Alanya, an active resort town located on the southern part of the Turkish coastline, is an ideal vacations to anyone who dreams of warm sunny days by the seaside and cultural exploration. The Alanya has some of the best tourist attraction features such as beach, history and culture, and market among others. If it’s the sandy beach, exotic historical and archaeological sites or tasting delicious Turkish food that you are after, Alanya is ready with an assortment. This extensive Alanya travel guide will present you the 22 top recommended sights and activities that will help you make your trip to amazing.
1. The Castle (Alanya Kalesi)
Alanya Castle is a mighty fortress built on the rocky hill which looms majestically over the city. This structure is one of the oldest and was built in the 13th century and is a clear example of the historic values of the city and its meaning as a strong point. That crack up those towering walls of the castle is almost 6 meters. 5 kilometers, around an historical area with Seljukite cistern and several Byzantine churches. What might not be very eye-catching about the structures is always overwhelming by the stories that they depict. Rich in history through the centuries, ranging from pirate attacks all the way to Ottoman domination, Dinoro’s castle offer a lot to people interested in the historical aspect of the area.
In particular, the castle can be reached by such means of transportation as a car, a bus, a train, and even a bicycle. Some people choose to walk up the inclined road but the majority can take a bus no 4, a taxi or the present day cable car. The latter is longer and is more relaxed where one can view various parts of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. At the top tourists can stay and visit remains of the old castle and have a magnificent view over Alanya. The reverse down the historic city is equally as compelling as the windy lanes replete with traditional houses, craft villages, and restaurants manifest the cultural side of the city.
2. Turkish Bath (Hamam)
It is very relevant to say that getting a touch of the hamam is one of the things that travelers must do when in Turkey. These baths are an essential part of the culture in Turkey and have been for hundreds of years providing a way to relax and clean at the same time. The standard procedure of the hamam includes the session in the steam bath, during which the skin is opened, and moistened. This is followed by the use of a kese, which is a rough cloth that scrubs off the skin excesses to reveal a smoother skin feel. The process is usually often completed with a relaxing massaging treatment so that it is a total body healing experience.
For those people, it is recommended to visit a hamam early in the vacation; this is so because after the scrubbing process, which the hamam provides the skin will be free and ready for a good sun tan. Alanya does have literally dozens of turkish hamams, a lot of which are situated in old houses and therefore steeped in Ottoman-era atmosphere. People needing the spa services of a hamam seeking the relaxation or a thorough wash and facial scrapping will get an insight into one cultural practice of the Turkish community.
3.This is the Red Tower also known as Kizil Kule.
Alanya’s harbor contains the impressive Red Tower which represents the Seljuk architectural style. Dating back to the 13th century, this tower had a defensive function as well as a function of a water well. The structure of the building was named thus fondly, the red bricks that was used in its construction was imported from Sinop; another city located on the Turkish coast. Measuring 33 meters, the tower is more than a historical site; besides the history of the Mari people, you get a fantastic view of the city and the sea.
Currently, there is the Alanya Ethnographic Museum located in the Red Tower, where people can see the examples of the compatriots’ work and samples of Turkey’s crafts. Besides weapons, the museum has textile and household items through which one is able to have a glimpse of the past life of the inhabitants of the region. To get to the top of the tower there are 85 steps that one needs to climb, however the view that one gets to see once at the top is worth the climb. From this place, one can get a panoramic view of Alanya town, the Alanya harbor and in the far background the Taurus mountain ranges which makes it ideal for photography.
4. Cleopatra Beach
One of the beautiful beaches of Alanya and one of the most crowded is a Cleopatra Beach which has golden sand and very clean water. Rich in history, this beach was supposedly granted to the queen of Egypt Cleopatra by Mark Antony, a known Roman civil war general, who accompanied her when she would swim here. The uniqueness of the beach is attributed to the fine sand and also the steep gradient of the water where it deepens rapidly; thus a good place for swimming for well endowed swimmers but not for the little children.
