Solo in Turkey: Exploring the Gifts of Antalya

Updated November 2024

As winter approaches, I couldn’t imagine a better getaway than a Mediterranean coast vacation in Antalya, Turkey. Admittedly, I discovered this location because of the twinkling lights in the Land of Legends mall. Thankful for the inspiration, I booked a round-trip flight from Copenhagen to Antalya and embarked on my journey.

Antalya is situated on Turkey’s southwestern coast along the Mediterranean sea. Temperatures vary throughout the year but generally stay between 41 and 94 degrees Fahrenheit. During my late spring visit, the heat was grueling, especially compared to Copenhagen. Despite the temperature itself being in the 80s, the humidity made outside feel much hotter. If you dislike hot, humid weather, I suggest visiting Antalya from early Fall (September) through early spring (April).

Turkey is more conservative than America, so dressing conservatively is recommended. As a solo traveler, I aim to avoid standing out, so I chose outfits that covered my knees and shoulders and weren’t form fitting. Since Antalya is regarded as a beachy and tourist location, I saw other travelers that wore skinny strap dresses around the town. Still, to be on the safe side, I would match the conservative dressing style especially when traveling off of the resort.

Where To Stay in Antalya

The Elysium Green Suites checked every box for both affordability and luxury. Just a 15 minute drive from the airport and a 10 minute drive into the town center. The entrance opens up to a stunning pool, and each suite is decorated with coral colors, gold accent, and stunning fixtures. My two-night stay was under $130 for a private room and ensuite bathroom. Breakfast was included in the price which included a full spread of breads, fruits, teas, meats, and more.

Best Things To Do in Antalya  

During my brief stay, I booked a tour with Viator to explore Antalya’s historic ruins. I booked the Perge, Aspendos, Side and Waterfall day tour which included a round-trip destination from my hotel and included lunch. Since this route is popular, I recommend shopping around Viator, TripAdvisor, and Get Your Guide for the best price. Must-see historical sites in Antalya included the ancient city of Perge, Roman amphitheater in Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfalls, all highlights of my tour plus a stop for Turkish ice-cream along the way. I think group tours are a great way to safely explore a new destination and socialize with other travelers, especially as a solo traveler.

Antalya lacks rideshare services like Uber, Lyft, or Bolt, so you will need to rely on rental cars or taxis. Rather than figuring out how to call a Taxi, I scheduled transportation to the Land of Legends mall through Elysium Green Suites. I was excited to experience the twinkling flights of Antalya and dine at a well known restaurant nearby. Entrance to the Land of Legends is free, though entrance to the theme park requires a ticket. The theme park is a great option if you’re traveling with kids and are looking for extra excitement. You can find more information on availability and pricing HERE.

The night show starts around 8/8:30 PM local time and includes the lighting of a castle, water works displayed, and music. 

For dinner, I dined at the spectacular Nemo Restaurant & Lounge, known for its floor-to-ceiling aquarium display in the dining room. Guests can reserve tables with a direct view of the aquarium which sets a romantic ambiance throughout the dining experience. The menu features a combination of European and Pan-Asian cuisine which I indulged in without regret.  

Antalya Solo Travel Tips

Antalya is a beautiful destination, and I felt safe throughout my travels. The staff of Elysium Green Suites were warm and welcoming. If I could do things differently, I would:

• Stay on a beachfront property
  • Even during my short stay, I would have appreciated the convenience of a beachfront property for easy access to the ocean.
    
• Extend my stay to 4-5 nights
  • I stayed for only two nights, but I believe 4-5 nights is optimal to enjoy the beaches, explore the city, and indulge in the local cuisine
    
• Bring more cash
  • Unlike Copenhagen or the United States, Antalya operates largely on cash. I had to use an ATM to exchange money to cash since taxi drivers and other services did not accept credit cards.
    
• Get a rental car
  • Antalya isn’t a metropolis with access to public transportation or ride share services. Taxis were expensive and alternative options were limited. Having a car would have made exploring the area easier and more affordable.