Things to Do in Alanya: A Guide to the Castle, Caves, Nature and the Sea
What is there to do in Alanya? From the castle and shipyard to the caves, and from the beaches to boat trips; a practical guide for October travellers, organised by time of day.
Alanya is a place on the Mediterranean coast where the sea and the mountains merge. On one side lie the Taurus Mountains, and on the other, a long stretch of coastline. Right in the middle, a castle stands atop the peninsula. Most people come here thinking ‘beach, sea, holiday’. But the real pleasure of the city lies in structuring your day around the right times.
In this article, we’ve listed things to do in Alanya not by category, but according to the flow of the day. We’ve also included seasonal notes for those visiting in mid-October.
Morning: Castle Hill and the Historic Centre
When you arrive in Alanya, make Alanya Castle your first stop. With its walls and towers dating back to the 13th-century Seljuk period, the castle is the city’s symbol. From the top, you can see both the bay and the foothills of the Taurus Mountains. The morning hours are both cooler and offer softer light for photography.
Bear in mind that there are slopes and cobbled surfaces on the way up to the castle. Comfortable shoes and a bottle of water will suffice. As admission fees and opening hours may vary, please check for up-to-date information before your visit.
On the way to the castle and in the surrounding area, you can also set aside time for the following:
- Red Tower: The octagonal stone tower standing next to the harbour is Alanya’s most recognisable landmark. Check in advance whether the exhibition area inside is open.
- Shipyard: This historic shipyard, dating back to the Seljuk period, illustrates just how important maritime trade was to the city.
- Harbour area: An area where you can enjoy a short walk, have a cup of tea and take in the harbour views.
Afternoon and Beyond: Caves and Beaches
After your tour of the castle, you can head to the sea or the caves to cool off.
Damlataş and Dim Caves
The Damlataş Cave in the city centre is ideal for a quick visit. If you fancy venturing a little further afield, Dim Cave, situated at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, is well worth a visit for its stalactites and stalagmites. Opening times for the caves may vary depending on the season, so it’s worth checking before you visit.
Cleopatra Beach and City Beaches
Cleopatra Beach takes its name from the legend surrounding Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Whilst the legend lacks historical certainty, the beach’s golden sand and crystal-clear sea are very real. If you’re after a quieter day, the city centre beaches and the coastal promenade are also good options.
By mid-October, the sea is usually suitable for swimming on most days, though the weather can vary from year to year. Check the forecast before you come. A light cardigan will come in handy in the evenings.
A Nature Getaway: Get Away from the City
In the foothills of the Taurus Mountains behind Alanya, the atmosphere is very different from that by the sea. Places such as the rest areas along the Dim River and Sapadere Canyon offer a cool respite on hot days. As these spots are outside the city centre, plan your transport in advance. If you don’t have your own car, a local agency or a transfer service will make things easier.
Midday: Alanya from the Sea
Exploring Alanya by land is lovely. Viewing it from the sea, however, offers a completely different perspective. The castle, towers, cliffs and coves can all be seen in their entirety from a boat. Two distinct boat experiences stand out in this area.
Fun and Action-Packed: Pirate Boat
Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks Alanya: Pirate Boat with Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks lasts 4.5 hours and starts from 20 EUR. Transfer from your accommodation, lunch and soft drinks are included in the package. A lively option for families and groups of friends, where you can enjoy swimming and snorkelling.
More Relaxed: A Leisurely Cruise on a Double-Deck Boat
Alanya: Relaxing Cruise with Transfer Alanya: Relaxing Cruise with Transfer lasts 5 hours and starts from 30 EUR. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation and transferred to Alanya Harbour. You’ll then set sail on the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean in a spacious, double-decker boat. It’s ideal for those who want to take their time and enjoy the sun and the scenery.
If you’re not sure which to choose, ask yourself this: do I want a day of lively entertainment, or a peaceful, relaxing break? Departure days and times may vary depending on the season, so please check before booking.
Evening: Sunset and Dining
Evenings in Alanya are particularly lovely. You can watch the sunset from the slopes of the castle, around the harbour or along the coastal promenade. As the sun sets earlier in October than in summer, plan your evening accordingly.
For dinner, you’ll find seafood, local meze and Mediterranean specialities at the seaside restaurants. Alanya’s local banana is also a regional speciality – do give it a try if you get the chance.
If the Weather Turns: A Back-up Plan
Your plans for a day at sea may be disrupted by wind or rain. On such days, you could:
- Explore the Alanya Museum and the historic centre
- Visit a cave
- Go shopping in the bazaar and spend some time in a café
Bear in mind that boat trips may be postponed depending on the weather. Leaving a flexible day in your schedule will make things easier.
Practical Notes
- Days are generally warm in mid-October. Sun cream, a hat and water are still essential.
- There’s a lot of walking at the historic sites. Choose non-slip, comfortable shoes.
- Admission fees, opening hours and operating days may vary. Check for up-to-date information before you go.
- Setting aside one day for land activities and one for the sea reduces both tiredness and the stress of planning.
There’s plenty to do in Alanya, but don’t try to cram it all into a single day. Spending the morning at the castle, the afternoon by the sea and the evening on the beach offers a sufficient and enjoyable rhythm for getting to know the town.
