Alanya, Turkey is a popular holiday destination known for its beaches, historical heritage and scenic views. Located on the southern coast of Turkey, in the Mediterranean region, it combines natural beauty with rich history and modern amenities. Let’s look at some of the main attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Alanya.
I was in Alanya in November 2024, as I participated in an Erasmus European youth exchange program from 6 different countries. In the few hours we had free time, I did not miss the opportunity to move around the city exploring and discovering the beauties of this seaside city!
How to get to Alanya
The least tiring and most economical way to get to Alanya is by air via Antalya. In my case, for example, I flew Athens – Antalya with a stopover of a few hours in Istanbul. Getting from Antalya to Alanya is not that simple.The distance between these two cities by road is about 2 hours, so a taxi is a very expensive option, especially if you are traveling alone. On the other hand you can use the means of transport, but you will need to use a tram and 2 buses to arrive after many hours in Alanya. So the most comfortable way to go from Antalya airport to your hotel in Alanya is to book a seat, many days in advance, with the shuttle bus bizimtransfer.com, which you share with others and costs about 14 euros, one way.
Below you will read in more detail all the beautiful things you can see and do in Alanya, Turkey.
The coastline and beaches of Alanya
Alanya is famous for its extensive coastline with crystal clear blue waters and beaches that stretch for kilometers. The most famous beach is Cleopatra Beach, which, according to legend, was given as a gift by Mark Antony to Cleopatra. Its clear and warm waters make it ideal for swimming, while its fine gravel makes it excellent for relaxing. In addition, the area offers many organized beaches with sunbeds and beach bars, but also quieter beaches for those of you who prefer tranquility.
The Castle of Alanya
One of the most characteristic monuments of the city is the Castle of Alanya, which dominates the top of a hill with a panoramic view of the Mediterranean. The castle was built in the 13th century by the Seljuks and is surrounded by impressive walls that are approximately 6.5 kilometers long, especially noticeable at night when they are illuminated. You can tour the interior of the castle, explore the old towers, walls and ruins, and enjoy the impressive view of the city and the sea from above.
To go up to the castle you will walk about an hour from the red tower (Kizil Kule). Alternatively, you can take the bus (number 1) to Cleopatra beach and from there take the cable car that will take you to the top. The view from the cable car will enchant you! What you need to know is that it costs 9.80 euros for 2 trips, that is to go up and down, and it works from early morning until 9 at night. At the top you will also find one of the most beautiful restaurants in Alanya, the “Gardenia Restaurant”, with a beautiful atmosphere and a view of the Mediterranean. Remember to get there at sunset! The location, the colors and the whole atmosphere will enchant you.
Kizil Kule or Red Tower
Kızıl Kule, or Red Tower, is probably the most emblematic monument of Alanya and one of its most important historical attractions. Built in the 13th century by Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Kaykubat I to protect the port, the tower is an outstanding example of Seljuk architecture and is renowned for its geometric precision and military value.
Kizil Kule got its name from the characteristic red color of its bricks, which are made from local clay and give it a unique appearance that stands out in the landscape. With a height of about 33 meters and an octagonal structure, the tower was for centuries the center of the city’s defense and was part of a wider fortification system that included the castle and the walls.
Visit to Kizil Kule
As a visitor you can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy an impressive view of the port, the sea and the city of Alanya. The view from the top is particularly enchanting, as it allows you to see the deep blue sea hugging the coastline and the castle standing imposingly in the background.
Inside the tower, there is also a small museum that offers information about the history and purpose of the tower, as well as the maritime heritage of the area. Exhibits include old photographs, information on the tower’s construction techniques and period artifacts. The museum is a way to better understand the historical significance of the monument and the era in which it was built.
Exploring the Caves of the Area
Damlataş Cave is located in the city of Alanya, Turkey, on the Mediterranean coast. It was discovered in 1948 during the construction of the port and since then it has been one of the most popular destinations in the area. The cave stands out for its stalactites and stalagmites, said to be over 15,000 years old. The configuration of the cave creates a particularly humid and warm atmosphere, with a temperature of around 22-23°C and humidity that reaches 90-98% throughout the year. This microclimate is said to offer therapeutic benefits for people with respiratory problems such as asthma.
