BENEATH A STARRY SKY, a group of nighttime golfers concentrate on the white dimpled ball as the course glows like a stadium, set amid the dreamy Turkish Riviera.
Renowned for lavish resorts and service that exceeds five-star expectations, this coastal region offers many pleasures beyond spa pampering. One of the most popular activities is night golf, an experience locals recommend to visitors and even non-golfers alike.
“Everyone ought to try it at least once,” says a Turkish insider who encourages novices — and skeptics — to give it a swing.
Beginners and seasoned players will find many championship greens to explore. Head to Belek, a coastal area famed for Turkey’s top golf courses. The PGA Sultan course in Antalya hosted elite players such as Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose during the 2012 Turkish Airlines World Golf Final. Other notable resorts include Antalya Golf Club, Turkey’s first 36-hole golf facility with two five-star hotels, and Carya Golf Course, Europe’s first golf course equipped for night play.
With shifting coastal winds, undulating sand ridges framed by native pine and fragrant eucalyptus, it’s easy to see why golf thrives under the warm Turkish nights. Picture taking your shot as the sun slips below the horizon and the floodlights come alive.
Antalya, long considered Turkey’s tourism capital, remains a top holiday destination. Bordered by the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, this vibrant city on Anatolia’s southwest coast is Turkey’s largest Mediterranean port city and a major international resort, home to more than a million residents.
The region bears a storied past. Ancient rulers and empires left their mark here — from Attalos II, founder of Pergamon, to Roman emperors like Hadrian, and later Seljuk and Ottoman rulers — all drawn to the area’s favorable climate and strategic location.
Today, visitors enjoy a blend of ancient sites and modern comforts along with outdoor adventure and relaxed downtime.
Kaleici Old Town © THE MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND TOURISM OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY
For history and antiquities, start in the old city center. Kaleici, the historic citadel, remains a top attraction with its narrow streets, 80 towers and access to the old port. The Antalya Museum showcases the region’s past with a rare collection of artifacts, imperial statues, marble portraits and relics from Seljuk and Ottoman periods. Notable landmarks include the 13th-century Yivli Minaret and Hadrian’s Gate, an ornate marble arch built in honor of the Roman emperor Hadrian.
Outside the city, the Aspendos amphitheater draws photographers and architecture enthusiasts. Built with durable materials by Roman architect Zeno, the 2,000-year-old structure still stages performances — notably the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival each summer.
Back in Kaleici, winding alleys lead to a lively shopping scene. Souvenir shops and artisan stalls offer handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, leather goods and carpets. Haggling and friendly bargaining are part of the experience, and vendors frequently speak English to welcome international visitors.
After a day of exploring ruins and museums, a traditional hammam can be a welcome respite. The region’s resorts feature extensive spa facilities, and local baths like Demirhan Bath provide an authentic Turkish bathing experience with separate his-and-hers sections.
Düden Waterfall © THE MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND TOURISM OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY
Antalya’s natural attractions are not to be missed. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the city and Mediterranean from Kepez Üstü, while hikers explore Karain Cave, a site linked to early human habitation. Nature trails lead to the dramatic Düden waterfalls — a scenic cascade with historical associations — and the Kurşunlu waterfalls, a lush area popular with eco-tourists who appreciate the region’s rich flora.
As evening falls, dining at Kaleici Marina provides another memorable experience. Fresh seafood, including calamari and sea bass, arrives at outdoor tables to the sound of live Turkish music. Between ancient monuments, coastal hikes and indulgent spas, night golf remains one of the most unforgettable ways to enjoy Antalya’s warm nights and stunning landscapes.
Antalya truly is the capital of Turkish tourism, offering history, nature, luxury and distinctive local culture in one unforgettable destination.
Antalya Info to Go
Turkish Airlines operates non-stop flights from major U.S. airports to Antalya Airport. U.S. citizens require a tourist visa to enter Turkey. Antalya’s compact center is easy to explore on foot; taxis and shared taxis (dolmuş) provide convenient local transport, and rental cars are widely available for excursions into the surrounding countryside.
Where to Stay in Antalya
LA BOUTIQUE HOTEL Set on cliffs with sweeping sea and mountain views, this adults-only property sits within a short walk of the beach. 1537 Sokak 16, Eski Lara Yolu
DELPHIN BE GRAND RESORT A large luxury resort featuring an extensive entertainment program, a sizable water park and a broad spa and dining offering. Güzeloba Mahallesi, Lara Turizm Yolu
REGNUM CARYA GOLF & SPA RESORT An all-inclusive luxury resort overlooking the Mediterranean, home to Turkey’s first nighttime golf course and a range of upscale amenities. Kadriye Bölgesi, Üçkum Tepesi Mevkii, Belek
Restaurants in Antalya
7 MEHMET A local favorite serving classic Turkish meze and kebabs, with a terrace offering striking city and bay views. Meltem Mahallesi, Ataturk Park
CLUB ARMA RESTAURANT ANTALYA Located in a renovated historic building with marina views, this restaurant offers seafood and international cuisine in an elegant setting. Iskele Caddesi 75, Kaleici Yat Limani
NEJAT BALIK A cozy terraced seafood restaurant known for fresh calamari, live music and pleasant sea views. Manavoğlu Park 28, Eski Lara Yolu