36 of the Best Things to Do in Alanya Turkey
There are many amazing things to do in Alanya Turkey to suit every type of traveller. So, to make your Alanya travel planning easier, read on to see our pick of the best things to do in Alanya!
If you’re looking for a breathtaking vacation destination, look no further than Alanya in Turkey. Alanya is a beautiful resort town located on the Turkish Riviera on the southern coast of Turkey. It is situated in the Mediterranean in the Eastern Coast of Antalya Bay of the Anatolian Peninsula and its history dates back to antiquity. The very first human settlement in Alanya began in the caves and dates back 20,000 years to the upper Palaeolithic Age.
The town is blessed with natural beauty, lovely beaches, and clear turquoise waters, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. But there’s more to this city than just lounging on the beach.
Visitors to Alanya can also enjoy exploring the ancient ruins of the city and the many historical sites such as the centuries-old Alanya Castle, and amazing views and gorgeous scenery. Other activities and attractions include shopping for souvenirs in the colourful old bazaar and relaxing in and enjoying the view from one of the many restaurants and cafes.
So, what are the best things to do and activities in Alanya? Read on to see our personal recommendations and favourites based on over 20 years of travel to Phuket and our recent extended stay.
Planning Your Trip? Use Our Favourite Resources Below!
Accommodation – We recommend Booking.com
Flights – We recommend Skyscanner
Tours / Experiences – We recommend Viator
Car Rental – We recommend DiscoverCars
Travel Insurance – We recommend SafetyWing
Did You Know?
- Alanya is the warmest resort city in Turkey and as such, it is hugely popular for tourists due to its unusually long beach season.
- Kleoptara Beach is the most popular beach in Alanya and legend says Mark Antony gave it to Cleopatra as a gift and even brought sand over for the banks of The Nile in Egypt.
- The main attraction is the Alanya Castle which proudly flies the Turkish flag.
“Making the mosque of our time in Turkey.”
– Anonymous –
Know Before You Go
If you’re from Australia, you DO need a visa to visit Turkey. It is easy to do online, and we recommend using iVisa. It only takes about 10 minutes and will cost around USD$40 for up to 90 days. Jonas didn’t need one as he travelled on his Swedish passport, but American friends of ours also needed a Visa to enter Turkey. You can check your country and rates here.
Another ‘must have’ is travel insurance. We are strong supporters of spending a little bit more on your trip and having some sort of travel insurance for any trip simply because you never know what may happen – whether it’s having your luggage go missing or eating the wrong thing and missing flights, or even needing hospitalisation. Our top choice is World Nomads and you can easily and quickly get a quote direct on their website.
How to Get to Alanya
To get to Alanya, the most popular and nearest airport to Alanya Turkey to fly into is Antalya Airport (AYT), which is located about 130 kilometres from the city. From the airport, you can either take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Alanya. If you’re taking a taxi, be sure to agree on a price with the driver before getting in the car. The drive from Antalya Airport to Alanya takes about an hour and a half.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to Alanya. The buses depart from the Domestic Flights Terminal and take about 2 hours to reach Alanya Bus Station. From there, you can either walk, grab a taxi or take a local bus to your final destination.
We have found Turkish Airlinesto always be a great option for us and Pegasus have also been quite good. We recommend you check Kiwi, our favourite place to compare and find cheap flights.
Check All flights to Turkey Here
Getting Around Alanya
Once in Alanya, there are plenty of transportation options to get around. The city centre can easily be explored on foot. The town is small enough that you can easily walk from one end to the other, and there are plenty of stops along the way to rest and take in the scenery.
For longer distances, visitors can take advantage of the city’s extensive bus network or hail a taxi (make sure they out the meter on). There are also several car rental companies located throughout Alanya if you prefer to have your own vehicle during your stay.
If you want to venture further out, there are also a number of tour companies such as GetYourGuide and Viator that offer day trips to nearby towns and villages. These tours are a great way to see more of the countryside and get an authentic Turkish experience.
