Arykanda is a city next to the craggy crest of the Taurus Mountains, offering a wonderful natural landscape and a magnificent ancient city setting. Arykanda is located in a wonderful valley called Arykandos or Aykırtca, a place of deep beauty and tranquility among pine and cedar trees. It can be reached from the main road from Finike to Elmalı. It is 35 km from Finike and 150 km from Antalya. Arykanda is known as one of the ancient Lycian cities with the ending -anda, indicating its Anatolian origin; its history dates back to the 2nd millennium BC. Well excavated by Turkish archaeologists since 1969, much of the city has been uncovered. There are a total of 4 baths, including a large bathhouse, perhaps the largest in Lycia. Since the Lycians buried their heroes in temple-shaped tombs, visitors are greeted by large monumental temple tombs typical of this region. The city has a state and a public agora, theater, Odeon (concert hall), bouleuterion (parliament building), house and villa ruins. The theater, in particular, has a great location. Above the theater stands the stadion (stadium), one of the finest examples in the ancient world.

The ancient city of Limyra, located 9 km east of Finike at the base of Mount Toçak, was originally called Zemuri, derived from the Hittite word Zumarri. The city's acropolis includes fortifications, cisterns, a Eastern Roman church, and the Heroon of Perikle, a monumental tomb from the 4th century CE. Limyra’s theatre was built during the Hellenistic Period and later repaired in 141 CE. The Ptolemaion, located near the Limyros Stream, is a notable structure along with the cenotaph of Gaius Caesar, adorned with impressive marble reliefs. Limyra is also known for its over 400 rock tombs, providing insights into Lycian culture.

It is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List under the Lycian Way Ancient Cities. Embark on a mesmerizing journey back in time to the heart of ancient civilization at the Olympos Archaeological Site in exquisite Antalya, Türkiye. This captivating locale rich in mythology and antiquity is a veritable nexus where history seamlessly blends with the vibrant hues of nature. As you step into this labyrinth of ancient stones and glorious ruins, you can almost hear the echoes of the Lycians, Romans, and Venetians, whose spirits still permeate this storied paradise. Marvel at the grand amphitheater, the captivating Eastern Roman-era basilicas, the venerable Roman baths, and the intricately detailed sarcophagi, alive with tales of centuries past. Yet, the Olympos Archaeological Site is not just about history. Nestled amidst a lush forest and crowned by the majestic Taurus Mountains, the site offers breathtaking vistas and is a stone's throw from the azure Mediterranean Sea. Enthrall your senses with the intoxicating aroma of pines and the serene melody of birdsong. Take a leisurely dip in the crystal-clear waters or indulge in the warmth of the pristine sun-kissed beaches nearby. Experience the thrilling contrast between the ruins of a city once brimming with life and the thriving, untamed beauty of nature, all in one extraordinary place. Discover the timeless allure of the Olympos Archaeological Site in Antalya, Türkiye - where history whispers and nature sings. Your unforgettable journey through time awaits you. Come, embrace the magic of ancient culture amidst the embracing beauty of the Mediterranean coast.

It is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List as part of the Lycian Way Ancient Cities. Phaselis Ancient City is situated near Kemer in Antalya Province. Established by the people of Rhodes in the 7th century BCE, Phaselis is an ancient port city with three natural harbours. It has a rich history, and its ruins are impressive.

Güllük Mountain-Termessos National Park is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Termessos, is perhaps one of the most attractive ancient cities not only in Türkiye, but all over the world. The Güllük Dağı National Park adds a lot to the beauty of this place. Termessos can be reached easily from Antalya driving 35 km North West along the Denizli – İzmir road. As the “ss” within the name suggests, it was one of the Luwian originated cities, the people of Termessos even went further and noted that “we are neither Pisidian nor Lycians, but we are Solymians” referring to their sacred mountain Solymos (Güllük Dağı) Mountain, where the main deity of the city was also called Zeus Solymeus. Alexander the great failed capturing the city so burnt its olive orchards and continued his campaign as we here from Arrianos. Indeed, it feels like the city is located on an eagle’s nest, fortified with impressive fortifications, almost impregnable. As there were no modern settlement nor roads leading up the city until recently, most buildings are almost intact, gives the visitor a strong feeling as if the blocks just tumbled down yesterday. One must have at least four hours, better all day to visit the city, as Termessos is huge, there are 4 cemeteries with beautiful examples of Pisidian tombs with several reliefs in almost excellent condition, Theater with an amazing view of Mount Solymos, Bouleuterion from the Hellenistic period standing to its original height, very impressive cisterns and water systems, temples, baths, colonnaded streets and obviously the impressive landscape and forests.

Perge Archaeological Site, is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Perge lies some 20 km East of Antalya, on the main road to Alanya. The origins of the city go back to the bronze age, it was called “Parha near river Kaastra” during the Hittite period, became, Perge near the Kestros River in Greek times. The city has been successfully excavated by Turkish archaeologists for over 70 years, and Antalya Museum holds all the magnificent statues unearthed from Perge. Thanks to the excavations and restoration works, the city offers extensive visit of the theater, stadion, city walls, baths, agora, and the colonnaded street which gives the feeling as one is walking through the streets of an ancient city. It was an important harbor of the Roman Imperial period and became very wealthy during this period. As you enter the city through, he late Roman gate, a broad square welcomes you, with Hellenistic towers dominating this square. Immediately on your left, stands the magnificent fountain attached to the baths. The baths of Perge are one of the best examples of the Roman Period baths. You can walk through the colonnaded street, enjoy the water channel that was built in the middle to provide fresh water and cool air, see the shops and civil houses on either side of this street, and walk all the way up to the acropolis to enjoy the view.

