Tourism

Welcome to Antalya, the vibrant heart of the Turkish Riviera and the undisputed capital of Turkish tourism. This is a unique region where the dazzling turquoise sea meets the majestic Taurus Mountains, and where millennia of history are woven into the fabric of modern life.

Each year, millions of visitors from across the globe are drawn to Antalya’s golden beaches, world-class resorts, and remarkably preserved ancient cities. Beyond the coast, you will discover stunning waterfalls, adventurous canyons, and a rich culinary culture.

While you are here for the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals, we invite you to explore the wonders of our city and experience the legendary Turkish hospitality that makes this destination truly unforgettable.

Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi) The heart of Antalya, featuring historic narrow streets, traditional Ottoman-era houses with bay windows, Hadrian’s Gate, and a picturesque yacht harbour.

Side Ancient City (Side Antik Kenti) Located very close to Manavgat, this ancient port city is a must-see with its magnificent Temple of Apollo and a well-preserved Roman theatre.

Manavgat Waterfall (Manavgat Şelalesi) The region’s most famous natural beauty. It is a popular spot where visitors can cool off and relax by the refreshing, cascading waters.

Aspendos Ancient Theatre One of the best-preserved Roman-era theatres in the world. A fascinating structure, renowned for its incredible acoustics and stunning architecture.

Köprülü Canyon National Park A national park offering spectacular scenery for those seeking adventure, white-water rafting, and nature hikes through the beautiful canyon.

Beyond the historic sites, the Antalya region offers a wide array of activities to enrich your stay.

Boat Trips Escape for a day on the water with a relaxing boat trip, a popular local experience. You can take a tranquil cruise along the Manavgat River or set sail from the historic harbours of Side and Alanya to discover hidden coves and enjoy a day of swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.

Local Bazaars & Shopping Experience the vibrant local culture by visiting the traditional bazaars in Manavgat and Side. Here, you can browse for authentic goods like fragrant spices, colourful textiles, and unique handmade crafts. For a modern shopping experience, the city of Antalya offers several large shopping malls featuring international and Turkish brands.

Turkish Bath (Hamam) For a truly authentic and rejuvenating experience, consider visiting a traditional Turkish Bath, or “Hamam”. This centuries-old ritual of cleansing and massage is a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of competition.

Beaches of the Region The Antalya coastline is world-famous for its stunning Blue Flag beaches. Some of the most celebrated spots include the legendary Cleopatra Beach in Alanya, the expansive Konyaaltı Beach with its dramatic mountain backdrop in Antalya, the luxurious sands of Lara Beach, and the convenient, historic public beaches in Side.

Turkish cuisine is a vast and flavourful tapestry woven from centuries of history. While you are in Antalya, you will have the perfect opportunity to taste not only fresh Mediterranean specialties but also beloved traditional dishes from all across Türkiye, many of which are pictured above.What to Eat: A Culinary Journey

• Starters & Mezes (Mezeler): Begin your meal like a local with a warm bowl of Mercimek Çorbası (lentil soup). Share a plate of classic mezes like Yaprak Sarma (stuffed grape leaves) or the famous stuffed bulgur shells known as İçli Köfte. Don’t forget to try Antalya’s unique specialty, Piyaz, a bean salad served with a rich tahini sauce.
  
  
• Main Courses: Türkiye is famous for its grilled meats. Sample various kebabs or try Izgara Köfte (grilled meatballs). For a taste of Anatolian dough craft, try Lahmacun, a thin, crispy Turkish-style pizza. Also, don’t miss out on comforting “home-style” dishes like Biber Dolma (stuffed peppers). As you’re on the coast, fresh grilled seafood is always an excellent choice.
  
  
• Desserts: For a classic regional dessert, Tahinli Kabak Tatlısı (candied pumpkin with tahini and walnuts) is a unique and delicious treat.
  
  

Turkish Coffee & Tea Culture

In Türkiye, coffee and tea are more than just beverages; they are central to social life and hospitality. You will likely be offered a small, tulip-shaped glass of strong black tea (çay) as a sign of welcome wherever you go. After a meal, savoring a rich Turkish coffee (Türk kahvesi) is a cherished ritual, offering a moment for conversation and relaxation.

To help make your stay as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here is some practical information about visiting the Antalya region.

Weather in October October is one of the most pleasant times to visit Antalya. You can expect plenty of sunshine and warm days, with average temperatures typically ranging from 20-26°C (68-79°F). Evenings can be cooler, so we recommend packing light clothing like t-shirts and shorts for the daytime, along with a light jacket, sweater, or sweatshirt for the evenings. Don’t forget your sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen!

Currency & Payments The official currency of Türkiye’s is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, we recommend carrying some cash for smaller purchases at local markets (bazaars), cafes, and for taxis. ATMs and currency exchange offices (“Döviz”) are readily available throughout the city and at the airports.

Basic Turkish Phrases While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Turkish phrases will be greatly appreciated by the locals.

• Merhaba (Mer-ha-ba) – Hello
• Teşekkür ederim (Te-shek-kur e-der-im) – Thank you
• Lütfen (Loot-fen) – Please
• Evet / Hayır (Ev-et / Ha-yir) – Yes / No
• Günaydın (Goon-ay-din) – Good morning
• İyi akşamlar (Ee-yee ak-sham-lar) – Good evening

Emergency Number In case of any emergency—medical, fire, or police—the single, unified emergency number in Türkiye is 112. This number is free to call 24/7 from any phone.