Kemer and Çıralı: Route Overview from Antalya Airport
Stretching along the western coastline of Antalya province, Kemer and Çıralı rank among Turkey's most sought-after holiday destinations. The distance from Antalya Airport to Kemer is approximately 45–50 km, taking around 45–60 minutes along the coastal road. Çıralı, which draws visitors with its tranquil, unspoilt natural beauty, lies about 25 km south of Kemer, nestled within the Olympos valley. The journey from the airport to Çıralı covers 70–80 km and takes roughly 75–90 minutes.
This stretch of coastline is home to some truly extraordinary sights: Göynük Canyon, Phaselis Ancient City, Olympos and the world-famous natural eternal flames of Yanartaş (Chimaera). When you hire a vehicle from our fleet with Azra Rent a Car, you will enjoy a comfortable drive on both the coastal highway and the inland mountain roads that wind through this spectacular landscape.
Antalya to Kemer: Road Options and Alternative Routes
There are two main routes from Antalya to Kemer. The first is the D400 coastal road — scenic, winding and rich with holiday atmosphere. Along the way you pass tourist highlights such as the Beldibi beaches, Göynük bay and Kemer marina. The second option is a faster but less picturesque inland road that runs via the Antalya ring road and continues on the D650. Our drivers will select the most suitable route based on your preferences and real-time traffic conditions.
Travellers who prefer the coastal route should be aware that during the summer months (July and August), heavy traffic can build up around the Beldibi junction and Kemer town centre. It is wise to add 15–20 minutes to estimated arrival times during peak season. In winter, however, the roads are very quiet and Kemer can be reached in as little as 35–40 minutes.
Things to Do in Kemer: During Your Transfer or Throughout Your Holiday
Kemer is one of the most well-organised and verdant resort towns in the Antalya region. The town centre features five-star hotels, a well-equipped marina and a lively shopping street. The following are the must-see highlights you should include in your itinerary:
- Phaselis Ancient City: A magnificent Lycian settlement built right on the sea with three natural coves. The combination of swimming and archaeology makes it unique.
- Göynük Canyon: An adventure hub packed with trekking trails and zip-line experiences for nature lovers.
- Kemer Marina: A vibrant waterfront with yacht tours, excellent restaurants and souvenir shops.
- Moonlight Beach: A wide, well-organised sandy beach close to Kemer town centre.
- Mount Tahtali (Tahtalı Dağı): Take the Olympos cable car to 2,365 metres for a breathtaking panoramic view across the entire Antalya coastline.
When driving from Kemer towards Çıralı, follow the Olympos sign. The road becomes narrow and winding from this point, so an SUV or compact vehicle will provide a far more comfortable and confident driving experience.
Olympos and Yanartaş: Treasures Waiting to Be Discovered
Olympos is an ancient city that flows into the sea, set within the valley just north of Çıralı. Its Roman-era theatre, bathhouses and scattered ruins make it a captivating destination for anyone with an interest in history. Olympos beach is under special conservation status as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), and night-time walks on the beach are restricted during the nesting season.
Yanartaş (the Chimaera), located roughly 3 km on foot from Olympos along the slopes of the Beydağları mountains, is a globally unique phenomenon: natural gas has been burning from fissures in the rock for millions of years. At night the flames appear larger and photography opportunities are far richer. Sturdy walking shoes are strongly recommended for the hike up to Yanartaş — light sandals are simply not adequate for the terrain.
Çıralı village itself offers a completely different pace of life: a peaceful, nature-centred atmosphere filled with boutique guesthouses and organic restaurants. For travellers seeking a genuine escape from the crowds, it is one of the most ideal spots in the entire Antalya region.
Distance and Journey Time Table: From Antalya Airport
| Destination | Distance (km) | Estimated Time | Road Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kemer Town Centre | 48 km | 45–60 min | Coastal / D400 |
| Beldibi | 35 km | 35–45 min | D400 Coastal Road |
| Göynük | 42 km | 40–50 min | D400 Coastal Road |
| Olympos / Çıralı | 72 km | 75–90 min | D400 + Mountain Road |
| Yanartaş (car park) | 78 km | 85–100 min | D400 + Footpath |
| Phaselis Ancient City | 55 km | 55–65 min | D400 Coastal Road |
Comparing Your Transfer Options
There are several ways to travel from Antalya Airport to Kemer and Çıralı. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your budget, the size of your group and how much flexibility you need.
