Guide to the Best Districts of Antalya for Leisure and Living: Tips and Recommendation

In our new publication, we will not only delve into the topic of the number of districts in Antalya but also explore their main characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.

Antalya Districts on the Map of Turkey

Antalya on the map of Turkey:

Detailed map of Antalya with districts:

Muratpaşa (Muratpaşa)

One of the top districts in Antalya is the central district of Muratpaşa. This is where the historical quarters of the city are located, including the popular Kaleiçi (Old Town) and Lara.

It includes 64 micro-districts or mahalles.

Area - 89.1 km².

Permanent population - approximately 530,000 people.

The city municipality borders the Kepez, Aksu, and Konyaaltı districts.

Muratpaşa district on the map:

Construction Features and Housing Prices

Buying real estate in the center of Antalya is attractive for foreigners both for relocation purposes and for prospective financial investments, including earning income from rent or resale.

Properties located by the sea offer excellent panoramic views. In the center of Muratpaşa, due to dense construction and predominance of old residential buildings, real estate is not as popular and slightly cheaper than in coastal quarters.

Infrastructure

Muratpaşa is a fully developed district. All infrastructure facilities are located near residential quarters:

• office centers;
• popular shopping malls like TerraCity, Mark Antalya;
• chain supermarkets and markets;
• municipal clinic, private medical centers, dental clinics;
• kindergartens and schools, such as the private Moscow International School;
• cafes, restaurants;
• fitness clubs and more.

The international Antalya Airport is nearby.

Historical Landmarks

The main attractions of Antalya are concentrated in the historical quarters of Muratpaşa:

• Hadrian's Gate,
• Hydırlık Tower,
• Yivli Minaret,
• Antalya Toy Museum,
• Ethnographic Museum of Antalya, and others.

Beaches

The coastline of Muratpaşa spans 22 km, however, much of it is rocky with steep cliffs. The most popular beaches are Lara and Konyaaltı. The former is located in the eastern part of the city, while the latter is in the western part. The Mermerli Beach in Kaleiçi is also popular.

Access to the water is difficult, but there are areas equipped with stairs and piers. The main advantage is the clean sea.

The sections of the coastline belonging to hotels are fully equipped: sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach bars are available for rent.

Advantages of the Area

1. The urban infrastructure is highly developed.
2. Good transportation accessibility.
3. Proximity to historical and natural landmarks.
4. A wide selection of apartments in both primary and secondary markets.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. Almost constant tourist activity.
2. Overpriced costs, especially around tourist spots.
3. Higher property prices.
4. Rocky coastline.

Lara

Lara is a picturesque, prestigious resort area where affluent tourists and lovers of unique historical landmarks prefer to relax. The mahalle belongs territorially to the Muratpaşa district. It is known among the elite districts of Antalya for its high-quality liquid real estate and a full range of infrastructure for comfortable living.

Distance to the airport - 10 km.

Lara district on the map:

Construction Features and Housing Prices

The active construction of new residential complexes in the Lara area in recent years has contributed to a significant increase in the number of real estate transactions concluded with investors from abroad.

Real estate in Lara is in demand for several reasons:

• high quality of construction works;
• improved apartment layouts;
• complete improvement of the courtyard area;
• diverse internal infrastructure, including pools, SPA, barbecue areas, and more.

Prices for Lara real estate with sea views are usually higher than in other resort areas. Buyers are guaranteed a wide choice of properties.

Infrastructure

The Lara area in Antalya has excellent social infrastructure and public transportation. Among the public facilities are schools (including those teaching in Russian), tourism colleges, clinics, shops and markets, office centers, parks and squares, fountains, and more.

On the coast, entertainment is available both day and night, as most catering establishments and nightclubs are located here.

Historical Landmarks

There are no significant historical and cultural monuments in the mahalle. However, Lara's main natural attraction is the picturesque Lower Duden Waterfall located in Duden Park.

