during the 2nd century AD, and today you can still see submerged walls, staircases, and mosaics beneath the water’s surface.

Boat tours depart from Üçağız or Demre and sail around the island of Kekova, offering views of the ruins and stops for swimming in secluded bays. Some tours also visit the nearby Simena Castle in Kaleköy, a hilltop village accessible only by boat, which offers spectacular views of the coastline.

Kekova is one of the must-see places near Antalya, combining natural beauty, maritime history, and a sense of adventure. It’s best experienced by boat, making it a memorable finale to any journey along the Mediterranean coast.