Private Transfer (Azra Rent a Car): Airport meet-and-greet, direct drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, child seats and large luggage all included. Slightly higher in price than other options but unquestionably the best in terms of comfort and convenience. For destinations like Çıralı where public transport is severely limited, it is the most practical solution available.
Hire Car: You can rent a vehicle at the airport and drive yourself to Kemer or Çıralı. This option is particularly advantageous for travellers who want to explore the region actively and plan day trips to different locations. Browse our fleet and choose a suitable model for daily or weekly hire.
Public Bus (AKST): AKST buses run between Antalya city centre and Kemer, but there is no direct line from the airport. You must first travel to the city centre and then change. For Çıralı, public transport is almost impossible — lengthy waits and multiple minibus connections make it impractical for most visitors.
Taxi: A taxi from the airport to Kemer costs approximately 700–900 TL, and to Çıralı around 1,200–1,500 TL (2026 rates). Compared with a private transfer, taxis are generally more expensive and may charge extra for large luggage.
Accommodation Zones in Kemer and Çıralı
The Kemer area is divided into several distinct sub-zones: Kemer Town Centre, Beldibi, Göynük, Kiriş and Çamyuva. Each has its own character. Beldibi is calmer, with boutique hotels and holiday villages; Göynük is rich in both adventure sports facilities and large hotel complexes. Çamyuva, with its wide sandy beach framed by pine forest, is particularly well suited to families.
In Çıralı, the culture is built around boutique guesthouses and bungalows rather than hotels. Internet connectivity can be limited and electricity may be restricted during certain hours of the night — guests who choose Çıralı are, almost by definition, seeking a digital detox holiday. To reach Çıralı, turn towards Olympos after the town of Kumluca and descend approximately 8 km of mountain road to reach the beach.
What to Keep in Mind When Travelling to Kemer
If this is your first visit to Kemer, a few practical tips will make your stay much smoother. Finding parking in the town centre can be challenging in the summer months; most hotels and guesthouses offer parking, but paid car parks may be necessary in the beach areas close to the sea. Cafés and restaurants around the marina have beautiful sea views but slightly elevated prices — it is worth asking about portion charges before ordering.
Kemer's town centre is very walkable. From the marina area you can easily stroll to supermarkets, carpet shops, pharmacies and banks. Bicycle hire is also available; cycling from the hotel areas into Kemer town centre is both economical and enjoyable. The cycling and walking paths in the area partly overlap with the legendary Lycian Way long-distance trail.
Eating Out and Staying in the Kemer–Çıralı Area
Dining options in Kemer town centre are impressively varied. Restaurants around the marina lean towards seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine; prices are slightly elevated due to the tourist season but quality generally justifies the cost. In the Kiriş and Çamyuva districts you will find more affordable local restaurants and cafés that are popular with residents as well as visitors.
In Çıralı, dining is largely tied to the guesthouses. There are a handful of small restaurants and organic produce stalls in the village, but do not expect a supermarket. Shopping in the nearby town of Kumluca before heading to Çıralı is a much more practical approach. The famous tree-house pensions of Olympos typically provide meals for their guests, with breakfast and dinner included options widely available.
Booking Tips for Your Kemer and Çıralı Transfer
A few practical recommendations before you confirm your transfer to the Kemer–Çıralı area. If you are driving to Çıralı, make sure the fuel tank is full before you leave — there are no petrol stations in the village. Night transfers on the Olympos–Çıralı mountain road are best avoided; the road is narrow, unlit in sections and may have an unpaved surface at certain points along the descent.
In July and August, reaching the Göynük Canyon entrance by car is far easier early in the morning; after 10am, finding a parking space becomes genuinely difficult. If Phaselis is in your plans, note that a separate parking fee is charged at the entrance to the ancient site. Short-term parking at Kemer marina is free, but use a paid car park if you need to leave your vehicle for an extended period.
At Azra Rent a Car we offer both private transfer service from Antalya Airport to Kemer and Çıralı, and daily car hire options for the region. For a comfortable experience with professional drivers who know every corner of this coastline, contact us to arrange your booking. Guests who reserve in advance before the summer season (April–May) benefit from our early booking rates. Once your holiday plans are confirmed, do not delay — secure your vehicle and your preferred transfer time while availability remains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kemer center is 50 km, about 45 minutes from Antalya Airport.
Yes, we offer 24/7 transfer to Cirali and Olympos.