Antalya, the crown jewel of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, has long been a favorite for travelers, retirees, expats, and digital nomads. Known for its turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and rich history, the city is more than a holiday destination—it’s becoming a home base for many. Whether you’re relocating for work, long-term travel, or retirement, moving to Antalya brings both opportunities and challenges.
From exploring living in Antalya’s best neighborhoods to understanding short-term and long-term stays, this guide dives into what life is really like in this sun-soaked city. And since internet connectivity is the lifeline of modern expats and nomads, we’ll also show you how ConnectPls unlimited Wi-Fi and eSIM solutions make living in Antalya smoother and more connected.
Key Takeaways
- Neighborhoods matter: Antalya offers family-friendly districts, vibrant expat hubs, and budget-friendly areas.
- Safety: The city is generally safe, with neighborhoods like Konyaaltı and Lara popular among expats.
- Lifestyle: Living in Antalya means enjoying beaches, cultural history, and affordable living costs.
- Stays: Choose short-term apartments, Airbnb, or co-living for initial stays before committing to long-term rentals.
- Connectivity: With ConnectPls unlimited internet, nomads and expats can stay online without worrying about unreliable local Wi-Fi.
Why Consider Moving to Antalya?
Antalya offers an excellent quality of life for newcomers. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Mediterranean cuisine, and affordable healthcare, the city is attractive for both families and solo expats. The low cost of living compared to Western Europe also makes it appealing to digital nomads.
As one of Turkey’s largest cities, Antalya also provides strong infrastructure, including shopping malls, hospitals, international schools, and a growing coworking scene—perfect for those planning on living in Antalya long term.
Where to Live in Antalya
Choosing the right neighborhood is the first step when moving to Antalya. Each area has its own unique charm:
Konyaaltı
Located by the beach, Konyaaltı is one of the most popular areas for expats. With modern apartments, a scenic promenade, and proximity to coworking spaces, it’s ideal for digital nomads and families.
Lara
Another expat favorite, Lara is known for upscale apartments, international schools, and shopping centers. It’s slightly more expensive but offers comfort and convenience.
Kaleiçi (Old Town)
If you want character and charm, Kaleiçi provides cobblestone streets, Ottoman houses, and boutique living. Best for short-term stays or creative expats who want inspiration from Antalya’s history.
Kepez
Affordable and more traditional, Kepez is further inland and better suited for locals or expats on a tight budget.
Safest Neighborhoods in Antalya
Antalya is generally safe, but some neighborhoods are especially popular with expats due to their reputation for security:
- Konyaaltı – Safe, modern, and expat-friendly.
- Lara – Known for safety, family living, and easy access to services.
- Belek – Just outside Antalya, perfect for golfers and retirees.
For digital nomads or long-term travelers, safety and reliable connectivity often go hand in hand. With ConnectPls unlimited Wi-Fi and eSIM, you don’t need to depend on café networks or inconsistent local providers.
Best Parts of Antalya
Beaches & Nature
From Konyaaltı Beach to Düden Waterfalls, Antalya offers endless outdoor activities.
Culture
Explore Hadrian’s Gate, Kaleiçi Old Town, and Antalya Museum to dive into the city’s history.
Modern Amenities
Shopping malls like TerraCity and MarkAntalya provide international comforts, while healthcare is affordable and accessible.
Expat Community
With a growing number of expats and retirees, Antalya offers plenty of opportunities for networking and support.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Antalya
Advantages
- Low cost of living compared to Europe.
- Beautiful beaches and nature nearby.
- Strong expat community.
- Access to both traditional Turkish and international amenities.
Disadvantages
- Language barrier (though many locals in tourist areas speak English).
- Bureaucracy for residence permits can be time-consuming.
- Hot summers may not suit everyone.
Where to Stay in Antalya for Short-Term and Long-Term
Short-Term
- Airbnb & Serviced Apartments – Great for testing neighborhoods before committing.
- Hotels in Konyaaltı or Lara – Comfortable, with easy access to services.
- Coliving Spaces – Ideal for digital nomads seeking community.
Long-Term
- Apartments in Konyaaltı or Lara – Best for families or expats staying a year or more.
- Villas in Belek – Perfect for retirees or those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
- Traditional Apartments in Kepez – Affordable for budget-conscious expats.
Before signing long-term contracts, many expats recommend staying short-term first. During this period, ConnectPls unlimited data ensures you can work, stream, and stay connected without disruptions.
The Expat and Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Antalya
Antalya has become a mini-hub for digital nomads. Cafés and coworking spaces like Workinton provide strong communities. Families can take advantage of international schools, while retirees appreciate healthcare and Mediterranean living.
Reliable internet is often a concern in Turkey, with fluctuations common in some areas. That’s why digital nomads and families rely on ConnectPls eSIMs and unlimited Wi-Fi—removing the stress of downtime and ensuring seamless productivity.
Practical Tips for Moving to Antalya
- Learn basic Turkish: It helps with bureaucracy and daily life.
- Understand residence permits: Required for long-term stays—be prepared with documents.
- Budget for summers: Air conditioning and utilities rise during peak heat.
- Stay connected: Reliable internet is essential for both remote work and family life—ConnectPls unlimited internet is your best option.
Conclusion
Living in Antalya offers sunshine, affordability, and community, making it one of the best cities for expats and digital nomads in Turkey. Whether you’re drawn to the beaches of Konyaaltı, the charm of Kaleiçi, or the upscale lifestyle in Lara, moving to Antalya provides endless opportunities.
The challenges—bureaucracy, language, or summer heat—are manageable with preparation. And when it comes to internet, don’t leave it to chance. With ConnectPls unlimited Wi-Fi and eSIM solutions, expats, nomads, and families enjoy seamless online access, ensuring both productivity and connection in their new Mediterranean home.
