Lara holidays

Where to stay on Lara holidays

Lara is a fantastic destination for all kinds of travellers, offering a variety of accommodation options in different areas. Whether you’re after family-friendly resorts, a romantic retreat, or budget-friendly stays, Lara has something to suit every preference.

• Beachfront resorts – for families and luxury seekers

  The beachfront area in Lara is home to some of Turkey’s most impressive all-inclusive resorts. These hotels often feature private beach access, sprawling pools, and entertainment for all ages. Families will love the kids’ clubs and activities, while couples can indulge in spa treatments and romantic dinners by the sea. For a stress-free stay, explore all-inclusive holidays to Turkey and find great packages that cover everything you need.

• Central Lara – for convenience and nightlife

  Staying near the town centre gives you easy access to Lara’s lively nightlife, local restaurants, and shopping opportunities. This area is great for groups of friends or couples looking to mix relaxing days on the beach with evenings out enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

• Quiet outskirts – for peace and tranquillity

  If you’re after a quieter experience, consider staying on the outskirts of Lara, where you’ll find boutique hotels and smaller accommodations with a more intimate feel. These areas are perfect for solo travellers or couples seeking a serene escape away from the busier beachfront.

• Nearby Antalya – for exploring the region

  For those who want to combine a Lara beach holiday with cultural exploration, staying closer to Antalya is a great option. The city offers a mix of history, shopping, and dining, with easy access to Lara’s beaches.

No matter where you stay in Lara, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. From luxurious resorts to peaceful retreats, there’s a place for everyone on this stunning stretch of Turkey’s coastline.

How to reach Lara

Flight time: Flights to Antalya Airport take approximately 4 hours 30 minutes from London.

Transfer time: It takes about 20–30 minutes by taxi to get to Lara from Antalya Airport and 45–60 minutes by public bus.

Price: A one-way ticket for the 800 bus service costs about TRY40 (£0.90). Taxi fare will come in around TRY300 (£7).

Weather and best time to visit Lara

The best time for your Lara holidays depends on your preference for weather and activities.

• April to June sees highs ranging from 21 to 29°C, low rainfall and around 9 to 12 hours of sunshine. These months are perfect if you prefer to be ahead of the crowds and plan to mix beach days with bouts of sightseeing.

• July to August guarantees blue skies and long hot days. With temperatures reaching 33°C or higher, this is the best time to experience Lara’s beach scene.

• September to October sees temperatures ease slightly, dipping to 32–26°C. You can still enjoy plenty of beach days (with the summer crowds tapering off, you’ll have more space to stretch out), but the less intense heat puts sightseeing back on the agenda.

• November to March is mild, temperatures reaching 15°C even in January, the coldest month. These are great months to go if you want to experience Lara’s less touristy, cultural side and are willing to take your chances with some rain.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Turkish is the official language. Knowing a few Turkish phrases is always appreciated, but English is widely understood, especially in hotels, restaurants and shops.

• Currency: The local currency is the Turkish Lira.

• Getting around: Antalya has a well-developed transport network, ranging from trams and taxis to buses and dolmuş minibuses. You can pay in cash on dolmuş minibuses, but you’ll need a contactless payment card or an AntalyaKart (Antalya’s public transport card) for trams and buses. One-time bus or tram rides will set you back around TRY25 (£0.60). Car hire is popular for exploring the surrounding region, though driving can be busy in city areas.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 220V (frequency 50Hz). Türkiye uses type C and F plug sockets.

• Time zone: Türkiye is 3 hours ahead of GMT year-round.

Best things to do in Lara

Nicknamed Las Vegas by the Sea for its strip of luxury, themed hotels and kilometres of beachfront, Lara holidays guarantee pampering, entertainment and plenty of opportunities for water sports.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Lower Düden Waterfalls: These cascade directly into the sea in Düden Park. The park has a couple of nice lookout points, but the best views are from the water.

• Tünek Tepe: Hands down the best vantage point in Antalya. Cable car to the top for panoramic views over the city, the coast and the Taurus Mountains.

