Perched atop the stark white cliffs of Pamukkale lies Hierapolis — an ancient city that's as rich in history as it is in thermal springs. Once a Phrygian cult centre and later a flourishing Greek city, Hierapolis boasts a well-preserved amphitheatre, an array of atmospheric ruins, and the famed Sacred Pool, a thermally heated delight where you can immerse yourself amidst submerged Roman columns, scattered by an ancient earthquake. Just a stone's throw away, the terraces of Pamukkale steal the show. These gleaming white formations, made of travertine — a sedimentary rock deposited by the mineral-rich hot waters — give the town its name, meaning 'Cotton Castle'. With temperatures ranging from 35°C to a steamy 100°C, these hot springs have been creating an expanding landscape of terraces for centuries, as calcium carbonate from the waters crystallises into the soft gel of travertine. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, Hierapolis and Pamukkale offer a unique fusion of cultural history and natural wonder that should not be missed.

Antalya Aquarium offers a chance to explore the underwater world, with thousands of different marine species on display. Feeling adventurous? You can even swim with sharks and rays. Fancy a spot of winter in the middle of summer? Visit 'Snow World' and make snowballs from real snow. The highlight of the visit is the world's largest underwater tunnel — 131 metres long and 3 metres wide.

One of the city’s biggest parks provides the ideal rest in the shadow on a hot day. As you stroll through Karaalioğlu Park, you can take in major sights such as the mayor’s office, a city theatre and also the old tower — Hıdırlık Kulesi — is nearby.