Kemer, Turkiye Travel Guide

Discover Kemer: A stunning blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant nightlife on the Turkish Riviera.

Kemer, located on the stunning Turkish Riviera, is a paradise for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. Nestled between the Taurus Mountains and the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, Kemer offers breathtaking natural scenery. The town boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush pine forests. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports. For history enthusiasts, Kemer is surrounded by ancient ruins, including the ancient cities of Phaselis and Olympos. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region and are perfect for a day trip. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a taste of Turkish cuisine and culture. Kemer's marina is a hub of activity, with yachts and boats offering tours along the coast. The town also features a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels. Whether you're exploring the rugged mountains, lounging on the beach, or dining with a view of the sea, Kemer provides a perfect blend of nature, history, and modern amenities.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kemer.

Visit the local markets for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
Take a boat tour to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring ancient ruins and hiking trails.
Try local Turkish dishes like kebabs and mezes at seaside restaurants.
Plan your visit in the spring or autumn to avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Explore Kemer: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kemer

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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TerraCity

Experience the ultimate shopping and dining adventure at TerraCity, Antalya's premier shopping mall featuring top brands and delightful eateries.

4.5

Dolusu Park Kemer

Experience endless fun and adventure at Dolusu Park Kemer, one of Turkey's premier water parks, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

4.0

Olimpos Beach

Discover the pristine beauty of Olimpos Beach in Antalya, where history meets adventure in a stunning coastal paradise.

4.5

Arykanda

Explore Arykanda, an ancient Lycian city in Antalya, where history and breathtaking landscapes meet for an unforgettable adventure.

4.7

Best landmarks in Kemer

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Kemer Saat Kulesi

Discover the charm of Kemer Saat Kulesi, a historical landmark and community garden that embodies Kemer's rich culture and natural beauty.

4.6

Yoruk Park

Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Yoruk Park in Kemer, a peaceful retreat that showcases the essence of Turkey's nomadic traditions.

4.2

Moon Light park

Explore the serene beauty of Moon Light Park in Kemer, Antalya, where lush landscapes meet breathtaking Mediterranean views for a perfect day outdoors.

4.5

Olympos-Bey Mountains Shore National Park

Explore the natural wonders of Olympos-Bey Mountains Shore National Park, a captivating destination where mountains meet the sea in Antalya.

4.6

Best restaurants in Kemer

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Pasa Kebap Salonu

Discover the authentic taste of Turkey at Pasa Kebap Salonu in Kemer – where delicious kebabs meet warm hospitality.

4.3

Captain Pirate Restaurant Bar

Experience delicious seafood and vibrant ambiance at Captain Pirate Restaurant Bar in Kemer - A must-visit culinary adventure!

4.5

CASA LA LUNA

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Casa La Luna in Kemer, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition amidst stunning Antalya scenery.

4.6

Monte Kemer Restaurant

Experience authentic Turkish flavors at Monte Kemer Restaurant in Kemer - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.

4.5

Best bars in Kemer

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Dakapo Beach Club Kemer

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dakapo Beach Club Kemer, where delicious seafood, live music, and fun water park adventures await you.

4.4

AURA CLUB KEMER

Experience the vibrant nightlife at AURA CLUB KEMER, where music, dance, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable night out in Kemer.

3.8

BABYLON LOUNGE

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kemer at Babylon Lounge, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and aromatic hookahs await.

4.3

GRACE Rooftop Kemer

Discover the culinary delight of Grace Rooftop Kemer, where stunning sea views meet exquisite seafood, Italian, steak, and sushi dishes.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Kemer

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AURA CLUB KEMER

Discover the exhilarating nightlife at AURA CLUB KEMER, where unforgettable music, dancing, and entertainment await you in the heart of Kemer.

3.8

Club Inferno Mania Kemer

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Club Inferno Mania Kemer, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments unite in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.9

Niks Club Kemer

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Kemer at Niks Club, where music, dancing, and entertainment unite for an unforgettable night out.

3.9

Kristall Club Kemer

Discover the electric nightlife of Kemer at Kristall Club, the ultimate destination for unforgettable parties and vibrant entertainment in Antalya.

4.0

Best shops in Kemer

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LC Waikiki

Discover affordable fashion at LC Waikiki in Kemer, Antalya, where style meets affordability in a vibrant shopping experience.

4.5

KEMER OLD BAZAAR

Explore Kemer Old Bazaar - a vibrant marketplace where local culture and unique shopping experiences come together in the heart of Antalya.

4.2

Kemer Shopping Center

Experience the vibrant Kemer Shopping Center, your ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in beautiful Antalya.

4.3

KEMER SHOPPİNG CENTER

Explore Kemer Shopping Center: A vibrant destination for shopping and dining in the heart of Kemer, Antalya.

3.7

Explore Kemer on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kemer, mapped for you.

