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The Turkish Riviera truly is a jewel in the crown of the Mediterranean. Although it’s known for glorious beaches, it has lots more to offer visitors than its famous turquoise waters.
With ancient tombs and thousands-years-old monuments, this is a history-lover’s destination, too. Not to mention the lush forests, championship golf courses and rugged mountains. Step away from the seaside for the day and get to know a more intimate side of the Turquoise Coast.
1. Aspendos Theatre – one of the best-preserved Roman-era theatres in the world
Where? 25 miles (40km) east of Antalya.
Built during the reign of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius in the 2nd century AD, this impressive theatre is still fit for purpose. In fact, every June and July it hosts performances as part of the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival. While it’s now restored to its original purpose, throughout the years this ruin has had many uses. For example, the Seljuks used the theatre as a caravanserai – accommodation for weary merchants travelling the silk road. There are other ancient monuments to see nearby – including a Nymphaeum, Basilica and market building – but none are as beautifully preserved.
2. Selge – Ancient ruins on a walking and rafting route
Where? Köprülü Canyon National Park
Nestled deep in the heart of the Taurus Mountains, the ancient ruins of Selge are definitely off the beaten path. The crumbling city sits on the banks of the Eurymedon River. Reaching it involves crossing a Roman-era bridge, which cuts across the deep valley of the Eurymedon. You can wander around the ruins, which include a crumbling city wall and an acropolis. One of the best-preserved structures is the 2nd-century theatre. Climb up to the highest row of seats for an unrivalled view across Köprülü Canyon National Park.
The area around Selge is bound to impress nature lovers. Go white water rafting on the Köprüçay River, or hike a section of the long distance St Paul’s walking trail.
3. Side – an entire ancient city in a popular resort town
Where? Manavgat
Stroll through the centre of Side and you really feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There are ruins of Roman-era houses, as well as a theatre and hospital. You can even walk on stretches of the original road. For a deeper understanding of what you’re seeing, visit the small but interesting Side Museum. It sits inside a renovated 2,000 year old Roman bathhouse. Stroll through the five rooms and you’ll see day-to-day objects like coins and cutlery, as well as more elaborate jewellery and intricately carved marble coffins.
4. Patara Beach – ancient ruins near an unspoiled stretch of coast
Where? Gelemiş
Head to Patara Beach and you’ll find a truly unspoiled spot. That’s because this 11-mile stretch of sand is home to the ruins of an ancient city. It’s also where protected Loggerhead turtles come to lay their eggs – and have done for 40 million years. To get to this paradise beach, you have to pass through some of the ruins first. You need to pay a small admission to enter, but that includes a much-needed map. The ancient monuments aren’t all clustered together, but scattered around the surrounding landscape. Without a map you may find it tricky to find your way to sights like the triumphal arch, agora and theatre.
5. Termessos – ancient ruins scattered among pine forest
Where? 10.5 miles (17km) north-west of Antalya
Termessos is one of the most mysterious ancient sites in the Turkish Riviera. It sits high in the Taurus Mountains, a kilometre above sea level, and was known as the ‘Eagle’s Nest’ by Alexander the Great. The city was never properly conquered and – although archeologists started studying it in the 19th century – a lot of buildings are still unidentified. This is one for true adventurers. It’s part of a natural park, and the ruins are studded throughout lush pine forest where rare plants grow. Not only is it difficult to get here, but once you’re there it’s quite tricky to navigate through the thick foliage. If you’ve ever wanted to play explorer, this is your chance!
6. Hadrian’s Gate (Üçkapılar) – a triumphal arch in the city of Antalya
Where? Atatürk Boulevard, Antalya
With its three double arches, this triumphal gate is one of the most impressive sights in the city of Antalya. It’s also one of the most popular spots to snap a selfie. It was built nearly two thousand years ago, in the year 130, to celebrate Roman Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city. It’s the only remaining entrance of the old city walls, which surrounded the city and harbour. Now it makes an easy starting point for a stroll around Kaleiçi – Antalya’s old quarter. As you pass under the gate, look down. The newly constructed walkway sits over an old pavement lined with deep grooves, from centuries of carts trundling along it.
7. Lycian Tombs of Myra – rock-cut tombs in Santa’s hometown
Where: Demre
Finishing on a high note, the Lycian tombs are one of the most spectacular ancient sights of the Turkish Riviera. These can be found all along the Turquoise Coast but the intricate rock-cut tombs of Myra are especially spectacular. Carved into the vertical cliff faces, many look like temples. When they were built, they would have been painted in bright colours like red, blue and yellow – and the paint still remained in 1840, according to travellers of the time. Interestingly enough, Demre was the home of Saint Nicholas – yep, Father Christmas. So if you fancy some festive sun, the Turkish Riviera would make a great alternative to Lapland.
Step back in time and discover more of the Turkish Riviera
History buff, outdoorsy type or beach-loving party animal – you’ll find something to keep every side of your personality happy on the Turkish Riviera. And, once you’re ready to get out and explore, you can always find the best deals on flights with Skyscanner.
