Antalya Old Town (Kaleici)

Most visitors start their explorations of Antalya in Kaleiçi, taking in the sights on foot. Guided walking tours typically include historic highlights such as Hadrian’s Gate, the 18th-century Tekeli Mehmet Paşa mosque, the Selçuk-era Fluted Minaret, and the old Clock Tower. Along the western edge of Kaleiçi lies the old harbor and Antalya Marina, where boat cruises set sail to the nearby Duden Waterfalls and along the Mediterranean coast.

There is a wide choice of restaurants, shops, cafés, and hotels in Kaleiçi.

Wear comfy shoes. The roads in this district can be quite steep, with some steps, cobbled lanes, and uneven sections.

Access can be tricky for wheelchair and stroller users in some parts of Old Town—hiring a guide is recommended.

Kaleiçi is bordered by Ataturk boulevard to the east, Cumhuriyet boulevard to the north, and the seafront to the west. The most convenient way to get around is on foot, but city trams stop along Ataturk boulevard and taxis frequent many of the guesthouses and restaurants.

Kaleiçi buzzes with life at all hours of the day. In the morning take in the sights before the sun heats up. In the evening watch the sunset at the marina, and then spend the night drinking and dancing at one of the many bars and live music venues.

Kaleiçi traces its origins to the Roman period, and parts of the ancient city walls can still be seen around the outskirts of the district. Most memorable is Hadrian’s Gate, the last of the grand city gates still standing. This example of Roman architecture was constructed in AD 130 to commemorate Emperor Hadrian’s visit to Kaleiçi and features a triple-arched portal, decorative marble columns, and enormous turreted stone towers.