Though Antalya is mostly known for package holidays at resorts well outside the city center, this is also an excellent cultural destination that has great weather most of the year. This is the largest city along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, and many smaller cities are similarly affordable and worthwhile.

Especially compared to Istanbul, Antalya is a great bargain. Hotels in the lovely and historic city center can be very cheap and excellent value, with nearly unlimited dining and drinking options within the same area. The cheaper hotels can actually have private rooms for less than dorm beds in hostels, so they are worth researching.

Another aspect that makes this a great value is that nearly all the attractions, including countless ruins and archeological sites are not only free, but just out in the open. Some nice beaches are close by, so Antalya is a cheap and pleasant mix of culture and sun. The Mediterranean diving in Turkey is world famous and cheap as well.