Prehistoric Seljuk ruins, mystical caves and golden-sand beaches are just a few of Alanya’s biggest draws. This ancient town is strategically positioned on a small peninsula on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, just below the Taurus Mountains. Once a stronghold for the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires, Alanya is now a favourite seaside holiday resort with plenty of things to do. Boasting more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the town attracts millions of visitors each year from all over the world. With a unique mix of relaxation, heritage sites and adventure, Alanya is one of the jewels of the Turkish Riviera.
The six best things to do in Alanya:
1. Soak up the Turkish sun at Cleopatra beach
Boasting long stretches of golden sand and glassy-green water, it’s no wonder Cleopatra beach is considered one of Turkey’s best beaches. Legend has it that it was even Queen Cleopatra’s favourite. Locals claim that the former Egyptian queen was keen on swimming in its bay and used to stop there during her voyages in the Mediterranean. Fast forward to the present day and the beach still retains its charm, as well as offering a catalogue of watersports. Whether you’re all for topping up your tan or you’re more about getting active, Cleopatra beach has something for you.
2. Explore historic Alanya Castle and the Red Tower
Perched on top of a 250-metre-high cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll find Alanya’s 13th-century medieval castle. Its fortified walls rise majestically from the sea and stretch an impressive 6km, making it one of the town’s must-sees. Situated just beneath the castle and next to the old port is the symbol of the town – the Red Tower. This five-story defence tower was built in 1226 to protect the harbour and castle from sea attacks. If history’s your thing, there’s an open-air museum which tells the story of its origins and uses. Nowadays, the tower is a popular photo stop thanks to the spectacular panoramic views offered from the top. It may be five storeys high, but it’s more than worth the climb.
3. Discover the healing Damalatas Caves
It’s hard to believe that one of Alanya’s biggest attractions was found by accident. Back in 1948, miners were searching for construction materials when they came across these caves. Situated on the west coast of the peninsula, the Damalatas Caves have been shaped by erosion over thousands of years and feature spectacular stalactites hanging down from the ceiling. As well as their captivating beauty, the caves are also famous for their healing capabilities. With steady temperatures and humidity levels all year-round, many believe the caves are capable of curing asthma.
4. Pamper yourself at a traditional Turkish Bath
Visiting the Turkish baths, known locally as hammams, is a national pastime. Having existed in Turkey since ancient times, they’re a special ritual considered a way of cleansing not only the body but also the soul. Various hammam packages are available but the most traditional one includes warming up in the sauna before enjoying a deep exfoliation and foam massage while lying on a heated marble block. This is followed by a truly indulgent classic oil massage – an altogether unmissable experience.
5. Visit Antalya Aquarium
If you fancy a break from the sun but don’t want to venture too far from the water, a day trip to one of the world’s biggest aquarium complexes is a must. As well as 40 different thematic aquariums, a shark hall, a submarine cave and an ice museum, Antalya Aquarium also boasts the largest aquarium tunnel in the world. At 131 metres long and 3 metres high, you’re in for a visual extravaganza as you discover the underwater wonders of the aquarium.
6. Get out on the water
Alanya’s clear waters and active underwater eco-system make it the perfect place for water sports. You can try out parasailing, jet-skiing, scuba diving and kayaking, to name but a few. If you fancy taking to the waters accompanied by sea creatures, you can snorkel in a tropical reef or swim with stingrays at Sealanya Dolphinpark. And if swimming with dolphins is on your wish list, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to tick it off here.
