The 'Ancient Riviera' Where Sun, Sand, and 2,000 Years of History Intersect: Promoting the Charm of Heritage Tourism in Antalya, Turkey
The Culture and Information Office of the Turkish Embassy in Japan highlights Antalya as a prime destination for booming heritage tourism, featuring ancient ruins and summer Night Museum projects.
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- 📰 Published: April 22, 2026 at 20:27
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Image: Antalya Perge Ancient Ruins Gate
The Culture and Information Office of the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey has released the latest information on "Antalya," known as the Turkish Riviera, as a major destination for "Heritage Tourism," which is experiencing growing demand worldwide.
"Heritage Tourism," which involves experiencing the essence of local culture and traditions through ancient ruins and historical buildings, is growing rapidly due to the increasing demand for experiential travel and the momentum for cultural heritage protection. According to the latest research, the global heritage tourism market is projected to reach $624.55 billion in 2025 and expand to $936.97 billion by 2033. In this growing market, Turkey, with its vast Anatolian landmass where numerous civilizations have intersected, boasts an unparalleled historical heritage and is currently attracting attention as one of the most compelling tourist destinations.
Known as the "Capital of Turkish Tourism," Antalya encompasses three ancient cultural regions (Lycia, Pamphylia, and Pisidia) within its borders, continuing to captivate tourists as an archaeological treasure trove. The entire city of Antalya is like an "open-air museum," dotted with numerous historical structures ranging from sunlit amphitheaters to magnificent marble remains.
[Lycia Edition] To the Core of Intellect with Legends of Western Civilization
Image: Patara Ruins "Bouleuterion"
The historical exploration of Antalya begins at Xanthos, the capital of Lycia and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its sacred sanctuary, Letoon. The inscriptions discovered here were crucial keys to deciphering the Lycian language, which had been shrouded in mystery for many years.
Just 15km from there is Patara, known as the birthplace of "St. Nicholas," said to be the model for Santa Claus.
Here, you can see the Lycian council chamber "Bouleuterion," considered a pioneer of representative democracy in the 2nd century BC, and the recently restored massive ancient lighthouse. Furthermore, Patara is a habitat for the Caretta Caretta (loggerhead sea turtle), with an 18km stretch of beautiful sandy beach protected as a nesting ground, making it a rare spot where nature and history harmonize.
Additionally, Myra, known for its richly decorated rock-cut tombs, is a must-see. You can visit the "Church of St. Nicholas," where St. Nicholas served as a bishop and is said to have performed numerous miracles.
[Pamphylia Edition] A Journey to Treasures Heading East, Tracing the Path of Prosperity
Heading east, travelers are welcomed by Perge, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. In Perge, which flourished as the capital of Pamphylia, ancient relics such as elegant colonnaded streets, Roman baths, and a massive stadium that seated 12,000 people remain, conveying the prosperity of those times.
In addition to highly refined Roman sculptures, it has an advanced history where women participated in administration.
Image: Side Ruins "Temple of Apollo"
Furthermore, Perge continues to be an important base on the "St. Paul Way," tracing the footsteps of the early Christian missionary Paul.
A fitting end to the journey is Side, which prospered as a major port city. You can experience a magical moment strolling through magnificent ruins and watching the sun set behind the "Temple of Apollo," the symbol of Antalya's beauty, at dusk.
Magic in the Moonlight: Antalya's Night Museum
Image: Illumination of the Side Ruins "Temple of Apollo"
The greatest appeal of touring the ancient cities of Antalya is that even at the height of summer heat, you can relax and enjoy the ruins without worrying about the time.
The "Night Museum Project," promoted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, is an initiative to maximize the enjoyment of summer tourism, allowing visitors to appreciate Turkey's history and culture in a magical atmosphere from dusk into the night.
Through this endeavor, you can enjoy the ancient ruins of Antalya in summer in a cool and fantastical way. The ancient ruins of Aspendos, Patara, and Side are open until 10:00 PM, and Perge, Myra, and the Side Archaeological Museum are accessible until 9:00 PM.
The "Night Museum Program" for the 2026 season plans to expand its targets further. Please look forward to the magical beauty of the ruins at night, woven by moonlight and illuminations.