Best Time to Visit Alanya
Alanya is a popular tourist destination and the best time to visit is between the months of April and October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for spending time outdoors and enjoying the numerous activities and sights in and around the city.
Accommodation in Alanya
There are many accommodation options in Alanya to suit all budgets. For those looking for a luxury experience, there are 5-star resorts with all the amenities and activities you could want. For those on a tight budget, there are hostels and guesthouses which offer basic but clean and comfortable rooms. There is something to suit everyone in Alanya when it comes to accommodation.
When choosing accommodation in Alanya, it is important to consider what kind of holiday you are looking for. If you want a relaxed and lazy holiday by the pool, then a resort would be ideal. However, if you are looking to explore everything that Alanya has to offer, then a guesthouse or hostel in the city centre would be a better option so you can easily walk to all the attractions.
N.B. Booking.com does not work once you are in Turkey so we use Agoda for all our hotel bookings when travelling in Turkey.
Is Alanya Safe?
Despite being a popular tourist destination, Alanya remains relatively safe. However, visitors are advised to take precautions against the common scams such as insisting taxi drivers turn their meters on and having some small Turkish Lira notes on you at all times in case someone ‘doesn’t have any change’. Also, do your research before booking tours on the street as some are wildly overpriced. Visitors should be aware of your surroundings at night and keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded areas.
Best Things to Do in Alanya Turkiye
No matter whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, exploring ancient ruins and Turkish cuisine, or active adventures, Alanya is a must visit destination for every traveller.
Alanya Archaeological Museum
The Alanya Archaeological Museum is one of the top attractions in Alanya. This museum is home to a collection of artefacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuk eras, amongst others, that have been found in Anatolian territories. Displays include mosaics, bronze items, ancient coins, terra cotta figurines, marble statues, as well as information about the history of the area including the Alanya Harbour and Citadel.
The museum also has a garden, which used to be an Ottoman graveyard, with Roman-style columns and a bronze statue of Heracles dating from the 2nd Century. Entrance is only 20 Turkish Lira. The Alanya Archaeological Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Turkey.
Alanya Beaches
There are many beautiful beaches in Alanya with exceptionally clear and turquoise waters including Kleopatra Beach, Alara Beach, Incekum Beach, Konakli Beach, and Portakal (Orange) Beach.
However, Kleopatra Beach is the most popular beach in Alanya. It is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by public transportation. There are also many sun loungers and parasols available for rent. Visitors can also find a variety of restaurants and cafes along the beachfront for a snack or refreshing drink.
Alanya Castle / Kalesi
Alanya Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Turkey making it one of the best places to visit in Alanya Turkey. It was built by Alladin Keykubat, Seljuk Turks Sultan, in the 13th Century to protect the city from invading forces. The walls of the fortress stretch 6500 metres and there was a total of 93 towers and 140 battlements within the walls.
This tower is the oldest surviving structure from the city’s Byzantine era. Today, the castle has several towers still remaining and a large courtyard.
The best (most scenic and easiest) way to reach Alanya Castle is by catching the Teleferic at the cable car station near Atatürk Park on Kleopatra Beach. The 900-metre-long cable car journey runs daily between 9:30am and 11:00pm, and the journey will cost 90 TL one way / 100 TL return for adults and 70 TL one way / 750 TL return for students.
From there visitors can explore the castle grounds, which offer great views of the city and surrounding coastline. The Alanya Castle Museum, an open-air museum at the summit of the peninsula with Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman artefacts, is open every day from 8:30am to 5pm and admission is 10 TL for adults and 5 TL for children.
Top Tip: Plan to do Alanya Castle early in the morning before it gets too hot. We also highly recommend walking down from the castle to the city centre as not only was the walk extremely scenic but it offers some amazing viewpoints. We especially loved finding beautiful old houses along the cobblestone streets, small shops selling their homemade goods and cafes and restaurants set in shady courtyards.
