Kaleiçi is the historic city center of Antalya, Turkey. Until modern times, almost the entire city was confined within its walls. It has structures dating from the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman and modern Turkish republican eras. Most of it however, dates to the late 18th and 19th centuries. While some of the traditional Turkish homes are occupied by residents, many have been converted into boutique hotels, restaurants and shops selling handicrafts and other folkloric arts. The area has been undergoing to an extensive restoration by the municipality of Antalya. The Kaleiçi area is located in the centre-eastern portion of the city along the mediterranean coast fronted by the yacht harbour that dates to the Roman era. The name Kaleiçi means "Inside the Kale" or "Inner Kale" (Kale itself means castle or fortress). • Antalya Clock Tower • Hadrian's Gate • Hıdırlık Tower • İskele mosque • Kalekapısı • Karatay Medrese • Kesik Minare • Yacht Harbour • Yivli Minare • Mermerli Beach • Mermerli Park • Pazar Hamamı • Suna & Inan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum • Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque • Yat Limani Parks • Karaalioglu Park • Yavuz Özcan Park • Ataturk Park
Antalya Old Town (Kaleici) Tours and Tickets
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Kaleiçi is the historic city center of Antalya, Turkey. Until modern times, almost the entire city was confined within its walls. It has structures dating from the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman and modern Turkish republican eras. Most of it however, dates to the late 18th and 19th centuries. While some of the traditional Turkish homes are occupied by residents, many have been converted into boutique hotels, restaurants and shops selling handicrafts and other folkloric arts. The area has been undergoing to an extensive restoration by the municipality of Antalya. The Kaleiçi area is located in the centre-eastern portion of the city along the mediterranean coast fronted by the yacht harbour that dates to the Roman era. The name Kaleiçi means "Inside the Kale" or "Inner Kale" (Kale itself means castle or fortress). • Antalya Clock Tower • Hadrian's Gate • Hıdırlık Tower • İskele mosque • Kalekapısı • Karatay Medrese • Kesik Minare • Yacht Harbour • Yivli Minare • Mermerli Beach • Mermerli Park • Pazar Hamamı • Suna & Inan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum • Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque • Yat Limani Parks • Karaalioglu Park • Yavuz Özcan Park • Ataturk Park
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- Antalya’s Old Town (Kaleiçi) remains the heart of this modern Turkish city. Home to a number of historic monuments, it’s also the city’s most atmospheric district—a maze of narrow winding streets dotted with traditional wooden houses, bars, restaurants, and Ottoman-style boutique hotels.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.
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joining of antalya city tour gives you great day out and unforgettable memories of your life if you are ready to discover antalya beauties here is your tour. noted:if cable car is not operating due the weather condition there is no refund instead of that we will do old city boat trip and during summer time if any waterfall run out of water we have a right to switch with another waterfall. thanks for cooperation._en-US
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Join our Antalya City Tour for a day filled with history, nature, and culture! Stroll through the charming streets of Kaleiçi (Old Town), where your expert guide will share fascinating insights into Antalya’s rich heritage and traditions. Visit the breathtaking Upper and Lower Düden Waterfalls (included in the city+waterfalls+boat trip package) and enjoy a 1-hour boat tour for stunning views of the coastline and waterfalls. Stop by a local silver shop for a short visit and savor a delicious lunch at a traditional restaurant (drinks not included). For an extra thrill, upgrade to the Olympos Cable Car Package, offering an unforgettable ride from sea to sky (available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays)._en-US
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Antalya, one of the best holiday resorts in Turkey, awaits you with its fantastic coves, beaches, and vivid city center.By joining this daily Antalya excursion, you can see many touristic attractions, enabling you to learn the must-see places in Antalya. Tour Schedule Karpuzkaldıran Waterfall Duden Waterfall Tunektepe Cable Car The Summit Lunch Oldtown Return Back A Short Story About Antalya King of Pergamum II. Attalos ordered his soldiers to "Go and find me heaven on earth."Antalya gulf in the Mediterranean Basin transformed into a legend is appreciated for its unique nature, fertile lands, and strategic location among kingdoms. Therefore, the "Heaven on Earth" is shown as Antalya, where the last days of the King's life as the place he wants to spend. Discover Antalya with us, which is hosting many natural and historical heritages that must be visited. Please note: Since the Tünektepe Cable Car is closed,a boat tour from Kaleici is organized instead of the cable car._en-US
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As you step into the ancient walls of Antalya Old Town, a wave of history washes over you. The cobblestone streets echo with the whispers of the past, guiding you on a journey through time. The salty scent of the nearby sea mingles with the earthy aroma of the old stone buildings, creating a tapestry of scents that transport you to another era.
The sounds of the bustling bazaar fill your ears, with vendors haggling over prices and the occasional call to prayer echoing from the nearby mosque. The rhythmic clack of horse-drawn carriages on the uneven streets adds to the symphony of noise, creating a chaotic but harmonious melody that envelops you in its warmth.
