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12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Alanya

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 13, 2023

Author Jess Lee lives in Turkey and has traveled extensively in Turkey's Mediterranean region around Alanya researching and writing for travel guidebooks.

Alanya is best known for its beaches. The sandy strips in town itself, and strung along the surrounding coast, are all about laid-back resort vacations and are usually packed out by a clientele of northern Europeans from June through August.

VIew over Alanya Harbor

There's more to Alanya than its shore though. The high cliff of the peninsula is home to an ancient castle district, all surrounded by well-preserved, sturdy stone walls.

Down at the harbor, more historical remnants survive, looming over a bay where yachts sit ready to whisk you out onto the sea.

Alanya is also within day-tripping distance of some of this Mediterranean region's most well-known ancient sites and tourist attractions, so if you want to brush off the sand for the day and head out to explore, there is plenty to keep you occupied off the beach.

As well as the places mentioned on this list, you can easily also make day trips to Antalya to visit its museum and stroll its old town district, Aspendos (Turkey's most famous Roman Theater), and other major archaeological sites near Antalya such as Perge.

For some ideas on how to plan your trip check out our list of the top places to visit and things to do in Alanya

1. Explore Alanya Castle

2. delve into alanya harbor's history, 3. ride alanya teleferik, 4. boat trips, 5. soak up the sun on cleopatra beach, 6. go underground at dim cave, 7. day trip to side, 8. rafting & sightseeing in köprülü canyon, 9. check out alanya's eastern beach, 10. swim at sapadere canyon, 11. visit syedra, 12. discover anemurium, map of things to do in alanya, best time to visit alanya.

Alanya Castle walls

Highlights: Explore, and take in the panoramic views from, the hilltop home of Alanya's historic core

The six-kilometer stretch of ancient walls of Alanya Castle trail along the high promontory that shadows the modern sprawl of Alanya below. Inside the walls is Alanya's old town district, the most interesting area of the city to explore.

Alanya Castle's history dates back to the Classical era, when this craggy, cave-riddled peninsula was a favorite haunt for pirates.

The Greek-built fortifications were extended under Roman rule but it was during the Byzantine era that Alanya's role as a Mediterranean seaport began to take off.

When the Seljuk's took control of this region in the 13th century, they built on the foundations of previous rulers. Much of the remaining building works still standing today in the castle area date from this period, when Alanya became a commercial hub.

The lower castle area, nearest to the entrance gate, is known as the Ehmedek neighborhood. Wander the alleyways of red-roofed Ottoman-era houses and historical buildings here, then follow the winding lanes up to the Iç Kale (the castle's inner fortress) for older Seljuk and Byzantine ruins plus views that soar across the sea, the coastal plateau, and the peaks of the Taurus Mountains beyond.

Red Tower

Highlights: Stroll this ancient port's defensive walls from the Red Tower to the Tersane

Harbor-side, both the Red Tower (Kızılkule) and Seljuk Shipyard (Tersane) are extensions of Alanya castle fortifications, built in the 13th century.

The octagonal, 30-meter-high Red Tower served as the harbor's defense tower in the Seljuk era. Inside, there are exhibits on the Red Tower's and Alanya's history, but you're really here to climb up to the roof for great views across the harbor front.

From the tower, a pretty walkway runs along the harbor's original fortification walls to Turkey's only remaining example of a Seljuk-era shipyard. The arched halls here, built into the shorefront, are open to the sea, so that waves constantly pummel the stone.

The walkway continues from here for a short length along the coastline to a small Seljuk-era watchtower building.

Address: Rıhtım Caddesi, Çarsı, Alanya

Teleferik heading to Cleopatra Beach

Highlight: Views over the craggy cliffs meeting the sea below on this scenic trip to the castle

The most scenic way to reach the Alanya Castle area is by hopping on the Alanya Teleferik (cable car) that connects Cleopatra Beach with the lower castle district of Ehmedek. The cable car operates between 11am and 9pm daily, and the trip over the cliff is great for capturing sunset coastal views, as well as a means of transport.

The 900-meter ride offers excellent views over the forested cliff face leading up to the castle, the yawning strip of Cleopatra Beach's sand and Mediterranean Sea below, as well as the dusky mountains in the distance.

The lower station is just behind the beachfront, while the upper station deposits you just outside Alanya Castle's main gate from where you can wander farther up the slope to explore the historic buildings and ruins.

Address: lower station, Güzelyalı Caddesi, Alanya

Tour boat in Alanya Harbor

Highlights: Take to the sea for easygoing sightseeing with added swimming and sunbathing

From around May to October plenty of tour boats depart from Alanya Harbor for day-long trips around the dramatic rocky headland, visiting the sea caves where pirates once hid, along with anchoring off the coast for plenty of swim stops.

The main sea caves visited by the boats are Pirate Cave and Damlatas Cave, though depending on the boat, several others can be visited, including Fosforlu Cave and Lovers' Cave.

Trips vary hugely in quality. Some boats are basically dedicated party trips, so make sure to check out the operators before departure and get recommendations from your hotel. In general, the smaller boats are usually a better option if you don't want an onboard disco.

For a shorter trip, opt for a sunset sail around the harbor.

Cleopatra Beach

Highlight: Alanya's premier stretch of sand for beach-goers

For many visitors, a vacation in Alanya will always be about the beach.

The sandy shores, rimmed by resorts, trail the stretch of coastline between Side and Alanya.

In Alanya itself, the main strip of sand is Cleopatra Beach, which sits on the western side of town, separated from downtown Alanya by the rocky, forested slope of the castle promontory.

This stretch of white sand offers easygoing days of swimming and sunbathing with excellent facilities on hand for a full day at the beach.

In the July and August peak season, the beach can get packed. Come in late spring or early fall, though, when the weather here is still sunny and warm, and you'll find this strip of sand surprisingly uncrowded.

Address: Güzelyalı Caddesi, Alanya

Dim Cave

Highlight: Delve deep into the underground depths to cool off from the summer heat

Just a short hop from Alanya (heading 11 kilometers inland), Dim Cave is hollowed out of the western slope of Mount Cebel-i Reis in the Taurus Mountains.

This cavern is Turkey's second biggest cave open to visitors, with a walkway running for 360 meters into the cave, heading downwards into the depths for 17 meters below the surface entrance.

The limestone interior is littered with giant stalactite and stalagmite formations, all the way down to the lagoon at the cave's lowest level.

Bring a jacket or pullover with you, as you'll need it once you're within the cave; it's chilly in here even in the height of summer.

The cave entrance area, with its café, has brilliant views of the coastal plateau below.

Address: Dim Mağarası Yolu, Alanya

Temple of Apollo ruins at Side

Highlights: Climb up to the top seating tier of Side's Roman Theater, then photograph the harborfront columns of the Temples of Apollo and Athena

The ancient ruins scattered around the small town of Side are only 64 kilometers to the northwest of Alanya so can be easily visited as a day trip.

Side is a small but busy waterfront resort with a very touristy bazaar area winding through the old town district that leads down to a harborfront area.

There are plenty of cafés and restaurants strung out along the shore here, so if you're planning on ticking off Aspendos as well on your day trip, this is the best place to stop for lunch.

The main area of ancient ruins is just opposite the inland entrance to Side's old town district. This is where you'll find Side's imposing 2nd-century Roman Theater , which holds seating for up to 20,000 spectators. This is one of Turkey's most remarkably well-preserved Roman theaters and the town's most dramatic tourist attraction.

Don't miss visiting Side Museum , which is set in a Roman bathhouse across the road from the theater entrance.

Afterwards, make sure to explore the rambling area of ruins incorporating the Agora and the Temple of Tyche that sits just to the east of the theater.

Once you've wandered through this archaeological site, head into the old town itself and stroll up to the harbor.

Sitting right on the waterfront are the remaining pillars and columns of the Temples of Apollo and Athena, overlooking the sea.

Oluk Bridge, Köprülü Canyon

Highlights: Add some adventure to your trip with a thrilling rafting ride in this deep canyon

Köprülü Canyon National Park is about 120 kilometers to the north of Alanya. It's primarily known as one of the best places to visit in the region for rafting trips, which take place on the icy-blue river that winds through the canyon, but for more things to do, the area is also home to Roman ruins and plenty of hiking opportunities.

Selge is the main Roman archaeological site in the area. The remnants of this once thriving city of 20,000 sit amid the lonely village of Altınkaya, 11 kilometers northwest of the canyon itself. The large Roman Theater, cut into the hillside and looming over the modern village houses, is well worth a visit here, despite the theater being partially destroyed.

In the canyon itself, several tour companies run rafting trips along the Köprü River. The trips traverse the most scenic section of the river, heading under the Roman-built Oluk Bridge, which dates back to the 2nd century.

The canyon is 14 kilometers long, with its walls soaring up to 400 meters high in places.

If rafting isn't your thing, there are several cafés and restaurants strung along the river shore for relaxing and admiring the canyon scenery.

For hikers, there are a number of trails in the canyon area ranging from hikes up to the 2,504-meter summit of Mount Bozburun to a two-hour hike following a Roman road.

View to the Tersane from the northern end of Portakal Beach

Highlight: Long sweep of sand rimming the southern edge of the city

Cleopatra Beach very rightly gets all the glory, but if you want a change of beach scene, Alanya does have another strip of sand.

Running southeast from Alanya harbor is the long shingle and sand shoreline of Portakal Beach, which trails along the city edge for around four kilometers, becoming known as Tosmur Beach at the very southeast end of Alanya, where the Dim River exits out into the sea.

Portakal and Tosmur are backed by plenty of hotels and restaurants, and some beach clubs have also staked a patch along the beach length, offering sun loungers with shades, and waiter service for refreshments and food on the beach.

Other facilities here include changing cabins and freshwater showers, and lifeguards patrol the sand during the summer season.

Because of the beach's length, even in the height of summer there's always plenty of space for everyone, but if you're seeking peace and quiet on this strip, head to the southeast end, which always has fewer beachgoers.

Note that it's very stony when entering the sea here, so wearing water shoes is a very good idea, particularly for children and anyone with soft soles.

Address: Ahmet Tokuş Bulvarı

Waterfall and swimming hole in Sapadere Canyon

Highlights: Scenic countryside trips and a cooling dip during the height of the summer heat

Sapadere Canyon, on the outskirts of the small village of Sapadere, is an easy trip from Alanya, sitting just 20 kilometers inland from the city. From May to October, plenty of tour operators in Alanya run daily jeep tours to Sapadere Canyon, which are good for travelers who want to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Although small, only stretching for 800 meters in length, Sapadere Canyon is squeezed between high walls that reach up to 400 meters high. This gives the canyon a cooler climate than along the coast and makes it an extremely popular destination in the height of summer.

A walkway leads through the canyon, passing a few shady cafés, where you can relax and enjoy the canyon environment.

At the bottom of the canyon is a small lagoon and waterfall. Most people come to swim here in the cold, blue-green water of the lagoon and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Ancient ruins at Syedra

Highlight: Explore crumbling ancient remnants far from the crowds

To head to an ancient ruin far away from the tour bus crowds, check out Ancient Syedra.

Even in the height of the tourist season, you are likely to be the only visitors at this atmospheric, lonely ruin, which sits high on a hilltop overlooking the coast, only 22 kilometers south of Alanya.

Abandoned completely in the 13th century, Syedra's settlement history stretches right back to the 7th century BCE. Its most important era, though, was during the Roman period, when this site rose to prominence because of its coastal position. Most of the buildings still visible today date from that era.

Make sure to wander the colonnaded street and explore the Roman baths complex, gymnasium, and temple, which are the site's best-preserved features.

With more time, check out Syedra's church and an olive oil workshop, which both date from the city's later Byzantine era.

Address: Seki Köyü, off Antalya-Mersin Highway

Amphitheater at the Anemurium ruins

Highlight: Sprawling Roman and Byzantine ruins perched behind a sandy strip of shore

The vast, rambling ruins of Anemurium are one of the southern Mediterranean region's most fascinating sites but only get a smidge of the visitors that other archaeological sites receive.

The ruins sit alongside a long stretch of beach, just north of the town of Anamur, 117 kilometers south of Alanya.

The coastal highway leading here is very twisty in sections, so if you've hired a car for a day trip here, start out early to make sure you're not driving back in the dark.

Anemurium's ruins are a mix of Roman and Byzantine building works. They include a massive necropolis area, a 4th-century basilica church, a 3rd-century baths complex, and a well-preserved Odeon (small theater), all wrapped within city walls that trail along the hillside.

Bring your swimsuit so that after exploring the ruins, you can take a dip in the sea.

Address: Anamur, off Antalya-Mersin Highway

The best time to visit Alanya if you're here specifically for its resort life and beach activities are the months of June, July, August, and September when the tourism season kicks into high gear.

In the peak season months of July and August, the average temperature is 28 degrees Celsius, ranging between 21 and 31 degrees, and the weather is reliably sunny and humid. Sea temperatures are normally 27 degrees during July, August, and September, while if you've opted to arrive early in summer to beat the crowds, they hover around 24 degrees through June.

If you're coming to Alanya to spend more time exploring the nearby glut of ancient cities and historic sites than hitting the beach, you'll probably prefer the milder spring months of April and May or the late fall month of October for all that rambling around ruins. Make sure to include some wet-weather gear in your packing, as all three months usually bring seven to nine days of rain.

Average temperatures in April and May range between 16 and 20 degrees (and during October: 20 degrees) and traveling during these two spring months brings the added bonus of Turkey's wildflower season carpeting the hillsides.

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15 Best Things to Do in Alanya (Turkey)

This sleek resort is squeezed against the Gulf of Antalya by the dark slopes of the Taurus Mountains.

The scenery is defined by a 250-metre-high promontory, sticking out into the Mediterranean and fortified since time immemorial.

In Alanya, your days will be spent lazing on an enticing beach and adventuring through those lofty castle ruins, which can be reached by a cable car that opened in 2017. This is one of a few projects that have helped turn Alanya into a 21st century beach resort.

The city is also a jumping off point for scuba diving, cruises and trips into the Taurus Mountains where you can hike in canyons, explore caves and bathe in cool mountain streams.

1. Alanya Castle

Alanya Castle

The city’s steep peninsula, protected on three sides by the Mediterranean, is topped by a 13th-century castle with 6.5 kilometres of fortified walls.

This rocky mass is a natural defence, and today’s castle was built on earlier Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine enclosures.

In all there are 83 towers and 140 towers in the walls, and many of the 1,200 original cisterns continue to fulfil their original role.

Alanya Castle is one massive archaeological site that warrants hours of exploration.

The starting point has to be the citadel or Kale on the southwest side, where you’ll come to the Byzantine Church of St George, later adapted as a mosque.

The north side of the promontory is the scene of the Seljuk Ehmedek Fortress, built on Hellenistic vestiges and holding a military garrison, arsenal and Sultan’s treasury for hundreds of years.

Here you’ll discover countless ruins, together with historic 19th-century houses that went up after the castle had lost its defensive purpose.

2. Red Tower (Kızılkule)

Red Tower

Alanya’s emblem is a 13th-century Seljuk defensive tower, getting its name from the red brick that makes up the structure’s upper storey and parapet.

The Red Tower has an octagonal footprint and climbs to 33 metres with marble blocks on its lower walls.

This rare piece of Medieval defensive architecture was constructed to protect Alanya’s harbour and shipyard, and greeted people’s arrival to the city for many centuries.

There’s a cistern inside, still able to collect rainwater, and you can make out the historic siege-repelling murder holes, through which boiling water and pitch would be dropped on helpless invaders.

On the first floor is a small ethnographic museum with tools and handicrafts reflecting the Turkmen culture in the Taurus Mountains.

3. Kleopatra Beach

Kleopatra Beach

Starting at the western foot of that promontory is Alanya’s main beach, a long gentle arc of coarse sand bathed by low-to-moderate surf.

Kleopatra Beach is wide, tapering only a little the further north you go, and gives you unbroken views of the castle and the brooding mass of the Taurus Mountains.

There are beach clubs with sun loungers at intervals along the beach, and between the sand and Atatürk Boulevard is a wide promenade, blessed with those same panoramas, under swaying palms and buffered from the street by a strip of greenery with playgrounds and flowerbeds.

4. Alanya Teleferik

Alanya Teleferik

On the east side of the beach is the lower station for a cable car that opened in summer 2017, whisking you up to the castle promontory.

The Alanya Teleferik climbs 250 metres on a 900-metre line, and one of its 14 gondolas will depart every 19 seconds.

On board you’ll be treated to astonishing 360° views, out over the Gulf of Antalya, across the resort and beyond to the Taurus Mountains.

When we wrote this article in March 2019 a round trip was 28TL (about $4.50). Sunset is of course a great time to make the journey, and from street level the gondolas are lit in green and blue at night.

5. Sapadere Kanyonu

Sapadere Kanyonu

It’s impossible not to be awed by Taurus Mountains, and if you want to break out and experience this stirring landscape your best bet is the Sapadere Canyon, about 40 kilometres northeast of Alanya.

The temperature is a few degrees lower in the mountains, and something that will strike you right away is the lack of humidity.

On GetYourGuide.com there’s a seven hour tour taking you into the mountains for a trek via 750 metres of wooden walkways along the gnarled walls of the gorge, past waterfalls with bracing, clear pools that you can bathe in.

Afterwards you’ll stop at Sapadere village for lunch and to see rural life in the Antalya Province up close.

6. Damlataş Cave

Damlataş Cave

In 1948 when Alanya’s peninsula was being quarried for stone for the harbour, workers stumbled upon a cave brimming with stalagmites and stalactites.

At the foot of a stairway, the Damlataş Cave is 50 metres long and up to 15 metres high, and those bizarre concretions are carefully illuminated.

Now, something to note about the chamber is its high humidity (96%), elevated carbon dioxide and constant temperature of 22°C.

This might put off some visitors, but since it was first discovered the Damlataş Cave has been hailed for its therapeutic effects for people with respiratory complaints.

Tens of thousands of asthma sufferers visit each year, and take a 21-day treatment course involving four hours in the cave each day.

Their slot is 06:00-10:00, before the cave opens to the wider public.

7. Alanya Harbour (Limani)

Alanya Harbour

Alanya’s port for tourist cruises and diving excursions is defended to the south by Kızılkule, and is as good a place as any to potter around and see where your curiosity takes you.

Along the water there’s a promenade, hemmed by gardens with palms, lawns and topiaries.

There are lots of spaces to just park up and soak up the views out to sea, down to the castle or up to the Taurus Mountains, a constant, imposing presence all along the coast.

You’ll never be far from a cafe for a hit of Turkish coffee, and for the best views you can walk along the harbour’s south arm to ponder Alanya and its mountainous hinterland.

8. Alanya Archaeological Museum

Alanya Archaeological Museum

In ancient times, the surrounding region known as Pamphylia had a cluster of cities, many of which are compelling archaeological sites today.

So while you’re on the Turkish Riviera a visit to an archaeological museum will always be worthwhile.

Alanya’s is famed for a bronze statue of Hercules, dating from the 2nd century CE and just over half a metre tall.

Also on show are intact amphorae from the 2nd century BCE, coins going back as far as 700 BCE, an inscribed Phoenician tablet from 625 BCE and a 46-line letter by the Roman emperor Septimus Severus.

The museum also has an ethnographic section detailing local ways of life down the years, as well as an outdoor space showing ancient agriculture techniques, and funeral customs from ancient times through the Islamic era.

9. Alanya Tersanesi

Alanya Tersanesi

In 1228 the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Kayqubad I ordered the construction of this remarkable shipyard, facing east across the bay, just south of Kızılkule.

In Medieval times Alanya was the Seljuk Empire’s prime shipyard on the Mediterranean, and what remains is in great condition and open to the public for free along a wooden boardwalk.

There’s a row of five pointed arches, more than 55 metres long in total, and these vaulted bays go back 44 metres inland.

The shipyard was oriented east to get as much sunlight as possible, and is flanked by a mosque and guardroom.

Slightly back and posted on the rocks on the south side is a defensive tower once armed with cannons.

10. Dimçayı

Dimçayı

The Dim River weaves down the east side of Alanya from the Taurus Mountains.

As well as nourishing an abundance of vegetation on its banks, the river is wonderfully cool, even during the fierce heat of the summer months.

It’s a local family tradition to visit the river below the Dim Dam to paddle in its calmer stretches, come fishing and take a barbecue on the banks.

And catering to the many day-trippers are dozens of restaurants, many with shaded terraces on little wooden jetties or even on pontoons floating on the water.

Some of these river restaurants have pools, slides and diving boards on the river, and others will give you a fishing rod to catch your own trout.

Upstream from Dim Dam you can go rafting on a 5.5-kilometre course, setting off from Akköprü, and with lots of places to stop for a picnic on the banks.

11. Dim Cave (Dim Mağarası)

Dim Cave

On your visit to the Dim River make time for the largest cave system in the Alanya area, carved out by water over millions of years but only discovered in 1999. The Dim Cave is 360 metres long, and worthwhile for its many concretions.

Something to remember is that there are lots of steps and narrow walkways, so the Dim Cave isn’t accessible to all.

As with the Damlataş Cave there’s high humidity at 75%, although the cave does offer respite from the summer heat, with a temperature never rising above 19°C.

12. Alanya Belediyesi 100. Yıl Atatürk Parkı

Alanya Belediyesi 100. Yıl Atatürk Parkı

One of the things to love about this park is its location, right by the cable car station, tourist office, Damlataş Cave and archaeological museum, at the east end of Kleopatra Beach.

Within a few steps north along Güzelyalı Cd. there are dozens of places to eat.

As for the park, it’s somewhere to escape the heat for a few minutes, under a palm tree or one of the enormous ficuses.

There’s a mini-golf course, a fishpond, flowerbeds and pieces of public art like a ceremonious statue of Cleopatra.

This is also somewhere to witness Alanya’s affinity for its stray cats, which roam the lawns freely and have special wooden shelters and feeding stations.

13. Seyir Terasi

Seyir Terasi

To those in the know, the best panorama in Alanya can be had from this belvedere in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains.

By car or cab you can get up to the Seyir Terasi in under 15 minutes, and once you’re there you may not want to leave.

From this leafy vantage point you’ve got the best view of the castle’s peninsula, the tessellated white blocks of modern Alanya, as well as the harbour and the aqua-blue expanse of the Mediterranean.

There’s a telescope on the terrace and a cafe-restaurant above, and in the evening families will come to the park to light barbecues.

14. Alanya Boat Trip with BBQ Lunch and Drinks

Alanya Boat Trip

Of the many views to cherish in Alanya, some of the very best are from the water.

On a cruise departing the old harbour, you’ll see the castle, shipyard, Kızılkule and the Taurus Mountains through the eyes of a Medieval sailor.

The coastline in the Antalya Province is also fabulous, and there are three sets of caves within a short sail Alanya.

Occasionally on this six-hour voyage the boat will drop anchor and you can lie back on deck or plunge into the cool turquoise sea.

Cold drinks are provided and there’s also a barbecued lunch on board.

This outing is available on GetYourGuide.com .

15. Scuba Diving Tour With Lunch

Scuba Diving In Alanya

You may want to spend a whole day descending into the clear waters off Alanya.

This experience is open to divers of all experience levels, and includes hotel pick-up and boat trips from the harbour to two dive sites, with a cooked lunch aboard the yacht on the way to the second site.

Beginners are well looked after, diving in groups no larger than two per instructor.

Non-divers can also come along for the trip, and you can bring your own snorkel and mask, or rent them from the boat, and pass a carefree day swimming in the crystalline sea and sunbathing.

