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Don’t Miss the Ultimate Dubai Theme Parks Experiences

Dubai is the land of numerous adventures. It is thrilling to be at a place with so many fun things to do. This is the reason why Dubai is visited by several tourists all year. It is a destination where everyone has their purpose for the visit. There are various options to enjoy your vacation with a family, group of friends or solo. You are bound to take back superb memories from this trip.

The city is renowned for its tall, towering skyscrapers that have broken many records. This affluent emirate of the UAE has many more thrilling and adventurous places other than the well-known magnificent structures. They are in form of the theme parks that attract visitors on their trips to Dubai.

Find all you need to know about great, exciting theme park visits in Dubai as you read along.

Meet the Superheroes of Entertainment at IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure- One of its kind, the IMG Worlds of Adventure is an indoor theme park in Dubai. It is unique in many ways. It is an amazing experience here that offers a blend of imagination and adventure. Spread over an area of 1.5 million square feet, it is a sprawling arena with full action-packed rides with popular superheroes.

The IMG Worlds of Adventure is divided into 5 Epic Zones. They are namely, the IMG Boulevard, Marvel, Cartoon Network, Novo Cinemas and the Lost Valley. The excitement builds up as you venture into each of these zones and take up the fast-paced rides and roller coasters. The other themed attractions here are the Cartoon Network heroes, Marvel characters and animatronic dinosaurs of the Lost Valley.

All the rides are named after the heroes theme. Some of them are Spider-Man’s Dr Oks’s revenge at Marvel zone that spins you around, Thor’s Thunder Spin, Cartoon Network’s Power Puf Girl’s Mojo Jojo ride, and the Gumball ride among others. There is more to discover in the Lost Valley with the ancient dinosaurs and close your eyes tight when you confront the spookiness of the Haunted Hotel.

At IMG Boulevard, the retail experience here is an out-of-the-world scenario. There is exciting merchandise related to these Epic zone themes. Spend a whole exciting day at the IMG Worlds of Adventure which is a complete family entertainer.

Garden Glow Dubai: A park with a difference

Just a portion of the many displays at Garden Glow in Dubai

Garden Glow Dubai- This is another must-see attraction for all family visitors. The Garden Glow Dubai is beautiful, colourful and dazzling. By the day it is a great place to see experimental art creatively done with all recycled materials. The decorations and creativity levels have touched new heights here. The eco-friendly theme is maintained throughout. After sunset, this very place dazzles with numerous hand-made LED lights in all colours that awaken a world of imagination. Garden Glow Dubai has all the exhibits radiating colourful lights that highlight the huge-sized artworks all over.

It is an amazing park to visit with kids. The fun begins as kids see the animatronic dinosaurs chase them out of the blue. It is one of the biggest dinosaur parks in the world. Here, one can gain a little more knowledge about these prehistoric creatures that roamed the Earth once upon a time.

Immerse yourself in the Atlatis Aquaventure waterpark fun

Aquaventure waterpark- When you are in Dubai, a visit to Palm Jumeriah is a must. Devote a full day in the Aqaventure waterpark at the Atlantis here. Fun and frolic are what you will experience at this place. Wholesome family entertainment here comprises 105 rides, a kids’ splash area and a private beach about a 1 km stretch. Zoom through the winding slides and crash land on the water, cross wild rapids and have fun together on a boat. Aquaventure theme park is a wonderful place to spend a day with so much to soak in.

Explore the world of Legos at Legoland Dubai

Legoland Theme Park in Dubai

Legoland- An amazing theme park in the heart of Dubai, Legoland is mesmerizing. It is a great destination for a family visit where kids aged between 2 and 12 years. Spread over 3 million square feet area, this park is an example showcasing the skill of building anything with lego bricks. There are about 40 rides of all types that kids enjoy the best. Spend a great time here exploring the 6 zones within Legoland, Adventure, Imagination, Lego City, Miniland and Kingdom.

Enjoy some water rides here with Twist N’ Spin, Wave Riders and Twin Chasers. Take a tour of the Factory to know more about how lego bricks are manufactured. Enjoy the Miniland light show and feel the child-like thrill again.