Beaches

In the Lara micro-district, there is a rocky coastline, which makes access to the sea more difficult but also guarantees visitors stunning views. Along the entire coastline runs a promenade with restaurants and cafes.

Here is also one of the most picturesque sandy beaches in Antalya - Lara Beach, which territorially begins on its outskirts, near the Kundu district.

Lara Beach has been awarded the prestigious "Blue Flag" as the most beautiful, safe, and well-equipped beach.

Advantages of the Area

1. Has everything needed for living and recreation.
2. Picturesque views of the sea and mountains.
3. Own sandy beach.
4. The real estate market is represented by new, high-quality residential complexes.
5. Lara is considered one of the best districts of Antalya for recreation.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. Overpriced cost of apartments and accommodation.
2. During the beach season, there are many vacationers.

Konyaaltı

Konyaaltı is the best district in Antalya for Russians, as a large number of foreigners here are citizens of the Russian Federation.

Konyaaltı consists of 36 mahalles, some of which are located on the coast, while others are in the depths of the district. Quarters such as Arapsuyu and Gürsu are expensive and prestigious. Micro-districts like Hurma, Sarısu, and Liman are often chosen by foreigners for permanent residence and vacation.

Area - 546 km².

Permanent population - about 200,000 people.

Geographically, the district adjoins the Mediterranean Sea and borders Muratpaşa and Kepez. To the north, it is surrounded by the Taurus Mountains.

Konyaaltı district on the map:

Construction Features and Housing Prices

The real estate market in Konyaaltı is represented by a variety of properties: from inexpensive budget apartments to elite residences with exclusive finishes.

The district is built with low-rise and high-rise buildings. There are modern residential complexes with hotel infrastructure and closed territories.

An additional advantage of buying real estate in Konyaaltı is the presence of centralized gasification in some complexes, which significantly increases the level of comfort for living in the winter months.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure of Konyaaltı includes all necessary facilities for living and recreation:

• good transport interchange and bus station Otogar;
• chain supermarkets Migros, Bim, A101, and farmers' market;
• large shopping malls, such as Migros 5M;
• educational institutions, for example, Akdeniz Universitesi;
• medical centers: Ak

Advantages of the Area

1. Full-fledged, modern urban planning.
2. Quality real estate can be found near the beaches.
3. Large Russian-speaking diaspora, Russian school.
4. Good beaches.
5. Relatively peaceful, residential area.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. Due to high demand, property prices in Konyaaltı are constantly rising.
2. High cost of living.
3. Some micro-districts are closed for obtaining initial residence permits due to the influx of foreigners.

Aksu

The Aksu River flows through the territory of Aksu, which gave the name to this popular mahalle in Antalya. Active construction of the municipality began relatively recently; nevertheless, today, surrounded by pines and olive trees, luxurious resort hotels and residential complexes are concentrated here.

Area - 445 km².

Permanent population - about 77,000 people.

Distance to the city center - approximately 18 km.

Borders with Kepez, Muratpaşa, Döşemealtı, and Serik.

Aksu district on the map:

Construction Features and Housing Prices

The cost of real estate in Aksu depends on the area, location, and infrastructure of residential complexes. The market offers both new houses and properties built several years ago.

Infrastructure

Aksu has everything for life. Moreover, there are entertainment venues: restaurants, cafes, discos, water parks, and much more.

A significant part of the district's territory is occupied by fruit orchards and greenhouses, as agriculture is one of the main sources of income for the local population.

Historical Landmarks

There are almost no historical landmarks in Aksu.

One of the most interesting places for tourists is the ruins of the ancient city of Perge, which are located 3 km northeast of the district.

Among the natural attractions, the Kurşunlu Waterfall, located in the Aksu Natural Park, is popular.

Beaches

Aksu has an extensive sandy coastline, ideal for family vacations. Most of the beaches belong to the Kundu micro-district, which we will discuss later.

Advantages of the Area

1. The area is suitable for living with children.
2. Reasonable property prices.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. Not all micro-districts have access to the sea.
2. Lack of historical and cultural landmarks.

