Hierapolis & Pamukkale

The fluted minaret Yivliminare Mosque was built by the Sultan Ala ad-Din Kay Qubadh I in the 13th century. Decorated with dark blue tiles, is a landmark and symbol of the city. Just a stone's throw away lies the bustling city centre, along with an evocative equestrian statue of Kemal Atatürk, adding to the location's vibrant appeal.

Erected ahead of a Roman Emperor's visit in 130 AD, Hadrian's Gate offers a grand entry to Antalya's historic district. As the sole surviving gateway of the city's ancient protective walls, this triumphal arch embodies the rich past of Antalya, once known as Attaleia. Today, the gate stands on Atatürk Caddesi, bridging the bustling modern city and the charming old town of Kaleiçi, a testament to Antalya's long history and architectural prowess.

Situated approximately 18 kilometres east of Antalya, Perge (also known as Perga) was once home to the Hittites around 1500 BC, before falling under Greek colonisation post the Trojan War. The extensive ruins showcase a Roman theatre, a vast stadium, and column-lined streets harking back to the era when the Apostle Paul is believed to have made a stopover during one of his missions. Immerse yourself in the timeless tales this historic site whispers.

Situated en route to Alanya, Belek is a charming seaside resort town. Known for its premium golf courses, it offers a perfect getaway for those keen on tee times. Beyond golf, Belek boasts a host of upscale hotels and restaurants to explore.

Perched atop the stark white cliffs of Pamukkale lies Hierapolis — an ancient city that's as rich in history as it is in thermal springs. Once a Phrygian cult centre and later a flourishing Greek city, Hierapolis boasts a well-preserved amphitheatre, an array of atmospheric ruins, and the famed Sacred Pool — a thermally heated delight where you can immerse yourself amidst submerged Roman columns, scattered by an ancient earthquake. Just a stone's throw away, the terraces of Pamukkale steal the show. These gleaming white formations, made of travertine — a sedimentary rock deposited by the mineral-rich hot waters — give the town its name, meaning 'Cotton Castle'. With temperatures ranging from 35°C to a steamy 100°C, these hot springs have been creating an expanding landscape of terraces for centuries, as calcium carbonate from the waters crystallises into the soft gel of travertine. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, Hierapolis and Pamukkale offer a unique fusion of cultural history and natural wonder that should not be missed.

Antalya Aquarium offers a chance to explore the underwater world, with thousands of different marine species on display. Feeling adventurous? You can even swim with sharks and rays. Fancy a spot of winter in the middle of summer? Visit 'Snow World' and make snowballs from real snow. The highlight of the visit is the world's largest underwater tunnel — 131 metres long and 3 metres wide.

For those seeking a dash of thrill and adventure, Raftingo has just the ticket. This Antalya-based adventure company organises heart-pounding activities including river rafting, canyoning, and river kayaking. Backed by a team of professionals who provide guidance and information, you're sure to have a memorable, adrenaline-fuelled experience.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Anjana spa, a stunning oasis steeped in traditional Turkish culture. Inspired by tales of "Arabian Nights", the Turkish bath segment invites you to partake in a time-honoured ritual or unwind with a massage. You can also indulge in a variety of other treatments like a soothing chocolate or Thai massage, or a meticulous manicure. Here, your only task is to relax and let the pampering revive your senses.

The Karain Cave is located 400 metres above sea level and has 3 chambers that were reportedly inhabited approximately 400,000 years ago — several finds support the assumption, among them artefacts like ceramics and animal bones. Located 27 km northwest of Antalya, the cave offers a glimpse into our distant ancestors living.