If you are not sure which resort to choose for your holiday, we will tell you about each of them. Today the focus is on the Antalya coast - the most popular among Russian tourists. It is washed by the waters of the warm Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by the thick smell of pine trees.
Kemer
Based on the combination of the cleanliness of the beaches, the high level of service and the beauty of the territory, Kemer receives the highest ratings from tourists. There are not many attractions here, so choose a good hotel where you won’t get bored during your vacation.
Most hotels are located on the first line - you can enjoy the view of yachts sailing past from the windows of your room. The beaches are large-pebble, so families with children prefer the Tekirova area with small pebbles.
From Kemer you can go on an excursion to the port city of Phaselis, abundantly covered with coniferous vegetation. Kemer is also an excellent resort for divers with a sunken warship and fur seals.
Alanya
The most budget city for a holiday and the most party city on the Antalya coast. A beautiful port and a long embankment, many yachts and incredible beauty of the mountain. The resort has more young people than families and is quite noisy.
Alanya has sandy beaches and cozy bays, caves and ancient fortresses that are spectacularly illuminated at night. On weekends there is a market with local fruits and spices. But the resort has little greenery, unlike Kemer. And if you want a cleaner beach, book a hotel in the suburbs of Alanya.
You watch this video and you can’t believe that Turkey can be so beautiful!
Side
The resort is quite small, but quite busy during peak season. This is the oldest port city. Side is characterized by the romantic bustle of port life and the maximum concentration of monuments per square meter compared to other coastal resorts.
There are two beaches here - the one located to the west is more comfortable, sandy, with shallow sea. Almost all hotels have their own direct access to the beach, which does not cross the coastal road, as in other resorts in southern Turkey. It can get quite boring outside the hotel in the evenings.
Belek
This is a prestigious resort with rich flora and fauna and the largest golf center. The beaches of Belek are mostly sandy, with clear water and a smooth slope. The city has a lot of large hotels with well-developed infrastructure. And they cost much more than at the above-mentioned resorts. There are many Russian tourists and Europeans. Located near the airport.
Antalya
Antalya is practically the tourist capital of Turkey and is also the warmest resort in the country, located in a beautiful bay. It offers urban recreation - little greenery, a lot of noise, but overall quite fun. Due to the large influx of tourists, the sea and beaches (by the way, sandy) are not very clean, and often the descent into the sea is from a concrete platform. Good shopping and lots of activities outside the hotel. The airport is only 12 km away.
And in conclusion I would like to say...
Türkiye attracts us with sand and pebble beaches, short flights and a climate similar to our homeland, as well as visa-free entry and excellent infrastructure in tourist areas. On the Antalya coast, which stretches 350 km along the southern border of the peninsula, it is very hot, humid and there are no strong winds - in July the temperature reaches 32-35 degrees, but the sea is so warm!
Turkey is quite safe - you don’t have to stay in a hotel all the time. Each town has both modern building blocks and a beautiful Old Town with ancient monuments and parks. In the resorts of the southern coast of Turkey there are many family-type hotels with separate mini-clubs for children aged one year and older. On the plus side, almost everyone speaks Russian, and girls don’t have to be afraid to wear immodest clothes.
This is a country of contrasts - while swimming in water at the temperature of fresh milk, you see a mountain range with snow caps. And comfortable, and cheap, and very beautiful!
Pilgrimages
03 September 14 Unknown
A great shrine and simply an incredibly interesting historical monument!
Nicholas the Wonderworker, Nicholas of Myra, St. Nicholas, Santa Claus - perhaps St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is the most famous Christian saint in the whole world. Surprisingly, the main Temple named after him is not in Israel, not in Italy, not in Russia, but in Muslim Turkey.
Today this Temple is not active, it is considered a museum. And I can say for sure that both Christian believers (this is truly a great shrine) and representatives of other religions or atheists should get there - the place is very ancient, historically rich and incredibly interesting.
Let me first tell you how to get there. This is very easy to do - you can buy the most common excursion on the Antalya coast, Demre-Mira-Kekova, one of the points of which is a visit to the Temple of St. Nicholas. We took an excursion from the travel agency Ginza Travel, they picked us up directly from the Mirada del Mar hotel (Kemer), it cost $35 (if you go on your own, but entrance to the temple costs $10).
A little history. Nicholas the Wonderworker is an absolutely real historical figure, he was born around 270 AD. e. on the territory of modern Turkey near the city of Demre (formerly the city of Mira). In those days it was the Roman province of Lycia, which is why Nicholas is also called Myra. Around 300 he became bishop of the city of Myra, where he lived until his death.
The Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker will surprise you with its appearance. The structure is very ancient (the first building was back in the 4th century, and the one that we can see today dates back to the 8th century), in places it looks more like ruins than a church, and from the outside it’s generally difficult to tell that this is a temple.
However, inside this place is absolutely amazing - frescoes and paintings of the 11th and 12th centuries have been preserved here in their original form.
The floor is paved with a very interesting Lygian mosaic of various types of stone, which dates back to the 6th century.
I think you will also be amazed by the image of card suits on the walls of the temple. What are they doing here? For example, before visiting the Temple of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, I did not know that spades, hearts, diamonds and clubs are the most ancient Christian symbols, which mean, respectively: the spade with which Jesus Christ was finished off; the heart of the Savior; the heads of the nails with which he was crucified; the crucifixion itself. In the XIV century. some joker used them to create a gambling game, which is why card games are considered sinful.
Saint Nicholas after his death was buried in a marble sarcophagus in this Temple. However, in the 11th century, when the church was in danger of being plundered by the Seljuks, Italian merchants stole the relics of St. Nicholas and transported them to the city of Bari in Italy, where they are located today. To this day, the shrine is located in the temple of this Italian city. Türkiye has repeatedly declared its historical rights to the relics of Nicholas, but the Vatican ignores these statements.
Unfortunately, today there are no relics of Nicholas the Ugodnik in the sarcophagus. However, a small part of the relics is in the Archeology Museum in Antalya.
Part of the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker (including the altar) was built from the stones of the church in which he served as bishop during his lifetime.
The Russians also left their mark on this temple - in the second half of the 19th century. The ruins were bought by Russian nobles and the reconstruction of the church began. True, we began to reconstruct the church in our own way - we built an Orthodox dome - an onion)) However, it was not destined to end - another Russian-Turkish war forced the Russians to leave Demre.
Today, the Antalya coast of Turkey is one of the most visited regions by domestic tourists. Here you will find not only a great holiday, but also a harmonious combination of price and quality. The Antalya coast stretches along the coastline for 350 kilometers. From west to east along the coast there are the following famous resorts: Antalya, Kemer, Belek, Side and Alanya.
ANTALYA
Antalya is one of the main tourist centers of the Turkish Republic, in the south of the Mediterranean.
In the second century BC. King Attalus of Pergamon ordered his subjects to find the most beautiful place on earth, a real earthly paradise. After a long search, they found this piece of paradise, surrounded like a fortress by mountains. It was there that King Attalus founded the city, calling it by his own name - Attalia (in modern pronunciation Antalya).
Major resorts Antalya coast: Antalya, Kemer, Belek, Side, Alanya, Olympos, Cirali, Kas.
