A Guide to the Antalya Coast: Resorts, Distances and What to Expect

The Antalya province, often referred to as the Turkish Riviera, stretches for over 350 kilometres along the Mediterranean coast of southern Turkey. For British holidaymakers, it has become one of the most popular summer destinations. The combination of warm sea, sandy beaches, and ancient history makes it an easy choice for families and couples alike.

If you are planning your first or second trip to this part of Turkey, the geography can seem a bit overwhelming. The region is not just a single resort, but a collection of distinct towns and districts, each with its own character. Understanding where your hotel is located in relation to Antalya Airport (AYT) will help you plan your journey and manage your travel day.

The Gateway: Antalya Airport

Your holiday begins at Antalya Airport. It is a large, modern airport with two main international terminals situated about 13 kilometres northeast of Antalya city centre.

After landing, clearing passport control, and collecting your luggage, you will exit the terminal building into the arrivals area. This is where your onward journey begins. Depending on which resort you have booked, your travel time can range from twenty minutes to over two hours.

Lara Beach: The Closest Resort

If you do not want a long journey after your flight, Lara Beach is the most convenient option. Located just 15 kilometres south of the airport, the drive takes around 20 to 25 minutes.

Lara is famous for its long stretch of sandy beach and its line of large, all-inclusive hotels. Many of these properties are designed to look like famous international landmarks. Because of the short travel time, it is highly popular with families travelling with toddlers or young children who might be restless after a four-hour flight from the UK.

Belek: Golf and Luxury

Heading east from the airport along the D400 motorway, the next major destination is Belek. It is situated approximately 35 kilometres from the airport, with a journey time of around 40 minutes.

Belek is widely known as the golfing capital of the region, featuring several championship courses designed by international players. The hotels here are generally high-end, set back in pine forests with direct access to wide, sandy beaches. It is a quieter, more spread-out resort compared to Lara.

Side: History and Sandy Bays

Further east, about 65 kilometres from Antalya Airport, lies the historic town of Side. The journey here takes approximately one hour.

Side is unique because the modern resort is built around well-preserved Roman ruins. You can walk through the ancient city gate to reach the harbour, passing the Temple of Apollo and an ancient amphitheatre. The town features two main beaches: the west beach is shallow and sandy, making it excellent for families, while the east beach is quieter and more pebbly.

Alanya: The Far East

Alanya is the furthest major resort to the east, located roughly 125 kilometres from the airport. The drive takes about two hours, depending on traffic along the coastal road.

Alanya is a bustling city in its own right, dominated by a medieval castle on a rocky peninsula. It offers a lively atmosphere, plenty of shops, and the famous Cleopatra Beach. While the journey is longer, many holidaymakers find the vibrant town life and lower hotel prices worth the extra travel time.

Kemer: Mountains and Pine Forests

If you travel west from the airport instead of east, you will reach Kemer. This resort is about 60 kilometres from the airport, and the drive takes around one hour.

Unlike the flat sandy plains of Belek and Side, the landscape in Kemer is defined by the Taurus Mountains, which drop directly into the sea. The beaches here are mostly shingle or pebble, which keeps the sea water exceptionally clear. It is a popular spot for outdoor activities, boat trips, and exploring national parks.

Organising Your Onward Travel

When you book a package holiday, coach transport is often included. However, these coaches wait for passengers from multiple flights to arrive and then stop at various hotels along the route to drop people off. This can easily double your travel time.

If you prefer to get to your hotel quickly, booking a private transfer from Antalya Airport is a practical alternative. A private vehicle will take you directly to your hotel without any intermediate stops. This is particularly helpful if you are travelling with heavy luggage, a pushchair, or golf clubs, as everything goes straight into the boot of your dedicated vehicle.

Practical Tips for Your Arrival

• Currency: The local currency is the Turkish Lira. While many shops and restaurants in tourist areas accept Euros or British Pounds, you will usually get a better rate paying in Lira. Card payments are widely accepted, but it is useful to have some cash for small purchases or tips.
• Plugs: Turkey uses the standard European two-pin plug. You will need an adapter for your British three-pin devices.
• Passports: British citizens travelling to Turkey for a holiday do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive.

By planning your route and understanding the layout of the Antalya coast, you can ensure a smooth start to your Mediterranean holiday.