Lara or Konyaaltı: Where to Stay in Antalya
Sandy resort beach, pebbly city beach, or the historic old town
In short: choose Lara for a sandy beach and big all-inclusive resorts east of the city. Choose Konyaaltı for a long pebble beach with mountain views, close to the city, a short bus or taxi ride from the old town. Choose Kaleiçi, the old town, for history, small boutique hotels and evenings out, and take day trips to the beaches.
Last checked: 10 November 2026
At a glance
| Lara | Konyaaltı | Kaleiçi (old town) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beach | Long, sandy | Long, pebbly, mountain views | Small bays below the cliffs; beaches a short ride away |
| Where | About 12–15 km east of the centre | West of the centre, below the cliffs | The historic heart, by the harbour |
| Hotels | Large all-inclusive resorts | City and beach hotels, apartments | Boutique hotels and guesthouses in old houses |
| Best for | Families who want a resort holiday on the sand | Beach plus city; good value; short ride to town | History, atmosphere, restaurants; short stays |
Lara
Lara has a long sandy beach lined with some of Turkey’s biggest resort hotels, many of them all-inclusive with pools, water parks and kids’ clubs. It is ideal if you want everything in one place, but it feels separate from the city. See Lara Beach.
Konyaaltı
Konyaaltı beach runs west from the old town cliffs towards the Taurus Mountains. The beach is pebbly, with a long seafront park and promenade behind it. Buses and taxis reach the city centre and Kaleiçi in a few minutes. The nostalgic tram along the coast road was suspended in July 2026, so check Antalya’s public transport news before relying on it. See Konyaaltı Beach.
Kaleiçi, the old town
Narrow lanes, Ottoman houses, the old harbour and Hadrian’s Gate. Staying here means walking to restaurants and sights in the evening. Beaches are a short taxi or bus ride away. See Kaleiçi.
Many travellers suggest staying in Konyaaltı or Kaleiçi if you want to see Antalya itself, and taking a day trip to Lara for the sand; or choosing Lara if you simply want a relaxing resort week by the sea.
Getting there
Antalya Airport is east of the city, close to Lara. See Antalya airport transfers.
What real travellers say
- “Lara for the sand.” Families with small children love the sandy beach and resort facilities.
- “Konyaaltı for the views.” The mountains behind the beach are a highlight; bring water shoes for the pebbles.
- “Kaleiçi for the atmosphere.” Visitors love the old lanes and evenings by the harbour.
Summarised in our own words from travel guides and holidaymaker reviews, researched in November 2026. We don’t list prices because they change often. Sources: Wikipedia: Trams in Antalya · Urban Transport Magazine: nostalgic tram suspended · Antalya Tourist Information: public transport
Lara or Konyaaltı: questions
Is Lara or Konyaaltı better for families?
Lara, for its sandy beach and large resorts with children’s facilities. Konyaaltı suits families who also want to explore the city.
Is Konyaaltı beach sandy?
No, it is mostly pebbles. Water shoes make it more comfortable. Lara is the sandy one.
Can I stay in the old town and go to the beach?
Yes. Konyaaltı is a short bus or taxi ride from Kaleiçi, and Lara is a little further east.
Header photo: Konyaaltı beach seen from the cliffs. Photo: Esginmurat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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