Feel the winter in a desertland at Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai- Experience the snow right in the middle of a desert! This wonderful adventure is awaiting you at Ski Dubai. This indoor entertainment facility is a crowd-puller in Dubai. Dig into the snow, play around throwing snowballs or take to skiing on the man-made turf, Ski Dubai will fulfil you with fun and joy. Take to the thrilling highs and lows as you ski around this 3000 square meters snow park. Zipline at sub-zero temperatures, and go on amazing rides on snow that add a further bout of fun and thrill.

Live the cinematic experience at Motiongate Dubai

The magical entrance of Motiongate, Dubai

Motiongate Dubai- This is all about cinema and Hollywood right here in Dubai. This is one more cinema-themed park that offers 30 rides named after Hollywood blockbusters. Motiongate has many thrills to showcase in form of rides and roller coasters. It has three zones named after famed film studios in Hollywood. They are Lionsgate, Columbia Pictures and Dreamworks. All of them have specific cinema-based rides. The Hunger Games, Shrek and Ghostbusters are some of them. Experience the ultimate thrill with the world’s fastest single-car twisting rollercoaster ride at Lionsgate.

Dubai has many more theme parks that make a family vacation memorable to the core. There is thrill and adventure of every kind awaiting a visitor here. Make the most of your vacation here.

October 6, 2022

The Top 10 Hidden Gems in the UAE

Off the Beaten Path

The United Arab Emirates should be on every traveler’s must-see list due to its tall structures, luxurious hotels, luxury retail malls, and breathtaking beachfront. Some of the best hotels and resorts in the world may be found in the UAE, which is a wonderful historical gallery. This area draws tourists in addition to these sky-touching structures with the help of its mosques, galleries, and—most considerably artificial islands.

While everyone looks forward to visiting and experiencing this “exclusive holiday location,” if you look into its parks, oceans, and deserts in more depth, you will be enchanted by its lovable nature, rich history, and distinct culture. The Burj Khalifa, the Sharjah Heritage Museum, the Fujairah Fort, and the Al Ain Oasis are just a few places where you can witness hidden gems in the UAE. This nation has a thrillingly adventurous side, but it’s also great for a holiday, a family vacation, or even a getaway with friends.

The best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi like kayaking, hiking, zip lining, and mountain biking are among the sports available in the mountains, deserts, and seas. The gulf, which is home to a diverse array of marine life, and nature reserves provide you the chance to witness some rare kinds of plants, animals, and birds, respectively.

1. Jebel Ali

An unusual hidden gem in the UAE is Jebel Ali. It is a port that is situated outside of Dubai, making it ideal for people who want to enjoy both this port and Dubai. You may cycle, drive, or even hike to the top of Jebel Hafeet, the second-highest peak in the UAE, where you can see the lush vegetation in all its splendour. This location in Al Ain gives you a view of both the Omani border and the vastness of Al Ain. You may also visit the nearby museums, forts, and tombs while you’re here, so it’s not only a panoramic view you’ll be getting from this free access location.

You can go there whenever you want because it is open all day. There are other nearby attractions, including Bollywood Parks and Legoland. In addition to them, Jebel Ali Beach is one of the most unique locations in the United Arab Emirates and offers a peaceful experience and loads of Indoor Activities in Dubai.

2. Umm al-Quwain

The nicest gardens and water parks, a lovely shoreline, and a range of museums and other cultural events can all be found in Umm al-Quwain, a small coastal town in the United Arab Emirates. One of the top destinations in the UAE for family travel, make sure to check out Dreamland Aqua Park and UAQ National Museum while you’re here.

3. Sir Bani Yas

Panoramic view of Sir Bani Yas Island

The largest uninhabited island in the United Arab Emirates is known as Sir Bani Yas. It was formerly one of the best natural reserves in Arabia and continues to be a haven for a wide range of plants and animals today. Here, you may go on safaris, animal viewing excursions, bird watching excursions, mountain biking excursions, snorkelling excursions, and kayaking excursions.

4. Kalba

Explore the waterfront at Kalba

This small town offers a serene shoreline, melodious creeks that trickle, and a wide area of mangroves. It’s one of the best hidden gems in the UAE to observe wildlife. Many bird species use the lesser-known paradise of Kalba as a nesting and migration habitat. You may readily recognise a white-collared kingfisher here, so keep an eye out for one.

5. Ajman

Ajman, which is among the best destinations to visit in the UAE at night, provides a more laid-back atmosphere than Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It’s a hidden gem compared to the larger bustling cities. After a day of sightseeing, coffee shops, shopping centres, and multicuisine restaurants provide the ideal setting for relaxing.