Cleopatra Beach which is about 1.9 kilometres long contains cafes, restaurants and small parks, where visitors can rest. One is guaranteed an opportunity to spend the whole day by the water because sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire. The beach is situated near the downtown area, so getting there is quite convenient, while the infrastructure is fine, and the sand is clean. If you are interested in spending time on the shore taking a sunbath, swimming, or just having a meal watching the sea, Cleopatra Beach is for you as it will give you a real Mediterranean flavor.
5. Local Markets
Alanya local markets are active markets where one is blessed with an array of activities to the sight, sound, and smell. These markets are arranged in different sections of the city and the products sold vary from one market to the other and are sold daily. From meat and dairy products, a wide variety of developed and processed foods, organic products, and vegetables and fruits, to spices, textiles, shoes, clothes, bags, souvenirs, home decorations, furniture, arts and handcrafts, everything that a traveler could be interested in can be bought in the markets.
Other aspects, which can be named as the main advantages of shopping at these markets, include the ability to haggle, which is an intrinsic part of Turkish business. Negotiation with vendors can be fun and most of the time, you can negotiate for huge price cuts. Markets are also very good for shopping and one can find here Turkish tiles, glassware, jewelry, spices and other refreshment items. Due to their bright colours and offering such a vast range of things, markets are an absolute must for anyone wishing to become a real inhabitant of the locality.
6. Alanya’s Gardens
For the lovers of relaxed atmosphere, it is possible to visit Gardens in which one can find a lot of green and beautiful flowers in Alanya. The place is represents one of the great public parks that are not very popular amongst the travelers but adored amongst the people living in this city. It has a lot of plant species; flowers and ornamental trees from other countries which makes it a perfect place for a nature walk.
There are also several ponds in the park equipped with fountains and fish; the sound creates a relaxed atmosphere. Bench seats are all over the gardens and are specifically designed for lying down or for watching people pass by. Besides that, there are also the recreational amenities like an outdoor gym equipment, playground areas, and sports ground, which allows the visitants to rest and engage in different kinds of physical activities. The park also has beautiful views of the castle and Cleopatra beach, this give the visitor a good opportunity to view the natural beauty of the place.
7. Dim Cay
Dim Cay is situated in the Taurus Mountains and the beautiful station appears to be gorge with cool river and trees. This area is the perfect picnic place preferred by locals and tourist due to the hot climate that is experienced on the coast. Most facilities are lined on the riverside, and there are so many eating places that have their tables fixed on platforms over the riverside. Some establishments even provide water slides and water pools for the benefit of visitors there and then as well as children.
The temperature of the water in the Dim River varies anywhere from 11 to 15 Celsius degrees and that is why it is considered to be the water perfect for swimming. Apparently, Sundays are full of people because families from surrounding neighborhoods come to have picnics, but during the weekdays there is little outdoor activity. Whenever you want to take it easy for a sunbath, swim, or even to take a tropical-meal, Dim Cay offers it all, natural and recreational.
8. Atatürk’s House
The residence located in Alanya known as Atatürk’s house is a valuable opportunity to have a look at the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Modern Turkish Republic. Thus, people visit Alanya only once, of course, but the house, where he had a stay, is now a museum to tell about him and his impact on the country. The museum was well constructed in a typical Turkish architectural design with appropriate interior decorations and enhanced with proper furniture in form of artefacts depicting the period.
Exhibition inside displays photographs of Atatürk, personal items and documents that in a way helps the visitors familiarize with Atatürk’s biography and work. The museum also offers general information about the beginning of the century in Turkey and general perception of the historical and cultural transformations during Atatürk’s period. It will be mutually beneficial for history lovers to pay a visit to Atatürk’s House which gives informative details about the Turkey’s modern history.
9. Boat Trips
Boat tours, or rather any travel around the Alanya coast gives one a different view of tourism and the physical location of the city. There are numerous boat trips offered, some of which are specialized by interest and most of which vary in terms of length. These tours range from a few-hour sailing, through the entire day where tourists can anchor at some deserted beaches to sunbathe, swim or even scuba dive.
