15 Best Things to Do in Alanya

Alanya, a captivating coastal city in Türkiye, transcends its image as merely a beach holiday destination, offering a rich tapestry of activities that blend history, natural wonders, and thrilling adventures. Nestled on the Turkish Riviera, it’s a popular spot for European tourists, inviting visitors to explore ancient castles, mysterious caves, scenic cable car rides, and, of course, its beautiful beaches.

For those planning a trip, it’s good to know that while the official currency is the Turkish Lira, Euros are widely accepted in most places. Alanya has been officially recognized as Türkiye by the United Nations since the summer of 2022, moving away from its former English spelling, though some still use the old term. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or an action-packed getaway, Alanya promises a memorable experience.

Explore the Historic Alanya Castle

Dominating the city from a high peninsula, Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi) is a must-see landmark, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Built in 1221 by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, it incorporates older Roman and Byzantine fortifications. This extensive fortification features 140 bastions and 83 towers, stretching around the hill and providing a glimpse into Turkey’s rich history. Inside its vast walls, visitors can discover an open-air museum, an old market (Bazaar), a Byzantine church, and a mosque. The castle can be visited daily year-round. For a comprehensive experience, consider an Alanya city tour that includes admission and a guided tour of the castle.

Ascend the Iconic Red Tower (Kızıl Kule)

The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule), an iconic symbol of Alanya, stands proudly at the harbor, dating back to 1226. Also built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, this 13th-century octagonal structure served as a crucial defense for the city and its shipyard. Inside, an ethnographic museum on the first floor showcases clothing and artifacts from the Ottoman period and details Alanya’s shipbuilding history. Climbing to the top floor offers stunning views of the harbor district, the city, and the surrounding walls. The Red Tower is open daily year-round, and it’s recommended to visit early in the morning during summer to avoid crowds and heat. A combined ticket for the Red Tower and the shipyard is available.

Delve into the Damlatas Cave

Located conveniently close to the popular Kleopatra Beach and at the foot of Alanya Castle, the Damlatas Cave (Damlataş Mağarası) is one of Alanya’s top natural attractions. Discovered in 1948 during harbor construction, this cave is famous for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, believed to have formed between 15,000 and 10,000 BC. The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 22-23 degrees Celsius and 98% humidity year-round, making it a therapeutic spot, especially for those with asthma, with many doctors recommending visits. A visit typically lasts about 10-15 minutes, but benches are available for those who wish to relax longer. Entrance costs 30 TRY or 1.5 Euro.

Relax on Kleopatra Beach

Kleopatra Beach (Kleopatra Plajı), situated on the west side of the castle hill, is renowned as one of Turkey’s most beautiful and famous beaches. Legend has it that Egyptian Queen Cleopatra herself swam here, leading to its name. This Blue Flag certified beach boasts clear turquoise waters, fine golden sands, and stunning natural scenery, making it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports like jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving. Along the promenade, you’ll find numerous beach clubs, cafés, and restaurants where you can rent sunbeds, enjoy food, and relax. The beach is easily accessible from the city center by car, dolmus, or taxi.

Experience Panoramic Views from the Alanya Cable Car (Teleferik)

For the most efficient and scenic way to reach Alanya Castle, the Alanya Cable Car (Teleferik) is highly recommended. This popular attraction, opened in 2017, connects the area near Damlatas Cave to the castle hill, ascending 300 meters over 900 meters. The ride offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Kleopatra Beach, Alanya Castle, the Mediterranean coastline, and the Taurus Mountains. It’s particularly romantic to take the cable car at sunset when the entire coastline glows. A return ticket costs 28 Turkish Lira, and an ID (a photocopy of your passport is acceptable) is required for purchase.

Discover History at the Alanya Archaeological Museum

The Alanya Archaeological Museum (Alanya Arkeoloji Müzesi), also known simply as the Alanya Museum, is a vital cultural stop for those interested in the region’s rich heritage. Located centrally, near Damlatas Cave and the castle hill, it features archaeological findings and artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. The museum also boasts beautiful gardens where visitors can view sarcophagi. The first floor of the Red Tower houses the museum’s ethnographic exhibition, displaying clothing and artifacts from the Ottoman era. It is open daily in summer and daily except Mondays from October to April.

