Kalkan, a picturesque coastal town on the Turkish Riviera, enchants with its traditional charm, breathtaking bays and culinary highlights. In just 48 hours you can immerse yourself in the relaxed lifestyle, discover historical treasures and enjoy the sun on some of Turkey's most beautiful beaches.
Day 1: Discovery tour and culinary delights
Morning: Walk through the old town
A morning walk through the old town of Kalkan is like traveling back in time to another era. The charming alleys, lined with traditional Turkish houses with their typical wooden balconies and lush blooming bougainvilleas, offer the perfect ambience to immerse yourself in the relaxed lifestyle of this coastal town.
As you explore the Old Town, you will come across a variety of small boutiques, craft shops and galleries offering local artwork and crafts. This is the perfect opportunity to discover unique souvenirs and gifts inspired by the region's rich culture and artistic heritage.
Let yourself be seduced by the hidden cafés and tea gardens that invite you to linger. Enjoy a cup of traditional Turkish tea or coffee and watch the hustle and bustle of the old town. The friendly locals and the relaxed atmosphere make every visit an unforgettable experience.
A morning walk through Kalkan's old town is not only a visual experience, but also offers the opportunity to experience the local scents and flavors, be it through the fresh spices of the markets or the fragrant flowers that adorn almost every house. Take the time to immerse yourself in the flair and beauty of Kalkan's old town and enjoy the calm and welcoming atmosphere of this enchanting place.
Lunch: Lunch at “Korsan Meze”
After your walk through the old town, the “Korsan Meze” is a great place for a culinary lunch break. This restaurant is famous for its excellent location overlooking the picturesque Bay of Shield and for its selection of delicious meze, the traditional Turkish appetizers.
At “Korsan Meze” you can enjoy a variety of small dishes that reflect the freshness and diversity of Aegean cuisine. From freshly prepared tzatziki to eggplant in olive oil to spicy sheep's cheese and seafood - everyone will find something to their taste here. The meze are perfectly complemented by freshly baked bread and a selection of local Weinan.
Choose a table on the terrace to enjoy the mild climate and breathtaking views of the turquoise sea. The “Korsan Meze” is the perfect place to enjoy the culinary delicacies of the region in a relaxed atmosphere while watching the hustle and bustle in the harbor of Kalkan.
The restaurant is centrally located in Kalkan and is therefore easy to reach on foot from the old town. A lunch at Korsan Meze is not only a feast for the taste buds, but also offers the opportunity to experience the relaxed lifestyle and hospitable culture of this charming Turkish coastal town.
Afternoon: Relaxation on Kaputaş Beach
After an enjoyable lunch at “Korsan Meze”, the breathtaking Kaputaş Beach awaits you to enjoy the afternoon to the fullest. Known for its bright turquoise waters and fine golden sand, this beach is one of the most picturesque bays on the Turkish Riviera and just a short drive from Kalkan.
Kaputaş Beach, framed by steep cliffs, is accessible via stairs from the coastal road car park. The effort of the descent is immediately rewarded as soon as you feel the soft sand under your feet and the clear, refreshing water welcomes you. This beach is a true natural paradise, ideal for swimming, sunbathing or just relaxing and enjoying the spectacular surroundings.
Don't forget to bring your snorkeling equipment, as the crystal clear water offers ideal conditions to explore the colorful underwater world. The beach has no permanent facilities, so pack sunscreen, plenty of water and maybe a few snacks to spend the day carefree.
Kaputaş Beach is easily accessible by car or local dolmuş (minibus) from Kalkan. The short drive along the coastal road also offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
An afternoon at Kaputaş Beach is the perfect opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Turkish Riviera and enjoy a moment of tranquility in one of the region's most beautiful bays.
Evening: Dinner with a view at the “Aubergine”
The perfect end to a wonderful day in Kalkan is dinner at “Aubergine”, a restaurant known for its excellent location right on the water and its excellent cuisine. Here you can end the day with delicious dishes and a breathtaking view of Kalkan Bay.
The “Aubergine” offers a diverse menu with fresh seafood, traditional Turkish dishes and international delicacies. Each dish is prepared and presented with care to highlight the natural flavor and freshness of the ingredients. The house specialty, fresh fish and seafood straight from the sea, is an absolute must.
Choose a table on the terrace to enjoy the warm evening breeze and the unparalleled views of the sea and the setting sun. The gentle lapping of the waves and the romantic atmosphere make the “Aubergine” the ideal place for a relaxed dinner.
The restaurant is centrally located in Kalkan and is within easy walking distance of many parts of the city. A dinner at “Aubergine” not only offers culinary delights, but also the opportunity to reflect on the day in one of the most beautiful settings in Kalkan and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this charming coastal town.