Best districts

• Lara Beach: This glamorous resort district offers luxe hotels, trendy beach bars, up-scale restaurants, expansive golden sands and turquoise waters, all within striking distance of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic centre.

Parks and gardens

• Mehmet Manavoglu Park: It’s all very pretty, with shady winding paths, artificial ponds and bridges, but the main reason to come is the resident turtles.

• Yalım Park: Further along the coast, Yalım offers green lawns, palm trees and superb sea views.

Museums

• Sandland (Antalya Sand Sculpture Museum): This unique open-air museum showcases over 100 ephemeral sand sculptures.

• Antalya Archaeological Museum: Located in the Muratpaşa district, this well-curated museum is perfect for history enthusiasts with artefacts from ancient Lycia, Pamphylia and more.

Historical monuments

• Hadrian’s Gate (Üçkapılar): Leading into Kaleiçi, this monumental triple-arched marble and granite gateway dates to AD 130.

• Hıdırlık Tower: Located in Karaalioğlu Park, this 14m-high tower is one of the oldest surviving monuments in Antalya, dating to the 1st or 2nd century AD.

Day trips in the area

• Perge Ancient City: A 30-minute drive from Lara, this ancient city boasts a wealth of Hellenistic and Roman ruins, including a theatre, a grand colonnaded street, baths and a necropolis.

• Termessos: Nestled high in the Taurus Mountains, ancient Termessos offer a more rugged day out. The journey is rewarded with panoramic views and the chance to explore temples, tombs and theatres.

Activities for families in Lara

Lara is a fantastic destination for families, offering a range of fun-filled activities that appeal to all ages.

• Swimming pools: The resort hotels offer a variety of pools, and many have on-site waterparks with ultra-fast slides and chutes.

• Family-friendly beaches: Soft sand and shallow, calm waters make Lara Beach ideal for families. For added peace of mind, many of the resorts have designated swimming areas with lifeguards.

• Playgrounds: There are numerous colourful playgrounds in the nearby coastal parks, but head inland for something a little different. Located near the Upper Düden Waterfalls, Masal Park is particularly sweet, with life-size cartoon characters like the Flintstones, Aladdin and Genie, and all the usual play equipment.

• Aquariums and zoos: One of the largest aquariums in Europe, Antalya Aquarium features a 131m-long tunnel, interactive exhibits and a range of marine life, including sharks and colourful tropical fish.

• Interactive museums: A must for any Lego fans, AnyBricksHub is a cross between a museum and a shop with incredible brick dioramas.

• Leisure parks: Land of Legends is a one-stop destination for family entertainment, with heart-pumping roller coasters, water slides and even dolphin shows.

• Miniature parks: Located on Konyaaltı Beach, MiniCity Antalya features models of Turkey’s most famous landmarks, giving kids a fun and educational experience of the country’s rich heritage.

Free things to do in Lara

Whether sunning on the beach, dancing the night away at a hotel disco or day-tripping into the city centre, a light wallet needn’t cramp your style.

• Free events: The resort hotels offer all sorts of evening entertainment, from quiz nights to live shows and discos.

• Annual festivals: The municipality of Muratpaşa organises a cultural festival in nearby Kaleiçi every October. Most events are held outdoors and are free to attend.

• Beaches: The western end of Lara Beach is free, but stray into the eastern part, and you’re into hotel territory.

Wellness in Lara

• Spas and thermal baths: Many of Lara’s upscale hotels offer spa facilities with luxurious amenities, including saltwater pools, thermal baths and relaxing hydrotherapy circuits.

• Traditional body care: A visit to a Turkish hammam is a must-do in Lara. This ancient ritual includes a full-body exfoliation, foam massage and invigorating rinse in a steam-filled setting. Many hammams in Lara use locally sourced olive oil and rosewater, which leave skin feeling refreshed and nourished.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Just a short drive from Lara, the Taurus Mountains offer a range of hiking trails suitable for all levels. Paths wind through pine forests and limestone cliffs, with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and chances to spot local wildlife.

• Rafting: Between the Upper Düden and Lower Upper Düden waterfalls, the Düden River offers an exhilarating 4km run. You can book tours with local operators.

