In a previous post I listed some ideas of things to see if you should find yourself visiting this bustling and chaotic city of Antalya. My days have been full, wandering around and seeing all that I can without any cost. Here are 5 more free things to do in Antalya that I think are worth a look.
Yivliminare Mosque
Guaranteed, if you have wandered around near old town, you will have seen this stunning fluted minaret rising into the sky above. This is Yivliminare Mosque that was built in the 16th century. Visitors are allowed inside at non prayer times.
Women will need a head scarf and long pants or skirt. If you don’t have either, they provide them free of charge. Inside you can see the gorgeous brickwork especially up in the domes. The space is peaceful and quiet and a lovely opportunity to view a unique piece of local history.
Roman Harbour
A must see for visitors to Old Town Kaleici is the ancient Roman harbour. Built more than 2,000 years ago and surrounded by a massive stone wall, this quaint little marina was up until quite recently, the main harbour for the city of Antalya.
Today, have a wander around, look at all of the active fishing boats and watch the fishermen repairing nets while cats wait patiently for a morsel. On the opposite side of the harbour are the tourist boats, mainly pirate ships which are highly entertaining to see, the kids will love them.
At the back, near the wall, is a cat sanctuary. If you are needing a little furry love, you can find it here without looking twice.
Dervish Lodge Museum
Or Mevlevihane Muzesi is a fantastic little free museum right in the heart of Kaleici. Located over a few stone buildings and surrounding courtyards, this lovely authentic oasis will get you feeling like you have arrived in Turkey.
Old artifacts are contained in glass cases with several rooms to explore. The large central room contains the highest dome and the upper floor is carpeted with soft cushions for seating. Walk around outside for there are two large old tombs to discover as well as remnants of an Ottoman cemetery.
Kaleici Panoramic Elevator
If you find yourself down in the Roman harbour, look towards the ancient city walls to the left. Here you will spot a tall glass structure which is in fact the Kaleici Panoramic Elevator.
Its free to ride and will take you to the upper area of Old Town where you will get magnificent views over the harbour and Mediterranean Sea. The doors themselves are looking a little grungy these days, and the glass is not spotless. But the magic is when you arrive to the upper level of the cliffs. Walk onto the glass platform behind the elevator, and take in the best scenic views around.
Antalya Ethnographic Museum
Yep another totally free museum in the city! And this one is definitely worth the time. Situated in two large old Ottoman houses, with accompanying gardens, one will see case after case of antiquities from home life of years past. Both large houses are full of rooms with displays and model décor. A fascinating find to see how everyday life was lived in this area.
But my absolute favourite part is located in a courtyard between the two houses. An actual Ottoman cemetery! Surround by beautiful carved marble pieces from ancient sites, this little cemetery sits in the middle. Have a look at the gorgeous headstones, and read my blog post about this site for some unique and interesting information.
I hope these posts give you an idea of the abundance of free things to do and see here in Antalya that are completely budget friendly. I am tempted to write a third post as there is so much more I could talk about. Happy & free Turkish travel my friends.
