Alanya Castle

Castle in Alanya

Rising proudly above the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Alanya Castle is the city's crown jewel — a magnificent fortress that captures the essence of this sun-soaked coastal town. Perched 250 meters high on a rocky peninsula, the castle offers sweeping views of Alanya's beaches, harbor, and mountains, making it one of the most unforgettable landmarks on Turkey's southern coast. Walking its ancient paths feels like stepping back in time, where echoes of empires — Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuk — still linger in the stone walls and towers.

Today, the castle is not just a relic of the past but also one of the most atmospheric places in Alanya. Locals come here to admire the sunset, while travelers wander its ramparts, camera in hand, tracing the outline of the old city walls as they tumble down toward the sea. This spot is one of the best places to see in Alanya and a highlight of any walking tour of Alanya, combining history, natural beauty, and culture in one unforgettable experience.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
How to Get There
Practical Tips
Is Alanya Castle Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

Alanya Castle, or Alanya Kalesi, dates back to the 13th century when the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I conquered the city and turned it into a fortified stronghold. The site itself, however, has been inhabited since antiquity, with the earliest fortifications built during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The Seljuks expanded these defenses dramatically, constructing over 6.5 kilometers of walls with 140 towers, 400 cisterns, and impressive gates to secure the city from naval attacks.

The fortress served both military and residential purposes. Inside its walls were palaces, mosques, baths, and houses, making it a self-sufficient citadel. Its position overlooking the harbor gave it a strategic advantage for monitoring sea trade and defending the coast. Later, under Ottoman rule, the castle continued to serve as a lookout and garrison, though much of the population moved downhill as the city expanded. Today, Alanya Castle stands as a living monument to centuries of history, restored and carefully preserved for visitors to explore.

Things to See and Do

Exploring Alanya Castle is a journey through time. The upper citadel area, known as Ehmedek, contains the best-preserved sections of the fortress, including defensive towers and remains of ancient cisterns. From here, you'll have incredible panoramic views over Cleopatra Beach to the west and the harbor to the east. The small Byzantine Church of St. George near the summit, with faint traces of frescoes, offers a quiet reminder of Alanya's Christian past.

You can walk along sections of the fortress wall for breathtaking photo opportunities, or simply pause at one of the shaded viewpoints to take in the Mediterranean breeze. Near the castle entrance, local artisans sell traditional crafts and refreshments, while a few charming cafes and terraces offer Turkish tea with unforgettable views. For the best experience, visit in the late afternoon when the light turns golden — a magical moment for photographers.

How to Get There

Reaching Alanya Castle is easy and part of the fun. The most scenic option is the Alanya Cable Car (Teleferik), which departs from Cleopatra Beach and glides up the hillside in about 10 minutes, offering stunning coastal views. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi up the winding road from the city center, which also passes several lookout points. For those who enjoy walking, the steep but rewarding hike from Damlataş or the harbor takes about 45 minutes.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Late afternoon or sunset for cooler temperatures and incredible light
Entrance fee in Euros: €5 (approx. 150 TL)
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (summer), 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (winter)
How long to spend: 1.5–2 hours
Accessibility: Some areas are uneven and steep; the cable car provides easy access to the upper sections
Facilities: Cafes, restrooms, and souvenir shops available near the top
Photography tip: Capture panoramic shots of the coastline from the western wall near Ehmedek Tower
Guided tours: Available daily from the city center or included in full-day Alanya sightseeing packages
Nearby food options: Try local dishes or gözleme at small cafés along the castle path

Is Alanya Castle Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Alanya Castle is one of the top attractions in Alanya and a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Its commanding views, rich history, and tranquil atmosphere make it an experience that goes beyond sightseeing — it's a window into the soul of the Turkish Riviera. Whether you come for the architecture, the scenery, or simply the sense of peace that comes with standing atop a centuries-old fortress, Alanya Castle will stay with you long after you've left.

Nearby Attractions

Red Tower (Kızıl Kule): Iconic octagonal tower and maritime museum near the harbor.
Seljuk Shipyard (Tersane): Medieval dockyard with five stone arches extending into the sea.
Damlataş Cave: A natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites, said to aid respiratory health.
Cleopatra Beach: Golden sands and turquoise waters at the foot of the castle.
Alanya Archaeological Museum: A compact but fascinating museum displaying local artifacts from Roman and Byzantine times.

The Alanya Castle appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Alanya!

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