Book online : Scuba Diving Tour With Lunch

15 Best Things to Do in Alanya (Turkey):

  • Alanya Castle
  • Red Tower (Kızılkule)
  • Kleopatra Beach
  • Alanya Teleferik
  • Sapadere Kanyonu
  • Damlataş Cave
  • Alanya Harbour (Limani)
  • Alanya Archaeological Museum
  • Alanya Tersanesi
  • Dim Cave (Dim Mağarası)
  • Alanya Belediyesi 100. Yıl Atatürk Parkı
  • Seyir Terasi
  • Alanya Boat Trip with BBQ Lunch and Drinks
  • Scuba Diving Tour With Lunch

The Turkey Traveler

15 Exciting Things To Do In Alanya You Cannot Miss

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Alanya is one of the up-and-coming destinations along the Turkish Riviera and is starting to see more and more visitors flocking to its streets, desperate to see what all the fuss is about.

And it’s no surprise, there are so many things to do in Alanya, it’s a place that can keep any traveler entertained on their vacation. It’s certainly one of the most charming and alluring of the coastal cities we’ve been to, full of history, amazing beaches, and gorgeous nature.

If you find yourself wondering what to do in Alanya and are unsure of what attractions to add to your to-do list, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ve covered everything from ancient ruins to boat trips, and an indulgent Turkish Hamam, so you can make the most out of your trip to Alanya.

So without further ado, let’s jump straight in. 

Planning a trip to Alanya last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer from Antalya to Alanya:

  • Airport Shuttle From Antalya Airport (Best way to get to town!)

Here are our recommended tours in Alanya:

  • Sapadere Canyon (A must-do in Alanya!)
  • Pirate Boat Trip (Ideal for swimming and snorkeling)
  • Traditional Turkish Bath with Massages

Here are our recommended places to stay in Alanya:

  • The Life House Alanya (A quiet apartment near restaurants & where we stayed)
  • Ramira Joy Hotel (An all-inclusive resort right on the beach!)
  • Kleopatra Atlas Hotel (A great adults-only hotel in Alanya!)

Things to Do in Alanya

1. visit alanya castle.

Alanya castle

One of the sights any visitor to Alanya simply cannot miss is the incredible Alanya Castle . Perched high up on a jagged cliffside, this once imposing castle overlooks the sparkling deep-blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

From the minute you lay eyes on its crumbling walls, you know you’re in for a fascinating glimpse into the past. Alanya Castle was built back in the 13 th  century, under strict orders from the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, who wanted to have an important defensive structure to protect the city against invading forces.

Today, visitors can wander through the castle’s remains, including the citadel which houses the few remains of the once colorful mosaics, and of course, the iconic Red Tower which we’ll talk about in more detail below.

You can wander around the castle complex for free, visiting the bazaar, mosques, and cemetery, but you must pay to enter the citadel. Honestly, we didn’t think it was worth it to pay for this. The citadel doesn’t have many signs in English and the audioguide was short and confusing (that’s probably why it’s free).

2. Climb the Red Tower

view of the red tower alanya

As part of the Alanya Castle complex, located at the bottom of the hillside, is the iconic Red Tower. It was a vital cog in the castle’s defensive wheel so to speak, being both functional and mightily symbolic as time has gone on.

The Tower was used to store a whole host of weapons and supplies in preparedness for any potential conflict or invasion as well as being a great vantage point to protect the shipyard.

In its presence, like many of the amazing ruins you see along Turkey’s coast, you get an overwhelming feeling of what it must have been like for those who guarded the city and the coastline centuries ago.

Interestingly, the Red Tower is such an iconic building in Turkish culture that it features on the back of the old 250,000 lira banknote as well as being on Alanya’s city flag.

Top tip: Make sure to bring your swimsuit and towel, as the beach under the tower is a wonderful place to swim.

3. Sunbathe on Cleopatra Beach

view of kleopatra beach

Much like the spectacular Alanya Castle, you can’t visit this superb Turkish city without spending a day or three relaxing on the sun-drenched sands of Cleopatra Beach.

Not only is it one of the most beautiful beaches in the Antalya region , but legend has it the infamous Egyptian Queen Cleopatra used to frequent this stretch of Turkish shoreline, adding a further sense of historical mystery to its rustic charm.

Mark Antony, Cleopatra’s love interest, supposedly brought these golden sands to Turkey as a gift from Egypt. Even today, you can relax, sunbathe, and make sandcastles on the same grains.

The beach also features a massive palm-tree-lined promenade that is home to plenty of bars and restaurants which contributes to the city’s lively beachside atmosphere, especially once the sun sets. It’s what makes Alanya one of the best beach towns in Turkey .

4. Marvel at Damlatas Cave

Damlatas Cave

Accidental findings don’t come much bigger than uncovering a gigantic cave with two stories to it. Back in 1948, construction work began at a quarry nearby which was used for building and reconstructing Alanya Harbour, and what was discovered shocked miners. 2,200 sq ft of underground caves complete with hundreds of stalagmites and stalactites that have been dripping in place for thousands of years.

After being surveyed by geologists, Damlatas Cave was officially opened to the public.

In the years since its discovery, it is believed that the high humidity levels have contributed to the cave air curing asthma sufferers.

Every day between 6.00am and 10.00am, the cave is open only to asthma sufferers who visit in the belief the damp cave air will cure their ailment. Damlatas Cave is super accessible for visitors to Alanya with it essentially being right at the end of Cleopatra Beach, plus it’s so small you only need 5-10 minutes to see it.

5. Gaze at the artifacts of the Alanya Archaeological Museum

Alanya Archaeological Museum

If you are into museums then the Alanya Archaeological Museum is definitely worth a visit on your trip to Alanya. It may not be as large and as grand as some of the other museums in Antalya (in fact, there are only 3 rooms and a courtyard), but the artifacts on display are definitely worthy of coming.

Divided into two sections, one archaeological and one dedicated to the ethnicities and culture of the area, the museum contains a huge diverse collection of ceramics, metals, and mosaics from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods this region of the world is famous for.

Related Reading: Antalya or Alanya: Which is Better?

6. Explore Sapadere Canyon

best places to visit in alanya turkey

About an hour’s drive from Alanya city center is the natural wonder of Sapadere Canyon. Not exactly unique to this area, the canyon has been formed by water erosion throughout thousands of years.

The result is a spectacular 750m long canyon complete with its waterfall. There’s more than just epic scenery, the canyon and its surrounding area offer visitors the opportunity to hike the Sapadere trails, cross rickety wooden bridges (perfect photo opportunity!), and even swim in the ice-cold fresh water if you dare.

Tickets for the canyon can be bought at the entrance however you can also book to go on a 4×4 tour which stops off at the canyon.

7. See the dolphins at Sealanya

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dominika Mikušková (@dominika_mikuskova)

If you want something a little different to do that’s fun for all of the family, why not visit the amazing SEALANYA Dolphin Park? It’s home to a range of marine life including dolphins and seals offering a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures.

Like similar places, it’s not just watching them that is exciting, you can even get in the pool and swim with them. Naturally, these types of places have a bad reputation for the treatment and conditions the animals receive.

These fears are put to bed at Sealanya with excellent conservation efforts and education that is included in your experience.

8. Soar the skies in the Alanya Cable Car

cable car in alanya

If you’ve got a head for heights, then you’ll struggle to find something better to do than to take a ride on Alanya’s famous cable car.

It’s 900 meters of spectacular views, with the glistening Mediterranean Sea below and the gigantic Taurus Mountains in the distance.

You can catch the cable car right up to Alanya Castle where you will get a wonderful birds-eye view of the city and all of its important landmarks. Tickets for the cable car are about $8 USD or $8.90 for a return ticket. You can walk down but the price of the return is pretty much the same as a one-way so it makes sense to take it down as well.

9. Admire the view at Kursunlu Restorant

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kurşunlu Restaurant (@kursunlurestaurant)

In our opinion, nothing beats a tasty dinner with a jaw-dropping view. It’s the ultimate way to begin or end your holiday, and with the food just as good as the view, you will struggle to find a better restaurant in the city than Kursunlu.

The Kursunlu Restaurant is spread out across two floors, with the top floor being a shaded patio area that offers a serene, peaceful escape from Alanya’s bustling streets.

Visitors to Kursunlu can expect standard but delicious Turkish dishes including a diverse mix of mezze, grilled kebabs, and fresh locally caught seafood.

Don’t come to Kursunlu expecting a fine dining experience, this is very much a local place with a good atmosphere and good, simple food cooked right.

10. Indulge yourself with a Hamam 

If there’s one thing that Turkey is infamous for it’s the indulgent Turkish Hamam experience that you can have in traditional spas all over the country.

If you’re unfamiliar with what a Turkish Hamam is, it’s a traditional cleansing ritual that has been a part of Turkish culture for centuries. People come to Hamam’s to relax and unwind with elements of steam, water, and a deep massage spread across various rooms.

Cleopatra Bath in Alanya is one of the highest-rated Hamams in the region and provides visitors with exquisite facilities and the service to match.

Elegant heated marble, super soft towels and robes, and lusciously scented massage oils all contribute to giving you the royal treatment. Prices for Hamams depend on the package you choose which could include different priced treatments. 

11. Head underground at Dim Cave

Dim Cave

If you’re a fan of nature and the beauty that comes with it, then a trip to visit Dim Cave is an absolute must. The cave is one of the best examples in the entire country and 360 meters out of 410 is open to the public.

There are four chambers each with its name, Pamukkale, Organ, Chandelier, and Lake Hall. The cave is just a half an hour drive from Alanya city center itself making for an easy trip that won’t take up too much of your time.

This can also be combined with a tour to the Dim River valley where there are numerous hiking trails through pine forests and swimming points along the river. 

12. Travel back in time to Naula Ancient City

Naula Ancient City

If you’re a history buff, or you just like exploring all of the incredible ruins from eras gone by, one you should take a look at is the Naula Ancient City.

Just a short 10km drive from Alanya, you’ll be able to see the remains of what was once a thriving port city built just 200 meters from the sea.

Artifacts that have been exhumed in the vicinity date back to the Byzantine period and plenty of buildings can be identified including churches and even an ancient theatre.

Today, there’s not much other than the crumbling ruins but it’s worthy of exploration for sure. There are also several restaurants in the area catering to the tourists visiting, meaning you can stop off for a bite to eat before carrying on with your day. 

13. Pit-stop at Herkul Koprusu

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kamp ve Doğa Rehberi (@kampturkiye)

In today’s day and age, what’s the point of going on holiday if you can’t get a good picture to post and show how incredible your trip is to all of your friends?

Well, if this sounds a little bit like you and you’ve been dying for that perfect photo opportunity, you should be heading out to the picturesque Bridge of Hercules, or Herkul Koprusu in Turkish.

It’s a gorgeous little stone bridge that is unfortunately severely lacking in any real meaningful background information, but the rumor on the street is that it is 1,800 years old. Looking at the bridge itself, I can believe it too.

There is a quaint little picnic area with benches that overlook the river and bridge which makes for a perfect pit-stop on your way back from the Sapadere Canyon which is further up the hill. 

14. Visit the historic Alanya Shipyard

alanya harbour

Another interesting place to visit on your tour of the city is Alanya Shipyard. Dating back to 1228, it is one of the oldest shipyards in the Mediterranean and is the only shipyard remaining from the Seljuk period.

It was used primarily for building and repairing ships for the Turkish Navy and huge stone blocks were used for its construction. Looking at these blocks is remarkable considering their weight and the technology that was around almost 800 years ago.

Today, the shipyard has been turned into a museum which gives visitors a wealth of information on Turkish maritime activity and the history of the shipyard itself. 

15. Sail away on a Boat Trip 

boat tour from alanya

One of the most popular activities for anyone visiting Turkey’s Riviera is to jump on an Antalya boat trip and head out into the stunning deep-blue waters of the Mediterranean in search of hidden caves, schools of fish, and if you’re really lucky, dolphins.

Alanya, like most places along the Turkish Riviera, is an excellent place for a boat trip with plenty of tour operators all vying for your custom along the harbour.

Many of them run similar routes and itineraries so look carefully and decide which one you like the sound of the best. If you’re in a big family or group, you might even want to consider heading out on your own private boat.

All trips usually include lunch and snacks and offer pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or villa. 

Map Of Attractions In Alanya

To help you plan which activities to do and where, here is a map of these attractions in Alanya…

Final Thoughts

If you’re tired of typical tourist destinations in Turkey and want to see somewhere both beautiful and interesting, then Alanya is for you.

This enchanting coastal town boasts a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you breathless.

We hope this guide gave you some inspiration for what to do in Alanya and gave you a few activities to add to your list. Have you been to Alanya? What was your favorite thing to do there? Let us know in the comments.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

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Home > Alanya Turkey Guide – Activities & Best Things To Do In Alanya

Alanya Turkey Guide – Activities & Best Things To Do In Alanya

Post author Nicky

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Discover the top things to do in Alanya, a gem on the Turkish Riviera, renowned for its natural beauty and rich history. This stunning coastal city offers a treasure trove of experiences, from exploring the most beautiful beaches to embarking on captivating Alanya tours.

Dive into the heart of its culture with a leisurely boat ride, marvel at the ancient city walls, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of historical sites and natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Alanya’s array of attractions promises an unforgettable visit

Turkey Travel Blog_A Quick Guide To Alanya Turkey

The popular seaside resort, Alanya, is nestled in front of the Taurus mountains and is definitely worth a visit.

With beautiful beaches , vibrant nightlife, and rich culture, there is so much to do and see in Alanya – as a bonus, it is such a beautiful destination.

If you are ready for a great beachside holiday , here is everything you need to know for a perfect trip to Alanya, Turkey.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Things To Do In Alanya – Attractions In Alanya

Aerial view resort city Alanya in southern coast of Turkey

Rich in culture and history, there are so many things to do in Alanya. However, here are some of the key sights in Alanya, Turkey:

1. Take A Tour Of Alanya Castle

Castle of Alanya Turkey - Kizil Kule (Red Tower) in Alanya, Antalya, Turkey

This 14th-century castle is situated on top of a 250-meter hill and boasts stunning views of the city below.  Accessible by foot or you can take the cable car, the ancient ruins are one of the city’s most important monuments.

2. Marvel At The Archaeological Museum In Alanya

History buffs will love a visit to this top-rated museum, and it’s also a great way to get out of the sun for a few hours. Inside, you’ll find countless artifacts from the region’s history, with items dating back to the Bronze Age. The huge Hercules statue made of bronze is the museum’s central piece.

The museum is open all year around, although it does have shorter opening hours during the winter months.

3. Visit The Iconic Red Tower

The Red Tower in Alanya is the main site in the old city, and it is used in many depictions of the town, including the regional flag. Built in the 13th century, the tower was built as a lookout and defense mechanism to keep an eye out for any incoming attacks over the Mediterranean Sea. Today, it towers over Alanya and offers impressive views from the top of Alanya city below.

4. Ride Alanya Teleferik (Cable Car)

The very popular teleferik connects the main beach area with the castle and offers terrific views over the mountains and beyond. During the summer months, you might have to queue a little, but the service is very regular, so the wait shouldn’t be too long. The journey takes just over five minutes, and it’s well worth a ride.

5. Explore Maritime History At The Shipyard

Just next to the castle, you’ll find the shipyard, which has now been turned into an open-air museum to explore maritime history. The structure dates back to the 3rd century and used to be a base for the Seljuk Navy before turning into a vital trading point amongst the central Mediterranean countries.

6. Walk Through Dim Cave

Dim Cave is another cave system in the Alanya area. This cave is quite small, but it’s super atmospheric, which gives it an almost other-worldly feel.

Located in Dim Valley, you’ll walk to the cave through a forested area, which is wonderfully cool no matter the time of year. Around 360 meters of the cave are open to the public and fully lit so that you can see the stalagmites and stalactites inside. There are also four separate chambers to explore, along with a small pond.

7. Visit The Port & The Alanya Lighthouse

The port of Alanya is home to many important sites, including the Old Shipyard and its incredible archaeological treasures; the Red Tower with its Ethnological Museum; the historic Old Town district; and the lighthouse of Deniz Feneri.

Taking time to enjoy these sites and picturesque views out to sea is one of the best things to do in Alanya.

By night, the port also turns into the city’s party center.

8. Take A Jeep Safari Or Quad Safari

If you want to see the countryside around Alanya (highly recommended), then a quad or jeep safari day out is the best way to do it. You’ll find these trips sold by all excursion vendors around the town, and it’s a full day of off-road adventure, with several stops along the way and lunch in a traditional Turkish village.

This is a great day out for the family, but there is very little shade all day long, so remember hats, water, and sunscreen.

9. Enjoy An Alanya Boat Trip

Many boat trips leave Alanya harbor during the summer months, and you can book these from street vendors. Most trips take you to various stop-off points along the coastline, where you can get into the sea and swim before moving on to the next one. Lunch is served on the boat, and you can purchase refreshments all day. You can also book a pirate boat trip, which is ideal for families.

10. Visit The Ancient Damlataş Cave

Underground lake in the Dim cave next to Antalya

A short distance away from Alanya Castle, you’ll find an incredibly atmospheric cave – Damlatas Cave, where you can walk down to the bottom and admire the fascinating stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is also reputed to be useful for anyone who has asthma, and it’s wonderfully cool all year around.

Incidentally, this is the first cave that was ever opened to the public in the country.

11. Explore The Dim River – Dimçayı

This beautiful mountain river location is just a short distance away from Alanya and is the best place to get away from it all and enjoy nature.

Along the river, you’ll find restaurants that almost hang over the edge of the water, and they’re all covered in shady trees, which is ideal during the hottest months. You can also swim here, and the water is always a lot cooler than the air temperature!

12. Shop At The City’s Atmospheric Bazaars

Turkish Souvenirs - Best Gifts From Turkey - Carpets In Turkey

Each district in the city has its own bazaar, full of vendors selling local fresh delicacies, sweets, clothes, and souvenirs . The most famous Alanya bazaar is the Cuma Pazari, which takes place each Friday from early morning to 7 pm.

13. Enjoy The Nightlife Around Alanya

As a major tourist destination, Alanya has a vibrant nightlife with plenty on offer for all tastes. Bar Street is the main party hub in Alanya, a boulevard lined with bars and clubs where tourists and locals can enjoy the night.

  • Bars To Enjoy A Drink:  The Black Horse, Harem Cafe Bar & Aloha Tiki Bar
  • Clubs For Dancing The Night Away: Robin Hood, Club Summer Garden, Havana Club & Las Vegas Cafe & Bar

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Best beaches in alanya, türkiye.

Lined by the beautiful Aegean Sea, Alanya boasts many stunning beaches, including some of the best beaches in Turkey.

14. Cleopatra Beach – Kleopatra Beach

Sandy Beaches In Turkey - Cleopatra beach

A long beach named after the Queen of the Nile herself, Cleopatra Beach, boasts golden sand and an incredible ocean. Often crowded, due to its popularity, you can pay to rent sun loungers and enjoy food from one of the many restaurants and cafes lining the beach.

Damlataş Beach

This beach is located near the popular Damlataş Cave. With views over green mountains, azure waters, and even Alanya Castle, it’s no wonder this is one of the busiest beaches on the coast . For those who enjoy more adrenaline-filled days , there are many activities available at the beach, such as boat tours and water sports.

16. Oba (Orange) Beach

Stretching one kilometer long, this beach offers plenty of sun loungers and parasols, giving you a sense of privacy from beach-going crowds. If you feel peckish throughout the day, you can enjoy delicious food at one of the restaurants and cafes nearby.

17. Incekum Beach

A shallow beach, Incekum offers plenty of water sports for an action-filled day out. Of course, if relaxation is more your style, you can sit back and relax on the lovely golden sand.

18. Keykubat (Begonvil) Beach

Close to Alanya Center, Keykubat Beach is the perfect place to cool down after a day exploring the city. With many facilities nearby, Keykubat Beach is ideal for those who enjoy staying by the beach until past sunset.

Where To Eat Turkish Food In Alanya

What To Eat In Turkey - Turkish Food - Lahmacun

Turkish cuisine is considered some of the best in the entire world  and for a good reason. The rich spices , succulent meats, and stunning salads are a culinary treat.

While mezze is a popular way to enjoy the cuisine, there are also plenty of Turkish snack foods to try on foot, including lahmacun, pide, borek, gozleme, and simit.

As Alanya is a tourist hub, there is an excellent array of restaurants offering traditional food, fast food, and international fine dining.

Here is a list of some of the best in the area, depending on your taste:

  • Best Breakfast: Mado
  • Great Seafood: Alanya Balik Evit and Captain Balik Evi
  • Best Takeout Food: Derya Lokantasi or Flash
  • Great Kebab Restaurants: Kasikara or Kolcuoglu
  • Best Views: Panorama Restaurant and Soul of Kitchen
  • Local Eateries ‘Lokantas’: Mini Mutfak or Keskin Restaurant

How To Get To Alanya

Alanya is located on the southern coast of Turkey , in the country’s most touristic region. The region’s main airport is located in Antalya , around one hundred kilometers west of Alanya. However, there is also a smaller airport closer to the city, thirty kilometers away, at Gazipasa.

Both airports are served by international flights and serviced locally by public transport to the coast’s many resort destinations , including Alanya.

Where To Stay In Alanya

Depending on your taste, there are plenty of areas to choose from in Alanya.

Harbor District

Staying by the harbor district puts you in the thick of the action, close to bars, clubs, and restaurants while providing beautiful views over the Aegean.

Old Town District

For a traditional stay, the historic old town district offers charming homestays and boutique hotels.

Cleopatra Beach Or Keykubat Beach

If you prefer to stay by the beach, then Cleopatra Beach or Keykubat Beach are the best locations. Both beaches are close to the town and easily reachable by local transport or car.

Cleopatra Beach is also close to budget hotels and upscale beach resorts , many restaurants, and ample shopping opportunities.

Best Time To Visit Alanya

Alanya can be visited at any time of the year, but if you want to get the best out of it, it’s a good idea to go between the end of April and the middle of November. Outside of those times, most bars and restaurants close for the season, and it can be very quiet during the winter months.

Having said that, Alanya can be really peaceful and a great place in the winter if you want to get away from it all and enjoy the natural surroundings. The entire Antalya province enjoys mild winters, too, with some very warm days where you can walk around in just a T-shirt and jeans. However, the sea is very cold so swimming isn’t advisable!

Between the end of June and the end of August, Alanya is extremely busy and very hot. If you don’t enjoy crowds and heat, the shoulder months of May, the beginning of June, September, and October are great times to visit. The weather is still very warm, beach time is totally possible, and you’ll find accommodation slightly cheaper at this time, as the Turkish and European school holidays are over, meaning fewer crowds.

FAQ About Your Experience In Alanya

What is alanya known for.

Alanya is renowned for its beautiful beaches, historic castle, vibrant nightlife, and the stunning Taurus Mountains backdrop. It’s a favorite destination for sun-seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

How do you get to Alanya?

Alanya can be reached by air through two airports: Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP), which is about 45 km from the city, and the larger Antalya International Airport (AYT), which is approximately 125 km away. There are also bus services connecting Alanya with other Turkish cities, and it’s accessible by road.

What’s the best time of year to visit Alanya?

A: The best time to visit Alanya is between April and October when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the hottest months, while May and September offer more comfortable temperatures.

Are there any historical sites in Alanya?

Yes, Alanya boasts a number of historical sites, including the Alanya Castle, the Red Tower, and the ancient city of Syedra. There’s also the Alanya Archaeological Museum for history buffs.

