Kalkan is a small Mediterranean town in the province of Antalya in Turkey. Situated in a tranquil setting on the Mediterranean Sea, Kalkan is a quiet and beautiful destination that offers a wide variety of attractions to explore. From its ancient ruins to its expansive beaches and its bustling nightlife, Kalkan’s attractions provide something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular attractions in Kalkan.
Attractions in Kalkan: A Guide to the Mediterranean Gem
Historic Sites and Ruins
As an ancient town with a rich history, Kalkan has some truly remarkable historical sites and ruins to explore. The most popular of these sites includes the ruins of the ancient Lycian cities and settlements such as Tlos and Sarıgerme. Other sites worth seeing are the Lycian Tombs, which are carved into the sides of the nearby hills, as well as the Roman aqueducts and the remains of a Hellenistic theatre.
The Kalkan Castle is another popular attraction for history buffs. Completed in the 16th century, the castle overlooks the bay from a hilltop and you can wander around to explore the many fortifications, towers and walls that protect this historic fortress.
Beaches and Water Activities
Kalkan has some excellent beaches, perfect for relaxing days of soaking up the sun. Kalkan’s main beach, located in the centre of town, is a sheltered spot with clean, clear waters and a sandy shore. The beach also offers a variety of watersports such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Patara Beach is another great spot, located 12 kilometres outside of town. This beach is one of the most beautiful and popular, with a large expanse of sand, clear waters, and plenty of sunbeds and parasols. Windsurfing and sailing are popular here and a wooden trail takes visitors to a nearby Duck Rock, a great spot for a dip.
Away from the beach, visitors can take boat tours out to sea for a chance to explore the area’s caves and coves. Kalkan also has a range of boat trips up the nearby Xanthos River, where visitors can enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the region.
Nightlife, Restaurants and Shopping
Kalkan is known as one of the best venues for nightlife in all of Turkey. Popular spots include Azur, with its amazing view of the harbour, or Suzanna’s, with its casual atmosphere, beachside bar and great house music. Kalkan also has some vibrant bars and clubs such as Papa’s Bar and Café, which is the town’s go-to spot for football and other sports.
When it comes to dining, the selection in Kalkan is equally impressive. From traditional Turkish dishes and seafood specialities to international favourites, there is something for every taste. Popular restaurants in Kalkan include Gulce, which serves delicious Turkish classics, Korsan, which has great views of the harbour, and Sakalli, a perfect spot for traditional Turkish mezze platters.
Kalkan also offers plenty of shopping for the bargain hunters, with a wide range of street bazaars and shops selling souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.
Kalkan is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. From its historical sites, beaches and watersports to its lively nightlife, restaurants and shopping, Kalkan is the perfect spot to explore and enjoy all the Mediterranean has to offer.