Things To Do
in Alanya
Alanya is a sun-soaked resort town on the southern Turkish coast, famed for its medieval fortress and turquoise shores. The town blends a rich history with a lively beach scene, from the imposing Alanya Castle to the bustling harbor and Cleopatra Beach. Narrow lanes of Kaleiçi wind past tea gardens, mosques, and scenic viewpoints, revealing a town that thrives on sea, sun, and culture.
Visitors can stroll ancient streets, snorkel along dramatic cliffs, and savor fresh seafood with dramatic mountain backdrops.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café overlooking the harbor, savoring fresh bread, olives, and Turkish tea. After breakfast, stroll through the cobbled streets of Alanya's historic center, visiting the iconic Red Tower and the ancient shipyard. As you explore, take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea contrasting with the vibrant colors of historic architecture.
After a leisurely morning, head to the Alanya Castle, perched on a hilltop, where you can wander through its extensive ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city. For lunch, indulge in traditional Turkish dishes at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties like kebabs and mezes. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the nearby Cleopatra Beach, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters or sunbathe on the golden sands.
As the sun sets, enjoy a stroll along the picturesque harbor, watching the boats return after a day at sea. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can relish freshly caught seafood while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bazaar, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Kick off your day with an energizing breakfast at a beachside café, featuring local fruits and pastries. After breakfast, head to the beach for a morning of thrilling water sports, such as jet skiing or parasailing, offering you a unique perspective of Alanya’s coastline. Feel the adrenaline rush as you glide over the waves, with the stunning cliffs and beaches in the backdrop.
Take a break for lunch at a beachside restaurant, enjoying grilled fish or a refreshing salad while soaking up the sun. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, or if you’re feeling adventurous, join a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life in the clear waters. The friendly atmosphere and warm sun make for a perfect afternoon by the sea.
As dusk approaches, unwind with a beachside cocktail while watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. Opt for dinner at a beachfront grill, where you can enjoy a variety of barbecued dishes as the waves lap gently at your feet. After dinner, consider taking a moonlit walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕One-way taxi ride (3-5 km) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich history in Kaleiçi and nearby sites
- Delicious seafood and affordable dining
- Friendly locals and relaxed Mediterranean vibe
- Hot, crowded summers
- Some areas are hilly and cobbled (strollers can be tough)
- Beaches can get crowded in peak season
- Traffic around tourist areas can be heavy during summer
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is it?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Alanya
Visit one of these nice places.
Old fortress walls with sweeping views of the city, harbor, and sea.
Iconic cylindrical watchtower with harbor panoramas.
Long sandy strand backed by cliffs; great for sunrise shots and turquoise water.
Cave with stalactites and stalagmites near the beach; moody interior photography.
Colorful boats and fishermen against the blue Mediterranean.
Food in Alanya
Alanya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seasonal assortment of fish, calamari, prawns, and mussels grilled or fried, best enjoyed near the harbor.
Must-Try!
A white bean and onion salad often finished with olive oil, lemon, and herbs.
Freshly caught sea bass, filleted and grilled with olive oil, served with herbs.
A comforting Turkish lentil soup that’s a staple in many eateries.
Traditional sweet pastries perfect after a lunch of seafood and kebabs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market near the harbor offering fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, textiles, and quick street snacks like simit and gözleme.
Casual bites such as gözleme (savory pancake), roast corn, and midye dolma (stuffed mussels) along the old town lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes before entering prayer areas.
A polite 'Merhaba' (hello) goes a long way; handshakes are common among locals.
Ask before taking photos of people; photography in markets should be discreet.
Safety
Tipping in Alanya
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service isn’t included. Small tips to hotel staff and taxi drivers are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures around 20–25°C; good for sightseeing and hiking with blooming landscapes.
Very hot and sunny; peak crowds; best to visit early morning and late afternoon; water activities favored.
Warm days and cooler nights; fewer crowds; sea still warm for swimming.
Mild, with occasional rain; some attractions have reduced hours but coastal scenery remains appealing.
Alanya at Night
Hiking in Alanya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic canyon hike with a wooden walkway, small waterfalls, and forest scenery.
Rugged trails and lookout points in the Taurus range within a short drive offering cooler shade and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach Alanya by plane.
Smaller international and domestic flights; about 30-60 minutes by car to central Alanya.
Major international hub; about 135-160 km from Alanya with regular bus and private transfer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Turkish nationals with growing numbers of expatriates and long-term visitors.
Seasonal visitors from Russia, Europe, the Middle East, and domestic travelers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local leagues and pickup games happen around town.
Clear Mediterranean waters with opportunities to see marine life and caves.
Takeoffs from nearby hills offer sweeping coastal views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alanya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many meze and vegetable dishes are vegetarian; ask for grilled vegetables, salads, and beans. Avoid cross-contamination in seafood restaurants.
Rely on salads, lentil dishes, olive oil-based meze; communicate clearly with staff about dairy-free options.
Many grilled fish and meze are gluten-free; confirm bread and sauces contain no gluten and watch for cross-contact.