Alanya Harbour / Limani
Alanya Harbour is one of the busiest places in town and a great spot to watch the hustle and bustle. The harbour is also home to many private boats, charter boats and pirate ships which offer tours around the area. The harbour is also home to a large number of restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to take a break and refuel.
Some of the other famous landmarks in Alanya that can be found in this area include the lighthouse, the famous Red Tower and the Seljuk Shipyard. Above the shipyard is the historical Tophane neighbourhood which is located just below Alanya Castle.
Alanya Lighthouse
Alanya Lighthouse is located at the end of the pier in Alanya harbour. The lighthouse was built in 1226 by the Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubad I. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the city, the castle, the sea, and the nearby mountains.
Alanya Shipyard / Tersane
Alanya Shipyard, also known as Tersane, is one of the best things to do in Alanya. This historic shipyard, built during the Seljuk reign in the 13th Century, is located on the Mediterranean Sea and consists of 5 arched docks, each of which are interconnected by a series of passages. It is said to be the only surviving shipyard in Turkey from the Seljuk Period.
Inside you can learn about maritime history, navigation and the history of shipbuilding. Visitors can explore the shipyard, see some old ships up close, and learn about the history of this important maritime region.
Top Tip: Entrance fee is 5 TL or you can purchase a combined entry ticket for 30 TL which gives you entry to Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower.
Anemurium Ruins
The Anemurium Ruins are a popular day trip for those visiting Alanya and are located 2 hours outside of Alanya in the town of Anamur. The ruins of the ancient city date back to the 2nd Century AD and were once part of a large Roman city. Visitors can explore the ruins of the necropolis area, Roman baths, 4th Century basilica, city walls, and even an amphitheatre.
Ataturk’s House Museum in Alanya
Alanya’s Ataturk House Museum is a popular attraction in Alanya. The museum was founded by Kemal Ataturk, the first president of modern Turkey, and is housed in the home where he stayed on his one and only visit to Alanya in 1935. It houses a collection of Ataturk’s personal belongings including his clothes, books, and photographs. Period furniture and other household items show how a wealthy Alanya family would have lived back in the 1930s.The museum also has a library with over 10,000 books on Turkish history and culture, as well as the history of Alanya.
The museum is located in the city centre and is open every day from 9am to 5pm. Admission is free for all visitors.
Ayayorgi Church (Hagios Geogios) Aram Evliyasi
The remains of the Ayayorgi Church (Hagios Geogios) can be found on the south-eastern wall of the castle. The building is said to have been built in the 6th Century BC and was taken under protection with the castle. The mihrab is located to the east of the structure with a domed top.
The church was built during the Byzantine period on a 6-metre-wide square tower which belonged to the Hellenistic period. During the Seljuk period, the church was preserved and used as a mosque during the construction of the old city walls.
Beach Clubs in Alanya
If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun while on holidays in Alanya, there’s no better place to go than one of the city’s many beach clubs. Here, you can lounge on a comfortable chair or cabana, enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks, and take a dip in the pool when you need to cool off. Many beach clubs also offer other amenities like massage services, fitness classes and kids’ clubs, so there’s something for everyone.
Some of the most popular beach clubs in Alanya include the Havana Beach Club, Delfino Beach Club and
White in White Beach Club. No matter which beach club you choose, you’re sure to have a relaxing and enjoyable time.
City Tour Train
The City Tour Train is one of the fun things to do in Alanya Turkey and a fun way to get an overview of all the major sights in the city centre (perfect if you have kids). The total time for the tour is 45 minutes and covers a distance of 9 kilometres, at the cost of 30 Turkish Lira or 2 Euro.
