Introduction
Alanya is one of Turkey's most popular and vibrant beach resorts – a stunning combination of dramatic clifftop castle, long sandy beaches, crystal-clear Mediterranean water and a lively holiday atmosphere. Located on the eastern end of the Turkish Riviera, Alanya attracts millions of visitors every year, particularly from Scandinavia, Germany and Russia.
Whether you're looking for a classic sun and sea holiday, water sports, history or nightlife, Alanya delivers it all with style.
Where is Alanya?
Alanya is located in Antalya province, approximately 130 km east of Antalya Airport (AYT). The town is built around a dramatic rocky peninsula topped by a magnificent Seljuk castle, with long beaches stretching in both directions.
How to Get to Alanya
From Antalya Airport (AYT):
The most comfortable way to reach Alanya is by private airport transfer. The journey takes approximately 1.5–2 hours along the scenic coastal highway.
👉 Book your private transfer from Antalya Airport to Alanya – €79
Public buses (HAVAS and local services) are available but take longer and require luggage handling at the bus station.
Top Things to Do in Alanya
1. Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi)
The crown jewel of Alanya – a magnificent 13th-century Seljuk fortress perched 250 metres above the sea on a rocky peninsula. The castle walls stretch for 6.5 km and enclose an entire village. The views over the Mediterranean from the top are absolutely breathtaking. A must-visit.
2. Cleopatra Beach
One of Turkey's most famous beaches, named after the legendary Egyptian queen who is said to have swum here. A long stretch of golden sand with calm, warm turquoise water, excellent facilities and a lively atmosphere. The best beach in Alanya.
3. Damlataş Cave
A spectacular stalactite and stalagmite cave at the western end of Cleopatra Beach, discovered in 1948. The cave's humid, CO2-rich air is said to be beneficial for asthma sufferers. An impressive natural wonder.
4. Alanya Museum
A well-presented museum covering the history of Alanya from prehistoric times through the Byzantine and Seljuk periods. Located near the harbour, it's a great introduction to the town's rich history.
5. Red Tower (Kızıl Kule)
An iconic octagonal Seljuk tower built in 1226 to defend the harbour, now housing an ethnographic museum. The tower is Alanya's most recognisable landmark and offers great views over the harbour and castle.
6. Boat Trips & Caves
Alanya's coastline is dotted with spectacular sea caves. Boat trips from the harbour visit Pirate's Cave, Lovers' Cave, Phosphorescent Cave and Cleopatra's Cave – a fun and scenic half-day excursion.
7. Dim Cave & Dim River
Located 12 km east of Alanya, Dim Cave is one of Turkey's largest and most impressive stalactite caves. Nearby, the Dim River offers a beautiful natural setting for swimming, picnicking and boat trips through a scenic canyon.
8. Alanya Bazaar & Shopping
The old bazaar area near the harbour is great for leather goods, jewellery, spices and souvenirs. The modern shopping streets around Ataturk Caddesi offer everything from local shops to international brands.
Best Beaches in Alanya
- Cleopatra Beach – the most famous, golden sand, calm water, lively atmosphere
- Keykubat Beach – long beach on the eastern side, quieter, good facilities
- Damlataş Beach – small beach near the cave, central location
- Mahmutlar Beach – 15 km east, quieter, popular with long-stay visitors
- Incekum Beach – 30 km west, fine sand, pine trees, more secluded
Where to Stay in Alanya
Cleopatra Beach Area – best location, walking distance to the beach, harbour and castle. Wide range of hotels from budget to 4-star.
Keykubat Beach Area – quieter eastern side, good value hotels, long beach.
Mahmutlar – 15 km east, popular with long-stay visitors, many apartment hotels, good value.
Oba & Tosmur – quieter residential areas, good for families, short drive to the beach.
Where to Eat in Alanya
- Ottoman House Restaurant – beautiful setting in the castle area, excellent Turkish cuisine and views
- Harbour restaurants – fresh seafood with views over the Red Tower and castle
- Mahperi Restaurant – rooftop terrace, panoramic views, good Turkish and international menu
- Local pide restaurants – try Alanya's excellent pide (Turkish flatbread pizza) at any local fırın
- Dim Çayı restaurants – riverside dining in a beautiful natural setting, 12 km from town
Best Time to Visit Alanya
The best time to visit Alanya is May, June, September and October – warm enough for swimming without the intense July-August heat and crowds.
- April–May: 20–26°C – Ideal ✅
- June: 28–32°C – Great ✅
- July–August: 33–38°C – Very hot, peak season 🟡
- September–October: 26–32°C – Ideal ✅
- November–March: 12–18°C – Mild, off-season 🟡
Getting Around Alanya
- Walking – the town centre, harbour and Cleopatra Beach are easily walkable
- Dolmuş (minibus) – cheap and frequent connections along the coast and to surrounding areas
- Taxi – widely available, agree on price in advance for longer journeys
- Scooter/car rental – ideal for exploring Dim Cave, Mahmutlar and the surrounding area
- Private transfer – most convenient for airport arrivals and departures
Travel Tips for Alanya
- Visit the castle early morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- The cable car (teleferik) to the castle is a fun alternative to walking up
- Boat trips sell out quickly in July and August – book the day before
- Cleopatra Beach gets very crowded in peak season – arrive early for a good spot
- Alanya has excellent value all-inclusive hotels – great for families on a budget
Getting Back to the Airport
When it's time to leave, a private transfer ensures a comfortable and stress-free journey back to Antalya Airport.
👉 Book your return transfer from Alanya to Antalya Airport – €79
Travel with confidence – TTT Transfer provides private, fixed-price airport transfers across Turkey. Professional drivers, meet & greet service and flight tracking included.
