Where to stay in Antalya: Kaleiçi, Lara, Konyaaltı, Belek or Kemer?
Antalya is a big city with very different areas. Choose the area first, then the hotel.
By the IONETO Antalya team · Published 8 November 2026
In short: stay in Kaleiçi for the old town and evenings on foot, Konyaaltı for the city beach and easy public transport, Lara or Belek for large resorts close to the airport, and Kemer for bays and mountains. Couples and first-timers usually love Kaleiçi; families often choose Lara, Belek or Konyaaltı.
The areas compared
| Area | Best for · watch out for |
|---|---|
| Kaleiçi | Old town, restaurants on foot · small rooms, stairs, limited car access |
| Konyaaltı | City beach, promenade, tram · pebble beach |
| Lara | Sandy beaches, resorts, near the airport · far from the old town |
| Belek | Large resorts, golf, families · you will need transport to explore |
| Kemer | Bays, mountains, boat trips · 45 km from the airport |
| Kaş / Olympos | Villas, nature, quiet · far from the city |
Kaleiçi: the old town
Kaleiçi's restored houses are now boutique hotels with courtyards, and Hadrian's Gate, the harbour and the restaurants are all a short walk away. Rooms can be small and some lanes are closed to cars, so ask about parking and luggage. See our Kaleiçi walking guide.
Konyaaltı: beach life in the city
Konyaaltı suits long stays and families who want a beach and city life together: a long pebble beach, a promenade, playgrounds, the aquarium and the tram. Compare it with the east side in Konyaaltı or Lara.
Lara and Belek: resorts
Lara has sandy beaches and big hotels about 15 km from the airport; Belek, about 35 km away, is known for resorts and golf. Both are easy for families, but you will need transport to explore the city.
Kemer and the west
Kemer sits where the Taurus Mountains meet the sea, close to boat trips, Phaselis and the Tahtalı cable car. Further west, Olympos and Kaş offer villas and nature stays far from the city.
Budget options
Guesthouses and small hotels in Konyaaltı and the centre are the best value. Ask whether breakfast and air conditioning are included and how far the beach is.
How to book
Compare villas, boutique hotels and guesthouses on Antalya hotels & villas and send a request with your dates and group size; the host replies directly. For getting there, see Antalya Airport to the city and resorts.
Quick answers
What is the best area to stay in Antalya for the first time?
Kaleiçi for the old town atmosphere, or Konyaaltı for a beach and easy transport.
Where should families stay in Antalya?
Lara, Belek or Konyaaltı, depending on whether you want a resort or city life.
Is Lara or Konyaaltı better?
Lara has sandy beaches and resorts; Konyaaltı has a pebble beach, a promenade and the tram.
Which area is closest to the airport?
Lara, about 15 km away.
Sources
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