Second only to Istanbul, Antalya is the most popular tourist destination in Turkey, not to mention home to thousands of expats from around the world. So, what is it about Antalya that attracted approximately 15 million visitors in 2018, some of them first timers, but many return holiday-makers who have already discovered the region and keep going back again and again?

Firstly, Antalya is one of the most stunning regions, not only of Turkey, but of the world. The province lies along the Mediterranean coast, where pine-covered mountains gradually give way to small valleys, leading to pristine beaches with the clearest of turquoise waters. Along the coastline you can enjoy secluded coves, long stretches of sandy beach, hot-spots beating to the throng of music and fun and everything in between. So, for sun-drenched summer holidays, Antalya is the place.

But don’t think that Antalya is just a summer time destination. With its Mediterranean climate, it is a year-round perfect playground. Relatively mild winters mean you can enjoy the myriad of things to see and do no matter when you choose to visit. And don’t be surprised if you’re even able to sit outdoors in cafes or seaside restaurants and soak up the winter sun and atmosphere.

Of course, stunning beaches are what most holiday makers are looking for, but there is so much more to Antalya than that. Maybe all-inclusive resorts are your style. Antalya has the most amazing 5-star luxury resorts to choose from, catering for all budgets and couples to families. You’ll find them in all the resort towns along the coast; Alanya, Side, Belek, the city of Antalya, Kemer, Kas, Kalkan and more. Of course, family run pensions offer a charm and hospitality famous in Turkey and Antalya will spoil you for choice in this regard. Whatever your style, whatever your budget, you will find the perfect place in Antalya.

And speaking of hospitality; the cafes, restaurants, bars and food. Amazing! You could visit Antalya for a foodie holiday alone! Traditional dishes, seafoods, mouth-watering meats, mezes, deserts, pastries, street food and more. There are simply not enough hours in the day to try all the foods you’re tempted by. Especially if you’ve started your day with the superb breakfast offered in your resort or pension!

So, besides beaches, sun and food glorious food, what else does Antalya have to offer? What about historical sites? The region is full of the most amazing ancient sites dating back thousands of years. In the city of Antalya, you could visit the acclaimed Archeological museum or stroll down the cobbled streets of Kaleici (Old town) and browse in the delightful shops selling everything from clothing to carpets, sip tea in one of the many cafes dotted throughout, or in the evening, enjoy a meal in a wonderful restaurant and then party the night away in one of the chic bars or mellow out to live music in one of the cosier venues. Whatever you are looking for, it’s there.

And that’s just in the city of Antalya. You could also visit Aspendos, just a short trip out. Dating back to the 2^nd century, it is a well-preserved amphitheater which is still used today. Why not check out what’s on and book tickets. It is an absolutely spine-tingling experience! Alanya also has its share of famous sites with its castle, harbor and red tower, then there’s Olympos, Termessos, Phaselis and many more. For those who want to just get a quick glimpse of the past and for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the history of the region, Antalya hits the mark.

Just one or two ancient sites enough for you? There are still plenty of other ways to fill your days. There are fantastic water and adventure parks to tempt you, the most famous of which is the world class Land of Legends. You can easily spend a whole day and evening there, enjoying all the adrenalin filled rides, rocketing down the water slides, checking out the 5D cinema and much, much more. In the evening, check out the concert or performance on offer or shop in the world class mall. And on the topic of shopping, Antalya’s got you covered there, with everything from local markets to chic 5-star malls. And perhaps you like to get active on your holidays. What about canyoning, white-water rafting, para-sailing, a jeep safari, boat trips, wind-surfing? The list goes on.

So, Antalya. Much more than just a city! And so easy to get to with International airports in Antalya, Alanya and Dalaman. There are no reasons why not, and only fantastic reasons why you should definitely visit Antalya for your next holiday. Once you do, you’re bound to become one of the many who return time and time again.