Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time and experience the ancient and medieval history of Turkey? If so, then you should definitely visit Kaleici, the old town of Antalya, where you can immerse yourself in the past and enjoy the present at the same time.
Kaleici is the historical and cultural heart of Antalya, the largest city on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. It is a maze of narrow streets, stone walls, wooden houses, and colorful gardens that date back to the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. Kaleici is also home to some of the most iconic landmarks, museums, parks, cafes, and restaurants in Antalya, where you can discover the rich and diverse heritage of the region.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Kaleici, the old town of Antalya, and how to explore it like a local. We will cover the following topics:
- Things to do and see in Kaleici
- How to get to Kaleici
- Where to stay in Kaleici
Whether you are a history buff, a culture lover, or a foodie, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in Kaleici. So, let's get started!
Things to Do and See in Kaleici
Kaleici is a treasure trove of attractions, activities, and places to see, and you can easily spend a whole day or more exploring its charms. Here are some of the highlights that you should not miss:
Hadrian's Gate
One of the most impressive and recognizable sights in Kaleici is Hadrian's Gate, the ancient Roman archway that marks the entrance to the old town. It was built in 130 AD to commemorate the visit of Emperor Hadrian to Antalya, and it features three ornate arches decorated with reliefs and inscriptions. Hadrian's Gate is a stunning example of Roman architecture and engineering, and it is also one of the best-preserved monuments of its kind in the world.
Roman Harbour
Another must-see attraction in Kaleici is the Roman Harbour, the picturesque port that offers scenic views and boat tours. The harbour was once the main trading hub of Antalya, and it still retains its charm and vitality today. You can stroll along the waterfront, admire the yachts and fishing boats, watch the sunset, or hop on a boat and explore the nearby islands and coves. The harbour is also surrounded by cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink or a meal with a view.
Hidirlik Tower
If you are looking for a panoramic view of Kaleici and the Mediterranean Sea, you should head to Hidirlik Tower, the 14th-century stone tower that serves as a landmark and a lookout point. The tower was originally built as a lighthouse and a defensive structure, and it stands on a hill overlooking the harbour and the old town. You can climb up the tower and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, or relax in the park below and soak up the atmosphere.
Ancient City Walls
One of the most distinctive features of Kaleici is the ancient city walls that surrounded the old town in the past. The walls were built by various civilizations over the centuries, and they reflect the different styles and influences of each era. You can walk along the walls and see the gates, towers, bastions, and moats that protected Kaleici from invaders and enemies. You can also learn about the history and legends of the walls, such as the story of King Attalus, who founded Antalya in the 2nd century BC.
Ottoman Houses
If you want to experience the traditional Turkish architecture and lifestyle, you should visit the Ottoman houses, the colorful and charming houses that line the streets of Kaleici. The houses date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, and they feature wooden balconies, bay windows, tiled roofs, and flower gardens. Some of the houses have been converted into hotels, guesthouses, museums, or shops, where you can stay, learn, or shop. You can also admire the houses from the outside and take some beautiful photos.
Museums
If you are interested in the history, art, and culture of Kaleici and Antalya, you should check out the museums that showcase the rich and diverse heritage of the region. Some of the most popular museums in Kaleici are:
- Antalya Museum: the largest and most comprehensive museum in Antalya, where you can see thousands of artifacts from the prehistoric, ancient, and medieval periods, such as statues, mosaics, coins, jewelry, weapons, and more.
- Suna-Inan Kirac Kaleici Museum: a museum that displays the folk culture and traditions of Antalya, such as costumes, textiles, handicrafts, musical instruments, and more. The museum is housed in a restored Ottoman house, and it also features a courtyard, a cafe, and a library.
- Ataturk House Museum: a museum that honors the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who visited Antalya in 1930. The museum is located in a historic house where Ataturk stayed, and it exhibits his personal belongings, photos, documents, and more.
Parks
If you are looking for some green and peaceful spaces in Kaleici, you should visit the parks that offer relaxation and recreation. Some of the most beautiful parks in Kaleici are:
- Karaalioglu Park: a large and scenic park that stretches along the coast, where you can enjoy the views of the sea, the mountains, and the city. The park also has playgrounds, fountains, statues, and a tea garden.
- Yavuz Ozcan Park: a small and cozy park that is located in the center of Kaleici, where you can escape the crowds and noise. The park has benches, flowers, trees, and a pond with ducks and turtles.
- Ataturk Park: a historic and symbolic park that is situated near the harbour, where you can see the statue of Ataturk and the Turkish flag. The park is also a popular spot for festivals, concerts, and ceremonies.