It begins at the Alanya Pier (look for the red and white train as you walk towards the Red Tower). The places you will see include:
- The Red Tower
- Kleoptara Beach
- Teleferica
- Damlataş Cave
- Alanya Mosque
Damlataş Cave
There are many things to see and do in Alanya, Turkey, but one of the most unique experiences and places to visit in Alanya Turkey is to Damlataş Cave. Located right in the city centre, the cave is a 15,000-year-old natural formation and is an impressive sight with its stalactites and stalagmites. Once inside, the cave is 13 metres wide and 15 metres high and is easily accessed by stairs. The temperature inside the cave has a constant temperature of 22 to 23 degrees Celsius, making it a refreshing place to spend some time on a hot day.
This cave is home to a natural spring that has been known for its healing properties for centuries. People with asthma and skin conditions are said to benefit from the 95% humidity and high levels of carbon dioxide.
Entrance to Damlataş Cave is 15 TL or you can purchase a combined ticket for 25 TL (Damlataş Cave + Red Tower) or 30 TL (Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower).
Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or simply looking to cool off on a hot day, Damlataş Cave is worth a visit.
Top Tip: Purchase a combined entry ticket for 30 TL which gives you entry to Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower.
Dim Cave / Dim Magarasi
The Dim Cave in Kestel, located just 11 kilometres from the city centre, is one of the best natural landscapes to see while in Alanya. This massive cave is said to be over 150 million years old, and is a great example of the area’s natural history.
Dim Cave is the second-largest stalactite cave in Turkey, and its total length is 410 meters with a 360-meter section open to visitors. A walkway leads you past amazing formations of stalactites and stalagmites which are beautifully lit up with colourful lighting.
The temperature inside the cave stays at a constant 18 to 19 degrees while the humidity is about 90%. This means that Dim Cave (like Damlataş Cave) also has beneficial healing effects on people with asthma. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, which lasts about an hour.
Top Tip: There are many stairs in Dim Cave Alanya, therefore, it wouldn’t be suitable for people with mobility difficulties.
Dimcayi / Dim River for Lunch
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a lovely meal while surrounded by breathtaking scenery, look no further than Dimcayi Dim River, just 22 kilometres up in the Taurus Mountains to the east of Alanya. This spot is perfect for a leisurely lunch with friends or family in a Turkish-style pergola located above the water. You can order traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs and meze, or opt for something lighter like a salad or sandwich. Some of the restaurants even have their own water park and sun beds, while others have waterslides directly into the river.
We saw many people taking a swim in the river but they were braver than us as the water coming from the mountains was icy cold (only 15 degrees Celsius)!
No matter how you choose to spend your time, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the river and mountains while enjoying some delicious food.
Top Tip: Avoid Sundays as it can get very crowded with locals as this is the da they spend with family.
Suggested Tours: Taurus Mountains Jeep Safari with Lunch at Dimcay River | Taurus Mountains and Dim River Full-Day Tour
Ehmedek
There are plenty of things to do in Alanya, but one of the best activities is to simply stroll around Ehmedek, the historic centre of Alanya full of beautiful architecture and narrow streets. It’s the perfect place to explore on foot, and you can easily spend an entire day getting lost in its winding alleyways.
Kadiini Cave
Kadiini Cave, located 15 km northeast of Alanya, is a must-see natural wonder for any traveller to Alanya. The cave is located in the Kadiini Mountain range and is one of the largest caves in Turkey. It is believed to be over 12 million years old.
The cave was discovered in the early 20th Century by a local shepherd. He discovered it while looking for his lost sheep. As a result of excavations carried out in 1957, human remains dating back 5 thousand years to the Bronze Age and the Upper Palaeolithic era were discovered.
The cave is home to a number of unique stalactite and stalagmite formations which are three times larger than those on Damlataş Cave. The cave is lit up with colourful lights making it an even more magical experience. The area is a popular spot for rock climbers and picnic lunches.
Kleopatra Beach
Alanya is home to many beautiful beaches, but Kleopatra Beach is definitely the most popular. The sparkling turquoise water and soft sand make it a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. There are plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent, and there are also several beach bars serving refreshing drinks and snacks. If you get bored of lying in the sun, there are plenty of water sports on offer such as jet skiing, banana boat rides and parasailing.
