“City of charm & glamorous atmosphere”.
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Where is Antalya?
The city of Antalya is located on Anatolia’s southwest coast bordered by the Taurus Mountains.
Getting there
Our journey from Kas to Antalya was on the bus.
Our accommodation
Whilst Antalya we chose to stay at the Nensies Boutique Hotel, booked through Booking.com. A charming hotel full of character, situated in the Kaleici district of the city.
Places of interest
Only being in Antalya for an overnight stop, we hadn’t planned to go sightseeing. Luckily for us, Antalya’s historic buildings are found along the narrow, winding streets of Kaleiçi, in the old quarter. Our accommodation was also located in this area. so we were able to do an afternoon of sightseeing.
Fascinatingly historic and unfalteringly charming. The cobbled streets are lined with Ottoman houses, shops, galleries, restaurants and boutique hotels. Not to mention the historical monuments.
Kecili Park
A 1 min walk from Nensies, is Kecili Park. A great little park with a fountain and wooden sculptures. The glass viewing platform offers great views overlooking the harbour and Mermerli beach below. Some steep steps lead down the hillside to the city centre beach. Access to Mermerli beach is via the restaurant, who charge a fee. Carry on down the steps and you get to-
Liman Seyitlik
The observation deck on the quay of the Old City marina. The marina is a lovely crescent-shape. If you are there at the right time, see the fishermen sell their catch of the day. Look up from where you have just come from and get a special view of the landmarks.
Kirk Merdiven
Walk around the marina, immersing yourself in the surroundings of the luxurious yachts, traditional fishing boats and the charming backdrop of quaint terracotta-roofed houses. Head up the steep staircase of 44 stone steps which provides one of the major walking routes between the Old City marina and Kaleiçi. It feels like 444 steps as you ascend them!
Karatay Medresesi
Having got our breath back. We made our way through the narrow streets to the remnants of Karatay Medresesi a 13th-century school with a courtyard.
Yivli Minare
The Alaaddin Mosque or Yivli Minare Mosque, was the next historical monument visited on our walk through the Old City.
Republic Square
A short walk from Yivli Minare Mosque and we were at the Republic Square. At the very heart of the city, its main focal point is the striking Ataturk Monument, honouring Kemal Ataturk, the founder of Turkey.
From the great vantage point, take in the wonderful views across the marina below.
Hadrian’s Gate
An 8 min walk from Republic Square is Hadrian’s Gate. The unmistakable main entrance into Kaleiçi. Built to commemorate the visit of Emperor Hadrian to the city.
The gate is part of the best-preserved Hellenistic and Roman town walls in the world.