As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, you can’t help but marvel at the beauty of the architecture. The intricate carvings on the ancient buildings tell stories of bygone times, while the vibrant colors of the bougainvillea cascading down the walls add a touch of whimsy to the scene. Every corner turned reveals a new surprise, a hidden courtyard or a charming cafe tucked away from the main thoroughfare.
The warmth of the sun on your skin and the cool breeze off the Mediterranean Sea create a perfect harmony of sensations, bringing a sense of peace and serenity to your soul. The taste of freshly brewed Turkish coffee lingers on your tongue, a reminder of the hospitality and warmth of the locals who call this place home.
As the day fades into evening, the soft glow of lanterns illuminates the narrow streets, casting a magical spell over the ancient town. The call to prayer echoes once again, a hauntingly beautiful melody that seems to transcend time itself. You find yourself lost in the moment, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem on the Turkish coast.
In Antalya Old Town, the past and present collide in a symphony of sights, sounds, and sensations that evoke a wide range of emotions. It’s a place where history comes to life, where every step is a journey through time, and where the beauty of the moment leaves an indelible mark on your soul.
Audio descriptive guides and sensory-friendly hours are not widely available in Antalya Old Town (Kaleici). Visitors with specific accessibility needs should contact individual attractions or tour companies directly to inquire about accommodations. Some places may be able to provide audio guides or adjust their schedule to accommodate sensory-friendly visits upon request.
Antalya’s Old Town, known as Kaleici, is a charming neighborhood that enchants both locals and visitors with its historical character and unique atmosphere. To gain some local insights into Kaleici, we spoke with a few writers and artists who have been inspired by this ancient quarter.
Yasemin, a local poet, finds Kaleici to be a treasure trove of inspiration. She describes the narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and bougainvillea-covered houses as a poetic muse. "Walking through Kaleici feels like stepping back in time," she says. "The juxtaposition of ancient ruins with bustling cafes and shops creates a magical atmosphere that sparks my creativity."
Aslı, a painter who specializes in capturing the beauty of Kaleici, shares a similar sentiment. "The colors and textures of Kaleici are truly captivating," she says. "I love painting the intricate details of the old stone buildings, the vibrant street vendors, and the play of light and shadow in the alleyways. There’s a sense of nostalgia and authenticity in Kaleici that I try to convey through my art."
For local writer Can, Kaleici is not just a picturesque setting, but a place rich in history and stories. "Every corner of Kaleici has a tale to tell," he says. "From the ancient city walls to the Roman harbor, each landmark carries the weight of centuries of history. I love delving into the lore of Kaleici and discovering the hidden stories that lie beneath the surface."
Irem, a photographer, agrees that Kaleici is a treasure trove of visual stories waiting to be captured. "I’m constantly amazed by the diversity of scenes in Kaleici," she says. "From colorful street art to traditional Turkish architecture, there’s always something new and exciting to photograph. The mix of old and new, modern and ancient, creates a dynamic visual tapestry that never fails to inspire me."
Overall, the local artists and writers we spoke with all agree that Kaleici is a place of endless inspiration and creativity. Its timeless charm, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere make it a beloved neighborhood not just for tourists, but for the creative souls who call Antalya home. Whether you’re exploring its winding streets, sipping tea at a local cafe, or simply soaking in the ambiance, Kaleici is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to experience its magic.
### Directions and Transportation
- By Air: The nearest airport to Antalya Old Town (Kaleici) is Antalya Airport, which is well-connected to major cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach the old town.
- By Bus: The Antalya bus terminal (Otogar) is located about 4 km from Kaleici. You can take a local bus or taxi from the terminal to reach the old town.
- By Car: If you’re driving to Antalya Old Town, you can park your car in one of the public parking lots nearby. Keep in mind that the narrow streets of Kaleici are not suitable for large vehicles.
- By Walking: Once you’re in Kaleici, the best way to explore the area is on foot. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings are best experienced by walking.
### Ticket Booking and Discounts
- Attraction Tickets: Tickets for specific attractions within Antalya Old Town (Kaleici) can be purchased at the entrance gates or online through the official websites of the attractions.
- Discounts: Students, seniors, and children often receive discounts on attraction tickets. It’s advisable to check with the ticket counter or website for any available discounts.
### Local Amenities
- Parking: There are public parking lots available near Antalya Old Town (Kaleici) where you can park your vehicle for a fee. It’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Restrooms: Restrooms can be found in restaurants, cafes, and public facilities within Kaleici. It’s a good idea to use the restroom facilities in cafes or restaurants you visit.
- Dining: Kaleici offers a variety of dining options, including traditional Turkish restaurants, cafes, and international cuisine. You can find options catering to different dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.
- Accessibility: While some parts of Kaleici may have cobblestone streets and narrow pathways, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. However, it’s advisable to check with specific attractions or facilities regarding accessibility options.