Lunapark Alanya
Lunapark Alanya is one of the top attractions for kids in the area. The park is home to a number of rides and attractions such as a Ferris wheel, carousel and amusement park thrill rides, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops. Lunapark Alanya is centrally located and a must-visit for families as it is sure to please everyone.
Mecuddin Cistern
The Mecuddin Cistern is only one of 420 cisterns built around Alanya Castle, however, it is the most important at 22.5 metres deep and 13 metres wide. This underground structure was built in the 13th Century and served to collect rainwater and provide water storage tank for the city.
It’s a fascinating example of medieval engineering, and they still provide a large part of the water needs of the local people today.
Mint Building
The mint building are the structures located on Cilvarda Cape which is at the end of the peninsula and is composed of steep rocks 400 meters high. Although it is known as the Mint Building, no money was printed here. One of the small structures remaining with a dome roof is a church from the 11th Century. The other structures are thought to have been used as monasteries.
Nightlife in Alanya
The nightlife in Alanya is some of the best in Turkey. With a variety of bars and clubs to choose from, there is something for everyone. Visitors can start their night at one of the many beach bars where they can enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset. As the night goes on, they can head to one of the clubs which start to come alive after 9pm for some dancing and fun. Robin Hood Night Club, Havana Club Bar, and Bistro Bellman Club are some of the most popular nightclubs in Alanya. The party doesn’t stop until the sun comes up, so visitors should be prepared to stay out all night!
Old Bazaar in Alanya
Alanya’s Old Bazaar is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs and gifts in Turkey. The market is full of stalls selling everything from clothes, shoes, and bags to spices, hand-painted pottery and Turkish carpets.
Bargaining is expected, so be sure to haggle for the best price. Prices can usually be negotiated down to half of the starting price, so if the seller won’t agree to your price, move on to the next stall which is probably selling the same or similar product.
After you’re done shopping, take a break at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the market. The Old Bazaar is also a great place to people watch, as it’s always full of locals and tourists alike.
Top Tip: Copy goods are mainly sold at the Old Bazaar so pay extra attention to the quality of the products before you decide to start haggling over the price.
Paragliding in Alanya
Alanya is a top destination for paragliding in Turkey. With its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder that so many people come here to take to the skies.
There are several companies that offer paragliding tours in Alanya, so be sure to find one that fits your needs. Most tours include a tandem flight with an experienced instructor, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. And when you’re ready to take the plunge on your own, there are plenty of schools that offer lessons.
Whether you’re a thrill seeker or just looking for a unique way to see Alanya, paragliding is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Suggested Tours: Tandem Paragliding Over a Castle and the Sea | Tandem Paragliding Experience | Tandem Paragliding
Pirate Boat Trips in Alanya
Pirate Boat Trips in Alanya are one of the most popular things to do while in Alanya, Turkey. The trips are great for families or groups of friends as they offer a fun and unique way to see the sights and sounds of Alanya.
The trips typically leave at 10am and return at 3:30pm, and during that time, guests will be able to see some of the most popular sights in Alanya including the Red Tower, the Old Shipyard and Alanya Castle and its fortifications from different angles, and. In addition, you will see extraordinary caves such as Lover’s Cave, Pirates Cave, and Phosphorus Cave.
The pirate boats are large and spacious, and they offer a variety of activities and amenities for guests to enjoy. The boats also have a sun deck where guests can relax and soak up the sun, and some boats also include animations, and a foam party. We paid 15 Euro each which included unlimited soft-drinks and lunch, and 4 swimming breaks in the azure waters of the Mediterranean. You may even be lucky enough to spot dolphins or sea turtles.
Top Tip: Head down to the marina at about 9am and negotiate a deal for a trip that leaves at 10am. This was you will get a better price (we managed to get 50% off)! Also, we would recommend choosing your boat carefully. Most of the bigger boats are party boats and the music will be loud. Also, they are a lot slower and do not go as close to shore as some of the smaller boats. If we were to do it again, we definitely opt for one of the smaller boats!
