Antalya, Turkey

Sep 27

Welcome back to our honeymoon travels! We're now on the final leg of our journey, traveling from Athens, Greece to Antalya, Turkey. After arriving in Athens, we quickly caught our layover flight to Istanbul—but, of course, it wouldn’t be a true travel adventure without a hiccup. Our flight was delayed by almost an hour, leaving us exhausted and pushing us late into the night. We finally touched down in Antalya around 2 AM, completely wiped but excited for what’s next!

When we finally landed in Antalya, we were ready to grab our bags and head straight to the hotel—but, of course, things didn’t go that smoothly. We waited…and waited… but our bags were nowhere to be found. Just as we started to worry, an airport worker announced that any missing luggage had been placed on a completely different belt meant for non-direct flights. It made zero sense, but at that point, we were just relieved to find our bags.

With our luggage in hand, we met up with the transfer service I had arranged from the airport to the hotel—a total lifesaver, especially with our late-night arrival. Our driver took us straight to the hotel, where we checked in and immediately collapsed into bed.

Lara Barut Collection

The next morning, we woke up refreshed and headed straight to the breakfast buffet. It had a little bit of everything you could possibly want, from fresh pastries to local specialties, plus an omelet station and a few other made-to-order options. The servers were quick and attentive, bringing over whatever drinks we wanted—it made the whole experience super easy and relaxed.

After breakfast, we set out to explore all the all-inclusive amenities the Lara Barut Collection had to offer—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The grounds were absolutely massive. We counted nine different pools, including an aquapark, lagoon-style pools, and even an indoor pool. There was a private beach complete with its own bar, and activities galore—everything from yoga sessions to outdoor movies and live performances. For families, they had kids' and youth clubs, plus a dedicated teen zone.

But it didn’t stop there—they also had a full spa and wellness center, a nightclub, and more restaurants than we could keep track of, all included in our package. To top it all off, we even had our own concierge we could text for anything we needed throughout the day.

It honestly felt like a dream. There was so much to do that we decided to extend our stay by another night just to enjoy a full day at the resort, since we knew we’d be busy with other plans today and tomorrow.

After exploring the resort, we decided to treat ourselves to a massage—because who can say no to a little extra relaxation on vacation? Luckily, they had some openings, and we jumped at the chance. The spa facilities were pristine and beautifully designed, with a calm, serene atmosphere. The staff were incredibly respectful of our privacy, speaking softly and making sure we felt completely comfortable. They really listened to what we wanted, tailoring the massage to our preferences—and they did an amazing job. I knew it was good when William started snoring mid-massage!

Afterward, they offered us some tea to help us ease back into the day, which was such a nice touch. Feeling completely relaxed, we headed up to the food area for lunch. Just like breakfast, the choices were endless—we couldn’t resist trying a bit of everything. From pizza and pasta to perfectly cooked meats and seafood, every dish was bursting with flavor. Honestly, we were in foodie heaven!

With our bellies full and feeling refreshed, we headed back to our room to change before asking the front desk to call us a taxi for our tour in downtown Antalya. The hotel arranged it quickly, and after a short wait, our driver arrived. But that’s when things got a little confusing. He asked where we were headed, but either I didn’t pronounce it right, or he didn’t understand. Instead of heading out, he drove us around the corner to what seemed like a taxi hub. There, he spoke to a man who I assume was his boss.

Thankfully, his boss spoke perfect English, so I explained where we needed to be dropped off. He confirmed the location, relayed the info to our driver, and told us how much the ride would cost. With everything sorted, we were finally on our way—though I hadn’t expected so much traffic! The tour guide even messaged me asking where we were, and I had to let him know we’d be late but were almost there.

The taxi eventually dropped us off at a boutique, where the shopkeeper told us to meet back there after the tour—he’d call a taxi for us when we returned. From there, we sprinted off in what we hoped was the right direction, even though we weren’t entirely sure where we were going. Luckily, we managed to find our tour guide and the meeting point just in time. We were beyond relieved that he hadn’t left without us—and even better, there were only two other people on the tour, making it feel like a private adventure!

