Antalya Historic Places – Ancient Cities, Castles & Old Town Charm in the Turkish Riviera

Antalya is one of Türkiye’s most famous tourist destinations, known for stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and beautiful nature. But beyond the coastline, the city offers thousands of years of history, including Roman cities, Ottoman districts, ancient temples, and historic theaters. Travelers can explore well-preserved ruins, old ports, and UNESCO heritage sites.

Here are the top historic places to visit in Antalya:

🏰 1. Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi)

The heart of Antalya’s history.

🏘 Narrow stone streets and Ottoman houses
⛵ Old Harbor and marina views
🕌 Mosques, churches, clock towers, museums
📸 Perfect for shopping, cafes, photos & walking

A magical journey through Ottoman and Roman times.

🏛️ 2. Hadrian’s Gate

Antalya’s most famous landmark.

🏛 Built in 130 AD for Emperor Hadrian
🧱 Three marble arches with Roman design
📍 Entrance to Kaleiçi Old Town
📸 Stunning location for photography

One of the best-preserved Roman gates in Türkiye.

🎭 3. Aspendos Ancient Theater

One of the greatest Roman theaters in the world.

🎭 Built in the 2nd century
💺 Seating for 15,000 people
🎶 Hosts concerts & festivals today
📍 Near Serik district

Incredible acoustics and perfectly preserved architecture.

🏛️ 4. Perge Ancient City

A massive archaeological site full of Roman history.

🏛 Stadium, theater & marble streets
🧱 Ancient baths, gates, columns & towers
📍 Only 18 km from Antalya
📸 Amazing place for history lovers and photographers

Walking through Perge feels like traveling back in time.

🏛️ 5. Termessos Ancient City

A mystical ancient city high in the mountains.

⛰ Built 1,000 meters above sea level
🎭 Theater with mountain views
🧱 Temples, tombs & ancient walls
🌳 Located inside a national park

A unique historical and natural escape.

🚌 6. Olympos Ancient City

A historic city inside a lush green valley.

🌿 Ruins near the river and forest
🏛 Roman baths, necropolis & ancient roads
🔥 Close to the famous Chimera Eternal Flames
🏖 Near Olympos beach and treehouse hotels

Perfect for nature and adventure travelers.

🏰 7. Alanya Castle

A historical fortress overlooking the Mediterranean.

🏰 Built by Seljuk Empire in the 13th century
🧱 6 km of historic stone walls
🌊 Panoramic view of Alanya & Cleopatra Beach
📸 Popular spot for photos

Full of towers, old houses, and sea views.

🕌 8. Yivli Minaret Mosque

A symbol of Antalya city.

🕌 13th-century Seljuk architecture
🧱 Brick design with fluted minaret
📍 Located in Kaleiçi
📸 One of Antalya’s most recognizable landmarks

Surrounded by bazaars and historic buildings.

🗿 9. Arykanda Ancient City

A hidden archaeological treasure.

⛰ On the side of a mountain
🏛 Theater, agora, tombs & stadium
📷 Less crowded and great for explorers

A peaceful ancient city with breathtaking nature.

🏛️ 10. Side Ancient City

A famous Roman port city.

🏛 Temple of Apollo by the sea
🎭 Ancient theater for 20,000 people
🧱 Ruins, museums & marble streets
🌅 Sunset point by the Mediterranean

A magical blend of beach and history.

✅ Why Visit Historic Places in Antalya?

✔ Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage
✔ Castles, temples, theaters, and ancient cities
✔ Many sites with sea views and amazing nature
✔ Easy transportation from tourist resorts
✔ Perfect for families, couples, and history lovers