Antalya holidays

Antalya is the gateway to the pleasures of the eastern coastal region of Turkey known as the Turkish Riviera...

This lovely stretch of coast might attract swimwear-clad visitors in their droves today, but this region is massively significant in history, as people from all over the ancient world arrived to stake their claim on the land. There's a host of sites to visit and car hire is an excellent idea if you plan to see more than just the beach or the pool during your holidays here. 

The resorts around Antalya range from quiet fishing villages to areas filled with luxury all-inclusive hotels. There is accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets and all age groups. Families, groups and couples will all be warmly welcomed in this sizzling tourist destination. Resorts to select from include Belek, Aksu, Side, Manavgat, Konakli, Beldibi, Goynuk, Kemer, Kiris, Lara Beach, and Tekirova. 

The city of Antalya is also a popular choice for holidaymakers as there is a marina and many cafés and restaurants lining the broad streets where palm trees grow.

Those seeking peace and solitude, plus a beauty treatment or a massage, will be spoiled rotten with a choice of spa hotels in the Antalya region, while golfers will be able to swing their way around one of the many fine courses the region offers. 

Sipping cocktails by the pool or splashing about in the waves are popular ways to spend precious holiday time in Antalya, but there are a number of very good reasons to get out and about and see some of the region's attractions.

Side was an ancient Greek city and visitors make their way here to see the remains of the Temple of Apollo. Perge is another ancient Greek city. The city's ruins can be seen alongside a Bronze Age acropolis. Another former Greek stronghold, Aspendos, was a Roman city too, and the spectacular Roman theatre testifies to its fascinating history.

Myra, formerly Demre, features an ancient Greek theatre and tombs cut into the cliffs, and Olympos is home to fantastic beaches and Roman baths.

Going back even further in time, the prehistoric Karain Cave is another tourist attraction worth seeing, while the more modern 13th-century medieval Alanya Castle also attracts crowds. 

Natural wonders get rave reviews around Antalya too. The white cliffs of Pamukkale have been shaped by the hot springs that bubble up here and there are terraces made of minerals to marvel at. 

On the nearby island of Kekova, there's evidence of a sunken city, and divers can pay to explore the watery ruins.

Add all of this to the majestic Taurus Mountains, which loom over the region and provide not only hiking opportunities, but also the chance to ski in winter, and you can see why Antalya holidays are popular at any time of the year for holidaymakers who are keen to have it all. 

Flights arrive at Antalya Airport (AYT) following a flight time of around five hours. From there, the treasures of Turkey's coast are within easy reach for holidaymakers seeking the perfect mix of sun, sea, sand and a great big splash of ancient history. 

Whether you are looking for cheap deals on self-catering breaks or all-inclusive holidays to Antalya, use the TravelSupermarket search tool to discover what's available when you want to go.

The Turkish Riviera on which Antalya sits is blessed with a wonderful climate and makes for great holiday territory...

Antalya sizzles in summer with temperatures rising past 30C. Spring is pleasant, when temperatures push past 18C, with the same kind of weather in autumn, when the sea has heated during the summer. 

Winter is mild and can be wet. Most package holidays tend to operate from around March through to late November and outside these months you will find most of the hotels, restaurants and resort shopping closed.

Make more of your break by visiting the Antalya region when one of these events is taking place...

Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival June/July:  The ancient Roman theatre is the impressive setting for this annual festival of music and dance.

Antalya Honey Festival August:  Celebrate the region's famous sweet export with fun and festivities in the Gundogmus area of Antalya. 

Antalya Festival September:  Party for 18 days with the locals as they celebrate all that is great about the culture and traditions of Antalya.

Looking for things to do while on holiday in Antalya? Here are some top suggestions...

Relaxing: If your idea of the perfect holiday is to flop on the beach with a good book and a long cooling drink, Antalya won't disappoint. With a variety of sandy stretches to choose from such as Lara Beach and Kaputas Beach, you'll be feeling revived and re-charged in no time.

Romance: The stunning Duden Waterfalls offer the perfect setting for romance. Pack a picnic and, for a more impressive view, take a boat trip from the harbour.

Grown-up families: Koprulu Canyon National Park offers a range of activities for adventurous families. Canyon walking, white-water rafting, abseiling, trekking and jeep safaris - which one do you and the family fancy?