Antalya Park City It wraps its wide alleys around ancient quarters, combining in its atmosphere the breath of antiquity and the rhythmic pulse of a modern, busy administrative center. Today Antalya is the central city of the Antalya coast, with developed infrastructure: hotels, several water parks, a dolphinarium, huge shopping centers and a population of over one million people.
An exceptional feature of Antalya is its urban environment, so those who want to immerse themselves in the unique culture of Turkey come here: wander along the embankment, admire the famous waterfall, look at the port, go to the local Archaeological Museum, and visit shopping centers. Those tourists who are looking for a holiday in harmony with nature can choose hotels located away from Antalya, in the Lara and Kundu areas.
The Antalya coastline is heterogeneous, part of the city is located on a rocky coast, and therefore the beaches of many hotels are platforms to which tourists descend by elevator, but such hotels can offer their guests a beautiful view of the sea. In the west of the city there is an actively developing area of Konyaalti with pebble beaches, and in the east of the city there is the sandy Lara Beach, where a sufficient number of hotels with developed infrastructure are concentrated. The Aksu-Kundu region emerged relatively recently and quickly gained popularity among tourists due to its first-class prestigious hotels with spacious areas. The beach in Aksu-Kundu is sandy, and the entrance to the water is covered with small pebbles.
Antalya is also a free trade zone, a real paradise for buyers for all tastes and budgets, European boutiques, oriental bazaars, numerous shops will offer a selection of traditional jewelry, carpets, ceramics, leather goods.
Antalya opens its doors and welcomes not only tourists from all over the world, but also the annual Golden Orange Film Festival, which takes place here in the first week of October. The symbol of the film festival is oranges, which you can see from the window of a tour bus on the way to your hotel or airport.
A mixture of eras and styles, times and tastes, all this unforgettable colorful color will leave an unforgettable impression of traveling to one of the most beautiful resort cities.
Overview of the sights of the city of Antalya
Antalya has many historical monuments, which you can explore either independently or during a group sightseeing tour of the city, which has preserved traces of all twenty-two centuries of its history.
Duden Waterfall
We recommend starting your walk at the most beautiful Duden waterfall, which is located 12 km northeast of the center of Antalya. The transparent waters of the Taurus Mountains, falling from a 40-meter height, fall straight into the sea, forming a waterfall, hundreds of thousands of sea spray and, on a sunny day, a rainbow glow. You can continue the tour in the central part of Antalya, where there are no less famous and interesting sights of Turkey:
- majestic Murat Pasha Mosque 16th century, built during the Ottoman period;
— the shady alleys of Ataturk and Karaalioglu parks invite all guests of the coast to join the lively life of the capital of the Turkish Riviera;
- triumphant Arch of Hadrian, like a door to other eras, frames the beginning of a journey through the narrow streets of the old city;
— Emperor Hadrian's Gate, separate past and present, erected back in 130 AD, during antiquity, in ancient Attaleia, now they are located next to the modern part of the city - Atatürk Caddesi, in a thicket of palm and orange trees.
Emperor Hadrian's Gate
— from Republic Square, near the monument to the father of all Turks - Ataturk, there is a picturesque view of the coast near the Taurus Mountains, of the pink Yivli Minaret, built back in the 18th century, on the clock Saat Kulesi tower, which served as a defensive structure for the city in the 19th century.
Along narrow, unpretentious streets with colorful shopping arcades, groups of tourists go to embankment and port, where there are numerous motor boats, pleasure boats, and yachts, from here you can begin an exciting sea voyage around the local Mediterranean. The bustling port of the city is surrounded by an ancient embankment, on which restaurants and cafes, bars with live music and discos are comfortably located.
A little further along the coast, at the very edge of the coast, another attraction of Antalya rises above the sea - one of the smallest - Iskele stone mosque, built at the end of the 19th century. The structure rests on four columns, between which a source flows. And if you go towards the south, about a hundred steps from the Iskele Mosque, you will see an ancient and majestic building, rising on a square base, Khydirlyk Tower, built by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, it once served as a defensive tower or lighthouse.
We recommend finishing your tour of Antalya at the local Archaeological Museum, which is considered one of the best in Turkey. It houses a collection of finds from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period. Among them are the gallery of gods from Perge, Roman sarcophagi, ancient amphorae, objects from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.
Amphitheater in Aspendos
Also, when exploring the sights of the Antalya coast, we recommend taking a fascinating and educational excursion to the ancient cities of antiquity Perge and Aspendos. According to legend, Perge was founded by the heroes of the Trojan War (18 km from Antalya), the city of Lidda, Persians, Romans, and Aspendos is a city of the Greeks, founded after the Trojan War. During the walk you will be able to see the perfectly preserved Aspendos Theater (2nd century AD), an amphitheater, ruins of avenues, agora, baths, libraries, shopping arcades, temples and even a stadium. Once the places of worldly glory of the ancient Greeks and Romans, the commander Alexander the Great and the architect Zeno, today these cities are just historical objects that have preserved the spirit of their time and the centuries through which they passed. Don't miss the chance to get acquainted with the legendary history of these places - daily evening dance shows are held in Aspendos: “Anadolu Fire Show” and “Troy” Show.
Excursion to "Aqualand" or "Dedeman"
On a comfortable bus from their hotel, tourists go to the “land of water and entertainment” or “Dedeman” - this is the first water park in Turkey, built in 1993. The most popular attractions in “Dedeman”: five-meter high slides “Superkamikaze” and “Tarzan”, spiral pipes and channels 2-3 meters wide, along which you can raft in inflatable boats. Aqualand is the second largest water park in Turkey: with a large number of water slides, pools with artificial waves, a grotto and a waterfall, breathtaking attractions (Kamikaze, Black Holes, Giant Slide, boat descent, etc.). ), jacuzzi bar. Spending time here will be interesting for both adults and children of all ages. You will get a lot of positive emotions from visiting the water park in Antalya, in the Konyaalti area. Aqualand guests have access to: individual safes, showers, sun loungers, bistros, cafes, restaurants, bars and much more, which makes your stay relaxed and enjoyable.
It works with Aqualand dolphinarium There are amazing performances with dolphins and a funny seal. After the performance, you can swim in the pool with the dolphins, and also buy paintings painted by dolphins. At their request, tourists choose what exactly to visit: only the water park, only the dolphinarium, or combine two excursions together. Bring your swimwear and comfortable shoes. The duration of the excursion is about 6 hours.
Folklore evening “Turkish Night”
If you love oriental fairy tales a la “1000 and 1 Night,” you definitely need to visit the “Turkish Night” show and immerse yourself in the unique flavor of the Turkish East. In each resort region, a folklore night takes place in a specific place: it can be a luxurious palace, a 17th century inn, or simply an equipped open-air amphitheater. You will not only see original dances performed by beautiful dancers, their luxurious outfits, musical instruments, but also, at your own request, take a master class in belly dancing, take colorful photographs, admire exotic souvenirs, and try Turkish cuisine. The duration of the excursion is about 6 hours.
Shopping trip (Antalya Shop)
In Antalya, you can not only attend a cultural program, but also combine it with shopping in the local shopping centers, as well as visiting souvenir markets, leather and jewelry stores. A shopping trip can be not only by land, but also by water. In addition, for the most discerning tourists, separate transport is offered for an individual shopping trip.
Tour to Hamam (Turkish Bath)
After long excursions, a Turkish bath or hammam will come to the aid of the tourist, which owes its origin to the Romans and goes back to the word of Arabic origin “ham”, which means hot (but not like in a Russian bath or sauna, within 30-55 degrees) . A professional steam bather, dedicated to the philosophy of hammam, will perform a relaxing peeling, soapy massage, and help restore the vitality of the tourist after his long trips and travels. At the end of the bath ceremony, you can drink a cup of Turkish tea or coffee and say to each other: “Enjoy your Turkish steam!” Duration about 6 hours.
Turkish bath
Disco tour
There are many discos along the entire coast of Turkey, these can be either dance floors at hotels, or near the walls of the Castle (Khadigari), in the open air (Samer Garden, Halicarnassus) and others.
Jeep Safari
On this excursion you will be able to fully feel the spirit of adventure, excitement and travel! Typically, a Jeep Safari excursion begins early in the morning; tourists, accompanied by professional guides, are assigned to jeeps and hit the road to the mountains, where they can enjoy Turkish villages, the landscape outside the window, smell the local pristine nature, and capture interesting shots. At different resorts there are different travel routes: it can be either a trip to the foot of the Taurus or Mount Olympos, bypassing mountain passes, picturesque plains, rivers, villages, or to the Köprülü Canyon, to the National Park, where all the beauties of Turkish nature are presented, or to any other beautiful place untouched by human hands. In the evening, tired and inspired tourists return to the hotel. We recommend that you take your driver's license, swimsuit, towel, and comfortable shoes with you on your trip. The duration of the excursion is about 7 hours.
Yacht tour
Arriving in Turkey and not taking a trip along the Mediterranean or Aegean coastline, it would be a mistake. Feel free to hit the road from any resort region of Turkey, unless, of course, you get motion sickness. The cool sea breeze, the steady swaying of the waves, the majestic beauty of the mountains and the sea create a feeling of peace and relaxation. The Turks say that if you admire the panorama of the horizon for at least 15 minutes, your soul becomes light and calm. Yacht tours are organized on ships of various sizes, with a capacity of 30-40 people. This excursion also starts in the morning and lasts all day. During the walk, tourists swim, sunbathe, fish, have lunch, and take photographs. We recommend bringing a swimsuit, a towel, and comfortable shoes. The duration of the excursion is about 6 hours.
Excursion to Israel
One-day and two-day excursions to Israel. Your journey will begin early in the morning at the airport, you will fly to Tel Aviv. On the territory of Israel you will be met by Russian-speaking guides and will accompany you throughout your journey to Jerusalem. About 4 hours you will walk around the Old City, getting acquainted with the holy places of Christians, Muslims, and Jews. The program includes: a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Calvary, etc. In the second part of the excursion, after lunch, tourists go on an excursion to the Dead Sea, where they swim and, if desired, purchase mud and salt from the Dead Sea. You can stay in the sea for no more than 10 minutes during one swim, without splashing or splashing, as salt water can get into your eyes. After swimming, rinse off the salt in a nearby shower. We recommend taking swimwear with you on the excursion and wearing comfortable shoes. In the evening you have dinner on the seashore and go to Tel Aviv airport and fly to Antalya.
Excursion to Istanbul
You can go on an excursion to Istanbul from any resort region of Turkey for one or two days. The tour in Istanbul begins with a visit to the Sultan's Palace - Topkapi, the Hagia Sophia Museum - Ayasofya (8th wonder of the world). After lunch break, you go to the Blue Mosque of Sultan Ahmet and take a yacht trip along the Bosphorus Bay, see the Golden Horn. At the end of the tour, take a stroll through the local shopping centers.
Excursion to Cyprus
While relaxing at the resorts of Turkey, go to the territory of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus; a visa is not required to travel there. Cyprus is a crossroads of sea routes of the Middle Ages, the birthplace of many legends and tales. During the trip you will see the ruins of the ancient city: theatre, temples, port, baths, feel the rural way of life, the serenity of life in Cyprus, enjoy the picturesqueness of these places. One of the once richest resort cities is the city of Famagusta (Gazimagusta), where the Venetians lived centuries ago. No less popular among tourists is the city of the hero Teucer, the hero of Troy. An interesting fact is that all the cities of Northern Cyprus have two names - Greek and Turkish. The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia (Lefkosa). In the second part of the excursion you will go on a yacht trip on the water.
KEMER
Kemer is a resort town and the administrative center of the district of the same name, located 42 kilometers southwest of Antalya. Kemer is located in the historical region known as Lycia, whose land bears the traces of Alexander the Great, Anthony and many other great generals of antiquity. The city is located on the territory of the National Park of the same name, on the slopes of the Taurus Mountains, approaching the Mediterranean Sea itself. This small seaside town, which grew out of a fishing village, is mentioned in Homer’s Iliad: legend says that in ancient times there lived a monster with the body of a goat, the tail of a dragon and the head of a lion - the Chimera, whose name is preserved in the name of the city.
The climate here is Mediterranean - relatively cool in summer. In Kemer and its surroundings there are many different hotels - from modest family boarding houses to luxurious five-star clubs. The resort area of Kemer includes the areas: Beldibi, Goynuk, Kemer, Kirish, Camyuva, Tekirova.
The beaches of Kemer are predominantly pebble, which is an undoubted advantage. Thanks to the pebbles, the sea always remains crystal clear even in shallow waters; many beaches are awarded the Blue Flag, marking the most favorable coastline for relaxation. Since the transparency of the depths of the sea is not disturbed, this creates ideal diving conditions for both experienced divers and beginners who are getting acquainted with the kingdom of Neptune for the first time. The total length of the Kemer beach strip is more than 40 km. The total population of Kemer is 19.1 thousand inhabitants. In addition, Kemer boasts a wonderful climate and an abundance of greenery; most hotels are located directly in the forested area. The coast is famous for its picturesque bays and magnificent pine forests. For tourists who prefer an active lifestyle, Kemer will find everything they want: on the beaches - sporting events, diving equipment, yacht piers, for entertainment lovers - many bars and restaurants, shops and discos.
Sights of Kemer
If you like sightseeing, then not far from Kemer you can visit the majestic ruins of the ancient cities of ancient Lycia: Tekirova, Olympos and Phaselis. Scorched by the sun and time, squares and streets, walls and amphitheatres, sarcophagi and monuments imperceptibly capture you with their charm.
Traditional route yacht tours, starting from Kemer, and runs in the direction of Phaselis bays, which since ancient times have been considered the most beautiful on the coast; it’s not for nothing that the location shooting of the Hollywood “Odyssey” took place here. Kemer preserves the memory of Alexander the Great, who led his troops; the Romans left behind famous roads that never wear out, triumphal arches of emperors and necropolises of cities.
