Tips to Save Money When Travelling to Antalya, Turkey

Exploring Antalya on a Budget: 5 Essential Tips for Affordable Travel

Antalya, the jewel of Turkey's Mediterranean coast, is a destination that effortlessly blends ancient history with modern allure. From its pristine beaches to its rich cultural heritage, Antalya has something for every traveler. But what if you’re on a budget? Fortunately, cheap travel to Antalya is entirely possible without compromising on the experience. In this article, we’ll delve into five essential tips for saving money while exploring Antalya, including how to find cheap flights, budget accommodations, and affordable activities. We’ll also highlight how Skyscanner can be your best friend when planning an affordable trip to this stunning Turkish city.

1. Plan Your Travel During the Off-Peak Season

One of the most effective ways to save money when traveling to Antalya is to plan your trip during the off-peak season. Antalya's peak tourist season is typically from June to August when the weather is hot, and the beaches are crowded. However, if you’re looking to enjoy a more tranquil experience while saving money, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons—April to May and September to October.

During these months, you’ll find that flight prices drop significantly, hotel rates are more affordable, and tourist attractions are less crowded. The weather during these periods is still pleasant, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, many local vendors and tour operators offer discounts during the off-peak season to attract tourists, allowing you to enjoy the same experiences at a fraction of the cost.

Image: Antalya's Old Town (Kaleiçi) during spring—less crowded and budget-friendly.

2. Use Skyscanner for Cheap Flights, Hotels, and Car Rentals

When it comes to booking your trip to Antalya, Skyscanner is an invaluable tool for finding the best deals on flights, accommodations, and car rentals. Skyscanner’s user-friendly interface allows you to compare prices across multiple airlines, hotels, and car rental companies, ensuring you get the best possible price.

Cheap Flights to Antalya: Skyscanner's "Everywhere" feature is perfect for those with flexible travel plans. By selecting "Everywhere" as your destination, you can explore the cheapest flights available from your departure city. For those set on Antalya, simply input the city, and Skyscanner will show you a variety of flight options. You can sort these by price, flight duration, or even airline preference. Additionally, setting up price alerts ensures you’ll be notified when ticket prices drop, allowing you to snag the best deals.

Budget Accommodations: Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a cozy budget hotel, Skyscanner’s hotel search tool helps you find the perfect place to stay. The platform aggregates listings from multiple booking sites, allowing you to compare prices and choose the most affordable option. For those truly looking to save, consider staying in smaller, family-run pensions (guesthouses) in Antalya’s Old Town (Kaleiçi). These accommodations often provide a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost of larger hotels.

Affordable Car Rentals: If you plan to explore beyond Antalya, renting a car can be a cost-effective way to travel. Skyscanner’s car rental tool lets you compare rental prices from various providers, helping you find the most affordable option. Renting a car also gives you the flexibility to visit nearby attractions like the ancient city of Perge or the Düden Waterfalls without the need for expensive guided tours.

3. Explore Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Antalya is brimming with natural beauty and historical sites, many of which are free or low-cost to visit. By prioritizing these attractions, you can enjoy a rich travel experience without breaking the bank.

Beaches: Antalya is famous for its stunning beaches, and the best part is that most of them are free to access. Konyaaltı Beach and Lara Beach are two of the most popular options, offering crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. Pack a picnic, bring your own beach gear, and spend the day soaking up the sun without spending a dime.

Historical Sites: The city’s rich history is on full display at various ancient sites. The Hadrian's Gate, a triumphal arch built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, is a must-visit and is located right in the heart of the city. You can also stroll through Kaleiçi, the old town of Antalya, with its narrow cobblestone streets, historic houses, and charming boutiques—free of charge.

Natural Wonders: For those who love nature, a visit to the Düden Waterfalls or the Köprülü Canyon National Park is a must. These sites offer stunning views and are either free or require a nominal entrance fee. For a small cost, you can also take a boat trip to explore the lower Düden Falls as they cascade into the Mediterranean Sea.

4. Eat Like a Local

Eating out in Antalya doesn’t have to be expensive. By avoiding touristy restaurants and opting for local eateries, you can enjoy delicious, authentic Turkish cuisine at a fraction of the cost.

Street Food: Turkish street food is not only tasty but also incredibly affordable. Don’t miss out on trying dishes like simit (a sesame-coated bread similar to a bagel), gözleme (a savory Turkish flatbread), and döner kebab. These can be found at street vendors and local markets throughout the city.

Lokantas: Lokantas are traditional Turkish diners that offer home-cooked meals at very reasonable prices. These eateries typically have a variety of stews, grilled meats, and vegetable dishes, allowing you to sample a range of Turkish flavors without overspending. Many lokantas also offer set menus, which include a starter, main course, and dessert for a fixed price.

Markets: If you’re staying in a self-catering accommodation, shopping at local markets can save you even more money. Antalya's markets are full of fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and bread, allowing you to prepare your meals at a fraction of the cost of dining out. The weekly markets, such as the one in the Lara district, are particularly popular and offer a wide range of products.

Image: A vibrant street market in Antalya—perfect for budget-friendly shopping.

5. Use Public Transportation and Walk

Transportation costs can add up quickly, but Antalya offers several budget-friendly options that can help you get around without spending too much.

Public Buses and Trams: Antalya’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. The city’s buses and trams connect most major tourist sites, beaches, and neighborhoods. The AntRay tram line, for example, runs from the city center to the Antalya Museum, Konyaaltı Beach, and the Antalya Bus Terminal. A single ride costs just a few Turkish liras, making it an economical way to explore the city.

Walking: Many of Antalya’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking not only saves you money but also allows you to experience the city at a more leisurely pace, discovering hidden gems along the way. The Old Town (Kaleiçi), with its maze of narrow streets and historic architecture, is best explored on foot.

Biking: For those who enjoy cycling, Antalya has a growing network of bike lanes and rental options. Renting a bike is both a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to get around, especially along the scenic routes by the coast.

Image: Antalya’s AntRay tram—a budget-friendly way to explore the city.

Conclusion

Traveling to Antalya on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By planning your trip during the off-peak season, using tools like Skyscanner to find the best deals, and prioritizing free and low-cost activities, you can enjoy all that Antalya has to offer without stretching your budget. Whether you’re lounging on one of its beautiful beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or savoring local cuisine, Antalya promises a memorable experience that won’t break the bank.

So, start planning your cheap travel to Antalya today, and get ready to explore this stunning Turkish destination without the hefty price tag. Safe travels!

Image: A panoramic view of Antalya’s stunning coastline.