Antalya, perched on Turkey’s turquoise Mediterranean coast, is a destination where ancient history, stunning beaches, and modern luxury converge. Known for its dramatic cliffs, vibrant old town, and world-class resorts, it’s a haven for travelers seeking indulgence. Pairing this destination with Corendon Airlines, a Turkish carrier specializing in holiday travel, ensures a seamless and upscale experience. This guide outlines a luxurious 5-day itinerary, leveraging Corendon’s services, premium accommodations, and Antalya’s finest offerings, tailored for a sophisticated traveler.
Why Choose Corendon Airlines for a Luxury Trip?
Corendon Airlines, headquartered in Antalya, operates a modern fleet of Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft, serving 165 airports across 65 countries. Its focus on holiday destinations like Antalya makes it an ideal choice for a luxury getaway. Key features enhancing the luxury experience include:
- Premium Seating: Corendon’s Premium tickets offer extra legroom (front-row seats with up to 32-inch pitch) and generous baggage allowances (two 20kg hold bags per person plus 8kg cabin and 3kg underseat bags). This ensures comfort and convenience for travelers with designer luggage or extra essentials.
- Lounge Access: Pre-bookable lounge access at Antalya Airport, with up to 50% discounts, provides a stylish retreat with free Wi-Fi, rich snacks, and a relaxing ambiance before your flight.
- Direct Flights: From the UK, Corendon offers direct flights to Antalya from London Gatwick, Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, and Glasgow, minimizing travel time. Flights from Germany (e.g., Düsseldorf, Cologne, Hanover) and other European cities are also frequent, with fares as low as €23–€36 for early bookings.
- Customer-Centric Services: Online check-in (72–5 hours before departure), flexible ticket changes, and dedicated support enhance the travel experience. Corendon’s partnerships with tour operators allow seamless package bookings, including hotels and transfers.
For a luxury trip, book early via Corendon’s website (www.corendonairlines.com) to secure Premium seats and lounge access, and consider their hotel packages for curated accommodations.
Day 1: Arrival and Immersion in Kaleiçi
Morning: Arrival in Antalya
Fly into Antalya International Airport (AYT) with Corendon Airlines from your chosen city. A direct flight from Manchester, for example, takes about four hours. Upon landing, relax in the airport’s pre-booked lounge, enjoying complimentary snacks and Wi-Fi while arranging your transfer.
Opt for a private transfer to your hotel, arranged through Corendon’s extras (e.g., car hire or transfers). For ultimate luxury, check into Ramada Plaza Antalya, centrally located with 223 rooms offering panoramic sea views, suite and deluxe options, and concierge services for bespoke tours. Its cliffside setting, where the Mediterranean meets the Taurus Mountains, is breathtaking.
Afternoon: Exploring Kaleiçi
After settling in, head to Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic Old Town, a short walk from the hotel. This “inside the castle” district features cobbled lanes, Ottoman houses draped in bougainvillea, and Roman-era walls. With a certified guide (booked via the hotel’s concierge), visit:
- Hadrian’s Gate: A 2nd-century Roman triumphal arch, a grand entry to Kaleiçi.
- Yivli Minare Mosque: A 13th-century Seljuk masterpiece with a striking fluted minaret.
- Kesik Minare: A former Roman temple turned mosque, blending architectural eras.
Dine at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant in Kaleiçi, known for its Ottoman-inspired cuisine. Try the lamb shank with quince or seafood risotto, paired with Turkish wines from the Empordà region.
Evening: Sunset and Spa
Return to Ramada Plaza for a sunset cocktail at its sea-view terrace bar, overlooking the Mediterranean. Unwind at the hotel’s spa, indulging in a Turkish hammam or massage, a nod to Antalya’s wellness traditions.
Day 2: Beach Day at Konyaaltı and Cultural Immersion
Morning: Konyaaltı Beach
After a gourmet breakfast at the hotel’s Asmani Restaurant, head to Konyaaltı Beach, a 10-minute drive away. This pebble beach, backed by the Taurus Mountains, offers luxury beach clubs like Gaga Beach Club, where you can rent a private cabana, sip champagne, and swim in turquoise waters. Corendon’s blog recommends April–October for ideal beach weather, with temperatures of 30–35°C in summer.
Afternoon: Antalya Museum
Post-beach, visit the Antalya Archaeological Museum, a 15-minute drive from Konyaaltı. This world-class museum houses artifacts from the region’s Lycian, Pamphylian, and Roman eras, including intricate mosaics and the “Weary Hercules” statue. A private guide, arranged via the hotel, can enhance the experience with historical context.
Lunch at 7 Mehmet, a legendary Antalya restaurant, offers refined Turkish dishes like stuffed zucchini flowers and slow-cooked lamb, with sea views.