In Kemer you will find the clearest sea, gentle sun and hospitable hosts who are ready to make your holiday unforgettable. In Yeryuk park(nomad), where tourists often go on jeep safari excursions, you can meet craftsmen at their traditional work and buy your favorite souvenirs for all tastes. On vacation in Kemer you can also go on a combined tour "Aqua Safari". Part of your journey will take place by water, and then by land. And if you are a fan of the water element and dancing, then the “Disco on a Yacht” excursion is designed just for you. During an unobtrusive walk along the sea coast, you will enjoy the best dance hits of our time.
There is a famous revolving restaurant in Kemer. We offer you to take an excursion to the top of the mountain where the wonderful restaurant is located. Approximately once an hour, its building rotates around its axis, so visitors to the mountain monastery can see the local mountain panorama from all sides. Excursion to Tunektepe disco organized from Kemer and Antalya.
Excursion to Mira Kekova
One of the most interesting excursions to the Lycian cities is Myra (modern Demre) and Kekova. Founded in the 5th century BC, the city monuments, rock tombs, and Greco-Roman theater of these cities are perfectly preserved. During the trip, tourists will be able not only to enjoy the beauty of Turkish nature, but also to visit the homeland of the miracle worker St. Nicholas (the prototype of Santa Claus), the patron saint of sailors, merchants and children, and visit his church and orange groves. It is believed that after visiting the Church of St. Nicholas, every girl will find a worthy life partner. After lunch at a local cafe, tourists go on a sea voyage to the island of Kekova, where the famous ancient monuments-cities are located, which over time, as a result of tectonic movements of the Taurus Mountains, plunged into the water: Aperlai, Kekova, Simena and Theimussa. The duration of the excursion is about 7 hours.
Lycian tombs in Myra
Demre-Pamukkale
For more discerning and inquisitive tourists, we recommend choosing a two-day excursion along the Demre-Pamukkale route. The town of Pamukkale or Cotton Fortress, located on a mountain range, is one of the wonders of the world. Snow-white crystals of travertine terraces, blue mineral springs and ancient historical monuments of ancient Hierapolis create a fabulous landscape, which hundreds of thousands of tourists traditionally come to admire. Previously, tourists were allowed to swim in natural pools and walk barefoot through calcium-rich springs, but due to the huge flow of tourists coming here, they were banned. Everyone can swim in Cleopatra's pool, the waters of which, according to legend, rejuvenate. Now a separate area has been allocated for tourists to walk in Pammukale, and the attraction has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Excursions to Pammukale can be either one-day or two-day. We recommend choosing a two-day educational holiday option, which gives you the opportunity to see and learn more about the history of the country than one fairly eventful day.
travertine formations of Pamukkale
Cappadocia
An excursion to Cappadocia is a trip to the open-air nature museum, which is located at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level. A two-day trip to a flat plateau devoid of vegetation, to the “Land of Beautiful Horses”, will make a huge impression on any traveler. The beautiful mysterious world of cave settlements of the 1st century. BC Cappadocia and Goreme National Park captivate the eye with a bizarre landscape of volcanic origin. Millions of years ago, the Erciyes volcano erupted its ferocious streams, covering the surface of the earth for hundreds of kilometers around. It was one of the greatest eruptions, creating one of the most magnificent landscapes on the planet. The first settlers of this area lived in rock caves. With the advent of Christianity, monasteries, churches, and chapels arose here. Just like Pamukkale, Cappadocia is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The duration of the individual excursion is two and a half days. The program is developed individually for each group.
View of the Uchisar fortress, carved into the rock
You can also explore Cappadocia from a bird's eye view - in a hot air balloon, although the pleasure is not the cheapest (the flight costs about three hundred dollars), but the sensations in such an excursion are much brighter.
Rafting
Rafting in Kemer and Belek - rafting on the Kopru Chay mountain river, this is a small, moderately extreme trip, vivid impressions, positive emotions and safety. On comfortable buses, tourists from different regions come to the mouth of the Kopru Chay River. From where the 11-kilometer descent down the river by canoe or raft begins. During the boat trip, tourists will overcome rapids of the first and second difficulty. An experienced instructor, who is always nearby, will help you put on special equipment and instruct you on how to behave during the trip. The excursion involves a journey with a stop where you will be offered a delicious lunch. On the river bank, in an open-air restaurant, you can enjoy your choice of salads, fish or chicken. At the finish line you will be able to purchase photographs taken during the trip. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes, bringing a swimsuit, towel, and a change of underwear. The duration of the excursion is 5 hours.
BELEK
Belek is a modern hotel area located 25-30 km southwest of Antalya. Between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean beaches lie the green expanses of Belek, offering a comfortable holiday for lovers of natural beauty. The air saturated with the resinous breath of pine and eucalyptus groves, the crystal waves of the clear sea, the gentle velvet of sandy beaches - the combination of delightful natural resources creates an atmosphere of calm and tranquility.
On the coast there are upscale hotels with developed infrastructure, built without causing damage to pine forests and the nature of the area as a whole. The beaches of Belek have been awarded the European Blue Flag for the cleanliness of the coastal waters. The uniqueness of Belek is due not only to the natural and geographical features of the area, but also to the excellent resort component. Despite its fairly young age and the lack of a grandiose historical past, such as other cities on the Antalya coast (Kemer, Alanya or Antalya), Belek has gained a reputation as a respectable and prestigious holiday destination. Therefore, mostly wealthy people spend their time here, for whom the important characteristics of a vacation are the level of service, the class of the hotel (there are almost no 3* hotels in Belek), the variety of leisure activities (the opportunity to play golf, ride a horse, do fitness, mountaineering, rafting. Frequent guests of the resort are football teams that train in Belek all year round.
Belek has become world famous for its golf courses; it is here that the National Golf Club, opened in 1994, is located, which is classified as meeting all world standards. For lovers of horse riding, the doors of riding clubs are open in Belek.
Not far from Belek, on an area of 500 hectares, the forests of the Köprülü Canyon National Park are green, famous for its lush chestnut and cedar forests, and hiding in its crowns more than 100 species of unique birds, including the amber owl, the symbol of Belek. Giant Caretta Caretta turtles have been breeding in the sun-warmed sands for many thousands of years. For thrill-seekers, the reserve provides the opportunity to engage in rock climbing, but the most popular are rafting and inflatable boating along the Kyupruchay River.
Köprülü Canyon
Connoisseurs of educational recreation will be able to take a short excursion tour of ancient cities Perge, Termessos, Aspendos. A unique feature of the resort is the careful balance between hotel comfort and environmental cleanliness. In Belek, nature and civilization organically complement each other.
Excursion to the Troy water park
Take an excursion to the largest water park "Troy" in Belek, which is located on the territory of the upscale hotel "Rixos Premium Belek". Guests of this hotel can use the water park free of charge. The Troy water park is dedicated to the Trojan War; in its very center stands the figure of a Trojan horse, from which you can slide down the slides into the pool. Also here you can ride an artificial wave that simulates surfing and ride a lift slide. Both adults and children will find entertainment for themselves. After fun water fun in the water park, you can refresh yourself in a cafe with national Turkish cuisine, enjoy milkshakes, ice cream and sweets.
water park "Troy"
If you wish, you can also visit the local “Troyan” dolphinarium, see artists - seals, dolphins. Tourists vacationing in Belek can also visit other water parks in Antalya: Dedeman and Aqualand.
