September 19, 2023

The Top 6 Things to Do in Kalkan, Turkey

Welcome to Kalkan, our newest destination to The Villa Collection!

Kalkan is a picturesque coastal town nestled along the Turkish Riviera. With its breathtaking landscapes, charming narrow streets, and azure waters, Kalkan is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Whether you're a sun lover, a history enthusiast, or a foodie looking for culinary delights, Kalkan has something to offer for everyone. Here are our recommendations for the top things to do during a visit to this lovely part of the world.

1. Soak up the Sun at a Beach Club

Start your journey by relaxing in one of Kalkan's many beach clubs. Sunbathe on a secluded lounger, enjoy a cocktail on the terrace, or sample delicious Turkish food in a club’s restaurant.

One of our favourite beach clubs in Kalkan is Zest, which has not only a great restaurant and bar, but a large swimming pool, plenty of sunlounger space and several lidos with access to the azure waters for a refreshing dip. If you are a beach lover, keep in mind that the main beach is mainly pebbles but is still very popular with tourists and locals.

2. Explore Kalkan's Old Town

Wander through the cobblestone streets of Kalkan's Old Town, adorned with bougainvillaea and quaint houses. There is a seemingly endless amount of shops and eateries, all open until late in the evening to discover, from charming boutiques, art galleries and traditional shops offering handmade goods.

The Old Town is the heartbeat of Kalkan and comes alive in the height of summer in the evening. Take a stroll, enjoy a drink and indulge in some people-watching while you dine in one of the many restaurants available.

3. Discover Ancient History at Patara Ruins

History buffs will be captivated by the ancient ruins of Patara, located in Antalya near Kalkan. Explore the well-preserved Lycian ruins, including the impressive amphitheatre, Roman baths, and the famous Arch of Modestus.

Day trips to the Patara Ruins can be easily organised with local excursion companies offering private tours. Explore the ruins with an experienced guide and uncover the stories and history of the civilisations that used to live here.

4. Sail on a Gulet Cruise

A must-do for anyone who enjoys time on the water is a gulet cruise along the Kalkan coast. Experience the mesmerising beauty of the Turquoise Coast, sailing across crystal-clear waters, stopping at secluded coves and charming islands, and indulging in delicious Turkish cuisine prepared onboard.

There are numerous cruises that depart from the harbour daily and take you around some of the best sightseeing spots along the shoreline. Or, for the ultimate bespoke experience, charter your own vessel and enjoy a catered cruise at your own pace.

5. Eat, Eat and Eat Some More!

Kalkan is an absolute haven for food lovers and boasts an excellent selection of restaurants and eateries. Treat your taste buds to authentic Turkish cuisine, endless fresh seafood, and delectable mezes.

Restaurants are located around the streets of the old town and be sure to try a rooftop restaurant at sunset with their panoramic views and pretty settings. There are also numerous restaurants lining the harbour where you can sit and soak up the local atmosphere all evening.

6. Watch a Sunset at Kalkan Harbour

Many of our villas offer spectacular sunset views from the luxury of your own holiday home. However, a lovely spot in the evening is to visit Kalkan Harbour, which comes to life at night with its many bars and restaurants.

Enjoy beautiful sunsets casting a warm glow over the town's seafront whilst you indulge in a cocktail or some local seafood. The harbour is located at the base of the Old Town, so we recommend a leisurely stroll through the Old Town down to the harbour in time for a sundowner.

Summary

If you’re looking for a luxurious seaside destination in Turkey then there’s no better place to visit than Kalkan. From the picturesque beaches to the top-rated restaurants, there’s more than enough to explore on a holiday to this beautiful destination.

If you’re thinking of visiting the Turkish Riviera and Kalkan has caught your eye, our collection of luxury villas are the perfect place to stay on a trip to this part of the country. Take a look at our villas in Kalkan or get in touch with our team if you’re looking for something in particular.