If you are spending any time in Antalya make sure to check out Old Town Antalya and Mermerli Beach. Old Town Antalya is also known by its Turkish name Kaleiçi which means “within the castle”. The narrow cobbled streets, boutique shops, cafes and restaurants, sea views and old town charm is the main reason why most people visit old town Antalya. However, don’t forget to spend time on Mermerli beach during your time in Kaleici Antalya. Prepare to be amazed by the clear blue sea, castle walls background and mountain views.
Where is Mermerli Beach?
Mermerli Beach or Mermerli plaji is in the centre of the old town Antalya. It is around the coast from Kaleici marina or Kaleici harbour, lined by the ancient castle walls. Mermerli beach is only accessed through restaurant Mermerli in the old town. The restaurant entrance is below the park in the left hand corner of the square. Look out for the sign ‘Plaji’ which means beach.
There are plenty of car parks outside the castle walls in Kaleici if you are driving in for the day. Alternatively, there is a tram that stops along Ataturk Boulevard and you can walk through Antalya old town to reach Mermerli Beach. A taxi might be able to drop you in closer to the beach entrance.
What is the Price for Mermerli Beach?
Yes! You will need to pay an entrance fee of around 40lira (4Euro) and you can stay on the sunbed for the day. As you walk into restaurant Mermerli there will be someone at the desk. You can pay by cash or card, in Turkish Lira or Euros. A ticket will be given to you which you pass to the beach attendant at the bottom of the steps.
What are the Mermerli Beach opening hours?
During the summer months Mermerli Beach is open from 8:00am until 8:00pm. Remember that Mermerli plaji is a small beach, given that, if you want a good spot make sure to get there early.
Does the beach get crowded?
The space on Mermerli beach is limited. It is a small rocky area lined with sunbeds. For that reason, yes it does get crowded. The sunbeds are also really really close together. If you are not comfortable lying close to a stranger then get there early to choose some sunbeds that are away from others.
Where can I stay in Antalya Old Town?
If you are wanting to spend a few nights in Kaleici or Antalya Old Town (if you have time, do!) when in Antalya we can recommend these hotels.
Luxury Hotel in Antalya Old Town
RuinAdalia Hotel is an adult only hotel with a pool only 400m from Mermerli Beach.
Nill’s Suite is a 1 bedroom luxury villa in Kaleici old town.
Mid Range Hotel in Antalya Old Town
The Suite Apart Hotel is in a great location in Kaleici city walls with a pool
Puding Hotel also a great location in Antalya old town with a swimming pool
Budget Hotel in Antalya Old Town
Saye Konak Hotel – we stayed here in a quadruple room. A gorgeous boutique hotel in a great location. No pool but we hit the beach instead!
Hadrianus Hotel a converted house close to Hadrian’s Gate offers budget friendly rooms with air conditioning and a gorgeous garden. Great location!
Overall, is Mermerli Beach worth going to?
If you are staying in Kaleici for some time then 100% yes. As I’m sure you are aware, summers in Turkey get hot! Time at the beach is always the best way to cool down, especially if your hotel doesn’t have a pool.
If you are not staying in Kaleici it is probably not a beach that is worth travelling in for, unless combined with time wandering the old town. Antalya coastline is full of stunningly, beautiful beaches where you can have more space.
In conclusion, if you are staying in Antalya old town for a few days like we did then definitely walk over to the beach and spend some time cooling off in the wonderfully clear sea.
What else is there to do in Antalya Old Town?
First off, wander the streets. See where it takes you. Stop for a coffee or a beer, peruse the local shops, stop and pet the cats, chat to the locals and admire the buildings.
Check out Hadrian’s Gate, views over the Harbour, walk through Karaalioglu Park, viewing platform in Kecili Park.
If you are looking for other travel inspiration check out our Destinations Page where you will find lots of information about some of countries we have visited. From Albania to Thailand, Kefalonia to Corfu and Dubai to Oman.
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