Rafting– river rafting on shockproof inflatable boats or canoes is a fairly popular form of recreation. An exciting descent down a mountain river in a canoe or on a special raft will remain in your memory for the rest of your life. At the finish line you will receive your own photos and can buy a video about how valiantly you fought against the elements. Special equipment and life jackets will help you get out of the water “dry”.
SIDE
Side is a small peninsula located near one of the oldest settlements in Turkey - Side, 75 km from Antalya. The city is located on a peninsula of the same name, deepening into the waters of the warm Gulf of Antalya. Side is one of the busiest resorts in southern Turkey.
In the Old Anatolian language Luwi, the word "Side" means "pomegranate". The small peninsula, bordered by sandy beaches, indeed resembles in its outlines a pomegranate fruit that fell on the coastal strip, right into the warm Mediterranean wave. In ancient times, the pomegranate was a symbol of life and fertility, so the coins minted in the city bearing that name are decorated with this particular image.
Side city
During antiquity, Side was a major trading center, but the dignity of a wealthy port merged with the infamous slave market and the riotous glory of a pirate haven. The peak of the pomegranate city's heyday occurred during the Roman Empire; it was this era that left most of the monuments quietly proud of their turbulent past, surrounded by respectfully admiring tourists. The city amphitheater, the Roman baths, sheltering the archaeological museum in the slumber of the halls, the walls and gates of the city, the slender columns of the Temple of Apollo bask in the rays of the dazzling sun, hiding the shadows of past centuries in their cracks. Destroyed by earthquakes and enemy raids by the 10th century, Side plunged into the slumber of a quiet provincial life for a long time, preserving for future guests - tourists the amazing atmosphere of closeness to history. For lovers of antiquity, the pomegranate city is a real archaeological reserve.
Modern Side does not go beyond the walls of the ancient city. The mirages of the past and the breath of the present live in it. The ancient roads along which imperial armies and colorful caravans, the Apostle Paul and patient wanderers moved, lead to the majestic ruins of the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. The pine groves of Sorgun, the Manavgat waterfall, the water surface of the artificial lake Titreyengol - the amazing harmony of natural contrasts organically sets off the monuments of the turbulent past.
The flat landscape of Side has changed with the development of tourism; hotels attract attention with well-groomed greenery of trees and flowers. Side offers wonderful sandy beaches for relaxation, awarded the European Blue Flag. The main part of the hotels is located in three zones. In Colakli, 14 km from the city, the most modern hotels with good infrastructure and sandy beaches have been built. Kumkoy, the resort area closest to the city, is famous for its picturesque coastline and shallow coastal waters. Titreyengel, famous for its artificial lake and modern entertainment centers, is located 7 km from Side.
Voyage Sorgun Hotel
The narrow streets of Side, Manavgat, Sorgun, Kumkoy will hide lovers of walks from the heat of the day, countless restaurants will offer to relax and enjoy amazing Turkish cuisine, and colorful shops and shops will allow you to find that souvenir that will most clearly reflect the extraordinary flavor of the pomegranate city.
Tourists go on excursions from Side to the amphitheater Aspendos, to the ancient ruins Perge, To Kursunlu waterfalls, shopping, sightseeing tour of Alanya.
ALANYA
A city of legends, a haven for pirates and a beautiful resort - all this is Alanya, the city that the lover Mark Antony gave to Queen Cleopatra. Alanya is famous for its historical attractions, the main of which is the Byzantine fortress of the Seljuk Turks (13th century) on the top of the mountain. Tourists are also given the opportunity to look at the unique shipyards and the octagonal Red Tower (Kyzyl Kule) located near the fortress. Alanya is famous for its caves, the most picturesque and visited stalactite cave is Damlatas(“cave of wet stones”).
Alanya is located in the very east of the Antalya coast, on the Mediterranean coast. The resort city, located on a rocky cape, is surprisingly democratic: hotels of all categories, campsites and inexpensive guesthouses offer recreation on its coasts.
In Alanya you can find a place for tourists of any income and preferences. The beaches of Alanya are flat, and the sea near the shore is shallow, so tourists with children like to come here. Hotels within the city are usually urban-type, with small areas and without their own beaches. More modern and comfortable hotels are located in the suburbs of Alanya. In Karaburun, the beaches are sand and pebble, and along the shores there are 4-5* hotels with large green areas; the town of Okudzhalar with sand and pebble beaches and the Incekum resort with a wonderful sandy coast - a strip of cheerful hotels, mostly 4* and 5*. Konakli is a village with inexpensive 3* and 4* hotels (sand and pebble beaches), in the suburbs of which there are 4* -5* hotels.
Alanya is surrounded by numerous banana and orange plantations. The city center is located near the port with a lively picturesque embankment, market streets, fish restaurants, cafes, colorful shops and shops. Alanya is a lively place, it does not calm down even at night, restaurants and discos are open here around the clock and constantly filled, and young people are always having fun on the promenade. Along the coastal road from the picturesque city park to the harbor, there are countless cozy shops offering tourists handicrafts, leather and cotton, jewelry and ceramics, and the most common souvenir - pumpkin bottles - symbols of these places. In August, Alanya hosts the International Folklore Festival, which turns the slow life of the city into general fun.
One of the popular excursions in Alanya is excursion to water parks: “Troy”, “Waterplanet", "Sealanya" and additionally, if desired, in dolphinarium. Here you can snorkel and swim in a pool with fish, find yourself in close proximity to toothy sharks, look at underwater coral reefs and raft along a picturesque freshwater river. This water park also has a swimming pool and water slides especially for children. There are restaurants and bars on the territory of the water park. The price of the water park ticket includes the cost of lunch. There is a dolphinarium next to the water park.
Cappadocia and Ephesus
A two-day excursion to Cappadocia and Ephesus will help you plunge into the ancient history of Turkey. You will spend the first day in Cappadocia - an open-air natural museum, where early Christian settlers St. George the Victorious, the Theologian, and Basil the Great lived, and chapels, monasteries, and churches are still preserved in the caves. Cappadocia amazes with its spacious valleys and bizarre landscapes created by the volcano.
On the second day you will go to Ephesus, an ancient city with which many myths and legends are associated. Here was one of the wonders of the world - the Temple of Artemis, of which only ruins now remain - the temple was burned by Herostratus so that his descendants would remember it. Ephesus, mentioned in the Bible, is also famous for the fact that it was once the home of the Virgin Mary, where she spent the last years of her life. The library of Celsius was located in Ephesus. Tourists can see the well-preserved small and large theaters, Agora Square, the Temple of Hadrian, the Gate of Hercules, Hestia, and an ensemble of houses with mosaic floors and wall frescoes.
Hammam
After long two-day excursions, as well as at the beginning of a vacation, we recommend visiting a relaxing and “warmly” hammam, then the tan will be even and the body will be rested. Hamam came to the Turks from the ancient Romans, who came up with the idea of washing in this way: first you need to take a steam bath, then undergo soap peeling and a relaxing massage, and get healing for your soul and body.
Paragliding
A parachute flight from the top of a mountain is a sea of impressions and beautiful panoramic landscapes. During your trip you will be filmed on video camera, so you can show your friends and family unique footage. An experienced instructor will provide instructions and accompany you throughout the flight. We recommend wearing sportswear and shoes for the excursion.