Can you recommend any activities in Alanya for families with children?

Families can enjoy the Alanya Aquapark, visit the Alanya Gardens, take a pirate ship tour, or explore the Damlatas Caves. The beaches also offer many family-friendly activities, such as snorkeling, banana boat rides, and beach volleyball.

Is Alanya a good place for nightlife?

Yes, Alanya has a vibrant nightlife with a plethora of bars, clubs, and discos. The harbor area is particularly famous for its nightlife.

What language is spoken in Alanya?

The primary language spoken is Turkish. However, due to the tourism industry, English, Russian, and German are also commonly spoken.

Do I need a visa to visit Alanya, Turkey?

Visa requirements for Turkey depend on your nationality. Many travellers can get an e-Visa online before their visit, while others can get a visa on arrival. It’s best to check with the nearest Turkish consulate or embassy for the latest visa information.

Is Alanya safe for tourists?

Alanya is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as in any tourist destination, it’s wise to take standard precautions to safeguard your belongings and personal safety.

Are there any local foods I should try in Alanya?

Definitely! Don’t miss out on local specialties such as gözleme, a Turkish flatbread with various fillings, and fresh seafood dishes. Also, try the regional kebabs and baklava for dessert.

What type of accommodation is available in Alanya?

Alanya offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and all-inclusive hotels to budget-friendly hostels and apartments for rent.

With all this information in hand, you are ready for a great trip to Alanya, Türkiye.

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Must-see attractions in Alanya

Alanya Castle walls and coastline

Alanya Castle

Surmounting Alanya's rocky peninsula is its awesome, Seljuk-era castle, girdled by 6km of walls and awaiting Unesco World Heritage listing. Climb to it…

best places to visit in alanya turkey

A wooden walkway runs south along the old harbour's east wall from the Red Tower to the Tersane, the only Seljuk-built shipyard remaining in Turkey…

As you walk up to Alanya Castle, the road passes a turn-off for the village of Ehmedek, which was the Turkish quarter during Ottoman and Seljuk times…

Alanya Archaeological Museum

Refurbished in 2012, Alanya's small but excellently curated museum is worth a visit to see artefacts, including tools, jugs, jewellery, letters and coins,…

This striking five-storey octagonal defence tower, measuring nearly 30m in diameter, more than 30m in height and with a central cistern within for water…

Ömürlü Kemal Atli Cultural Centre

This carefully prepared ethnographic museum displays life as it would have been for Ottoman Turks in Alanya in the 19th century, over two floors…

Cleopatra's Beach

Sandy and quite secluded in low season, and with fine views of the fortress, Cleopatra's Beach is the city's best. Alanya's main beaches are also decent…

This large tower would have served as a coastal watchtower and arsenal during the Seljuk era. If you're game you can follow the walls from here towards…

Phosphorus Cave

The area near this cave is often used for a swimming stop by many of the excursion boats setting out from Alanya harbour. Despite its name, the glittering…

The İç Kale, or inner fortress, contains the remnants of a Byzantine church and the scattered ruins of cisterns. It's right at the top of the fortified…

Pirates' Cave

According to local tradition, a secret tunnel once connected this cave with Alanya Castle, allowing pirates to secretly spirit their treasures away. Many…

Castle Viewpoint

Enjoy this wonderful viewpoint looking across the city and Cilician mountains while walking up to the castle through the steep streets of the Tophane…

This bedesten (vaulted covered market) with a rectangular courtyard in the centre dates from the Ottoman era. For many years it functioned as a hotel.

Süleymaniye Camii

This fine 16th-century mosque, which replaced a Seljuk structure dating to the 13th century, is the oldest in Alanya.

Damlataş Cave

Close to Cleopatra's Beach and the cable car to the castle, this stalactite-studded cave has humidity levels of 98% and is said to produce a certain kind…

Ehmedek Castle

Built in 1227 to protect the Inner Fortress, this is the northern part of Alanya Castle and consist of three towers in two distinct parts.

Kuyularönü Camii

Kuyularönü Camii, renovated in 2005, is a an island of spirituality amid the bland knock-off designer-T-shirt shops and plastic-fantastic souvenir stores…

Akşebe Türbesi

The Akşebe Türbesi is a distinctive mausoleum thought to have been built in about 1230 for a Seljuk commander of the castle, though this has not been…

Lovers' Cave

Reputed to be an old pirates' lair, Lovers' Cave is often visited by local boat excursions, with braver boat passengers opting to dive from its 8m-high…

The Yeni Cami (New Mosque) sits across the road from a shady park on Hükümet Caddesi.

This stately mosque sits within the huddle of stalls in Alanya's Grand Bazaar.

Atatürk Statue

Every city in Turkey has its Atatürk statue, and Alanya's presides over the main street on the eastern edge of the central city.

Alanya's belediye (municipality) building.

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30 Things To Do in Alanya [with Map]  

Panoramic view of Alanya in Antalya

Alanya is a very popular resort town on the Turkish Riviera.

The town is 120 km from the center of Antalya and has its own airport. Well known for its beautiful beaches, resorts, nightlife, and nature, Alanya welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world every year. 

To help you get maximum enjoyment from the city, we have prepared this guide to the best things to do in Alanya.

Below you will find ideas about popular attractions to visit, ancient ruins to to see, and unique experiences in the region. 

Let's start with the best things to do in the city of Alanya and nearby districts!

Table of Contents 

1. Alanya's Landmark Red Tower (Kızıl Kule)

Red Tower in Alanya in Antalya in Turkey

The iconic Red Tower, where you can see traces of Seljuk Architecture, has been the symbol of Alanya for centuries. It's located in the historical city center, right near the Seljuk Shipyard (Tersane).

The octagonal building was built in the 13th century by Seljuk Sultan, Alaeddin Keykubad. When you look around from the top floor of the tower, the  view encompasses the walls, towers and the harbor that surround the peninsula.

  • Read More about the tower: Kızıl Kule (Red Tower) in Alanya

2. Cable Car to the Castle

Damlataş Beach Cable Car in Antalya in Turkey

Alanya Castle was built in 1221 by the Seljuk Sultan, Alaaddin Keykubat, who captured the city and had it rebuilt. 

You can take the cable car to go up to the castle. The cable car station is near Atatürk Park. You will need to walk uphill another 1 km to reach the entrance of the castle after exiting the cable car.

İçkale (Inner castle) is the top sight up there. It's an open air museum at the summit of the peninsula. Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman artifacts can be found in the inner castle.

When you go to Alanya Castle by cable car, you will come across the Süleymaniye Mosque, a Seljuk work renovated during the Ottoman period. There is also a covered bazaar (bedesten) behind the mosque.

  • Read this detailed article  about a visit to the  Alanya Castle

3. Damlataş Cave

damlatas cave in Antalya in Turkey

The Damlataş Cave is a 15,000 year old natural formation and is one of the mysterious beauties in Alanya located in the very center of the town just below the Alanya Castle .

The cave is fascinatingly beautiful with its very impressive illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. It has a  constant temperature around 22-23 degrees . The section, which has wide columns with stalactites and stalagmites, is 13/14 meters wide and 15 meters high.

  • Read More about Damlataş Cave in Alanya

4. Cleopatra and Damlataş Beach

Cleopatra and Damlatas Beach in antalya in Turkey

Both Damlataş and Cleopatra Beaches are blue flag beaches, located side by side on the west side of the historical peninsula. 

Damlataş Beach is on the shore in front of Damlataş Cave. As the name suggests, Cleopatra Beach is famous because of the legend that Egyptian Queen, Cleopatra and Roman Emperor, Antonius are said to have swam here.

The legendary Cleopatra Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, clearly worth visiting during your trip to Antalya. With its crystal-clear water and numerous water sport activities, it attracts about 2 million tourists a year and gets more and more popular every year.

  • Read more about Cleopatra Beach in Alanya
  • Read more about Damlataş Beach in Alanya
  • Discover all the best beaches in the Antalya Region

5. Alanya Archaeological Museum

Alanya Archaeological Museum (Editorial)

The Alanya Archeology Museum is located in the very center of Alanya, on Ismet Hilmi Balcı Street behind Alanya Castle and Damlataş Cave. 

Alanya is a city with a very rich historical heritage in every aspect. However, you don't have a lot of chances to visit a cultural places in Alanya.

Although the best cultural museum in the region is the Antalya Museum , followed by the  Side Archaeology Museum , the Alanya Archaeology Museum is the  best witness of the area's heritage.  It's located in the heart of the city.

The Archaeology Museum in Alanya exhibits bronze, marble, terra-cotta, and glass artifacts, mosaics and coin collections belonging to the Archaic and Classical periods, and also Turkish Islamic works of art from the Seljuk and Ottoman Periods.

  • Read more about the Alanya Archaeology Museum , including tickets, collections, and history

6. Seljuk Shipyard (Tersane)

Seljuk Shipyard in Alanya in Turkey

The Alanya Seljuk Shipyard stands south of the Red Tower. You can easily reach it on foot by following the 300 meter path.

The Alanya Seljuk Shipyard was built by the Seljuks in 13th century. If you are into maritime history and medieval buildings, make time to visit the only remaining shipyard in Turkey from the Seljuk Period.

The Alanya Seljuk Shipyard (Tersane) has been used for trade and protection purposes throughout history. Today, it stands upright back to back with Red Tower . The Alanya shipyard is the only shipyard that remains from the Seljuk reign, built in the first half of 13th century.

  • Read about the Alanya Seljuk Shipyard (Tersane)

7. Culture House on Castle Hill

Silk Worm Cocoon in the Culture House in Alanya in Turkey

This structure serves as Alanya Municipality Culture and Social Affairs Department and the  Alanya Castle Site Management Office. It's also known as Hamamlı Ev (Bath House) due to the historical bath on the ground floor.

This traditional Alanya house was built with quarry stone and a lathing wood system. It used grog and haired plaster, specific to the region in the early 20th century. It was restored according to its original form after it was assigned to the Alanya Municipality by its owners.

  • Check our complete guide to culture in Antalya  to learn more.

8. Jeep-Safari in the Taurus Mountains

Jeep Safari in the Taurus Mountains in Antalya in Turkey

Jeep-Safaris are among the most popular tours in Antalya.

Alanya is the Jeep Safari city in Turkey. There are more than five different tours available: Oba Çay Jeep, Sapadere Jeep, Dimçay Jeep, Taurus Mountains Jeep, and Jeep with Rafting... 

In add addition to the adventurous and fun part of safari, you'll get to know the marvelous nature in the region.

  • Read our complete guide to sports in Antalya

9. Spend the Day at Dim Çayı

Dimcay in Alanya in Antalya in Turkey

Let's take a break from the hot beach and go somewhere that looks like a beach, but is more refreshing. Here is a place that gives you the opportunity to chill while spending a nice time playing or just enjoying nature and artificial pools. How does that sound?

Dim River is one of the  most visited natural beauties in Alanya with its refreshing air and water in all seasons. It is located 15 kms from Alanya and accessible by different paths.

  • Read more about  Dim Çayı in Alanya
  • Read about the best National Parks in Antalya

10. Dim Cave

dim cave in alanya in turkey cover

Dim Cave is 145 km from Antalya and 11 km from Alanya, in the town of Kestel. 

Dim Cave stands out as a karst formation and creates a mysterious atmosphere. It's one of the countless natural beauties around Alanya. This place attracts a lot of attention from tourists who want to discover beauties around Alanya.

The cave is  located in the perfect place for nature walks, in the upper part of Dim valley . You can hike the valley, absorbing the fresh smell of pine trees and marvelous scenery on your way to Dim Cave.

Dim Cave is one of the most beautiful caves in Turkey . Its total length is 410 meters and a 360 meter section is open to visitors. The lightning system inside makes the stalactites and stalagmites very delightful all along the way. The colorful lighting creates a fabulous atmosphere inside the cave.

  • Read more about Dim Cave in Alanya
  • Discover more Caves in Antalya and tips for visititing them

11. Stay at a Beach Resort

beach resort in kemer in antalya in turkey

Alanya is a worldwide center of attention with a large number of beach resorts.

The İncekum region is sought by those who do not like the crowd of Alanya city center and want to have a relaxing holiday. Here, facilities are lined up along the beach like a set.

Avsallar has a unique 10 km long sandy beach where you can find various forms of accommodation, from all inclusive hotels to boutique hotels and homestays.

Konaklı and Türkler (Fuğla)  are some of the places close to entertainment and are the liveliest spots in Alanya. 

  • Discover our exclusive selection of resorts in the Antalya  region and book your stay now!
  • Discover the best things to do in Avsallar
  • Check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Antalya, Kaleiçi

12. Pirate Boat Tour

Pirate Boat Experience in Antalya in Turkey

Alanya was once a famous pirate harbor in antiquity. Pompeius, the enemy of Julius Ceasar, in the Roman Civil war defeated the pirates. Nowadays, pirate themed boats in Alanya's harbor are a reminder of these times long gone. 

There is non-stop entertainment on the cruises with music and animations, as well as many swimming breaks in the blue waters of the Turkish Riviera. 

13. Visit Alara Han and Castle

Entrance of Alara Han in Antalya in Turkey

Alara Han is on the Antalya-Alanya route, in Çakallar village in the town of Okurcalar .

Alara Han is a historical caravanserai built in the 13th century by the Seljuks. It's an exceptional masterpiece awaiting visitors seeking discoveries about the cultural heritage of Alanya.

The nearby Alara Castle was once a majestic fortress along the southern silk road in Turkey. 

You can book your trip to visit Alara Han and Castle, which is highly popular stop, from nearby resorts towns such as Konaklı, Avsallar, and Okurcalar in Alanya.

  • Here is our complete guide to visiting  Alara Han and Castle in Alanya
  • Discover the best  things to do in Avsallar

14. Day trip to Myra, Kekova, and St. Nicholas Church

Ruins of the ancient city of Myra in Demre in Antalya in Turkey

Myra is an ancient city located in the Kale (Demre) district in Antalya. It is especially famous for the Lycian Period rock tombs, the Roman Period theater, and the Byzantine Period St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) Church.

Saint Nicholas was a bishop in Myra, so the city maintained its reputation throughout the Middle Ages. 

Kekova is a small rocky island in Kaleköy and Üçağız near the Demre district in Antalya. It's the largest island in the Turkish Mediterrenean . 

The  Island of Kekova  and the  Sunken City , are some of the most visited places  in the Mediterranean. They are  unique historical places both underwater and on land.

  • Learn everything about St. Nicholas Church in Demre
  • Have a look at this article about the ancient city of Myra in Antalya
  • Discover Kekova Island in Demre with this guide

15. Side, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfall Excursions

Roman amphitheater of Aspendos in Antalya

You can plan a full day trip to see the ancient city of Side with the temples of Athena and Apollo, and the magnificent theater of Aspendos. The theater is one of the most distinguished representatives of Roman Age theaters today, with its well-preserved condition and architectural features.

If you choose to make this trip with an organized tour, it will be either combined with the famous Manavgat bazaar where you can find many things such as souveneirs, clothes, spices, fresh fruits, and vegetables, or the marvelous Manavgat Waterfall . 

The itinerary depends on which excursion you book. Some have Side, Aspendos, and the waterfall, some have Side, Aspendos, and the bazaar. The weekly market days of the Manavgat Bazaar also make a difference. 

  • Read more about the ancient city of Aspendos
  • Check out our shop for tickets to the best attractions in the Antalya region.

16. Nightlife at the Harbor

Nightlife at the Harbour in Alanya in Turkey

Alanya is a center of attraction for many local and foreign people; everything is shaped according to tourism.

The bars around the harbor become lively after 21:00 in the evening with crowds and rising music volumes until the late hours of the night. Robin Hood Night Club, Havana Club Bar, and Bistro Bellman Club are some of the popular entertainment venues in Alanya.

Check out our nightlife guide in Antalya and spend memorable nights in the best clubs, bars, and restaurants in the region.

17. Visit a Bazaar

Manavgat Bazaar in Antalya in Turkey

There are farmers markets and weekly organized marketplaces in almost every neighborhood in Alanya. Apart from fresh fruits and vegetables, you can find many things from clothing to spices, and bags to towels in these stalls.

Check out some of the famous bazaars:

Oba Bazaar: It's set up every Monday in the Oba district on Hacıkadıroğlu Street.

Friday Bazaar: It's set up every Friday in the Şekerhane District on Sinanoğlu Street. As the biggest market place in Alanya, it's possible to find fruits and vegetables, as well as clothing, shoes, glassware, and souvenirs.

Kestel Bazaar: It's set up every Friday in the town of Kestel in the Cumhuriyet district.

Hacet Bazaar: It's set up every Sunday in the Hacet district near the Hacet Mosque on Saraclar Street. There are mainly fruits and vegetables but you can also find various other things like clothing and souvenirs.

  • Read our guide to the best markets and bazaars in Antalya

18. Local Food

local bazaar in Alanya in Antalya in Turkey

Blend in with the city's crowds and hunt for fresh delicacies brought to the market by local farmers. Many products grown in the region are sold in the local markets in their freshest and most natural form, mostly directly from their producers.

Many products, from avocados to bananas, from oranges to strawberries, depending on the season, are displayed in the stalls with their vibrant fragrances.

  • We have a page fully detailed to food in Antalya and an article with the best local food to try in Antalya !

19. Shopping in Alanya

shopping in Alanya in Turkey

It is possible to find any item you might need during your stay in Alanya. Even if you just want to check out the local brands and escape from the heatwave, you can visit a shopping mall in Alanya. 

Alanyum Shopping Mall is located in the Cumhuriyet district on Keykuybad Boulevard and has many local and international brands. Another big mall is the Time Center in Konaklı. 

You can also check out the shopping streets close to the harbor in the center of Alanya to find different souvenirs.

  • Check the best shopping malls in the Antalya Region

20. Tandem Paragliding

tandem paragliding in Alanya in Turkey

The idea of sleeping a lot and sunbathing calmly to have a good rest on holiday has become obsolete by many people. There are many exciting activities that you can try in Alanya.

One of the popular activities you should try is tandem paragliding. Don't worry, this activity does not need any skills or experience as the professional pilots control everything.

All you have to do is enjoy the stunning view of Mediterranean Sea from above.

  • Read our guide to tandem paragliding in Antalya for a fun and exciting adventure.

21. Atatürk House

Atatürk House in Alanya in Turkey

The house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic and the first president of Turkey, stayed during his visit to Alanya in 1935, is open to visitors today as a museum. It's located in the Şekerhane neighborhood in Alanya.

Atatürk's personal belongings and photographs brought from the Anıtkabir Museum and Atatürk's telegram to the people of Alanya are exhibited on the first floor of the museum.

The second floor has rooms decorated with furniture reflecting the characteristics of the period. There are many ethnographic items that shed light on the daily life of the locals that lived in the region.

22. Visit the Harbor

kızıl kule- Red Tower in alanya in Antalya in turkey

You can start exploring the old city from the famous Red Tower and the Seljuk Shipyard right beside it. Discover the narrow streets where you can find cafes, restaurants, and many shops around the harbor.

Alanya Castle is located on a high peninsula, overlooking the sea. Above the shipyard is the historical Tophane neighborhood.

Apart from that, you can book a boat trip to take pictures of the Alanya panorama from the sea and explore many extraordinary caves, like Lover's Cave, Pirates Cave, and Phosphorus Cave.

23. Visit Sapadere Canyon

Sapadere Canyon in Alanya in Antalya in Turkey by Thomas

The  750 m long Sapadere Canyon in the middle of the Taurus Mountains will enchant you with its untouched nature.

Sapadere Canyon is located in the village of Sapadere, about 40 km from Alanya. It's   not possible to get here by  public transport .  You can explore Sapadere Canyon either on a  guided day trip , for example a  jeep safari , or drive there with a rental car and visit the valley at your own pace.

Guided day tours to Sapadere Canyon are one of the most comfortable ways to explore the impressive canyon. They usually include transfers, guide assistance, and lunch. Day tours to Sapadere Canyon can be found in our store.

On a Jeep-Safari excursion you get the chance to see the sights around, such as the old silk factory and Dwarfs Cave, according to the schedule.

  • Read more about Sapadere Canyon in Alanya
  • Full detailed  guide to canyons in Antalya
  • Discover National Parks in Antalya

24. Spend a Day at the Beach

Cleopatra Beach in Antalya in Turkey

Here, in Alanya are many marvelous beaches. A relaxing day on the beach is the time we all have been dreaming about for the whole year. 

Damlataş Beach is located on the shore in front of Damlataş Cave. Along with Damlataş Beach, Cleopatra Beach is also highly preferred with its 2 km long, blue flag beach and location in the center of Alanya.

If you are looking for a sandy beach, you can go to Ulaş Beach, which is five kilometers from the center. The beach on the roadside is especially preferred by many holidaymakers because of its picnic spot located on the rocky cape.

İncekum beach is mostly preferred by families with children and new swimmers, as it does not get deep very quickly. It's also known for golden sand that doesn't stick to body.

Oba Beach is approximately 1 kilometer long and is located on the east coast of the city center. The imposing slopes of the Taurus Mountains rise just behind this blue flag beach.

25. Rafting in Köprülü Canyon

Köprulü Canyon in Antalya

Spend a day at Turkey's largest rafting center in Köprülü Canyon. Köprülü Canyon National Park is 80 km from Antalya city center and 92 km from Avsallar.

Have you ever tried rafting on a boat that drifts along in ice-cold waters? If you haven't tried it yet, turn your attention to Köprülü Canyon. You will have the most amazing and refreshing experience available.

Köprülü Canyon is one of the popular attractions in Antalya and gathers hundreds of tourists every day in the summer. 

  • Read more about Köprülü Canyon in Antalya

26. Manavgat River Cruise and Bazaar

Manavgat River Cruise in Antalya in Turkey

Witness the unique beauty of the region by taking a cruise on the Manavgat River. You can book a full-day tour that includes the famous Grand Bazaar in Manavgat and an amazing cruise along the Manavgat River . 

You can enjoy the sun and cool off by swimming in the spot where the river pours into the sea. A barbecue lunch is usually served on board. You will be given about 1.5 hours free time in the center of Manavgat to visit the Blue Mosque and find various souvenirs from the Manavgat Grand Bazaar.  

27. Quad Safari in the Taurus Mountains

Quad Safari in the Taurus Mountains in Antalya Turkey

Those who want to add a little extra fun to your holiday with extraordinary activities, get together around Quad Safari tours. All you do is wear your most comfortable clothes and show up.

Everything will be covered in mud in a flash anyway, during the ride. Running through water and mud is part of the fun.

Tour operators offer pick-up from hotels in all regions of Alanya to take you to explore the magnificent nature in the Taurus Mountains on 4 wheels.

28. Diving and Snorkeling in Alanya

How to book Diving Trips in Antalya

If your interest in the mysterious underwater world has just begun, don't worry, there are many boats that organize diving tours in Alanya every day.

Join these tours accompanied by experts that provide the necessary equipment, so you have a great experience. Journey to a mysterious and fascinating world, where colorful underwater creatures roam around you.

  • Learn more about diving in Antalya

29. Horseback Riding and Hiking

Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking

Enjoy an unforgettable experience in nature in Alanya with horses, one of the oldest companions of mankind. It's an enjoyable and entertaining adventure tour with a small group, through the pine forests on the slopes of the Taurus Mountains with docile horses that move in the company of experts.

Many hiking tours can be found for those who find happiness in the greenery. Fill your lungs with fresh air while exploring many magnificent routes in untouched nature in Alanya.

