Antalya Old Town (Kaleici): Roman Gates & Lively Nights
Kaleici (literally “Inside the Citadel”) is the historic heart of Antalya that beats today with night clubs and fine dining restaurants. This pedestrian friendly quarter features landmarks from Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman rule.
Key Historical Landmarks
Hadrian’s Gate (Uçkapilar)
Even though there are many entrances today, the grand and suggested entrance to Old Town for first timers is Hadrian’s Gate (Uckapilar meaning “The Three Gates”). This is a triple arched gateway erected to commemorate the Roman Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city. The intricate floral ceiling carvings on the marble surface make for an unforgettable entry into the old town.
The Fluted Minaret & Broken Minaret
- Yivliminare Mosque: This is the city’s iconic 13th century Seljuk landmark. The mosque features a 38 meter red brick minaret decorated with dark blue tiles.
- Kesik Minare (Broken Minaret): This landmark shows the multiple cultural layers of the city. It was originally built as a 2nd century Roman temple, later converted into a Byzantine church and finally transformed into an Ottoman mosque.
Hidirlik Tower & Karaalioglu Park
After walking the cobblestone streets of the old town, we suggest a visit to the southwestern edge where the old city walls meet the cliffs. The 2nd century Roman Hidirlik Tower served as both a fortification and a lighthouse. It borders Karaalioglu Park which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains.
The Roman Old Harbor
The Old Harbor was built in a natural cliff recess during the Hellenistic era. Today, it is a busy marina where wooden excursion boats dock.
Visitors can descend the historic stone staircase or take a glass elevator down to the harbor promenade to enjoy boat tours or waterside dining.
The Roman era Old Harbor is lined with cliffside cafes, traditional wooden gulets and seafood restaurants.
Culinary Scene & Restaurant Access
Old Town is one of the top culinary hubs on the Turkish Riviera. There are many options from fine dining and casual street food to tavernas and traditional Aegean & Mediterranean flavors.
- Seafood & Meyhanes: Some of the courtyard gardens nowadays serve as traditional Turkish taverns (meyhane) that mainly serve fresh Mediterranean catch such as red mullet, seabass and grilled octopus accompanied by cold olive oil starters and raki (a drink flavored with aniseed).
- Historic Ottoman Courtyards: Many boutique hotels in restored 19th century timber mansions have romantic garden restaurants that serve Turkish specialties.
- Local Street Specialties: Don’t miss Piyaz (Antalya’s famous white bean salad with tahini, garlic and lemon dressing) served alongside grilled meatballs (kofte) at traditional eateries just outside the old town gates.
Vibrant Nightlife & Evening Energy
After the sun sets, Old Town comes alive with an energetic nightlife scene that caters to every taste.
- Acoustic Pubs & Courtyards Bistros: Cozy stone pubs host live acoustic sessions, jazz performances and rock bands.
- Rooftop & Cliffside Cocktail Lounges: Rooftop bars offer signature cocktails paired with DJ sets and nighttime views of the illuminated coastline.
- Late Night Vibes: Visitors like to hop between intimate wine bars, craft beer gardens and lively dance venues all within easy walking distance.
After sunset, Old Town transforms into a lively nightlife center with acoustic bars and rooftop lounges.
Practical Travel Tips
- Transit: Old Town is situated in central Antalya. The vintage Nostalgia Tram stops directly at Hadrian’s Gate and the clock tower.
- Navigating the Quarter: Download an offline map or simply embrace getting lost in the narrow streets. They naturally lead either up toward the main avenues or down to the harbor.
- Best Time to Explore: Late afternoon into the late evening. Explore the historic sites later in the day to avoid the heat, stay for a drink overlooking the harbor and linger for dinner and nightlife.