Diving
An exciting journey is planned for you for the whole day! You will have an adventure on a yacht, under the guidance of an instructor you will master the rules of scuba diving, learn how to use scuba gear, and receive a scuba diver certificate. The efforts spent will be repaid with fantastic underwater landscapes of the kingdom of Neptune and an extravaganza of incredible impressions. The sea off the coast of Turkey attracts a considerable number of divers. Sunken cities, caves, amphorae fields are a field of activity worthy not only of a novice diver. A delicious lunch will compensate for the calories spent and add a good mood. Bring a swimsuit, towel, and comfortable shoes. The duration of the excursion is about 5 hours.
From Alanya you can also go on an excursion to Antalya, Side, Istanbul, Israel, Demre-Mira-Kekova, Pamukkale, rafting, a boat trip on a yacht, Turkish Night, discos, lights of Anatolia.
Before 1200 BC The area of the Anatolian coast was occupied by the indigenous population. Then Greek colonists came here and mixed with the local tribes. In those days, this territory was called Pamphylia, which means “land of all tribes.”
In the second century BC. King Attalus of Pergamon ordered his subjects to find the most beautiful place on earth, a real earthly paradise. After a long search around the world, they found a corner where in 159 BC. under the leadership of Attalus, a city began to be built, named Attaleia in his honor.
The Crusaders, having captured the city, gave it their name “Satalia”. The city acquired its current name in the 13th century, when it came under the rule of Sultan Alaedin Keykubat, who turned Antalya into his winter residence.
Anatolian region as a resort
The Anatolian region on Turkey's Mediterranean coast is considered the country's most famous and popular tourist destination. It is also the warmest - the swimming season begins in April and ends by November. The sun is hot here all year round, and you can swim from April to October. The sea water temperature during this period on the coast is approximately 20-26 C.
All resorts in the Anatolian region are located on a picturesque coast, on a rocky plateau, surrounded by the Taurus mountain range, the highest peaks of which are covered with snow all year round. Combined with the greenery in which the settlements are surrounded, the resorts make an impressive contrast.
The climate is characterized by warm winters and hot summers. The season begins in March-April: you can go skiing in the morning and swim in the sea in the middle of the day. The main resorts of the Anatolian coast: Antalya, Kemer, Belek, Side, Alanya. The central city of the Mediterranean coast is Antalya.
This is a large, modern, rapidly developing city, located 12 km from the airport. The flight to Antalya is short and no visa is required. Every year, the resort city of Antalya welcomes an ever-increasing flow of tourists from all over the world, who come not only to relax, but also to get acquainted with the historical heritage and monuments of art and architecture of ancient civilization. The name of the city is used as a general name for the resort coast with a length of more than 200 km, stretching to the west and east of the center of Antalya.
This city with a colorful history combines ancient culture and a majestic coastline of hills and plains. It rises 40 meters above sea level. The weather is dry and warm throughout most of the year and is ideal for relaxation. In summer, the air temperature in Antalya is 25-30 C.
There is a developed network of modern hotels, many restaurants, national-style coffee shops, various entertainment and shopping centers, and water amusement parks. On the same coast as the resort there are many more ancient cities.
Antalya is a city resort rather than a beach resort. Most hotels are urban type. Some are located in the Konyaalti area, using the municipal beach with large white pebbles, others, located in the central rocky part, use platform beaches. Still others, built in the Lara and Kundu areas, have their own sandy beaches.
Sights of Antalya
Antalya is rich in historical monuments. The city center - Kaleici - has seen many civilizations throughout its centuries-old history. The old part of the city covers an area of 35 hectares. This area is very compact. There are ancient fortress walls, wooden houses, covered verandas and balconies, towering minarets, narrow winding streets and stairs, a picturesque harbor, and houses with tiled roofs. There are many boarding houses, restaurants and hotels.
The very center is the harbor, the place where the coast curves and there is a clear division into the western and eastern parts of Antalya. The harbor itself is tiny and cozy, with terraces at the top where you can sit.
Not far from the harbor on Kalekapisi Square there is the Clock Tower, a couple of mighty pillars left over from the city walls and a monument to Ataturk and his comrades.
To exit the old city into modern Antalya, you can go through Hadrian's Gate, one of the most ancient monuments in Antalya. They were erected in honor of the visit of the city by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD. Nearby is the Kara Ali Park and the small Mermerli beach.
Konyaalti District
The city beach in Antalya is pebbly and free. It is called Konyaalti, like the entire western region of the city. The beach stretches for several kilometers. Closer to the center, in front of the beach on a high terrace, there is Ataturk Park - it goes into the beach.
Muratpasa District
The eastern part of Antalya is a scattering of completely identical 9-10-story buildings. They grew up here in the 1980s and 1990s.
The hotels are located in a long strip on the terrace above the sea. And the main point for tourists is Lara Beach. In front of the beach, the Duden River flows into the Mediterranean Sea directly from a high cliff. This is called the Lower Duden waterfall.
Kemer is located in the historical region known as Lycia. This small fishing village, thanks to its natural beauty, has turned into a developed and popular resort. 70 kilometers of Kemer's beaches stretch along the Mediterranean Sea at the foot of the pine-forested Taurus Mountains.
Within the city limits of Kemer there are two beaches: city, pebble, and Moonlight Beach, located in the territory of the park of the same name with an area of 55,000 square meters. m densely planted with pine trees, orange trees, and cypress trees. The sandy beach stretches for 320 meters. The resort area of Kemer includes the following areas: Kemer itself, Beldibi, Goynuk, Kiris, Tekirova and Camyuva with a wide choice of places to stay, from modest family pensions to luxurious five-star club hotels.
Sights of Kemer
Ataturk Boulevard is the main street of Kemer, on which there is a monument to the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Not far from the monument there is a clock tower made of white stone - the symbol of Kemer. There are dancing fountains in front of the monument.
One of the main attractions is the Chimera, or “Burning Mountain,” located in the town of Cirali, near Kemer. On the slope of Mount Tahtali one can observe constant flashes of fire - a natural phenomenon occurring due to gas seeping onto the surface of the earth. This is the place mentioned by Homer in the Iliad. As the story goes, the hero Bellerophon, exiled to Lycia, killed the Chimera with his arrow - a monster with the head of a lion, the body of a goat and the tail of a snake - and threw it inside Mount Olympus, which caused the appearance of mysterious flames.
Not far from Kemer, the ruins of the ancient cities of Olympos and Phaselis, founded in the 3rd century BC, have been preserved. The ancient city of Olympos. Since antiquity, a theater and the doors of an ancient temple located to the west of the river have been preserved here, and the city walls and towers in the bay remind of the Middle Ages. Today Olympos is part of the National Park and is protected by law prohibiting the development of mass tourism in the area.
The ancient city of Phaselis is located on a cape jutting out into the sea. According to one legend, the tomb of Alexander the Great is located here. It was one of the most important trade and economic centers and therefore had as many as 4 ports, which were connected by a wide road. The Roman baths, the amphitheater, the historical ruins of the aqueduct, the paved road leading to Hadrian's Gate, and the market squares are well preserved.