[Information on Events Held in Antalya]
The 24th Alanya International Tourism and Culture & Art Festival is Held
This festival, which brings together all parties involved in the culture, history, and art of Alanya, will be held for three days from May 22 (Fri) to 24 (Sun) at İskele-Rıhtım Square. We invite you to visit the venue during these vibrant three days and experience the excitement of the festival.
The Culture and Information Office of the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey has released the latest information on "Antalya," known as the Turkish Riviera, as a major destination for "Heritage Tourism," which is experiencing growing demand worldwide.
"Heritage Tourism," which involves experiencing the essence of local culture and traditions through ancient ruins and historical buildings, is growing rapidly due to the increasing demand for experiential travel and the momentum for cultural heritage protection. According to the latest research, the global heritage tourism market is projected to reach $624.55 billion in 2025 and expand to $936.97 billion by 2033. In this growing market, Turkey, with its vast Anatolian landmass where numerous civilizations have intersected, boasts an unparalleled historical heritage and is currently attracting attention as one of the most compelling tourist destinations.
Known as the "Capital of Turkish Tourism," Antalya encompasses three ancient cultural regions (Lycia, Pamphylia, and Pisidia) within its borders, continuing to captivate tourists as an archaeological treasure trove. The entire city of Antalya is like an "open-air museum," dotted with numerous historical structures ranging from sunlit amphitheaters to magnificent marble remains.
[Lycia Edition] To the Core of Intellect with Legends of Western Civilization
Image: Patara Ruins "Bouleuterion"
The historical exploration of Antalya begins at Xanthos, the capital of Lycia and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its sacred sanctuary, Letoon. The inscriptions discovered here were crucial keys to deciphering the Lycian language, which had been shrouded in mystery for many years.
Just 15km from there is Patara, known as the birthplace of "St. Nicholas," said to be the model for Santa Claus.
Here, you can see the Lycian council chamber "Bouleuterion," considered a pioneer of representative democracy in the 2nd century BC, and the recently restored massive ancient lighthouse. Furthermore, Patara is a habitat for the Caretta Caretta (loggerhead sea turtle), with an 18km stretch of beautiful sandy beach protected as a nesting ground, making it a rare spot where nature and history harmonize.
Additionally, Myra, known for its richly decorated rock-cut tombs, is a must-see. You can visit the "Church of St. Nicholas," where St. Nicholas served as a bishop and is said to have performed numerous miracles.
[Pamphylia Edition] A Journey to Treasures Heading East, Tracing the Path of Prosperity
Heading east, travelers are welcomed by Perge, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. In Perge, which flourished as the capital of Pamphylia, ancient relics such as elegant colonnaded streets, Roman baths, and a massive stadium that seated 12,000 people remain, conveying the prosperity of those times.
In addition to highly refined Roman sculptures, it has an advanced history where women participated in administration.
Image: Side Ruins "Temple of Apollo"
Furthermore, Perge continues to be an important base on the "St. Paul Way," tracing the footsteps of the early Christian missionary Paul.
A fitting end to the journey is Side, which prospered as a major port city. You can experience a magical moment strolling through magnificent ruins and watching the sun set behind the "Temple of Apollo," the symbol of Antalya's beauty, at dusk.
Magic in the Moonlight: Antalya's Night Museum
Image: Illumination of the Side Ruins "Temple of Apollo"
The greatest appeal of touring the ancient cities of Antalya is that even at the height of summer heat, you can relax and enjoy the ruins without worrying about the time.
The "Night Museum Project," promoted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, is an initiative to maximize the enjoyment of summer tourism, allowing visitors to appreciate Turkey's history and culture in a magical atmosphere from dusk into the night.
Through this endeavor, you can enjoy the ancient ruins of Antalya in summer in a cool and fantastical way. The ancient ruins of Aspendos, Patara, and Side are open until 10:00 PM, and Perge, Myra, and the Side Archaeological Museum are accessible until 9:00 PM.
The "Night Museum Program" for the 2026 season plans to expand its targets further. Please look forward to the magical beauty of the ruins at night, woven by moonlight and illuminations.
[Information on Events Held in Antalya]
The 24th Alanya International Tourism and Culture & Art Festival is Held
This festival, which brings together all parties involved in the culture, history, and art of Alanya, will be held for three days from May 22 (Fri) to 24 (Sun) at İskele-Rıhtım Square. We invite you to visit the venue during these vibrant three days and experience the excitement of the festival.