Altıntaş

Altıntaş is one of the most progressive and rapidly developing districts of the city of Antalya. It is a mahalle of the large municipality of Aksu, which, quite possibly, will become a separate administrative unit in the near future.

Area - 9.3 km².

Permanent population - approximately 10,000 people.

Distance from Antalya International Airport - only 2 km.

Borders with Güzeloba, Mandırlar, Kundu, and Ermenek.

Altıntaş district on the map:

Construction Features and Housing Prices

Altıntaş is being developed according to a comprehensive master plan developed several years ago.

Today, it is already considered popular among property buyers in Antalya from the developer. One reason is the opportunity to purchase housing in Altıntaş inexpensively at the foundation stage, on an interest-free installment plan. Moreover, as the area develops and builds up, the investment value of residential properties in the micro-district will increase.

Infrastructure

Altıntaş in Antalya has all the essential infrastructure.

Along with residential development in the micro-district, construction of schools, kindergartens, shopping centers, stores, parks, and squares is underway.

Moreover, Altıntaş is very close to major shopping malls in Antalya, such as Mall of Antalya, Depo, and TerraCity.

Advantages of the Area

1. A promising, developing area in terms of real estate investment.
2. It has a clear urban development plan, which initially includes wide avenues, parking lots, parks, and more.
3. The only district of Antalya located at a short distance from the coast where there are still available plots for construction.
4. Modern residential complexes with diverse infrastructure at favorable prices.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. The social infrastructure is at a developmental stage.
2. It does not have its own beaches.

Kundu

Kundu is the newest and rapidly developing mahalle (neighborhood) in the territory of Aksu, a prestigious district of Antalya. It is known for its luxurious hotels, picturesque coastline, and good ecological environment.

Population: over 2,000 people.

Borders with the neighborhoods of Güzelyurt, Altınkum, Kemergazi, Mandırlar, Boztepe, Kumköy.

Located 10 km from Antalya Airport. Approximately 23 km to the historical quarters of the city.

Kundu district on the map:

Features of Construction and Housing Prices

Real estate in Kundu is mostly aimed at tourists rather than foreigners planning relocation to Turkey. Nevertheless, as the neighborhood develops, it becomes increasingly attractive for permanent residence.

The housing market offers buyers comfortable villas and apartments in new complexes at reasonable prices, which are built next to upscale hotels.

Infrastructure

Kundu boasts good tourist infrastructure: hotels, cozy cafes, restaurants, and numerous shopping venues are located near the coast.

For living, there is a set of necessary social and commercial facilities. Improvement works in the neighborhood are ongoing.

Historical Attractions

There are no specific landmarks in Kundu. However, nearby is the ancient Roman city of Perge, where stadiums, colonnaded squares, a theater, residential buildings, and much more have survived to this day.

Beaches

Kundu has its own beach, separated from the Lara Beach only by the mouth of a river. Therefore, most tourists consider it an extension of the Lara district beach.

The length of the beach in Kundu is 6 km. The coastline is sandy and gently sloping. Swimming is inconvenient in the southern part due to cliffs and rocks. Developed sections of the coastline alternate with practically wild ones. Nevertheless, the shoreline is suitable for beach recreation.

Advantages of the Area

1. The airport and popular districts of Antalya are located close to Kundu.
2. The tourist infrastructure is well developed.
3. Apartments, along with the development of the area, are guaranteed to appreciate in value.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. Social infrastructure facilities are less developed compared to other popular districts of Antalya.
2. There are no historical landmarks.

Kepez

Kepez is the largest and relatively young district of Antalya compared to other neighborhoods. It began to be built and developed relatively recently. Located 10-15 km from the sea.

Area - 292 km².

Permanent population - over 590,000 people. 

Distance to Alanya Airport - 13 km, to the city center - 15 km.

Borders with Konyaaltı, Muratpaşa, Aksu, Döşemealtı.