Explore The Old Town Tour

Our tour guide, Önder, was beyond kind and welcoming. He had this perfect mix of humor and insight, making the tour both fun and educational. You could tell he was well-educated and genuinely passionate about sharing Antalya’s history. Plus, he was super open to all points of view, which made the whole experience feel really conversational and relaxed.

We kicked off the tour at the Antalya Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower), a prominent historical landmark in the heart of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s old town. The Saat Kulesi dates back to the Ottoman period and was built in the early 20th century during the reign of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. It was part of a larger initiative to install clock towers in major cities across the Ottoman Empire, symbolizing modernization and the growing importance of timekeeping in daily life.

The tower itself is constructed from limestone and features a square base with a clock face on each side. It originally served as both a functional timepiece and a watchtower, as it was strategically positioned near the old city walls to keep an eye on the surrounding area. Over time, it has become a symbol of Antalya’s rich history and a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.

Yivli Minare Cami

Then we made our way to Yivli Minare Cami (the Fluted Minaret Mosque), one of Antalya’s most iconic landmarks. As we approached, Önder explained the fascinating history behind this unique structure. The Yivli Minare (Fluted Minaret) was built in the 13th century during the reign of Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I and is one of the oldest examples of Islamic architecture in the region.

The minaret stands out with its distinctive fluted design—it has eight semicircular grooves running vertically along its structure, covered in beautiful blue-green tiles that glisten in the sunlight. It rises to a height of 38 meters (about 125 feet), making it a prominent feature of Antalya’s skyline.

Originally, the mosque at the base of the minaret was a Byzantine church that was converted into a mosque after the Seljuks took control of the city. Önder pointed out how the mosque and minaret represent the blending of different cultural influences over Antalya’s long history—from Byzantine to Seljuk and later Ottoman periods.

Karatay Madrasah

After exploring the Yivli Minare Cami, we continued our journey through Antalya’s old town and made our way to the Karatay Madrasah. As we arrived, Önder shared the rich history of this fascinating structure. The madrasah (an Islamic school) was built in the 13th century during the Seljuk period, commissioned by Celaleddin Karatay, a prominent Seljuk statesman and patron of architecture and education.

The building itself is a beautiful example of Seljuk architecture, with its impressive stone carvings and intricate geometric patterns adorning the entrance. The large, ornate portal is a standout feature, showcasing the Seljuks' mastery of decorative stonework. Önder pointed out the muqarnas—a type of intricate, honeycomb-like decoration commonly found in Islamic architecture—framing the archway, giving it a striking three-dimensional appearance.

Inside, the madrasah was designed as a center for religious and scientific studies. It features a central courtyard surrounded by small rooms where students once lived and studied. Önder explained how madrasahs like this were not only places of religious learning but also centers for philosophy, astronomy, and other sciences, reflecting the intellectual vibrancy of the Seljuk era.

From the Karatay Madrasah, we continued our walk through Antalya’s charming old town, passing over Kırkmerdiven Sokak, also known as the Historical Forty-Stairs Shortcut. This steep, narrow staircase has been used for centuries as a shortcut connecting the upper parts of Kaleiçi to the ancient port below. As we descended, Önder shared stories of how merchants and sailors once used this very path, hauling goods between the bustling harbor and the city above. The views along the stairs were stunning, with glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea peeking through the buildings as we made our way down.

Kaleiçi Marina

At the bottom of the stairs, we arrived at the Kaleiçi Marina, the ancient port of Antalya. The harbor is steeped in history, once serving as a major trading hub during the Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuk periods. As we strolled along the waterfront, we admired the ancient protective walls that still stand guard over the port, a testament to the city’s strategic importance throughout history.

