Belek / Bogazkent are two towns in Turkey, located close to the country’s flagship Antalya – the ultimate spot for a perfect vacation on the Mediterranean coast. And since both towns are basically connected, I decided to create this “to do” list that will cover both.
So no matter if you’re looking about the best things to do in Belek this year or the best things to do in Bogazkent (or both), this article will tell you everything you need to know!
The funny thing is that basically there is not much to do in Belek or Bogazkent – the actual towns – except from visiting the local mosque, the supermarkets and the weekly Bazaar that happens every Wednesday (and includes all Genuine Fake goods you can think of).
However, since both Belek and Bogazkent are so close to the amazing Antalya (40 minutes by car/taxi), that’s where the real fun will be and the bulk of your attractions. We found this by ourselves during our stay in the amazing Alva Donna hotel – my sure to check its review as you might fall in love with it and make it your next destination.
So here are the things to do during your holiday, except for enjoying the resort you’re spending most of your time at (which, in most cases, will be just enough for a perfect, relaxing holiday):
1. Duden Waterfalls
Situated in a park near the city center of Antalya, the Duden Waterfalls are absolutely amazing: the sound of the water is extremely relaxing and the views are beautiful.
Locals choose this amazing area for picnics and the air here is absolutely amazing. A must visit when you are in Belek / Bogazkent.
2. Kursunlu Waterfalls
Another waterfall, this time a bit off the city center but situated in an even bigger national park.
Serene and wonderful, the Kursunlu Waterfalls (Kurşunlu Şelalesi) will amaze you with the amazing wild life (not life threatening!) and views. Make sure to have your camera with you or your phone charged, as you’ll get a ton of Instagram-worthy spots for taking pictures.
3. MiniCity Antalya
A small park in Antalya filled with miniature buildings, replicas of the most famous buildings in Turkey. A great place to visit in order to see some attractions at a smaller scale – it’s like visiting the top spots in the country without having to travel there.
4. Aspendos
If you’re fond of history and you’d like to see how the Greeks and Romans lived in ancient times, then Aspendos is the place to visit.
A very well preserved amphitheater and many other attractions await for you there. There are also snakes and lizards, so make sure to wear real shoes and if possible long trousers!
5. Manavgat Boat Trip
You can spend one entire day on a boat running down the Manavgat river and watch the great Manavgat waterfall. You’ll eat barbeque on the beach and get tanned on the top of the boat – a relaxing day that you’ll spend lying in the sun.
6. Perge
Another ancient city that can be taken as a tour from local operators together with Aspendos and the Kursunlu Waterfalls. Again, well preserved ruins await you here together with bits of history.
7. Troy Aqua Park
Basically, the only attraction and must visit that’s actually in Belek! It’s a huge aquapark that is yours to visit for free if you stay at the Rixos Premium Hotel in Belek.
If not, for an entrance fee, you will be able to experience the 12m high kamikaze sliders (among many other attractions), as well as visit the Dolphinarium.
8. Antalya’s City Center
Since most of these attractions are actually in Antalya, don’t miss the opportunity to actually visit the city’s city center and enjoy a truly unique Turkish experience there.
Antalya is the heart of the region and the most important city in the area and you can reach it by bus from Belek or Bogazkent. Once there, explore the city center, the old town and eat in one of the many restaurants there.
If you have time for some marine life and additional exploration, make sure to also visit the Aquarium which has the longest tunnel in Europe: it’ll be like walking under water, watching all that spectacular marine life on display.
So as you can see, there are quite a few things you can and should do if you decide to spend your holiday in Turkey, in the Belek / Bogazkent region. And if you do, don’t forget to come back and share your experience with our readers!
Also, if you want to be in Antalya itself, I have written a guide about the best hotels for families in Lara – Antalya’s luxury part with some of the most amazing hotels in the region.
