Antalya Airports Guide: Terminals, Transport, and Essential Information

Antalya, the tourism capital of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast (the Turkish Riviera), is served by one major international airport. As one of Europe’s busiest seasonal airports, it handles a massive influx of charter and scheduled flights from across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. This guide explains the airport’s layout, transport options, and essential tips for travellers visiting this sun-drenched holiday destination.

Antalya Airport (AYT)

Overview: Antalya Airport (IATA: AYT) is the main gateway to the Turkish Riviera. Located approximately 13 km (8 miles) northeast of Antalya’s city centre, it is a sprawling complex designed to handle high volumes of tourist traffic. The airport operates with high efficiency during the peak summer season (April-October) and is significantly quieter in the winter months.

Terminals:

• Terminal 1 (Domestic & International): The older terminal, now primarily used for domestic flights and some international charter operations.
• Terminal 2 (International): A large, modern terminal dedicated to international flights. This is where the vast majority of international tourists will arrive and depart.

Important: The terminals are approximately 2 km apart. A free shuttle bus (Havaş) operates frequently between them. Always confirm your terminal with your airline, but most scheduled international flights use Terminal 2.

Getting to and from Antalya City Centre & Resort Areas:

• Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Highly Recommended for Resorts):
  The most hassle-free option, especially for families or those staying in distant resort areas like Belek, Side, or Kemer. Arrange through your hotel or a reputable transfer company. A driver will meet you in arrivals with a sign. Prices vary by distance (e.g., City Centre: €20-€30, Belek: €40-€60, Side: €50-€70).
• Havaş Shuttle Buses (To City Centre & Major Areas):
  Havaş operates reliable, scheduled shuttle buses from both terminals to key points:
  • To Antalya City Centre (Lara & Kaleiçi): Buses run to the city centre (final stop at “5M Migros” bus station). Fare approx. 40-50 TL.
  • To Major Resort Towns: Dedicated Havaş services run to districts like Kemer, Beldibi, and Göynük. Check schedules upon arrival.

  This is an affordable and efficient option if your hotel is near a drop-off point.

• Tram (AntRay) – To City Centre Only:
  From Terminal 1, it’s a short walk or shuttle ride to the Havalimanı (Airport) tram stop on the AntRay line. This modern tram takes you directly to the city centre (e.g., İsmetpaşa, Meydan, Muratpaşa) in about 30-40 minutes for a very low fare (under 30 TL). It does not serve Terminal 2 directly or the coastal resort strips.
• Taxi:
  Official airport taxis (bright orange or yellow) are available outside both terminals. Fares are metered but for long trips to resorts, drivers may offer a fixed price. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand. A trip to the city centre costs around 250-350 TL, to Belek 600-800 TL. Ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi are also available.
• Car Rental:
  All major international and Turkish car rental companies have desks in the arrivals halls of both terminals. Renting a car is an excellent idea for exploring the stunning Turquoise Coast, ancient sites like Perge and Aspendos, and the Taurus Mountains at your own pace.

Best for: All international tourists visiting Antalya and the surrounding Mediterranean resort regions.

Gazipaşa Airport (GZP)

Overview: Gazipaşa Airport is a smaller regional airport located about 150 km (93 miles) east of Antalya city, near Alanya. It handles some scheduled and charter flights, primarily from European cities. It is an alternative for travellers whose final destination is Alanya or the eastern part of the Antalya region.

Important: Double-check your airport code: Antalya is AYT, Gazipaşa is GZP. The transfer from GZP to Antalya city takes over 2 hours by road.

Transiting Through Antalya Airport

AYT is overwhelmingly a destination airport, but domestic connections (e.g., from Istanbul) are common.

For Domestic to International Transits (e.g., Istanbul to a European flight): You will likely need to collect your baggage in the domestic terminal (T1), take the shuttle to the international terminal (T2), and check in again for your international flight. Allow at least 3 hours for this process. Some airlines may through-check baggage on a single ticket—confirm at initial check-in.

Facilities: Terminal 2 is like a large shopping mall with a wide variety of duty-free shops, fashion outlets, electronics stores, and numerous cafes & restaurants. Free WiFi is available. There are several pay-in lounges (e.g., IGA Lounge, ATÜ Lounge).

Essential Information for Travellers

Visa & Entry: Many nationalities (including EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia) require an e-Visa to enter Turkey. This must be obtained online in advance from the official Republic of Turkey e-Visa website. The process is quick, and you should carry a printout or digital copy. Do not use third-party sites that charge extra.

Currency: The Turkish Lira (TL/TRY) is the local currency. ATMs and currency exchange bureaus (döviz) are abundant in the arrivals hall. It is advisable to have some local currency for immediate expenses. Credit cards are widely accepted in resorts and cities.

SIM Cards: Consider purchasing a local tourist SIM card (from Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom) at the airport for data. Kiosks are in the arrivals hall. This is useful for navigation and ride-hailing apps.

Arrival Process (International):

1. Disembark at Terminal 2 and follow signs to passport control.
2. Present your passport and e-Visa (if required) to immigration.
3. Collect baggage.
4. Exit through customs (often a green channel with random scans). You will enter the busy public arrivals hall with transfer desks, car rentals, and meeting points.

Departure Tip: For international flights, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure during peak season (June-September). Check-in and security queues can be extremely long, especially for large charter flights. The airport recommends 3.5 hours for peak times.

Seasonal Crowds: Be prepared for crowds, noise, and potential delays during the summer high season. Patience is key.

Bottom line: Antalya Airport is built for volume. For a smooth arrival to your resort, a pre-booked transfer is worth the peace of mind. If staying in the city, the Havaş bus or tram are great budget options. Have your e-Visa ready, expect summer crowds, and get ready to enjoy the sun and sea.