Turkey, Alanya - "Alanya is a city of a fairy tale-city of a dream! Local attractions!". Sights of Alanya - where to go and what to see on your own Alanya old town

Having once chosen a tour in Turkey in the city of Alanya, my husband and I honestly had no idea where we were going. We didn’t read, we weren’t interested, we went by chance. We arrived at the Antalya airport, the organizer of the trip was the Coral Travel tour operator, well done guys by the way! Clearly work! From Antalya to Alanya 2 hours 30 minutes drive. The road on the way back was a little tiring .... it was definitely more interesting there =)

We arrived at night, so we were able to see the city only the next day) And we were pleasantly surprised!

Well, for starters, what pleased us not only in Alanya, but throughout Turkey, these are roads, they are like a skating rink ... perfectly polished, you go and don’t notice the road)) Not like we have (((

The city is not big, but quite picturesque, there are more than enough hotels in it. The main attraction of the city is the Red Tower, a protective fortress of the city, located on a mountain slope.

Alanya was the famous base of the pirate fleet, founded in the 4th century BC during the Roman Empire, the echoes of which have survived to this day, in Alanya there is a beach named Mark Anthony in honor of Cleopatra, Cleopatra Beach. The name has taken root and has survived to this day.

Since the 13th century, the city has housed the winter residence of the Sultan. The port in Alanya is not big but very beautiful, with extraordinary pleasure ships.

Also in the city there is a Damlatash cave, with healing air (good for asthmatics)

It is located between Cleopatra Beach and Porto as you walk along the coastline.

The cave was discovered by accident, during the explosion of rocks, in order to expand the territory of the beach.

Near the cave, all kinds of souvenirs are actually sold, but they are expensive ... at reasonable prices you can buy all possible souvenirs and oriental sweets if you go on a jeep safari tour. Few people talk about this, but on it you will visit a mountain village, where on local bazaar for a penny buy whatever you want!!!

Also in the city there are museums, a water park, and in general, everything ...

General views of the city

If we talk about the cities of the southern coast of Turkey, then Alanya among them at first glance is an ordinary resort town. But this is only at first glance. It does not reveal its charm immediately, but gradually, as if looking closely at you, will you be able to discern its centuries-old history and glorious past behind the magnificent facades of numerous hotels and beautiful beaches. If you can, the love between you and the city will be mutual and forever.

History of Alanya

And in itself this city is a gift of love. It arose in the 4th century BC. Ancient Korakesion (as Alanya was called before) Antony presented as a gift to his beloved Cleopatra. In the 2nd century BC. here, on the border of Pamphlia and Cilicia, pirates ruled. Korakesion was their base, a resting place. The entire coast is indented with numerous bays and grottoes, where sea robbers hid their loot and shared their booty. In one of these grottoes "Kyzlar Magarasy" - "Maiden's Cave" pirates hid kidnapped women, and other captives, who were then successfully delivered to the slave markets of ancient cities.

Alanya old town

The ancient Korakesion itself, the so-called "old city" was originally located on a small rocky promontory. A well-fortified fortress was built around it by pirates, later captured by Pompey. The ancient crenellated walls of the Ichkale fortress stretch for 7 km. One of the fifty towers of "Kyzyl Kule" - "Red Tower" in the north-east of the city walls was built in 1225 from red brick, its height is 30 m. Now it houses an ethnographic museum (unfortunately, there is no Russian-speaking guide in it, but if know English well - no problem). A small Byzantine basilica has been preserved in the fortress. That's actually all that remains of the period of Byzantine rule in this city.

In the 13th century, the Seljuk sultan Aladdin Keykubad founded his winter residence in the fortress, giving it the name Alaya, which later turned into Alanya. In one of the towers there was a place of executions "Adam Atajagi": from here, those who were objectionable to the Sultan were thrown into the sea, leaving them a meager chance to survive if the condemned man threw a stone to the sea, which was actually unrealistic.

Near the harbor you can see the ancient shipyards where the Seljuks kept their fleet. Nearby is a small bath of Cleopatra, which is supposedly connected by a tunnel to the fortress.