• Motorised water sports: Nearly all 4- and 5-star beachside hotels offer jet skiing and parasailing.

• Snorkelling and scuba diving: Antalya has numerous dive sites, so take your pick of reef, wall and cave dives.

• Jeep safaris: For a rugged adventure off-road through the countryside. Jeep safaris often stop at local villages, waterfalls and other beauty spots.

Beaches to enjoy on Lara holidays

No Lara holiday would be complete without time spent on its stunning beaches. Known for their golden sands, turquoise waters, and top-notch facilities, the beaches in Lara are perfect for everything from sunbathing to water sports.

• Lara Beach: The star of the area, Lara Beach stretches for miles, offering soft sands and plenty of space to relax. With its calm, clear waters, it’s ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking to soak up the Mediterranean sunshine. The beachfront is lined with luxurious resorts, but there’s also plenty of public access for those who prefer a more laid-back vibe.

• Water sports and activities: Lara Beach is a haven for adventure lovers. Whether it’s jet-skiing, parasailing, or paddleboarding, there are plenty of ways to get active and make the most of the sea.

• Sand sculptures and festivals: One unique feature of Lara Beach is its annual sand sculpture festival, showcasing incredible creations that add an artistic touch to your beach day. It’s a fun bonus for families and kids.

• Nearby Konyaalti Beach: A short trip from Lara, Konyaalti Beach offers a slightly different vibe with its mix of pebbles and sand. The beach is backed by mountains and is a great spot for a quieter day by the water, with excellent cafes and restaurants nearby.

• Secluded spots: For those who prefer a more private experience, hidden coves along the coast provide a peaceful escape. These are perfect for snorkelling or simply enjoying the beauty of the Turkish Riviera in solitude.

Lara’s beaches have something for everyone, whether you’re after action-packed fun or peaceful relaxation. With their natural beauty and fantastic amenities, they’re a highlight of any Lara holiday, promising sun-soaked memories you’ll never forget.

Local dishes in Lara

One of the best parts of holidays to Lara is exploring the rich flavours of Turkish cuisine, from its signature spices to fresh local produce.

Some typical dishes

• Menemen: In a nutshell, Turkish scrambled eggs with peppers and tomatoes. Ditch the knife and fork and scoop up with bread.

• Pide: The Turkish take on pizza – leavened dough topped with meat, vegetables and cheese traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven.

Meze dishes

• Antalya Piyaz: Parsleyed white beans and onions topped with a smooth tahini, lemon and vinegar sauce. This salad goes really well with Turkish meatballs and other grilled meats.

• Hibeş: Made with tahini, lemon juice and garlic, this dip is a lovely alternative to hummus.

Meat dishes

• Adana kebap: Made with minced lamb and tail fat and seasoned with paprika and red pepper flakes, this spicy kebap is typically served with flatbread and a salad.

• İskender kebap: Thinly sliced grilled lamb combined with spicy tomato sauce and pitta bread, drizzled with butter and yoghurt.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Levrek Izgara: Freshly caught sea bass from the Mediterranean, grilled with a touch of lemon and olive oil.

• Kalamar: You won’t go far wrong with crispy fried squid rings, especially when served with a garlicky nut dip (Tarator).

Street food

• Tirmis: These crunchy, nutty-flavoured legumes are one of the most popular street food snacks in Antalya.

• Midye Dolma: Stuffed with rice, herbs, nuts and spices and served in their shells, these plump mussels need nothing more than a squeeze of lemon.

Sweets and desserts

• Yanıksı Dondurma: Made from fatty goat’s milk with a sharp smokey flavour, Antalya’s traditional Burnt Ice Cream is a must-try.

• Kabak Tatlısı: Topped with crushed walnuts and clotted cream, this candied pumpkin dessert is an autumn and winter favourite.

Local drinks

• Rakı (Aslan Sütü): Distilled from fermented grape pomace and flavoured with anise, Türkiye’s famous ‘lion’s milk’ is traditionally drunk mixed with water à la Pastis or Ouzo.

• Şalgam Suyu: Sometimes drunk as a Rakı chaser, this piquant vegetable-based turnip-flavoured juice goes equally well with spicy kebabs.