Antalya 7-Day Itinerary: The Perfect Weekly Guide for First-Time Visitors

With seven days in Antalya, you’ve got the sweet spot for a proper holiday. One week is enough to explore Turkey’s Mediterranean gems without feeling rushed, yet short enough to stay focused. This itinerary balances the best of Antalya’s city life (ancient sites, waterfalls, boat trips) with day excursions to Side, Alanya, Kemer, and—if you’re game—the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.

This guide covers both DIY flexibility (pick your own hotels and daily tours) and bundled multi-day packages that take the guesswork out. Whether you’re travelling with a partner, with friends, or solo, there’s a rhythm here that works.

DAY 1: ANTALYA CITY EXPLORATION & WATERFALLS

Morning: Arrive at Antalya Airport and settle into your hotel in either Kaleiçi (Old Town) or Lara Beach, depending on your vibe. Kaleiçi is charming but touristy; Lara is more resort-heavy but beachy. Both are well-connected.

Afternoon: Head to the Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi) for a walk through narrow Ottoman streets, past Hadrian’s Gate, and along the Roman harbor. Stop at a waterfront café for lunch—try the local sea bass (levrek) grilled whole.

Evening: Visit the Lower Düden Waterfall, where water cascades directly into the Mediterranean. The boat ride to see it from the sea is magical and usually included in combo tours. Sunset here is unbeatable.

Local Tip: Bring swimwear if you plan to swim at the waterfall stops. The water is crisp but refreshing, even in summer.

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DAY 2: PERGE, ASPENDOS & SIDE ANCIENT TOUR

Full Day Excursion: This is arguably the best multi-site day trip from Antalya. You’ll visit three Roman-era cities in one day.

Start with Perge, a sprawling ancient city with a stunning theater and marble-paved main street (the Colonnaded Street). Marvel at the well-preserved Aspendos Theatre, one of the world’s best-preserved amphitheaters still used for concerts. Finish in Side, where the Temple of Apollo overlooks the beach—Instagram gold.

Lunch is usually included and features grilled fish or Turkish kebab at a local spot.

Evening in Side: If energy permits, stay in Side for dinner. The beachfront restaurants range from budget-friendly to upscale, and the sunset views rival anything in Antalya proper. Read more in our full Side Travel Guide.

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DAY 3: KEMER, SULUADA & MEDITERRANEAN COAST

Morning to Afternoon: Head to Kemer (about 40 km south). The drive itself is scenic, hugging the pine-forested coast.

Once in Kemer, book a boat trip to Suluada (aka Turkish Maldives)—turquoise waters, white sand, pristine coves. The boat usually makes 2–3 stops for swimming. Snorkeling is possible if you bring gear (or rent locally). Lunch on board often features fresh grilled fish.

For a less touristy vibe, explore the Kemer promenade, visit the small turtle beach sanctuary, or book a jeep safari into the Taurus Mountains.

Where to Stay in Kemer: Budget-friendly to 5-star resorts dot the waterfront. For a balance of comfort and value, mid-range all-inclusives in Kemer are excellent. More details in our Best Hotels in Kemer.

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DAY 4: BELEK OR ALANYA (CHOOSE ONE)

Option A: Belek & Land of Legends

Belek is known for golf and all-inclusive family resorts. If you’re not golfing, the main draw is Land of Legends theme park (a Turkish take on Disneyland) or water parks. It’s less historically rich than other areas but great for a relaxed day away from crowds.

Option B: Alanya

Alanya, 1.5 hours east of Antalya, is a working beach town with a castle perched on a clifftop, boat trips to sea caves, and a lively atmosphere. The Red Tower and shipyard ruins are historically significant, and the waterfront is lined with casual fish restaurants.

From Alanya, you can book a boat tour to swim in secluded coves or explore the Green Canyon (a freshwater river canyon perfect for kayaking or boat tours).

DAY 5: PAMUKKALE DAY TRIP (OR REST DAY)

Pamukkale is one of Turkey’s wonders: terraced white travertine pools descending a mountainside, thermal springs, and the ruins of Hierapolis ancient city.

Warning: Pamukkale is a looong drive (6–7 hours each way) but doable as a day trip from Antalya, starting at 3–4 AM. Many people combine it with an overnight stay for a more relaxed pace, but a 1-day tour works if you’re keen. Includes entrance fees, lunch, and usually a dip in Cleopatra’s thermal pool.

Alternative (Day 5 Rest): If the Pamukkale drive feels like too much, stay in Antalya or Side for a beach day, Turkish bath (hamam), or shopping in the bazaar.

Pro Tip: Wear water shoes—the travertine is rough and can be slippery. Bring a hat and sunscreen; there’s minimal shade.

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DAY 6: ÇIRALΙ & OLYMPOS (NATURE & HISTORY)

Head west into a more rugged, nature-focused Antalya. Çıralı and Olympos are quieter beach villages known for:

• Caretta-caretta sea turtle nesting (seasonal, best June–August)
• Çıralı Beach: a pristine 3 km stretch with few crowds
• Olympos Ancient City ruins overlooking the beach
• Chimera eternal flames (best at dusk, when natural gas vents glow)

Many travelers stay overnight here to fully absorb the vibe—treehouse hotels and small boutique guesthouses are a big draw. If you’re day-tripping from Antalya, book a morning driver to drop you, then pick you up in the evening.

DAY 7: CAPPADOCIA OVERNIGHT TOUR (OR RETURN TO ANTALYA)

Option A: 2-Day Cappadocia Extension

If you have the energy, book a 2-day Cappadocia tour from Antalya. You’ll get an early morning pickup, a scenic 6-hour drive to the lunar landscape of Cappadocia, exploration of underground cities and rock-carved churches, and overnight in a unique cave hotel. Day 2 includes a hot air balloon ride at sunrise (optional add-on, highly recommended), then return to Antalya.

Cost: $60–$150 depending on hotel and balloon inclusion.

Option B: Relaxed Antalya Finale

Spend Day 7 back in Antalya proper. Revisit a favorite beach, enjoy a final Turkish bath, shop the Old Town bazaar, or just lounge by the pool at your hotel before an evening flight.

Logistics: If you’re flying out on Day 7 evening, Cappadocia isn’t feasible. Save it for a 3+ day trip or choose the Antalya finale option.

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WHERE TO STAY: HOTEL GUIDE

City Centre (Kaleiçi)

Historic charm, walking distance to restaurants and shops, but can be noisy. Best for first-timers and couples.

Lara Beach

Resort-heavy, quiet, family-friendly. 15 mins from city centre. Best for an all-inclusive or beach-focused stay.

Kemer

Lively resort town, great for active travelers. Boat trips, water sports, nightlife.

Belek

Golf and all-inclusive paradise. Less historic but luxurious and well-organized.

Side or Alanya

If you want to base yourself in a different town and day-trip back to Antalya.

More Hotel Guides:

• Best Hotels in Side
• Best Hotels in Alanya
• Best Hotels in Kemer
• Best Hotels in Belek
• Best Hotels in Kaş

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PRACTICAL TIPS

Transportation: Hotels arrange airport pickups for ~€15–€20 per person. Dolmuş (shared minibuses) connect towns for €3–€5. Rent a car if you want flexibility, but tour pickups are hassle-free.

Best Time: April–May and September–October for warm weather and smaller crowds. July–August is hot and packed.

Money: Turkish Lira, but EUR and USD accepted everywhere. ATMs plentiful.

Language: English widely spoken in tourist areas; a few Turkish phrases go a long way.

Food: Meze (small plates), grilled fish, kebabs, Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı) are must-tries. Budget €5–€15 for casual meals.