Antalya 3-Day Itinerary: Beaches, Old Town, and Epic Day Trips

Antalya is one of those rare places where you can start your morning in a centuries-old old town, spend your afternoon swimming in the Mediterranean, and finish the day at a Roman theater that still hosts performances.

This 3-day itinerary is designed for first-timers who want a balanced trip: a little history, a lot of coastline, and one memorable day trip.

If you want the broader overview first, check our full destination page: Antalya Travel Guide.

Before You Go: Quick Antalya Planning Notes

• Best time to visit: April-May and September-October for warm weather without peak-summer crowds.
• Where to base yourself:
  • Kaleici (Old Town): walkable, atmospheric, best for short stays
  • Konyaalti: beachy, local vibe, great sunsets
  • Lara: resort-style hotels and long sandy beaches
• Getting around: trams + buses for the city, taxis for convenience. For day trips, tours or a rental car are easiest.

Day 1: Kaleici Old Town + Harbor Sunset

Morning: Get Lost in Kaleici (in a good way)

Kaleici is the historic heart of Antalya. Wander without a strict plan and you will naturally hit:

• Ottoman-era houses and small boutique hotels
• Hidden courtyards, cafes, and artisan shops
• Photogenic alleys that lead down toward the old harbor

Tip: start early to enjoy Kaleici before it gets busy and warm.

Midday: Hadrian’s Gate + Lunch Break

Hadrian’s Gate is the city’s iconic Roman arch and an easy stop while exploring the old town area.

For lunch, look for:

• fresh grilled fish near the harbor
• local pide (Turkish flatbread)
• a cold ayran if you are visiting in warmer months

Evening: Old Harbor + Golden Hour Views

Head down to Antalya’s old harbor for sunset. Even if you are not taking a boat tour, the views and atmosphere are worth it.

Optional add-on: a short boat cruise (seasonal) for coastline views.

Day 2: Waterfalls + Konyaalti Beach Day

Morning: Duden Waterfalls

Duden Waterfalls is one of the best easy nature breaks in the city. The highlight is the dramatic moment where the water drops into the Mediterranean.

Bring:

• comfortable shoes
• water and sunscreen
• your camera (this is a high “wow-per-minute” spot)

Afternoon: Konyaalti Beach

Konyaalti is a long beach with mountain views. Plan a relaxed afternoon:

• rent a sunbed (common in summer)
• swim and cool off
• walk the promenade for snacks and coffee

Local note: Konyaalti is mostly pebbly. Water shoes can be a nice upgrade.

Evening: Dinner with a View

Pick a restaurant with a terrace view or go back to Kaleici for a more historic atmosphere.

Day 3: Choose Your Adventure (Best Day Trips from Antalya)

You can make Day 3 as active or as relaxed as you want. Here are the best options depending on your travel style.

Option A: Ancient Ruins Loop (Perge + Aspendos)

If you love history, this is the classic Antalya day trip.

• Perge: impressive ancient streets and ruins
• Aspendos: one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world

How to do it: easiest via guided tour, or rent a car if you want to move at your own pace.

Option B: Termessos (Mountain Fortress City)

Termessos is a dramatic ancient site set high in the mountains. It is less visited than other ruins, which makes it feel like a discovery.

Good for: hikers, photographers, travelers who want something different.

Option C: Relaxed Beach + Spa Day (Lara)

If you are already “ruined-out,” go easy:

• spend the morning at Lara Beach
• book a Turkish bath (hamam)
• finish with an unhurried dinner

What to Eat in Antalya (3 Essentials)

• Piyaz (Antalya-style): a bean salad with tahini (a local signature)
• Fresh Mediterranean seafood: especially near the harbor
• Citrus: Antalya is famous for oranges, and the juice is unreal in season

Practical Tips to Make This Itinerary Smoother

• Avoid the hottest hours: in summer, do sightseeing early and beach later.
• Cash helps: many small shops and local places still prefer it.
• Plan your day trip: book tours 1 day ahead in peak season.
• Stay central if you have only 3 days: it saves time and taxi rides.

FAQ

Is 3 days enough for Antalya?

Yes, 3 days is enough for a first visit if you focus on Kaleici, one beach day, and one day trip to ruins or nature. If you want to add more beaches and nearby towns, 5-7 days is ideal.

Should I stay in Kaleici or near the beach?

For a short trip, Kaleici is usually best because it is walkable and atmospheric. If your priority is lounging at a resort-style beach, choose Lara.

What is the best day trip from Antalya?

For most travelers, Perge + Aspendos is the best day trip because it is iconic, easy to organize, and delivers the biggest historical impact.

Want a deeper overview (best seasons, neighborhoods, transport, and food)? Read our full Antalya Travel Guide.