A Day in Antalya

I had been looking forward to this day for a very long time. More than 20 years ago, I visited Turkey for the first time and have returned again and again since then, yet there was one place I had never visited before — Antalya.

Right after breakfast, we set off with the rental car and our Turkish friend Aydin. Two hours later, we reached Lara, a suburb of Antalya.

Here we visited the famous Düden Waterfall. It impressively plunges roaring from a cliff several meters high into the sea. The view from the park above is breathtaking.

Several viewing platforms allow you to admire this wonder from different perspectives.

Since we had a lot planned, we finally tore ourselves away from this spectacle with a heavy heart.

The drive continued to the center of Antalya. The city is not only the heart of the Turkish Mediterranean coast but also a place with a rich history.

For hours, we strolled through the narrow, winding alleys of the picturesque old town.

Numerous impressive Ottoman and ancient buildings await visitors here. Vendors offer their goods at the bazaar. The atmosphere was unique.

Eventually, we reached the historic harbor, where ships and boats gently rocked on the sea. Here you find numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops inviting you to linger and shop.

Up many steps, you reach a platform where cafés and shops are also located. The panoramic view over the harbor is unique.

We sat down in one of the cafés, ordered iced cappuccinos, and enjoyed the stunning view.

Afterwards, we headed to Antalya’s shopping streets. Aydin especially wanted to buy a few things, but we also enjoyed the shopping trip.

This area buzzes with life. Locals and tourists alike stroll through the wide streets, the sidewalk cafés are well attended, and the mood is lively.

We finished our shopping and enjoyed a few cappuccinos in one of the cafés.

Soon we also noticed how hungry we had become. It was already afternoon, and we hadn’t eaten since breakfast.

In a cozy little restaurant, we ordered some delicacies of Turkish cuisine. The food was excellent.

On the way back to the parking lot, we strolled once more through the old town, passing Hadrian’s Gate, the city’s most significant monument, considered the entrance to the old town.

This magnificent monument from Roman times with its marble columns is truly impressive.

Soon we were back in the car and two hours later back at the hotel.

I definitely want to visit Antalya again; one day is simply far too little for this wonderful city.