Exploring Antalya with Kids: A Family Adventure in the Heart of the Turkish Riviera
Are you dreaming of turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and unforgettable family memories? Look no further than Antalya, Turkey! Nestled along the stunning Turkish Riviera, Antalya offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate both parents and kids alike. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best activities to enjoy with your little ones in Antalya, including how to get to the beautiful beaches in the old town and where to stay for an unforgettable family vacation.
Discovering the Old Town Beaches
Antalya’s old town, also known as Kaleiçi, is a treasure trove of narrow streets, historic architecture, and charming atmosphere. But did you know it’s also home to some of the city’s most family-friendly beaches? Follow the scent of salty sea air and the sound of crashing waves to discover these hidden gems.
If you are going to visit the Old Town, you will begin your journey at the famous “Hadrian’s Gate” (it is the only entrance left to enter into the old city). The gate has served as an entrance for about 1900 years and if you look really closely, you can actually even see old traces of carriage wheels still carved into the ground. Jack’s favorite part of strolling through Old Town was definitely all the fresh squeezed orange juice. It was very hot, and this yummy treat made the perfect refreshment!
Karaalioglu Park Beach
Located just a stone’s throw from the old town, Karaalioglu Park Beach offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its soft sands, shallow waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean, it’s the perfect spot for families to relax and play. The park offers an urban green space with a panoramic balcony offering sea views & the ruins of a Roman stone tower. There are basketball courts, picnic tables, restrooms, a playground, everything you need for a perfect day for kids!
Mermerli Beach
Tucked away beneath the ancient city walls, Mermerli Beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Kids will love exploring the rocky shoreline, splashing in the gentle waves, and marveling at the towering cliffs that frame the beach. It’s pretty small….and it doesn’t have any sand, just rocks and wooden platforms, but it does have waiters walking around and a gorgeous view. The only downside is that is does cost about 40 Turkish Lira. We spent time here and loved it!
Exploring Antalya with Kids:
antalya, Turkey
*Hadrian’s Gate Beach*: For a truly unique beach experience, head to Hadrian’s Gate Beach, where ancient history meets modern-day fun. Situated just outside the iconic Hadrian’s Gate, this beach offers calm waters and plenty of amenities, making it ideal for families with young children.
**Where to Stay**
When it comes to finding the perfect accommodation for your family getaway, Antalya has no shortage of options. From luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Here are a few family-friendly options to consider:
Liberty Hotels Lara
This all-inclusive resort is a paradise for families, with its spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and convenient location near Lara Beach. Parents can relax by the pool while kids splash in the water park or join in the daily activities organized by the hotel’s friendly staff.
Alp Pasa Hotel
For a more intimate experience, consider staying at the Alp Pasa Hotel in the heart of Kaleiçi. This charming boutique hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms, a tranquil courtyard garden, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
Akra Hotel
Located on the seafront, this 5-star hotel is set in the city center where you can enjoy the lively streets of the city accompanied by the calm and warm atmosphere of the Mediterranean landscape. We stayed here and it was amazing! Perfect location, pools were fantastic, so many amenities and the most lovely and helpful staff! The food at the hotel was so delicious we stayed there to eat several meals.
Visit Düden Şelalesi (Upper düden waterfall)
In Antalya, there are actually two Düden waterfalls. The upper falls are located in a beautiful green area and you can easily spend an hour exploring the area. Entrance is 5TL per person. Make sure you check the opening hours though before visiting, it can vary!
Düden Şelalesi has more to offer than just the waterfall. It is a big, beautiful park with various restaurants….you can get food, or you can even bring your own snack or food and have a picnic there. Besides that, there are caves that you can explore, one even brings you behind the waterfall.
Final Thoughts
From sun-soaked beaches to ancient ruins, Antalya offers a wealth of opportunities for family fun and adventure….and with a small budget! You can pretty much do all the similar activities that you’d do on the Amalfi coast or French Riviera, for 1/2 the price! Whether you’re exploring the old town, renting a boat to cruise around the harbor, or splashing in the surf and simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, gather your little ones, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in the heart of Turkey….where the only thing nicer than the views, are the Turkish people.
Happy Travels!
Happy Travels!
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