Sights of Alanya

It remains only to visit the Old Quarter of the city, where, under the same Sultan Aladdin Keykubad, the Akchebe Sultan mosque and the Turbe tomb were erected. Be sure to check out the caravanserai, and if you're lucky, you'll see a mesmerizing performance of Sufis or the famous belly dance. Be sure to visit the Bedestan open bazaar, where you can find everything your heart desires. But even if the soul does not wish, you will still buy it, because local merchants will grab you by the sleeves, inviting you to look at the goods and begging you to buy any unnecessary nonsense, assuring you that you definitely need it. By the way, learn the two golden rules of the oriental bazaar. First, learn to politely and firmly say “no” if you really don’t need the item and you don’t want to lose money. Second, learn to bargain. Do not think that the merchant is giving you the real price. As a rule, it is overestimated five times. The ability to bargain is a kind of game, a hobby of the locals, unless they are bargained in supermarkets, and even then not always. Play this game, please both yourself and the seller, and he, smiling and pleased, will give you something really good for ridiculous money just like that, because you honor local traditions.

In general, it must be said that there are, as it were, two Alanyas - one for tourists, with luxury hotels, beaches, discos, foam parties. The other one is for the locals. And if you want to see the real Alanya - leave the hotel in the evening and take a walk along the coast. Honestly, standing on the shore and watching the crimson sun disk fall into the Mediterranean Sea, you will feel this indescribable feeling of the connection of times, realizing that before you, hundreds and thousands of years ago, people also stood on the shore in the same way and looked at the beautiful sunset. And then you will be able to see something that idle vacationers usually do not see. Here a Turkish family went to the beach with their children - no, do not swim and sunbathe. The day is the time of noisy tourists. Evening is the time of the locals. The family is located on the shore, having dinner and also admiring the sunset. Some guy stands on a rocky spit and fishes on a spinning rod. Here is a hotel Bobby running over stones and catching crabs. And everywhere you are accompanied by the heady smell of azaleas, ice-cream workers, local guides and monuments to grandfather Kemal Ataturk (well, remember ours: "Lenin lived, Lenin is alive ...").

Do you want ice cream? Go to the van and say a few words to the ice cream man in Turkish (I advise you to learn it). And now he, smiling broadly, gets you the best, wishing you a pleasant appetite. And you yourself suddenly notice that you are smiling back ...

In general, while relaxing in Turkey, smile more often, and sincerely, from the bottom of your heart. Believe me, a smile is the key that opens any door.

Alanya is a well-known and popular resort on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, where hundreds and thousands of tourists flock to during the season. The resort boasts Blue Flag beaches, gorgeous clear seas, interesting sights and a variety of activities suitable for all ages.

Many people prefer not to leave the territory of the hotels, where there is absolutely everything for a comfortable stay, but to visit Alanya and not explore the city with its surroundings means depriving yourself of new impressions and positive emotions. Fans of antiquities and history will definitely have a place to turn around - fortresses, ruins and museums are always welcome visitors.

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What to see and where to go in Alanya?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

1. Alanya Fortress

A defensive structure of the 13th century, located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The fortification was erected under Sultan Ala ad-Din Kay-Kubad on the foundation of Roman and Byzantine buildings. To this day, the ring of outer walls and watchtowers have been almost completely preserved. From the viewing platforms located inside, a magnificent view of Alanya and the seashore opens up.

2. Red tower

Kyzyl Kule (the Turkish name for the tower) is one of the main attractions of Alanya, its image is even on the flag of the city. The facility is located in the port area. It was erected in the 13th century according to the design of an invited Arab architect. It reaches a height of 33 meters, the diameter of the walls is 29 meters. On the first floor there is an ethnographic museum, on the last floor there is an observation deck, where you can climb a stone staircase.

3. Seaport

The port of Alanya accepts passenger ships, mainly cruise ships plying the so-called "Turkish Riviera". There is also a promenade along which you can make walking promenades or ride a bike. Restaurants and cafes located on the pier offer seafood, and you can buy some memorabilia in souvenir shops.

4. Lighthouse of Alanya

The lighthouse is located on a rocky embankment at the edge of the harbor. The structure was built and assembled in France in 1880, and then transported to Alanya. The structure reaches a height of 20 meters, the lighting equipment allows the signal to be propagated over as much as 200 miles, which is approximately 370 km. The lighthouse has been working properly for more than 100 years and is a reliable reference point for ships entering the port.

5. Tersane Shipyard

The shipyard has existed since 1228, it was used for its intended purpose until 1361, providing everything necessary for the Sultan's flotilla, which dominated this section of the sea. The architecture of Tersane is an example of the building of the Seljuk period. The shipyard is located in the port of Alanya right behind the Red Tower - along the embankment you can walk to it or take a boat.

