Welcome to Kepez Antalya – the district where nature meets modern life. Located north of Antalya’s city center, Kepez is known for its wide green areas, family-friendly parks, museums, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It’s a refreshing contrast to the crowded beach zones, offering visitors a more authentic and peaceful side of the city.

With SooTransfer, reaching Kepez from Antalya Airport is easy, fast, and comfortable. Our private airport transfer service ensures a smooth 30-minute ride through scenic city routes. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a long stay, Kepez welcomes you with open arms and endless discoveries.

🌆 Overview: What Makes Kepez Special

Kepez is one of the largest districts in Antalya, stretching from the urban downtown to the hilly outskirts overlooking the sea. It combines residential comfort, cultural landmarks, and vast natural spaces, making it a perfect area for both locals and travelers. Unlike tourist-heavy areas like Lara or Konyaalti, Kepez offers a glimpse into real Antalya life — friendly neighbors, local cafés, and parks full of families enjoying the sunshine.

The district is also a rising destination for eco-tourism and sustainable living. With projects like Dokumapark, Kepez City Forest, and Antalya Zoo, it’s a great choice for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city. It’s calm, clean, and full of history — a balance that defines Antalya’s spirit.

🏛️ A Brief History of Kepez

The word “Kepez” means “hill” in old Turkish — and that’s exactly what defines the district’s landscape. Its elevated position has been strategically important since ancient times. During the Roman and Byzantine eras, these hills provided watch points for the city of Attaleia (modern Antalya). Later, during the Ottoman period, Kepez became known for its fertile land, olive groves, and natural springs.

Modern Kepez started to grow rapidly in the late 20th century as Antalya expanded northward. Today, it’s a lively urban area where traditional Turkish neighborhoods coexist with modern housing complexes, shopping malls, and cultural spaces. Despite its urban development, Kepez has managed to keep a strong connection to nature and community life.

🌄 Landscape & Climate

Kepez lies on gently rolling hills with panoramic views of the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean coast. The climate is typically Mediterranean — hot, dry summers and mild winters. The slightly higher elevation means cooler breezes compared to coastal areas, making outdoor walks and picnics much more pleasant, especially during July and August.

The district is dotted with parks, botanical areas, and nature trails. In spring, the hills are covered with wildflowers and citrus blossoms, filling the air with fragrance. Autumn is equally beautiful — golden light and calm air make it perfect for photography and sightseeing.

🏙️ Modern Kepez Today

Kepez has transformed into one of the most dynamic and livable districts of Antalya. It’s home to government institutions, schools, shopping centers, and entertainment zones. Yet, it still preserves its local authenticity — markets, bakeries, and family restaurants dominate the streets.

The Kepez Municipality has invested heavily in infrastructure and urban renewal, turning the area into a model for sustainable city living. Public transport is excellent, with tram lines and new roads connecting Kepez to Muratpasa, Konyaalti, and the airport. The district also leads Antalya’s eco-friendly projects — solar-powered lighting, bike routes, and smart recycling points are everywhere.

For travelers who want to experience Antalya beyond the beaches, Kepez offers everything — culture, history, nature, and genuine hospitality. From exploring museums to having tea with locals in a park, every day here feels authentic and calm.

🏘️ Neighborhoods of Kepez

Kepez is made up of many distinct neighborhoods, each reflecting a different face of Antalya life. From quiet family areas to lively commercial zones, there’s a perfect spot for every kind of visitor. The district’s diversity is one of its biggest strengths — you can experience the local life of Antalya while staying close to modern comfort.

• Sekerhane – The heart of Kepez, full of markets, tea houses, and daily life scenes. Great place to feel the local rhythm.
• Dokumapark Area – Known for its culture and museums, this zone hosts art events, exhibitions, and cafes inside restored factory buildings.
• Altinova – A developing neighborhood with modern residences, shopping centers, and easy access to the airport.
• Gundogdu – Family-friendly, with schools, small restaurants, and community parks.
• Varsak – The northern part of Kepez, home to Kepez Forest and adventure parks, perfect for hiking or cycling lovers.

Each neighborhood offers something unique. If you want to blend in with the locals, stay around Sekerhane or Dokumapark. If you prefer peace and greenery, choose Varsak. And if you want easy city access, Altinova is ideal — especially for travelers using Antalya Airport frequently.

☕ Local Lifestyle & Culture

Kepez is where you feel the heartbeat of local Antalya. It’s not a tourist bubble — it’s everyday life, genuine and vibrant. Early mornings begin with the smell of fresh simit from bakeries, children heading to school, and locals stopping by for Turkish tea before work. Cafes are social hubs, where men play tavla (backgammon) and discuss football, while women chat over homemade desserts.