  • Read more about hiking in Antalya

30. Visit the Ancient City of Syedra

Syedra Ancient Site in Alanya in Antalya in Turkey

Syedra is one of the ancient cities worth seeing around Alanya. It's  located in Seki village . At this site, you will see the remains of a typical ancient Roman settlement.

Syedra was a typical  Roman settlement with a lot of remains that have survived until today.

Among them, there are quite large rows of plastered cisterns fed by a natural water source, a baptismal cave, a magnificent bath with mosaic remains on the floor, a gymnasium, a colonnaded street and shops, a temple, a theater, churches, administrative buildings, an acropolis, and a necropolis.

  • Read more about  the ancient city of Syedra in Antalya

Here's a map to locate these things to do in Alanya.

(Link to the map)

Now, you are set to discover Alanya in the best way possible. What are some things you have already done or things you want to do in Alanya? Let us know in the comments below.

If you liked this article, mention it in the comments below and make sure to check out other towns and things to do in the Antalya Province:

  • Things to Do in Belek
  • Things to Do in Kaş
  • Things to Do in Kemer
  • Things to Do in Manavgat
  • Things to Do in Avsallar
  • Things to Do in Antalya
  • 100+ Things to Do in the Province of Antalya

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36 of the Best Things to Do in Alanya Turkey

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There are many amazing things to do in Alanya Turkey to suit every type of traveller. So, to make your Alanya travel planning easier, read on to see our pick of the best things to do in Alanya!

If you’re looking for a breathtaking vacation destination, look no further than Alanya in Turkey. Alanya is a beautiful resort town located on the Turkish Riviera on the southern coast of Turkey. It is situated in the Mediterranean in the Eastern Coast of Antalya Bay of the Anatolian Peninsula and its history dates back to antiquity. The very first human settlement in Alanya began in the caves and dates back 20,000 years to the upper Palaeolithic Age.

The town is blessed with natural beauty, lovely beaches, and clear turquoise waters, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. But there’s more to this city than just lounging on the beach.

Visitors to Alanya can also enjoy exploring the ancient ruins of the city and the many historical sites such as the centuries-old Alanya Castle, and amazing views and gorgeous scenery. Other activities and attractions include shopping for souvenirs in the colourful old bazaar and relaxing in and enjoying the view from one of the many restaurants and cafes.

So, what are the best things to do and activities in Alanya? Read on to see our personal recommendations and favourites based on over 20 years of travel to Phuket and our recent extended stay. 

Planning Your Trip? Use Our Favourite Resources Below!

Accommodation – We recommend Booking.com Flights – We recommend Skyscanner Tours / Experiences – We recommend Viator Car Rental – We recommend DiscoverCars Travel Insurance – We recommend SafetyWing

Did You Know?

  • Alanya is the warmest resort city in Turkey and as such, it is hugely popular for tourists due to its unusually long beach season.
  • Kleoptara Beach is the most popular beach in Alanya and legend says Mark Antony gave it to Cleopatra as a gift and even brought sand over for the banks of The Nile in Egypt.
  • The main attraction is the Alanya Castle which proudly flies the Turkish flag.
“Making the  mosque  of our time in Turkey.” – Anonymous –

Know Before You Go

If you’re from Australia,   you  DO  need a visa to visit Turkey . It is easy to do online, and we recommend using  iVisa . It only takes about 10 minutes and will cost around USD$40 for up to 90 days. Jonas didn’t need one as he travelled on his Swedish passport, but American friends of ours also needed a Visa to enter Turkey. You can check your country and rates  here .

Another ‘must have’ is  travel insurance . We are strong supporters of spending a little bit more on your trip and having some sort of  travel insurance  for any trip simply because you never know what may happen – whether it’s having your luggage go missing or eating the wrong thing and missing flights, or even needing hospitalisation. Our top choice is World Nomads and you can easily and quickly get a quote direct on their website .

How to Get to Alanya

To get to Alanya, the most popular and nearest airport to Alanya Turkey to fly into is Antalya Airport (AYT), which is located about 130 kilometres from the city. From the airport, you can either take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Alanya. If you’re taking a taxi, be sure to agree on a price with the driver before getting in the car. The drive from Antalya Airport to Alanya takes about an hour and a half.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to Alanya. The buses depart from the Domestic Flights Terminal and take about 2 hours to reach Alanya Bus Station. From there, you can either walk, grab a taxi or take a local bus to your final destination.

We have found Turkish Airlines to always be a great option for us and Pegasus have also been quite good. We recommend you check Kiwi , our favourite place to compare and find cheap flights.

Check All flights to Turkey Here

Getting around alanya.

Once in Alanya, there are plenty of transportation options to get around. The city centre can easily be explored on foot. The town is small enough that you can easily walk from one end to the other, and there are plenty of stops along the way to rest and take in the scenery.

For longer distances, visitors can take advantage of the city’s extensive bus network or hail a taxi (make sure they out the meter on). There are also several car rental companies located throughout Alanya if you prefer to have your own vehicle during your stay.

If you want to venture further out, there are also a number of tour companies such as GetYourGuide and Viator that offer day trips to nearby towns and villages. These tours are a great way to see more of the countryside and get an authentic Turkish experience.

Best Time to Visit Alanya

Alanya is a popular tourist destination and the best time to visit is between the months of April and October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for spending time outdoors and enjoying the numerous activities and sights in and around the city.

Alanya castle at night is one of the best things to do in alanya

Accommodation in Alanya

There are many accommodation options in Alanya to suit all budgets. For those looking for a luxury experience, there are 5-star resorts with all the amenities and activities you could want. For those on a tight budget, there are hostels and guesthouses which offer basic but clean and comfortable rooms. There is something to suit everyone in Alanya when it comes to accommodation.

When choosing accommodation in Alanya, it is important to consider what kind of holiday you are looking for. If you want a relaxed and lazy holiday by the pool, then a resort would be ideal. However, if you are looking to explore everything that Alanya has to offer, then a guesthouse or hostel in the city centre would be a better option so you can easily walk to all the attractions.

N.B. Booking.com does not work once you are in Turkey so we use Agoda for all our hotel bookings when travelling in Turkey.

Is Alanya Safe?

Despite being a popular tourist destination, Alanya remains relatively safe. However, visitors are advised to take precautions against the common scams such as insisting taxi drivers turn their meters on and having some small Turkish Lira notes on you at all times in case someone ‘doesn’t have any change’. Also, do your research before booking tours on the street as some are wildly overpriced. Visitors should be aware of your surroundings at night and keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Best Things to Do in Alanya Turkiye

No matter whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, exploring ancient ruins and Turkish cuisine, or active adventures, Alanya is a must visit destination for every traveller.

Alanya Archaeological Museum

The Alanya Archaeological Museum is one of the top attractions in Alanya. This museum is home to a collection of artefacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuk eras, amongst others, that have been found in Anatolian territories.  Displays include mosaics, bronze items, ancient coins, terra cotta figurines, marble statues, as well as information about the history of the area including the Alanya Harbour and Citadel.

The museum also has a garden, which used to be an Ottoman graveyard, with Roman-style columns and a bronze statue of Heracles dating from the 2 nd Century. Entrance is only 20 Turkish Lira. The Alanya Archaeological Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Turkey.

outside courtyard with old artefacts in Alanya archaeology museum - things to do in alanya

Alanya Beaches

There are many beautiful beaches in Alanya with exceptionally clear and turquoise waters including Kleopatra Beach, Alara Beach, Incekum Beach, Konakli Beach, and Portakal (Orange) Beach.

However, Kleopatra Beach is the most popular beach in Alanya. It is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by public transportation. There are also many sun loungers and parasols available for rent. Visitors can also find a variety of restaurants and cafes along the beachfront for a snack or refreshing drink.

Alanya Castle / Kalesi

Alanya Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Turkey making it one of the best places to visit in Alanya Turkey. It was built by Alladin Keykubat, Seljuk Turks Sultan, in the 13th Century to protect the city from invading forces. The walls of the fortress stretch 6500 metres and there was a total of 93 towers and 140 battlements within the walls.

This tower is the oldest surviving structure from the city’s Byzantine era. Today, the castle has several towers still remaining and a large courtyard.

The best (most scenic and easiest) way to reach Alanya Castle is by catching the Teleferic at the cable car station near Atatürk Park on Kleopatra Beach. The 900-metre-long cable car journey runs daily between 9:30am and 11:00pm, and the journey will cost 90 TL one way / 100 TL return for adults and 70 TL one way / 750 TL return for students.

From there visitors can explore the castle grounds, which offer great views of the city and surrounding coastline. The Alanya Castle Museum, an open-air museum at the summit of the peninsula with Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman artefacts, is open every day from 8:30am to 5pm and admission is 10 TL for adults and 5 TL for children.

Top Tip: Plan to do Alanya Castle early in the morning before it gets too hot. We also highly recommend walking down from the castle to the city centre as not only was the walk extremely scenic but it offers some amazing viewpoints. We especially loved finding beautiful old houses along the cobblestone streets, small shops selling their homemade goods and cafes and restaurants set in shady courtyards.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanya Harbour / Limani

Alanya Harbour is one of the busiest places in town and a great spot to watch the hustle and bustle. The harbour is also home to many private boats, charter boats and pirate ships which offer tours around the area. The harbour is also home to a large number of restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to take a break and refuel.

Some of the other famous landmarks in Alanya that can be found in this area include the lighthouse, the famous Red Tower and the Seljuk Shipyard. Above the shipyard is the historical Tophane neighbourhood which is located just below Alanya Castle.

Alanya Lighthouse

Alanya Lighthouse is located at the end of the pier in Alanya harbour. The lighthouse was built in 1226 by the Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubad I. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the city, the castle, the sea, and the nearby mountains.

alanya lighthouse with the town in the background-one of the best things to do in alanya

Alanya Shipyard / Tersane

Alanya Shipyard, also known as Tersane, is one of the best things to do in Alanya. This historic shipyard, built during the Seljuk reign in the 13th Century, is located on the Mediterranean Sea and consists of 5 arched docks, each of which are interconnected by a series of passages. It is said to be the only surviving shipyard in Turkey from the Seljuk Period. 

Inside you can learn about maritime history, navigation and the history of shipbuilding. Visitors can explore the shipyard, see some old ships up close, and learn about the history of this important maritime region.

Top Tip: Entrance fee is 5 TL or you can purchase a combined entry ticket for 30 TL which gives you entry to Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower.

old building with 5 arches for ships to sail into from the water

Anemurium Ruins

The Anemurium Ruins are a popular day trip for those visiting Alanya and are located 2 hours outside of Alanya in the town of Anamur. The ruins of the ancient city date back to the 2nd Century AD and were once part of a large Roman city. Visitors can explore the ruins of the necropolis area, Roman baths, 4th Century basilica, city walls, and even an amphitheatre.

Ataturk’s House Museum in Alanya

Alanya’s Ataturk House Museum is a popular attraction in Alanya. The museum was founded by Kemal Ataturk, the first president of modern Turkey, and is housed in the home where he stayed on his one and only visit to Alanya in 1935. It houses a collection of Ataturk’s personal belongings including his clothes, books, and photographs. Period furniture and other household items show how a wealthy Alanya family would have lived back in the 1930s.The museum also has a library with over 10,000 books on Turkish history and culture, as well as the history of Alanya.

The museum is located in the city centre and is open every day from 9am to 5pm. Admission is free for all visitors.

N.B. The museum is currently closed until 2023.

Ayayorgi Church (Hagios Geogios) Aram Evliyasi

The remains of the Ayayorgi Church (Hagios Geogios) can be found on the south-eastern wall of the castle. The building is said to have been built in the 6th Century BC and was taken under protection with the castle. The mihrab is located to the east of the structure with a domed top. 

The church was built during the Byzantine period on a 6-metre-wide square tower which belonged to the Hellenistic period. During the Seljuk period, the church was preserved and used as a mosque during the construction of the old city walls.

ruins of an old church with a domed roof

Beach Clubs in Alanya

If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun while on holidays in Alanya, there’s no better place to go than one of the city’s many beach clubs. Here, you can lounge on a comfortable chair or cabana, enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks, and take a dip in the pool when you need to cool off. Many beach clubs also offer other amenities like massage services, fitness classes and kids’ clubs, so there’s something for everyone.

Some of the most popular beach clubs in Alanya include the Havana Beach Club, Delfino Beach Club and

White in White Beach Club. No matter which beach club you choose, you’re sure to have a relaxing and enjoyable time.

City Tour Train

The City Tour Train is one of the fun things to do in Alanya Turkey and a fun way to get an overview of all the major sights in the city centre (perfect if you have kids). The total time for the tour is 45 minutes and covers a distance of 9 kilometres, at the cost of 30 Turkish Lira or 2 Euro.

It begins at the Alanya Pier (look for the red and white train as you walk towards the Red Tower). The places you will see include:

  • The Red Tower
  • Kleoptara Beach

Damlataş Cave

  • Alanya Mosque

a small red and white tourist train

There are many things to see and do in Alanya, Turkey, but one of the most unique experiences and places to visit in Alanya Turkey is to Damlataş Cave. Located right in the city centre, the cave is a 15,000-year-old natural formation and is an impressive sight with its stalactites and stalagmites. Once inside, the cave is 13 metres wide and 15 metres high and is easily accessed by stairs. The temperature inside the cave has a constant temperature of 22 to 23 degrees Celsius, making it a refreshing place to spend some time on a hot day.

This cave is home to a natural spring that has been known for its healing properties for centuries. People with asthma and skin conditions are said to benefit from the 95% humidity and high levels of carbon dioxide.

Entrance to Damlataş Cave is 15 TL or you can purchase a combined ticket for 25 TL (Damlataş Cave + Red Tower) or 30 TL (Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower).

Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or simply looking to cool off on a hot day, Damlataş Cave is worth a visit.

Top Tip: Purchase a combined entry ticket for 30 TL which gives you entry to Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower.

inside of a cave lit from below in yellow, orange and blue

Dim Cave / Dim Magarasi

The Dim Cave in Kestel, located just 11 kilometres from the city centre, is one of the best natural landscapes to see while in Alanya. This massive cave is said to be over 150 million years old, and is a great example of the area’s natural history.

Dim Cave is the second-largest stalactite cave in Turkey, and its total length is 410 meters with a 360-meter section open to visitors. A walkway leads you past amazing formations of stalactites and stalagmites which are beautifully lit up with colourful lighting.

The temperature inside the cave stays at a constant 18 to 19 degrees while the humidity is about 90%. This means that Dim Cave (like Damlataş Cave) also has beneficial healing effects on people with asthma. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, which lasts about an hour.

Top Tip: There are many stairs in Dim Cave Alanya, therefore, it wouldn’t be suitable for people with mobility difficulties.

Dimcayi / Dim River for Lunch

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a lovely meal while surrounded by breathtaking scenery, look no further than Dimcayi Dim River, just 22 kilometres up in the Taurus Mountains to the east of Alanya. This spot is perfect for a leisurely lunch with friends or family in a Turkish-style pergola located above the water. You can order traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs and meze, or opt for something lighter like a salad or sandwich. Some of the restaurants even have their own water park and sun beds, while others have waterslides directly into the river.

We saw many people taking a swim in the river but they were braver than us as the water coming from the mountains was icy cold (only 15 degrees Celsius)!

No matter how you choose to spend your time, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the river and mountains while enjoying some delicious food.

Top Tip: Avoid Sundays as it can get very crowded with locals as this is the da they spend with family.

Suggested Tours: Taurus Mountains Jeep Safari with Lunch at Dimcay River | Taurus Mountains and Dim River Full-Day Tour

There are plenty of things to do in Alanya, but one of the best activities is to simply stroll around Ehmedek, the historic centre of Alanya full of beautiful architecture and narrow streets. It’s the perfect place to explore on foot, and you can easily spend an entire day getting lost in its winding alleyways.

Kadiini Cave

Kadiini Cave, located 15 km northeast of Alanya, is a must-see natural wonder for any traveller to Alanya. The cave is located in the Kadiini Mountain range and is one of the largest caves in Turkey. It is believed to be over 12 million years old.

The cave was discovered in the early 20th Century by a local shepherd. He discovered it while looking for his lost sheep. As a result of excavations carried out in 1957, human remains dating back 5 thousand years to the Bronze Age and the Upper Palaeolithic era were discovered.

The cave is home to a number of unique stalactite and stalagmite formations which are three times larger than those on Damlataş Cave. The cave is lit up with colourful lights making it an even more magical experience. The area is a popular spot for rock climbers and picnic lunches.

Kleopatra Beach

Alanya is home to many beautiful beaches, but Kleopatra Beach is definitely the most popular. The sparkling turquoise water and soft sand make it a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. There are plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent, and there are also several beach bars serving refreshing drinks and snacks. If you get bored of lying in the sun, there are plenty of water sports on offer such as jet skiing, banana boat rides and parasailing.

a beach from above near a cliff with white sand beach and turquoise waters

Lunapark Alanya

Lunapark Alanya is one of the top attractions for kids in the area. The park is home to a number of rides and attractions such as a Ferris wheel, carousel and amusement park thrill rides, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops. Lunapark Alanya is centrally located and a must-visit for families as it is sure to please everyone.

Mecuddin Cistern

The Mecuddin Cistern is only one of 420 cisterns built around Alanya Castle, however, it is the most important at 22.5 metres deep and 13 metres wide. This underground structure was built in the 13th Century and served to collect rainwater and provide water storage tank for the city.

It’s a fascinating example of medieval engineering, and they still provide a large part of the water needs of the local people today.

Mint Building

The mint building are the structures located on Cilvarda Cape which is at the end of the peninsula and is composed of steep rocks 400 meters high. Although it is known as the Mint Building, no money was printed here. One of the small structures remaining with a dome roof is a church from the 11th Century. The other structures are thought to have been used as monasteries.

Nightlife in Alanya

The nightlife in Alanya is some of the best in Turkey. With a variety of bars and clubs to choose from, there is something for everyone. Visitors can start their night at one of the many beach bars where they can enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset. As the night goes on, they can head to one of the clubs which start to come alive after 9pm for some dancing and fun. Robin Hood Night Club, Havana Club Bar, and Bistro Bellman Club are some of the most popular nightclubs in Alanya. The party doesn’t stop until the sun comes up, so visitors should be prepared to stay out all night!

Old Bazaar in Alanya

Alanya’s Old Bazaar is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs and gifts in Turkey. The market is full of stalls selling everything from clothes, shoes, and bags to spices, hand-painted pottery and Turkish carpets.

Bargaining is expected, so be sure to haggle for the best price. Prices can usually be negotiated down to half of the starting price, so if the seller won’t agree to your price, move on to the next stall which is probably selling the same or similar product.

After you’re done shopping, take a break at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the market. The Old Bazaar is also a great place to people watch, as it’s always full of locals and tourists alike.

Top Tip: Copy goods are mainly sold at the Old Bazaar so pay extra attention to the quality of the products before you decide to start haggling over the price.

goods displayed at a turkish bazaar

Paragliding in Alanya

Alanya is a top destination for paragliding in Turkey. With its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder that so many people come here to take to the skies.

There are several companies that offer paragliding tours in Alanya, so be sure to find one that fits your needs. Most tours include a tandem flight with an experienced instructor, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. And when you’re ready to take the plunge on your own, there are plenty of schools that offer lessons.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or just looking for a unique way to see Alanya, paragliding is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Suggested Tours: Tandem Paragliding Over a Castle and the Sea | Tandem Paragliding Experience | Tandem Paragliding

Pirate Boat Trips in Alanya

Pirate Boat Trips in Alanya are one of the most popular things to do while in Alanya, Turkey. The trips are great for families or groups of friends as they offer a fun and unique way to see the sights and sounds of Alanya.

The trips typically leave at 10am and return at 3:30pm, and during that time, guests will be able to see some of the most popular sights in Alanya including the Red Tower, the Old Shipyard and Alanya Castle and its fortifications from different angles, and. In addition, you will see extraordinary caves such as Lover’s Cave, Pirates Cave, and Phosphorus Cave.

The pirate boats are large and spacious, and they offer a variety of activities and amenities for guests to enjoy. The boats also have a sun deck where guests can relax and soak up the sun, and some boats also include animations, and a foam party. We paid 15 Euro each which included unlimited soft-drinks and lunch, and 4 swimming breaks in the azure waters of the Mediterranean. You may even be lucky enough to spot dolphins or sea turtles.

Top Tip: Head down to the marina at about 9am and negotiate a deal for a trip that leaves at 10am. This was you will get a better price (we managed to get 50% off)! Also, we would recommend choosing your boat carefully. Most of the bigger boats are party boats and the music will be loud. Also, they are a lot slower and do not go as close to shore as some of the smaller boats. If we were to do it again, we definitely opt for one of the smaller boats!

pirate ship in a harbour lined up for yours

Red Tower of Alanya / Kizilkule Fortress

The Red Tower of Alanya, or Kizilkule Fortress, is one of the best things to see in Alanya, Turkey. The fortress was built in the 13th Century by the Seljuk Turks and has been well preserved. It is a great example of Seljuk architecture.

The fortress is octagonal in shape and is 33 metres high and 12 metres wide. The first floor has an ethnological museum with exhibits about the history of the fortress and is a great way to learn about Turkish history and culture. However, the top level has the most appeal with great panoramic views of the sea and the city. To reach the top, there are 85 steep stairs, but the views from the top are well worth the effort!

Top Tip: The entrance cost is 10 TL, however, we suggest purchasing a combined entry ticket for 30 TL which gives you entry to Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower.

old town harbour with ships in water

Sapadere Canyon

Sapadere Canyon is a natural wonder with its high cliffs, lush vegetation, and clear turquoise river which cuts a deep canyon through the mountains. Visitors can enjoy the 20-minute hike through the canyon on a wooden boardwalk to reach a waterfall, or swim in the refreshing freezing cold) waters. Or alternatively, you can simply take in the stunning scenery.

The canyon is a 40-minute drive from the city centre, and there are plenty of tour operators offering trips to the canyon. Visitors can also reach the canyon on their own by taking a bus or taxi from Alanya. Entrance to the canyon is 9 TL and you can get food and snacks at the various stalls and restaurants.

Top Tip: The best was to see Sapadere Canyon is on a tour.  The tours below include transportation, an English-speaking guide and lunch, and are stress-free way to spend 7-8 hours in the Taurus mountains.

Suggested Tours: Sapadere Canyon Full-Day Sightseeing Tour from Alanya | Sapadere Canyon Discovery Tour

Seyir Terasi

Seyir terasi is a viewing platform that offers stunning views of the cityscape below from the mountains behind the city. Here you will get perfect panoramic views of Alanya and its coastline. It is also a great place to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

Shopping in Alanya

Although Alanya is known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lovely city centre, it is also great for shopping! The city centre is full of small shops and boutiques selling beautiful Turkish souvenirs, clothes, jewellery, and more. You can find anything you need in Alanya, and the prices are very reasonable.

For those that enjoy farmers markets, you can find them in almost every neighbourhood in Alanya.  Apart from fresh fruits and vegetables, you can find many things from clothing to spices, and bags to towels in these stalls. Check out some of the famous bazaars:

  • Oba Bazaar:  Every Monday in the Oba district on Hacıkadıroğlu Street.
  • Friday Bazaar:  Every Friday in the Şekerhane District on Sinanoğlu Street. As the biggest market place in Alanya, it’s possible to find fruits and vegetables, as well as clothing, shoes, glassware, and souvenirs.
  • Kestel Bazaar:  Every Friday in the town of Kestel in the Cumhuriyet district.
  • Hacet Bazaar:  Every Sunday in the Hacet district near the Hacet Mosque on Saraclar Street. There are mainly fruits and vegetables but you can also find various other things like clothing and souvenirs.