Kepez district on the map:

Construction Features and Housing Prices

Kepez is divided into several micro-districts. The housing market is represented by various objects, the cost of which depends on the location, infrastructure, and class of apartments.

Housing in Kepez is suitable for living with children due to its large area and convenient layout. The cost is affordable compared to the districts near the sea.

Infrastructure

Kepez has convenient transport links and urban transport routes. By metro, trams, and buses, you can quickly reach any district of Antalya.

For residents, the following are available:

• hospitals such as Memorial, OFM, Akdeniz Şifa;
• private kindergartens, schools;
• chain supermarkets, shops, markets;
• shopping centers Özdilek, Erasta, Deepo, and much more.

Advantages of the Area

1. Good transportation and social infrastructure.
2. A green area with numerous squares and parks.
3. Reasonable prices for buying and renting apartments.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. Does not have its own coastline.
2. The return on investment, compared to other areas, is relatively low.
3. Kepex includes disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Döşemealtı

The popular district of Antalya's resort, Döşemealtı, is located away from the sea, approximately 18 km from the historical center, near the Antalya-Burdur highway.

Döşemealtı boasts stunning nature, a tranquil atmosphere, and fresh air. Being situated at a higher elevation surrounded by pine forests, the temperature here is several degrees cooler than on the coast.

Area: 687 km².

Population: over 79,000 people.

Distance from the international airport: 30 km.

Shares boundaries with Kepez and Konyaaltı.

Döşemealtı district on the map:

Development features and housing prices

In Döşemealtı, there is a large selection of exclusive, modern villas available for sale at an optimal price.

Among the offers for sale are also apartments in Döşemealtı in modern residential complexes with diverse infrastructure — from cafes and cinemas to spas and swimming pools.

The area is characterized by high investment potential.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure of the resort area is well-developed: there are universities and schools for primary education, Döşemealtı Termessos Hospital, private medical centers, shops, etc.

There are no beaches of its own; the nearest ones are located in Konyaaltı and in the historical quarters, a 20-minute drive away.

Historical landmarks

Adjacent to Döşemealtı, atop Mount Güllük, is the ancient city of Termessos — a popular tourist destination in Antalya. Excavations are not conducted here due to the location's peculiarities. The ancient settlement is included in the UNESCO list.

An interesting natural feature near Döşemealtı is the Kocain Cave, discovered in 1919.

Advantages of the Area

1. Real estate is suitable for both leisure and permanent residence.
2. The settlement boasts a tranquil atmosphere.
3. Good balance of property price and quality.

Disadvantages of the Area

1. Far from the sea.
2. Lacks landmarks within the district.

Kemer

Kemer is a district of Antalya and a popular tourism center on the Mediterranean coast. It is a lucrative investment destination as the real estate in Kemer is ideal for both living and vacationing.

Located 40 km from Antalya in a picturesque area surrounded by mountains.

Area - 470 km².

Population - over 49,000 people.

Shares borders with Konyaaltı, Kumluca.

Kemer district on the map:

Construction Features and Housing Prices

Real estate in Kemer is relatively expensive, partly due to low-rise construction permits: most residential complexes have a maximum of 2-3 levels. Additionally, prices are rising due to the high popularity of the resort.

Infrastructure

Kemer ranks first in social status. Its diverse infrastructure fully corresponds to the population density and construction.

Among the facilities are everything needed for leisure and living:

• public transportation,
• shopping centers,
• schools, kindergartens,
• medical clinics,
• banks,
• recreational parks, and much more.

Historical Landmarks

There are not too many interesting historical landmarks in Kemer. The most famous and visited places within or near the resort are:

• ancient cities of Phaselis and Myra,
• ruins of Olympos,
• Merkez Eyup Sultan Mosque.

Beaches

The central beach of the resort is a well-equipped coastline with umbrellas, sun loungers, cafes, and other tourist facilities. The coastline is divided into zones that belong to hotels. They can be visited by everyone, but there is a fee for renting sun loungers.

