Alanya holidays

Alanya holidays

Deals from £157 per person

Nestled just behind the Taurus Mountains, Alanya is a pretty little medieval town with a long stretch of sandy beach that’s perfect for families. Find a quiet spot on the shore and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean Sea, or head to the bars and restaurants around the harbour for a great night out, Turkish style.

Things to do

Find yourself a quiet spot on Cleopatra Beach and lie back and enjoy the sunshine. Admire the emerald waters as you parasail or cruise along the coast. Make sure you follow the long road to the famous Seljuk castle and watch the boats as they enter the harbour. Kick your evening off with a refreshing cocktail in a bar on the beach. As the sun goes down, head to the centre of town to one of the lively bars or clubs.

Excellent beaches

Alanya is well known for its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. Take your pick from a duo of award-winning sand spots, separated by a peninsula. On one side you’ve got the two-kilometre stretch known as Cleopatra (aptly named after the world-renowned Egyptian Queen) with its dramatic castle views, bar-lined promenade and family-friendly facilities. While Eastern Beach is a rockier number, perfect for avid snorkellers looking to explore the underwater wonders of the Med.  

And you’ll find plenty of stylish stays along Alanya’s coastline too, just think of the sunset viewings! Looking for an all-singing, all-dancing All Inclusive break just footsteps from the ocean? Long Beach Resort not only places you 200m from the Turkish Riviera, but it’s home to four a la carte restaurants, boasts 5 flashy stars and has its own waterpark as well as a funfair! The beachfront base of the luxurious Eftalia Ocean won’t disappoint either. But if the spa scene is just as important as the seascapes, Alan Xafira Deluxe should be on your must-visit list.

History and culture

The popular resort has both a contemporary and traditional feel to it and is located on the south west coast of Turkey. This means that anyone wanting to travel here can expect to find long stretches of golden sand and beautiful, turquoise waters. Tourism in the city developed in the late 1950s as many people came to Alanya to visit the Damlatas Caves, which are well known for their healing qualities. Alanya was once called Korakesion, which translates, to beautiful mountain, thanks to the rocky landscape and magnificent mountains that surround the area.

Food and drink

There are plenty of great places to eat and drink in Alanya, with variety to suit any appetite. Whether you want to sample traditional Turkish delights or even Belgium waffles and crepes, this resort has it all. Vintage Brasserie & Winehouse is a popular restaurant that has a hassle free approach to fine dining. If you don’t know what you want to order, the helpful staff are on hand to recommend delicious dishes. Sample freshly made cuisine and drink from the carefully selected wine menu in a calming, cosy setting.

As well as the food, Alanya is also home to a selection of bars that open daily. Grab a partner and dance in the Latino themed bar or boogie the night away on the two dance floors to the latest music at the Havana Club. Have a fresh, fruity cocktail or two and party the night away under the indoor palm trees.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Antalya | Beldibi | Belek | Bodrum | Dalaman | Goynuk |  Istanbul | Izmir | Kemer | Konakli | Lara Beach | Side

Map of Alanya

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7-31 ℃

Alanya enjoys warm, dry summers and mild winters. 

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4 hours 5 minutes

Antalya airport (AYT), 126km of the resort.

Alanya is best for...

Best for history lovers: From the Red Tower to the Seljuk’s old shipyard – lose yourself in the town’s medieval history. 

Best for sun worshippers: With up to 14 hours of sunshine a day during the summer months, you’ll love soaking up the rays on one of Alanya’s beaches. 

Best for partygoers: Party until the early hours at one of the bars and clubs near the harbour.

Fast facts for Alanya

Language: 

The language spoken in Alanya is Turkish.

Currency:

 The currency used in Alanya is Turkish Lira (TRY).

Local Time:

 Alanya is 2 hours ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to:

 Antalya Airport. The transfer time to Alanya is about 2 hours. 

Flight time:

 The Alanya flight time is 4 hours.

Visas and health:

 If you’re a British Citizen and you’re travelling to Alanya for a holiday, you will not need a visa unless you are planning on staying for more than 90 days in a 180-day period. If you need any more advice on Turkey visas, or entry requirements - please visit FCDO website for the latest guidance. 

Holiday destinations related to Alanya:

Getting around Alanya

By dolmus: Hop on a cheap and cheerful dolmus to get around the centre. 

By foot: To avoid the crowded buses, explore the town on foot.

Events in Alanya

For culture enthusiasts: Every May, the Alanya International Culture and Art Festival brings a variety of street shows and exhibitions to the town.

For jazz fans: Listen to the smooth sounds of trumpets and trombones at the Red Tower at the Alanya Jazz Festival, every September. 

For art lovers: Admire amazing wood sculptures at the Alanya Wood Sculpture Symposium exhibitions in November.

Alanya weather

Temperature: 7-31 °C

Boasting highs of 31 (˚C) and up to 14 hours of sunshine a day, summer is the best time to hit the beach in Alanya. Sea temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy a swim in the autumn, while winter’s mild weather makes it perfect for exploring. Rainfall starts to decrease from January onwards and temperatures are a pleasant 20 by the peak of spring.

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