So, if you are looking for a unique gift or something special for yourself, or simply want to experience a true local experience, definitely make sure to go shopping in Alanya!

Side, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfall Day Trip

Alanya is home to many historical sites and natural wonders. One of the best ways to explore all that Alanya has to offer is by taking a Side, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfall day trip.

The first stop on the tour is the ancient city of Side. The city was once an important trading centre and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the Temples of Apollo and Athena, and the Roman baths.

Next, the tour heads to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. The theatre was built in 155 AD and is still used for performances today. It is extremely well-preserved and clearly displays the architectural features of the Roman Age.

On the way back to Alanya, you will stop for a visit to Manavgat Waterfall. The falls are located about 80 kilometres from the city centre and they are a great place to take a break from the heat of the day. The falls are about 5 meters high and the pool at the base is a great place to cool off with a swim. There are also restaurants, cafes, and tea gardens where you can listen to the sound of water while you enjoy a drink or snack. 

Suggested Tours: Side, Aspendos & Manavgat Waterfalls with Lunch

ruins of a roman temple against a blue sky

Syedra Ruins

The Syedra Ruins lie on a high hilltop overlooking the coast only 22 kilometres from Alanya. This ancient city that was once ruled by the Romans, however, the city was destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th Century.

The ruins are extensive and include a temple, churches, administrative buildings, an acropolis, and necropolis. Also, there are quite large rows of plastered cisterns fed by a natural water source, a baptismal cave, a beautiful bath with a mosaic floor, a gymnasium, a colonnaded street, shops, and a theatre.

The theatre is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in Turkey and the baths are also well-preserved and show how the ancient Romans used to live. The temples are in pieces, but you can still see the ancient carvings on the walls.

Syedra can be visited every day except for Mondays, and visiting hours are seasonal i.e. Summer 8:30am – 7:00pm, Winter 8:30am – 5:30pm. There is no entrance fee to visit the ancient city of Syedra.

Top Tip: It is best to wear good enclosed shoes when walking around the ruins as the ground is quite uneven in parts.

Suleymaniye Mosque

The Suleymaniye Mosque was built in the 13th Century by Aladdin Keykubat. It was then rebuilt by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent using the old materials due to its collapse due to a lightning strike.  

Not only is it a monument of medieval architecture, but it still serves as a mosque today. The mosque has a large central dome and four smaller domes, and is decorated with beautiful Islamic calligraphy. Visitors can enter the mosque to admire its interior, but should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. There is a box with appropriate clothing at the front entrance to the mosque for tourists use.

Sandik Emini Kayhanlar House

Sandik Emini Kayhanlar House is a traditional Alanya house located near Alanya Castle and serves as a Traditional Handicrafts Centre. This beautiful house was built in 1889 and has been well-preserved. It is a great example of traditional Turkish architecture and features intricate hand-painted details.

Visitors can go inside free of charge and tour the house and learn about its history and culture. There is a herbarium inside with an exhibition on the “Examination of the flora and fauna species of Alanya Castle”. Here you will find 322 plants and 38 species of butterflies, 20 of which are endemic, exhibited. There are also clothes specially produced from banana fibre and Alanya silk by the famous fashion designer Vural Gökçaylı, one of the veteran names of the haute couture movement in Turkey.  

Taurus Mountains Quad / Jeep Safari

One of the best ways to explore the Taurus Mountains is on a Quad or Jeep Safari. This safari takes you on an adventurous journey through the Taurus Mountains where you will see some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Turkey.

Safari inclusions vary greatly so make sure you pick the right one for you! Most include pick-up from hotels, and a stop at a traditional Turkish village where you can learn about the culture and customs of the people who live there.

Top Tip: Bring sun glasses and a bandana as it can get very dusty.

Teleferik in Alanya

One of the best ways to see all that Alanya has to offer is by taking a ride on the Teleferik. The Teleferik is a cable car that runs from the cable car station near Atatürk Park on Kleopatra Beach, and drops you off at the Ehmedek section of Alanya Castle. The 900-metre-long cable car journey takes about 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the city, coastline, and mountains.

Once you exit the cable car, you will need to walk uphill another 1 kilometre to reach the entrance to the castle. Along the way you can explore Süleymaniye Mosque, a covered bazaar (bedesten) behind the mosque, and Sandik Emini Kayhanlar House, amongst other things.

The Teleferik in Alanya runs daily between 9:30am and 11:00pm. The journey will cost 90 TL one way / 100 TL return for adults and 70 TL one way / 750 TL return for students.

Turkish Hammam / Turkish Bath Experience

A Turkish Hammam is an experience not to be missed while in Alanya. A hammam is a traditional bathhouse where you can relax and detoxify your body. The most important part of the Hammam experience is the steam room, where you will sweat out all of your impurities. This is then followed by a full body scrub and bubble massage. For an additional charge, you can also choose to have a massage.

Prices vary enormously depending on your treatment and location. Shop around to ensure you not only get the best price, but also the best hammam experience!

Top Tip: If you intend of having the full Turkish hammam experience with a body scrub, do this on the first day of your holiday otherwise you may lose some of that tan you have worked so hard to get! Also, be sure to drink plenty of water before and after your visit to the Hammam.

room in a turkish bath

Whitewater Rafting in Koprulu Canyon

One of the best ways to experience the Koprulu Canyon is by white-water rafting. The canyon is home to the longest stretch of Whitewater in Turkey, and it’s a popular spot for rafters from all over the world.

The rapids in the canyon range from Class II to Class V, so there’s something for everyone. If you’re new to rafting, you can take a trip on one of the easier sections of river. Or, if you’re an experienced rafter, you can tackle one of the more challenging sections.

No matter what your level of experience, white-water rafting in Koprulu Canyon is an unforgettable experience. You’ll get to see some amazing scenery, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way.

Suggested Tours: Koprulu Canyon Full-Day Rafting and Canyoning Tour | River Rafting & Jeep Safari at Koprulu Canyon

FAQs About Things to Do in Alanya

The drive from Antalya Airport to Alanya takes about an hour and a half, and the Antalya to Alanya distance is 133 kilometres.

The top free Alanya things to do are the following:

  • Alanya Lighthouse – If you want to explore the history of the area through its landmarks, put this one on your must-see list.
  • Old Bazaar – Perfect for some people watching and see the local sellers in action.
  • Ehmedek – Stroll around the historic centre of Alanya with its beautiful architecture and narrow streets.
  • Kleopatra Beach – Keep your eyes open for exotic shells and other seaside gems dotted along the coastline here.
  • Suleymaniye Mosque – Admire the interior of this beautiful mosque.

The most popular Antalya Turkey tourist attractions are the following:

  • Antalya Archaeology Museum
  • Hadrian’s Gate
  • Kaleici Old Town
  • Lower Duden Waterfalls
  • Perge Ancient City

The 10 top things to do in Turkey are the following:

  • Hagia Sophia
  • The Blue Mosque
  • Topkapi Palace Museum
  • Grand Bazaar
  • Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia
  • Kaleici Old Town in Antalya
  • Kleopatra Beach in Alanya
  • Marmaris Marina
  • Goreme National Park

The best activities in Turkey are the following:

  • Turkish Hammam
  • Watch the Whirling Dervishes
  • Swim in the Pamakkule Thermal Pools

Istanbul Bosphurous Cruise

best places to visit in alanya turkey

In Summary – Best Things to Do in Alanya, Turkiye

If you’re looking for a beautiful and exotic location for your next vacation, with plenty to do, look no further than Alanya, Turkey. This beach town has something for everyone – from swimming and sunbathing to exploring ancient ruins.

Are you planning a holiday to Alanya? Have you done any of the things to do in Alanya listed above, or have we missed any things to do in Alanya we should add to this list? Post your tips and questions below.

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TRIP PLANNERS FOR TÜRKIYE : RELATED BLOG POSTS

Want more info to help you plan your Türkiye  holiday? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel in Türkiye  below and continue planning your trip.

  • TRAVEL GUIDE TO MARMARIS BEACH IN TURKEY
  • MARKETS IN MARMARIS
  • 45 EUROPE LANDMARKS TO ADD TO YOUR BUCKET LIST
  • BEST MEDITTERANEAN CRUISE PORTS

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Essential Travel Planning Resources for Turkey

Below are our favourite companies to use for planning our travels to Turkey. They consistently turn up the best deals and overall, are better than their competitors. These are always our starting point when we need to book a flight, accommodation, tour, transportation etc.

Book Your Flight : Our two favourite search engines for finding cheap flights are Skyscanner and Kiwi . They compare all of the available prices across every airline to help you compare flights in one place.

Book Accommodation: Booking.com and Agoda consistently return the best rates for guesthouses and hotels in Turkey. To find a budget hostel, our favourite site is  Hostelworld and Airbnb are great if you are looking to stay for a longer period of time with apartment amenities such as a kitchen.

Book a Tour: We prefer to travel independently, however, sometimes the best and cheapest way to see the highlights of a city / country is to book a tour or package. For Turkey, we always use GetYourGuide  and  Viator for our tour bookings. If we are only going to be in a city for a day or two and want to make the most of our time there, we book through Big Bus Tours .

Book Transportation: Our first port of call for transportation planning is Rome2Rio . This website allows us to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. For road trips in Turkey, we always use  Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for finding the best deal on car rentals. Flixbus is our preferred company for bus travel and Eurail for train travel.

Book Travel Insurance: Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. We never travel without it as we have had to use it several times in the past. We have been using 1Cover for the past 4 years, however, we also recommend World Nomads as many of our fulltime travel friends swear by them.

Always Carry With You: When travelling in Turkey , we always carry a   daypack  for excursions, and the   Lonely Planet Guide !

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out our Travel Resources page for the companies we use and recommend to plan and book our travels. Through lots of trial and error over the years, these are the best!

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We are Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels, a couple in our late 40’s / mid 50’s who have been travelling the world fulltime since January 2018. We decided to minimalise belongings, and get out of the rat race early to enjoy a new lifestyle with more time for slow travel and new experiences. If you want to know more about who we are, why we choose this lifestyle and how we do it, please follow our adventures and see how you can do it too.

Explore Alanya

Sea view from the Castle

Plan Your Trip to Alanya: Best of Alanya Tourism

Essential alanya.

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Alanya Is Great For

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Eat & drink

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Hammams & Turkish Baths

best places to visit in alanya turkey

  • Blue Star Hotel
  • Big Blue Sky Hotel
  • Crystal Land Of Paradise
  • Concordia Celes Hotel
  • Senza The Inn Resort & Spa - Ultra All Inclusive
  • Kleopatra Blue Hawaii Restaurant
  • Le Chevy Restaurant
  • Chefmetin Moonlightrestaurant & Steak House
  • Mezze Grill Ocakbasi Restaurant
  • Cozy Alanya
  • Kleopatra Beach
  • Megamall AVM
  • Alanya Teleferik
  • Water Planet Aqua Park
  • Alanya All Inclusive Pirate Boat Trip With Hotel Transfer
  • Sapadere Canyon and Dwarf Cave with Dim River Lunch
  • Half Day Alanya City Tour With Cable Car And Sunset Panorama
  • Alanya Jeep Safari Tour To Taurus Mountains (6 Activities in 1 Trip)
  • Green Canyon Boat Tour from Alanya (Included lunch and Drinks)

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Top Things to Do in Alanya: A Complete Guide for Exploring the City

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanya used to have pirates and a sultan ruling over it, and now it’s  a mix of old stories and modern charm , just like waves hitting its pretty shores. This holiday town on Turkey’s southwest coast  has a lot of things to do , with interesting old places and the blue Mediterranean sea in the background.

Alanya is a must-visit if you want a place with fun stuff, relaxing times, and interesting things to see .  This guide is for those excited to go on an adventure and explore Alanya’s mix of old stories, excitement, and chill vibes.

Get ready for a complete list of things to do in Alanya.

Here’s an overview:

Things to do in Alanya: Historical and Cultural Attractions

Alanya castle, the iconic red tower, damlatas cave, alanya archaeological museum, outdoor adventures, alanya aquarium tour, alanya 4-in-1 adventure package tour, sailing and boat tours, visit the canyons, turkish baths, shopping and dining, nightlife and entertainment.

If you enjoy learning about history and culture, check out these things to do in Alanya.

Alanya Castle is a significant part of the city’s landscape. It  showcases Seljuk architecture  and offers stunning views of  both the ancient town and the modern beachfront city .

Related Read: A Complete Guide to Visiting Alanya Castle

Things to do in Alanya include visiting the Alanya Castle

The Red Tower, also known as ‘Kızılkule’ in Turkish, tells a story of preservation and nautical history. Built in the 13th century as part of Alanya Castle, its red color stands out against the blue sea.

Visit Historical Kızıl Kule (Red Tower) in Alanya

Explore the amazing Damlatas Cave,  known for its dripping stones . Besides its geological beauty, the cave is believed to  have therapeutic air  that can help with lung disorders.

Related read: Best Beaches in Alanya: The Pros and Cons of Each

Damlatas Cave in Alanya, Turkey

The museum showcases the region’s rich history  from prehistoric times to the Ottoman era . It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and a chance to reveal the city’s roots.

Alanya Archaeological Museum in Alanya, Turkey

Alanya has amazing nature stuff and fun things to do for people who love adventures and nature.

Check out these outdoor activities in Alanya:

Go on an exciting trip to the Alanya Antalya Aquarium. See  lots of different sea animals , including some  really special ones . There’s even  a cool tunnel  that makes it feel like you’re underwater without getting wet.

Visit the aquarium hassle-free with this roundtrip transfer from Alanya, including entrance – book here .

Highlights include:

  • Experience the grandeur of the longest tunnel, stretching 131 meters, enveloped by a variety of sea creatures.
  • Investigate 40 distinct aquariums that represent marine ecosystems from around the world.
  • Engage in a thrilling encounter with several species of sharks.
  • Delve into the depths of Turkey’s marine life in a recreated submarine cave.
  • Revel in authentic snow and ice sculptures, complete with engaging activities in Snow World.

Alanya Aquarium in Antalya, Turkey

If you want even more excitement, try the 4-IN-1 Adventure Package Tour. You can  go rafting in Köprülü Canyon and zip across beautiful landscapes . It’s super thrilling, and you’ll have amazing stories to tell when you return home.

Tour inclusions:

  • Roundtrip transfer
  • BBQ inspired Lunch
  • Expert Guide Service
  • Quad Safari
  • Jeep Safari
Book this package tour!

Alanya 4-IN-1 Adventure Package Tour

Feel the freedom of the sea on a boat tour in Alanya. You can choose  a calm sailing day or a fun pirate-themed adventure . One of the most popular boat tours is the  Grand Pirate Boat Tour . It’s like being a pirate on the Mediterranean; the views are amazing. 

We cover the different boat trips in detail here: Alanya Boat Tours: Which is the Best Tour For You?

Alanya Boat Tours

Take a walk in the Sapadere, Green Canyon, and Tazi Canyon canyons. It’s  peaceful and beautiful . For more excitement,  try paragliding  over the stunning landscapes.

Sapadere Canyon, Alanya, Turkey

Alanya offers an authentic Turkish bath experience . Dating back to the Ottoman era, the Turkish bath  involves relaxation in a warm room , allowing the body  to perspire and the pores to open .

This is followed by  a full body wash and massage . It’s a refreshing and relaxing experience, perfect after a day of exploring Alanya’s historic sites and outdoor adventures. Make sure you don’t miss out on this must-have Turkish experience when you are in Alanya.

Turkish Bath in Alanya, Turkey

When you’re in Alanya, there are enjoyable activities related to shopping, dining, and more. Take a tour of Alanya Bazaar , a lively market filled with various items and aromas. Don’t miss  trying the local cuisine , featuring delicious dishes like kebabs, or  exploring seafood restaurants  offering fresh catches from the sea.

Additionally,  relax at rooftop bars , perfect for sipping drinks while enjoying pleasant views. Alanya has  enjoyable options for everyone , whether you’re interested in exploring markets, savoring local flavors, or simply relaxing with a view.

Shopping in Alanya Bazaar, Turkey

Alanya’s nightlife and entertainment scene  have some fun options . You can check out  beach clubs to enjoy music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere right by the sea. If you’re into dancing and staying up late, some nightclubs play various tunes  to keep you moving.

For those who like live music, there are venues where you can  listen to bands or artists  while having a good time. So, whether you prefer chilling by the beach, dancing in a club, or listening to live tunes, Alanya has simple and enjoyable options for your nightlife.

To sum it up, Alanya gives you a full experience mixing history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. Alanya is lively and interesting whether you like old stuff, exciting things, good food, or staying up late. It has beautiful views, old places to explore, fun outdoor stuff, tasty food, busy markets, and a fun nightlife. A

lanya is like  a special place on Turkey ‘s southwest coast , and it will make sure you have great memories from your trip.

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How To Spend The Best Days in Alanya, Turkey

The Elegant Wanderer

Alanya is one of the most loved Turkish resorts – from May to October it is a big city famous for Kleopatra beach and Alanya castle. But are those places the only must-see places in Alanya? Far away from this. Alanya has much more to offer than I was expecting.

Alanya’s name is coming from Alaiye which was given by the Seljuk Turks after the conquest. Alanya wasn’t always big city like it is today. Alanya used to be a fishing village but in the 80’s it started changing into a big city. I knew Alanya was popular destination among holidaymakers looking for sun and great beaches and that’s why it wasn’t on my travel radar before. I usually don’t prefer popular tourist destination, but I was in Turkey before, fell in love with this country and wanted to explore this part of the country too. It is easily reachable from Istanbul – there are frequent flights from the Istanbul Airport.

I’m presenting you a list of must-see places in Alanya to get you inspired.

ULTIMATE MUST-SEE PLACES IN ALANYA

Alanya kalesi & red tower.

Alanya Kalesi (Alanya Castle) is located on the top of the hill and it is certainly one of the must-see places in Alanya. There are three ways to get to the top – by car, cable car or walking. The castle is the most significant landmark of the city and it has great value for Alanya. Before it was used for strategic distribution and it’s also known to be the best protected castle in the history.

As mentioned above, there are different ways to get to the top, but the best way to get there is by cable car . There are two different fares – one for the locals and one for the tourists. The price in 2022 was 100 TRL for roundtrip. You will get some amazing views during the ride – you can see the Cleopatra beach, the Damlataş cave and the whole city.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

You can also drive up to the castle or walk from the bottom – from the nearby Red Tower. Red Tower (being the second most important landmark of the city) stands by the water nearby the Shipyard built in the 13th Century by the Seljuks. It served for the protection of the port and the shipyard. The tower is consisting of five floors and the last two were built out of red clay bricks which resulted in the well-deserved name Red Tower. 

The city walls from the Red Tower will take you to the shipyards. Built-in 1227 by the Seljuks, the shipyard is 56 meters wide and 44 meters long. Ships were built underneath the five arches of the shipyard, which is rather an unknown sight in Alanya. Although it is located directly under the castle, it is easy to miss, but I would put in on the list of the must-see places in Alanya.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

The castle wall is more than 6km long and it offers some great views of Alanya and its two main beaches – Kleopatra beach and Keykubat beach. Those impressive views will be the highlight of your visit. You can feel that the entire city and the Mediterranean Sea are under your feet.

Alanya Castle Gallery

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanya caves

Damlataş cave.

Located on the west of Alanya castle, very close to the cable car which takes you to the Alanya castle. It was discovered accidentally and now it’s known as Asthma cave thanks to its special nature. Combination of 22°C throughout the year and the air containing 70% more nitrogen than the outside & 10 to 12 times more carbon dioxide makes very good alternative treatment for patients with asthma.

Name of Cave “Damlataş” comes from the stalactite which exists by water droplets. It is the first cave which was opened to tourism in Turkey.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Dim cave, second largest cave in Turkey, is located in the Dim Valley which is named after the Dim stream. It is located 14km away from Alanya city center. Thanks to the stalactites and stalagmites embellishing the whole cave it’s one of the prettiest caves in Turkey. At the end of the cave there is a 200 m2 wide lake. The temperature is 18°C and it is constant – it is the same in summer and in winter. It is estimated that the Dim cave is about 1 million years old.

Dim River – Dim Çayi

Dim cave, mentioned above, is part of the Dim valley and it is not the only visit-worthy place in the valley. One of the most popular and must-see places in Antalya is the Dim River . Lots of tourists, including Turkish people, love to visit this place to escape the bustling and loud Alanya city center.

The Dim River with picnic areas and restaurants is the place to be visited to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the coolness of the mountain water. The Dim River is a perfect place for having a Turkish breakfast, picnics, relaxing and nature walks. If you are an adrenaline lover, you can go rafting too. Along the river you will find lots of restaurants, some of them built on the river bed. During the summer, when the water level is low, the tables of the restaurants are placed in the water, so you can have your feet in the cool water of the river while eating out.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Beaches of Alanya

When thinking of Alanya activities, visiting the beaches of Alanya may be the first thing to cross your mind. This city has some gorgeous beaches and astonishing sea.

Absolute winner of the list is Kleopatra Beach , with its gold-coloured sand and azure sea. Here’s the story behind the name of this beach – Roman politician and general Marcus Anthonius loved Queen Cleopatra and gifted her with a beach that would be named after her. The only negative side about this beach is that it is always crowded, so you can’t count on having a peaceful time on the beach. I believe that the beach is worth the visit regardless of the crowd. Or you can visit Alanya before summer months when there is less people. There isn’t an entrance fee, but you have to pay for lounge chairs and parasols. One of the best activities is watching the sunset – believe me, it is perfect.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Another sandy beach with crystal clear water is Damlataş Beach , just in front of the Damlataş cave. You should definitely visit this place and spoil yourself with drinking a lemonade while looking at the green mountain with the Alanya castle on it. But you should be careful when entering the sea, because the sea has a rocky and slippery entrance, plus that it’s wavy and it can be challenging to get in/out the water.

There are also many beautiful beaches outside the Alanya – like Incekum beach or Mahmutlar beach. I bet that you’re going to love every single beach in Alanya area.

Seyir Terasi

This place should be on your must-see places in Alanya if you would love to enjoy in aerial view of Alanya.  It is developed as a green park by the Municipality of Alanya. It has some shops, cafés, and restaurants and it is also a perfect picnic place. The views from here spectacular, you can see the ocean, the harbor and the entire city below.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

There is one more thing not to be missed – you should know that Mediterranean Coastline of Turkey is a fruit factory. I highly recommend you to visit a local market to buy some fresh fruits or veggies. And you really have to try the fresh squeezed juice on the streets. It’s the best orange juice I’ve ever had.

Have you visited Alanya previously? Are there any must-see places in Alanya that you would put on the list too?

best places to visit in alanya turkey

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10 comments.

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ANUKRATI DOSI

This dim river looks so so lovely. Such a pleasure to the eyes.

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It’s a beautiful place to spend some time to relax. I love being outdoors, in the nature.

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I’ve always wanted to visit Turkey, and now I have another place on my bucket list! Great article!

I keep going back to Turkey, it’s such a beautiful country to explore and there’s so much to see. Thanks!

' src=

The fresh squeezed OJ to buy on the streets sounds so refreshing. And I bet the fruits are so ripe and delicious.

The juice was so refresing and delicious! Makes me want to go back and have more of it and more of their fruits.

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OMG, it’s been so long since I’ve been to Alanya (think I visited as a kid, with my parents?), I hardly recognised any of these (except for Incekum). Your post definitely filled me with a desire to go back and explore it anew – thanks for sharing!

