Antalya, set along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is a city of breathtaking beauty. With its turquoise waters, golden beaches, ancient ruins, and charming old towns, it offers the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery. For Saudi travellers seeking a family-friendly escape that blends culture, nature, and comfort, Antalya stands out as an ideal choice. From where to stay and what to see to the best local flavours and travel tips, here’s how to make the most of your week in this unforgettable coastal gem!
Antalya welcomes visitors with a warm atmosphere that blends Turkish tradition and genuine hospitality. The strong family values and respectful nature of the local culture offer a comforting sense of familiarity, especially for Saudi travellers. Beyond its welcoming spirit, Antalya’s appeal is also practical, as direct flights make it both conveniently close and culturally relatable.
The food, customs, and way of life often feel familiar, yet the setting offers something refreshingly different. Antalya offers a diverse holiday experience, with everything from luxury beach resorts to stunning natural canyons and fascinating ancient ruins. Adventure, shopping, nature, and history all come together in one relaxed Mediterranean destination.
Start your first full day exploring Kaleiçi, the old town of Antalya. It’s a charming area with Ottoman houses, antique shops, mosques, and small art galleries. One of the highlights is Hadrian’s Gate, an ancient Roman archway built in honour of Emperor Hadrian’s visit. Walk down to the old harbour where you’ll find colourful boats and open-air restaurants. This area is especially beautiful at sunset. You can also take a short boat trip along the coastline for a different view of the city.
On day two, visit the Antalya Museum. It houses some of the country’s most valuable historical artefacts, including Roman sculptures, ancient coins, and mosaics. In the afternoon, head to Düden Waterfalls. The upper falls offer peaceful nature walks, while the lower falls plunge dramatically into the sea—perfect for photos and a cool escape from the sun.
A day trip to Perge and Aspendos is a must. Perge is an ancient Roman city located about 30 minutes from Antalya. Walk through the remains of ancient streets, a grand theatre, a stadium, and Roman baths. It’s a perfect spot for history lovers and those wanting to see Türkiye’s past come to life.
After Perge, continue to Aspendos. The Roman theatre here is one of the best-preserved in the world. The acoustics are so good that concerts are still held here today. If you’re feeling relaxed afterward, spend the late afternoon back at your hotel or take a dip at Konyaaltı Beach. The pebbled shore and clear waters offer a calm place to wind down. Small cafés and restaurants nearby serve fresh seafood and juices.
Antalya is not just about beaches, it’s surrounded by the Taurus Mountains, offering spectacular nature and thrilling views. Take a trip to Mount Tahtalı via the Olympos Teleferik cable car. In just a few minutes, you’ll rise over 2,000 metres above sea level. The panoramic views of the sea and mountains are unforgettable.
On your way back, make a stop in the coastal village of Kemer. This charming town features a lovely harbour, clean sandy beaches, and cosy seaside restaurants, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing lunch. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the ancient city of Phaselis. Set beside the sea and surrounded by pine forests, these peaceful ruins offer a perfect setting for a picnic or a refreshing swim in one of the quiet coves.
On day five, venture into Antalya’s countryside for a change of pace. Drive to Sapadere Canyon, a natural wonder about two hours away. Wooden walkways let you explore the gorge safely, passing waterfalls and natural pools. The air is cooler here, making it a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
After Sapadere, continue to the village of Çıralı. It’s a quiet place with small hotels and a beautiful beach. The nearby ruins of Olympos blend history with nature in a magical way. Walk among ancient stones overgrown with vines, and watch turtles nesting on the beach. Many visitors enjoy spending a night in Çıralı for a taste of rural tranquillity.
Spend your sixth day exploring the more relaxed and cultural side of Antalya. Visit a local vineyard or olive oil farm in the region’s fertile hills. You’ll learn about traditional farming, enjoy a tour of the estate, and have the chance to sample local products. Back in the city, visit a traditional Turkish market or bazaar. Try some local foods like simit (sesame bread rings), Turkish delight, and seasonal fruits.
You’ll find handmade textiles, carpets, leather goods, and ceramics—all excellent souvenirs to bring home. If you’re interested in art or crafts, stop by one of Antalya’s small galleries or workshops. Many local artists sell paintings, jewellery, and woodwork inspired by the region’s nature and heritage.
On your final day, take it slow. Return to your favourite beach, go for a quiet walk in the park, or have lunch at a seaside restaurant. Many visitors enjoy a final Turkish bath (hamam) to relax before their journey home. This centuries-old spa tradition includes steam rooms, scrubs, and massages. In the evening, find a rooftop restaurant with views of the city or sea. Toast your journey with a cool glass of pomegranate juice and reflect on the many memories you’ve made.
To wrap up your journey, consider exploring beyond Antalya with even more travel ideas and destination inspiration across the country. For more tips on how to plan the perfect Turkish getaway, check out Turkey Itinerary Tips for a Memorable Vacation.
Renting a car is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to explore Antalya, especially for tourists who value privacy, flexibility, and ease of travel. With Final Rentals, you can move freely between historic sites, natural wonders, and beach resorts without the constraints of group tours or fixed schedules.
For more helpful tips, check out Master the Roads of Turkey with Essential Car Rental Tips for Beginners.
Antalya’s food scene is a treat for all tastes. The city blends Mediterranean and Turkish flavours in every meal. Start your day with a Turkish breakfast that includes olives, white cheese, eggs, fresh tomatoes, and honey with clotted cream. For lunch, enjoy stuffed vine leaves, or manti, Turkish dumplings with yoghurt sauce. Dinner often features fresh seafood like grilled fish, calamari, and prawns. Vegetarian dishes are easy to find, and most meals come with rice, flatbread, and a variety of small appetisers.
Sweet treats like baklava, künefe, and lokum (Turkish delight) are widely loved. Pair these with Turkish coffee or fresh fruit juice.When it comes to shopping, visit the local bazaars for traditional goods. Turkish towels, carpets, leather handbags, and handmade jewellery are great choices. Remember to bargain gently and respectfully, it’s part of the culture. To dive deeper into Turkey’s rich food culture and discover must-try dishes from across the country, check out Turkish Delights: Culinary Adventures and Must-Try Dishes Across the Country.
The best time to visit Antalya is between April and October. During these months, the weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the beaches are perfect. July and August are the hottest and most popular months, while spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. For Saudi tourists, the early summer and post-Ramadan period are ideal times to travel. Many resorts offer halal options, and Antalya’s relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy the trip at your own pace.
Antalya is more than just a beach town, it’s a vibrant mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and hospitality. From the old city to the coastal cliffs, the ancient ruins to the modern markets, Antalya invites you to explore every corner. For Saudi tourists, it offers the right mix of comfort and adventure. Whether you’re relaxing by the sea, walking through Roman ruins, or tasting Turkish dishes under the stars, every day brings new experiences. With Final Rentals, you can rent a car in Turkey and explore Antalya with freedom, privacy, and ease. Let your journey unfold at your own pace, one road, one meal, and one sunset at a time!
