This picturesque coastal town, once ruled by Romans, Byzantines, and later the Seljuks, holds a rich legacy as a strategic port city. The Seljuk-era shipyards and its enduring Ottoman significance highlight deep historical roots of Alanya.
Rafting in Green Canyon
Climate & Cuisine
This town boasts a Mediterranean climate, with hot, sunny summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for year-round travel. Its warm sea temperatures allow for swimming and water activities from April through October.
The local cuisine is a flavorful showcase of Mediterranean ingredients, especially seafood, citrus fruits, and homemade jams. Some of Alanya’s traditional dishes include:
- Ülüp (a local herb dish)
- Yarpuzlu Akdarı Soup
- İlibada (sorrel) Wraps
- Dövme Aşı (cracked wheat stew)
- Göleviz (Colocasia root)
Food enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in local restaurants and village markets.
Top Tourist Attractions
Alanya Beaches are impeccable
Whether you’re a history buff or a beach lover, Alanya offers a wide variety of attractions and activities:
- Alanya Castle
Originally built during the Hellenistic period, this fortress features 6.5 kilometers of well-preserved walls, offering panoramic views of the town and sea. - The Shipyard (Tersane)
Constructed by Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat, it now operates as a fascinating maritime museum. - Archaeological Museum
Opened in 1967, this museum showcases relics and cultural artifacts from the region’s multi-layered past. - Red Tower (Kızıl Kule)
A magnificent example of Seljuk military architecture, built in 1226, and now home to an ethnographic museum. - Laertes & Syedra Ancient Cities
Discover the ruins of past civilizations with temples, agoras, and ancient city walls. - Alanya Atatürk House Museum
Preserves the memory of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s visit to Alanya. - Dim Cave & Dim River
A popular natural attraction featuring a 360-meter walking path inside the cave and a cool 18°C interior temperature, perfect for summer visits. - Damlataş Cave & Beach
Believed to be over 20,000 years old, this cave is rich in stalactites and stalagmites. The adjacent beach is ideal for swimming. - Pirate’s Cave & Boat Tours
Accessible by sea, this cave and its nearby spots are highlights of daily boat tours. - Cleopatra Beach
A 2-kilometer-long sandy beach, named after the legendary Egyptian queen. Known for its clear water and gentle waves, it’s one of Turkey’s most famous beaches.
Festivals in Alanya
Why not spend some time in Alanya sail tours?
The town is not just a summer beach town—it’s also a cultural hub that celebrates arts, music, and local traditions. Key annual events include:
- International Alanya Tourism and Art Festival (May)
Celebrates the town’s cultural heritage with concerts, exhibitions, and local performances. - Alanya International Jazz Days (September)
An open-air music event attracting world-class jazz artists and thousands of visitors.
How to Get There
Alanya sunsets will mesmerize you
The easiest way to reach is via Antalya Airport (AYT), located 125 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take:
- Private transfer vehicles
- Taxis
- Rental cars
- Regular public buses from Antalya city center to Alanya Bus Terminal
For travelers flying from abroad, Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP)—just 40 km east of Alanya—is an excellent alternative with seasonal international flights.
Why Visit Alanya?
Whether you’re interested in sunbathing, historical exploration, or enjoying the nightlife, Alanya delivers it all. It’s a destination that merges ancient civilizations, natural wonders, and modern comforts—making it one of the top places to visit on the Turkish Riviera.