I’m glad that I visited Alanya, it’s a nice place to explore. I have to explore more of Turkey for sure!

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Chelsea Messina

I’ve always wanted to visit Turkey for the balloons, which is what most articles on Turkey are about. Your article was nice and refreshing, and these are all new to me!

The balloons in Turkey are definitely a great experience and Cappadocia is so worth visiting. But there are many places in Turkey worth visiting too – if you love sea, there are many great beaches in Mugla province or in Izmir province.

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best places to visit in alanya turkey

Hotel Villa Turka

What to see in alanya turkey: 12 best places to visit.

Besides its long sea season and blue flag bays, Alanya stands out with its historical and cultural sites as well. For this reason, the list of what to see in Alanya could be quite long. Well, if you are wondering what are the best places to visit in Alanya, let's take a quick look at the best 12. As long as you follow our Alanya travel guide , you can be sure that you will not miss any experience in Alanya.

Beaches to See in Alanya

There are options in Alanya for those who want an active holiday on crowded beaches & beach parties and for those who want to relax in untouched bays. Moreover, there are many blue flag beaches in Alanya and the sea season lasts from April to November.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Cleopatra Beach

This beautiful beach, also the most famous beach in Alanya, takes its name from the Egyptian queen Cleopatra's love of this bay. Cleopatra beach, which is truly worthy of queens, is at the top of the list what to see in Alanya due to its approximately 2.5 km long gold sands and clear sea. At this blue flag beach, you can explore the underwater life and participate in many sports activities such as canoeing and surfing. Moreover, since it has a shallow and smooth sea, it is a very suitable choice for families with children, too.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

İncekum Beach

Another famous beach of Alanya is İncekum beach. It also shines out with its shallow and calm sea and is one of the blue flag beaches of Alanya. It is a very safe option, especially for novice swimmers and families with children. You can safely swim in Incekum beach, which is as calm and clear as a pool, watch small fish flocks or experience sailing and canoeing.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Soğukkapı (Tersane) Beach

If you want to spend your Alanya holiday on a quieter and more peaceful beach, our best recommendation is Soğukkapı (Tersane) Beach. A unique option for anyone who wants to track sea turtles in pristine waters and relax on a quieter beach; not to mention the experience of swimming along the historical walls. However, you should take your needs as umbrellas, sunbeds etc. with you because there are no rental facilities there. If you are going to stay at Hotel Villa Turka, don’t worry! You can borrow everything you need from our hotel.

Caves to See in Alanya

Yes, that’s true! There are dozens of caves to visit in Alanya; moreover, the most famous and largest caves of the Mediterranean region are here, too. In addition, many of these caves, which are natural wonders with their stalactites, stalagmites and natural ponds, have been the subject of legends. We will briefly refer to the 3 most famous ones; however, if you have a passion for diving or if you are excited to explore a pirate cave by boat, we recommend you to take a look at our Alanya caves guide for more recommendations.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Damlataş Cave

Damlataş cave, Turkey's first cave opened to tourism, was discovered in 1948. It is a true natural wonder with its passages of more than 50 meters, millions of years old stalactites, stalagmites and dripstone pools. We highly recommend you to witness this magical atmosphere that will transport you to different worlds from the first moment you enter. Afterwards, do not forget to rest at the famous Damlataş Beach, located just in front of the cave.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Fosforlu (Phosphorus) Cave

You may not have heard of Alanya Phosphorus Cave, but you must have seen its photos without knowing the name. It is one of the most popular stops for romantic boat tours, divers and photographers. This natural wonder, which has a history of millions of years, shines as if it is phosphorescent (Not only itself, but also its’ waters!) due to the light leaking from the underwater corridors. If you want to swim or dive in the colorful waters, especially in the evening, you can reach Phosphorus Cave with tours departing from Alanya marina. Believe us, you should add Fosforlu Cave tour to your what-to-do in Alanya list and take a romantic evening there.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Kadıini Cave

Kadıini Cave, which stands out with its historical features as well as being a natural wonder, is also the first settlement of the Alanya region as it dates back to Stone Age. Therefore, nowadays it is home to archaeology enthusiasts from all over the world. If you also want to follow the history of Alanya step by step, Kadıini Cave will be the right starting point.

Historical Sites to See in Alanya

Known for its rich historical heritage, Alanya has many ruins dating back from the Stone Age to Rome and the Seljuk Empires. Moreover, each of them fascinates those who see it not only with its historical heritage, but also with the breathtaking views of unique hills which they were built on. Below you can find 3 historical places that we think should add to the list of places to see in Alanya. However, if you are a history enthusiast, you can find the full list here .

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Ancient City of Iotape

Iotape Ancient City, which was built in the 40-50s, is a Cilician period settlement. Despite its thousands of years of history, its walls, interior parts, church and ancient port have managed to survive until today. It is also possible to see the influences of the Roman period in the ancient city of Iotape, which will beam you back thousands of years. We recommend that you also take a walk in the pine forests surrounding the ancient city and enjoy the sunset in the pristine bay. If you still didn’t add it to your what to do in Alanya list, you should.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanya Castle

When it comes to places to visit in Alanya, Alanya Castle is undoubtedly the one that comes to mind first. With a total of 83 towers and approximately 1200 cisterns, Alanya Castle is a magnificent structure dating back to the Hellenistic period. We recommend that you spend one day of your Alanya tour to visit Alanya Castle and the local artisans selling traditional clothes and handmade rugs. Bonus: Alanya Castle is also one of the best sunset-watching spots in Alanya.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alara Han / Caravanserai

Alara Han is one of the best options for those who want to trace the Seljuk Empire’s history in Alanya. This caravanserai, which was built in the 13th century, is a very important historical structure due to its location on the trade routes of the period. Moreover, all internal structures such as baths, fountains and masjids have survived to the present day. Another detail that fascinates those who visit Alara Han is the rock-carved wall decorations.

Nature Attractions to See in Alanya

With its blue flag beaches and Turkey's most famous caves, the nature of Alanya is already rich enough. However, the natural attractions to see in Alanya do not end there; The canyons and streams of the region also host thousands of visitors every year. If you want to enjoy the cool waters and shades of green accompanied by bird sounds, you should definitely add these suggestions to your list of places to visit in Alanya.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Sapadere Canyon

Sapadere Canyon , a paradise for nature lovers, is famous for its high waterfalls, endemic plants and ice-cold water. It is a very suitable area both for a day trip as well as for doing nature sports. You can experience many activities such as trekking, camping, rock climbing etc. there.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Dim Stream National Park

Dim Stream National Park, which hosts many endemic plants and pine forests, is like a tree museum with full of untouched natural beauty. In addition, there are large and small lakes and waterfalls. If you are tired of the heat and the crowd and want to retreat to a cool corner accompanied by the sounds of birds, you can turn your route to Dim Stream National Park. Moreover, this peaceful place is only 7 km away from Alanya Centre.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

We should mention that Dim Stream could be so crowded in summer season. However, in Oba Çayı, which is a branch of Dim Stream, you can find the peace of nature you are looking for more easily and you can enjoy the cold waters of the waterfalls. In addition, Oba Çayı is host to many famous places for those who want to taste the local Alanya breakfast recipes.

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best places to visit in alanya turkey

10 Best Things to Do in Alanya

What is alanya most famous for.

Alanya’s broad sandy beaches have seen the town on the Turkish Riviera expand from a modest resort into the popular summer playground it is today. With a large expat community drawn by the 300 or so days of sunshine each year – not to mention the relaxed lifestyle – there’s plenty going on even outside the busy summer season.

Beyond the beach, cosmopolitan Alanya has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient fortifications, a historic shipyard and several compelling museums to visit. They’re a far cry from the noisy bars and packed restaurants of the waterfront but combined with the resort’s modern attractions, they form 1 well-rounded and irresistible package.

What are the best things to do in Alanya?

Alanya castle, the resort town’s coastal and historical landmark.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanya Castle’s present incarnation is the remains of a Seljuk fortress, which was constructed after Alaeddin Keykubat I's conquest of Alanya in 1220. However, fortifications have stood on this site since the 3rd century BC. Thanks to its strategic position, it affords spectacular and far-reaching views of the city.

Arrive in style by riding a gondola from the lower Damlataş Cable Car Station to the upper Kale Cable Car Station, located in the Ehmedek section of the castle. With a capacity of 1,100 people per hour, you shouldn’t have to wait long to make the 900-meter-long journey to the top. Once there, you can walk part of the 6.5-km-long walls or visit the open-air museum to see artifacts from Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman times.

Location: Hisariçi, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: November–March: daily from 8.30 am to 5 pm. April–October: daily from 8.30 am to 7 pm

Phone: +90 (0)242 511 3304

Kizilkule Fortress

The red tower of alanya.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Kizilkule Fortress is also nicknamed the Red Tower, after the red bricks used to build the structure. This iconic landmark is easy to spot on the town’s skyline. Visitors from across Türkiye recognize it as the image chosen for the country’s 250,000 lira banknote (1992 to 2005).

Construction of Kizilkule Fortress began in the 13th century, overseen by Syrian architect Ebu Ali Reha. It was intended to protect the Tersane, or shipyard, which dates from the same era. This substantial octagonal structure has a tower that's around 33 meters tall and 12 meters wide, with a crenellated top. The first floor is a museum, but the best reason to visit can be found at its highest level. Climb its winding stone steps to admire the panoramic views across Alanya and its bay.

Location: Çarşı, İskele Cd. No. 102, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm

best places to visit in alanya turkey

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best places to visit in alanya turkey

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best places to visit in alanya turkey

5 Best Nightlife in Alanya

Alanya shipyard, where alanya’s historical and modern views blend.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanya Limani (Shipyard) is the harbor area and top nightlife hub of Alanya. The shipyard – Tersane as locals call it – was built during the Seljuk reign, in the early part of the 13th century. Next to it is an arsenal. The shipyard consists of 5 arched docks, each interconnected by a series of passages – the only surviving example of its kind.

You can read about the history of shipbuilding and maritime navigation inside the brick structure. One of Alanya Limani's greatest draws is the numerous bars and restaurants occupying the harbor area. It's the focus of Alanya after dark, with foam parties, chillout spaces and live DJs making this a fun place to hang out.

Location: 9 Tersane Sk, Tophane, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Alanya Archeological Museum

Admire the historical treasures of alanya.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

The Alanya Archeological Museum has been around for over half a century, originally centered on the twin themes of archeology and ethnography. Following a renovation, its sole focus is on archeology. The oldest exhibit in its extensive collection dates from 625 BC, which is a stone inscribed with the Phoenician language.

The Alanya Archeological Museum displays pieces of marble, terracotta, bronze and mosaics. One of its most famous artifacts is a bronze statue of Heracles, dating from the 2nd century AD. Later works from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods are also worth seeing here. Don’t miss the beautiful museum garden, which occupies a former Ottoman graveyard.

Location: 2 İsmet Hilmi Balcı Cd, Saray, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: October–mid-April: daily from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. Mid-April–October: daily from 8.30 am to 7.30 pm

Phone: +90 (0)242 513 1228

photo by Gmihail ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Damlataş Caves

A natural wonder with curative properties.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

The Damlataş Caves are believed to have health-enhancing properties. Health tourism centered around these caves is a buoyant sector of the local tourism economy. Some local doctors send patients with asthma to the caves as they’ll benefit from the 95% humidity, high levels of carbon dioxide, and even a little radioactivity.

However, you don’t have to have a medical condition to visit this extraordinary place. The name translates to ‘dripping stone’, which provides a clue to what you might expect to find there: stalactites, stalagmites and mineral-rich water dripping through the rock make the Damlataş Caves a subterranean wonder in Alanya.

Location: 81 Damlataş Cd, Çarşı, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: Daily from 10 am to 7.30 pm

Phone: +90 (0)242 513 0508

Alanya Lighthouse and marina

A beacon of the resort town.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanya Lighthouse perches at the end of a pathway which partially encloses Alanya’s marina. A stroll out to this historic structure rewards with views of boats on 1 side and the open sea to the other.

The marina itself was built over a decade ago. Over 280 berths are occupied with a mix of liveaboards and luxury yachts. Even if you can’t afford your own boat, it’s fun to stroll along the boardwalk and dream. For a taste of the high life, book an excursion with a professional crew who’ll take you out to snorkel, swim and unwind.

Location: Çarşı, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Alanya Lunapark

For family fun and thrills in alanya.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Lunapark Alanya contains all the classic rides, including a Ferris wheel that offers a bird’s-eye view of the town and its beaches, as well as high swings for those brave enough to keep their eyes open throughout the ride.

Alanya’s centrally-located funfair is a must-visit for families staying in the resort. Younger kids will love the carousel, while the park’s thrill rides will satisfy teens. A spin on the bumper cars at this popular amusement park will get you laughing.

Location: Kızlar Pınarı, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: Daily from 11 am to 1.30 am

Phone: +90 (0)532 375 1675

Alanyum Centrum

The resort town’s largest mall.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

Alanyum Centrum is Alanya’s largest shopping mall. Anchored by the Carrefour supermarket, this modern complex contains plenty of stores selling everything from clothing to electronics, leather goods to jewelry. You’ll also find a movie theater showing the latest movie releases.

For many, a trip to the market is a must-do. Alanya’s main produce market is located close to the Dolmus station just north of Ataturk Boulevard, the town’s busiest shopping street. This bazaar sells an array of fresh fruit, vegetables and heaps of exotic spices. Even if you don’t intend to buy, it’s worth a visit just for the colorful scene.

Location: 219 Keykubat Blv., Cumhuriyet, Keykubat Blv. No. 219, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: Daily from 10 am to 10 pm

Phone: +90 (0)242 515 1134

Alanya Open Air Theatre

For sunsets and spectacles.

best places to visit in alanya turkey

The Alanya Open Air Theatre was an important addition to Alanya’s event space when it opened in 2013. Theatregoers can enjoy live performances in the open air, a pleasure in Türkiye's warm climate.

With a capacity of just over 3000 people, the Alanya Open Air Theatre hosts occasional concerts and plays but it’s worth keeping an eye out for local listings during your vacation. Visit before nightfall to catch the sun setting into the sea in the distance behind the stage.

Location: Çarşı, 1519 No 8. Sk., 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: Performance times vary

Phone: +90 (0)242 510 2000

Alanya Ataturk House Museum

Memorabilia of the founding founder.

Alanya Ataturk House Museum offers some insight into Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic who visited Alanya in 1935. A varied collection of memorabilia is on display here, including photographs, a telegraph to the people of Alanya, and other historical documents.

Alanya Ataturk House Museum has a space exhibiting ethnographic items, some of which were previously displayed at the Alanya Archeological Museum. Period furniture and other household items show how a wealthy Alanya family would have lived back in the 1930s.

Location: Şekerhane Mah., Anzaklar Sok., 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

Open: Hours vary by season

Phone: +90 (0)242 513 3254

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Travel Guide to Alanya - Endless Travel Destinations

Travel Guide to Alanya

Are you looking for a travel guide to alanya in turkey check out my travel guide to alanya with lots of great tips.

Alanya is the most popular holiday destination in Turkey and is visited by more than 150,000 tourists every single year. You’ll immediately notice that you’re in a tourist-friendly seaside resort with great resorts, restaurants from all corners of the world, hundreds of shops, and friendly locals. Not to forget the kilometer-long sandy beaches and sun guarantee all year round! It all helps to create a perfect holiday destination as many tourists return to again and again.

However, if you’ve never visited Alanya before, you may not know where to stay in Alanya or how to get around the city. That’s exactly why you should read this travel guide to Alanya. This way you’ll get answers to your questions before your trip to Alanya  in Turkey.

Travel Guide to Alanya - Endless Travel Destinations

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Alanya?

Alanya is a destination you can visit all year round, but the weather cycle provides hot summers and cooler winters. The peak season in Alanya runs from the beginning of May to the end of September, where the temperature usually is between 25-31 degrees.

However, the temperature tends to get even higher in July and August, and the heat can sometimes feel unbearable! There’s also a very low risk of rain in the summer months and you can (almost) be absolutely sure of sun guarantee.

On the other hand, if you’re visiting Alanya off-season , you may want to consider a long-sleeved shirt. The temperature is somewhere between 9-20 degrees and there’s a much greater risk of rain. Although the temperature is often comfortable in the spring and autumn in Alanya , it is still recommended to visit Alanya in the summer months . There are also significantly more tourists in the summer, creating a true holiday vibe.

Where to stay in Alanya?

When booking a hotel in Alanya, there’s no right or wrong place to stay in Alanya. But it’s a great advantage to live as close to the city center as possible. The city center is located at the foot of the rocky peninsula. This is also where you’ll find a myriad of restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Many tourists also choose to stay at Cleopatra Beach , which offers many good hotels.

During my first two trips to Alanya, I stayed in a really cool hotel on the outskirts of the city. It was difficult to get into the center of Alanya. It took a long time to walk in the heat and the buses were often crowded in peak season. It resulted in quite a few taxi rides until we found out that there was apparently a free shuttle bus at the hotel. So just remember to check if the hotel has a shuttle bus, especially if you’re staying on the outskirts of town.

If you’re looking for a suitable hotel in Alanya, try looking on Hotels.com or Booking.com . Another option is to book a package tour through a travel agency.

Travel Guide to Alanya - Where to stay - Endless Travel Destinations

How to get around Alanya?

Most of the sights in Alanya are within walking distance and it’s really easy to get around the city. But there are also many different transportation options in Alanya if you want to rest your legs, or simply just don’t bother to walk.

Dolmus: The minibusses in Alanya are called Dolmus and are a quick way to get around the city. You never have to wait long for a pushing Dolmus to arrive. It may be necessary to reach out before the driver realizes you need to get on the bus. It’s both the cheapest and easiest way to get around Alanya.

Bus: The local buses run from the bus station west of the city center and are another easy solution with cheap prices. If you want to visit the big city of Antalya, Manavgat or another city, you can also choose to take one of the buses there.

Taxi: Of course, there are also lots of yellow taxis in Alanya and it will certainly not be difficult to find one. It’s important that you either ask the driver to turn on the taximeter or agree on a fixed price in advance. Not all taxi drivers are God’s best children, and this helps to avoid an unpleasant situation.

There’s a small bell to call a taxi on several trees and streetlights in Alanya. After pressing the bell, just wait a bit and wupti, then there’s a taxi. It really is a smart system!

Pick-up service: Many restaurants and specialty shops in Alanya have free pick-up service, where they both pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. It’s a wonderful service that you should take advantage of if necessary. You can check the restaurant or store’s website to see if it’s an option.

Rental car or scooter: If you’re planning to experience things to do outside of Alanya, it can be a great advantage to rent a car or scooter. It’s really great that you can decide for yourself where you want to go and when you want to leave.

The traffic in Alanya can be a bit stressful and confusing, but just be extra careful when driving yourself. Make sure you’ve good insurance so that you avoid a potentially unpleasant and expensive situation.

Travel Guide to Alanya - How to get around - Endless Travel Destinations

What sights to see in Alanya?

Alanya is a beautiful city with history, culture, long white sandy beaches, and sun guarantee most of the year. There are many fun things to do in Alanya , but here’s a list of the very best and most important things to see in Alanya:

Alanya Castle is located on the rocky peninsula of Alanya and is the most important landmark in the city. It’s an absolute must-see in Alanya, but it’s especially the fascinating views from the top that are worth a visit.

Old Shipyard dates back to 1227 and was formerly used to build warships. It’s a historic visit with several archeological finds.

Red Tower is another landmark in Alanya and was originally built as a water tower and lookout post. Today, the tower is an ethnological museum with several exhibits and a beautiful view from the top.

Dim Cay is beautifully situated in the Taurus Mountains and is a scenic area with a very cool river. Take a dip in the icy water or relax in the quiet surroundings.

Damlatas Cave is an ancient stalactite cave that is believed to have been shaped 10,000-15,000 years BC. It’s not that big, but it’s still a good experience in Alanya.

Travel Guide to Alanya - What sights to see - Endless Travel Destinations

Where to go shopping in Alanya?

Alanya has a great selection of shopping opportunities, but I’ll only get into the top three places to shop in Alanya in this post:

Bazaar is the most popular shopping area in Alanya and offers shops with all kinds of copy goods such as clothes, shoes, and bags at cheap prices. The colorful and atmospheric bazaar is of course a must-do in Alanya!

Markets in Alanya are spread well across the city and there’s actually a local market every single day. Here you can buy everything from exotic fruits, spices, clothes, shoes and much more.

Atatürk Boulevard is the main street and the largest shopping street in Alanya. Here you’ll find a wide selection of normal shops, but there are also a few bazaar shops in between.

What to eat in Alanya?

Alanya offers hundreds of restaurants with food from all corners of the world and at all price levels. But you should definitely not miss the Turkish cuisine, which is considered the 3rd best in the whole world!

One of the best ways to experience Turkish cuisine is by ordering Meze, which is roughly Turkey’s answer to tapas. Also, don’t miss the delicious kebabs, Efes beer, Raki, lamb, and Turkish tea! There’s so much traditional Turkish food that tastes delicious, so give it a try.

Travel Guide to Alanya - What to eat - Endless Travel Destinations

Tips for Alanya

  • In Alanya and Turkey in general, payments are made with both Turkish Lira and Euro. However, there’s a greater chance of getting the right price if paying with the Turkish Lira.
  • Credit cards can be used at some restaurants and shops, but I recommend withdrawing some cash. Please note that staff doesn’t take your credit card with them without supervision.
  • It’s common to pay 10 percent of the bill in gratuities at the restaurants in Alanya.
  • It’s common to pay somewhere between 2-5 Turkish Lira per day to the cleaning staff at the hotel.
  • If the sellers in Alanya are getting too intrusive, you simply must be a little rude or ignore them completely.
  • Turkey is a Muslim country, but the locals in Alanya are used to tourists not wearing much clothes. If you’re going further into the country, on the other hand, it’s a good idea to choose some more appropriate clothing
  • In Turkey, there’s a law that tourists must always carry their passports with them. Remember to keep your passport safe from any pickpockets.

Travel Guide to Alanya - Tips - Endless Travel Destinations

So, that was my travel guide to Alanya, Turkey. What are you looking forward to on your trip to Alanya? Did you like my travel guide to Alanya? Feel free to leave a comment.

Planning a trip to Alanya?  You might also like these articles:

  • 18 Best Things to Do in Alanya

10 Amazing Day Trips from Alanya

  • 8 Best Places for Shopping in Alanya
  • 9 Best Places to Stay in Turkey

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Joys of Traveling

Alanya attractions – 9 best places to see in Alanya

Travelers have always been greatly interested in resorts which make it possible to combine a beach holiday with exciting sightseeing opportunities.

The sights of Alanya in Turkey are very diverse and allow you to get acquainted with the history of the city , enjoy its natural beauty , look at unique caves and arrange beautiful cruises on the sea .

Alanya is still developing quite rapidly, and every year more and more opportunities for tourists crop up.

What attractions of Alanya are worth seeing and what to expect from them – we describe next.

Alanya, Turkey

Table of Contents

Cableway (alanya teleferik), alanya fortress (alanya kalesi), shipyard in alanya (alanya shipyard), alanya gardens, dimcay river, damlatas caves.

One of the oldest attractions in Alanya is the Red Tower, which today has become a symbol and hallmark of the city. The stronghold was erected at the beginning of the 13th century by the Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubat as a defensive object of the Alanya fortress. The name of the tower is associated with a shade of stones lining it. Next to the old building there is a small museum of shipbuilding, which exhibited models of ships and some items of construction items.

