Hotels in Antalya

Staying in Antalya

Antalya is the main gateway to Turkey's Mediterranean coast, a destination Moroccan travellers mostly associate with all-inclusive club hotels, long beaches and family holidays. The city itself is worth a stop, though: its old town, Kaleiçi, runs down narrow lanes to a small ancient harbour, between restored Ottoman houses, mosques and city walls. Around it, a modern and sprawling city has grown along the coast, with residential districts, shopping centres and two large beach areas, east and west of the centre.

The choice of hotel depends first on the kind of stay. For a beach holiday, the large resorts along the coast, often all-inclusive with pools, managed beach areas and kids' clubs, remain a simple formula, especially for families. To explore the city, its markets and its restaurants, a boutique hotel in the old town or an address in the centre will suit you better, even if it means taking a taxi or a bus to reach the beach. Think about the season too: summer is very hot and very busy, while spring and autumn offer milder conditions.

Where to stay in Antalya

• The old town (Kaleiçi)

  Pedestrian lanes, Ottoman houses turned into small boutique hotels and guesthouses, an old harbour and restaurants: this is the most pleasant area for exploring the city on foot. Rooms are often small and car access is limited.

• The eastern coast (Lara area)

  This is the zone of the big all-inclusive resorts, with managed beaches, pools and entertainment. The natural choice for a family beach holiday, provided you accept being some way from the historic centre.

• The western coast (Konyaaltı area)

  A long beach lined by a promenade, with smaller hotels, residences and apartments. A more urban, more local feel than the big complexes to the east.

Good to know before you book

• With all-inclusive packages, look at what is actually included: drinks, à la carte restaurants, water sports and kids' clubs vary a lot from one property to another.
• Summer is very hot and very busy; if you can, aim for spring or autumn, which are milder and quieter, especially for visiting the old town.
• If you want to alternate beach days and trips around the region, check that the hotel organises excursions or is well served by taxis and city buses.

Questions about Antalya

Frequently asked questions