If you and your mates are celebrating the end of Uni exams, the end of term or even if you’re just looking to let your hair down in the sunshine, Alanya (on Turkey’s south coast) could be the perfect destination.
More than just a party capital – although, boy, does this town known how to party! – Alanya offers beautiful golden sand beaches by day, and a club and bar scene which would put most European resorts to shame by night. There are even beautiful ancient historic buildings which, while you might not want to spend your holiday exploring them, do make a beautiful backdrop for your partying selfies.
While the resort has loads to offer during the day, from water sports to simply lounging around in the sun, it is at night that Alanya really comes into its own. As the sun sets, the neon lights of the town’s ‘Bar District’ begin to light up in a part of town where revellers will find everything they’re looking for a night of booze-fuelled dancing and partying. So say “serefe” (that’s “cheers” in Turkish) and book a trip of a lifetime to the Turkish coast.
The Bar District
Take a stroll down to Alanya’s harbour at night and it will be hard to miss the bustling crowds, neon lights and booming tunes which pour out of the resort’s famous Bar District.
Whether you’re looking for a good place to eat, a great bar to meet up with mates, a lively party venue to kick off the night’s fun or a club to dance in until dawn, you’ll find it all in the Bar District. From small, friendly restaurants serving local food, to super-clubs stretching over four floors, and even to outdoor clubs where you can dance under the stars, this area plays host to all of Alanya’s best nightlife options.
With so many venues to choose from, here’s my guide to some of the best night spots not to miss on your next trip to the Turkish resort.
Havana Beach Club
Set right on the water’s edge, Havana Beach Club offers water sports, sun loungers and cocktails on the beach by day and hedonistic partying by night. Famous for its top DJs, great party vibe and dance floor under the stars, this is an authentic Mediterranean party venue.
Club Hollywood
Another fantastic outdoor venue set right into the cliffs of the town is the lively Club Hollywood. With its great clubbing clientele, pumping dance tunes and various live acts, this is not one for the faint-hearted partygoer.
Harry’s Pub
If you’re more into great live music and getting to know some of the locals, then check out Harry’s Pub. This is where the young of Alanya go to hear the best Turkish bands, but tourists can expect to hear enough excellent cover versions of familiar tracks to make this a great night out for anyone.
Club Summer Garden
Make sure you visit Club Summer Garden while in Alanya. More than just a club, this is a ‘concept in partying’. From the cultivated tropical gardens in which the club is set to the swimming pool, four bars and private VIP floor, this is the ultimate in Mediterranean clubbing. The vibe of the music will depend on when you visit but expect live national and international acts, big name DJs and even a sprinkling of Turkish pop.
How to Get to Alanya
The closest airport to Alanya is Atalya Airport about two hour’s drive along the south coast from the resort. Regular flights to Atalya fly from airports across the UK with a range of airlines, including easyJet. The flight takes around four and a half hours.
Save time and money for you and your friends by booking a group transfer from Atalya Airport with Shuttle Direct. You can book online before you set off, so that you know you will be met at the airport by an English-speaking driver who will have a vehicle big enough to fit you all in, at a price set and agreed in advance.
Where to Stay
Kleopatra Atlas Hotel – Base yourself just two minutes from the beach at the Kleopatra Atlas Hotel. The hotel also has its own outdoor pool, restaurant, spa and wellness centre. There’s even a bar downstairs and, of course, free WiFi throughout. Best of all, it’s ‘adults only’ so you won’t be surrounded by screaming kids.
Artemis Princess Hotel – Another option close to the beach is the four-star Artemis Princess Hotel. With two swimming pools and a great sun terrace for tanning, this is perfect for those mornings when you’re feeling a little too delicate after a night out to make it to the beach. And if you need a little extra hangover cure there’s a lovely hammam and sauna on site. All the rooms have their own balcony and there’s free WiFi throughout the property. There’s also a great rooftop restaurant with views out over the resort.
Bilkay Hotel – Close to the beautiful Kleopatra Beach, the Bilkay Hotel also has its own outdoor pool and sun terrace. All the rooms have balconies and there’s a lively bar downstairs with regular evening entertainment, including Turkish belly dancing! The hotel is conveniently located close to a local bus stop for buses to the bars, restaurants and clubs in the lively Bar District. There’s free WiFi for guests throughout the hotel.
About Shuttle Direct
One of the easiest and most economical ways to get a group of friends from the airport directly to their accommodation is by taking a group transfer with Shuttle Direct, the leading provider of airport transfers in Europe and North Africa. You can book online with Shuttle Direct before you leave home and rest assured that a driver will be waiting for your party as your airplane touches down, ready to whisk you off to your holiday resort.
