Nestled in the southern part of Turkey, Antakya is a diverse and peaceful city. With several rich and powerful dynasties like the Roman Empire, Byzantine, Ottomans and many others ruling it, Antakya has a rich history and architecture. It is one of the oldest cities founded in 300 BC by Alexander the Great’s general who named it Antioch. The city has emerged as a popular tourist place with bustling cafes, hotels and shops. Enjoy the warmth of Turkish hospitality and the scenic natural views of the landscapes as you explore its natural treasures. Food lovers will relish Antakya’s vibrant culinary scene, with traditional dishes like kebabs, mezes, baklava, and kunefe offering a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
History Of Antakya Turkey
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The city was founded in 300 BC by Seleucuc I Niator, a general of Alexander the Great. He names the city Antioch after his father. Making it among the oldest cities all over the world, Antakya has witnessed the rise and decline of many empires. The city stood as the capital of the Roman province of Syria in 64 BC. The city continued an important position in the Byzantine Empire due to its strategic and market position. In 1516, Antioch came under the Ottoman King Sultan Selim I. He renamed it as Antakya and made it a centre of education and religion. With a blend of Christians, Arabs and Turkish communities, the city has a vibrant tradition drawing visitors from all over the world.
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Architecture Of Antakya Turkey
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Antakya offers a wide architectural spectacular making it a treat to the eyes. With the influence of various powerful dynasties, the city is a mix of accents, mediaeval and modern styles. The city is adorned with elaborate public buildings, theatres, temples and colossal baths of the Roman Empire. Walk around the streets and admire the old-style Ottoman houses characterised by tiled roofs and antique wooden windows. With several Byzantine churches, Islamic mosques and Roman buildings spread all over, the city has preserved the grandeur of the past and blended it to accommodate modern-day urban functionality.
Places To Visit In Antakya
To make your travel more comprehensive and organised, we have prepared a list of the top places to visit in Antakya. Enjoy these places on your day trip to Antakya:
1. Antakya Museum
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Antakya Museum is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. Spread over 17000 square metres, this huge museum has 13 exhibition halls and one open-air section. The halls are icons hall, mosaic hall, prehistoric hall, hall of Sarcophagi and many others. Admire the artefacts from the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. The museum also showcases the Hercules marble statue, coins, household items, the weapons used by the brave warriors of the Ottoman Empire and much more. The museum is home to the world’s largest Roman and Byzantine mosaic depicting mythological creatures and nature
Visiting hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
Entry fees: TKY 25
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2. Kaleici
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The quaint town of the Ottoman Empire, Kaleici is known for its historical significance and architecture. Offering an old-world charm in its cobblestone streets, Roman walls, cafes and ottoman’s ottoman-inspired house structure, it is one of the top places you must visit in Turkey. You can visit the Hadrian Gates, Hidirlik Tower, and Kaleici Museum as well. The town also has Mermerli beach which has a glass balcony in its observation tower making it an adventurous and scenic spot. You can enjoy your day in the yachts or submarine rides available on the Marina beach here.
Visiting hours: All day
Entry fees: None
3. Duden Waterfall
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Located a short car ride away, the Duden Waterfall is composed of two levels: low and high. This mesmerising water cascade is surrounded by lush green forests and high caves. The lower Duden waterfall has a height of 40 metres giving it a frothy white look as it falls. The waterfall flows into the Mediterranean Sea making it a sight worth remembering. You can also visit the Cave of Wishes here by walking up the spiral staircase and enjoying views of the Antakya from the height.
Visiting hours: All day
Entry fees: TRY 3 (lower Duden waterfall); TRY 5 (upper Duden waterfall)
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4. Lara Beach
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With 15 km long shorelines, Lara Beach is the most popular beach getaway for both locals and tourists. There are many five-star hotel chains on the beach leaving only 2 km for the general public. Enjoy watersports like windsurfing, paragliding, and banana boat rides here to fulfil the adrenaline rush in you. There is a dedicated children’s area, food and dining section offering a variety of local seafood dishes. Spend your daytime bathing in the sun and enjoying the waves of the ocean. Visit the cafes and nightclubs on the beach as the sun sets to end your day on an enjoyable note.
Visiting hours: All day
Entry fees: None
5. Aktur Park
Located in Konyaalti, Aktur Park is a famous amusement park in Antakya. With a ride for every age, this park is loved and enjoyed by all. You can purchase tickets to the individual rides and get on with the fun. With a variety of rides such as roller coasters, Ferris wheel, bumper cars, mirror maze, and arcades, you will not realise how your day passed by. The Aktur Park has the largest ferris wheel in Turkey and the 20-minute ride offers majestic views of the city.
Visiting hours: 3 PM to 12 AM (weekends)
Entry fees: None
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6. Antakya Cable Car
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Nestled in the heart of Antakya, the cable car ride combines all its beauty in this single ride. Enjoy the splendour of nature, water and city views of Antakya as you go on this 9-minute car ride. The ride connects the city centre to the Habib-i Neccar Mountain, where you can visit the Habib-i Neccar Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Turkey.
Visiting hours: 10 AM to 6 PM ( except Monday)
Entry fees: TKY 15 ( Adults): TKY 7.5 ( Children)
Best Time To Visit Antakya
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The best time to visit Antakya is in the spring season from April to June. With temperatures in the range of 10 degrees to 23 degrees Celsius, the city is covered with blooming flowers making it a picturesque landscape. The summer season has high temperatures and a hot and dry climate. Even though temperatures reach as high as 35 degrees Celsius, many tourists visit this season.
The fall season from September to November is also ideal for exploring Antakya. With lesser humidity and clear skies, this mild climate will let you enjoy the city. With crowds, this season is ideal for enjoying the major attractions of the city. The winters are marked by heavy rainfall and cold temperatures going as low as 5 degrees Celsius.
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Antakya is filled with joy, enthusiasm and old-world charm. Enjoy this timeless city with your friends and family or solo. The unique cultural experiences here will leave an impression on you forever. If this guide about Antakya motivates you, then there are some of the best packages for a trip to Turkey . Explore the beauty of this Mediterranean countryside and stunning landscapes.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Antakya
How much time is required for a trip to Antakya?
Around 2 to 3 days are enough to explore Antakya. You can also plan to visit the nearby cities and plan your trip.
What religion is followed in Antakya?
Antakya follows diverse religions like Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The city is welcoming to all kinds of tourists.
What are some must-try food items in Antakya?
While visiting Antakya Turkey, you must try their traditional sweet Kunefe made of cottage cheese and sugar syrup. Indulge in the hummus and kebabs of Turkey.
Are non-muslims allowed in the mosques of Turkey?
Yes, non-muslims can enter the mosques. However, make sure to not disturb any ongoing prayer.
What souvenirs can I buy from Antakya?
You can purchase high-quality handicrafts, textiles, or olive oil for your family back home. You can also purchase ceramic handicrafts from here.
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With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!