Venture into the Impressive Dim Cave

Just 11-12 kilometers outside Alanya, in the upper part of Dim Valley, lies the stunning Dim Cave (Dim Mağarası), offering a more extensive and impressive experience than Damlatas Cave. This natural karst or limestone cave, estimated to be a million years old, boasts an underground river and can be explored up to 360 meters of its 410-meter length. Inside, impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and columns, some reaching 15 meters high, are beautifully illuminated. The cave maintains a constant inner temperature of 18 degrees Celsius, making it a pleasant escape on a hot day. Tours, often combined with jeep safaris to the Taurus Mountains, include visits to the Dim Cave.

Indulge in a Traditional Hammam (Turkish Bath)

A Hammam, or Turkish bath, is an essential cultural experience when visiting Türkiye. Once a part of daily life, this ancient tradition, one of the oldest bath traditions globally, offers a unique way to cleanse and rejuvenate the body. Hammam rituals typically involve hot steam, a scrub, and a foam massage in a beautiful, warm, steam-filled room with a large stone in the middle. While the initial cleansing might not feel relaxing, adding a one-hour massage afterward can leave you feeling deeply rejuvenated. Several affordable options for authentic Hammam experiences, often including hotel pick-up and drop-off, are available in Alanya.

Explore the Historic Alanya Shipyard Ruins (Tersane)

The Alanya Shipyard (Tarihi Alanya Selçuklu Tersanesi), located not far from the Red Tower, is a significant historical site dating back to the 13th century. It holds the distinction of being the first Seljuk shipyard in the Mediterranean. Visitors can explore the well-preserved dockyard, which was used for trade and defense, and view detailed displays depicting Seljuk maritime navigation and the shipyard’s construction methods. The shipyard’s vaulted stone arches create a beautiful backdrop for photography. It’s open daily, often coinciding with the Red Tower’s opening hours, making it easy to visit both attractions together.

Embark on a Pirate Ship Tour

Experience the thrill of the sea with a pirate ship tour, a highly popular activity in Alanya, harking back to the city’s past as a famous pirate harbor. These large wooden vessels, resembling something from a movie, offer day cruises and sunset cruises. Tours often include hotel transfers and even all-inclusive packages, starting from as little as $20. Many tours feature entertainment, music, animation, foam parties, and multiple swimming breaks in the beautiful blue waters. Boats typically pass by significant landmarks like Alanya Castle, the Red Tower, and the old shipyard and stop at sea caves such as Lovers’ Cave, Pirates’ Cave, and Phosphorus Cave.

Go on a Jeep Safari in the Taurus Mountains

For an adventurous escape into nature, a Jeep Safari to the majestic Taurus Mountains is a top choice in Alanya. These tours provide an exciting way to explore Alanya’s countryside, offering scenic drives through mountainous terrain, often including playful water fights. Beyond the adventure, visitors get to experience rural villages and witness the marvelous natural beauty of the region. Various jeep safari options are available, some combining visits to sites like Dim Cave or even rafting. This activity is suitable for both children and adults, providing an entertaining and thrilling day out.

Marvel at the Sapadere Canyon

The Sapadere Canyon, located about 40 kilometers from Alanya in the middle of the Taurus Mountains, is a breathtaking natural wonder. This 750-meter-long canyon will enchant you with its untouched nature, rugged cliffs, and clear pool fed by a waterfall. It’s a popular spot for picnics, with icy-cold, oxygen-rich water that’s both a delight and a challenge to swim in. Visitors can hike through wooden trails for about 30 minutes to reach the canyon. As public transport doesn’t reach here, it’s best explored via guided day trips, such as a jeep safari, or with a rental car. Tours often include transfers, guide assistance, and lunch.

Experience Local Culture at the Friday Market (Cuma Pazari)

Visiting the Friday Market (Cuma Pazari) is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Alanya’s local culture. This main market, located in the city center (Şekerhane District on Sinanoğlu Street), is a vibrant hub where local farmers and artisans sell their produce and products. Reopened in 2023 after a refurbishment, it now features a large new space. Here, you can find everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices to clothing, shoes, and souvenirs. Markets are an important part of life in Alanya, where the growing of fruit is a significant venture, especially in the Antalya region.

Step Back in Time at the Syedra Ruins

For a deep dive into the region’s ancient history, visit the Syedra Ruins, located just 23-26 kilometers from Alanya in Seki village. These Roman remains date back as far as the 7th century BC, with the settlement believed to have been inhabited until the 13th century AD, representing 2000 years of history. Entrance to Syedra is free, and visitors can explore remnants of a typical ancient Roman settlement, including large plastered cisterns, a baptismal cave, a magnificent bath with mosaic remains, a gymnasium, a colonnaded street, shops, a temple, a theater, and an acropolis. You can reach the ruins by bus from Alanya bus station towards Gazipasa or by joining a tour.