Cafes and Restaurants
If you are hungry or thirsty after exploring Kaleici, you should try some of the cafes and restaurants that serve delicious Turkish cuisine and drinks. Some of the best cafes and restaurants in Kaleici are:
- Mermerli Restaurant: a restaurant that specializes in seafood and Mediterranean dishes, such as grilled fish, calamari, salads, and more. The restaurant is located next to the Mermerli Beach, and it has a terrace with a stunning view of the harbour.
- Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant: a restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with Turkish and international dishes, such as lamb chops, risotto, steak, and more. The restaurant is located in a historic mansion, and it has a romantic and elegant ambiance.
- Vanilla Lounge: a cafe that serves a variety of coffee, tea, smoothies, cakes, and more. The cafe is located in a charming Ottoman house, and it has a cozy and friendly atmosphere.
How to Get to Kaleici
Kaleici is located in the center of Antalya, and it is easy to reach from different locations, such as the airport, the bus station, the city center, etc. Here are some of the best ways to get to Kaleici:
From the Airport
The Antalya Airport is about 15 km away from Kaleici, and you can take a bus, a taxi, or a shuttle to get there. The bus number 600 runs every 30 minutes from the airport to the city center, and it costs 5 TL per person. You can get off at the Markantalya stop, and then walk for about 15 minutes to Kaleici. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the airport to Kaleici, which costs around 50 TL and takes about 20 minutes. You can also book a shuttle service online or at the airport, which costs around 25 TL per person and takes you directly to your hotel in Kaleici.
From the Bus Station
The Antalya Bus Station is about 10 km away from Kaleici, and you can take a tram, a taxi, or a dolmus (a shared minibus) to get there. The tram line T1 runs every 15 minutes from the bus station to the city center, and it costs 4 TL per person. You can get off at the Ismetpasa stop, and then walk for about 10 minutes to Kaleici. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the bus station to Kaleici, which costs around 30 TL and takes about 15 minutes. You can also take a dolmus from the bus station to Kaleici, which costs around 5 TL per person and takes about 20 minutes. You can find the dolmus at the exit of the bus station, and you can ask the driver to drop you off at Kaleici.
From the City Center
Kaleici is within walking distance from the city center, and you can easily find your way to the old town by following the signs or the map. You can also take a tram, a taxi, or a dolmus to get to Kaleici from the city center, which costs around 4 TL, 10 TL, or 3 TL per person, respectively. The tram line T1 runs every 15 minutes from the city center to Kaleici, and you can get off at the Ismetpasa stop. The taxi and the dolmus can take you to any point in Kaleici, and you can find them at the main streets or the squares in the city center.
Best Time to Visit Kaleici
Kaleici is a year-round destination, and you can visit it anytime you want. However, some seasons and months may be more suitable for your preferences and expectations. Here are some factors to consider when planning your visit to Kaleici:
- Weather: Antalya has a Mediterranean climate, and it enjoys warm and sunny weather throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 10°C in January to 28°C in August, and the average rainfall ranges from 20 mm in July to 210 mm in December. The best time to visit Kaleici for the weather is from April to October, when the temperature is pleasant and the rainfall is low. However, you should also be prepared for the heat and the humidity, especially in July and August, when the temperature can reach up to 40°C. You should also avoid visiting Kaleici in December and January, when the weather can be cold and rainy, and some of the attractions and activities may be closed or limited.
- Crowds: Antalya is a popular tourist destination, and it attracts millions of visitors every year. Kaleici is one of the most visited places in Antalya, and it can get crowded and busy, especially during the peak season. The peak season for Kaleici is from June to September, when the weather is hot and sunny, and the school holidays are on. You should expect to see long queues, high prices, and limited availability in Kaleici during this time. However, you can also enjoy the lively and festive atmosphere, and the variety of events and festivals that take place in Kaleici during this time. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed visit to Kaleici, you should go in the off-season, which is from October to May, when the weather is mild and the crowds are low. You can also find lower prices, better deals, and more availability in Kaleici during this time. However, you should also be aware of the shorter daylight hours, the cooler temperatures, and the occasional rainfalls that may affect your visit to Kaleici during this time.
Where to Stay in Kaleici
Kaleici offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, where you can enjoy the charm and comfort of the old town. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kaleici, according to your preferences and budget:
Budget
If you are looking for a cheap and cheerful place to stay in Kaleici, you should check out the hostels that offer dorms and private rooms, as well as shared facilities and amenities, such as bathrooms, kitchens, lounges, and wifi. Some of the best hostels in Kaleici are:
- Role Street Hostel: a cozy and friendly hostel that is located in the heart of Kaleici, near the Hadrian's Gate and the Roman Harbour. The hostel has a rooftop terrace with a view of the old town, and it offers free breakfast, tea, and coffee. The hostel has dorms and private rooms, and the prices start from 50 TL per night.
