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A panoramic view of Alanya harbour at night

Things to do in  Alanya

Medieval ruins and beautiful beaches

Part-historic seaport, part-modern-day beach resort, Alanya remains one of the most atmospheric cities along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. While sunseekers head to the sandy beaches and turquoise waters, adventurers also will find plenty of things to do in Alanya. Hike up to the medieval castle, take in the views from the seafront Red Tower, or set sail on a traditional pirate ship from the marina before joining locals to shop and dine at the bustling bazaar.

Top 8 attractions in Alanya

Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi)

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Standing proud on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the city, medieval Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi) is Alanya’s defining landmark. Encircled by 4 miles (6 kilometers) of walls, the Inner Fortress (Iç Kale) houses the remains of an 11th-century church, while the Ehmedek Castle area hosts ruins dating back to ancient Greek times.More

Cleopatra Beach (Kleopatra Plaji)

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Beloved by sun-worshippers the world over, Cleopatra Beach (Kleopatra Plajı is a 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer expanse of golden sand framed by the blue Mediterranean. With dramatic views of hilltop Alanya Castle, indulgent beach clubs, plus a range of water sports, most travelers consider it Alanya’s best beach.More

Alanya Shipyard (Alanya Tersanesi)

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Stretching more than 180 feet (55 meters) along the rocky coast of Alanya’s historic seaport, Alanya Shipyard (Alanya Tersanesi) dates back to the 3rd century BC. Today, it’s a popular attraction for visitors to Alanya and remains one of the best-preserved ancient docklands along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.More

Damlatas Cave (Damlatas Magarasi)

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Adorned with 15,000 years worth of stalactites, the small-yet-perfectly-formed Damlatas Cave is one of Alanya’s signature sights. Discovered in 1948 while the new harbor was being built, the humidity and constant temperature of the cave are said to have therapeutic properties.More

Red Tower (Kizil Kule)

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The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule) is the most well known tower in Alanya Castle, Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye). The castle was built in the 13th century and was used as a defensive fortification until the time of the Ottoman Empire. Today it is a museum offering visitors a chance to explore the history of this area. The view from the castle is striking due to is location 820 feet high on a rocky peninsula that sticks out into the Mediterranean Sea. From here you can see the beach town of Alanya, the sea itself, the Pamphylian plain and Cilician mountains.The Red Tower stands 95 feet tall and is one of 140 towers that surround the castle. It is the start and end of four miles of walls that once protected the castle from invaders. The walls pass through the battlements, the Citadel, several bastions, the arsenal, and the shipyard before reconnecting with the Red Tower.More

Sapadere Canyon (Sapadere Kanyonu)

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Rocky mountain gorges, turquoise waters, and cascading waterfalls await adventurers at Sapadere Canyon. Formed by thousands of years of water and ice erosion, the natural wonder provides an idyllic spot for hiking and swimming with its 1,300-foot-high (400-meter) cliffs, lush foliage, and scenic backdrop of the Taurus Mountains.More

Alanya Ataturk House Museum (Alanya Atatürk Evi Müzesi)

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The 2-story residence where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk—the first President of Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye)—stayed during official visits between 1930 and 1935 is now a museum dedicated to the legendary revolutionary. Filled with personal effects and historic items, the Alanya Ataturk House Museum (Alanya Atatürk Evi Müzesi) is a fascinating tribute to Atatürk’s visits to Antalya.More
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Water Planet Aquapark

Water Planet Aquapark

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The biggest water park on Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) Mediterranean coast sits southeast of Antalya in between Manavgat and Alanya, overlooking the sparkling turquoise sea. With 24 rides from family slides to Kamikaze chutes, the Water Planet Aquapark is a fun-filled day out for the whole family. There’s a splash pool full of interactive animated toys for toddlers to enjoy while all kids love floating around the Lazy Rivers and splashing in the wave pools. Several adrenaline-pumping slides are perfect for thrill-seeking teens, including the spiraling Black Hole and the Four Twisters. If that’s not enough, try Water Planet Aqua Park's 70-meter (230-foot) bungee jump or rafting on the wave pool (both extra charge). Lifeguards are on duty at all the rides and facilities include sun loungers, showers, changing rooms and lockers, several restaurant and bar options – from fast food to à la carte – a henna tattoo parlor and a few souvenir stalls.More
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Top activities in Alanya

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All about Alanya

When to visit

Alanya’s Mediterranean climate is sunniest from June through September, but the summer season means big crowds and higher prices on flights and accommodation. Temperatures often soar over 85°F (30°C), so plan outdoor activities around sunrise and sunset, and cool off at the beach when it gets too hot. It’s often still warm enough to swim in spring and fall, and a shoulder-season trip might mean you’ll get a bargain, too.

Getting around

Alanya’s main beaches and tourist areas are largely flat and can be easily explored on foot. However, if you’re staying at one of the hillside hotels or heading up to the castle, you might prefer to take a taxi or ride the cable car. Local buses also link most of Alanya’s beaches and attractions: You’ll need to purchase a “smart card” (available at shops and supermarkets around the city) to use the buses, as cash isn’t accepted onboard.

Traveler tips

Most tourists stick to bars and restaurants along the seafront, but you’ll find local dining options and more reasonable prices away from the beach. Also, remember that haggling is commonplace in Turkey, so whether you’re shopping at the bazaar or snagging a last-minute tour, don’t feel too shy to haggle!

People Also Ask

Is Alanya, Turkey, worth visiting?

Yes. Alanya is one of the most atmospheric resorts along the Turkish Riviera, famous for its medieval castle and Red Tower, as well as its beautiful beaches. The city is also a popular basecamp for Mediterranean cruises, day trips to Side, and outdoor activities, such as hiking, rafting, and paragliding.

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What is Alanya, Turkey, known for?

Alanya is known for beautiful white-sand beaches, warm Mediterranean waters, and buzzing nightlife. Located at the south end of the Turkish Riviera, the resort town also is renowned for its medieval castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the town; the beachside Red Tower; and the natural wonder of Damlatas Cave.

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Is Alanya better than Antalya?

It depends! Alanya and Antalya are both popular coastal resort cities with ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and similar options for day trips and activities. Alanya is smaller and often less crowded than Antalya, and typically has cheaper accommodation options. However, most international flights land in Antalya, a 2-hour drive away.

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Why is Alanya so popular?

Alanya’s mix of pristine sandy beaches, sunny Mediterranean climate, and picturesque coastline make it a hit with sunseekers visiting the Turkish Riviera. The coastal city has diverse attractions for visitors: medieval ruins, boat cruises, a wide variety of outdoor activities and water sports, and dozens of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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What day is market day in Alanya?

Alanya’s main market, Juma Pazary, takes place on Fridays by the Atatürk statue at the city’s heart. Other markets and bazaars take place around the city every day of the week, with the most popular held on Tuesdays (by the fish market) and Sundays (along Yayla Yolu and Alaiye streets).

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Is Alanya cheaper than Antalya?

Yes. In general, there is a lower cost of living in Alanya compared to Antalya. While tourist prices may not always reflect those paid by locals, most visitors find that accommodation, tours, and meals are slightly cheaper in Alanya, making the city a better choice for travelers on a budget.

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Alanya information

Number of Attractions

8

Number of Tours

297

Number of Reviews

2,209

Currency

TRY
Frequently Asked Questions
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