Among the plusses of such boat tours, there can be included the chance to see sea animals, like dolphins or sea turtles. Some of the tours even provide entertainment program on board, lunch, and beverages making the tour lively and economical. The boat trips are commonly originating from Alanya’s harbour and giving a vision of skyline of the city, the Red Tower and the castle. If you fancy a journey to the secluded bays or just want to go for a boat ride, it is nice to go for a boat trip in Alanya.
10. The Cable Car
The Alanya cable car is one of the relatively new tourist attractions launched in 2017 to give tourists slightly different experience. The cable car connects the castle to Cleopatra Beach and it easy to use while enjoying the view across the reefs at the same time. It being located in Alanya is a small ride at total 900 meters and has height difference couple hundred meters for the bird eye view of Alanya, harbor and surrounding scenics.
Actually, Cable car is not only means of transportation but it is an event of its own merit. The cabins come with features like glass walls which give clear views of the surrounding, this is ideal for any photographer. As for cable car it is recommended to travel during the evening when the color of the sky will be perfect combination of orange and pink. The ride holds about five minutes and is relatively gentle, an idea that is friendly for every age group of people.
11. Turkish Cuisine
The tradition to have lunch at the restaurant with oriental atmosphere was embraced by most of the tourists as a perfect start to discover the taste of Turkey. As it is true for everything that has to do with tourism, the options when it comes to food is tremendous, ranging from souvenirs sold from street vendors to the fanciest restaurants. Turkish cuisine is quite diverse, and something that people can definitely look forward to when they visit Turkey; the primary and traditional meal elements are herbs, spices, and vegetables.
Turkish cuisine represents a whole another level of food culture but one sure-fire way to taste the country’s food is through the meze – appetizers. They often consist of appetites such as hummus, dolmathes, and various types of salads, so the group can taste different dishes. Thus, main courses vary from kebabs and grilled meat to sea food and vegetarian meals. Treats, particularly desserts are also on offer which a customer can try including baklava and Turkish delight. For a real ethnic experience, try and locate establishments that locals also patronize as such eateries are most probably going to provide a better quality food at a more reasonable price.
12. Damlatas Cave (Damlatas Magarasi)
Damlatas Cave is an amazing sight situated at the feet of the rocky Alanya’s tauch. Actually it was found only at the age of mid-twenties of the twentieth century when construction works were being carried out and since then the cave becomes a recognizable tourist object. Outside and inside the cave there are interesting formations of stalactites and stalagmites several thousand years in the making. In the cave, there prevail such climatic conditions as humidity and optimal temperature, which are equal to 22 all the year round. 3 degrees Celsius, and maligned for being a beautiful place for patients of respiratory illnesses.
Even though it cannot be considered a large cave, Damlatas provides a glimpse of geological past of the area. Such conditions make the cave an ideal place to take cure; especially for individuals who are suffering from asthma. One can move from one chamber of the cave to the other by a set of walkways and thus people with disability can easily access the cave. However, there are a few stairs and that rules out the area as a good spot for persons with disability when it comes to mobility.
13. Dim Cave (Dim Magarasi)
Opened in 1981, Dim Cave is among the largest and most beautiful caves with rosettes in all of Turkey, and it lies 12 km from Alanya. The cave is as long as 360 meters and many different stalactites and stalagmites making it as if the cave is another alien world. It is estimated to be one million years old and the dim cave provides a wonderful discovery of the natural world.
The temperature in the cave remains at a constant 18-19 C with relative humidity put at 90%. It is believed that the given environment is in one way or the other suitable for respiratory system health just like in Damlatas Cave. It has walkways and pong system for lighting and the traverse through the cave is rather easy in contrast to other cave systems. Towards the end of the cave there is an underground lake, which also contributes to the magical tone of the cave. As for the access to Dim Cave, the route goes up and that is not easy but it is so exciting and gives rather unusual impressions.
