Top 10 Must-Have Experiences in Alanya, Turkey
Alanya, one of the most popular holiday destinations in Turkey, offers unforgettable moments to its visitors not only with its beaches but also with its historical buildings, natural beauties and unique activities. If you are wondering what to do in Alanya, where to visit or what places to see in Alanya, we have brought together 10 unique experiences carefully selected for you in this guide. So, what to do in Alanya? Be sure to check out this list to spend your holiday more meaningfully and fully!
1. Take a Historical Journey Facing the Mediterranean Sea from Alanya Castle
Alanya Castle, rising on a magnificent peninsula on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the most important historical buildings of the region. This enormous structure, where the first traces of settlement date back to the Hellenistic Period, has become a favourite refuge for pirates in the Mediterranean. The castle, which attracts attention with its geographical structure suitable for defence and dominating the harbour, was captured by the Roman Empire after being used as a base by pirates and equipped with large-scale construction activities.
However, Alanya Castle reached its true splendour during the reign of the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I. During this period, the castle was not only a defence centre but also a living space, and structures such as palaces, mosques, tombs, cisterns and even shipyards were built inside. Churches and chapels from the Byzantine period also reflect the historical diversity of the castle. Today, as you walk along the castle walls, you witness the traces of the past at every step, and when you reach the summit, you will encounter a breathtaking view that reveals the whole of Alanya.
2. Discover a Healing and Mysterious World in Damlatas Cave
Discovered completely by chance during quarry works in 1948, Damlatas Cave is today one of the most interesting points of Alanya with its natural beauty and contribution to health tourism. The feature that gives the cave its name is the water that continues to drip from the stalactites inside even today. These natural structures, formed over millions of years, take you on a journey into the depths of time as soon as you enter.
The constant temperature of 22 degrees Celsius and humidity of up to 95 per cent create relaxing effects, especially for those suffering from asthma and respiratory diseases. For this reason, the cave has become a favourite destination not only for nature lovers but also for visitors in search of health. Damlataş, which is the first cave opened to tourism in Turkey, is a unique structure worth seeing both scientifically and aesthetically. The minutes you will spend in the mystical atmosphere of the cave will promise you a healing breath for your physical and mental health.
3. Follow the Footsteps of History in the Ancient City of Syedra
The ancient city of Syedra, located at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, east of Alanya today, is an open-air archaeological park for those who want to witness history. Located on the western border of the ancient Cilicia region, this city made its name on the stage of history with coins minted during the reign of the Roman Emperor Tiberius in the 1st century AD. The ruins that have survived to the present day reveal that Syedra had a planned city structure surrounded by a city wall.
Visitors enter the city through the monumental west gate and have the chance to wander through an urban texture full of buildings bearing the traces of the Roman and Byzantine periods. The city's water supply was provided from the Cistern Cave in the southwest, which contains religious frescoes from the early Christian period. There are also temples, theatres, basilicas, civil buildings, houses, shops and a magnificent bath with mosaic traces on the floor. Syedra, which dates back to the 7th century BC and is thought to have been used until the 13th century AD, is not only an archaeological site; it is a living history scene that brings together the past and the present.
Source: Antalya3T
4. Journey Through the Layers of Time at Alanya Museum
For those who want to get to know Alanya's rich historical heritage more closely, the Alanya Museum is another important stop that must be visited. The bronze statue of Heracles from the 2nd century AD, one of the most remarkable pieces of the museum, has great value not only artistically but also culturally. However, the artefacts exhibited in the museum are not limited to this.
The collection, which covers a wide time span from the Palaeolithic Age to the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods, includes everyday items made of glass, bronze and ceramics, as well as jewellery, grave gifts, sculptures and a rich collection of coins. Within the museum, there is also a special hall where artefacts from Alanya Castle are exhibited and an interactive Ship and Maritime Hall on maritime history. This section, in particular, offers the experience of being at the helm of an ancient ship, giving all visitors, especially children, both educational and entertaining moments. Alanya Museum is a special cultural stop that tells the past in today's language with its modern museology approach.
Source: Türkiye Kültür Portalı
5. Meet the Turquoise Waters of the Mediterranean Sea at Cleopatra Beach
Cleopatra Beach, which lies to the west of Alanya and is named after Cleopatra, one of the most fascinating female figures in history, is as fascinating with its natural beauty as it is with its legends. According to the rumours, Cleopatra, the Queen of Ancient Egypt, loved swimming on this beach when she visited Alanya and even had a secret tunnel built from the castle to the beach.