Friday is market day in many neighborhoods, when colorful stalls pop up selling fruits, herbs, olives, and cheese. The sound of sellers calling out prices fills the air — “Bir kilo portakal, on lira!” — a true slice of Turkish culture. Bargaining is normal here, and locals appreciate friendly interaction.

Religion and tradition also play a role in daily life. You’ll see small mosques with domes shining in the sun and hear the call to prayer five times a day — a gentle reminder of the city’s cultural roots. However, Kepez remains open and diverse, with people from different parts of Turkey and even abroad living harmoniously.

🎭 Art, History & Museums

If you love culture, Kepez will surprise you. The district’s main highlight is Dokumapark — once an old textile factory, now transformed into a massive open-air cultural complex. Inside you’ll find:

• Antalya Toy Museum – nostalgic for adults, magical for kids.
• Anatolian Civilizations Museum – showcases thousands of years of regional history.
• Art Galleries – featuring contemporary Turkish painters and photographers.
• Vintage Car Museum – a rare collection of restored classic vehicles.

Dokumapark is a must-visit spot — locals come for weekend picnics, exhibitions, and concerts. It’s one of the few places where you can experience art, history, and family leisure all in one location.

🚶 Getting Around Kepez

Kepez has one of the best public transport systems in Antalya. The district is served by both tram and bus networks that connect it with the city center, Konyaalti, Muratpasa, and the airport.

Tram Line

The AntRay Tram has several stops in Kepez, including “Dokuma,” “Bus Station,” and “Varsak.” It’s clean, air-conditioned, and runs from early morning until midnight. A trip to Muratpasa or Kaleici takes just 15–20 minutes.

Buses & Minibuses

Dozens of local bus routes pass through Kepez, linking every corner of the district. The 600 line also connects directly to Antalya Airport (AYT). Payment is easy with the AntalyaKart — a rechargeable travel card available at kiosks or tram stops.

Private Transfers

For visitors who prefer comfort, SooTransfer offers private Kepez transfers with professional drivers and modern vehicles. Choose between Mercedes Vito, Sprinter, or Maybach for a smooth, air-conditioned ride. Drivers speak English and track your flight in real time, so even if your plane is late, your car will be waiting.

Private transfers are ideal for families, groups, or business travelers — no need to wait for taxis or figure out bus schedules. Just land, relax, and enjoy your personalized journey to Kepez.

🚴 Outdoor Activities & Local Life

Kepez is Antalya’s greenest district. Locals love being outdoors — whether for morning exercise, weekend picnics, or long walks through pine forests. The Kepez City Forest is the most popular spot: a vast hillside area with walking paths, barbecue spots, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city and sea.

For sports enthusiasts, there are cycling tracks, tennis courts, and football fields scattered around. Many locals meet for group walks in the forest at sunset — it’s both a social and relaxing ritual. During spring, families gather to grill kebabs, drink tea, and enjoy the mountain breeze.

Don’t miss the Kepez Adventure Park, a family-friendly zone with zip lines, rope bridges, and mini climbing walls. Kids love it, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours surrounded by nature. Close by, the Antalya Zoo houses over 800 animals in large natural enclosures — another perfect destination for a relaxed day trip.

🌍 Connection to Other Districts

Kepez’s location gives it easy access to every corner of Antalya. From here:

• Muratpasa – 10 minutes by tram, where you’ll find Antalya’s old town (Kaleici) and museums.
• Konyaalti – 20 minutes west, home to beaches and the aquarium.
• Lara – 25 minutes east, known for luxury resorts and shopping.
• Airport (AYT) – around 30 minutes via highway or SooTransfer service.

This central accessibility makes Kepez an ideal base for exploring the entire region. You can enjoy local authenticity while being close to all major attractions. For visitors who prefer long stays, Kepez offers better prices, less noise, and easy commuting to beaches and the city center.

🛍️ Shopping in Kepez

Shopping in Kepez Antalya combines modern convenience with local charm. The district offers a mix of open-air markets, neighborhood shops, and new malls — perfect for travelers who want authentic finds without the tourist rush. You can buy anything from handmade crafts and Turkish spices to international brands.

Traditional Markets

• Kepez Bazaar (Kepez Pazari) – Open weekly, this colorful market sells fresh fruits, vegetables, olives, spices, and clothes. The smell of herbs and the sound of vendors shouting prices create a lively scene that captures local spirit.
• Dokuma Market – Located near Dokumapark, ideal for finding local products, handmade ceramics, and Turkish sweets.
• Varsak Farmers Market – A smaller but authentic bazaar loved by locals for its organic produce and cheese.

