Antalya has a well-developed public transportation network that makes it easy and affordable to get around the city without a car. The backbone of the system is the Antray tram, a modern light rail line that runs from the Antalya Museum in the west through the city center and Kaleici area, continuing east toward the Expo area. For tourists staying in the central districts, the tram covers most of the key attractions and is clean, air-conditioned, and frequent. A nostalgic heritage tram also runs a short loop through the old city center, which is a charming ride even if you do not need it for transportation.
To use public buses and the tram, you will need an Antalyakart, a rechargeable contactless transit card. These can be purchased at kiosks near major tram stops and bus terminals for a small deposit, then loaded with credit. Each tap deducts a flat fare, and transfers within a short time window are discounted. The city bus network is extensive and reaches neighborhoods and beaches that the tram does not, including Lara Beach and the Upper Duden Waterfalls. Bus routes and schedules can be checked through the Antalya Ulasim app or Google Maps, which has reasonably accurate public transit data for the city.
Dolmus minibuses are another popular and very local way to travel. These shared minibuses run fixed routes but without fixed stops — you flag them down on the roadside and tell the driver where you want to get off. Dolmus routes connect the city center to surrounding towns and neighborhoods, and they are particularly useful for reaching places like Kemer, Olympos, or other coastal towns to the southwest. Fares are low and paid in cash directly to the driver. They can be crowded during peak hours but offer an authentic slice of daily Turkish life.
For shorter trips within the city, taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive compared to Western European cities. Make sure the meter is running when you get in, or agree on a fare in advance for longer trips. Ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi work in Antalya and can help you avoid fare disputes by showing estimated costs upfront. Within Kaleici itself, the old town is compact enough that walking is the best and really the only practical option, as the narrow cobblestone streets are not accessible to most vehicles. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the terrain is hilly and the stone surfaces can be slippery.
