This is our third time in Antalya

The first time we were here was back in December of 2020, during Covid. At the time, we had an inexpensive rental car, and that convenience enabled us to get an inexpensive apartment on the outskirts of the city so that we could do a lot of day trips.

The second time we were here was in late February of 2022 when we were here with our motorhome Max. 

Both times, we didn't get to spend very much time actually in the center of the city. So this time, when we saw that prices have really increased for both accommodation and car rentals, we decided to get a place right in the center and just explore this area by foot.

We also decided that because we have an expensive couple of months ahead of us that we would pinch the pennies a bit while we're here... so we really haven't done very much in terms of "entertainment".

But there are a lot of things in the area that are totally worth it if you do have transportation. One of the best ruins sites that we have ever been to is the ancient city of Termessos.

The Termessos theatre.

The site itself is set high in the mountains, and reminds me of the photos I've seen of Peru's Machu Picchu. But without the cost or the hoards of tourists! I honestly can't figure out why it's not busier, other than the fact that it's difficult to access. And because it's difficult to access, there has been very little archeological work or restoration at the site.

Another worthwhile attraction is the ancient city of Olympos,

Tombs at the ancient city of Olympos.

Olympos is set on the seaside so it's a totally different atmosphere from Termessos. There are sooo many interesting ruins sites in Turkiye.

And another recommended day trip from Antalya is the Göynük Canyon. Located only 36 kms SW of the city, you can spend all day there hiking and doing tourist activities like zip lines. It's a beautiful area, and if you are adventurous there are some caves to explore as well...

Doing some cave exploring at Göynük Canyon.

There is another cave close to Antalya. It's actually the largest cave in Turkiye! And hardly anybody knows about it. When I was doing the research, one review actually said "you will be the only one there except for the cows!". How can it be that the largest cave in Turkiye is so unknown...?

The cave is located at GPS 37.232448, 30.711383

Can you see me?

Click the photo to make it full screen, then click again to zoom in.

Another interesting stop in Antalya is the Upper Duden Waterfalls. We have been to the Lower Duden Waterfalls several times... this is where the Duden River empties into the Mediterranean Sea. But the upper ones are also interesting...

Ruth, at the Upper Duden Waterfalls.

So, there is a lot to see in and around Antalya... but we have seen most of it during our two previous visits. There is one nearby ruins site we might make it to over the next couple of days, but we've seen so many much better sites here in Turkiye. We'll see. If the entrance fee is cheap, we might go for it.

But for anybody who has never been to Antalya... it's definitely worth a visit!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Record low deal on the Fitbit Versa 4 Smart watch.

And in Canada...

Check out the deals at Amazon.ca.