The marina was filled with a mix of modern tour boats and traditional wooden vessels, their reflections shimmering in the clear blue waters. Önder led us to a perfect vantage point where we could take in the breathtaking Mediterranean landscape—the deep blue sea stretching out before us, framed by the rugged Taurus Mountains in the distance. The contrast between the ancient stone walls, the vibrant harbor life, and the natural beauty of the coastline made this spot feel truly magical.

Mermerli Beach

From the marina, we made our way to Mermerli Beach, one of Antalya’s hidden gems tucked right at the edge of Kaleiçi. Önder led us to a viewpoint above the beach, and it was easy to see why this spot is a favorite for photos. The view from the top was absolutely stunning—you could see the ancient Antalya harbor stretching out to one side, with the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea shimmering below.

The beach itself is a small, secluded cove surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, giving it a cozy, tucked-away feel. From our vantage point, we had a perfect panoramic view of the harbor’s protective walls, the boats bobbing gently in the water.

Antalya Ethnography Museum

Our next stop was the Antalya Etnografya Müzesi (Antalya Ethnography Museum), nestled in the heart of Kaleiçi, the city’s historic district. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era mansion, and as soon as we stepped inside, it felt like we were transported back in time. Önder explained that the museum was designed to showcase the daily life of Antalya’s people during the Ottoman Period, with each room carefully arranged to reflect different aspects of home life from that era.

As we moved through the mansion, we saw rooms filled with period-specific furniture, textiles, and household items, all giving us a glimpse into how families lived centuries ago. One room was set up as a traditional Ottoman living room, complete with ornate carpets, low seating, and intricately designed lanterns. Another room showcased the kitchen area, filled with old cooking utensils and pottery, giving us a sense of the culinary traditions of the time.

Önder gave us detailed explanations of each room, sharing stories about family life, social customs, and the architectural styles of the period. He also highlighted the exhibits dedicated to Yörük life—the nomadic culture that has played a significant role in shaping Antalya’s heritage. Through animations and lifelike displays, we got to see how the Yörük people lived, from their tent setups to their handcrafted textiles and tools. It was fascinating to learn how their semi-nomadic lifestyle influenced everything from local cuisine to traditional festivals.

The combination of Önder’s storytelling and the immersive exhibits really brought Antalya’s rich cultural history to life.

After leaving the Antalya Ethnography Museum, we strolled through the charming streets of Kaleiçi and passed by Keçili Park. The park, though small, was a peaceful spot with shaded pathways and a few sculptures, offering a brief, serene break from the bustling old town. It’s a lovely little green space where locals and visitors alike can relax, but we were eager to keep moving toward our next historical landmark.

Hıdırlık Tower

Our next stop was the Hıdırlık Tower, one of Antalya’s most iconic ancient structures. As we approached, Önder shared its fascinating history. The Hıdırlık Tower dates back to the 2nd century AD, built during the Roman Empire. Standing 14 meters high, the tower’s base is square, while the upper section is cylindrical, making it a distinctive structure along the coastline. Its original purpose is still debated—some believe it served as a fortified watchtower to protect the harbor, while others suggest it may have been used as a lighthouse or even a mausoleum.

From the tower’s base, we had an unbelievable view of the Mediterranean Sea stretching out endlessly before us, with the Taurus Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. The vantage point also gave us a perfect overlook of the ancient harbor and the surrounding city walls. It was easy to imagine Roman soldiers standing guard here centuries ago, watching for incoming ships.

Önder explained how the tower has stood the test of time, witnessing the city’s transformation from a Roman port to the vibrant city Antalya is today.

Hesapçı Sokak

From Hıdırlık Tower, we made our way to Hesapçı Sokak, often described as having the mystical fragrance of history—and it’s easy to see why. The moment we stepped into these narrow, winding streets, it felt like we had been transported back in time. The combination of stone structures and wooden bay windows on the old Ottoman-era houses created a picture-perfect scene. The streets were lined with houses featuring lush gardens, their walls draped in vibrant bougainvillea and the sweet scent of jasmine lingering in the air.

