The popular resort center of the Turkish Riviera, Alanya is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and is the southernmost and easternmost beach resort in Turkey.
The ancient quarters of the city are represented by many ancient buildings: temples, minarets, as well as a small but picturesque port. In addition to its cultural and historical attractions, Alanya is famous for its wonderful beaches, which are among the best in Turkey. The beautiful sandy Cleopatra Beach, 3 km long, is located to the west of the resort, while the sands of Alanya Beach, 8 km long, stretch to the east. Tourists are presented with a huge selection of water sports entertainment both on one and the other beaches.
In ancient times, Alanya was the winter residence of the sultan, one of the main shipyards was located here, and all important sea and land routes to Alexandria passed through Alanya. The place where the shipyard used to be is now accessible to tourists.
Currently, Alanya is a famous vacation spot, primarily among young people. Along the coast, new hotels, guesthouses and camping sites are spread out on sandy beaches. The city has a wide selection of restaurants, bars and discotheques. During the summer tourist season, the population of Alanya roughly doubles. Alanya is the most popular youth and fun resort on the coast.
WEATHER
The beach season in Alanya lasts from May to October: in the summer there is cloudless hot weather, although the water in the sea warms up to a comfortable temperature only in the middle of June. The second half of autumn and winter in Alanya is very rainy and gloomy, but even at this time you can come here to visit excursions (to Cappadocia, Pamukkale, to the Green Canyon) and breathe fresh sea air. But spring in Alanya is beautiful: warm and sunny weather, lush greenery and blossoming flowers - already in April you can walk here in a T-shirt and even sunbathe.
The average air temperature in the season is 29 ° C during the day. The average water temperature in the season is 25.6 ° C.
HOW TO GET
Alanya is located 135 km from Antalya International Airport. Travel time takes approximately 1.5-2 hours. Tourists can use the services of a transfer ordered in advance, or a taxi, which is offered right at the airport exit. If you choose a budget option, then it is public transport. From the airport you need to get to the central bus station of Antalya (Otogar). Intercity buses to Alanya from Otogar.
ENTERTAINMENT AND SIGHTSEEING
In the past, a pirate base was located on the territory of Alanya, so today you can see a large number of grottoes and caves along the coast. The Dalmatash Grotto is considered the most beautiful, it is also worth visiting the Maiden's Cave, the Lovers' Cave and the Phosphorus Grotto, which got its name because of its peculiar lighting effect.
One of the most unusual buildings is the so-called "Shipyard". It is a complex of large galleries, the depth of which is 30-40 m.
Fans of historical monuments should definitely visit the ancient fortress of Cleopatra. It is located on the top of the mountain, from the platforms surrounding the fortress, there is a wonderful view of the city.
There are several important archaeological sites in the vicinity of Alanya, the artefacts discovered here can be seen in the local Archaeological Museum. It occupies a very beautiful building with columns, the most valuable exhibits of the museum are the floor mosaics, which are more than 1,800 years old.
Not far from Alanya is the small resort village of Konakli, which is also popular with tourists. This tiny town is also ideal for walking, with a picturesque park with fountains on its territory, as well as an ancient mosque and other historical buildings. One of the main attractions of the city is the colorful market. Those who do not want to go far outside the city limits should go to the central park. It was laid in 2003, the city authorities spent about five million dollars on the equipment of this park. The length of the park is 950 meters, and the width is about 480 meters. Hundreds of trees and exotic plants are planted on its territory, an artificial pond and three huge fountains are equipped.
Vacationers should visit the water park, get acquainted with the collections of the Archaeological Museum and taste the culinary masterpieces of local chefs.
Alanya offers its guests a lot of prospects for an exciting pastime. Lovers of night entertainment should visit Zape Hahn, Sedir Bar and Cafe and James Dean clubs. Koloni and Auditorium Open Air Disco are considered the most popular discos.
Those who want to get a dose of adrenaline and test their wits should visit the escape quests presented by the companies Fantasmia and Kilit. The first one offers two room options - "Morning in a bar" and "Horror story". The riddles are non-trivial, the plots are non-trivial, which will appeal to all lovers of extraordinary ideas and their implementations. The second escape quest offers to feel like real detectives, while all the wit and intelligence will be needed.
HOTELS
As for Alanya hotels, modern hotel complexes of the resort are adjacent to inexpensive and cozy boarding houses.
There are about 500 hotels in Alanya, many of which operate under the "all inclusive" system. Almost all of them are large, with their own beach, a large area and are located on the first or second lines. These are usually four- and five-star hotels, and there is practically no difference in service and conditions. Except in the size of the territory and its design. Almost everywhere there is animation, evening entertainment shows for adults, playgrounds for children. Babysitting services are often offered. In addition, tourists can always purchase an excursion to the sights of the city and other regions of Turkey.
