Antalya is the main resort region of Türkiye's Mediterranean coast: one airport (AYT), a string of resort areas from Kemer in the west to Alanya in the east, and a season that runs from April to November. This guide covers the decisions travellers actually have to make — where to stay, how to get from the airport, what to book before arrival and what a day costs in time.
Which area should I stay in?
Lara and Kundu: closest to the airport (15–18 km), large themed five-star resorts, city and old town within 20–25 minutes.
Belek and Kadriye: 35–38 km out, golf courses, pine forest and the newest premium family resorts.
Side and Manavgat: 65–72 km, beach resorts plus a Roman old town you can walk in the evening.
Kemer: 45 km west, mountains, pebble beaches and the clearest water. Alanya: 125 km east, the best value and the liveliest town. Kaleiçi: the historic centre, for boutique city stays rather than beach resorts.
How do I get from Antalya Airport to my hotel?
Private transfer is the normal choice: fixed price, direct to the hotel door, flight tracked so the driver waits if you land late. Drive times run from about 20 minutes to Lara up to 2 hours to Alanya.
Shared shuttles cost less but stop at other hotels, so the journey can take considerably longer than the private time.
When is the best time to visit Antalya?
May, June, September and October give warm sea temperatures without the peak heat. July and August are the hottest and busiest. April and November are good for sightseeing and city breaks but cooler for swimming.
What should I book before I arrive?
The airport transfer, and any tour that runs on fixed days or has limited capacity — Cappadocia, Pamukkale, private yachts and Land of Legends night show. Most other excursions can be arranged a day or two ahead by WhatsApp.
How much time do the main trips take?
Half-day tours are roughly 4–5 hours door to door. Full-day tours are 8–9 hours. Pamukkale is a long full day with about 3 hours' drive each way. Cappadocia is a two-day trip with an overnight stay.
Practical notes
The currency is the Turkish lira; card payment is normal in hotels, shops and restaurants. Tap water is not usually drunk. A hat, sunscreen and closed shoes for ancient sites are worth packing.
Our team answers in English, German, Russian, French, Polish and Turkish, and we operate hotel bookings, airport transfers and excursions across the whole region.
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