Aspendos, located in Antalya, It is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. is home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the World, known for its perfect acoustics and capacity for 15,000 spectators. Built between 138 and 164 CE by architect Zenon, the theatre continues to host performances, including the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival. Aspendos also features remnants of baths, temples, aqueducts, and city walls, reflecting its historical significance. The city’s aqueduct, an engineering marvel, brought water from 25 km away. A legend surrounds the construction of the theatre and aqueduct, with the theatre’s architect winning the king’s favor for its exceptional design.

Step into the pages of history at the astonishing Side Archaeological Site in Antalya, Türkiye. This captivating destination offers a profound journey through the ages, a testament to Türkiye’s remarkable cultural heritage. Uncover a world preserved in time, where ancient temples, awe-inspiring amphitheaters, and Roman baths stand as the resilient remnants of civilizations long past. At every turn, structures dating back to the Roman and Hellenistic periods command your attention. Marvel at the grandeur of the Temple of Apollo or feel a chill down your spine as you stand in the vast, semi-circular Theatre of Side, once the bustling epicentre of entertainment in beautiful Antalya. Not far away, the ancient Agora market place reverberates with echoes of traders bartering their goods in antiquity. As you wander through this stunning archaeological site, you will encounter the beautifully preserved Roman baths that now serve as a museum, narrating the stories of Side's incredible past. The collection of statues and artefacts will take you back thousands of years, letting you marvel at the sophistication and artistic brilliance of the ancient Anatolian civilizations. Visit the Side Archaeological Site in Antalya, Türkiye; step out of your everyday life and into the vibrant tapestry of history that adorns this unforgettable destination. Experience history not just as a tale in a book, but as a tangible, embracing reality. In this adventure, you are not merely an observer but an active participant in a historical narrative that spans millennia. come and immerse yourself in the marvel of the ancient world in Türkiye.

Two neighboring settlements located in the boundaries of Antalya and Muğla provinces of Türkiye, Xanthos-Letoon is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site that sticks out as a remarkable archeological complex. Sources inform that Xanthos was the successive capital, and a cultural and commercial center, of the Lycian Civilization as well as the later civilizations. The region now gives out many clues about Lycian traditions as the epigraphic inscriptions there, engraved in rock or on huge stone pillars, house the most important texts in the Lycian language. Its examples of Lycian tomb architecture as well as The Xanthian Obelisk are among the places that you should definitely pay a visit. Plenty of renowned historians make mention of Xanthos as the largest city in Lycia, not excluding Homer.

Patara was once a very mighty city. History has it that Patara was founded by Patarus, a son of Apollo, and that the Temple of Patara rivaled that of the Temple of Delphi. Patara, through the ages, was a key city under Lycian rule, and later under the governance of Ancient City-States and the Ptolemies, and finally an important Roman port city. Because of its layered history, there are architectural remnants to explore, including Lycian sarcophagi, baths and basilicas from the Eastern Romans, and Roman boulevards to stroll down. Here are the best parts of Patara Ancient City!

Located between Kaş and Demre districts, 195 km southwest of Antalya, ancient Simena, now known as Kaleköy, was a small Lycian coastal city. It was a strategic point inhabited from the fourth century BCE to the present. The ruin that reflects this feature most vividly is the castle that has remained intact until today. From this castle, it is possible to watch the best views of Kekova and its surroundings. Kekova, which gives its name to the region, is the general name of the region that includes the 7.4-kilometer-long island, 500 meters from the shore, right across Simena and Simena, Teimiussa (Üçağız), Aperlai Pier (Sıçak İskelesi), Aquarium Bay (Akvaryum Koyu) and Gökkaya Bay (Gökkaya Koyu). The northern shores of Kekova Island (Kekova Adası) overlooking Simena are full of traces of the civilization that was partially submerged in the earthquakes in ancient times, such as stone stairs, house ruins, pier ruins, and half in the water, half of which extend to the depths of 4-5 meters in the sea. Simena is located on the peninsula opposite Kekova Island. Between Kaleköy and Üçağız, one can observe the remains of the road and dock that were submerged towards the shore among the small islets that were used as stone quarries for sarcophagi.

The ancient city of Myra, listed on the UNESCO Tentative World Heritage List, takes its name in the Lycian language from the word for the myrrh plant, as derived from terms meaning "daily" and "myrrh" in historical texts. Located 140 km west of Antalya, Myra’s current name is Demre. The coastal road from Antalya to Fethiye leads to the city with spectacular views. Visitors are welcomed by the magnificent view of the Lycian Rock Tombs situated among citrus groves and next to the great theater from the Roman Period. The ancient theaters were dedicated to Dionysus. Dionysus often descended to the underworld to visit his mother, Semele. The Lycians beautifully represented this mythological story by building the tombs and theater side by side. The tombs are mostly “house type,” imitating wooden Lycian houses on the rock, some of which still display clearly visible reliefs. The ancient theater is very well-preserved, and recent excavations have revealed that it was built on top of an existing Hellenistic theater. A recently excavated chapel can also be seen just outside the theater. Adventurers should visit the acropolis hill with its early walls, the ancient steps climbing up to it, and the spectacular view over the Demre plain. Myra’s second-largest necropolis is located in the eastern part of the Demre Valley. This rarely visited area also contains beautiful tombs and reliefs. Caution is advised when climbing these tombs, as there are no steps or railings.