My Journey to Antalya
How do you arrange for an ‘all-in” holiday beyond basic B&B stay? An Antalya adept, Anastassiya Belyaeva, knows.
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Anastasiya Belyaeva
Mon, 26 Jun 2023
One of my favourite seaside locations is in Turkey, off the coast of Antalya, located in the region of Side. Antalya is the major administrative province of the Mediterranean region and one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Turkey.
When one thinks of Turkey, the first thing that comes to mind is Antalya with its many sandy and rocky beaches, gentle breezes, sea, wildlife, and ancient architecture.
Nowadays, Turkey isn’t just an all-inclusive holiday destination (although this type of holiday is still very popular) it is so much more. I love the coast of Antalya for the way it makes me feel free. For more than 6 years now, I have been here at least every summer with my family and friends and we are still discovering the sea, nature and other highlights that Antalya has to offer.
Sometimes, the beach season in Antalya can last up to 7 months. Though, your visit doesn’t only have to be about swimming in the sea, you can also enjoy the warming sunshine, all sorts of fruit and vegetables and exploration.
Regardless of your purpose or mood, there are places along the coast that cater for all your needs. If you love history and are interested in ancient cities, Side, with its easily recognisable centre, will appeal to you.
The long journeys with gorgeous views of the sea, overnight stays in the wild, noisy discos, delicious savoury food, and, by contrast, modern city beaches with as many facilities as possible, waterfalls, spas and the chance to find new things on every trip - all of this is available on the Antalya coast.
Apollo's temple, the ancient theatre, the agora (marketplace) and the temple of Dionysus are the city's calling cards. Not surprisingly, these are popular tourist spots especially for those interested in photography. Local weddings often take place near the ancient city, so there's more than just tourist interest in the place..
The Roman district of Side is the ruins of an ancient city founded in the 7th century B.C. This old town has its origins in the Middle Ages. Today it is an open-air museum and is free to visit.
For those who love local food, I recommend Meşhur 49, a small family-run restaurant that the locals love not only for its portion sizes but also for the special taste of pide, lahmajuns and traditional lentil soup.
And if you find yourself in Side, you must try the grilled octopus at Elia on the promenade.
Alanya Fortress is an hour's drive from Side (and two from Antalya). Located on a 250m high rocky peninsula jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea, surrounded by it on three sides, is one of the best places to look out over the horizon, breathe in the salty sea air and make a wish..
This castle is also an open-air museum. Entry to the castle is charged, but most of the grounds can be explored for free. The castle is the final stop of bus no. 4. The ride up the mountain by bus takes about 15 minutes and it takes about 1 hour if you prefer walking. You can also take the cable car up the mountain, from Cleopatra Beach.
You have to take your time! It is important to pay attention to the details. The atmosphere is reminiscent of an oriental fairy tale. Within narrow streets, you will find small shops with the most peculiar items being sold by beguiling merchants. Their stories intermingle with the music of the sea and the sounds of birds.
The smells of spices and the glitter of souvenirs will entice you to explore further.
It is September that I love walking in this part of town the most, for the particular attentiveness of the merchants (they invite you to tea and tell you stories) and the absence of the summer tourist flow.
So how do you arrange for an all-encompassing holiday if you are interested in more than just a basic B&B stay?
Be sure to go out of the hotel
Try the seasonal fruit (especially figs in August and September).
Rent a car and drive along the coast
Spend an evening in a hammam
Try Turkish sweets
Choose Menemen for breakfast
Feed at least one cat on the coast
Listen to the sound of the sea at sunrise and sunset
Never tell people you are a tourist
Remind yourself that the best holidays consist of moments that astound us and make us even happier