Antalya Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Antalya

A gateway to Turkey's southern Mediterranean, Antalya was founded circa 150 BC by Hellenic King Attalus II of Pergamon, and was named Attaleia or Attalia in his honor. Today, this name is still used in Greek, whereas in Turkish it has evolved as Adalia and eventually Antalya.

Throughout its history, the city changed hands several times. Not long after its foundation – in 133 BC – it was taken over by the Romans, under whose rule Attalia thrived. Centuries later, it became a major city in the Byzantine Empire until, in 1207, it fell to the Seljuk Sultanate, and then to an expanding Ottoman Empire, in 1391. The latter brought relative peace and stability to the region for the next 500 years.

In the 20th century, the local population increased as the Turks from the Caucasus and the Balkans moved in. In the aftermath of World War I, from March 1919 to July 1921, the city was occupied by Italy, but was recaptured by a newly independent Turkey during the War of Independence. Large-scale development, started in the 1970s, transformed Antalya into one of Turkey's largest metropolitan areas.

Much of this has been due to tourism, which expanded in the 21st century to account for up to 30% of foreigners visiting the country. Divine beaches with turquoise waters flanked by comfortable hotels, mild weather, and soaring cliffs – all these have been like a siren call to Antalya. Also adding to its appeal are an array of famous attractions, such as Hadrian’s Gate, built to honor the Roman emperor’s visit in 130 AD, and 2nd-century Hidirlik Tower, plus a yacht-filled Old City Marina, Old Bazaar full of Oriental character, Atatürk Boulevard – one of the Old Town's main thoroughfares, and many others.

If you wish to acquaint yourself more fully with the popular attractions of this brilliant Turkish resort city and explore its sights that have caught visitor’s eye with their beauty for decades, if not centuries, take this self-guided introductory walk.