Red Tower of Alanya / Kizilkule Fortress
The Red Tower of Alanya, or Kizilkule Fortress, is one of the best things to see in Alanya, Turkey. The fortress was built in the 13th Century by the Seljuk Turks and has been well preserved. It is a great example of Seljuk architecture.
The fortress is octagonal in shape and is 33 metres high and 12 metres wide. The first floor has an ethnological museum with exhibits about the history of the fortress and is a great way to learn about Turkish history and culture. However, the top level has the most appeal with great panoramic views of the sea and the city. To reach the top, there are 85 steep stairs, but the views from the top are well worth the effort!
Top Tip: The entrance cost is 10 TL, however, we suggest purchasing a combined entry ticket for 30 TL which gives you entry to Damlataş Cave + Shipyard + Red Tower.
Sapadere Canyon
Sapadere Canyon is a natural wonder with its high cliffs, lush vegetation, and clear turquoise river which cuts a deep canyon through the mountains. Visitors can enjoy the 20-minute hike through the canyon on a wooden boardwalk to reach a waterfall, or swim in the refreshing freezing cold) waters. Or alternatively, you can simply take in the stunning scenery.
The canyon is a 40-minute drive from the city centre, and there are plenty of tour operators offering trips to the canyon. Visitors can also reach the canyon on their own by taking a bus or taxi from Alanya. Entrance to the canyon is 9 TL and you can get food and snacks at the various stalls and restaurants.
Top Tip: The best was to see Sapadere Canyon is on a tour. The tours below include transportation, an English-speaking guide and lunch, and are stress-free way to spend 7-8 hours in the Taurus mountains.
Suggested Tours: Sapadere Canyon Full-Day Sightseeing Tour from Alanya |Sapadere Canyon Discovery Tour
Seyir Terasi
Seyir terasi is a viewing platform that offers stunning views of the cityscape below from the mountains behind the city. Here you will get perfect panoramic views of Alanya and its coastline. It is also a great place to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.
Shopping in Alanya
Although Alanya is known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lovely city centre, it is also great for shopping! The city centre is full of small shops and boutiques selling beautiful Turkish souvenirs, clothes, jewellery, and more. You can find anything you need in Alanya, and the prices are very reasonable.
For those that enjoy farmers markets, you can find them in almost every neighbourhood in Alanya. Apart from fresh fruits and vegetables, you can find many things from clothing to spices, and bags to towels in these stalls. Check out some of the famous bazaars:
- Oba Bazaar: Every Monday in the Oba district on Hacıkadıroğlu Street.
- Friday Bazaar: Every Friday in the Şekerhane District on Sinanoğlu Street. As the biggest market place in Alanya, it’s possible to find fruits and vegetables, as well as clothing, shoes, glassware, and souvenirs.
- Kestel Bazaar: Every Friday in the town of Kestel in the Cumhuriyet district.
- Hacet Bazaar: Every Sunday in the Hacet district near the Hacet Mosque on Saraclar Street. There are mainly fruits and vegetables but you can also find various other things like clothing and souvenirs.
So, if you are looking for a unique gift or something special for yourself, or simply want to experience a true local experience, definitely make sure to go shopping in Alanya!
Side, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfall Day Trip
Alanya is home to many historical sites and natural wonders. One of the best ways to explore all that Alanya has to offer is by taking a Side, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfall day trip.
The first stop on the tour is the ancient city of Side. The city was once an important trading centre and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the Temples of Apollo and Athena, and the Roman baths.
Next, the tour heads to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. The theatre was built in 155 AD and is still used for performances today. It is extremely well-preserved and clearly displays the architectural features of the Roman Age.