Red tower

The Red Tower is also a viewing platform, from where you can see the rich and vibrant landscapes of picturesque Alanya. The steps leading to the very top of the structure are rather steep and high (about half a meter), so you need to be extremely careful here. In general, this is one of those attractions in Alanya that you definitely need to see while relaxing at the resort. Make it easy on your own, without buying an excursion.

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On the red tower

  • Address: Çarşı Mahallesi, İskele Cd. No: 102, 07400 Alanya, Turkey.
  • Opening hours: daily from 09:00 to 19:00.
  • The cost of visiting: the price of a ticket to the tower is 6 TL, a single ticket “tower + museum” costs 8 TL.

What to see in Alanya besides the Red Tower? One of the most exciting events can be a trip by cable car uphill to the ancient castle of Alanya.

The lift leaves from the station located near Cleopatra beach . The trip takes no more than 5 minutes.

During this time you will have time to enjoy the sea views and unforgettable views of the city.

Cableway

Upstairs you find yourself in the northern part of the fortress, connected to the main buildings by special paths.

You can get to the outer walls of the castle, which are of major tourist interest, in 15 minutes on your own (distance no more than 1 km).

There are seating areas on the mountain, there is a cafe selling drinks and ice cream.

Previously, this part of the castle was hidden from travelers, and almost no one visited it, but with the advent of the cable car, it became quite popular.

  • Address: Saray Mahallesi, Güzelyalı Cd. 8-12, 07400 Alanya, Turkey.
  • Opening hours: Monday to Friday, the funicular runs from 09:30 to 18:00. On Saturday and Sunday – from 09:30 to 19:00.
  • The cost of the trip: the price of an adult ticket in both directions is 20 TL, children’s ticket – 10 TL.

If you decide what to see for yourself among the attractions of Alanya, then do not lose sight of the main city fortress. A large-scale construction was built in 1226 on a hill at an altitude of 250 m above sea level. The area of ​​the historical complex is almost 10 hectares, and its walls stretch over a distance of about 7 km. You can independently explore the free part of the fortress, where there are ancient stone cisterns and a functioning mosque.

Alanya Fortress

In the paid section of the sights you will find the ancient citadel and the fortress of Ehmedek. Here the church of St. George of the Byzantine era is located, but due to the dilapidated state it is too forbidden to approach it too close. However, the main advantages of this Alanya landmark are not so much in its ancient buildings, but in breathtaking views from the very top of the fortress.

Church ruins

  • Address: Hisariçi Mahallesi, 07400 Alanya, Turkey.
  • Opening hours: daily from 08:00 to 17:00.
  • Entrance fee: 20 TL.

Another attraction worth seeing in Alanya in Turkey is a shipyard located near the walls of the city fortress. This is the only shipyard in the country that has survived to this day in such good condition.

Once upon a time, small wooden ships were built here, which later went sailing throughout the Mediterranean Sea.

Shipyard

Today, there are five arched workshops left from the building, and part of the building props, which you can independently study in the museum operating here, has been preserved.

Among its exhibits are the skeletons of ships, anchors and ancient instruments that provide a clear picture of how the construction of ships was carried out in the Middle Ages.

A visit to the museum will interest both adults and children. The shipyard is surrounded by a beautiful bay where you can swim .

Museum exhibit

  • Address: Tophane Mahallesi, Tersane Sk. No: 9, 07400 Alanya, Turkey.
  • The cost of visiting: 5 TL, but it will be more economical to purchase a single ticket, which includes entrance to other attractions (Red Tower + Shipyard = 8 TL, Red Tower + Shipyard + Damlatas Cave = 12 TL).

Spread close to the fortress, is a lively bay filled with pirate-style yachts and ships, making it is a great place to stroll .

Here you always have the opportunity to go on a boat tour for an additional fee.

In the afternoons it will be a picturesque boat trip, and in the evening you will find a real party on the deck with a foam disco and free drinks.

An excursion steam train runs here as well, rolling tourists through the main streets of the resort.

Ships in the harbor

A chain of various restaurants and bars stretches parallel to the harbor, where you can spend a pleasant evening admiring the sunset and the monumental views of the fortress.

Nearby is a shopping street that sells souvenirs, textiles, gold and other popular Turkish goods.

The harbor is located right in the center of Alanya, you can visit it yourself at any time. It will be interesting both day and night.

Harbor in Alanya

The authorities of Alanya seek to develop the resort, so every year something new appears in the city. Most recently, a culture and recreation park called Alanya Gardens was built here. The attraction lies high on a hill and pleases with a beautiful and comfortable arrangement. The territory of the park is decorated with gardens and fountains, here you will find a lot of amenities in the form of cafes, barbecue areas, children’s playgrounds and a concert amphitheater. On the territory there are several viewing platforms that unfold before the gaze all the beauty of Alanya: the sea, mountains, a busy city.

Gardens of Alanya

Many tourists still do not know about the new place, and when deciding what to see in Alanya on their own, they simply lose sight of it. The landmark of the park is the huge ALANYA inscription with a red heart, set high on a hill. You can get to the object by city bus number 8. Entrance to the Gardens of Alanya is open at any time, admission is free.

Among the attractions of Alanya in Turkey there are also interesting natural sites. The Dimchay River is famous for its large reservoir, which was built here in 2008. Surrounded by pine forests, the dam looks especially picturesque during the rainy season, when its waters are painted in azure. It offers panoramic views of the mountains and the valley, along which swift river flows.

Dimchay Reservoir

From the bottom at the foot of the reservoir are numerous restaurants serving national Turkish cuisine. The place is very popular among locals, but tourists know little about this corner of the resort. It is especially pleasant to relax in a cafe on the Dimchay River on a summer evening, when the mountain waters carry the long-awaited refreshing breeze and coolness. This attraction of Alanya in Turkey is not difficult to visit on your own. The dam is located only 15 km from the city center, and it is easy to get here by bus number 10.

  • Address: Kuzyaka Mahallesi, 07450 Alanya, Turkey.

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What else can you see on your own in Alanya and the surrounding area? It is definitely worth going to one of the largest caves in Turkey called Dim. It is best to combine this trip with a visit to the Dimchay River, because the objects are located just 20 minutes from each other. Dim Cave is more than a million years old, but was found only in 1986. It is located at a depth of 350 m, and its length exceeds 400 m. The cave consists of large and small halls where you can look at stalactites, stalagmites and ancient ceramic fragments. The sounds of a Turkish pipe are heard inside, which creates a mysterious atmosphere.

Dim Cave

Despite the fact that the object is conveniently equipped with paths and railings, it is better to visit it in sports shoes. The humidity here is 90% and the temperature is 20 ° C, so a light jacket may come in handy. To independently explore the entire attraction, it will take no more than 30 minutes. You can get here by bus number 10.

  • Address: Kestel Mahallesi, 07450 Alanya, Turkey.
  • Opening hours: daily from 09:00 to 18:30.
  • Cost of visit: 8 TL.

The last attraction worth seeing in Alanya is Damlatas Cave. It was discovered in 1948 during the construction of the pier: building materials were extracted from the mountain through explosions, as a result of one of which the grotto was opened. The cave is quite small and shallow, its length is not more than 45 m. Here you can look at stalactites and stalagmites, which are several millennia old. The walls are illuminated with beautiful lighting, but overall there is a twilight inside.

Damlatas cave

The cave is characterized by almost 100% humidity at a temperature of 24 ° C, and in its air the level of carbon dioxide is exceeded 10 times the norm. Therefore, breathing here is quite difficult, but the air in the grotto is considered healing. Damlatas is located in the very center of Alanya near the Cleopatra beach , so it is very easy to get here on your own (on foot or by bus number 4).

Entrance to Damlatas caves

  • Address: Çarşı Mahallesi, Damlataş Cd. No: 81, 07400 Alanya, Turkey.
  • Opening hours: daily from 10:00 to 19:00.
  • Entrance fee: 6 TL.

Indeed, the sights of Alanya (Turkey) are so diverse and interesting that they can become the main reason for a trip to the resort. It is important that almost all objects can be reached in a few minutes by public transport. At the same time, the cost of entrance tickets is not very high, and some places do not require payment at all. Now you know what to see in Alanya on your own. It remains only to draw up a plan of excursions, using the information from our article, and you are guaranteed an unforgettable vacation in Turkey.

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Beyond my Border

Alanya Turkey: 5 Things You MUST Do!

Like my solo trip around India , my decision to backpack Turkey was questioned by my parents since the beginning.

And to be honest, I can see why.

Online articles highlighted women’s safety issues, and news outlets stressed the need for female travelers to cover up. Be the people or the culture, my parents and friends all shared similar views Turkey’s conservative nature. Of course, I’m not saying that one should forgo all forms of safety measures while traveling.

But after two months teaching in and backpacking across the country, I can say that the Turkey I experienced was completely the opposite of these tales. In Alanya, many won’t even bat an eye to tourists wandering the streets in their two pieced bikinis!

As a beachside haven that sits in the province of Antalya, Alanya quickly became one of my favorites within the country. From its clear blue waters to caves and castles, below are some of my favorite things to do in this charming city!

The Best Things to do in Alanya Turkey

5. visit red tower (kızıl kule) lookout point.

The Alanya beach had it all–breezy sea breeze, bikini tops, bars, clubs, and happy, often  sometimes drunk, crowds. Although the city has a grand party reputation, I opted for night swims in the sea as opposed to nights out at clubs. Sounds of the city are muffled by the Mediterranean waves while a clear view of the golden Alayna castle is visible just above the cliffs.

alanya antalya turkey castle

Clearly, Alanya is a city of contrast. Rows and rows of red-bricked houses sat along the crystal clear sea, forming a beautiful variation in colors and mood. Its harbor is full of nightclubs and bars, the loud and vivid atmosphere contrasts the serenity of adhan, the Islamic call for prayers by residing mosques.

One of the best viewpoints of this site is at the Red Tower. The Kızıl Kule is not only a historical site in Alanya, but also a symbol of the city. There are a number of public buses that stop at the Red Tower. It is best to ask your hotel for the most optimal route. Alternatively, private cars and Blablacars can be hired without much trouble.

The combined tickets for Red Tower and Shipyard cost TL 8 and can be purchased from a booth at the base of the tower. There are a few levels to explore inside the structure. As the tower was built for defense purposes, most of the interiors were decorated with weaponry and artifacts.

The views on top were gorgeous and can be best enjoyed during the day time.

4. Wander around Alanya Castle, Turkey

alanya castle

Just a bit down the road from the actual castle gates, we found the most beautiful, secluded place by the walls. It overlooked the cliffs into the sunset.

Besides reaching the Alanya Castle with buses and taxis, the Alanya Teleferik is a new addition that’s added to the ease of accessing the top of the mountains. This cable car began operations in 2017 and is a great way to see the whole city. The ride begins at Damlatash beach and costs TL 18 for a round-trip adult ticket, and TL 10 for students.

Alanya Teleferik operates:  • Weekdays: 09:30 -18:00 in the winter and until 20:00 in the summer • Weekends: 09:30 – 18:00 in the winter and until 21:30 in the summer

3. Dine at Kale Panorama Restaurant in Alanya, Turkey

alanya antalya nightlife

After wandering around the castle for a few hours, we decided to have dinner at Kale Panorama Restaurant. The restaurant is definitely one of the best in Alanya. Halfway down the hill, it is a place most locals go for a night out. The price is very fair, with the chicken burger costing a mere TL 8. For US 2 we were feeding ourselves AND getting a view! I ended up going back three more times, for both the sunset and its night views.

nightview of the city

We spent the next few days hitchhiking around Alanya, visiting places such as the Damlatas Caves (which I loved) and the Dim Cave. Hitch-hiking in the area was really easy. People gladly picked us up, even in secluded regions up in the mountains. Not everyone spoke English, but my friend spoke some Turkish, so we didn’t have a hard time getting to places we needed to go 🙂

1. Sing-Along at Damlataş Cave & Dim Cave, Alanya, Turkey

dalaman cave

A walk around Dim cave lasted an hour, and the views outside are absolutely breathtaking!

While visiting the Damlataş cave, my friend began belting. His vocals, with all the echoes and whatnot, was absolutely mesmerizing. We did get the security’s attention, but he was kind enough to just warn us against it. (Apparently, the vibration is terrible for the walls).

Additional Information

Alanya turkey weather: when to go.

Alanya sits along the coast of the Mediterranean. Along with beautiful views, it enjoys pleasant weather consisting of sizzling summers and mild winters. However, Alanya’s cooler climate comes with rain and humidity, meaning that the best time to visit this city is between June and September.

Alanya Turkey: How to Get There

Depending on which city you are leaving from, there are a few options to get to Alanya Turkey. The bus ride is between US 5-10 from Antalya and approximately US 30 from Istanbul. From Antalya, the journey is around 2.5 hours and operators such as Akdeniz will depart from Antalya Otogarı. Flights and private transfers are also available.

We stayed in Alanya for 3 days. The accommodation was free as we couchsurfed . However, hotels and hostels are generally pretty cheap in Turkey.

Since we hitchhiked almost everywhere, we spent little to nothing on transportation. I would assume around TL 20 (US 6) were spent on buses around town. We opted for groceries and home cooking as opposed to eating out every day. In addition to the nights spent at Kale Panorama Restaurant, I paid around TL 40 (US 11) on food and wine.

My host from Side, being the amazing person that he is, drove us to Antalya . In total, I spent no more than US 30 during my 3-day stay in Alanya. After this trip, my friend and I went separate ways. I began my solo trip around Turkey, with the first stop in Cappadocia to see the famous hot air balloons (for free).

Happy Travels xx

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My favorite place in Alanya is Sealanya, the park where you can swim all day among the tropical fishes and ancient statues, amazing piece of paradise! And they have dolphin show as well

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I should check it out next time 🙂

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Alanya is such a beautiful holiday destination in Turkey, please be our guest next time when you come to Alanya and be our guests. There more places that we want to show you around Alanya.

It would be amazing to visit again 🙂

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Such an amazing content. and yes you are right. Alanya is very cheap for accomadation.

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We have been in alanya many times and we just love it! <3 So delicious food, places to visit and peoples. Some bazar workers are little pushy and its actually stressful. We always go to the local restaurants and normal clothing shops, where we can eat and shop in peace without pushing etc. Last summer 2018 we went to the pirate boat trip, rafting and to the Pamukkale for one day. All trips were amazing, love it!!

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Wow looks amazing. Glad you felt safe and are telling people it’s okay to travel to these places they usually wouldn’t go out of fear. Glad you had a good time. Can’t wait to read about the hot air ballon.

Yes! Wish more people would venture out of their comfort zones before placing judgements 🙂

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The Ultimate Alanya Travel Guide For First Timers

The Ultimate Alanya Travel Guide For First Timers

Alanya is a beach town in the Southern Coast of Turkey. It is often not considered while planning a Turkey Itinerary not just because of its more popular neighbor Antalya, but also because of a lack of sufficient information on the internet. We have created this Alanya Travel Guide to provide all the necessary information you need to plan a trip here including how to reach, where to stay, things to do and also comparison between Alanya and Antalya.

We spent 3 days in Alanya, that also included a morning in Antalya, during our Two Weeks in Turkey . Check out our Turkey Itinerary to know how to accommodate Alanya without missing Antalya during your visit to Turkey.

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, the follow blog posts may prove to be the difference between a good trip and a GREAT trip!

  • Our comprehensive guide on visiting Turkey: 2 weeks in Turkey Itinerary
  • A Practical guide to visiting Istanbul: 5 days in Istanbul Itinerary
  • Get the best of your visit to Cappadocia: 4 Days Cappadocia Itinerary
  • If you are a vegetarian like us and looking for Turkey vegetarian food
  • All the amazing things to do in Turkey: Unique things to do in Turkey
  • Turkey Shopping Guide: Get the best Turkish souvenirs

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Quick overview

Alanya Travel Guide: Alanya Vs. Antalya

Antalya is a major beach city and tourist hub in Turkey known for its beach town vibes, wild cruise parties, day trips to nearby attractions and low cost beach resorts.

Guess what? Alanya does all this and better!

Alanya Travel Guide - Sister Cities

Here is why we feel Alanya is a better beach destination than Antalya:

  • Attractions: If you google things to do in Antalya, 50% of those attractions are located in Alanya. People go for day trips to Alanya Castle, the Red Tower, Koprulu Canyon. All of these things, are in Alanya. Why waste 4 hours of your precious time, traveling between Antalya and Alanya?
  • Activities: All the activities and day trips that can be done from Antalya like the Dim Cave, private yacht parties, pirate cruise parties, etc. can be arranged from Alanya itself and for half the price!
  • Accommodation: Resorts in Alanya are cheaper and offer greater value than the ones in Antalya. We paid $50 per night for two people which included an amazing room in a 5-star resort, three meals a day, drinks, discounts on activities (which are already cheap) and also free food and drinks on the beach! No other town around the Mediterranean Sea offers a deal like this.
  •   Family Friendly: While there is no dearth of parties in Alanya, but there are parts of town that are perfect to visit with your children. Most resorts have a plethora of activities for your kids like a pool or a jungle gym while the parents can lounge by the beach and sip free cocktails.
  • Antalya: Alanya is not directly connected to rest of Turkey. So you will be arriving in Antalya first and then proceeding to Alanya. You can make the most of this arrangement and visit the unique Attractions of Antalya in a single morning.

Alanya Travel Guide: How To Reach Alanya

As explained above, you will have to reach Antalya first in order to reach Alanya.

There are mainly two ways to reach Antalya by public transportation:

The bus system in Turkey is one of the most advanced in the world. This was our preferred mode of transportation during our Two Week Trip to Turkey.

Alanya Travel Guide - Bus Infotainment system

If you travel by an overnight bus, you not only save time but also money on one night of accommodation. The buses are cheap, very comfortable because of reclining chairs, have an entertainment system for every seat and have frequent restroom stops for the convenience of the passengers.

Numerous overnight buses run regularly to Antalya from Istanbul, Goreme (Cappadocia), Denizli (Pamukkale).

Upon reaching Antalya, take a shuttle bus to Alanya that runs every half an hour from Antalya Bus Terminal.

Air travel in Turkey is quite cheap. Sometimes comparable to a bus ride!

Take a flight to Antalya and then a shuttle bus to Alanya as explained above.

We chose to travel by bus because of the convenience it offered to catch the shuttle to Alanya and to store our luggage as we explored Antalya.

Alanya Travel Guide: How To Include Antalya in your Trip to Alanya

Alanya Travel Guide - Antalya Hadiran's Gate

We chose to stay in Alanya to relax in the middle days of our Turkey Itinerary that was packed with activities. As explained above, we were in Antalya because it was the only way to reach Alanya.

However, it seemed criminal to be in Antalya and not visit its most famous and unique attractions: Old Town Kaleici and the Antalya Archaeological Museum . Here’s how you can include Antalya on your way to Alanya:

Select a bus that reaches Antalya at around 7 AM in the morning like we did.

You can freshen up in the squeaky clean public restrooms of the terminal and drop your luggage at the safe and reliable storage facilities available.

The storage charges were 6 TL (~$1) per bag for up to 24 hours when we visited.

Alanya Travel Guide - Luggage Storage in Antalya Bus station

The bus terminal is located 9 kms from Old Town Kaleici and it will take you about 20 minutes in a public bus.

This way, you can explore Antalya Old Town early in the morning before the crowds arrive and have breakfast at a beach side café.

Thereafter, proceed to Antalya Archaeological museum that opens at 9 in the morning and is only a 15-minute walk away from Old Town Kaleici.

It would take about 2 hours (more if you are a history buff) to explore the amazing museum that has nearly 5,000 exhibits from the Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman eras.

After visiting the museum, head back to the bus terminal, collect your luggage from the cloak room and catch your bus to Alanya.

By following this route, you shall reach your Alanya Hotel exactly at the time of your check-in.

Alanya Travel Guide: Must Do Things in Alanya

Stay in a cheap, all-inclusive resorts.

Alanya Travel Guide - All inclusive hotels

Alanya is one of the cheapest places in the world when it comes to 5-star, all-inclusive accommodation.

There are plenty of resorts offering the best amenities like beach access, swimming pools, Turkish Bath and spas.

We recommend staying in a resort near the famous Kleopetra beach as that will make visiting all the other places in this list very convenient.

Our resort cost us approximately $50 per room per night and included accommodation, Wi-Fi, drinks, buffet spreads for breakfast, lunch and dinner, bar snacks, a massage session at the spa and free drinks and food at a beach shack on Kleopetra Beach.

The above price is per room, meaning it’ll cost only $25 per person per night to stay in Alanya!

If you are a vegetarian in Turkey like us, you will be pleased to know that 70% of the menus in the buffet spreads of these hotels are vegetarian friendly.

Alanya Castle

Alanya Travel Guide - Alanya Castle

The Alanya Castle, also sometimes known as the Alanya fortress, is a 6 km stretch of walls that sit atop a plateau overlooking the Mediterranean sea.

The castle walls house the old city of Alanya away from the new, bustling city down below. You can take the gondola/cable car from Kleopetra Beach to reach the entrance of the castle. Explore the castle area on foot to discover the ruins of the ancient city, beautiful gardens and spectacular views of the coastline from the top.

Alanya Travel Guide - Red Tower

The Red tower is an extension of Alanya Castle. It is an octagonal, 30 metre high tower that used to be a defence tower during the Seljuk area.

You can climb up the tower for as little as a dollar to enjoy some gorgeous views of the harbour.

From the top of the tower, you can also see the walls that connect the harbour to the Alanya castle.

Damlatas Cave

Alanya Travel Guide - Damlatas Cave

The Damlatas caves are right at Kleopetra Beach near the cable car station for Alanya castle. These caves were discovered by accident while building the harbour in Alanya. 

During World War 2, the German soldiers hid here and it’s said that the air inside the cave healed their respiratory problems.

As the cave is pretty small, you can visit it in about 20 min. There are benches provided in the cave in case if you want stay around for a longer period of time.

If you have time, we recommend visiting the Dim cave instead. This cave is much larger compared to the Damlatas Cave and has a beautiful lagoon at the lower most level!

Kleopetra Beach

Alanya Travel Guide - Kleopetra Beach

Kleopetra beach is a very popular beach strip of Alanya. Most of the resorts are located near this beach.

The beach side is lined with very picturesque pathways making them an ideal place to walk or cycle around.

Numerous beach restaurants inhabit the beach offering cheap drinks, good food and clear views of the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean sea.

The beach restaurants have tie-ups with several resorts, so if you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort like we were during our 3-day trip to Alanya, you’ll get free food and drinks right at the beach!

Alanya Travel Guide: Must Have Experiences in Alanya

Sunset foam party cruise.

Alanya Travel Guide - Party Cruise

A very popular experience among solo backpackers as well as couples, Sunset Party Cruises from Alanya are a lot cheaper than those from Antalya.

We highly recommend this experience where you shall be picked up from your hotel and taken on a 4-hour dinner cruise. Unlimited soft drinks, wine and beer shall be included in the price.

You shall be able to admire Alanya’s coastline from afar and will also participate in some boat jumping and swimming in the sea.

You will also be able to participate in very lively foam party on the cruise before dinner or sunbathe on the deck. Check out the pictures of the foam party here . They’re wild!

Paragliding

Alanya Travel Guide - Paragliding

Paragliding has become a hugely popular thing to do in Alanya.

If you are not a certified paraglider, you will have to book a Tandem Paragliding Experience . You shall be safely secured to a certified instructor who shall control your jump and your flight.

All you will have to do is marvel at the beautiful coastline and the views of Alanya Castle from above.

