Alanya, Turkey: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

For travelers planning a stay in Alanya, the choice of area can shape your experience — from the energy of the city center to the calm of its coastal outskirts. To make the most of Alanya’s beaches, history, and nightlife, many visitors stay near Cleopatra Beach, one of the most popular parts of town. This area combines golden sands, restaurants, and easy access to attractions like Damlataş Cave and Alanya Castle. Here you’ll find Alaiye Kleopatra Hotel offering comfortable rooms, a pool, and sea views just steps from the beach. Another excellent option nearby is Kaptan Hotel, a long-standing favorite close to the harbor and nightlife, perfect for travelers who want convenience and coastal charm.

For a more local feel, the Alanya Old Town and Harbor district blends history and atmosphere, with boutique hotels nestled among cobblestone streets and ancient walls. Staying here gives you the charm of Ottoman-style architecture and quick access to the Red Tower, shipyard, and seaside promenade. Hotel Villa Turka is a standout — a beautifully restored stone mansion offering panoramic sea views and serene gardens. Another gem is Hotel Kaptan, ideally placed for exploring the marina and enjoying Alanya’s vibrant dining scene.

If you prefer a quieter, more resort-style experience, head east toward Oba and Tosmur, where the vibe is laid-back, and the beaches are wider and less crowded. This area suits families and travelers looking for all-inclusive comfort without being far from the city center. Diamond Hill Resort Hotel offers modern amenities, a private beach area, and stunning sea views. Nearby, Asia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel provides luxurious spa facilities, multiple dining options, and easy access to the promenade.

For a scenic escape with nature close at hand, the Dim River Valley area north of the city offers peaceful stays surrounded by greenery and mountain views. Ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, this area has cozy hotels and guesthouses by the riverbanks. Club Paradiso Hotel & Resort provides a combination of resort amenities and hillside tranquility, while smaller family-run lodges along the Dim River offer a more authentic Turkish countryside experience. Whether you want a beach retreat, historic charm, or mountain calm, Alanya offers accommodation for every style and budget.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Alanya. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Visiting Alanya in Spring (Best)

Spring is the best time to visit Alanya, when the city awakens in full color and the Mediterranean air feels fresh and inviting. From March to May, temperatures range between 20°C and 28°C, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities without the intense summer heat. The turquoise sea begins to warm, and the beaches are pleasantly quiet. This is also the season when the Alanya International Culture and Art Festival takes place, usually in late May or early June, filling the streets with music, dance, and food stalls celebrating Turkish and Mediterranean heritage. Nature lovers will find the surrounding Taurus Mountains lush and perfect for hiking or picnicking.

Visiting Alanya in Summer

From June to August, Alanya becomes a sun-soaked paradise, attracting visitors from across the world. Daytime temperatures often climb above 32°C, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports along Cleopatra Beach and Keykubat Beach. The city comes alive at night, with rooftop bars, seaside restaurants, and beach clubs buzzing until late. Summer also hosts several open-air concerts, sailing events, and cultural performances at the Alanya Castle amphitheater. While it’s the busiest time of year, the festive energy and long sunny days make summer a truly vibrant season in Alanya.

Visiting Alanya in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, offers a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. The sea remains warm enough for swimming well into October, and daytime temperatures stay around 25°C. This is an excellent time to explore historical sites like the Red Tower, Seljuk Shipyard, and Alanya Archaeological Museum without the summer crowds. Local markets brim with fresh pomegranates, figs, and olives — a treat for food lovers. The Alanya International Jazz Days, held in September at the Red Tower, is one of the cultural highlights of the season, attracting musicians from around the world.

Visiting Alanya in Winter

Winter in Alanya, from December to February, is mild and quiet, offering a different charm. With temperatures averaging 15°C to 18°C, it’s comfortable for leisurely walks through the old town, exploring the castle, or enjoying coffee along the harbor. Though swimming is reserved for the brave, sunny days are frequent, and it’s one of the warmest coastal destinations in Turkey during this time. For travelers seeking tranquility, lower prices, and a chance to experience the local pace of life, winter in Alanya is a peaceful escape by the Mediterranean.

Getting to Alanya by Air

Nearest airports: The nearest major airport to Alanya is Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP), located just 40 kilometers east of the city center. This small but modern airport handles domestic flights from major Turkish cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, as well as seasonal international flights from across Europe. Alternatively, Antalya Airport (AYT), about 125 kilometers west of Alanya, offers a far greater range of international connections year-round.

Airport transfers: From Gazipaşa, shuttle buses, taxis, and private transfers can take you directly to Alanya in about 40–45 minutes. From Antalya Airport, the journey along the scenic D400 coastal highway takes roughly two hours by car or bus. Car rental desks are available at both airports for travelers who prefer flexibility. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to on Booking.com.

Getting to Alanya by Train

Alanya does not have a direct train connection, as Turkey's rail network does not extend to this part of the Mediterranean coast. The nearest rail terminals are in Antalya and Konya. Trains from Ankara, Eskişehir, and Istanbul run frequently to Konya, where travelers can transfer to a long-distance bus to reach Alanya. From Antalya, which is accessible by bus or flight, regular coach services continue on to Alanya, making the journey smooth and comfortable. You can use the official TCDD Taşımacılık website to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for Turkey's national and regional trains operated by TCDD. For a more streamlined experience (especially if you prefer an English interface or want to compare across countries), we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book train tickets across Turkey and the rest of Europe — all in one place.

Getting to Alanya by Car

Driving to Alanya is a scenic and enjoyable experience, with the D400 highway running parallel to the Mediterranean coast. From Antalya, the drive takes around two hours, passing through small seaside towns, banana plantations, and viewpoints overlooking the turquoise sea. The route is well-maintained and clearly signposted, with plenty of rest stops and cafes along the way. Those arriving from the east — such as Mersin or Adana — can follow the same D400 highway heading westward. Car hire is readily available in Antalya, Side, and Gazipaşa. If you are looking to rent a car in Turkey I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Travelling Around Alanya

Getting around Alanya is easy, whether you prefer to walk, take public transport, or hire a scooter. The city center and harbor area are compact and pedestrian-friendly, ideal for exploring on foot. For longer distances, the dolmuş minibuses operate frequently between neighborhoods, beaches, and nearby attractions like Dim River and the Damlataş Cave. Taxis are widely available, and mobile apps are starting to operate in the area for added convenience. Renting a car or scooter offers the freedom to explore surrounding highlights, such as Sapadere Canyon or nearby coastal villages, at your own pace.