- Gold Coast Hostel: a modern and stylish hostel that is located in a quiet street in Kaleici, close to the Hidirlik Tower and the Karaalioglu Park. The hostel has a garden with a hammock and a barbecue, and it offers free breakfast, laundry, and bike rental. The hostel has dorms and private rooms, and the prices start from 60 TL per night.
- Sabah Pansiyon: a family-run and homely hostel that is located in a historic house in Kaleici, near the Suna-Inan Kirac Kaleici Museum and the Mermerli Beach. The hostel has a courtyard with a fountain and a restaurant, and it offers free breakfast, wifi, and airport shuttle. The hostel has dorms and private rooms, and the prices start from 70 TL per night.
Mid-range
If you are looking for a more comfortable and spacious place to stay in Kaleici, you should check out the guesthouses and hotels that offer private rooms and suites, as well as private facilities and amenities, such as bathrooms, air-conditioning, tv, and minibar. Some of the best guesthouses and hotels in Kaleici are:
- White Garden Hotel: a charming and elegant hotel that is located in a restored Ottoman house in Kaleici, near the Ataturk House Museum and the Yavuz Ozcan Park. The hotel has a pool, a sauna, and a massage room, and it offers free breakfast, wifi, and parking. The hotel has rooms and suites, and the prices start from 200 TL per night.
- Aspen Hotel: a boutique and luxurious hotel that is located in a historic mansion in Kaleici, near the Antalya Museum and the Ataturk Park. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi and a view of the sea, and it offers free breakfast, wifi, and airport shuttle. The hotel has rooms and suites, and the prices start from 250 TL per night.
- Tekeli Konaklari: a traditional and authentic hotel that is located in a complex of Ottoman houses in Kaleici, near the Hadrian's Gate and the Roman Harbour. The hotel has a garden with a pool and a cafe, and it offers free breakfast, wifi, and parking. The hotel has rooms and suites, and the prices start from 300 TL per night.
Luxury
If you are looking for a lavish and indulgent place to stay in Kaleici, you should check out the hotels that offer deluxe rooms and suites, as well as premium facilities and amenities, such as spas, gyms, restaurants, and bars. Some of the best hotels in Kaleici are:
- Tuvana Hotel: a classy and sophisticated hotel that is located in a historic mansion in Kaleici, near the Hidirlik Tower and the Karaalioglu Park. The hotel has a pool, a spa, and a fitness center, and it offers free breakfast, wifi, and parking. The hotel has rooms and suites, and the prices start from 400 TL per night.
- Alp Pasa Hotel: a romantic and exquisite hotel that is located in a complex of Ottoman houses in Kaleici, near the Suna-Inan Kirac Kaleici Museum and the Mermerli Beach. The hotel has a pool, a spa, and a restaurant, and it offers free breakfast, wifi, and airport shuttle. The hotel has rooms and suites, and the prices start from 500 TL per night.
- Puding Marina Residence: a stylish and contemporary hotel that is located in a renovated house in Kaleici, near the Antalya Museum and the Ataturk Park. The hotel has a pool, a spa, and a bar, and it offers free breakfast, wifi, and parking. The hotel has rooms and suites, and the prices start from 600 TL per night.
Conclusion
Kaleici is a fascinating and enchanting place to visit in Antalya, where you can experience the history, culture, and architecture of Turkey. You can explore the old town and see the amazing sights, such as Hadrian's Gate, the Roman Harbour, the Hidirlik Tower, and more. You can also enjoy the modern amenities and services, such as the museums, parks, cafes, and restaurants. You can also find the best accommodation options, from hostels to hotels, where you can relax and unwind.
Here are some tips and recommendations for making the most of your visit to Kaleici:
- Pack light and comfortable clothes and shoes, as you will be walking a lot in Kaleici. You should also bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle, as the weather can be hot and sunny, especially in the summer.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and dress modestly when visiting the mosques, museums, and other religious or historical sites. You should also avoid drinking alcohol or smoking in public places, as they are prohibited or frowned upon in Turkey.
- Bargain and haggle when shopping in the markets, bazaars, and souvenir shops in Kaleici, as it is expected and part of the fun. You can also find some unique and authentic items, such as carpets, ceramics, jewelry, spices, and more.
- Try some of the delicious and diverse Turkish cuisine and drinks in Kaleici, such as kebabs, baklava, Turkish coffee, and ayran. You can also sample some of the local specialties, such as piyaz (a bean salad), tandir (a roasted lamb dish), and serpme borek (a layered pastry with cheese and spinach).
