Alanya - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Alanya

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Alanya, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Alanya and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Alanya, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Alanya for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Alanya

Alanya is a coastal city in the Antalya Province of Turkey. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and Mediterranean climate. Alanya is approximately 135 kilometers from Antalya city and has a population of around 100,000 people. The city attracts tourists from around the world for its historic Alanya Castle, Cleopatra Beach, Red Tower Museum, and lively nightlife. The climate in Alanya is mostly dry and hot in the summer, and mild and rainy in the winter, making it a great destination for those seeking sun, sea, and history.

What to visit in Alanya

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Alanya, Turkey: 1. Alanya Castle: This historic castle is a beautiful landmark that overlooks the entire city. It was built in the 13th century and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains.
2. Kleopatra Beach: This long sandy beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It is named after Cleopatra, who is believed to have swum in its waters during her reign.
3. Damlatas Cave: This cave was discovered accidentally in 1948 and is believed to have healing properties due to its high humidity and mineral content. It is open to visitors and can be explored through guided tours.
4. Red Tower: Designed as a defense tower in the 13th century, Red Tower now serves as one of the most important museums of the city. It houses some of the most valuable archaeological exhibits.
5. Dim Cave: This natural cave system is located on the outskirts of the city and is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can take guided tours to explore this captivating underground world.
6. Alanya Archaeological Museum: This museum is located within the Castle and offers a detailed look into the city's rich history. Its exhibits range from the Hellenistic to the Ottoman era.
7. Alanya Aquapark: This water park offers a fun day out for all ages, with a variety of water slides, pools, and attractions. Located in the heart of the city, it is easily accessible.
8. Alanya Bazaar: This bustling market is located in the city center and is a great place to buy souvenirs and traditional Turkish clothing and accessories. Haggling is expected so be ready for it. These are just a few of the amazing tourist attractions that Alanya has to offer. They are sure to make your trip a memorable one.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Alanya.

When to go on holiday to Alanya

The best time to visit Alanya in Turkey is during the months of May, June, September, and October when the temperatures are milder, the crowds are fewer and the rates are relatively lower. The summer months of July and August can get very hot and crowded, but the season is also great for those who want to enjoy the beach and water sports activities. The winter months of December to February are cooler and less crowded, but some of the tourist attractions may be closed during this time. Therefore, it would be best to plan your visit according to your interests and preferences.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Alanya

There are several ways to get to Alanya, Turkey: 1. By air: Alanya has its own airport, Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP), which is located around 45 km away from the town center. Many airlines operate flights to here, including some low-cost airlines.
2. By bus: There are frequent bus services from Istanbul and other major cities in Turkey to Alanya. The journey can take up to 10 hours, depending on your starting location.
3. By car: If you are traveling from other parts of Turkey, you can hire a car and drive to Alanya. The journey can take several hours, depending on your starting location.
4. By train: There is no direct train service to Alanya, but you can take a train from Istanbul to Antalya, and then take a bus or taxi to Alanya.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Alanya.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Alanya, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Alanya

Alanya, Turkey is known for its delicious and mouth-watering cuisine, which is influenced by Mediterranean and Turkish flavors and spices. Here are some typical foods of Alanya with a short description for each of them: 1. Adana Kebap: It is a famous grilled meat dish made with spicy minced beef or lamb served with rice, salad, and flatbread.
2. Pide: A Turkish style pizza made from a crispy crust, topped with cheese, minced meat, vegetables, or pomegranate molasses. 3. Dolma: A popular dish made with zucchini, eggplant, bell pepper, or grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, herbs, and spices. 4. Börek: A pastry made with thin layers of phyllo dough filled with cheese, spinach, potatoes, meat, or vegetables. 5. Baklava: A dessert made from thin crispy layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and drizzled with sugar syrup or honey. 6. Lahmacun: A thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. It's also known as Turkish pizza. 7. Manti: A traditional Turkish dumpling filled with minced meat, served with yogurt sauce, tomato sauce, and herbs. 8. Meze: Small dishes of appetizers, including hummus, baba ganoush, stuffed vine leaves, and various dips.
9. Doner Kebab: A popular street food made from layers of seasoned meat slowly roasted on a vertical spit, sliced thinly, and served with pide bread, salad, and sauces. I hope that helps! Enjoy your culinary journey in Alanya.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Alanya an expensive destination for tourists?