Kemer Essentials

Kemer is located in the Antalya Province of Turkiye, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Antalya city. The nearest international airport is Antalya Airport (AYT). From Antalya Airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a car to reach Kemer. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road depending on traffic conditions. There are also regular bus services that connect Antalya city center to Kemer.
Kemer is well-connected with various modes of transportation. The town itself is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer trips, local taxis and dolmuş (shared minibuses) are readily available and relatively inexpensive. There are also car rental services if you prefer to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Bicycles and scooters are popular for short distances and can be rented from local shops.
The official currency in Turkiye is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Kemer. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when shopping at local markets or smaller establishments. ATMs are widely available throughout Kemer, and you can withdraw cash using international debit or credit cards.
Kemer is generally a safe destination for tourists. As with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Kemer does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kemer. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Kemer like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Turkish goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful beaches and natural parks in the area. For a unique experience, take a boat trip along the coast or hike in the nearby Taurus Mountains. Additionally, visiting the ancient ruins of Phaselis and Olympos can provide a deeper understanding of the region's rich history.

When is the best time to visit Kemer?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kemer

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kemer. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerhaba
  [Mer-ha-ba]
- GoodbyeHoşça kal
  [Hosh-cha kal]
- YesEvet
  [Eh-vet]
- NoHayır
  [Ha-yuhr]
- Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [Loot-fen]
- Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [Te-shek-kur ede-rim]
- Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [O-zur dee-le-rim]
- How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [Na-sul-suh-nuz]
- Fine. And you?İyiyim. Siz?
  [Ee-yee-yim. Siz?]
- Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [Ing-ee-leez-je ko-noo-shu-yor mu-soo-nooz]
- I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [An-la-muh-yor-um]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Me-new-yu ger-mek is-tee-yo-rum, loot-fen]
- I don't eat meatEt yemem
  [Et ye-mem]
- Cheers!Şerefe!
  [She-re-fe]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [O-de-mek is-tee-yo-rum, loot-fen]
- Help!Yardım!
  [Yar-duhm]
- Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [Oo-zak-lash]
- Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [Po-lee-see a-ry-n]
- Call a doctor!Doktor çağırın!
  [Dok-tor cha-yuh-run]
- I'm lostKayboldum
  [Kay-bol-dum]
- I'm illHastayım
  [Has-ta-yum]
- I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [Sat-un al-mak is-tee-yo-rum]
- I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [Sa-de-je ba-ku-yo-rum]
- How much is it?Bu ne kadar?
  [Boo ne ka-dar]
- That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [Boo chok pa-ha-luh]
- Can you lower the price?Fiyatı indirebilir misiniz?
  [Fee-yat-uh in-de-re-bee-leer mee-sin-iz]
- What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [Sa-at kach]
- It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [Sa-at beer]
- Half past (10)On buçuk
  [On boo-chuk]
- MorningSabah
  [Sa-bah]
- AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [O-le-den af-te-rna]
- EveningAkşam
  [Ak-sham]
- YesterdayDün
  [Doon]
- TodayBugün
  [Boo-goon]
- TomorrowYarın
  [Ya-run]
- 1Bir
  [Beer]
- 2İki
  [Ee-kee]
- 3Üç
  [Ooch]
- 4Dört
  [Durt]
- 5Beş
  [Besh]
- 6Altı
  [Al-tuh]
- 7Yedi
  [Ye-dee]
- 8Sekiz
  [Se-keez]
- 9Dokuz
  [Do-kooz]
- 10On
  [On]
- Where's a/the...?Bir/the... nerede?
  [Beer/the... ne-re-deh]
- What's the address?Adres ne?
  [Ad-res neh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bana (haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [Ba-na (ha-ri-ta-da) ger-ste-re-bee-leer mee-see-niz]
- When's the next (bus)?Sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [Son-ra-kee (o-to-bus) neh za-man]
- A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'a)
  [Beer bee-let (....'a)]

History of Kemer

Kemer is home to the ancient city of Phaselis, founded by the Rhodians in the 7th century BC. Phaselis was an important port city in the region, known for its three harbors. The city thrived through various periods, including Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras, serving as a crucial trade center for timber, rose oil, and other goods.
The region surrounding Kemer was once part of the ancient Lycian civilization, a confederation of independent city-states known for their unique rock-cut tombs and distinctive architecture. Lycians were known for their democratic principles and left behind a rich legacy of archaeological sites, including the ruins of Olympos and Termessos.
Under Roman rule, Kemer and its surrounding areas flourished. The Romans constructed roads, aqueducts, and other infrastructure, bolstering the region's economy and trade. Phaselis, in particular, became a prominent Roman city and was adorned with grand structures, including baths, agoras, and theaters.
During the Byzantine era, Kemer continued to be an important hub, though it faced challenges from pirate attacks. The arrival of the Seljuks in the 12th century marked a new chapter, with the region becoming part of the Anatolian Seljuk Sultanate. The Seljuks left their mark with architectural contributions, including caravanserais and fortifications.
Kemer became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The Ottoman period saw the integration of the region into a vast empire that spanned three continents. The Ottomans maintained and enhanced the infrastructure, fostering agricultural development and trade. Kemer's strategic location continued to make it a vital area for commerce and transportation.
In the 20th century, Kemer underwent significant transformation. Originally a small village, it was developed into a modern tourist destination in the 1980s as part of a government-led project. The construction of new hotels, marinas, and other facilities turned Kemer into a popular resort town, attracting visitors from around the world.
Kemer's cultural heritage is a blend of its ancient past and modern influences. Traditional Turkish hospitality, cuisine, and crafts thrive alongside contemporary tourism amenities. The region celebrates various festivals and events that showcase its rich history and vibrant culture, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience.