Alanya
Overview
Alanya is one of the most stunning places situated near the Mediterranean Sea and facing the Torus Mountains. This has been the core center of countless civilizations for hundreds of years and served as a citadel for the empires of Seljuk, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman.
At a drive of 2 hours from the main airport, Alanya commences to create its impression through a multitude of natural and historical charms. The foundation of the first hotel in 1958 started the tourism era for this gorgeous beach resort city and since then the tourism companies and the hoteliers have been in the sprint of creating ever new and lavish selections to attract the tourists.
Sports & Adventure
Not only the historic monuments but also the natural beauty of the deep blue sea spreading alongside the coast would make you extend your trip in this splendid city.
Alanya Water Planet Aqua Park:
Your holiday would be incomplete if you don’t get a dip in the wave pool at this Aqua Park. Dedicate your day to fun and recreate your adventurous side by bungee jumping and winding down through 24 different slides.
Cleopatra Beach:
Located on the west side of the Alanya Castle and named after the Queen Cleopatra of Egypt, this beach is loaded with activities and relaxation at the same time. The completely enclosed beach is really an incredible spot having the fine granules of white sand that took millions of years to form. Walk barefoot on the beach and experience invaluable tranquility. To leave behind every grain of this white sand, there are compulsory showers on both verges of the beach.
Excursion Boats:
Set out with your friends at 10 in the morning to reach Rıhtım Caddesi from where the boats leave for a six-hour excursion. Traversing through the caves and passing the Cleopatra Beach confront the scenic beauty of the Turkish Riviera and dive in the refreshing sea near the Phosphorous cave. Whether you want to swim or relax or just breathe the air around the turquoise waters, a full day boat excursion is totally worth your time and one of the top things to do in Alanya.
Taurus Mountain Jeep Safari:
The best way to enjoy the countryside of Alanya is through the thrilling adventure of jeep safari. Get acquainted with the village life of Turkey and stop by to pray at the old mosque there, this safari is impeccable for those who wish to flee the Mediterranean heat and experience Alanya in a new and different way.
The 4x4 jeep will take you through the scenic dense pine forests as well as the dingy tracks. Enjoy a stopover for lunch and jump into the glistening water in the end to wash away the dust.
White Water Rafting:
This thrilling adventure is a must to enjoy with your family. Give your vacation a chance of this new adrenaline-pumping adventure on the Köprüçay River of the Köprülü Canyon. Make your bookings with the help of your tour guide and get ready to raft fully equipped. The professional guides would be there to assist you and therefore no experience is required to enjoy the rafting. During summer as many as 7000 people can raft at the same time.
Things to do
Multiple events in Alanya, flattering every taste and uplifting every age, welcome the contestants from all around the world to indulge into the activities amidst the landscapes and historic appeals of the city.
European Beach Volleyball Tournament:
At the Cleopatra Beach, sports get unified with the natural beauty where European Beach Volleyball Tournament is held and fill the locals as well as the tourists with enthusiasm.
Annual European Triathlon Championship, Turkey Regional Beach Soccer League, Alanya Tennis Tournament and International Handball Festival are the major sport events held in Alanya.
Alanya International Culture and Art Festival:
The Southern Mediterranean town of Alanaya dedicates the last Saturday and Sunday of May to celebrate art and culture. This festival engages the tourists and becomes a source of bonding with the neighboring cities. One of the invited sister cities entertains the audience with their specialty. Previous few years have been quite a highlight with the Polish orchestras and Latvian oil painters while Alanya amuses with its folk dances.
Festivals of Art and Music:
Alanya Wood Sculpture Symposium is an amazing exhibit in the city for art lovers while the fans of music would love to get entertained at the Alanya Jazz Festival.
This superb tourist spot always yearns to serve its visitors with the best of attractions to make the holiday worthwhile. The warm hospitality of the city never falls short to make your stay unforgettable.
Culture and History
Known as “the town where the sun smiles” or “paradise on earth”, this city with the brightest of blue colours would captivate you with its scenic beaches, wonderful palm trees and a wealth of history.
Alanya Castle:
The historical gems that are a must-see for every visitor include Alanya Castle with a heighted wall of 250 meters and 83 towers. This castle dates back to the 13th century to the time of Seljuk and it still holds a vital position as a center of various activities.
Red Tower:
The Seljuks erected an octagonal structure of the Red Tower in 13th century with the purpose of guarding the harbor. In the present day it serves as the Museum of Ethnography.
The Archaeological Museum :
The history-lovers must visit the Archaeological Museum for it unveils the antiquities from different eras.
Akshebe Mosque and Tomb,Suleymaniye Mosque, the Citadel Church, Alara Han and Castle are some additional must-see places of Alanya,momentous for their historic and architectural feel.