In the north of Kemer, the Yoruk theme park is located, allowing tourists to get acquainted with the history and culture of Turkey. Here you can watch artisans at work, try nomadic treats, relax in one of the tents and get acquainted with the exhibits of the exhibition halls.
Another attraction of Kemer is the unusually beautiful Moonlight park complex, located on the outskirts of Kemer, behind the port. The park has a long beach, restaurants, cafes and small shops. The highlight of the park is the Dolphinarium entertainment center.
Bildibi Cave - located 16 km north of Kemer, contains traces of Paleolithic man.
Belek is the most prestigious and new resort in Turkey. Distance from Antalya Airport - 30 km. The best time to relax here is spring and autumn. The resort infrastructure was created quite recently. The resort is notable for its natural conditions, an excellent sandy beach with a gentle entrance to the sea, a two-hundred-year-old forest belt of pines, cedars, and cypresses stretching along the coastline.
The resort area consists of small villages: Belek, Boaskend and Kadriye. Each of them has shops, restaurants and cafes.
There are a number of comfortable hotels on Belek's wide sandy beaches. Belek clubs and hotels are built and equipped with the latest technology (Rixos Premium, Cornelia de-luxe Resort, Xanadu). These are the best hotels in Turkey that meet the new requirements of the time. In the Belek region, only four- and five-star hotels of original architecture have been built, with excellent swimming pools and large gardens. This resort region was planned and built over several years.
This is an ideal place for a beach, comfortable, family vacation. Belek is one of the world's golf centers. Some hotels have good golf centers: Letoonia Golf Resort, Adora Golf Resort, Gloria Verde Resort, Tat Beach Golf Hotel, Sirene Golf Palace & Village.
In 1994, the National Golf Club was opened here, which is classified as first-class, meeting all world standards.
Popular among vacationers are rafting down the mountain river Kepryuchay, windsurfing, water skiing, parasailing, diving, and jeep safari. Yacht tour along several routes. One of them leads to the ruins of the ancient city, where the remains of an aqueduct, baths, amphitheaters, the outlines of city streets and fortress walls are revealed to the eye. Here you can engage in rock climbing and horse riding. Belek is visited by tourists from around the world in the summer, and famous sports teams come in winter for recreation, recreation and training. Here, appropriate conditions have been created for training both in closed halls and in a vast forest area, the air of which has an optimal concentration of ozone and has a beneficial effect on human health. There are fields equipped according to world standards for playing football, volleyball, basketball, tennis and paintball.
Sights of Belek
The main attraction of the Belek resort is the Koprulu Canyon National Park, which covers an area of about 500 hectares. This is mainly Mediterranean cypress and eucalyptus forest and pistachio trees. It is home to many unique bird species, including the Tuto Alba owl, which has become the symbol of Belek. Giant Caretta Caretta turtles breed in the area.
Belek is one of the few resorts that does not belong to any historical city. But the resort is located in close proximity to the ruins of the ancient cities of Perge, Aspendos, Side.
Side is a small ancient resort town 68 km from Antalya. Side is characterized by a mild climate and low humidity, which allows you to easily tolerate hot summer days. The best time to relax here is autumn and spring.
Side is located on a picturesque green peninsula with a wonderful coastline, orange groves and pine forests on the mountain slopes. In a quiet bay, snow-white yachts and sailboats are lined up along the pier.
Side - a city with small stylish buildings, narrow streets and houses with tiled roofs does not extend beyond the walls of the ancient city. There are only two main streets here, which have been preserved since ancient times.
The resort of Side is popular among tourists due to affordable prices in hotels where you can enjoy the sun and enjoy all types of water sports.
There are luxury hotels on the seashore. Today the city is one of the busiest resorts in Turkey. Most Side hotels have their own spacious sandy beaches. Tourists go on excursions from Side, Belek and Antalya to the Aspendos amphitheater, to the ancient ruins of Perge, to the Kursunlu waterfalls and many others.
Side includes the resort areas of Monavgat, Kumkoy, Titreyengel, Sorgun and Colakli.
Side has been considered an ideal place for couples in love ever since, according to legend, Cleopatra and Mark Antony had a romantic date in the town. The Side coast is also perfect for families with children, as there is a lot of children's entertainment.
Sights of Side
Side has preserved many unique architectural monuments. These are statues, Roman baths, temples of Athena and Apollo, a necropolis, a fountain and aqueducts next to the Agora. The ruins of the ancient Greek port have been preserved.
Interesting is the Altynbeshik Cave National Park, which is located 55 km north of Manavgat. Lakes, rocks, calcareous tuff in the cave area.
Not far from Side are the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. The legendary city of Perge was founded in 1000 BC, after the events of the Trojan War. Inside the city you can see the gladiator arena, necropolis, Roman baths and Hellenic gates.
In the ancient city of Aspendos there is a famous amphitheater with a capacity of 20,000 spectators, built in the 2nd century BC. It has amazing acoustics.
Alanya is rightfully called one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey. It lies on the southern coast of Anatolia, on the edge of a mountainous cape that juts out into the Mediterranean Sea and is located between two long sandy beaches. This picturesque city with modern hotels and guesthouses is located 120 km south of Antalya and is only slightly inferior in size. Alanya is a popular tourist resort on the Turkish Riviera. It is located in the very center of a large resort area stretching from Karaburun to Mahmutlar. Wide fertile plains, groves of orange and lemon trees, endless beaches to the east of Antalya and well-preserved attractions provide ideal places for relaxation and entertainment. Alanya's coastal strip is very open, with low mountains in the distance.
The Alanya resort area includes the areas of Incekum, Konakli, Karaburun and Mahmutlar. The swimming season on the beaches of Alanya lasts from late April to mid-November. Alanya is famous for its unusual climate: dry and hot days and rather cool nights in summer. Alanya is usually several degrees warmer than Kemer and Belek. The place is famous for its subtropical climate and beaches, located at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, among orange and lemon orchards. Throughout the year, the weather on the Antalya coast is dry and warm and makes for an excellent holiday. You can swim from April to November. The hot sun shines almost all year round. The sea water temperature during this period on the Alanya coast is approximately 20-25 C, the air temperature is 30-35 C.
Alanya has long been famous for its variety of fruits and vegetables, so the hotel windows offer views of Alanya's fruit plantations. Alanya has a large number of archaeological and historical monuments. Excursions to the stalactite caves of the Devil, Damlatash, and Phosphorus of Love leave unforgettable impressions for tourists.
Alanya is a beautiful resort town, a center of modern hotels, numerous restaurants, cafes and bars that serve a variety of seafood dishes, as well as traditional fruit tea. The cafes that surround the harbor are very popular among tourists: there are always a lot of people there. Speaking about the famous nightlife of Alanya, one cannot fail to mention the bars, nightclubs and discos on the embankment, thanks to which the city is often called the “Turkish Rio De Janeiro”.
The beaches in Alanya are not wide, with dense yellow sand, and the entrance to the sea is very gentle - ideal conditions for tourists with children. Another important advantage of Alanya is inexpensive hotel accommodation, 10-15 percent cheaper than its counterparts in neighboring resorts. True, there are no prestigious hotels in the city itself - more and more 2-3*, maximum 4*, with small bald areas and a municipal sandy beach across the road. But there are many discos, bars, restaurants, and there is its own amusement park and Water Planet water park.
