PHASELIS

There is no straightforward answer to the question if Phaselis is the best beach in Antalya. After all, it all depends on what you expect. If you’re after lots of people, plenty of sun loungers, and an abundance of beach facilities, then you won’t consider Phaselis for an award for the best beach in Antalya.

If, like us, you are looking for a scenic setting combined with the visual presence of a stunning ancient site, then you may think of this place as being almost perfect. In any case, Phaselis has a lot to offer to nature-lovers and history-freaks alike. If we had to describe it in one sentence? What a place!

Phaselis is situated in a picturesque coastal location between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The combination of ancient ruins and stunning natural surroundings makes it a unique and visually captivating destination.

Aqueduct With Northern Bay In The Background

PHASELIS: THE RUINS

Phaselis dates back to Roman times when its prosperity came from shipping perfume, rose oil and wood from its three harbours. While the peninsula is small, the three strategic bays ensured that the city became the most significant port for eastern Lycia’s coast. The broad harbourway connects the protected southern harbour from Hadrians’ Gate to the central military port.

En route, expect to find the ruins of several Roman baths, Agori and the remnants of a few shops along the sideways. Halfway, wooden stairs take you up to the theatre, which is impressive, if only because of the view towards Mount Olympos behind the stage wall. In the pine forest behind the central and northern ports are the visible remains of the limestone aqueduct bringing water to Phaselis and the surroundings.

Today, Phaselis is a popular tourist destination. Visitors are drawn to the site’s historical significance, well-preserved ruins, and the opportunity to experience both the ancient city’s atmosphere and the natural beauty of the region.

Phaselis Theatre With Impressive Backdrop

THE BEST BEACH IN ANTALYA?

That all depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re after long stretches of sand and lots of beach facilities and clubs, Phaselis won’t be at the top of your list. We may be biased, but then again, we’re not beach-goers. If not the best beach in Antalya, then Phaselis is most probably one of the more intriguing ones. Where else can you swim in a naturally divine place full of history, next to historical artefacts from 309 BC? Right, probably nowhere. Still, this is precisely the case in Phaselis.

If you ask us, this is what makes Phaselis such a delightful place to visit. It is as if the ruins come to life. You are not just visiting an ancient site here; you are enjoying the peaceful setting of a national park, three perfect bays for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing, and the backdrop of the ruins and Mount Olympos.

Main Road Towards The Northern Harbor

HOW TO GET TO PHASELIS?

With its three harbours, Phaselis is a popular stop for the many boat trips and blue cruises in the area. Those who prefer to hit the road and are not self-driving can take a minibus or dolmuş from Antalya Otogar or Antalya Aquarium, and also from Kemer, Olympos, and Çıralı.  If you are driving, Phaselis is easy to reach, located along the D400 between Tekirova and Kemer. If you like to walk, Phaselis is located on the Lycian Way!

The entrance fee in 2023 is 220TL per person. Museum Pass is valid. The National Park and the site are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.. The ticket office is closed at 7:30 p.m.

Phaselis Southern Bay

Interesting Jetty At Northern Bay

POSTS NEARBY

• Visiting romantic Olympos, Çıralı, and Yanartas (16 km)
• 5 reasons to visit Rhodiapolis despite the restoration scandal (30 km)
• Limyra: an idyllic dive into an ancient basilica! (40 km)
• Wandering the streets of Antalya Old Town (42 km)
• Uncovering mosaics at Arykanda (45 km)

If you have any questions about Phaselis, feel free to ask. You can message us through our contact page or leave a comment on our Instagram or Facebook pages.

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