As we wandered along, Önder pointed out some of the most popular bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops tucked into the corners of Kaleiçi’s main street. He recommended a few local eateries where we could sample authentic Turkish dishes, from fresh mezes to perfectly grilled kebabs. He also shared tips on hidden spots worth visiting—like quiet courtyards and tucked-away cafes that most tourists might miss.

Önder was full of useful advice, too. He suggested places to avoid, particularly tourist traps where the prices were inflated but the quality wasn’t great. For those interested in shopping, he pointed us toward authentic rug shops, explaining how to spot genuine Turkish carpets versus mass-produced imitations. He also mentioned some great spots to pick up local crafts and handmade souvenirs that truly reflect Antalya’s rich culture.

Miklaç Işıklar

Our final stop on the tour was Miklaç Işıklar, a cozy local dessert shop tucked away in the heart of Antalya. It was the perfect way to end the day, and Önder had one last surprise for us. He kindly treated everyone to a tasting of İrmik Helva (Semolina Halva), a classic Ottoman dessert that Turkish people have been making for centuries.

The İrmik Helva was rich and warm, with a slightly nutty flavor from the toasted semolina. It was served with a scoop of creamy ice cream, a drizzle of tahini, and a sprinkle of peanuts—a combination that’s beloved in Turkish cuisine. William absolutely loved it. He was all about the mix of warm halva and cold ice cream, and he kept raving about the depth of flavor from the tahini and the crunch from the peanuts.

As for me… not so much. The texture and the tahini just didn’t do it for me. I could appreciate the cultural significance and the craftsmanship behind it, but it wasn’t my kind of dessert. Still, it was fun to try something new—and seeing William enjoy it made the experience even better.

Önder explained how İrmik Helva is more than just a dessert in Turkey—it’s tied to family traditions and special occasions, carrying a lot of cultural weight. Sharing it together felt like the perfect end to an amazing day, even if my taste buds didn’t exactly agree.

After we finished our desserts, Önder gathered us for a final chat. He told us that if we ever needed help with anything—whether it was more tips, recommendations, or even just general advice about Antalya—we could reach out to him anytime. His genuine kindness and openness really stood out. It wasn’t just about the tour for him; he clearly loved sharing his city with visitors and wanted to make sure we had the best experience possible.

Knowing we had a local connection like Önder made us feel even more at home in Antalya. It was comforting to know that if we had any questions or needed guidance for the rest of our stay, he was just a message away. It really wrapped up the tour on a warm, personal note, and we left feeling like we had made a new friend in the city.

What We Liked About the Tour:

Önder’s Personality & Knowledge: Önder was a standout! His kindness, humor, and deep knowledge of Antalya’s history made the tour both engaging and educational. He was open to all points of view, which made the experience feel more like a conversation than a lecture.
Variety of Stops: The mix of historical sites like Antalya Saat Kulesi, Yivli Minare Cami, and Hıdırlık Tower, combined with cultural spots like the Ethnography Museum and Hesapçı Sokak, gave us a well-rounded feel of the city.
Local Insights: Önder’s recommendations for restaurants, where to buy authentic rugs, and what to avoid in the touristy areas were super helpful. It felt like we were getting insider knowledge we wouldn’t have found on our own.
The Views: Places like Kaleiçi Marina, Mermerli Beach, and Hıdırlık Tower offered some of the most breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains.
The Personal Touch at the End: Önder offering to help us with anything beyond the tour made the whole experience feel more personal and genuine.

What We Didn’t Like About the Tour:

· Nothing! The entire experience was seamless, enjoyable, and packed with memorable moments. Önder’s expertise, the carefully chosen stops, and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere made it one of the best tours we’ve ever been on.

This tour was an absolute highlight of our time in Antalya. From the rich history and stunning views to Önder’s personal touch and local insights, every part of the day was thoughtfully curated and engaging. It felt less like a typical tour and more like exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend who genuinely cared about our experience. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to see the heart of Antalya, this tour offers something for everyone. We would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Antalya—it’s the perfect way to dive into the city’s culture, history, and hidden gems!