Evening: Yacht Cruise
Book a private sunset yacht cruise through Corendon’s tour partners, departing from Antalya’s harbor. Sail along the coast, passing cliffs and coves, with a gourmet dinner onboard featuring fresh Palamós prawns and Turkish meze. Return to the hotel for a nightcap at the poolside bar.
Day 3: Düden Waterfalls and Perge Excursion
Morning: Düden Waterfalls
Take a half-day excursion to the Düden Waterfalls, 15km from the city center. The Upper Düden cascades through lush greenery, while the Lower Düden plunges into the Mediterranean, best viewed by boat. Corendon’s tour operator partners offer private tours with a driver and guide, ensuring a comfortable journey. Enjoy a picnic of Turkish delicacies by the falls, arranged by the hotel.
Afternoon: Perge Ancient City
Continue to Perge, a 20-minute drive from the waterfalls. This ancient Pamphylian city, dating to 1200 BCE, boasts a well-preserved theater, agora, and Roman baths. A private archaeologist guide can illuminate Perge’s role as a Hellenistic hub. Stop at a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting, sampling Antalya’s tempranillo blends.
Evening: Fine Dining at Akra Antalya
Dine at Akra Antalya, a luxury beachfront hotel 10 minutes from Ramada Plaza. Its Asmani Restaurant, on the rooftop, serves international cuisine with 360-degree views. Try the grilled octopus or wagyu steak, paired with a Turkish rakı. After dinner, enjoy live music at the hotel’s lounge
Day 4: Lycian Way Hike and Lara Beach Relaxation
Morning: Lycian Way
Embark on a guided morning hike along the Lycian Way, a 509km trail connecting Antalya to Fethiye. Corendon’s blog highlights its rugged beauty, ideal for nature lovers. Opt for a short, scenic section near Çıralı (1-hour drive), with views of cliffs and ancient ruins like Olympos. A private guide ensures a tailored pace, with a luxury picnic lunch included.
Afternoon: Lara Beach
Return to Antalya and spend the afternoon at Lara Beach, 15 minutes from the city center. This sandy stretch is home to upscale resorts like Holiday Inn Antalya – Lara, offering private beach access, cabanas, and water sports. Rent a jet ski or relax with a massage at the hotel’s spa. Corendon’s hotel packages can include stays here for a seamless experience.
Evening: Cultural Performance
Attend a cultural show at the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival (seasonal, June–September) in the 2nd-century Aspendos Theater, 40 minutes from Antalya. If not in season, enjoy a whirling dervish performance at Kaleiçi’s Mevlevi House. Dine at Vanilla Lounge, a chic Kaleiçi spot serving fusion dishes like duck confit with fig sauce.
Day 5: Shopping and Departure
Morning: Shopping in Kaleiçi and TerraCity
Explore Kaleiçi’s boutiques for luxury souvenirs like handwoven Turkish rugs, gold jewelry, or leather goods. Visit MarkAntalya Shopping Mall or TerraCity Shopping Centre (15-minute drive) for international brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Corendon’s concierge services can arrange a personal shopper for a tailored experience.
Enjoy a leisurely brunch at The Big Man, a trendy Kaleiçi café with sea views, serving avocado toast and Turkish menemen.
Afternoon: Departure
Return to Antalya Airport via private transfer. Relax in the pre-booked lounge, reflecting on your trip over Turkish coffee. Check in online via Corendon’s website (72–5 hours before departure) for a smooth process. Your Premium ticket ensures priority boarding, leaving you refreshed for the flight home.
Practical Tips for a Luxury Trip
- Best Time to Visit: April–October offers warm weather (20–35°C), ideal for beaches and sightseeing. June–August is hottest, perfect for sun-seekers.
- Booking: Reserve flights and Premium seats early on www.corendonairlines.com for discounts (e.g., 20% off round-trip tickets). Check Corendon’s hotel packages for luxury options like Ramada Plaza or Akra Antalya.
- Budget: Expect £150–£300 per person for round-trip Premium flights from the UK, based on posts citing fares as low as £39–£85. Luxury hotels average £150–300 per night, with dining and tours at £50–150 per activity.
- Getting Around: Use private transfers or car hire via Corendon for flexibility. The AntRay tram connects the airport to Kaleiçi for quick city access.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly in religious sites, and tip 5–10% at restaurants for exceptional service.
- Sustainability: Corendon’s eco-conscious fleet and initiatives align with sustainable travel. Support local artisans for authentic souvenirs.
Conclusion
A luxury trip to Antalya with Corendon Airlines combines seamless travel, world-class accommodations, and immersive experiences. From the historic charm of Kaleiçi to the natural splendor of Düden Waterfalls and the Lycian Way, Antalya offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Corendon’s Premium services, direct flights, and curated packages elevate the journey, ensuring a memorable escape to Turkey’s Mediterranean gem. Book now at www.corendonairlines.com to start your Antalya adventure.