Modern Shopping Malls

If you prefer air-conditioned comfort and global brands, visit Agora Antalya Mall or OzdilekPark Antalya, both within a short drive from Kepez. These malls feature fashion boutiques, cinemas, restaurants, and playgrounds. For a full shopping and entertainment combo, Erasta Mall in Kepez is one of the city’s most popular spots — a mix of cafes, tech stores, and local designers.

🍴 Dining & Restaurants in Kepez

Kepez might not have beachfront restaurants like Konyaalti, but it makes up for it with authentic Turkish dining experiences. You’ll find cozy family-run lokantas (eateries) serving homemade dishes, grill houses offering smoky kebabs, and cafes where locals relax for hours over Turkish tea.

Local Favorites

• Ozkan Ocakbasi – Famous for its juicy Adana and lamb skewers cooked over charcoal. The smell alone will pull you in.
• Dokuma Park Cafe – Perfect for brunch or coffee after exploring the museums nearby.
• Antalya Sofrasi – A long-standing local restaurant serving classic Mediterranean and Anatolian dishes.
• Hacioglu Lahmacun – Crispy Turkish pizza and pide baked in stone ovens, a must-try for visitors.
• Alara Pastanesi – A beloved pastry shop known for baklava, cakes, and Turkish desserts since the 1980s.

Cafes & Modern Dining

Kepez’s cafe culture is growing fast. Trendy spots like Urban Mood Coffee and Coffee Story blend European coffeehouse vibes with local style. You’ll also find cozy garden cafes inside Dokumapark and along main roads such as Gazi Boulevard, where locals spend afternoons reading or chatting with friends.

Evenings in Kepez are relaxed — locals prefer tea gardens, ice cream walks, or simple dinners out with family. Alcohol is available in some restaurants, but the overall vibe is family-oriented and calm compared to nightlife areas like Kaleici or Lara.

🏨 Where to Stay in Kepez

Kepez is an excellent base for exploring Antalya if you want quiet, affordable accommodation with easy access to the rest of the city. The area has hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments suitable for families, long stays, or digital nomads.

🌟 Recommended Hotels

• Kepez Park Hotel – Clean, comfortable, and centrally located near public transport and markets.
• Ramada Plaza (Antalya Center) – Great option if you want hotel luxury but still close to Kepez and old town areas.
• White Garden Hotel – Ideal for those who prefer boutique comfort but easy access to Kepez via tram.

💼 Apartment Stays & Long-Term Rentals

For longer stays, Kepez offers many furnished apartments and Airbnb options. Monthly rental prices are significantly lower than in Lara or Konyaalti, while still providing all modern conveniences like Wi-Fi, grocery stores, and parks nearby. Neighborhoods like Dokuma and Altinova are popular among expats and families looking for local living.

🏕️ Nearby Nature Stays

If you prefer something unique, stay in eco-lodges or countryside guesthouses around Kepez Forest. These properties offer cabins surrounded by pine trees, perfect for yoga retreats or digital detox weekends. SooTransfer provides private transport to these off-road accommodations on request.

🍦 Local Food Experiences

Kepez is also a great place to explore Turkish street food. Try doner kebab from roadside stands, gozleme (thin stuffed flatbread) from women selling in markets, or boza — a traditional winter drink made from fermented grains. For dessert, don’t miss dondurma (Turkish ice cream) made with natural goat milk — thick, chewy, and full of flavor.

During summer evenings, locals gather in ice cream cafes along Teomanpasa Avenue or Dokumapark. It’s a social ritual — families sit outside, children play, and old men share stories about how Antalya has changed over the years. That’s the essence of Kepez: simple, warm, and real.

🎢 Family Attractions & Fun

Kepez is designed for families and kids. The Antalya Zoo is one of Turkey’s largest, home to elephants, lions, giraffes, and flamingos in natural environments. Next to it, the Nature Park features walking paths, picnic areas, and small waterfalls.

Inside Dokumapark, the Science Center allows children to interact with scientific experiments and robotics displays. In the evening, families enjoy open-air movie screenings and seasonal festivals — all in a safe, green environment.

🚖 Transfers & Accessibility

Kepez’s wide roads and central position make travel quick and easy. With SooTransfer, the drive from Antalya Airport (AYT) takes about 30 minutes. Your driver will meet you with a name sign, help with luggage, and take you directly to your hotel or apartment.

For daily trips, you can also hire a car with a driver to explore surrounding attractions like Duden Waterfalls, Perge Ancient City, or Termessos — all reachable within 45 minutes from Kepez.