6. Zabeel Park

Dubai’s Zabeel Park – a quiet oasis and hidden gem in the UAE

One of the best leisure areas Dubai has to offer is Zabeel Park. It is lushly green and close to the city centre, making it accessible to those who are unsure of the roads or instructions. It is located adjacent to the Jafiliya Metro Station. Come on a hot weekend and splash around in the waters to cool off.

The park features a playground, an amphitheatre, and barbecue areas. So bring some meat to grill, let the kids play on the playground, and take in the atmosphere of the amphitheatre. While you’re here, you may also visit the Dubai Garden Glow, which is close by.

7. Abra Ride

Going to Dubai means you’ll always be searching for some shade or a cool area to hang out because it’s a place that is always hot. Get aboard the Abra Ride at Bur Dubai if you want to beat the heat. It’s a simpler method of cooling off without having to travel very far to the beaches. It’s one of our favorite hidden gems in the UAE.

8. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Explore the historical district of Al Fahadi in Dubai

You may get a feel for the ancient Dubai as you stroll through these streets. It is directly across from the metro station at Bur Dubai. Although Al Fahidi still retains its iconic 20th-century architecture, the way that life is conducted there intensifies the feeling that one has been transported to a completely different era. You’ll discover that the community is still at the centre of life here. There is no admission charge and it is always accessible, but be sure to attend when you will have time to tour the adjacent museums and stores.

9. Hatta Pools

If you’ve ever wanted to be surrounded by pristine, lush nature, come here. The Hatta Pools, which are located in Hatta, can be visited at no cost at all. You’ll need to rent a car to get here, but the trek is well worth it for what you’ll get in return, and you’ll be more off the beaten path. The gritstone outcroppings are surrounded by emerald-green water that is immaculately pristine. Learn about the vibrant, well-preserved culture. If you want to learn more about Hatta, there is a heritage village along the path. Always keep a copy of your Emirates ID and other forms of identification on hand.

10. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House

Due to the fact that it was formerly the residence of a past ruler of Dubai, this location will enable you to gain an in-depth understanding of Dubai’s history. Al Shindaga is where you may find this magnificent collection of artefacts because the house has been turned into a museum. However, unlike other museums, the remodelling hasn’t rendered the location sterile; rather, it has preserved its old-world charm. It’s more off the beaten path making it a beautiful hidden gem in the UAE.

October 6, 2022

48 Hours in Abu Dhabi: A Useful Guide for Last-Minute Trips

Travel Advice

Besides being the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi also carries a reputation for being home to world-class cultural opportunities.

Unlike its glitzier neighbour Dubai, this so-called “Manhattan of the Middle East” also offers more family-friendly attractions, including nature parks, marinas, theme parks, and beaches.

If you were to head to the city for a last-minute weekend break or stopover, you’d need to have a good idea of what you can do and which places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Even with the little time you have to plan for it, your visit can still be as memorable as any painstakingly organised trip to the UAE capital with this helpful guide for 48 hours in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi 101: Fast Facts for Travellers

To make smart choices when booking anything for your trip, it pays to know some important facts about Abu Dhabi that travellers find most helpful, such as:

When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?

Wherever you go on a trip, one thing you need to know is the best time to go where you’re headed. Abu Dhabi is no exception.

Although you cannot control this for last-minute trips, you can use the information to determine which places you can enjoy most and, thus, prioritise during your trip (i.e., indoor destinations during warm months, outdoor adventures for cooler months):

December to March: This period is the ideal time to visit the city. It is considered winter time in the UAE. However, this is also the peak period for hotels and airplane flights, which translates to higher travel rates.
April to November: Abu Dhabi weather during this period is on the warmer side, which is why it is also the time when the city is less crowded, and airfare and hotel room rates are most affordable.

How far is the airport from the top Abu Dhabi spots?

If you’re travelling from another country, it also helps to know the airport’s proximity to the best destinations in the UAE capital.

If your plane is set to land at the Abu Dhabi International Airport, below is a list of places you can visit and how long it’ll take to get there:

To Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – 16 minutes by car
To Yas Island – 14 to 20 minutes by car
To Saadiyat Beach – 29 to 33 minutes by car
To the Corniche Beach – 29 to 30 minutes by car

Take note that some of the shorter roads may have toll gates you’ll have to go through. You can also ride the public transport for most destinations, with trips going every 30 minutes.

