Antalya, Turkey’s second most popular holiday destination and a cosmopolitan hub for many nationalities, offers an endless array of attractions. From ancient ruins and dramatic natural landscapes to vibrant markets, sailing trips and cultural festivals, deciding what to do first can be overwhelming.
Many guidebooks highlight the old town and the historical site of Aspendos, but the wider Antalya region holds even more impressive sights if you travel a little farther from the city center. If your time is limited, stay in a centrally located hotel and visit the main highlights. If you have several days or are returning, consider these three remarkable places that showcase the region’s natural beauty and rich history.
3 Surreal Places to Visit in Antalya, Turkey
Majestic Mount Tahtali: King of the Region
Located near the beach resort of Kemer, Mount Tahtali—once known in myth as Olympos—may not look imposing from below, but the experience of ascending to its summit is unforgettable. A 15-minute cable car ride delivers a sweeping 360-degree panorama of the Antalya coastline and the Taurus Mountains. The project behind the cable car uses the slogan “From Sky to Sea,” because at certain times of year visitors can ski on the slopes and then descend to swim in the Mediterranean on the same day.
The cable car runs regularly, and for thrill-seekers there are alternative ways to descend, such as tandem paragliding, which provides a dramatic and scenic end to the mountain experience.
Myth and Fire: The Eternal Flames of Chimaera
The Chimaera flames, known locally as Yanartaş, are a striking natural phenomenon that inspired ancient myths. For centuries sailors and locals believed the fires were produced by the mythical Chimaera creature. Modern science has shown the flames are caused by methane and other gases seeping from the rock and igniting on contact with air.
The best time to visit is after sunset, when the flickering flames are most visible. Be prepared: the uphill walk can be steep and the path is dimly lit, so bring a torch and wear sturdy shoes. Visitor reactions vary—some find the flames magical, others feel they receive more hype than substance—yet the site remains a memorable and atmospheric stop.
Fairytale Ruins: Olympos
The ancient ruins of Olympos, adjacent to a rustic, bohemian village of the same name, feel like a scene from a fairy tale. Excavated churches, homes and temples sit among dense forest, creating a mysterious atmosphere where you could easily lose your way without a map. Wander the shaded paths and imagine life in this coastal city centuries ago.
At the entrance stands the sarcophagus of Captain Eudemos, a richly decorated tomb that hints at the status of the man buried there. An inscription evokes the fleeting nature of life and seafaring, a poetic reminder of the town’s maritime heritage:
“The ship sailed into harbor and anchored to leave no more,
As there was no longer any hope from the wind or daylight,
After the light carried by the dawn had left Captain Eudemos,
There buried the ship with a life as short as a day, like a broken wave.”
If you can explore further west, visit the historic town of Demre, home to the church of Saint Nicholas—better known today as the inspiration for Santa Claus. Saint Nicholas was born in nearby Patara and later served as bishop of Myra (now Demre). His life and legacy are part of the region’s rich tapestry of history and legend.
Antalya’s mix of myth, history and natural beauty makes it an exceptional base for exploring southern Turkey. Whether you prefer panoramic mountain views, mysterious eternal flames, or atmospheric ancient ruins, these sites offer memorable experiences beyond the city center for visitors willing to venture a little farther afield.
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