Stretching for 2.5 kilometres, this unique coastline stands out with its cleanliness and environmental awareness, with its Blue Flag. With its fine golden sands and crystal clear waters, it is one of the most impressive swimming spots in the Mediterranean. The hours you spend watching the sunset or the moments you spend alone with a quiet sea in the early morning light make Cleopatra Beach not only a swimming spot but also a place of spiritual serenity.
6. Journey to the Depths of Dim Cave
Located at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, approximately 12 kilometres from Alanya city centre, Dim Cave is one of the most striking natural formations of the region. Located high above the Dim Stream Valley, the cave has a geological history of more than 1 million years. Opened in 1998 for tourism, the cave consists of four separate galleries and the stalactites and stalagmites inside offer an extraordinary visual experience. With a navigable length of approximately 360 metres, it allows visitors to see the works of art created by nature underground.
Beyond its visual splendour, the cave also attracts attention with its constant temperature and high humidity. It is a cool and peaceful escape, especially in the sweltering heat of summer. There is also a small underground pond at the end of Dim Cave. Walking in the cave, which turns into a magical environment with its lighting, offers an unforgettable experience for those who want to get away from the flow of time.
Source: Çok Okuyan Çok Gezen
7. Cool Yourself in Dim Stream
When you have been to Dim Cave, it is impossible to return without resting in the promenade areas along the Dim Stream, which is located nearby. Dim Stream, which is frequented by both locals and tourists on hot summer days in Alanya, is indispensable for those looking for coolness with its cold waters coming from the Taurus Mountains. The restaurants and country gardens built around the stream welcome their guests on the sofas placed on the stream or in the sitting areas with swings.
Here, you can have breakfast with local delicacies or fresh grilled fish while putting your feet in the ice-cold flowing water and relaxing, accompanied by the sound of nature. Especially in the morning hours, accompanied by birdsong and rustling leaves, this environment is almost a therapy area for those who want to get away from the stress of city life. Dim Stream is perfect for those who want to relax and have a pleasant time in touch with nature.
Source: Türkiye Kültür Portalı
8. Witness History from the Sky with Alanya Cable Car
Alanya Cable Car, located in Alanya city centre, offers visitors a unique viewing experience beyond being a modern means of transportation. Starting from Damlataş Beach and extending to the skirts of Alanya Castle, the blue of the Mediterranean Sea, the city view and the splendour of the historical castle are laid under your feet along the 900-metre route.
This journey, which takes about 5-6 minutes, not only facilitates transportation; it is also a great opportunity to take panoramic photos, watch nature from above and enjoy the view to the fullest. At the end of the cable car journey, you can spend a peaceful time in the historical setting by strolling on the walking paths around the castle. The cable car journey, especially at sunset, offers an experience that will be remembered.
9. Take a Closer Look at Seljuk Seafaring by Visiting the Shipyard and the Red Tower
The Red Tower, one of the most iconic buildings of Alanya, was built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I in the 13th century. The tower, so named thanks to its red coloured bricks, played a key role in the defence of Alanya Port and was also one of the strongest examples of Seljuk architecture on the Mediterranean coast.
After climbing the spiral stairs, visitors to the tower encounter a view overlooking the city and the harbour. The Seljuk Shipyard, located near the Red Tower, was built in 1227 and made Alanya one of the most important naval bases in the Mediterranean. The shipyard is fascinating both architecturally and historically, with its five-eyed structure and vaulted arches opening to the shore.
When these two structures are visited together, they offer the visitor a holistic view of the maritime power, strategic importance and technical capability of Alanya during the Seljuk period. These impressive areas with their historical depth are an ideal stop for those who want to understand the past.
10. Experience Adventure in the Heart of Nature in Sapadere Canyon
Sapadere Canyon, located approximately 45 kilometres from Alanya centre, is a natural wonder hidden in the depths of the Taurus Mountains. This impressive canyon, which is approximately 750 metres long and reaches a height of 400 metres in places, is a unique route for those who want to be alone with nature and experience adrenaline-filled moments.
Thanks to the wooden walking platforms, you can safely pass through the canyon, walk along the clear stream and reach the small waterfall at the end of the canyon. Especially in summer, this cool and shady environment is ideal as an escape. If you dare, you can let nature test you by swimming in the icy water.
Sapadere Village, located just at the entrance of the canyon, is rich in local products, handcrafted textiles and organic food. Sapadere, which offers both a nature walk and a cultural village trip, is one of the most impressive nature experiences around Alanya.
Source: Viator
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