Alanya is a beautiful seaside resort on the Turkish coast nestled between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Blessed with a warm climate, long sandy beaches and a vast range of historical and archaeological sites Alanya, in the province of Antalya has become a popular destination for tourists. In the city itself there are wonderful restaurants, plenty of hotels, cafes and bars and everywhere you look you see evidence of the way the local people embrace their heritage and respect their history. Throughout the centuries many different occupiers have inhabited the city and each has left their mark in the way of spectacular architecture and impressive monuments.
The perfect combination of mountains and seaside in Alanya means that one day can be spent relaxing on the beach and the next could be spent hiking through the hills in search of the many archaeological sites dotted throughout the region.
While Alanya itself it truly beautiful, the surrounding area also offers much to be explored. Here are our top three day excursions in the area, all offered by CityDiscovery.
Pamukkale
For just under £30 you can head out to the wonderful site of Pamukkale, the rather unusual and somewhat mystical mountain made up of white bumps and folds that have been created by the calcium deposits from the flowing waters of the hot springs. Pamukkale means ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish and refers to the cloud-like appearance of the hillside. You can also visit Hierapolis, the UNESCO World Heritage site that is known to be the oldest thermal city in the world.
Lycian Rock Tombs, Myra and Kekova
This full on day tour takes in a little bit of everything including activity, history and nature. First you head to the rock tombs of Myra, the town that today is known as Demre. The rock tombs and amphitheatre here are awesome to see. Myra is also home to the Santa Claus Church, named after St Nicholas who performed most of his good work in the town. The church is the most visited site in the town but there is much more to see besides. Before returning to Alanya you will have the chance to take a boat trip and explore the underwater remains of Simena, a sunken city. There will be time for snorkelling too. This tour costs just over £32.
A Day Rafting
If you are in need of an adrenalin injection then the rafting tour along the Koprucay Canyon could be for you. A stunning ride over 12 km takes you through the spectacular scenery of the Taurus Mountains in boats that can accommodate 2, 8, 10 or 12 people. The rafting adventure is followed by lunch and free time to explore the national park. And all this for just over £18.
How to Get There
Alanya has an airport of its own but most visitors fly into Antalya, which is an hour and a half’s drive away. Antalya receives flights from many European cities including Dusseldorf, London, Vienna and Istanbul. If you are looking for an efficient and low cost way to get to Alanya, book your transfer with us at Shuttle Direct and you will be guaranteed an excellent service. We know that getting to your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go is important and we are here for you to accommodate just that.
Where to Stay
Sun Hotel – The Sun Hotel is our choice of a low cost accommodation option. Just steps away from its own private beach in Alanya, the hotel has air-conditioned rooms and balconies that boast wonderful sea views. Rooms are basic but comfortable and all are en suite. A buffet is served in the restaurant that is also open for lunch and dinner. A 24-hour reception staff is on hand to offer information and recommendations for places to eat and things to do in the area.
Kleopatra Fatih Hotel – Less than 100m from the famous Cleopatra Beach is the Fatih Hotel, our recommendation of mid range accommodation. Boasting a private beach with sun loungers and umbrellas, its own pool and even a Turkish bath, this hotel truly is a hidden gem. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and all rooms are air-conditioned, have TV and also a balcony. You can eat your breakfast in your room here, but should you choose to head to the restaurant, you can enjoy breakfast buffet style. There are a fitness suite, a sauna and massage rooms and the children’s pool and play area make this hotel the perfect choice for families.
White Gold Hotel – Our more expensive choice of accommodation is the White Gold Hotel, which has its own private beach, pool and spa with sauna, Turkish bath and fitness room. All bedrooms have air-conditioning, satellite TV and a seafront balcony. There is a kettle in every room as well as a fridge that you can have stocked with bottled water for a surcharge. Bathrooms have showers and hairdryers. The restaurant serves meals buffet style and the menu is made up of Turkish and international dishes. The parasols and loungers are available for free, both at the pool and at beach so you can choose to relax in the shade or soak up the rays.