6. Archaeological Museum

The museum collection was created in 1967, but, to this day, it is replenished, as archaeological excavations are constantly being carried out in the vicinity of Alanya. The exposition consists of artifacts from several historical periods: Phrygian, Lydian, Greek, Byzantine. The halls exhibit collections of ceramics, bronze and glassware, preserved elements of the exterior decoration of buildings, and much more.

7. House Museum of Kemal Ataturk

It is perhaps difficult to find a city in Turkey where there would not be a museum dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, a reformer, innovator and statesman, who is revered in the country as the “father of the nation”. In the house in Alanya, on the territory of which the exposition is located today, he lived with his sister and mother after returning from the Syrian front. Here Atatürk held meetings and met with his associates.

8. Monument to Ataturk

The monument in honor of the first president of the Republic of Turkey was erected in Alanya on one of the central squares in 1933. In the center of the composition is the decisive figure of the leader with a hand raised in greeting (he seems to be making a speech to the people and calling on his supporters to fight). On the right side of him stands a girl with an olive branch, on the left - a young man with a Turkish flag. The sculptures are on a low pedestal against the background of a white stele.

9. Monument to Ala ad-Din Kay-Kubad I

Sultan Ala ad-Din from the Seljuk dynasty ruled Alanya in the 13th century. According to historical evidence, he was a talented military leader and a far-sighted sovereign. Today, a monument in his honor adorns the city landscape. The Sultan is depicted riding a mighty horse, his facial features are stern and resolute, in his right hand he holds a scepter with the heraldic symbol of the Seljuks.

10. Suleymaniye Mosque

The mosque was built under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century. The building is a classic example of Ottoman architecture: strict rectangular shapes, pointed arches, a spherical dome of the prayer hall and a minaret towering over the entire structure. The Muslim temple is active, so it is problematic for representatives of other religions to get inside.

11. Water Planet Water Park

The water park is located about 30 km from Alanya on the territory of the Water Planet Deluxe Hotel & Aquapark 5 *. It is a full-fledged family recreation complex with dozens of slides, pools, artificial rivers and bungee rides. The space is divided into zones for children, adult visitors and extreme sports enthusiasts, so that everyone will choose entertainment for their liking and adrenaline level.

12. Alanya Aquapark

There is also a water park in Alanya itself, so there is no need to go several tens of kilometers away. You can have a great time without leaving far from the hotel, which many tourists will appreciate. And although it is more modest in size and composition of attractions than Water Planet, it has everything you need: water slides, pools, recreation areas and standard infrastructure.

13. Sealanya Dolphinarium

Dolphinarium is located near the city in a few minutes drive. It is worth going to this place to watch spectacular shows with the participation of dolphins, sea lions and seals, which show funny tricks, which indescribably delight the audience. If you wish, you can order a session of dolphin therapy or just swim surrounded by animals to get a boost of positive energy.

14. Gardens of Alanya

City park near the coast, where you can take a walk, take a break from the sweltering sun and admire the slender rows of palm trees. Wide walking alleys are laid along the square, flower beds interspersed with green lawns are laid out throughout the territory. The picturesque landscape is complemented by fountains, stairs and wooden bridges across an artificial reservoir.

15. Dim Cave

The cave is located 12 km from Alanya on the territory of the Western Taurus mountain range in the gorge of the Dim Chay River. It is the second largest in Turkey. Speleologists discovered the grotto in 1986, since 1998 it has been open to visitors. The length of the tourist route is just over 400 meters, it consists of two sections. The most interesting is the first one, which ends with a large underground hall with a lake.

16. Damlatash cave

Damlatash is located within the city limits, literally 100 meters from the seashore, it was discovered in 1946 during the construction of the port. Previously, there was a quarry on this site. The entrance to the cave is located very conveniently, next to it there is a beach and a small market. Damlatash is not large – there is only one hall, but here you can look at the stalactites and stalagmites of incredible beauty.

17. The ancient city of Siedra

The ruins of the ancient city are located 20 km from Alanya at the junction of Cilicia and Pamphylia - the historical regions of Asia Minor. It is believed that the ancient settlement was founded in the 1st century. In ancient times, Siedra flourished - they even printed their own coin here. Reservoirs for reservoirs, a stone-lined street, part of the acropolis and a whole building with the remains of a mosaic inside have survived to this day.