After the tour, we attempted to make our way back to the boutique store where our taxi was supposed to pick us up. We only got a little lost wandering through Kaleiçi’s winding streets but eventually found our way back. When we arrived, we let the shopkeepers know we needed a taxi, as we were instructed earlier. They kindly called one for us, but while we waited, they definitely tried to persuade us to browse and shop.

When we politely declined, saying we were just waiting for the taxi, we could hear them muttering under their breath about how rude it was not to buy anything. Even though we were specifically told to come back to this shop just to arrange a taxi, they clearly weren’t thrilled that we didn’t make a purchase—but I digress.

Thankfully, the taxi arrived soon after, and we were on our way back to the hotel, ready to unwind after a long, adventure-filled day.

Dinner

Once we got back to the hotel, we headed straight to dinner, and wow—we were overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. The buffet had so many things to choose from, it felt impossible to decide. Naturally, we had to try a little bit of everything! From perfectly grilled meats and fresh seafood to flavorful pastas and vibrant salads, every dish we tried was amazing—everything tasted so fresh and full of flavor.

But the best part was yet to come: dessert. There was an entire area dedicated to desserts, and it was like stepping into a sweet tooth’s paradise. Cakes, cupcakes, cookies—you name it, they had it. It was impossible to choose just one, so of course, we had to try it all. Each dessert was more delicious than the last, and we left dinner feeling very satisfied (and maybe just a little too full). It was the perfect way to end such an exciting day!

After dinner, we headed back to our room to get some much-needed rest before our early morning rise—and by early, I mean 1 AM! We had a full day ahead of us with an exciting tour planned, starting with a hot air balloon ride and followed by exploring the stunning natural wonders of Pamukkale. Knowing we had such an adventure coming up, we tried our best to wind down and get as much sleep as possible… though the excitement definitely made it hard to drift off!

Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Flight

We woke up at 1 AM and got ready for the big day ahead. Groggy but excited, we made our way outside the resort to our designated pickup point. A small bus pulled up shortly after, and without much fanfare, the driver quickly checked our names and whisked us away to another meeting spot. It all felt a bit rushed, and no one had really said much yet, so we weren’t entirely sure what to expect.

At the next stop, we swapped vans and finally met our tour instructor. It was nice to hear someone introduce themselves after all the silence—it made everything feel a bit more organized and reassuring. She explained that we were heading to Denizli for our hot air balloon ride at sunrise and that the drive would take about three hours.

With that in mind, we did what anyone would do at that hour—we took a little nap on the ride. The gentle hum of the van and the anticipation of floating over Pamukkale’s stunning landscapes lulled us into a light sleep as we made our way toward this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We finally made it to our destination just as the first light of dawn started to peek over the horizon. Groggy but excited, we got off the bus—only to hop onto another bus that would take us directly to the hot air balloon launch site. As we approached, the scene was absolutely magical: hot air balloons were scattered across the open field, their brightly colored canopies slowly inflating and glowing against the soft, early morning light. The sound of the burners firing up echoed through the air, adding to the anticipation.

We were guided to our balloon, where our pilot introduced himself with a warm smile and a calm demeanor that immediately made us feel at ease. He explained the safety procedures, cracked a few jokes, and reassured everyone that we were in good hands. With hearts racing, we climbed into the basket, gripping the edges with a mix of excitement and nerves.

Then, with a sudden but gentle burst of heat from the flame burners, we began to slowly ascend. It was such a surreal feeling—one moment, we were firmly on the ground, and the next, we were floating above the earth. The initial lift-off was thrilling and a little scary, as we felt the basket sway slightly with the breeze. But as we climbed higher, any fear was quickly replaced by awe.