Most of Kemer's beaches are covered with pebbles, with a gradual entry into the water. The only sandy beach, "Moonlight," is located near the yacht marina.

Advantages of the area

1. Great location and picturesque nature.
2. Investment-attractive residential real estate.

Disadvantages of the area

1. Pebble beaches, which are not liked by all tourists.
2. There are few historical sights within the city.

Belek

Belek is a prestigious, expensive resort and microdistrict of the Serik municipality, located on the Mediterranean coast. Here you can find many all-inclusive hotels, gorgeous beaches, 200-year-old pine and eucalyptus forests, and magnificent golf courses.

Distance to the center of Antalya is 30 km.

Population: about 73,000 people.

Belek district on the map:

Features of development and housing prices

The resort was planned and built in just a few years. Today, Belek embodies luxurious and tranquil living by the Mediterranean Sea.

The real estate market offers exclusive villas on the first coastline, modern apartments, penthouses in residential complexes.

Prices for real estate in Belek are above average, guaranteeing quality and return on investment.

Infrastructure

In addition to the tourist infrastructure, Belek has all the social infrastructure facilities for year-round living:

• municipal and private schools, the new Akif University;
• hospitals and clinics;
• markets and shops;
• cafes, cozy restaurants;
• banks and more.

Historical landmarks

The main historical landmarks of Belek are the ruins of the cities of Aspendos and Sillyon, preserved since ancient Pamphylia. They are located near the resort.

Beaches

One of the advantages of Belek is its clean, golden sand beaches. Belek is a real record holder in the number of beaches awarded the "Blue Flag" for safety, beauty, and modern amenities.

Along the coast grow centuries-old pines and eucalyptus trees, giving it a particularly picturesque view.

Advantages of the area

1. Convenient location — near Antalya and the international airport.
2. Clean air and excellent ecological environment.
3. Wide selection of quality housing.
4. Gorgeous beaches.

Disadvantages of the area

1. Not suitable for those who prefer to live in an active, urban atmosphere.
2. The price tag on apartments is quite high.

Recommendations, based on our experience

Antalya is a magnificent Mediterranean resort and a developed city in Turkey with excellent social infrastructure. Every year, thousands of foreigners come here to buy real estate and relocate. To choose the perfect place for leisure or living, it is important to match your goals with the characteristics of the districts.

Which district of Antalya is best for vacation

When choosing where to vacation in Antalya, pay attention to transportation accessibility, the level and variety of tourist and entertainment facilities, and the cost of renting housing.

Some of the most popular resort areas of Antalya are: Muratpaşa, Lara, Kundu, Konyaaltı, Belek.

Which district of Antalya is best to live in

If your goal is to choose the right district to live in Antalya, consider first and foremost: the investment attractiveness of apartments, the quality of construction and layout, important social facilities for comfortable living, and the overall atmosphere.

According to industry experts, the best ones can be considered the peaceful Lara district, the developed Konyaaltı, the promising Serik, and the young Kepez district.

Russian district in Antalya

The Russian district of Antalya is Konyaaltı, which has been actively growing since 2022. Every 4th resident of this municipality is a foreigner, and Russian-speaking citizens who have obtained a residence permit are the most numerous here.

Which districts of Antalya are not suitable for living

First, let's clarify that there are no inherently dangerous districts in Antalya. Wherever you are, you will be safe. However, there are several microdistricts where living is not desirable.

In particular, not suitable for permanent residence:

• Zeitinkaya - a cheap neighborhood where old buildings predominate and mainly poor segments of the local population live;
• Gebizli - an unattractive area where foreigners simply have nothing to do.

All the information in the article is for informational purposes only and does not have commercial purposes.

Planning to buy real estate in Turkey? Contact the licensed real estate agency Ataberk Estate. Our specialists provide comprehensive assistance in finding and purchasing housing in Turkey, accompanying you at all stages of the sale-purchase transaction.