To the west of Alanya, bays with delicate sand open up. A large number of international standard hotels are being built in the Alanya-Inchekum region. The highway runs along the coastline. As soon as the mountain range with Alanya Castle disappears from view, two bays open to the west and east of the city. The beach of the western sandy gently sloping bay, stretching for two kilometers, is called Cleopatra Beach. According to legend, the great queen Cleopatra bathed in these waters.
The Alanya region includes the resort centers of Karaburun, Incekum, Avsalar and Konakli. This region is especially popular among young people, as well as couples with children, due to its long sandy beaches, as well as economical hotels.
Alanya consists of two completely different resort areas - the city of Alanya itself, where city hotels are mainly located, and the Insekum resort area adjacent to Alanya, where many inexpensive but very decent 4* hotels are located. City hotels are inexpensive, the main drawback is that there is a busy highway along the coast; most inexpensive hotels are located across the road from the sea.
The most popular hotels among Russian tourists for a long time remain Botanik Hotel and Delphin Hotel, which are located next to each other. The first hotel has a gorgeous green area with a botanical garden, the second hotel is distinguished by its scope and high service; each hotel has excellent leisure activities for children and adults. More economical hotels include Saphir 4*, Club Justiano 4*, Club No. 4*. Of the three-star hotels for young people, the Liberty 3* hotel is suitable.
At night, the Gulf of Alanya embankment is lively, filled with restaurants and taverns, crowded with numerous lovers of night yacht cruises.
Sights of Alanya.
The main attraction of Alanya is the Byzantine fortress on the top of the mountain, overlooking the city. The Seljuk fortress (XIII century) is one of the most famous attractions. 150 towers are successfully integrated into the double wall architecture. Behind the outer walls are the ruins of mosques, a caravanserai and a covered bazaar. Behind the inner walls you can see the ruins of a reservoir and a Byzantine church. Tourists can get acquainted with the unique shipyards and the octagonal Red Tower (Kyzyl Kule) located near the fortress.
Another attraction of Alanya is the Damlatas stalactite cave, which is widely known in these places. It is located deep in the hill, above which the citadel is erected. It maintains a constant temperature of 22C all the time, and humidity reaches 90-98%. The air inside the cave is saturated with carbonate, which creates favorable conditions for the treatment of asthma and other respiratory diseases. Museums of archeology and ethnography are located nearby.
By boat you can get to three other sea grottoes: Phosphorlu Magara with glowing rocks, Kizlar Magarasy, where pirates once kept captives, and Ashiklar Magarasy.
Alanya is considered one of the most popular Turkish cities for a pleasant pastime.
— this is where the largest number of travelers come every year. Washed by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and bordered by the Taurus Mountains on the other, this area features a picturesque landscape.
Snow-capped peaks are adjacent to long beaches surrounded by pine forests and orange orchards. Developed infrastructure, a variety of entertainment, rich flora and fauna invariably attract vacationers.
Hotel prices
Those tourists who are not afraid of the long road are welcome ancient buildings against the backdrop of picturesque mountains, sandy beaches in cozy bays and fun youth parties.
Best hotel – Sirius Deluxe Hotel 5*
Sirius Deluxe Hotel 5* is considered the best place to stay in Alanya. Located 20 km from the city center, in the village of Avsallar. We offer open fitness center, spa with hammam and sauna. Vacationers can attend aqua aerobics classes, cooking classes, evening entertainment with live music and dance shows.
Sports entertainment includes billiards, table tennis and darts, a water park, and canoeing. In addition to the outdoor pool, the hotel has an indoor. The main restaurant serves a buffet, while the a la carte restaurants serve Turkish and Italian cuisine.
Side
Side is famous for its sandy beaches with the “blue flag” and the ruins of ancient Greek buildings. About this popular resort destination.
For its soft golden sand and gentle entrance to the water, the coast of the resort is especially loved by vacationers with small children, especially since the road from the airport to Side takes only an hour by car.
Inspect historical center and take photos against the backdrop of fragments of ancient temples tourists come from all over the Antalya coast. There are many national parks and natural monuments around the city, trips to which add variety to your vacation.
The combination of entertainment for children and youth, nature lovers and historical attractions allows the resort to be one of the most popular tourist destinations.
Best hotel – Nashira Resort & Aqua 5*
The best hotels in Side rightfully include Nashira Resort & Aqua 5*, famous for its water park with 15 slides for children and 12 for adults. Guests also have access to 22 outdoor swimming pools and one indoor one.. The hotel is located 7 km from the center of Side in a protected area where more than a hundred species of migratory birds, Caretta turtles and other representatives of the Mediterranean fauna live.
Many tennis courts, 10 table tennis tables, 2 beach volleyball courts and a football field will not let fans of active recreation get bored. Guests can enjoy Turkish, Ottoman, Mexican, Italian and seafood specialties at the a la carte restaurants. There are 7 bars on site serving alcohol, soft drinks and snacks.
Belek
The resort is favored by respectable tourists, which is why there are almost no inexpensive “three rubles” or “fours” here. Almost the entire beach line is divided between luxury hotels operating according to the “ultra all-inclusive” concept. The main part of the entertainment is concentrated on their territory. There are no historical values at the resort.
Best Hotel – Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek
Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek- the best place to relax in Belek. The advantageous location away from other hotels among pine forests near the river makes your stay secluded and relaxing. The private 1 km long private beach is considered the best in this resort area.
It offers 9 outdoor and 2 indoor pools, water park, spa and fitness center with a full range of services. If you wish, you can go on a boat ride on the river. The main restaurant offers a buffet with a children's buffet. Four a la carte restaurants serve seafood, Turkish and Italian cuisine.
Antalya
Antalya is the most popular Turkish resort: there is no need to travel from the airport to other cities, and thanks to high competition, prices for accommodation with first-class service are not too high. There is everything here: ancient streets in the historical center, youth hangouts, and the opportunity to get to nearby national parks.
About Antalya (or Antalya, which is more correct) we offer
Both children and adults will find it interesting to visit two of the country's largest water parks, and shopping lovers will be able to do the most in Antalya interesting and profitable purchases. The city itself is quite noisy, the beaches are not the cleanest due to the large flow of tourists.
Best hotel – Akra Barut Hotel 5*
Akra Barut Hotel 5* has a surprisingly advantageous location: simultaneously in the city center and right on the seashore. The spa center offers massages, a sauna and a hammam.
At the Pablito restaurant serves Turkish and international cuisine, including seafood, freshly baked bread, pizza, pasta. Asmani Restaurant on the 11th floor offers views of the majestic Bay Mountains, the Mediterranean Sea and the city.
There is no all-inclusive concept; you can choose BB, HB or FB+ meals if you wish. In the evenings there is live music on site. Ideal for business tourism or relaxing holidays.
Which resort has the most positive reviews?
Each resort on the Antalya coast of Turkey has its own advantages and disadvantages. Tourists especially praise Belek for its developed infrastructure, proximity to the airport, excellent beaches. At the same time this the most expensive resort in the region, which makes holidays on it not the most affordable.
