Living in Lara and Muratpaşa: Antalya's City and Coast Guide

Muratpaşa is Antalya's central district: the old town, the main shopping streets, the hospitals and offices, and a dramatic clifftop coastline. At its eastern end it turns into Lara, known for its long sandy beach. If you want city life with the sea on your doorstep, this is the area to look at.

The city side: Muratpaşa

Muratpaşa includes Kaleiçi, the walled old town with its harbour, and the busy modern centre around it. Almost everything is close by: government offices, private and public hospitals, shopping streets, cafés and the tram line. Along the coast, the city sits on top of high cliffs (falez), with parks and viewpoints along the edge and swimming platforms built into the rocks below.

The coast side: Lara

Heading east, the cliffs lead to the Lower Düden Waterfall, where the river drops straight into the sea, and then to Lara, with its long sandy beach. Sand rather than pebbles makes Lara popular with families with young children.

Why buyers choose this side of the city

• Close to the airport. Antalya's airport is on the eastern side of the city, so Lara and eastern Muratpaşa are the quickest to reach from arrivals. Handy if you travel often or have visitors.
• Everything within reach. Hospitals, shopping centres, schools and public services are nearby.
• Sea views from the cliffs. Apartments on the cliff road look straight out over the bay to the mountains.

What kind of property is there?

Central Muratpaşa is mostly apartments, from older city blocks to modern residences. Towards Lara you find more gated complexes with pools, newer buildings and some detached houses. Properties with a direct sea view on the cliff road are the most sought-after, and priced accordingly.

Who is it for?

• Buyers who want city life, with walking-distance shops and services.
• People who travel often and value a short drive to the airport.
• Families who prefer a sandy beach.

Things to consider

• Traffic and noise vary a lot from street to street in the centre. Visit at different times of day.
• Building age matters in the older parts of the centre. Read our guide to checking a building before you buy.
• Residence permit: as everywhere in Antalya, check that the exact neighbourhood is open to new foreign residents.

Compare it with the western side of the city in our Konyaaltı guide, or browse current apartments. Send me a message if you would like to see homes in Lara or Muratpaşa.