Belek is a premier Mediterranean destination known for its long summer season, golden sands, and pine-forested coastlines. This resort town offers a balanced mix of relaxation and outdoor activities, including surfing, diving, and scenic boat tours along the local coves.
Whether you are looking to explore ancient Roman heritage or modern digital art, Belek provides diverse experiences for every traveller. The area is a hub for high-end tourism, combining natural landscapes with world-class facilities.
1. Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park
Kurşunlu Waterfall was declared a nature park in 1991 and remains a protected sanctuary within a 2-kilometre canyon. The park features seven small ponds linked by a series of cascading waterfalls Aspendos Theatre that drop from a height of 18 metres. The 33-hectare park is home to over 100 bird species, making it a significant location for birdwatching and nature photography.
Visitors can walk along the forest trails, enjoy a picnic, or visit the on-site restaurant for a break in the shade.
2. Ancient City of Perge
Located approximately 30 kilometres from Belek, the ancient city of Perge is one of the best-preserved Roman archaeological sites in Turkey. Founded after the Trojan War, the city developed into an important centre of trade and culture during the period of the Roman Empire.
Among the most notable structures within the ancient city are the theatre, stadium, agora, colonnaded streets, monumental fountains and extensive bath complexes.
Perge also holds significance for Christianity, as it is believed to be one of the places where Saint Paul delivered his first sermons.
3. The Land of Legends Theme Park
Located in Kadriye, The Land of Legends is one of the largest theme parks in the world. The park features a wide range of high-speed and thrilling roller coasters, water slides, wave pools and dedicated play areas tailored for children.
The Land of Legends is also known for its live stage productions. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy parades, light and music shows, and acrobatic performances. For shopping enthusiasts, the park includes a shopping avenue featuring internationally recognised brands.
4. Kadriye Beach
Kadriye Beach is a popular coastal spot for both local residents and international visitors. The beach is known for its long stretch of fine sand and calm waters, making it a top choice for families with children. The beach area is backed by pine trees, providing a shaded space for day-long picnics after swimming. Visitors can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a fee or use the public areas for camping and relaxation.
5. Aspendos Aqueduct
Aspendos Aqueduct is a significant historical structure located near Aspendos Theatre. The water system originally stretched for 15 kilometres, and today, you can see the 30-metre-high water pressure towers at each end of the surviving 1-kilometre bridge. Historically, the city’s water was collected in pear-shaped cisterns carved into the bedrock on the hill. This site remains one of the best-preserved examples of ancient water management systems in the Mediterranean.
6. Historical Aspendos Bridge
Historical Aspendos Bridge crosses the Köprüçay River on the road leading to Aspendos Theatre. Locally known as Belkıs or the Old Bridge, it consists of seven arches and spans approximately 225 metres. The bridge was originally built by the Romans in the 4th century AD as Eurymedon Bridge but was later destroyed by earthquakes. It was rebuilt by Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubad between 1219 and 1236 and underwent a final restoration in 2004.
7. Aspendos Theatre
Aspendos Theatre is located 17 kilometres from Belek and is considered one of the largest and best-preserved theatres of the ancient world. Built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, it represents the peak of classical Roman architecture. The theatre was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 2015 and is famous for having the best acoustics in the world. It continues to host thousands of art enthusiasts every year for various cultural events and performances.
8. Aspendos Ancient City
The history of Aspendos dates back to the 10th century BC, with its origins linked to the Achaeans. The city came under Persian rule in the 6th century BC and was later captured by Alexander the Great in 333 BC. During the Roman Empire, the city saw the construction of its most significant architectural works, including the theatre and water systems. Today, the site serves as a cultural venue for high-profile artistic events and festivals.
9. Zeytintaşı Cave
Zeytintaşı Cave was discovered by chance in 1997 and was designated as a Nature Monument in 2013. This karstic cave formed over approximately one million years and is divided into several sections by dripstone columns. The cave features rare stalactites, stalagmites, and columns within its 14-metre depth. Due to its sensitive natural atmosphere, guided tours are recommended for visitors exploring the cave’s warm and humid environment.
10. Garden of Tolerance
Garden of Tolerance opened in 2004 and features a mosque, a church, and a synagogue that all open onto a shared courtyard. It has become a symbol of Belek, representing the peaceful coexistence of the three major monotheistic religions.
A central pool in the garden symbolizes purity, while three peacock statues point toward the Kaaba, the West, and the Wailing Wall to represent Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. This unique site highlights the importance of mutual respect and unity between different cultures and faiths.
