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Where to stay in Antalya: a guide to Lara, Belek, Kemer, Side and Alanya
Antalya's resort areas compared by distance from the airport, transfer time, beaches, atmosphere and who they suit: Lara, Kaleiçi, Belek, Kemer, Side and Alanya.
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Short answer: which Antalya area suits you?
Antalya is less a single city than a 150-kilometre coastline of resort areas, each with its own character. The right choice depends on what you want from your holiday — and how far from the airport you are happy to go.
Short answer: for a short stay close to the airport, Lara; for history and boutique hotels, Kaleiçi; for golf and all-inclusive resorts, Belek; for mountains and pine forests, Kemer; for ancient ruins and long beaches, Side; for a lively seaside town, Alanya.
The areas at a glance
| Area | From airport | Transfer | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lara | ~13 km | 15–25 min | Short breaks, late arrivals, families |
| Kaleiçi | ~14 km | 20–30 min | History, restaurants, couples |
| Belek | ~33 km | 30–45 min | Golfers, families, all-inclusive |
| Kemer | ~55 km | 50–70 min | Nature, quiet, boat trips |
| Side | ~66 km | 55–75 min | History and beach together |
| Alanya | ~125 km | 100–140 min | Lively town, longer stays |
Lara and Kaleiçi: close to the city
Lara and neighbouring Kundu are the largest hotel areas near the airport. After a midnight landing or on a three- or four-day break, that proximity is a real advantage: you can be at your hotel half an hour after touchdown.
Kaleiçi is Antalya's historic heart. With its Roman-era harbour, narrow stone lanes and boutique hotels in restored mansions, it suits couples who want city discovery more than a beach holiday. Some hotels cannot be reached by car to the door because of the narrow lanes; your chauffeur drops you as close as possible.
Belek and Kemer: resort classics
Belek is known for large resorts and golf courses and is one of Antalya's most popular areas for families and golfers. Travelling with golf bags? Our Belek golf transfer guide helps you choose the right vehicle.
Kemer, reached by a coastal road between the Taurus mountains and the sea, is greener and quieter. Pine-fringed bays and boat trips draw those looking for a holiday away from the crowds.
Side and Alanya: further, with more character
Side puts history right on the beach, with its ancient theatre and the seaside Temple of Apollo; walking past the temple columns at sunset is one of the region's most memorable moments.
Alanya, with its castle, long beaches and busy bazaar, is a city in its own right. As the longest route, your choice of transfer makes the biggest difference here.
Before you decide
Knowing your terminal helps too: our Antalya Airport terminals guide explains it. Once you have picked your area, see your price instantly on Antalya Airport transfers.
Your ride is one tap away.
Frequently asked questions
Which hotel area is closest to Antalya Airport?
Lara and Kundu, about 13 km and 15–25 minutes from the airport.
How long is the transfer to Alanya?
The roughly 125 km drive takes 100–140 minutes.
Which Antalya area is best for families?
Lara and Belek, with large resorts and a reasonable distance from the airport, are the most popular with families.