What is Abu Dhabi known for?

Discover why Abu Dhabi is hailed as the Manhattan of the Middle East

Popular attractions in Abu Dhabi make the news quite often. In fact, some are even recognised worldwide as record-holders, including Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi (largest indoor theme park) and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster and the one with the tallest loop) in Yas Island.

Are there any hotels accommodating last-minute bookings in Abu Dhabi?

The short answer: “Yes.”

Since you’re staying for 48 hours, you’ll need to find somewhere to stay for two nights. Check last-minute hotels via travel websites and platforms to see which hotels have available rooms on the day of your trip.

Take note of the location and amenities and get as much from your hotel booking as possible. Some even offer theme park entrances built into their travel packages.

Top 4 Places to Visit in 48 Hours in Abu Dhabi

Now that you have some knowledge of Abu Dhabi, the next thing you need to decide is where you should spend your limited time there. Though there are lots of choices, you can start with the following famous spots:

1. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ride the fastest roller coaster in the world at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Did you know you can squeeze in a couple of bucket-list-worthy activities on your weekend trip to Abu Dhabi?

Head over to Yas Island and satisfy your need for speed. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a destination designed to pump up your heart rate with 20 exhilarating rides.

Here, you can ride Formula Rossa — the world’s fastest rollercoaster — and Flying Aces, the attraction with the highest roller coaster loop globally. You also have the chance to get an authentic Ferrari experience, complete with acrobatic shows and genuine Italian cuisines.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is usually open every day, though this is subject to change. Check their official website before you go to get up-to-date information.

2. The Corniche

Relax on the beach and take in the Abu Dhabi skyline while visiting The Corniche

One of the most popular layover destinations if you only have 48 hours in Abu Dhabi, the Corniche is the perfect place to spend a relaxing weekend.

Tourists flock to this part of the city to witness the gorgeous Abu Dhabi skyline and relax on the beach. This spot is also ideal for families traveling with kids and is best enjoyed in the afternoon, just before sunset.

Food-wise, Corniche Street has a couple of top-rated restaurants to choose from, including Quest and Li Beirut that offer Asian and Lebanese cuisine, respectively.

3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Visit the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates while spending 48 hours in Abu Dhabi

Your trip to Abu Dhabi won’t be complete without a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Hailed as the largest mosque in the UAE, the mosque offers state-of-the-art architecture made with marble and accentuated with gold and other precious gems. The place reflects the country’s Islamic culture and the wealth of minerals the nation is known for.

Visit times are set between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. from Saturday to Thursday. You’ll have to head there a bit later on Fridays (4:30 to 11 p.m.), as mornings are set aside for worshippers.

But before you go, make sure you choose your attire according to the mosque’s dress code. If you’re not sure what to wear, you can check the Mosque Manners on the Grand Mosque’s official website.

4. Qasr Al Hosn

The free historical exhibition at Qasr Al Hosn explains how Abu Dhabi came to be

Seen as the symbolic birthplace of the city, the Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi.

It is the first permanent structure ever built in the UAE capital and holds the story of how Abu Dhabi and its people came to be. The free historical exhibition will show you the most significant monuments of the city and some intriguing testimonies about Abu Dhabi’s traditions, culture, and history.

Though the exhibit is permanent, you might want to consider timing your visit during the Qasr Al Hosn Festival. If your trip happens to be in February, expect to be part of the annual festival and partake in a range of fun cultural activities and enchanting performances you will never forget.

48 Hours in Abu Dhabi – Full of Wonder at the Last Minute

A last-minute trip to Abu Dhabi can be as enchanting as visits planned ahead of time. Even with just 48 hours in Abu Dhabi, this guide can help you optimise the experience so you can have a wonderful time in the UAE capital.

June 17, 2022

3 Most Popular Cultural Destinations in Abu Dhabi

Travel Advice

People travel for many different reasons. Some consider it a chance to relax, while many think it’s a good means to “escape” their busy lives. Others visit foreign places for self-discovery or to cultivate interpersonal relationships.

Statistics show that many people choose Abu Dhabi as a travel destination, regardless of the goals they set out for their trips. In 2019 alone, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital welcomed roughly 11.35 million visitors – a 10.5% increase from the previous year.

