Ayaküstü Lezzetler in Türkiye: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Muratpaşa

Must-try foods in Muratpaşa

• Tahinli Piyaz
  Tahinli PiyazAntalya's iconic and registered geographical indication food. It is a refreshing white bean salad, but what makes it distinct is the creamy, rich dressing made from tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. The salad base of white beans, tomatoes, onions.
• Şiş Köfte
  Şiş KöfteThe classic, traditional partner to Tahinli Piyaz. Şiş Köfte consists of small, juicy meatballs (usually a mix of ground beef and lamb) seasoned with spices, and sometimes onions, which are skewered and grilled over a charcoal fire to impart a delicious smoky flavor. It is typically served hot off the grill with warm flatbread and the iconic Tahinli Piyaz.
• Serpme Börek
  Serpme BörekA highly-regarded local breakfast specialty unique to Antalya. Unlike other regional böreks, 'serpme' (meaning scattered or spread) refers to the method where the thin dough is stretched by hand into wide, delicate sheets, layered with savory fillings like cheese, spinach, minced meat, or potato, and baked until light and crispy.
• Tahini Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)
  Tahini Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)An iconic regional dessert of candied pumpkin. Slices of pumpkin, often the local Döşemealtı variety, are slow-cooked with sugar until soft and caramelized. The unique Antalya twist is serving it cold, generously drizzled with tahini (sesame paste) and topped with crushed walnuts for a rich, earthy flavor and satisfying crunch.
• Hibeş
  HibeşA popular and traditional meze (appetizer/dip) staple in Antalya's cuisine. It is a creamy, flavorful dip made by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and an assortment of spices, often including red pepper flakes and cumin. Hibeş is typically served cold with fresh bread and is a must-have component of a traditional meze platter.
• Kabak Çiçeği Dolması
  Kabak Çiçeği DolmasıA delicate and seasonal traditional dish, translating to Stuffed Zucchini Flowers. The fragile orange or yellow blossoms of the zucchini plant are gently filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, then slowly cooked in olive oil. It is highly valued for its subtle flavor and is a true taste of authentic Mediterranean local cuisine.

Trip guide

• About Muratpaşa
  About MuratpaşaMuratpaşa, the vibrant heart of Antalya, Türkiye, is a destination where ancient history and traditional culture are beautifully preserved. The district's unique appeal centers on Kaleiçi, the historic Old City, which has served as the first urban settlement of Antalya since its founding around 150 BC by Attalus II, King of Pergamon.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Muratpaşa is during the shoulder seasons of Spring (late April to mid-June) or Autumn (mid-September to late October), as the weather is warm and pleasant for sightseeing while avoiding the extreme heat and peak crowds of summer. These off-peak times coincide with local events like the annual Kaleiçi Old Town Festival in October.
• Getting around
  Getting around Muratpaşa

  • Air and Airport Transfer Fly into Antalya Airport (AYT), which is the major international hub serving Muratpaşa. From the airport, you can take the modern Antalya Tramway directly towards the city center.
  • Antalya Tramway The tram system is a key way to navigate major points in Muratpaşa, including a direct link to the airport. You must purchase an AntalyaKart, the required electronic card for the public transport network.
  • Public Buses and AntalyaKart All services require the AntalyaKart, which can be purchased and topped up at kiosks and vending machines across the city's major transport hubs.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas like Kaleiçi, and use licensed yellow taxis or trusted ride-hailing apps for transportation.
  • Show social respect by learning a few basic Turkish phrases like "Merhaba" (hello) and "Teşekkür ederim" (thank you) for everyday interactions.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Muratpaşa

  • Anfaş Food Product International Trade Fair (January 6-9, 2026) at the Muratpaşa fair center, focusing on food industry trends.
  • A continued trend of new, refined, family-focused ultra all-inclusive resort openings in the broader Antalya region, such as Voyage Kundu.
• Go Türkiye↗
  Go TürkiyeThe official travel guide for Beyoğlu, a vibrant cultural district in Istanbul, provided by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism.