Ayhan Mortepe in Antalya, Muratpaşa: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Antalya

Must-try foods in Antalya

• Antalya Piyazı
  Antalya PiyazıUnlike the standard bean salad found elsewhere in Turkey, Muratpaşa's signature version is a rich, warm dish defined by a thick, creamy sauce of tahini, lemon juice, and vinegar. It is traditionally topped with sliced hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, onions, and parsley, often served as a main meal alongside grilled meats.
• Şiş Köfte
  Şiş KöfteThese are hand-minced, spiced lamb or beef skewers grilled over a charcoal fire to achieve a distinct smoky aroma. In Muratpaşa, they are famously long and thin, served with warm flatbread and grilled peppers. It is the essential partner to Antalya Piyazı in local 'Köfte-Piyaz' restaurants.
• Antalya Usulü Serpme Börek
  Antalya Usulü Serpme BörekA local breakfast specialty where the dough is hand-stretched until paper-thin and then 'tossed' to incorporate air before being filled with minced meat or salty curd cheese. When expertly prepared by masters in Muratpaşa, it is exceptionally crispy and light, sometimes even served with a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Yanık Dondurma
  Yanık DondurmaLiterally 'burnt ice cream,' this unique treat is made from fatty goat's milk that is intentionally scorched during the boiling process. This creates a bold, smoky, and slightly caramelized flavor profile that is highly polarizing but a source of great pride for Antalya locals.
• Hibeş
  HibeşA zesty, savory meze and dip specific to the region, made from a blend of tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and red pepper flakes. It has a smooth, hummus-like consistency but a much punchier, spiced flavor. It is commonly enjoyed as a spread during breakfast or as an appetizer with fresh bread.
• Antalya Usulü Kabak Tatlısı
  Antalya Usulü Kabak TatlısıA pumpkin dessert that stands out because the pumpkin is cooked until firm and translucent rather than mushy. In Muratpaşa, it is strictly served 'Antalya style,' which means it must be generously drizzled with thick tahini and sprinkled with crushed walnuts to balance the intense sweetness.

Trip guide

• About Antalya
  About AntalyaMuratpaşa is the central administrative and historical district of Antalya, Turkey. Its geography is defined by a limestone plateau ending in cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Antalya. Historical Heritage and Architecture The district contains the historical core of Antalya, known as Kaleiçi (Old Town).
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Muratpaşa is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasantly warm for sightseeing and the Mediterranean is suitable for swimming. Summer (July and August) can be intensely hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters are mild but frequently rainy. To avoid the heavy crowds and high prices of the peak summer tourist season.
• Getting around
  Getting around Antalya

  • AntRay Light Rail (Tram) The T1A tram line provides a direct and frequent connection from Antalya Airport (AYT) to central Muratpaşa stations like İsmetpaşa and Doğu Garajı.
  • Public Bus Network Extensive municipal bus routes, including lines 600 and 800 from the airport, serve the entire Muratpaşa district. These buses connect the city center to coastal areas like Lara and the main bus terminal (Otogar).
  • Nostalgic Tram & Taxis For local sightseeing, the historic 'Nostaljik Tramvay' runs along the scenic coastline between Işıklar and Konyaaltı. Alternatively.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase an AntalyaKart for public transport as the AntRay tram and local buses do not accept cash.
  • Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees when exploring local neighborhoods or religious sites to respect local norms.
  • Always accept an offer of Turkish tea in shops or homes, as it is a fundamental gesture of hospitality and social connection.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Antalya

  • Antalya Foodfest 2026: A major gastronomy celebration in Karaalioğlu Park (May 8-10) featuring Mediterranean cuisine and local chefs.
  • Antalya Culture Route Festival: A city-wide cultural takeover in Muratpaşa (Oct 31 - Nov 8) with art exhibitions and live performances.
• Antalya Promotion Foundation↗
  Antalya Promotion FoundationThe official city guide of Antalya, managed by the Antalya Promotion Foundation (ATAV) to promote the region's historical, cultural, and touristic potential.