If you’re planning an excursion to Abu Dhabi to enrich your life, consider these top three most popular destinations in Abu Dhabi.

1. Qasr Al Watan

The stunning and extravagant Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi

Opened to the public in March 2019, Qasr Al Watan is the official presidential palace of the United Arab Emirates. While still serving its official purpose, the palace now welcomes hundreds of visitors to its 380,000-acre grounds almost every day and is one of the best cultural destinations in Abu Dhabi.

The Palace of the Nation’s magnificent architecture is one of the primary reasons people go there. However, the place is more than just a tourist spot. The building also serves as the venue for the Council of Ministers and Federal Supreme Council meetings, and several other historic conventions with foreign leaders.

What to See

An Abu Dhabi palace booking grants you access to some of Qasr Al Watan’s most culturally enriching areas, such as:

The Great Hall: This 10,000-square-meter (107,639 square-foot) space made of marble and gold is one of the best spots in the palace. The details in its design, enhanced by complex geometric textures, made The Great Hall a breathtaking scene every visitor would want to enjoy.
Presidential Gifts: This showcases the diplomatic gifts the UAE received in the past decades. Besides the aesthetic value of the displays, the exhibition also offers insight into the process and cultural considerations in diplomatic gift selection.
House of Knowledge: Located in the east wing of the presidential palace, this area holds some of the nation’s rarest artifacts, manuscripts, and books, including religious texts from the Bible and the Quran. This is also where you’ll find a collection of the ancient geographic maps of the Arabic region.
Qasr Al Watan Library: Home to more than 50,000 books documenting the culture and history of the country, the Qasr Al Watan Library’s goal is to share and preserve centuries-worth of Arabian knowledge. Because of this, it is considered one of the most important libraries in the UAE.

Besides what’s inside the palace, you can also get the chance to witness the Palace in Motion. This captivating nighttime show lights up the place for 15 minutes in the evening, from Thursday to Saturday.

How to Get To Qasr Al Watan

Qasr Al Watan is located in Ras al Akhdar, commonly referred to as the West Corniche.

From the main Corniche, walk to the end of the beach road. Pass the Founders Memorial, with the Emirates Palace and Etihad Towers on your right and left, respectively.

As you reach the end of the road, you’ll see a grand entrance reserved only for VIPs. Go to the smaller door on the right side of the gate where you’ll be directed to visitor parking. Present your tickets and ride a shuttle to the palace grounds.

You can visit Qasr Al Watan between 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily but always check for announcements on the schedule because the place is closed when used for official business.

2. The Corniche

Walk along the Corniche and take in the skyline of Abu Dhabi

Considered one of the most popular destinations in Abu Dhabi, The Corniche is a road extending across eight kilometers of a carefully manicured waterfront.

Running along the northwestern coast of the UAE capital, it has various areas designated for different activities, including:

Cycle and pedestrian pathways
Children’s play areas
Restaurants and cafés
The Corniche Beach

The Corniche is an ideal destination for families and becomes quite busy during the winter months.

What to See

The Corniche is accessible to guests all day long. However, the beach is only open from 6 a.m. until sunset.

If you decide to visit the two-kilometer beach, choose the perfect spot for you among the three sections it’s divided into:

Gate 4: This free-entry area is most popular among individuals and larger groups.
Gate 2: Fenced and equipped with a quiet zone, this area is the best spot for families and children. You’ll also find changing rooms and showers here, along with cabanas, sun loungers, and umbrellas for rent.
Gate 3: Like Gate 2, this part of the beach is shielded from view and has access to the beach amenities mentioned earlier. It is an excellent choice for children and families and has an on-duty lifeguard until sundown.

How to get to The Corniche

You can get to The Corniche from anywhere in Abu Dhabi, but Al Bateen, Al Khalidiya, and Al Zahiyah (the tourist club area) are the nearest places to it.

On a car, input F8FR+93 Abu Dhabi on your virtual map or navigation system to get directions. You can also take a bus on the following routes:

3. The Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi with it’s unique architecture

The Louvre Abu Dhabi exhibits a whopping 600 artworks within its light-filled modern architecture – a true haven for art enthusiasts. The first Louvre outside France, the structure itself is designed to work in perfect harmony with the desert surroundings, making it a popular destination for Abu Dhabi travelers with an eye for beauty.

What to See

Situated in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, the Louvre leaves onlookers in awe with just a glance, thanks to its unique architecture and placement.