River Rafting and Safari in Koprulu Canyon

Alanya Travel Guide - River Rafting

The Koprulu Canyon National Park located about 70 kms from Alanya is a very popular spot for outdoor activities.

We recommend going for a Jeep Safari and River rafting experience . Book this experience that includes lunch as there are not many restaurants around the canyon.

The tour includes transportation from your hotel to the canyon, a jeep safari, a river rafting experience, all safety gear, lunch and the services of a tour leader.

For additional thrill, you can opt for a Buggy Cross Safari instead of a Jeep Safari.

If Road Safari’s are not your thing, opt for a River Kayaking experience which is equally thrilling if not more.

So that brings us to the end of our article. We did these activities in the three days that we spent in Alanya before leaving for Istanbul to spend the remainder of our 5 Day Istanbul Trip .

These three days were a welcome change from our otherwise packed Turkey Trip.

Hence, our final advice to you for Alanya is to not pack it up with activities. It is the best place to just chill and do absolutely nothing.

Hope this article helps you capitalize on your trip to Alanya.

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16 Things to Do in Alanya

Alanya

Alanya is one of the districts of Antalya and has more than 20 blue flag beaches. Apart from its beaches, Alanya is one of the holiday regions that attract tourists with its places to visit. If you are researching about touristic places in Alanya, you can learn about 16 best places in the continuation of the article.

Table of Contents

Places in Alanya Center

Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi). Is an important historical place, one of the symbols of Alanya region of Antalya province. Do not end your Alanya tour without seeing the unique and fascinating view of Alanya Castle. While visiting the castle, you can take a break with this enchanting view and dine in many places.

You will be able to see important places such as Cleopatra beach and Damlatas beach from a distance from Alanya Castle, and you will not forget this fascinating view. You can reach the castle by private car, bus or cable car.

Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi)

Alanya Lighthouse (Alanya Deniz Feneri). Alanya Lighthouse, which was built by French contractors during the Ottoman Period, is close to the Alanya marina. It is one of the places visited by local and foreign tourists to take a walk, get fresh air or take pictures.

alanya lighthouse

Alanya Marina (Alanya Yat Limanı). Is in the city center. Alanya Marina, located between Alanya Municipality and Red Tower, is intertwined with the city and is a must-visit port. You should add it to your sightseeing list, there are Alanya marina walking area, entertainment venues, cafes and restaurants.

It is especially beautiful in the evening. There are tour boats and hosting thousands of people from all over the world, this place is a beautiful port to visit. You can visit Alanya Marina, which is also close to nightlife venues in Alanya, during the day and continue to have fun in nightclubs at night.

alanya marina

Alanya Red tower (Kızılkule). Was built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I in the 13th century and has become the symbol of the region. Located in Alanya Harbor, Red tower has been used for military purposes for centuries. Red tower  was opened to visitors in 1979. It is an octagonal planned tower and fascinates with its magnificent view from the upper terrace.

Alanya Red Tower, which was built to respond to the attacks that may come from the sea, has an octagonal plan and each wall is 12.5 meters wide. 

red tower

Historical Alanya Shipyard (Tarihi Alanya Tersanesi). Shipyard is 57 meters long and 40 meters deep. There is an embossed inscription of 5 lines at the entrance of the historical Alanya Shipyard.

The shipyard was built to take advantage of sunlight. The shipyard receives light from a hole in the ceiling. It is a very important place in terms of history, it is one of the most visited places by people. If you happen to be in Alanya for a trip plan, you should definitely stop by this shipyard.

historical alanya shipyard

Alanya Museum

Alanya Archeology Museum (Alanya Arkeoloji Müzesi). The museum has been serving people since 1967 with its many valuable historical collections, from the statue of Heracles to coin collections, from glass and mosaic works to artifacts from the Bronze Age. You should definitely add the Alanya Archeology Museum, which has 14 indoor and 1 outdoor hall, to your sightseeing tour.

Many artifacts from the Seljuk Period and the Ottoman Empire Period will attract your attention. There are ethnography and archeology departments in Alanya Archeology Museum. Bronze Heracles Statue is exhibited to people in a separate hall and this statue is the most valuable part of the museum.

Alanya Archeology Museum

Canyon in Alanya

Sapadere Canyon (Sapadere Kanyonu). It is one of the most beautiful canyons in Antalya and you can visit it for many purposes. In summer, you can swim in the ice-cold waters in some parts of the canyon, you can take a walk in and around the Canyon, and you can taste local delicacies in the cafes and restaurants around the Canyon.

It is in Sapadere village, it is 750 meters long, it is a place that has become a tourism area. It is 40 kilometers from the center of Alanya. 

Sapadere Canyon (Sapadere Kanyonu)

National Park in Alanya

Dim River National Park (Dim Çayı Milli Parkı)

Dwarf cave Alanya (Cüceler Mağarası). Is close to the Sapadere canyon in Alanya.   The cave was opened to the public in 2012. Dwarf Cave consists of 6 galleries. There is a walking area of ​​180 meters between the trees and at the end of this road, the cave is reached. You have to pay a certain amount of cash at the entrance of the Dwarfs Cave, which has a magnificent view.

Dwarf Cave Alanya (Cüceler Mağarası

Damlatas Cave (Damlataş Mağarası). Is a cave by the sea in Alanya district of Antalya. The cave got this name because of the drops of water dripping from the stalactites. Damlatas Cave, which was found as a result of dynamite ignition, is the first cave of Turkey opened to tourism. There is a 50-meter passage area at the entrance of the cave.

Then you can visit the cave with a 15-meter passage and a cylindrical space. A certain amount of entrance fee is charged. Asthma patients who come under the control of a doctor are treated in the cave, it is a cave famous for its air. In summer and winter seasons, the atmosphere of the cave remains the same and never changes.

Damlatas Cave (Damlataş Mağarası)

Dim Cave (Dim Mağarası). Is Turkey’s second largest cave opened to visitors. There are stalagmites, stalactites and travertine formations in the 360-meter-long cave. Dim Cave, 11 kilometers from Alanya, consists of 4 galleries. Dim Cave is 232 meters above sea level. Restaurants, picnic areas and tea gardens offer different alternatives in the region. The interior and location of the cave will impress you with its fascinating view.

Dim Cave (Dim Mağarası)

Ancient City

Syedra Ancient City (Syedra Antik Kenti). In terms of its location, the Ancient City is in an important place. We see the name Syedra for the first time on the coins minted during the reign of the Roman Emperor Tiberius. The intersection of two big streets, the streets with stairs, the monumental gate, the magnificent exterior are the features of the outer location of the city surrounded by walls.

You will definitely be impressed by the magnificent and fascinating structure of the Syedra Ancient City, which is located within the borders of Seki Village, approximately 20 kilometers from the Gazipaşa and Alanya highway. Remains of the history of the ancient city of Syedra until the 13th century were found. 

Syedra Ancient City (Syedra Antik Kenti)

Alanya Beaches

Alanya Beach (Alanya Plajları). Is one of the most famous holiday destinations and tourism centers in Turkey. There are many beaches along the length of the coastline. People come to Alanya district of Antalya province from many parts of the world to enjoy the sea and see this magnificent view.

You will meet people swimming, resting and watching the scenery on many beaches on the coast of Alanya. The prices of the beaches are economical and affordable, you can enjoy the sea on the beach you want and the most suitable for you. There are also beaches that are free to the public, but a certain amount is charged for sunbed or umbrella services.

alanya beach

Damlatas Beach (Damlataş Plajı). Is very close to the center of Alanya. It is also a very close beach to Damlatas Cave. Damlatas Beach has a slightly wavy sea, families with children should pay special attention to children here . Dressing cabin, shower and toilet facilities are also at the service of the public. You have to pay a certain fee for umbrella and sun lounger rental, but there is no entrance fee to the beach. You should add Damlatas Beach to the list of places you must see, with its wide sandy beach and nearby accommodation services with its clean sand and magnificent view.

dripstone beach

Cleopatra Beach (Kleopatra Plajı). Is famous around the world. Because it is rumored that the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra went to the sea here. The depth of the beach is about 10 meters. You can come to Cleopatra Beach for a nice and comfortable holiday with your family.

There is no entrance fee to the beach, but a certain fee is charged for renting umbrellas and sun loungers. 

cleopatra beach alanya

Alanya Shipyard Beach (Tersane Plajı). Beach is one of the many popular beaches in Alanya. It is a beach where you can take beautiful photos and be impressed by its wonderful view. A magnificent journey with crystal turquoise water and brown sand awaits you at Shipyard Beach.

Access to the beach is free. On the beach you can swim, sunbathe, relax and relieve your tiredness. Swim as much as you want in the deep blue waters. If you are going to Antalya Alanya for sightseeing, add this beach to your list of places to visit, you can also tour with boat tours.

shipyard beach

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7 of the best cities to visit in Turkey

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Few countries so close to home can tick off as many travel essentials as Turkey , with flights from the UK taking around four hours, or about four days if you take the train.

The country has warm weather in both summer and winter, while being home to beautiful coastal areas , renowned historic sights, buoyant party resorts and an eclectic range of cities.

It’s no secret that Turkey is an excellent holiday destination. But less well known is the variety on show within its cities, a surprising number of which will keep you busy over a weekend or even longer.

Istanbul is many visitors’ first taste of the country, with its high-octane way of life and excellent range of things to do providing a memorable introduction to Turkish culture, history, cuisine and nightlife.

In Turkey’s south west, the Turquoise Coast – also known as the Turkish Riviera – is home to cities such as Bodrum and Antalya . They combine distinct heritage with striking coastal beauty, the perfect spots to visit in the midst of a beach holiday in this laid-back part of the world.

In the capital, Ankara , meanwhile, a vibrant energy attracts Turkish and foreign visitors alike.

But in a country so large, and so blessed with captivating cities, it can be difficult to know where to begin. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best cities in Turkey to help you plan your next adventure , whether it’s history, nightlife or culture that gets you going.

Istanbul is the most visited Turkish city by foreign tourists

With a population of around 16 million people, Istanbul is a city that seemingly never sleeps. Bisected by the emerald waters of the Bosphorous Strait (which you can tour by boat for marvelous views), this is the place where two continents meet, and this fusion of distinct cultures has created a vibrant city whose energetic way of life often borders on chaotic.

A city steeped in the history of both Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been the home of three different empires over almost three millennia, and today still preserves some remnants of these vastly different cultures. Ottoman and Byzantine influences dominate, particularly in the Sultanahmet district, home to many of the city’s must-see sights.

Prime among these are the Blue Mosque, with its towering minarets, and the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that was originally constructed as a church, reflecting the changing influences that the city has been subject to. Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are the district’s other main attractions, though it pays to explore further afield in areas like Balat, originally the city’s Greek Orthodox and Armenian neighbourhood, and Fener.

For a more contemporary taste of Istanbul, Arnavutköy is the heart of the city’s nightlife scene, while SALT Beyoğlu hosts art exhibitions and film screenings.

Read more on Turkey travel :

  • Best Turkey holiday destinations
  • All aboard the night train to Istanbul: the reality of one of the ‘world’s best’ rail journeys
  • Turkey’s best winter sun spots to visit

Antalya is the fifth most populous city in the country

Most years, Antalya competes with Istanbul for the title of ‘most visited Turkish city’. Though just a fraction of the size, Antalya, the capital of the country’s Turquoise Coast, punches above its weight in the tourism stakes thanks to a characterful old town, a beautiful harbour and dozens of beautiful surrounding beaches.

Some of the best nearby beaches include Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara, and while many choose to stay in one of the various beachfront resorts that populate the surrounding coastline, exploring Antalya itself is certainly worth leaving your sun lounger for.

Its charming old town, known as Kaleiçi, consists of labyrinthine streets housing a series of mosques, ancient walls, russet-roofed stone buildings and parks that attest to the influence of Ottoman culture and architecture. These narrow alleys snake down to the equally idyllic harbour, where a slew of cafes and restaurants welcome revellers throughout the day and night.

Bodrum was once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Bodrum is best known as an ideal spot for a Turkish summer holiday. Set among rolling green hills, it has an enviable coastal location, pristine beaches like Yahsi and Aspat, a variety of tourist sites and lively nightlife for those who seek it.

A range of resorts, from the dazzling high-end to the more affordable and family-friendly, cater to all sorts of tourists, whether you’re looking for parties on the marina or want to delve into the region’s history. There’s plenty of Bodrum’s past to explore; once known as Halicarnassus, it still contains a mausoleum, ancient ruins, a Roman theatre and the 700-year-old Bodrum Castle.

Like any coastal tourist city, there’s plenty more to see and do in Bodrum away from ruins and sun loungers. Scuba diving is a popular activity in nearby Gokova Bay, while boat trips around the peninsula or the Dalyan River are a good way to spend an afternoon, as is wine tasting at Karnas Vineyards . The town’s proximity to Kos means that tourists and locals alike will often spend the day in Greece too.

Ankara was declared the capital of Turkey in 1923

Turkey’s capital city may be overshadowed by world-renowned Istanbul, but Ankara offers visitors an experience of Turkey’s ‘other’ side, away from chaotic cities and party-centric coastal resorts. This is a youthful, exciting city that fuses the old and the new. It is fuelled by its relatively new status as a major city, and vibrant modern areas such as studenty Kizilay and more upmarket Kavaklidere.

But Ankara has been careful not to forget its past. High above the city sits the Anit Kabir, the vast mausoleum of the father of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who led the War of Independence and bestowed the city’s status as capital. Down below in Hisar, Roman monuments like those at Ulus sit alongside Byzantine citadel walls that enclose Ottoman-era mini villages. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Museum of the War of Independence are two more historical highlights, while the parks of Kugulu and Genclik provide some much-needed green space.

Izmir is home to around 4.5 million people

Izmir is sometimes overlooked in favour of nearby Bodrum or Marmaris, but Turkey’s third largest city is home to plenty of arts, culture and a rich heritage, as well as the idyllic coastal resorts of Cesme, Alacati and Urla.

While the city’s past was characterised by activity around the Bay of Izmir, Konak Pier and the impressive city promenade (known as Kordon), the modern-day symbol of the city is its 20th-century Clock Tower.

It is located in the middle of Konak Square, in the district of the same name, which is also the gateway of the maze-like 17 th -century Kemeralti Market. This Turkish bazaar stretches across the city into the Roman agora, with the ancient Kadifekale fort being the other main historic site.

Edirne was capital of the Ottoman Empire before Constantinople

Located on the border with Greece and Bulgaria , Edirne is a city with a more European feel than other Turkish counterparts, but one whose architecture, mosques, bazaars and palace provide a constant reminder that you are in a former Ottoman capital.

Edirne sits along the banks of both the Maritza and Tunca rivers, surrounded by verdant plains and with much of the same white-washed, russet-roofed building styles as Antalya. The city’s main landmark is the 16th-century Selimiye Mosque, an impressive Unesco-listed structure that has become a symbol of Edirne. Other mosques, such as Muradiye, Old Mosque and the Sultan Beyezid II Complex, adorn the city skyline, while a series of bridges over the Tunca also hark back to Ottoman times, and provide a base for summer relaxation and mild swims.

Regular ferries operate between Marmaris and both Rhodes and Symi in Greece

Marmaris is a popular coastal town, welcoming thousands of tourists every summer despite its modest size. It benefits from a striking location on the Aegean Sea and surrounded by dense forest and towering hills, with a coastline that is home to golden sand lapped by azure waters along beaches like Urban or Long Beach.

Like Antalya, the town begins in its yacht-filled marina, with a maze of narrow streets slowly snaking back into the old town, itself a sea of red roofs and white-washed buildings. Marmaris Castle, the museum, the bazaar and Jinan Gardens are worth exploring to take in history, a spot of shopping and a pleasant stroll, before ending the day on aptly named Bar Street, the centre of the city’s often raucous nightlife.

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  1. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Alanya

    By Passport01905576991. A beutiful cave in cleopatra beach. See ways to experience (27) 11. Alanya Arkeoloji Muzesi. 223. Speciality Museums. By Blanquinha. Inside there are coins that are ancient, there is jewelery, there are so many sarcophagi with Arabic, Greek, Turkish...

  2. 12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Alanya

    The best time to visit Alanya if you're here specifically for its resort life and beach activities are the months of June, July, August, and September when the tourism season kicks into high gear. In the peak season months of July and August, the average temperature is 28 degrees Celsius, ranging between 21 and 31 degrees, and the weather is ...

  3. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Alanya

    10. Damlatas Caves. 1,355. Caverns & Caves. By Passport01905576991. A beutiful cave in cleopatra beach. See ways to experience (27) 11. Alanya Arkeoloji Muzesi.

  4. 15 Best Things to Do in Alanya (Turkey)

    On the first floor is a small ethnographic museum with tools and handicrafts reflecting the Turkmen culture in the Taurus Mountains. 3. Kleopatra Beach. Starting at the western foot of that promontory is Alanya's main beach, a long gentle arc of coarse sand bathed by low-to-moderate surf.

  5. 15 Exciting Things To Do In Alanya You Cannot Miss

    Interestingly, the Red Tower is such an iconic building in Turkish culture that it features on the back of the old 250,000 lira banknote as well as being on Alanya's city flag. Top tip: Make sure to bring your swimsuit and towel, as the beach under the tower is a wonderful place to swim. 3. Sunbathe on Cleopatra Beach.

  6. 22 Very Best Things to Do in Alanya

    A visit to Alanya Castle is truly one of the best things to do in Alanya. Turkish name: Alanya Kalesi. / Entrance fee: 10 TL per person. 2. Turkish bath. To start your holiday in Alanya in the best way, you've got to visit a hammam. It's the ultimate in pampering and one of the best things to do in Alanya - and Turkey in general.

  7. Alanya Turkey Guide

    3. Visit The Iconic Red Tower. The Red Tower in Alanya is the main site in the old city, and it is used in many depictions of the town, including the regional flag. Built in the 13th century, the tower was built as a lookout and defense mechanism to keep an eye out for any incoming attacks over the Mediterranean Sea.

  8. Must-see attractions Alanya, Eastern Mediterranean

    Discover the best attractions in Alanya including Alanya Castle, Tersane, and Ehmedek. Search. My trips. Saves; eLibrary; Account settings; Sign out; Destinations. Best in Travel. Featured. ... Alanya. Every city in Turkey has its Atatürk statue, and Alanya's presides over the main street on the eastern edge of the central city. Belediye. Alanya.

  9. 30 Best Things To Do in Alanya

    5. Alanya Archaeological Museum. The Alanya Archeology Museum is located in the very center of Alanya, on Ismet Hilmi Balcı Street behind Alanya Castle and Damlataş Cave. Alanya is a city with a very rich historical heritage in every aspect. However, you don't have a lot of chances to visit a cultural places in Alanya.

  10. 36 of the Best Things to Do in Alanya Turkey

    Alanya Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Turkey making it one of the best places to visit in Alanya Turkey. It was built by Alladin Keykubat, Seljuk Turks Sultan, in the 13th Century to protect the city from invading forces. The walls of the fortress stretch 6500 metres and there was a total of 93 towers and 140 ...

  11. Alanya, Türkiye 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    Full-Day Alanya Jeep Safari to Taurus Mountains Guided Tour. 9. from $17 per adult. Jeep Safari to Taurus Mountains with Lunch at Dimcay River. 90. from $24 per adult. Sapadere Canyon Jeep Tour and Village Visit from Alanya. 13. from $33 per adult.

  12. 10 Things To Do In Alanya Turkey

    You should definitely visit Alanya Castle and explore its fascinating history and breathtaking views. Alanya Castle is a must-see attraction in Alanya, Turkey, known for its rich history and impressive architecture. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been witness to numerous historical events.

  13. Top Things to Do in Alanya: A Complete Guide for Exploring the City

    Alanya used to have pirates and a sultan ruling over it, and now it's a mix of old stories and modern charm, just like waves hitting its pretty shores.This holiday town on Turkey's southwest coast has a lot of things to do, with interesting old places and the blue Mediterranean sea in the background.. Alanya is a must-visit if you want a place with fun stuff, relaxing times, and ...

  14. How To Spend The Best Days in Alanya, Turkey

    Dim Cave. Dim cave, second largest cave in Turkey, is located in the Dim Valley which is named after the Dim stream. It is located 14km away from Alanya city center. Thanks to the stalactites and stalagmites embellishing the whole cave it's one of the prettiest caves in Turkey. At the end of the cave there is a 200 m2 wide lake.

  15. What to See in Alanya Turkey: 12 Best Places to Visit

    This beautiful beach, also the most famous beach in Alanya, takes its name from the Egyptian queen Cleopatra's love of this bay. Cleopatra beach, which is truly worthy of queens, is at the top of the list what to see in Alanya due to its approximately 2.5 km long gold sands and clear sea.

  16. 10 Best Things to Do in Alanya

    The first floor is a museum, but the best reason to visit can be found at its highest level. Climb its winding stone steps to admire the panoramic views across Alanya and its bay. Location: Çarşı, İskele Cd. No. 102, 07400 Alanya, Antalya, Türkiye

  17. Travel Guide to Alanya, Turkey

    The temperature is somewhere between 9-20 degrees and there's a much greater risk of rain. Although the temperature is often comfortable in the spring and autumn in Alanya, it is still recommended to visit Alanya in the summer months. There are also significantly more tourists in the summer, creating a true holiday vibe.

  18. 9 best places to see in Alanya

    Address: Tophane Mahallesi, Tersane Sk. No: 9, 07400 Alanya, Turkey. Opening hours: daily from 09:00 to 19:00. The cost of visiting: 5 TL, but it will be more economical to purchase a single ticket, which includes entrance to other attractions (Red Tower + Shipyard = 8 TL, Red Tower + Shipyard + Damlatas Cave = 12 TL).

  19. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Alanya

    By Passport01905576991. A beutiful cave in cleopatra beach. See ways to experience (27) 11. Alanya Arkeoloji Muzesi. 223. Speciality Museums. By Blanquinha. Inside there are coins that are ancient, there is jewelery, there are so many sarcophagi with Arabic, Greek, Turkish...

  20. Alanya Turkey: 5 Things You MUST Do!

    The Best Things to do in Alanya Turkey. 5. Visit Red Tower (Kızıl Kule) Lookout Point. The Alanya beach had it all-breezy sea breeze, bikini tops, bars, clubs, and happy, often sometimes drunk, crowds. Although the city has a grand party reputation, I opted for night swims in the sea as opposed to nights out at clubs.

  21. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Alanya (Updated 2024)

    By Passport01905576991. A beutiful cave in cleopatra beach. See ways to experience (27) 11. Alanya Arkeoloji Muzesi. 223. Speciality Museums. By Blanquinha. Inside there are coins that are ancient, there is jewelery, there are so many sarcophagi with Arabic, Greek, Turkish...

  22. The Ultimate Alanya Travel Guide For First Timers

    Alanya Travel Guide: Must Do Things in Alanya Stay in a Cheap, All-inclusive Resorts Alanya is full of cheap luxury resorts like this one. Alanya is one of the cheapest places in the world when it comes to 5-star, all-inclusive accommodation.

  23. 16 Things to Do in Alanya

    Alanya is one of the districts of Antalya and has more than 20 blue flag beaches. Apart from its beaches, Alanya is one of the holiday regions that attract tourists with its places to visit. If you are researching about touristic places in Alanya, you can learn about 16 best places in the continuation of the article.

  24. 7 of the best cities to visit in Turkey

    Most years, Antalya competes with Istanbul for the title of 'most visited Turkish city'. Though just a fraction of the size, Antalya, the capital of the country's Turquoise Coast, punches ...