Antalya The pearl of the Turkish Riviera
Antalya is also known as the „Pearl of the Turkish Riviera“, and clearly not without reason. Take a stroll through the picturesque Old Town that boasts an ensemble of wooden Ottoman houses with projecting alcoves and antique ruins that take you back in time; or venture on an excursion into the hinterland to the famous white terraces of Pamukkale. The chance to dine in one of the cosy outdoor restaurants overlooking the harbour is not to be missed.
A wealth of attractions
The hibiscus flowers in the gardens are in full bloom and the air is filled with the scent of orange trees. The snow-covered peaks of the Beydaglari mountains in the distance rise up to 3’000 metres. Sailing yachts from all over the world rock gently in the harbour. The harbour town of Antalya was founded 2000 years ago. Today, it is a vibrant, fast-growing metropolis that has nonetheless preserved its charming core.
The fluted minaret (Yivli Minare) built in 1220 or the mighty Hadrianus Gate and museums filled with ample treasures or the crenellated city walls: Antalya offers an abundance of sights and attractions. The Old Town situated above a protected rocky bay is the perfect place to forget time while enjoying a cool drink in the sunshine.
Romantic gardens, enchanted cities
But there is much more to see in and around Antalya: take a boat trip to the Düden Waterfalls and walk behind the main waterfall, and get a special glimpse of this spectacular work of nature along with local Turkish families and enamoured couples.
Discover the antique mountain city of Termessos at a height of 1000 metres, enchanted and unspoiled, and enjoy a picnic on the well-preserved steps of the city’s theatre.
Hire a moped and drive to the secluded bays along the road to Kerner. Treat yourself to a nap in the shade of the pine forests followed by a refreshing dip in the azure blue sea.
Take a walk through Karaalioglu Park with its subtropical vegetation, tea gardens and fountains that will make you feel as if you have stepped into the scene of a fairytale; don’t miss the chance to dance at a beach party or two, with the taste of salty sea air on your tongue.
Antalya – the complete feel-good holiday package
Sitting down to a glass of sweet Turkish tea, after a thorough scrub and cleanse, is a priceless feeling. A visit to two of the historic hamams (Turkish baths) in Antalya’s Old Town is well worthwhile. The procedure, which includes an abrasive sponge and massage as well as several body washes and periods of rest, is wonderfully relaxing and affords you plenty of time and space to let your thoughts wander.
As you sit in a beach café under a large white awning listening to a live band and infused with a pleasant feeling of warmth, close your eyes and relax: the south coast of Turkey, girded by citrus plantations, cotton fields and almond groves, is a place where magical things can indeed occur.
Destinations - A to Z
Check-in information
The Check-in for Edelweiss Air flights in Antalya is located in Terminal 1 since June 15th 2012.
Flightplan
Distance & flight time
- Distance from Zurich: 2270 km
- Time shift: +1h
- Flight time from Zurich: 02:55h
Speciality Antalya
Kisir: the taste of Turkey
Kisir, a Turkish bulgur salad bursting with Mediterranean flavours, is the perfect way to enhance the joyful anticipation of your imminent holiday.
You need: bulgur, tomato paste, spicy paprika paste, spring onions, tomatoes, parsley, lemon, olive oil, salt and pepper.
And this is how to make Kisir: pour hot water over the bulgur wheat and leave it until the wheat has the desired consistency. Add tomato and paprika paste for the reddish colour. Slice spring onions, tomatoes and parsley into small pieces and add to the mix. Season with lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. The Kisir is now ready to serve!