Antalya is a major city on the Mediterranean coast with a population of over 1 million people. Its long pebbly beach and good quality hotels attract a large number of tourists every year. It is also an excellent base from which to visit a number of ancient cities on its outskirts like Perge, Side, Termessos, Phaselis, Olimpos and Aspendos. As the next busiest airport to Istanbul, Antalya's airport can be reached directly from most airports around the world. Antalya is also known as the Turkish Riviera. With its palm-lined boulevard, internationally-acclaimed marina, and old castle with traditional architecture, all set amidst a modern city, Antalya is a major tourist center in Turkey. In addition to the wide selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops, the city also plays host to a number of sporting events throughout the year, like International Beach Volleyball, triathlon, golf tournaments, archery, tennis and canoeing competitions.