🌳 Parks and Nature in Kepez

Kepez is famous for its abundance of green areas. Unlike the coastal districts, here you can truly breathe. The district’s parks are clean, spacious, and full of life. Families come on weekends for picnics, children play freely, and older residents meet to drink tea under the shade of pine trees.

Kepez City Forest

This massive green area is one of Antalya’s largest urban forests. It offers hiking paths, wooden observation decks, and picnic zones. From the top, you can see both the city and the sparkling sea beyond. Locals call it the “lungs of Antalya.” You can rent a bicycle, enjoy a barbecue, or simply relax while birds sing around you.

Dokumapark

Besides its cultural role, Dokumapark also serves as a park full of art installations, sculptures, and playgrounds. During weekends, it becomes one of the most social places in Kepez — families stroll around the museum complex, artists perform in open spaces, and food trucks serve local snacks and lemonade.

Antalya Zoo & Nature Park

Located in upper Kepez, this large zoo covers over 400 acres. It’s not a typical zoo — it’s designed as a nature reserve, with animals living in spacious, natural-style habitats. The park has picnic zones, restaurants, and walking trails surrounded by pine forests. It’s a great day-trip spot for kids and adults alike.

🧭 Things to Do in Kepez Antalya

• Visit Dokumapark and explore its museums, cafés, and art exhibitions.
• Spend a relaxing day at Kepez Forest with panoramic city views.
• Take your family to the Antalya Zoo and Nature Park.
• Join a local market morning at Kepez Bazaar and experience real Antalya life.
• Have tea or Turkish coffee in one of the local tea gardens under pine trees.
• Ride the AntRay Tram downtown and explore Kaleici and the old harbor.
• Plan a day tour to Duden Waterfalls or Termessos Ancient City via SooTransfer.

🕰️ Best Time to Visit

Kepez can be visited all year round. The best months are April to June and September to November — when the weather is warm but not too hot. Summer days can reach 35°C, yet the evenings remain pleasant thanks to the hillside breeze. In winter, temperatures stay mild, making it perfect for cultural visits and hiking.

💡 Travel Tips for Visitors

• Carry a reusable water bottle — tap water is safe, and there are public fountains in many parks.
• Buy an AntalyaKart for buses and trams; it saves both time and money.
• Cash is still preferred in bazaars, though most shops accept cards.
• Download Google Translate for quick Turkish-English communication — locals appreciate the effort.
• If you want peace and quiet, visit popular parks early in the morning or on weekdays.
• Use SooTransfer for private transfers — more reliable than airport taxis and fixed-price guaranteed.

🚖 Getting to Kepez from Antalya Airport

The distance between Antalya Airport (AYT) and Kepez is about 25 km. With SooTransfer, the trip takes 25–30 minutes via D400 highway. Drivers meet passengers at the arrival terminal, assist with luggage, and ensure a comfortable ride in air-conditioned vehicles.

Public buses and trams are available but involve transfers and waiting. That’s why private airport transfers remain the best option for a stress-free arrival — especially for families or those with luggage. You can book easily online or via WhatsApp in under two minutes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Kepez Antalya

How far is Kepez from Antalya Airport?

Kepez is around 25 kilometers from Antalya Airport, which takes about 30 minutes by car or private transfer.

Is Kepez a good place to stay?

Yes, especially for those who want a peaceful, local environment with easy access to downtown and nature. It’s more affordable than beach districts but offers excellent amenities and transport.

Are there beaches near Kepez?

Kepez is inland, but Konyaalti Beach and Lara Beach are just 25–30 minutes away by car or tram connection.

What are the top attractions in Kepez?

Dokumapark, Antalya Zoo, Kepez Forest, and the Science Center are the main highlights — all family-friendly and unique to the district.

Is Kepez safe for tourists?

Absolutely. Kepez is a calm, residential district with friendly people and low crime rates. It’s common to see families walking in parks late into the evening.

How can I book a private transfer?

Visit SooTransfer.com or send a message on WhatsApp to arrange a private transfer in just minutes. You’ll get instant confirmation and a driver waiting upon arrival.

🌅 Final Thoughts

Kepez Antalya offers an authentic glimpse of Turkish life — friendly faces, green hills, and a calm pace that balances perfectly with the city’s energy. It’s a place to breathe, relax, and reconnect with the natural beauty of the Mediterranean while staying close to everything Antalya has to offer.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying long-term, Kepez welcomes you with open arms. Enjoy the views from the forest, the smell of Turkish coffee, and the warmth of its people. For your journey, trust SooTransfer — your reliable partner for Antalya Airport Transfers and local travel across the region.