Kaleiçi (Old Antalya)

From Turkey Travel Guide

[edit] History

Modern Antalya wasn't didn't come into existence until after the Second World War. Until then, the city consisted only of what is today called Kaleiçi, the inner town, protected by stone walls with watch towers every 20 meters. The walls still standing today were built in Roman times, on top of Hellenic foundations. The city passed subsequently under control of the Seljuks, who rebuilt and widened the walls, and later the Ottoman Empire. Kaleiçi's narrow roads and old fashioned houses have been preserved and are now protected as a historical area.

[edit] Navigation

The harbor is on the west side of the city, including the circular Roman harbor. Pieces of the city wall still stand throughout the neighborhood. The outskirts are bordered by the tram line.

[edit] Getting there

Antalya is easily reached by plane and bus. From the airport, the old city can be reached with one of seven daily Havas buses for about 5 lira. From the Otogar, the Terminal Otobüsü takes passengers to the city twice an hour.

[edit] Getting around

For the most part, Kaleiçi is easily walked. A tram circles around the outside of the historic downtown area, but stops are too distant to be useful for most sightseeing within it.

[edit] See

Hadrian's Gate, a Roman city gate built in the second century AD by Emperor Hadrian.

Kesik Minare (Cut Minaret) Mosque dates from Roman times, later converted into a mosque. It's named for its half burnt minaret.

Yivli Minare (Fluted Minaret) Mosque is a Seljuk building decorated with dark blue and turquoise tiles, and one of the symbols of the city.

Hidirlik Tower was a watchtower and lighthouse, now situated in a lovely park.

Iskele (Ferry) Mosque is near the waterfront on four stone cut pillars over a natural spring.

The Clock Tower, part of the city walls, was built in the second century AD and is another of the symbols of the city.

[edit] Do

The main activities in the downtown area are shopping and wandering through the historic architecture.

Nearby Konyaalti and Lara beaches are close enough for a swimming trip.

From the harbor, boats offer Mediterranean cruises and tours.

[edit] Eat

Kirk Merdiven serves quality Turkish food with a lovely courtyard.

Coco Bar has excellent kebabs.

Kisemet Balikcisi is one of the many excellent seafood restaurants along the shore.

[edit] Drink

One of the best choices is a seaside pub for a quiet drink, but the old city also has a variety of bars and clubs.

Ally's and Club 29 are two of the most popular dance clubs.

[edit] Sleep

Most of the cheap options are Balik Pazari Sokak. Good choices include basic but tidy pensions like Lazer Pansiyon, Sabah Pansiyon, and Senem Family Pansiyon.

Good midrange choices are Hadriyanüs Hotel, White Garden Pension, Frankfurt Hotel, all clean with good service.

The highest end hotel is the Sheraton Voyager Hotel, a stylish modern construction. Other options are Alp Pasa Butik Otel, and Tuvana Hotel, with all the modern comforts and Ottoman-esque style.

[edit] External links