Designed as a “museum city” by the sea, Louvre Abu Dhabi was inspired by low-lying Arab settlements and the Medina and is made more special with a modern touch.

Besides the structure itself, you’ll also find various exhibitions and galleries that can make your tour of Abu Dhabi more enriching. These are carefully curated and placed in three wings in the Louvre:

Wing 1: Composed of three galleries, this wing houses artwork and artifacts from early human civilizations. It is also home to some masterpieces from ancient empires in Arabia, China, and Africa.
Wing 2: This is where you’ll find pieces from universal religions worldwide. This wing also features various masterpieces reflecting Asian trade routes used throughout history.
Wing 3: Unlike the first two wings with three galleries, this area has four, each showcasing inspiring pieces from various periods, including the ancient Chinese, Napoleon, and Columbus eras. It also has several items from famous trade routes people used globally.

How to Get To The Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is open between 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. from Tuesday through Sunday. You can reach the museum through the following:

By car: From Dubai, take the Yas Island/ Saadiyat Island exit to Sheikh Khalifa Highway E12. Drive along Yas Highway until you reach the Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, following road signs to Louvre Abu Dhabi.
By bus: Take the public bus bound for route 94.

Explore More Destinations in Abu Dhabi

There’s a lot of things to do in Abu Dhabi. Besides the cultural destinations mentioned here, you can also try indoor wall climbing and other adventurous activities that offer enrichment beyond a temporary escape from a busy life. Explore more and have the best vacation today in the UAE capital.

May 22, 2022

Hiking in Turkey: The Best Hikes in Antalya

Off the Beaten Path

While hiking in Antalya, Turkey, you’ll experience spectacular landscape views of beaches, mountains, canyons, lakes, and national parks. The Antalya province is home to the Tarsus Mountain range and the Mediterranean coast, making it a hiking lover’s dream.

No matter which of these hikes in Turkey you choose, you’ll have dramatic mountain views and the sparkling blue water of the Mediterranean at every turn. We created the guide to hiking in Antalya to share the best hiking locations on the Mediterranean coast in Turkey.

The best time to hike in Antalya is March to May or September to November when the weather is mild. You will find the summer months in the Mediterranean region are hot and humid with the winter months bringing the rainy season. For optimal conditions, Spring and Fall are the best times to enjoy hiking in Turkey.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Turkey, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has an extensive list of the best hiking trails, with reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

Next, we’ll look at some of the most popular hikes in Antalya.

Lycian Way

Breathtaking views on the Lycian Way

The Lycian Way is one of Turkey’s most popular long-distance hikes through the mountains in Turkey just inland of the Mediterranean coast. It’s a 540-kilometer cultural trail from Antalya to Fethiye and can take around 30 days to complete in its entirety.

Typically, hikers will start in Fethiye, but you can start the hike from whichever place you want to. The route connects Lycian ruins, coastal beach towns, nomadic footpaths, and ancient Roman roads. From Antalya, the trail starts in the mountains at Geyikbayiri.

In addition, the trail has 17 segments that you can hike individually. You’ll find some of the best partial hiking routes of the Lycian Way around the beach towns of Patara, Kalkan, or Kas. Hiking the Lycian Way promises breathtaking views and great adventures along the way.

Termessos

One of the best hikes in Antalya is up to the ancient city of Termessos at the top of Mount Solymos. Access the trail at the Gulluk Dagi National Park, about 30km from the Antalya city center. Drive up to the trailhead to park, then you can take off up the path to the top.

The trail is steep and rocky and takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get to the 1,000-meter mountain top view. You’ll have views of the Taurus Mountain range and get to explore the archeological site with an impressive great theater that boasts views of the sea and mountains. There are trails all through the ancient site and along the mountain. Plan on 4 to 5 hours to hike and explore the site. Be sure to take water and snacks with you.

Tazi Canyon

Tazi Canyon, also called Eagle Canyon, is a hike in Antalya in Koprulugu Canyon National Park that you do not want to miss. The hiking path is difficult in some places, being rocky with some larger boulders to climb over.

Along the 11km hike, you’ll see plenty of wildlife and many different species of plants. You’ll have breathtaking views from the top of the canyon with the cliffs dropping a steep 400 meters. Be sure to bring water, snacks, and your camera.

