Making the most of Alanya
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
A sprawling Seljuk castle dominates Alanya, while sea arrivals are also greeted by an octagonal red-stone tower and a traditional minaret.
The port sits very close to the centre.
Covering 3000 sqm., the terminal has a fully air-conditioned passenger lounge, duty-free store, restaurant, cafeteria, telephone booths and an ATM.
Alanya has passed between rulers many times over the centuries, a history reflected in its changing names. Its Latin name was Coracesium and its Greek name Korakesion, both deriving from the Luwian Korakassa, meaning "point/protruding city".
The Citadel of Alanya has 6.5 km of walls, 140 towers, around 400 cisterns and inscribed doors. As an open-air museum, the castle presents Seljuk art and its distinctive appeal.
A broad promontory extends into the sea, separating Alanya's beaches into two distinct stretches: Eastern Beach and Cleopatra Beach, both places to relax in the sun and sea. Holidaymakers fill the beaches throughout the day. In August, Alanya hosts the International Folklore Festival, creating a festive atmosphere, while public buses and taxis make local travel straightforward.
The Alanya Museum represents the many cultures of ancient Turkey, and the Seljuk ruins lie just 5 km away.
The well-preserved Roman baths, dating from the 3rd century, are around 500m north of Ulus Meydani; they open 8.30am-12.30pm & 1.30-5.30pm Tue-Sun.
Getting around
The town and promenade are easy to explore on foot.
Alanya harbour is a lively spot for small boats and restaurants. Boat excursions visit Fosforlu Magarasi (Phosphorescent Cave), Apiklar Madarasi (Lovers' cave) and Korsanlar Madarasi (Pirates' Cave).
Taxis within town are inexpensive, regulated and readily found. On longer trips, drivers may ask for more than the meter shows, so agree the fare before setting off.
Alanya Harbour boat trips last from one hour to a full day, with most calling at Pirates’ Cave, Lovers’ Cave and Phosphorus Cave.
Nearby places
Side is a picturesque harbour town, occupied by Alexander the Great around the 3rd century BC.
Manavgat Waterfall and its surrounding tea gardens.
Food and shopping
Closed to traffic and open until midnight, the picturesque bazaar is full of handicraft stores. Souvenirs include leather and suede, hand-woven wool and silk rugs and carpets, gold and silver jewelry, semi-precious stones, meerschaum and onyx objects, mother-of-pearl-inlaid wooden furniture, brassware, copperware, glassware, pottery, ceramics, embroidery, lace and beads.
Cafes, bars, clubs, tavernas and discos in the harbour district create a colourful, lively nightlife that continues until dawn.
The restaurants along the waterfront promenade serve traditional local dishes.
Popular traditional purchases include carpets, copperware, painted ceramics and jewelry, as well as leather goods, sandals and beachwear available in most larger resorts.
Try bargaining in souvenir stores and stalls. Mini markets cover basic food supplies, while supermarkets near larger resorts are comparable with those at home. Most resorts also hold a weekly market for local produce, crafts and textiles, which is well worth visiting.
Turkey's climate allows most ingredients to be produced locally, supporting a broad and enticing range of food; Turkish cuisine is considered among the world's best. Beyond its renowned kebabs, there are many traditional dishes. Meze (appetizers) spans hundreds of small plates, from cheese with melon to elaborate stuffed vegetables, and is served in Turkish restaurants, traditionally with Raki, the clear anise-flavored spirit claimed as Turkey's national alcoholic drink.
Money
The Turkish Lira is Turkey's currency. Coastal-resort and large-city shops and restaurants often take euros and US dollars, but travellers heading elsewhere in the country are advised to carry some Turkish Lira.
Staying connected
The terminal provides complimentary wireless internet.
Emergency numbers across Turkey: Ambulance 112; Police 155.
Opening Hours and
In tourist and coastal areas, shop hours are flexible; in summer, many stay open late every evening, seven days a week, allowing visitors to browse leisurely and avoid the day's heat.