On the way back to Alanya, you will stop for a visit to Manavgat Waterfall. The falls are located about 80 kilometres from the city centre and they are a great place to take a break from the heat of the day. The falls are about 5 meters high and the pool at the base is a great place to cool off with a swim. There are also restaurants, cafes, and tea gardens where you can listen to the sound of water while you enjoy a drink or snack.
Suggested Tours: Side, Aspendos & Manavgat Waterfalls with Lunch
Syedra Ruins
The Syedra Ruins lie on a high hilltop overlooking the coast only 22 kilometres from Alanya. This ancient city that was once ruled by the Romans, however, the city was destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th Century.
The ruins are extensive and include a temple, churches, administrative buildings, an acropolis, and necropolis. Also, there are quite large rows of plastered cisterns fed by a natural water source, a baptismal cave, a beautiful bath with a mosaic floor, a gymnasium, a colonnaded street, shops, and a theatre.
The theatre is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in Turkey and the baths are also well-preserved and show how the ancient Romans used to live. The temples are in pieces, but you can still see the ancient carvings on the walls.
Syedra can be visited every day except for Mondays, and visiting hours are seasonal i.e. Summer 8:30am – 7:00pm, Winter 8:30am – 5:30pm. There is no entrance fee to visit the ancient city of Syedra.
Top Tip: It is best to wear good enclosed shoes when walking around the ruins as the ground is quite uneven in parts.
Suleymaniye Mosque
The Suleymaniye Mosque was built in the 13th Century by Aladdin Keykubat. It was then rebuilt by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent using the old materials due to its collapse due to a lightning strike.
Not only is it a monument of medieval architecture, but it still serves as a mosque today. The mosque has a large central dome and four smaller domes, and is decorated with beautiful Islamic calligraphy. Visitors can enter the mosque to admire its interior, but should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. There is a box with appropriate clothing at the front entrance to the mosque for tourists use.
Sandik Emini Kayhanlar House
Sandik Emini Kayhanlar House is a traditional Alanya house located near Alanya Castle and serves as a Traditional Handicrafts Centre. This beautiful house was built in 1889 and has been well-preserved. It is a great example of traditional Turkish architecture and features intricate hand-painted details.
Visitors can go inside free of charge and tour the house and learn about its history and culture. There is a
herbarium inside with an exhibition on the “Examination of the flora and fauna species of Alanya Castle”. Here you will find 322 plants and 38 species of butterflies, 20 of which are endemic, exhibited. There are also clothes specially produced from banana fibre and Alanya silk by the famous fashion designer Vural Gökçaylı, one of the veteran names of the haute couture movement in Turkey.
Taurus Mountains Quad / Jeep Safari
One of the best ways to explore the Taurus Mountains is on a Quad or Jeep Safari. This safari takes you on an adventurous journey through the Taurus Mountains where you will see some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Turkey.
Safari inclusions vary greatly so make sure you pick the right one for you! Most include pick-up from hotels, and a stop at a traditional Turkish village where you can learn about the culture and customs of the people who live there.
Top Tip: Bring sun glasses and a bandana as it can get very dusty.
Suggested Tours: Taurus Mountains Jeep Safari with Lunch at Dimcay River | Taurus Mountains and Dim River Full-Day Tour
Teleferik in Alanya
One of the best ways to see all that Alanya has to offer is by taking a ride on the Teleferik. The Teleferik is a cable car that runs from the cable car station near Atatürk Park on Kleopatra Beach, and drops you off at the Ehmedek section of Alanya Castle. The 900-metre-long cable car journey takes about 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the city, coastline, and mountains.
Once you exit the cable car, you will need to walk uphill another 1 kilometre to reach the entrance to the castle. Along the way you can explore Süleymaniye Mosque, a covered bazaar (bedesten) behind the mosque, and Sandik Emini Kayhanlar House, amongst other things.
The Teleferik in Alanya runs daily between 9:30am and 11:00pm. The journey will cost 90 TL one way / 100 TL return for adults and 70 TL one way / 750 TL return for students.