The name “Damlataş” means “dripping stone” in Turkish, a reference to the drops that keep falling from the stalactites due to the cave’s humidity. The cave is family-friendly and easily accessible by city bus, as it is close to Alanya’s Cleopatra Beach. So it offers you the opportunity to combine a visit there with a walk on the beach or a tour of the historic castle of the city.
Apart from Damlataş, Alanya also has other caves, such as Dim Cave. It is located about 12 kilometers from the city and is known for its great halls and impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Dim Cave has been created for thousands of years and offers a unique exploration experience that fascinates visitors. It is also accessible and suitable for families and children.
Sapantere Canyon
About an hour outside of Alanya, Sapantere Gorge is an ideal destination for nature lovers. It is a green gorge with crystal clear water and small waterfalls, where you can go hiking, enjoy the coolness of the river and discover the rich vegetation of the area. It is a beautiful way to escape the heat and the traffic of the city and at the same time enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Marine activities
Alanya, with its long coastline and clear waters, offers many options for water activities, which are ideal for those looking for some action and adventure. In the area you will find plenty of organized boat trips that start from the port. These cruises usually include stops at hidden beaches and various caves, such as the famous Pirate Cave and Erasmia Cave. Boat trips are ideal for families, couples and groups, and offer the opportunity to see the natural beauties of Alanya up close, while enjoying relaxing moments at sea.
Apart from boat trips, Alanya is also popular for a wide variety of water sports. Among the activities you can try are:
- Diving: Alanya has interesting diving spots for beginners as well as for more advanced divers, where you can see colorful fish and underwater formations.
- Water skiing and jet skiing: The organized beaches of Alanya offer equipment for water skiing and jet skiing, ideal for those who want to feel the adrenaline of speed on the water.
- Parasailing over the sea: Enjoy the experience of “flying” over the sea, with a view of the city, the castle and the beaches, a unique experience that combines a sense of adventure and an impressive view.
Archaeological Museum of Alanya
If you are a history buff and interested in the history and culture of the region, the Alanya Archaeological Museum is a great place to visit. It houses objects from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods, which have been discovered in the area. From statues and ceramics to gold coins and jewelry, the exhibits tell the rich history of Alanya and the surrounding area. It is a small but well-kept museum, where you will learn a lot about the ancient civilizations that passed through the Mediterranean.
Hammam (Turkish Baths)
A visit to Alanya would not be complete without enjoying the Turkish bath or hammam experience. This traditional relaxation practice includes warm steam, exfoliation and massage in a specially designed space. In Alanya you will find many hammams, where you can live this unique experience, which relaxes the body and rejuvenates the spirit. My choice was the “Sakura Spa & Wellness“. The experience was so relaxing and unique that I will truly remember.
How to get around the city of Alanya
Most of the hotels are located on the beach road, where you will find people playing sports all day long. So wherever you choose to stay, it’s very easy to find and explore the city center using the bus. Along the coastal road you will come across many stops. Bus number 1 is the one that takes you to the center and it goes every 20 minutes or so. The cost of the ticket is 30 TL if you pay cash to the driver or 28 TL if you pay by card (you use your Revolut contactless card). Of course, there is also the option of the taxi as well as the e-scooter via app, which I didn’t get to use though.
Important info: In Alanya you can pay everywhere with the Revolut card. If you still want to have some cash, you will find exchange offices everywhere. Alternatively, you can withdraw Turkish lira from an ATM with your Revolut card. Personally, I made a withdrawal at the Ziraat Bankasi ATM, without any commission.
Alanya offers a complete travel experience that combines natural beauty, rich history, traditional culture and modern conveniences. This combination makes Alanya a destination worth discovering, whether you are looking for relaxation, exploration, adventure or a cultural experience.
In addition, the close distance from Antalya gives you the opportunity to extend your trip and visit one of the largest cities in the region, known for its rich cultural scene, shopping centers and vibrant nightlife. By combining Alanya with Antalya, you can enjoy it at its most.
See more about Alanya, Turkey in the highlight stories #ALANYA at Ιnstagram