The view was breathtaking. Below us, the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale gleamed like a natural wonderland, cascading down the mountainside in soft, glowing layers. The sun began to rise, casting a golden hue over the landscape, and the contrast between the bright white terraces and the turquoise thermal pools was absolutely stunning. In the distance, we could see other balloons drifting peacefully across the sky, creating a picture-perfect scene that felt almost dreamlike.

The world felt silent and still up there, except for the occasional roar of the burners keeping us aloft. It was one of those rare moments where time seemed to stand still, and all we could do was soak in the beauty of it all. The 360-degree view of the mountains, valleys, and ancient ruins of Hierapolis below made it a truly unforgettable experience.

It was equal parts thrilling and peaceful, a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility. Even though it started off a little scary, by the time we were floating among the clouds, it felt like pure magic. It definitely checked off a major bucket list item for both me and William. Floating high above the stunning landscapes of Pamukkale, watching the sunrise paint the sky in shades of gold and pink—it was everything we had imagined and more. The mix of thrill and tranquility made it an experience we’ll never forget, and sharing that moment together made it even more special. It’s not every day you get to tick off such an epic adventure from your list, and this one absolutely exceeded all our expectations!

After the hot air balloon landed, we were greeted with a glass of non-alcoholic champagne to celebrate and received a certificate commemorating our flight. If the tour had ended there, it would have been a solid five-star experience.

However, things quickly went downhill. The crew persistently asked for tips—which we did give, as we could see the effort it took to land the balloon safely. But then, the guide spent a good 15 minutes pressuring everyone to buy photos and videos. He tried to make deals like, “If everyone buys the videos, it’ll only be 5 euros each, but if just a few of you buy, it’ll be 15 euros,” which didn’t really make sense. A few people gave in, but most didn’t, and the whole situation felt really awkward. We ended up standing around for about 30 minutes, which only added to the discomfort, until a van finally arrived to take us back to our own vehicle.

Onyx “Museum”

Once we were back in the van, the guide informed us that the Pamukkale thermal pools wouldn’t open until 9 AM. However, a quick Google search revealed they actually opened at 8 AM. Instead of heading straight there, the guide announced we’d be making a stop at a nearby onyx museum to stretch some time.

When we arrived, it quickly became clear that this “museum” was more of a glorified shop than an educational stop. There was very little factual information about onyx, and the whole place felt like a gimmick designed to pressure us into buying something. It was frustrating and felt like a complete waste of time. We walked around the so-called museum, but none of us purchased anything, and the stop felt entirely unnecessary.

Pamukkale

Then, the guide told us the entrance fee for the Pamukkale thermal pools was 30 euros. A few minutes later, she changed it to 33 euros, and then again to 35 euros, claiming she needed the money in cash. But just as quickly, she shifted gears and said it didn’t have to be euros—it could be USD, Turkish lira, or even paid by card using the onyx museum’s card reader, which felt really sketchy. She assured us the fee covered both entry and swimming, and most people ended up paying her directly.

But when we arrived at Pamukkale - Hierapolis, she casually mentioned that anyone who hadn’t given her cash could just buy their ticket at the gate using a card. It was beyond frustrating. None of it made sense—the constant changes in the fee, the weird payment methods, and the fact that this extra cost wasn’t even mentioned in the tour details. The whole situation felt disorganized at best and scammy at worst.

Once inside Pamukkale - Hierapolis, the guide gave us a brief tour and some historical information about Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city founded in the 2nd century BC. Known for its natural hot springs, Hierapolis became a prominent healing center, drawing people from across the region seeking therapeutic treatments. The site features impressive ruins, including a well-preserved theater, ancient baths, and the necropolis, one of the largest in Turkey.

After the tour, we headed to Cleopatra's Antique Pool, only to find out it cost an additional 10 euros to swim. So, why did the guide claim the 35 euros covered swimming? That was confusing, to say the least.