Goynuk Canyon

Hiking in Antalya isn’t complete until you’ve visited Goynuk Canyon where you can enjoy hiking or canyoning. The trail is 3km long with the highest point being 1km into the hike. It’s a beautiful hike surrounded by pine trees and the sound of the river. There is a lake at the end of the trail where you can take a break and enjoy the ice-cold water, especially on a hot day. This is an easy hike for beginners with stunning views of the mountains, canyon, and river.

St. Paul Trail

The St. Paul Trail is thought to be one of the oldest paths for hiking in Antalya, stretching over 500 km taking approximately 27 days to hike. The trail is made up of old Roman roads and forest trails.

The hike starts in the Perge and follows the footsteps of the Apostle Paul to the ancient city of Antioch. The trail is marked along the way with options for village houses or pensions to stay in. Subsequently, on longer stretches of the hike, you will have to camp.

Kas to Limanagzi Bay

This is about a 2-hour hike of the Lycian Way that takes you to Limangazi Beach which can only be reached by hiking or a water taxi from Kas Harbor. As you’re hiking on the trail, you’ll come up to a split in the trail leading to the beach.

If you take the cliff route, it’s steep and would not be safe if you’re carrying a heavy pack or if you had rough weather. The views from the cliff path are fantastic and well worth the winding path along the cliffs. Alternately, if you take the inland path, you’ll pass by ancient ruins along the way to the beach.

Most importantly, bring your swimsuit to swim in the sea once you arrive. There are local cafes on-site where you can enjoy breakfast or lunch before heading back. If you do not want to hike back, you can catch a ride back to Kas on a shuttle boat.

Mt. Tahtahli (Olympos)

Snow-capped Mt. Tahtahli in the distance

Mt. Tahtalhli is the steepest trek in Antalya along the Mediterranean coast. Start the hike from Kemer and head straight up the mountain to the 2,365-meter summit. The hike is challenging and takes a little over 7 hours to complete, so start early and bring plenty of food and water.

From the top of Mt. Tahtali, enjoy awe-inspiring views of the Antalya mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Afterward, you can hike down the mountain or take a 10-minute ride down to the mountain base in a cable car.

Saklikent Gorge

Saklikent Gorge near Antalya

Saklikent Gorge is an hour from Fehtiye in Saklikent National Park in the mountains of Turkey. The gorge is in the Tarsus Mountains and is considered the 3^rd largest canyon in Europe, stretching 18km and 300m deep.

The path is narrow and follows along the river. At times there will be times that you will walk through the water on your hike, so wear footwear that can be submerged in water along the way. If you want to take the high road, there are boardwalk routes available to stay above the water.

The best views are past the first river crossing. Sometimes that path is wide, sometimes so narrow you must climb over boulders to pass through. While hiking you’ll see the natural beauty of the canyon as it climbs up to 720 meters tall, icy cold mountain water, waterfalls and pine trees that cover the mountain range above. This is a great hike during the summer when it is hot outside. You can enjoy the cooler air in the canyon and take a dip in the water.

Eternal Flame of Chimaira

In the village of Cirali, you’ll find a well-known trail for hiking in Antalya, the eternal flames of Mt. Chimaira. There are several places where flames burn straight from the rocks up on the hill.

The hike starts at the ruins of Yanartas at the bottom of the mountain. You can drive back to the entrance or walk from the beach. You will pay a minimal entrance fee to hike up to the flames. The 2 km trek has a nice dirt path but is steep in places with places to stop and rest as needed.

You’ll have great views of Cirali beach and the Mediterranean Sea as you make your way up the trail. You’ll need about 2-3 hours to hike in to explore and then back down to the entrance.

Sapadere Canyon

Sapadere Canyon Waterfall

The Sapadere Canyon hiking trail is in the mountains of Turkey with rewarding mountain views, waterfalls, and natural pools at the end of the trail. It’s an easy 30-minute hike to reach the village of Sapadere, where you’ll see plenty of wildlife, local plants, mountains and the river.

When you reach the end of the trail, you can jump into the ice-cold water of the waterfall pools to cool off. There are several cafes where you can enjoy tea or have a simple lunch.

Final Thoughts on Hiking in Antalya

Ultimately, you cannot go wrong hiking in Antalya with the picturesque views of the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy hiking through canyons, Antalya mountains and the coastal trails to experience the culture, history and beauty of Turkey.

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March 24, 2022