Turkish Hammam / Turkish Bath Experience
A Turkish Hammam is an experience not to be missed while in Alanya. A hammam is a traditional bathhouse where you can relax and detoxify your body. The most important part of the Hammam experience is the steam room, where you will sweat out all of your impurities. This is then followed by a full body scrub and bubble massage. For an additional charge, you can also choose to have a massage.
Prices vary enormously depending on your treatment and location. Shop around to ensure you not only get the best price, but also the best hammam experience!
Top Tip: If you intend of having the full Turkish hammam experience with a body scrub, do this on the first day of your holiday otherwise you may lose some of that tan you have worked so hard to get! Also, be sure to drink plenty of water before and after your visit to the Hammam.
Whitewater Rafting in Koprulu Canyon
One of the best ways to experience the Koprulu Canyon is by white-water rafting. The canyon is home to the longest stretch of Whitewater in Turkey, and it’s a popular spot for rafters from all over the world.
The rapids in the canyon range from Class II to Class V, so there’s something for everyone. If you’re new to rafting, you can take a trip on one of the easier sections of river. Or, if you’re an experienced rafter, you can tackle one of the more challenging sections.
No matter what your level of experience, white-water rafting in Koprulu Canyon is an unforgettable experience. You’ll get to see some amazing scenery, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way.
Suggested Tours: Koprulu Canyon Full-Day Rafting and Canyoning Tour|River Rafting & Jeep Safari at Koprulu Canyon
FAQs About Things to Do in Alanya
In Summary – Best Things to Do in Alanya, Turkiye
If you’re looking for a beautiful and exotic location for your next vacation, with plenty to do, look no further than Alanya, Turkey. This beach town has something for everyone – from swimming and sunbathing to exploring ancient ruins.
Are you planning a holiday to Alanya? Have you done any of the things to do in Alanya listed above, or have we missed any things to do in Alanya we should add to this list? Post your tips and questions below.
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TRIP PLANNERS FOR TÜRKIYE : RELATED BLOG POSTS
Want more info to help you plan your Türkiye holiday? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel in Türkiye below and continue planning your trip.
- TRAVEL GUIDE TO MARMARIS BEACH IN TURKEY
- MARKETS IN MARMARIS
- 45 EUROPE LANDMARKS TO ADD TO YOUR BUCKET LIST
- BEST MEDITTERANEAN CRUISE PORTS
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Essential Travel Planning Resources for Turkey
Below are our favourite companies to use for planning our travels to Turkey. They consistently turn up the best deals and overall, are better than their competitors. These are always our starting point when we need to book a flight, accommodation, tour, transportation etc.
Book Your Flight:
Our two favourite search engines for finding cheap flights are Skyscanner and Kiwi. They compare all of the available prices across every airline to help you compare flights in one place.
Book Accommodation:
Booking.com and Agoda consistently return the best rates for guesthouses and hotels in Turkey. To find a budget hostel, our favourite site is Hostelworld and Airbnb are great if you are looking to stay for a longer period of time with apartment amenities such as a kitchen.
Book a Tour:
We prefer to travel independently, however, sometimes the best and cheapest way to see the highlights of a city / country is to book a tour or package. For Turkey, we always use GetYourGuide and Viator for our tour bookings. If we are only going to be in a city for a day or two and want to make the most of our time there, we book through Big Bus Tours.
Book Transportation:
Our first port of call for transportation planning is Rome2Rio. This website allows us to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. For road trips in Turkey, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for finding the best deal on car rentals. Flixbus is our preferred company for bus travel and Eurail for train travel.
Book Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. We never travel without it as we have had to use it several times in the past. We have been using 1Cover for the past 4 years, however, we also recommend World Nomads as many of our fulltime travel friends swear by them.
Always Carry With You:
When travelling in Turkey, we always carry a daypack for excursions, and the Lonely Planet Guide!
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Check out our Travel Resources page for the companies we use and recommend to plan and book our travels. Through lots of trial and error over the years, these are the best!