Thermal Pools

We decided to explore the thermal pools first, and I’ll admit—they were absolutely breathtaking. The bright white travertine terraces paired with the vibrant blue water made for a stunning sight. But it was incredibly slippery (and, of course, I slipped—but gracefully, of course!). The biggest downside, though, was how overcrowded it was. With so many people packed in, it was hard to really soak in the beauty of the place. I guess you could technically swim in the thermal pools, but they were shallow, tough to navigate, and—oh yeah—you weren’t allowed to wear shoes, something the guide conveniently forgot to mention.

After checking out the thermal pools, we decided to explore more of Hierapolis since we were given three hours—three hours that felt excessive considering there wasn’t much to do unless you wanted to swim in the overcrowded Cleopatra's Antique Pool and pay extra for it.

Hierapolis

We made our way to the Plutonium, an ancient religious site believed to be an entrance to the underworld. The Plutonium was a cave that emitted toxic gases, and in ancient times, priests of Cybele would demonstrate their divine protection by entering the cave and surviving, while animals brought inside would suffocate almost immediately. It was fascinating to see, but also eerie knowing its dark history.

Next, we visited the Temple of Apollo, which was once the most important religious structure in Hierapolis. Built in the 3rd century AD, it stood over the Plutonium and was dedicated to Apollo, the god of music, prophecy, and healing. Though only ruins remain, you can still see the remnants of its grand columns and imagine how magnificent it must have been in its prime.

While both sites were interesting, it didn’t take nearly enough time to justify the three-hour window, and we found ourselves just wandering around, trying to make the most of it.

We eventually made our way out of Pamukkale to the area just outside the entrance, where a few small cafés were set up. There, we ran into most of our tour group, who were hanging around and chatting. They mentioned they had decided to wait outside rather than pay the extra fees for swimming or exploring further. Honestly, we didn’t blame them.

We ended up waiting out there for about an hour ourselves—not only was it scorching hot, but there really wasn’t much else to see or do. It felt like we were just killing time, waiting for the next part of the tour. Finally, after what felt like forever, the tour guide popped out and announced that we were heading to lunch.

Tugba Restaurant

We made our way to a lunch buffet that, surprisingly, was included in the tour. The place was called Tugba Restaurant, and as soon as we walked in, we knew we were in for a surprise—but not the good kind.

There was food laid out, but no heat lamps to keep anything warm, and flies were buzzing around everywhere. The whole setup looked pretty questionable. I grabbed a small portion of rice, but after one bite, I couldn’t eat any more. William tried some chicken and had the same reaction. Even some of the other people in our group commented that they didn’t want to risk getting food poisoning.

Honestly, I would’ve much preferred if they had just dropped us off at a decent restaurant where we could’ve paid for a proper meal. At least then, we’d have had something enjoyable to look forward to.

Back to Antalya

We then began the long ride back to Antalya, and let me tell you—the trip was unbearable. The van was sweltering hot, and everyone was sweating and complaining. Even I, who’s usually freezing in any situation, was sweating. It felt like we were trapped in an oven on wheels.

People were voicing their frustration, and just as William asked if they could turn on the AC, we ended up switching vans. The new van was slightly better in terms of temperature, but not by much—it was still uncomfortably warm. After a grueling 3-hour drive, we finally made it back to the hotel around 5 PM, absolutely exhausted and starving.

What We Liked About The Tour:

The Hot Air Balloon Ride: This was the highlight of the entire day. Floating over Pamukkale at sunrise was absolutely magical. The view of the white travertine terraces and turquoise pools bathed in golden morning light was breathtaking. The pilot made us feel safe and at ease, and the peacefulness of soaring above the landscape was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It checked off a major bucket list item for both me and William, and we couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the day.
The Scenery at Pamukkale: Despite the downsides, the natural beauty of the thermal pools and terraces was undeniable. The bright white formations contrasted with the vibrant blue waters made for stunning photos and unforgettable memories—even if the crowds and logistics made it harder to enjoy.

