Kaleici Antalya

Kaleiçi, the historic city centre of Antalya has structures dating from many eras;  Roman , Byzantine , Seljuk , Ottoman and modern Republic of Turkey .  Kaleici (“Inside the Kale or Inner Kale - Kale itself means castle or fortress) is located in the eastern centre part of the city along the coast although originally the entire city was within its walls.  The harbour dates back to Roman times and has undergone full restoration to the quay and harbour walls.

Antalya Ulu Mosque

Antalya Ulu Mosque (Grand Mosque), also called Yivli Minare Mosque (Fluted Minaret Mosque), was built in the 13th century by a Seljuk Sultan and is today a symbol of the city. The adjacent mosque, still in use today, has an open air café with great views over the bay.

Hadrian's Gate

The Hadrian's Gate, (Üçkapılar in Turkish meaning The Three Gates ) built to honour the Roman emperor Hadrian, who visited Antalya in the year 130 and it’s also said the Queen of Sheba passed through the gates on her way to visit King Solomon.  

Mediterranean Civilisations Research Institute

In the old town there are many renovated Ottoman houses that have become pansiyons, shops, restaurants and bars and well sign-posted is the mediterranean Civilisations Research Institute. This comprises of two restored Ottoman homes and exhibits part of the private collection belonging to Turkey’s richest Koç family, who sponsor the institute and houses a fabulous library of books on archaeology and antiquities.

Archaeological Museum

Also not to be missed is the Archaeological Museum with one of the top five collections in Turkey.  

Beaches close to Kaleici

Daily Boat Tours

From the harbour there are a variety of boats trips on offer, full and half day, which all take in the Duden Waterfalls and local beaches.  

Konyaalti Beach

Konyaalti Beach, situated between Antalya’s cliffs and Beydağları Mountains, is shingle, clean and well maintained with free entry. It has a nice promenade with cafés backing onto the beach and can be reached using the tram.  

Lara Beach

Lara Beach 10km southeast of town using the dolmus, has fine sand and a small fee is charged for entry here.  

Kursunlu Waterfalls

The high cascading water of Kursunlu waterfalls, 18km northeast of Antalya, are accessible by bus or dolmus.