05-08-2025
Why Antalya offers a world-class sunshine getaway
The dramatic landscapes and vibrant culture that Türkiye (Turkey) is loved for meld with a raft of sublime beaches and stunning nature in Antalya, a province that attracts an array of in-the-know holidaymakers to the country's southwestern shores. Known by many as the Turquoise Coast, this destination has everything you need from a sunshine holiday: heart-stealing sandy beaches, boat trips that lead you to undiscovered coves and scenic treks that take in pristine nature, caves and waterfalls. Thanks to Antalya's long hours of sunshine, it's a prime spot for golfers too, with Belek now recognised as Türkiye's leading golf resort.
At the heart of all this is Antalya's namesake city whose beautiful Old Town of Kaleiçi, with its ancient harbour, is a delight to explore. It's here, among the souvenir shops and lively cafes you might stumble upon a traditional Turkish restaurant, known here as a meyhane, its tables spilling out onto atmospheric cobbled streets.
If you're keen to explore Antalya, book your trip with British Airways Holidays and benefit from regular direct British Airways flights, a range of hotel options and a generous baggage allowance. You'll also receive Atol protection from the moment you book, and can secure your holiday with a low deposit and flexible payment options*. All British Airways Holidays customers have access to a 24/7 holiday helpline, giving you the peace of mind to relax and enjoy your holiday.
Things to do in Antalya
Antalya's natural beauty is one of its finest attributes and exploring some of its 200-plus Blue Flag Beaches is a must. Coastal spots like Kemer and Beldibi treat you to long, clean arcs of sand and gently shelving waters. You'll find an array of watersports options across the region's beaches too, with the precipitous Taurus Mountains providing a captivating backdrop.
Across these summits, plunging valleys and a network of ancient footpaths are bound to unlock your adventurous spirit. Its Köprülü Canyon is a spectacular place to enjoy river rafting and kayaking while The Lycian Way – a 540km-long walking route from Ölüdeniz in Muğla, famous for its lagoon, to Antalya's village of Geyikbayırı – unearths pine-clad scenery, cedar forests and ancient Lycian ruins. One section takes you to the irresistibly pretty Kaş, one of Türkiye's top diving destinations, while other spots, like Olympos and Phaselis, feature remarkable ancient ruins. The archaeological site of Patara is particularly impressive with its ruined bathhouses, temples, Roman city gate and theatre. And if you're keen to combine these historical sites with idyllic islands, you can, via a relaxing boat trip from Antalya's harbour.
History aside, you'll find an array of stellar golf courses dotted along Antalya's coast, especially if you head towards Belek, Türkiye's premier golf resort, just 20 minutes from Antalya city. Belek is home to 11 different golf clubs. Within these clubs, you'll find a total of 17 different tailor-made, 18-hole championship courses, designed to meet international standards and catering to both professional and amateur players. Fifteen of the golf courses here meet PGA standards, with many greens having been designed by champion golfers, their coastal settings completing the slick and scenic experience. And while other golfing destinations might close at sunset, Belek plays home to Europe's first fully lighted golf course, which means you can perfect your swing long into the evening. With extra-long driving ranges, PGA professional-led training academies and luxury hotels to boot, golfing holidays in Belek are hard to beat.
When you've worked up an appetite with the region's myriad active pursuits, Antalya offers a profusion of authentic Turkish flavours for you to enjoy. The seafood here, for a start, offers a lesson in tide-to-table freshness, with regional favourites such as grilled octopus, red mullet and stuffed mussels (midye dolma) gracing the menus. Local specialities like citrus jams and Antalya piyaz – a bean-based salad dressed with tahini – are a must-try too. The bustling Antalya Bazaar is a great place to pick up a wide selection of local preserves.