Alanya can be considered a mid-range to slightly expensive destination in Turkey. However, the cost of traveling to Alanya can vary depending on the time of year, the type of accommodations and the activities you plan to do. During peak summer season, prices for accommodations tend to be higher. However, there are also a variety of low-cost options available in Alanya such as budget hotels or hostels, as well as local markets and eateries where you can find affordable food. When planning your budget, make sure to consider your accommodations, food, transportation, and activities to get a better idea of your overall costs.

Where to find accomodation in Alanya

The best areas to find accommodation in Alanya are: 1. Alanya City Center: This area is great for those who want to be close to all the city's main attractions, including the castle, harbor, and bazaar.
2. Cleopatra Beach: This is one of the city's most popular beaches, so it's a great place to stay if you want to be close to the sand and sea.
3. Oba: This neighborhood is a bit quieter than the city center, but still offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. It's also close to the beach.
4. Mahmutlar: This area is a bit further from the city center, but has a more relaxed vibe and is great for families or those who want to escape the crowds.
5. Kargicak: This area is even further from the city center, but offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and is a great choice if you want to stay in a more secluded location.
You can check hotel prices at Alanya here:
Booking.com

Is Alanya a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Alanya is generally a safe place for tourists. The city is known for its tourism infrastructure and receives millions of visitors each year. The local authorities also put a high priority on ensuring the safety of tourists. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to use common sense and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. It is advised to follow local customs and laws, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables, and be aware of your surroundings especially in crowded areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Alanya.

What type of travelers will enjoy Alanya the most?

Alanya, Turkey has something to offer for everyone, making it suitable for couples, young people looking for fun, and families alike. Couples will enjoy the romantic coastal views of the Mediterranean Sea, sunset boat rides, and visiting the Alanya Castle, local markets, and museums. Young people looking for fun will love the exciting nightlife, beach parties, and water sports activities like parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and scuba diving. Families can enjoy the beautiful beaches, water parks like the Water Planet Aquapark, and visiting the ancient Alanya fortress and the Dim Cave.
Overall, Alanya has plenty to offer to everyone, and it's an excellent destination choice for a family holiday or romantic getaway.

How to get around Alanya

In Alanya, tourists can use different types of transportation to move around the city. The most common ones are: 1. Public Buses: Alanya has a well-connected bus network that runs throughout the city. Tourists can use these buses to travel to various neighborhoods and tourist spots.
2. Taxis: Taxis are a convenient way to move around the city, especially if you have luggage to carry or are traveling with a group. It is advisable to use official taxis at the taxi stands.
3. Dolmus: Dolmus is a shared minibus or van that operates along fixed routes. These are cost-effective and efficient transportation options for tourists.
4. Bicycles and Scooters: Bicycles and scooters are popular rental options in Alanya and can be a perfect way to explore the city at your own pace. 5. Walk: Alanya is a small city with a well-developed tourist infrastructure, which allows tourists to explore on foot conveniently.

What to see around Alanya

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Alanya: 1. Side: A beautiful ancient Roman city with well-preserved ruins, beaches, and a charming old town.
2. Aspendos: Home to the magnificent Aspendos Theater, one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world.
3. Antalya: A vibrant and historic city with a beautiful old town, beaches, museums, and a modern marina.
4. Dim Cave: A stunning underground cave system with colorful stalactites and stalagmites.
5. Manavgat Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall surrounded by a lush forest, perfect for a relaxing picnic.
6. Koprulu Canyon National Park: A beautiful canyon with clear river waters ideal for rafting, trekking, and outdoor activities.
7. Green Canyon: A serene lake surrounded by lush green mountains, perfect for a peaceful boat tour.
8. Sapadere Canyon: A beautiful natural wonder with waterfalls, lush vegetation, and a rock bridge, ideal for hiking and picnicking. 9. Alara Castle: A medieval castle with stunning views of the countryside and the sea, perfect for history buffs and photographers.
I hope this helps you plan an unforgettable day trip from Alanya!
For every travel information about Turkey you can click here.

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