Day 2: Cultural treasures and culinary discoveries
Morning: Excursion to the ancient city of Xanthos
Begin your second day in Kalkan with a trip to the ancient city of Xanthos, about 20 kilometers inland. Once the capital of Lycia and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic site offers fascinating insights into one of the region's earliest civilizations.
As you walk through the ruins, you can admire the remains of impressive monuments such as the Harpy Monument, the Nereid Monument and the well-preserved Roman Theater. Each of these monuments tells a story from a time when Xanthos was an important political, religious and cultural center.
A visit to Xanthos is also an opportunity to learn more about Lycian culture and its unique traditions, such as the distinctive rock tombs that dot the landscape. The exhibition in the small on-site museum offers additional information and insights into the finds from the excavation site.
Xanthos is accessible by car or a local dolmuş from Kalkan. The journey there takes you through picturesque landscapes and offers the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. A mid-morning visit is ideal to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and explore the ruins at your leisure.
Pack enough water and sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes to walk along the sometimes uneven paths. A trip to Xanthos is a must for history buffs and offers a fascinating complement to the relaxed coastal life in Kalkan.
Lunch: picnic with panorama
After the historical exploration tour of Xanthos, you can enjoy a relaxed picnic in the picturesque surroundings. The Lycian landscape surrounding the ancient city is known for its breathtaking panoramas characterized by green hills, tranquil river valleys and distant coastline.
Pack a picnic filled with local delicacies – think fresh Turkish bread, a selection of meze such as stuffed grape leaves and eggplant paste, some local cheese, olives and of course some sweet baklava for dessert. Local markets in Kalkan or on the way to Xanthos offer the perfect opportunity to pick up all these delicacies.
Find a shady spot under an olive tree or on one of the grassy hills from which you can overlook the landscape. A picnic in this setting not only offers the opportunity to enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine, but also a moment of peace in nature.
Don't forget to bring enough water, a picnic blanket and perhaps binoculars to fully enjoy the view. A panoramic picnic after visiting Xanthos is a wonderful way to absorb the cultural impressions while enjoying the natural beauty of the Lycia region.
Afternoon: Boat tour along the coast
Another highlight awaits you in the afternoon: a relaxing boat tour along the picturesque coast of Kalkan. These boat trips offer a unique perspective on the stunning Turkish Riviera, with its hidden coves, crystal clear waters and lush Mediterranean vegetation.
Many tours start directly from the port in Kalkan and take you to some of the most beautiful and remote beaches and bays in the region, which are often only accessible from the sea. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to stop at idyllic locations to swim and snorkel, explore the rich underwater world, or simply relax on deck and soak up the sun.
The boats' crews usually provide a delicious lunch on board, often consisting of fresh fish, meze and other local specialties. So you can treat yourself to culinary delights while enjoying the spectacular view.
To take part in a boat tour, you can inquire directly at the harbor in Kalkan and book your seats there. There are a variety of options, from small, private boats to larger excursion vessels, so there is something to suit every taste and budget.
A boat tour along the Kalkan coast is the perfect way to spend the afternoon experiencing the beauty of the Turkish Riviera from the water. The combination of relaxation, adventure and culinary delights makes this excursion an unforgettable experience of your stay in Kalkan.
Evening: conclusion in the “Fish Terrace”
You can round off your unforgettable stay in Kalkan perfectly with dinner at the “Fish Terrace”. Known for its prime location and excellent cuisine, this renowned restaurant offers breathtaking views of Kalkan Bay and is the ideal place to end your trip in style.
At the “Fish Terrace” you can expect an exquisite selection of fresh seafood and fish dishes, prepared with the utmost care and attention to quality. The menu varies depending on the catch of the day, so you can always enjoy the freshest, tastiest options. The culinary offering is complemented by a selection of local and international wines that are perfectly matched to the dishes.
Choose a table on the terrace to enjoy the mild climate, the romantic atmosphere and the incomparable view of the sparkling sea under the starry sky. The “Fish Terrace” not only offers a top-class culinary experience, but also a setting that will make your last hours in Kalkan unforgettable.
The restaurant is centrally located and is easy to reach from the harbor or the old town. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season, to ensure you can score one of the coveted sea view tables.
Dinner at Fish Terrace is the perfect opportunity to experience the culinary highlights of Kalkan while enjoying the breathtaking beauty and relaxed atmosphere of this charming Turkish coastal town.
Conclusion
Kalkan is a place that delights with its breathtaking landscape, rich cultural heritage and culinary delights. In just 48 hours you can discover the diversity and beauty of this unique place and return home with unforgettable memories.
Address: Kalkan, Kaş/Antalya, Türkiye