What We Didn’t Like:

The Pushy Sales Tactics After the Balloon Ride: After such an amazing balloon experience, it was disappointing to be hounded for tips and pressured to buy photos and videos. The awkward bargaining and standing around waiting for the next step took away from the magic of the morning.
The Onyx “Museum” Stop: This was clearly just a sales stop disguised as a museum. There was little to no educational value, and it felt like a waste of time, especially when we could’ve been exploring Pamukkale instead. No one from our group bought anything, and the whole experience felt unnecessary.
Confusing and Sketchy Payment Requests for Pamukkale: The constantly changing entrance fees—from 30 to 35 euros—and the insistence on paying in cash (or via the onyx museum’s card reader) felt disorganized and sketchy. It was frustrating to find out we could’ve just bought our tickets at the gate with a card, especially since the swimming fees weren’t even included as promised.
Terrible Lunch at Tugba Restaurant: The included buffet lunch was disappointing. The food was left out without any heat lamps, and flies were everywhere. The quality was so questionable that neither of us could eat more than a bite, and others in the group didn’t want to risk getting sick. We would’ve much preferred being dropped off at a decent restaurant where we could pay for a proper meal.
The Miserable Ride Back to Antalya: The van ride back was unbearable. It was sweltering hot, and even I, who’s usually cold, was sweating. Everyone was uncomfortable and complaining, and although we eventually switched vans, the new one wasn’t much better. After a grueling 3-hour ride, we finally made it back to the hotel, completely exhausted and starving.

While the hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale was an unforgettable, bucket-list experience, the rest of the tour left a lot to be desired. The day started with excitement and awe as we floated above the stunning white travertine terraces at sunrise, but unfortunately, everything went downhill from there. We wouldn’t recommend this tour. If you’re looking to experience a hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale, we suggest finding a tour that only focuses on the balloon experience or one that is at least transparent about prices and what’s included. The balloon ride itself is absolutely worth it—but the rest of the tour felt like a series of unnecessary stops, hidden costs, and uncomfortable travel conditions that soured the overall experience.

Lara Barut Collection Amenities

Once we arrived back at the hotel, we fully embraced everything it had to offer for the next day and a half. After the chaos of the tour, it felt amazing to unwind. We spent time lounging by the pool, indulging in another relaxing massage, and treating ourselves to two more incredible dinners—complete with delectable desserts that hit the spot.

The next day was pure bliss. We soaked up the sun at the pool and private beach, enjoying the convenience of bar service without a care in the world. In the evening, we caught one of the hotel’s outdoor concerts, which was the perfect way to cap off such a relaxing day.

Overall, we were so glad we added that extra day of downtime. The Lara Barut Collection really made us feel like royalty, and it was exactly what we needed to recharge.

As our time came to an end, it was bittersweet saying goodbye to such a beautiful place. The hotel arranged a taxi for us to head back to the airport, and just like that, our honeymoon adventure was over.

Turkey Moments

The highlights—like the magical hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale, exploring the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, and soaking in the luxury at the Lara Barut Collection—were unforgettable. The natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of Turkey truly captivated us.

However, the disorganization and hidden costs of the tour were definitely frustrating, and parts of the trip didn’t quite live up to expectations. That said, the incredible hospitality, delicious food, and those moments of pure relaxation more than made up for the bumps along the way.

Turkey gave us memories we’ll cherish forever, from thrilling adventures to peaceful sunsets by the sea. It was the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation for our honeymoon, and we left feeling grateful for the experiences—and already dreaming about where our next adventure will take us!

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At The Tattooed Travelers, our travel diary offers a personal and immersive look into our adventures around the world. It’s a vibrant collection of stories, reflections, history, sights, and even the smells that make each journey unforgettable. From breathtaking destinations and mouthwatering meals to behind-the-scenes moments and valuable lessons learned, our travel diary captures the magic of exploring the world, one memory at a time. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical advice, or a spark of wanderlust, our diary invites you to wander with us and feel the thrill of discovery.

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