A Travel Guide to Attractions and Things to Do in Alanya, Turkey
Alanya is a city located on the Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey, known for its beautiful beaches and historical attractions. Here are some recommendations for things to do and see in Alanya:
1. Visit the Alanya Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
2. Take a stroll along the Alanya harbor, where you can try some fresh seafood or enjoy a boat tour.
3. Visit the Red Tower Museum, a former defense tower that now houses a museum with exhibits on the city’s history.
4. Relax on the sandy Cleopatra Beach, which is named after the Egyptian queen who is said to have bathed there.
5. Take a trip to the ancient city of Syedra, located just a short drive from Alanya, to see the remains of a Roman theater and bath complex.
6. Go paragliding or parasailing to get a bird’s-eye view of the city and the coastline.
7. Visit the Alanya Waterfall, located in the Taurus Mountains, for a refreshing swim in the cool waters.
8. Try some of the local cuisine, such as kebabs, baklava, and lahmacun (a type of thin, crispy pizza topped with minced meat).
9. Visit the Alanya Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the region’s history, including ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.
10. Take a walk through the old town of Alanya, which is home to the Alanya Bazaar, a colorful market filled with local goods, and the Alanya Mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture.
11. Head to the Dim Cave, a natural cave located just outside of the city, where you can take a boat tour through the underground channels.
12. Spend a day at the Alanya Waterpark, which has a variety of slides, pools, and other attractions for all ages.
13. Take a boat tour to see the coast from the water and visit some of the nearby islands, such as the Phosphorus Cave Island or the Cleopatra Island.
14. Go on a Jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains, where you can see the scenic countryside and visit traditional villages.
15. Try some of the local cuisine, such as çökertme (a type of stuffed grape leaves), köfte (meatballs), and tavuk göğsü (a dessert made from chicken and milk).