Capture Memories at the Alanya Lighthouse

Standing tall by the harbor of Alanya, the Alanya Lighthouse (Alanya Deniz Feneri) is a striking white structure topped with the Turkish flag, built in the 18th century. While you cannot enter it, and there isn’t much to “do” there, it is still a worthwhile sight to behold. The lighthouse offers a beautiful backdrop for sunset photos and provides a wonderful vantage point for observing the coast and passing pirate ships. Reached by a causeway near the Red Tower and Seljuk shipyard, it’s a pleasant destination for a walk from the harbor. This French-built lighthouse, operational since 1880, is unique in the region, projecting light 20 nautical miles out to sea.

FAQs

1. Is Antalya or Alanya better?

Both Antalya and Alanya are excellent destinations in Türkiye, but they have different focuses.

• Distance from the airport: Antalya is closer to the airport, making it more convenient to reach, while Alanya is a bit further but still easily accessible.
• Archaeological sites: Antalya offers a wealth of nearby archaeological sites like Perge, Aspendos, Phaselis, Termessos, and Side, showcasing the region’s rich history. Alanya has fewer archaeological sites in proximity.
• Coastline: While both cities boast beautiful coastlines, Alanya is noted for a particularly scenic stretch towards Anamurion, featuring stunning cliffs, bays, and beaches.
• Sightseeing: Antalya provides diverse historical and cultural sights such as Hadrian’s Gate and the Archaeological Museum. Alanya is famous for its impressive castle and Red Tower, both of which offer stunning city views, and also features the Sapadere Canyon, a notable natural attraction.
• Nightlife: Antalya is recognized for its active nightlife, which includes several pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Alanya also has lively nightlife, though the entertainment options might be slightly more limited due to its smaller size.
• Beaches: Both cities have beautiful beaches. Antalya’s beach tends to be longer and wider than Alanya’s. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prioritize proximity to archaeological sites and vibrant nightlife (Antalya) or a stunning coastline and picturesque castle (Alanya).

2. What to do in Alanya when it rains?

When the weather is rainy in Alanya, there are still plenty of enjoyable indoor activities and attractions.

• Visit museums: Explore one of Alanya’s many museums, such as the Alanya Archaeological Museum, to admire ancient artifacts and interesting exhibitions.
• Go shopping: Browse the numerous shopping centers in Alanya, including Alanyum Shopping Centre and Megamall Shopping Centre, or shops along Atatürk Boulevard.
• Indulge in wellness: Treat yourself to a relaxing time at one of Alanya’s wellness facilities, spas, or hammams to escape the rain.
• Enjoy local cuisine: Savor delicious Turkish specialties like gözleme and cig köfte at cozy restaurants and cafés.
• Visit indoor attractions: Key attractions like the Red Tower, Damlataş Cave, and Dim Cave can still be visited in bad weather.

3. Where is the most beautiful place in Alanya?

According to locals, the sunset from Castle Hill is considered the most beautiful place in Alanya.

4. Can I pay with pounds/euros in Alanya?

The official currency in Türkiye is the Turkish Lira, but pounds and euros are widely accepted in many tourist areas. It is advisable to carry some Lira for smaller shops or local transport like the dolmuş (minibus). Most hotels, larger shops, and supermarkets accept payments in pounds and euros, but the exchange rate might not always be advantageous. Alanya has many exchange offices and banks where you can easily exchange money into Lira, and it’s generally better to exchange cash for smaller amounts rather than using ATMs, which often charge extra foreign fees.

5. When is the market in Alanya?

Alanya hosts several markets throughout the week, offering a variety of goods and products.

• Alanya Bazaar: This is one of the biggest and most famous markets, open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM. Here you can find clothes, jewelry, leather goods, souvenirs, spices, and fresh food. Haggling is common.
• Weekly Market: Held every Tuesday near the bazaar, this market is popular for buying fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, nuts, spices, and other local products. It opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM.
• Fish Market: The Alanya fish market is open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM for fresh fish and seafood. Other specific markets mentioned in the sources include the Oba Bazaar (every Monday), the Friday Bazaar in Şekerhane District (every Friday, the biggest market), the Kestel Bazaar (every Friday), and the Hacet Bazaar (every Sunday).