A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Antalya for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Arachova or Antalya?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Antalya, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Antalya

Antalya is a relaxing, luxurious, and historic vacation spot. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Arachova and Antalya: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Arachova or Antalya?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antalya than Arachova, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antalya is better known for its museums, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Arachova is more popular for its skiing and small town charm. Antalya is more touristy than Arachova and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Also, Antalya is famous for Hadrian's Gate. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Arachova different from Antalya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antalya and Arachova. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Antalya

Arachova is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Antalya is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Antalya is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Antalya?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antalya can be an interesting and educational experience. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Antalya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Antalya

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Antalya can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Antalya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Antalya

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Antalya.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Antalya for the nightlife scene. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.


Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Music?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Arachova is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Antalya active and fun. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Arachova is not a live music destination.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Antalya offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Antalya are among the best in the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Antalya

Arachova and Antalya both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Antalya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Antalya

Arachova and Antalya are both places where visitors can find very good hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Many visitors go to Antalya for the hiking trails. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Antalya?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Antalya is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Families?

Arachova
Antalya

Arachova and Antalya are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Antalya is very family-friendly. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Couples?

Arachova
Antalya

Arachova and Antalya are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Antalya is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.


Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Antalya Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Antalya

Antalya is well known for its public transit. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Antalya is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

While Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.

Is Arachova or Antalya a more walkable city?

Arachova
Antalya

Arachova and Antalya both are notable when exploring on foot.

Arachova is somewhat walkable. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable place. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Antalya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antalya or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Antalya?

In either Arachova or Antalya, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than Arachova because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 2-5 days is enough time in Antalya.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Arachova. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Arachova. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Arachova if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antalya.


  • How many days in Arachova or Antalya? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Antalya 2-5

One day in Arachova or Antalya?

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful vacation spot of Antalya offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Antalya?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arachova has to offer.

Antalya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this vacation spot makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Antalya?

Arachova is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antalya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Arachova or Antalya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antalya is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This vacation spot offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, and The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey.


Which place is cheaper, Antalya or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Antalya is €138. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Antalya in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Antalya 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Antalya 102
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Antalya

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Antalya? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Antalya


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Antalya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Antalya 103

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya

Also for Antalya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - Economy: $88
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - TOP VIP Minibus: $132
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minibus: $117
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minivan: $103
  • Private Transfer From Antalya Airport To Denizyaka / Gündoğdu / Çolaklı: $76
  • Private Transfer From Antalya Airport To Titreyengöl / Sorgun: $91
  • AYT - Konyaaltı | Private Transfer Between Antalya Airport: $37
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Adana city Hotels: $55
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Tarsus city Hotels: $82
  • Airport Private Transfer from Antalya to Side/Belek/Kundu: $65
  • Alanya City Tour, Boat Trip & Cable Car with Transfer from Side: $63
  • Alanya/Mahmutlar: Private Transfer to/from Antalya Airport: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Antalya?

Prices for flights to both Antalya and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Antalya 24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya

For Antalya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pamukkalea and Salda Lake Tour with Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner: $40
  • Traditional Turkish Tastes at Antalya Food Tour: $47
  • Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show with Dinner: $73
  • Full day trip to Pamukkale from Side with dinner: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Antalya 43

Tours and Activities in Antalya

For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Antalya Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $3.21
  • Bazaar Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $6.00
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.65
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt And Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.84
  • Antalya Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-Guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Antalya Sand Sculpture Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Sulu Island and Adrasan Bay: Boat Tour with Lunch: $13
  • Full-Day Private Rafting Adventure in Karabük Türkiye: $13
  • Spa and Skin Care Experience with Massage and Drink: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Antalya 19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Antalya, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. And not only is Arachova much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Arachova would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Arachova and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya than you might in Arachova.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Antalya Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Antalya?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Antalya, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arachova or Antalya?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Antalya in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Antalya. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Antalya. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Antalya fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antalya. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 376 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets more rain in July than Antalya. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Antalya 28°C (83°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Antalya in the Autumn?

Both Antalya and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Antalya because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Antalya in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Antalya fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives less sunshine than Antalya during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 251 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Antalya. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Antalya 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Antalya in the Winter?

Both Antalya and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antalya this time of year.

In the winter, Arachova is around the same temperature as Antalya. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Antalya averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets less sunshine than Antalya. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 161 hours of full sun.

Antalya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Antalya. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Antalya 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Antalya in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Antalya. The small town charm are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Antalya. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Antalya fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antalya during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 243 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Antalya. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Antalya 16°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Antalya and Arachova

Arachova Antalya
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 239 mm (9.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 28°C (83°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 28°C (83°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 227 mm (8.9 in)