14. Water Sports
Besides, water sports because the warm Mediterranean sea water offers a conducive environment for the exercises. If someone likes a lot of adrenaline and is looking for something new, there are lots of beach activities for everyone. Some of the favourite adventurous water activities are jet skiing, parasailing, wind surfing and banana ride etc. The other activities of interest are also offered for those who want more underwater experience such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
Gear rental shops and tour operators are plenty in the city’s shoreline, so equipment rental and activity bookings are easy. As for the particular type of activity, parasailing is a very thrilling activity which combined with breathtaking views of beaches from the bird’s eye view. Alanya is perfect to practice water sports since the waters are relatively still and the climate is sunny.
15. The Bazaar
The place for buying in Alanya is the bazaar which is a large making centre with a great number of products. Together with clothes, shoes and jewelry, one can buy spices, sweets, souvenirs, tea and coffee, and, of course, have an unforgettable shopping. Many of the items sold there are fake products, ranging from the clothing they wear to fancy handbags, so one should beware.
Bargaining is the prerogative of the bazaar thus people are expected to haggle in the course of shopping. Sellers initially set very steep prices to bargain with consumers since they expect the latter to haggle for the price. This could be exciting and an entertaining experience for the shopper and at the same time the shopper could possibly get the right deal. The bazaar is not only a store where people can buy goods, but also a sight and everyday life of locals. Its atmosphere is rather cheerful with numerous colorful products on the shelves which will make it interesting for everyone interested in Alanya.
16. Alanya Archaeological Museum
The Alanya Archaeological Museum is an interesting museum which displays a rather big collection of archaeological findings and provides the guests with a good opportunity for learning about the history of the region. The museum was founded in 1967 and the displayed items of the museum include antiquities as well as ethnographic materials. The museum is divided into two main sections: The existing literature on the subject matter consists of a combination of archival records, one of which is archaeological in nature and the other, ethnographic in character.
The architectural section consists of artifacts from different epochs starting from the Hellenistic, through Romans and Byzantines. These have helped scholars in their process of understanding the ways of living of the people and their religious beliefs among other aspects of their existence as well as their creativity and mastery in the kinds of works they produced in the elapsed timeframe. The exposition of the ethnographic section makes a first impression on exhibiting fragments of the traditional culture and folkways of local people due to the exhibit of the traditional costumes, household utensils, and samples of local handicrafts.
As it would be expected, the museum also has an outside area, in which larger pieces of work and archaeological relics are depicted. Alanya Archaeological Museum is an informative place that extends guest’s knowledge about the historical and cultural background of the region.
17. The Harbor
The harbour area of Alanya is always filled with plenty of action and serves perfectly as the exemplification of the stay waterfront of the city. This section encompasses the docking services that give the area historical importance and the new facilities that attract the public. The historical piece of architecture Red Tower and the ancient Shipyard are within the proximity of the harbor showing the marine history of Alanya.
There are also many restaurants and cafes present along the harbor and numerous of them serve sea food. Having a meal in the interface with the boats and a view of the castle in the background is such a beautiful feeling. The zone is very active during the night especially after evening when entertainers take to the streets joined by hawkers. One must spend some time walking alongside the waterfront and there is also a lighthouse situated nearby where one can also capture some beautiful scenic shots.
18. Atatürk Statue
The statue of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the person who is credited for the contemporary Turkey, is located in Alanya. The statue is situated on the main street in the city center; therefore, it serves as a significant attraction and business interpersonal communication spot in the city. The statue symbolizes Atatürk as hero and unrivaled benefit for the country and, at the same time, reflects the Turkish pride and consolidation.
Apart from the statue, the area is very vibrant and people pass by most of the time; therefore, a visit to this place will enable the viewers to interact with the people around. The statue’s location in the heart of the city ensures that it gets workers and tourist traffic throughout the day and is frequently incorporated into tour packages. In particular, all the history fans should include the Atatürk Statue to their list of attractions to visit in Turkey.
