Antalya is less a single city than a collection of areas, each suited to a different kind of holiday. The narrow lanes of historic Kaleiçi, the long pebble beach of Konyaaltı, the big resorts of Lara and the golf courses of Belek offer very different experiences. This guide answers the question of where to stay in Antalya area by area, explains which area suits which traveller and what to look for when choosing your hotel.
Kaleiçi: Staying Inside the Old Town
The moment you walk through the Roman-era Hadrian’s Gate, you are among stone houses, bougainvillea-draped courtyards and lanes winding down to the old harbour. Most hotels in Kaleiçi are boutique properties converted from restored mansions; rooms tend to be smaller, but the atmosphere has far more character. Being within walking distance of the harbour restaurants, the Fluted Minaret and Hıdırlık Tower in the evening is a real advantage. If you are driving, ask about parking in advance, as many lanes are closed to traffic.
Kaleiçi is ideal for couples, short city breaks and anyone who loves historic surroundings. For a swim, Mermerli Beach and Konyaaltı are a short distance away.
Konyaaltı: Between the City and the Beach
With a pebble beach stretching for kilometres and a seafront park facing the Taurus Mountains, Konyaaltı is Antalya’s most balanced area. City hotels, aparthotels and beachfront properties sit side by side. The Antalya Museum, Aqualand and the cable car up to Tünektepe are nearby. It suits families and groups who want to swim by day and enjoy the city in the evening.
Lara and Kundu: The Big Resorts
Lara, the hotel area closest to the airport, is known for its sandy beach and large all-inclusive resorts. Many properties on the Kundu side focus on family holidays, with big pool areas, water parks and kids’ clubs. Old Lara (Eski Lara) is closer to the city centre and home to quieter city hotels, such as Akra Hotel.
Belek and Side: Golf, Sand and Ancient Cities
Belek is known as Turkey’s golf capital and is lined with large resort hotels along its long sandy beaches. Further east, Side combines a beach holiday with history, thanks to its ancient theatre, the Temple of Apollo and its small harbour. Both areas are further from Antalya city, so plan your airport transfer in advance.
Kemer and the West Coast: Mountains Meet the Sea
West of Antalya, Kemer, Beldibi, Göynük, Çamyuva and Tekirova form a coastline where pine-covered mountains run down to the sea. If you want a quieter holiday close to nature, this area is ideal; see hotels in Kemer for details. Further west, Kalkan and Kaş offer a different Mediterranean experience with boutique hotels and coves; True Blue Boutique Hotel Kalkan, for instance, reflects the boutique style of the area.
Which Area Suits Whom?
- Couples and short city breaks: Kaleiçi or Old Lara.
- Families: all-inclusive resorts in Lara, Kundu, Belek or Kemer.
- Beach and city together: Konyaaltı.
- Nature and peace: Kemer, Çıralı, Kaş and Kalkan.
- History lovers: Kaleiçi and Side.
What to Check When Choosing a Hotel in Antalya
Even within the same area, hotels in Antalya can differ a lot. Is there direct beach access, or is the beach across the road? Is the beach sandy or pebbly? Which restaurants and drinks does the all-inclusive package cover? Look for the answers in hotel descriptions and guest reviews. For an adults-only break, consider properties such as Club Porto Amore Hotel Adults Only in Alanya; for a boutique escape, look at options such as The Mediteran Hotel in Kalkan or Lupia Suites in Kaş.
It also pays to think about how you will spend your days. If you plan several excursions, a central base in Konyaaltı or Kaleiçi saves travel time; if you want a pool-and-beach holiday, a resort in Lara or Belek means everything is on site. Travelling with young children? Check for shallow pools, kids’ clubs and family rooms before you book.
Round Off Your Stay With Tours
There are plenty of ways to explore beyond your hotel: a city tour with the waterfalls and Kaleiçi, a Suluada boat trip or a day trip to Pamukkale. See all options on the Antalya tours page.
When to Go to Antalya
July and August are the hottest and busiest months for a beach holiday, and midday can be very hot. May, June and September are ideal, with warm sea and fewer crowds. In October and early November the weather is still good for walking and sightseeing. Winters in Antalya are mild; city hotels and spa centres stay open, and it is a lovely time for museums and ancient sites without the summer heat.
Getting There and Getting Around
Antalya Airport is one of Turkey’s busiest and has direct flights from many UK and European cities. You can reach the city centre by tram, bus or taxi; for areas such as Kemer, Belek and Side, a pre-booked transfer is the most comfortable option. In the city, the Antray tram links Konyaaltı with the centre, and a heritage tram runs along the seafront. Kaleiçi is best explored on foot; for more distant beaches and ancient cities, hiring a car or joining a day tour is practical. Taxis are easy to find, but agree on using the meter before you set off.
How to Book
On the hotels in Antalya page, enter your check-in and check-out dates and the number of guests to see the available room types and board options. Compare bed and breakfast, half board or all inclusive, and read the cancellation terms before the payment step. Card payments are processed securely. Your card is not charged now; the amount is taken once your booking is confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which area of Antalya is best for a first visit?
If you want the city, history and a beach together, Kaleiçi or Konyaaltı is a good start. If you mainly want to relax, the resorts in Lara, Belek or Kemer suit you better.
Should I choose all inclusive or bed and breakfast in Antalya?
If you will spend most of the day at the hotel, especially with children, all inclusive makes budgeting easier. If you plan to explore and eat out, bed and breakfast usually makes more sense.
How far is Antalya Airport from the city centre?
The airport lies east of the centre; Lara and Kundu are the closest hotel areas, while Kemer and Side need a longer transfer.
When should I book a hotel in Antalya?
July and August are the busiest months, so booking a few months ahead gives you more choice. May, early June, September and October are quieter and better value.
What day trips can I take from Antalya?
The Düden and Kurşunlu waterfalls, the Suluada boat trip, Pamukkale, rafting and jeep safaris are the most popular; you can browse them on the Antalya tours page on Londonos.