19. Traditional Shave
Theres no better way to assimilate to the culture, than to start with a traditional shave at one of Alanya barbershops. It can be said that Turkish barbers are some of the most professional and meticulous in their service, providing the clients with more than just a shave. The recommendations for the traditional shave are the use of a safety razor, hence an old-fashioned straight razor producing a neat and silky finish.
Besides the shave, other related services include facial massages, hair cut services, ear and nose hair trimming services among others. Depending on the package, it is usually rounded off by the head, neck and shoulders massage, thus making it more of a grooming session. Hailing a local barber is not just a chance to get a hair cut or shave rather it is a possibility to be served Turkish way.
20. Shipyard (Alanya Tersane)
The Alanya shipyard otherwise referred to as Alanya Tersane, can be said to be a history that dates back to the 13th century. The construction of the shipyard began with the Seljuk period for constructing and repairing warships named galleys. Today it lies well-preserved as naval architecture of the medieval period to the imagination of the tourists.
Currently, the people visiting the shipyard have a chance to see five large arches which previously accommodated the shipbuilding. There is also a small museum with maritime items and general historical information of the Neptune shipyard and its contribution to naval history of the area. The exterior facade of the shipyard is a good setting for taking picture because it overlooks the bay and the sea shore.
21. Seyir Terasi
Seyir Terasi is one of the beautiful spots to visit viewpoint situated on the hills of Alanya. Located at 650m above sea level the park sights include city views, castle and view of the Mediterranean Sea. The viewpoint is tourists and locals’ favorite during sunsets as the city glows in the golden light.
Besides the beautiful sceneries, Seyir Terasi has sections for green areas, picnic, and playing grounds thus, it’s a family-oriented area. The park is easily reachable by car and by public transport, the municipal buses number 8 are stop at this park. For the drivers, the pathway up the mountain is a zigzag one and steep therefore caution should be observed while driving up the mountain.
22. Excursions from Alanya
The location of Alanya could be characterized as very convenient in terms of further travel around the area. Depending on one’s preference, there are many day trip opportunities that one can undertake that have different features and characteristics. Sapadere Canyon is a beautiful valley that attracts many tourists, there are paths for trekking, there are waterfalls and beautiful pools to take a shower in. The Manavgat Waterfall is also worth visiting with a marvelous cascade and a very quiet surrounding.
Tourism lovers and human history and archeology enthusiasts will not regret visiting nearby cities of Antalya, Side, and Mahmutlar with their attractions and landmarks keeping the history of the region. For instance, some of the famous cities such as Side has beautifully preserved ruined theatre and temple. If one wants to interact with the culture more, one could visit a mountainous Turkish village that really gives a description of the society and their culture.
For travelers wanting to travel a little further afield there is the natural beauty of Pamukkale and the other-worldly landscapes of Cappadocia. These destination can be toured by organized day trips or by car rental making the travelling easy and convenient. When it comes to the tours available from alanya, there are many to satisfy any potential tourist’s interests, including nature, history and culture.
Conclusion
It was necessary to tell the readers that Alanya is a city characterized by history culture and natural scenic views. Beautiful sandy beaches, historical sites, bazaars and mouth-watering food; indeed, there is no reason why anyone who wants to visit a beautiful town on the sea-side must not go to this city situated in Turkey. No matter if you are a beginner in traveling or a frequent tourist, the attractions described in the guide give the insight of what Alanya can offer to the tourists.
The 22 attractions and experience and facilities mentioned in this article reveal the versatility and richness of Alanya’s tourist appeal. Discovering pre-historic sites such as castles and caves, to diets, taste the local food and drinks, water activities are among exercises one can engage on. The culture of the city and its people can be described as very warm and colorful and therefore the city welcomes all.
We have highlighted how best you can plan your time in Alanya to visit any of these attractions. Regardless of whether you want to sun tan on the beach, learn more about the area, or get your adrenaline rush, Alanya will surely not disappoint you. This is just a guide and base on which travelers can find the many treasures of the city and make a vacation memorable.