18. Sapadere Canyon

The gorge is located about 40-50 km from Alanya near the village of the same name. This place is incredibly popular among tourists who want to diversify their vacation and take a hiking route, enjoying the views of the mountainous area, fresh air and the pleasant coolness of the waterfalls (some even swim in rather cold lakes). A 750-meter long path is specially equipped for visitors.

19. Dim Chai River

Dim Chay Valley, located 6 km from Alanya, is a popular holiday destination among locals - people often come here for family picnics and friendly companies. Moreover, the place is well equipped: there are cafes of national cuisine, restaurants, water activities, attractions, fishing areas, viewing platforms, gazebos and terraces. The total length of the Dim-Chay River is 60 km.

20. Cleopatra Beach

The beach is considered one of the best in Alanya and the surrounding area. This is a long, well-groomed area covered with clean sand, along which numerous hotel complexes are located. The beach is perfectly suited for families with small children due to the developed infrastructure and a gentle entrance to the sea. There is entertainment for every taste: water skiing, banana, catamarans, paragliding, a volleyball court.

Alanya (Turkey) - the most detailed information about the city with a photo. The main attractions of Alanya with descriptions, guides and maps.

Alanya city (Turkey)

Alanya is a city in southwestern Turkey, a seaport and a popular resort. Located on the Mediterranean coast, 138 km from Antalya. Alanya is an ancient city, which is one of the best preserved Seljuk cities, has many ancient monuments and natural attractions. This is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, known for its excellent sandy beaches and clear warm sea.

Geography and climate

Alanya is located in the Anatolian Gulf on the plains of Pamphylia between the Mediterranean Sea and the ridges of the Taurus Mountains. The city is divided by a rocky peninsula and is part of the Turkish Riviera. Alanya is located among picturesque landscapes with typical Mediterranean vegetation and rocky hills covered with coniferous and broad-leaved forests.

Alanya in the evening

The climate is hot Mediterranean. Summer is hot and dry. The average daily temperature from May to September is around 25-28°C. Winter is warm and humid. The greatest amount of precipitation falls from November to February. The average daily temperature in winter rarely drops below 10°C.

Practical Information

1. The population of the city is more than 250 thousand people.
2. Area - 1598.51 km².
3. Currency - Turkish lira. Although almost everywhere willingly accept dollars and euros. Therefore, there is no point in changing them to lira.
4. Visa - for up to 60 days, it is enough to have a foreign passport, the validity of which is more than four months from the date of entry into Turkey.
5. The language is Turkish.
6. Time - UTC +2, summer +3.

Alanya is one of the most popular resorts in Turkey, which is visited by 9% of all tourists. Also, 30% of all real estate purchased in the country by foreign citizens is located in Alanya.

Alanya is famous for its natural sandy beaches with clear turquoise sea. Many beaches have the prestigious Blue Flag. The length of the coastline is about 100 km. Western beaches are 34 km long, eastern - 24 km. The most famous western beaches are Cleopatra and Dalmatas, the eastern ones are Keykubat and Portakal.

Best time to visit

The best time to come to Alanya is from May to October. Already at the end of spring, the water temperature in the Mediterranean reaches 21-23 °C. In June and September the water temperature is about 25°C, and in the height of summer - 27-29°C. The hottest months are July and August. The most comfortable weather is, of course, in June and September.

Story

Historically, Alanya is located between Cilicia and Pamphylia. The surroundings of the city have been inhabited since the Paleolithic. In the 4th century BC, the Greek settlement of Korakesion existed here. Later, Cilician pirates settled here, who kept the entire Mediterranean coast in fear. Pirates were destroyed by Roman troops led by Gnaeus Pompey in the 1st century BC. Alanya reached its peak during the Roman period and was one of the most important cities in Antalya.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the city became part of the possessions of Byzantium. The Byzantines named the cities Kalonoros, which means "beautiful mountain". In the 13th century, Alanya was captured by the Seljuks, who named it Alaiye. Numerous fortifications and cultural monuments were built during this period, and the city became one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean. In the 15th century, Alanya became part of the Ottoman Empire. After that, the importance of the city declined. Alanya received its modern name in 1933 under Ataturk.

How to get there

The nearest airport is located two hours drive from Alanya in Antalya. To move between cities, you can use the bus and Turkish minibuses (dolmuş).

Shopping and shopping

Undoubtedly, Alanya is a paradise for shopaholics: jewelry, leather, shoes and bags, Turkish sweets and carpets. Main shopping areas: Cuma Bazaars, the port area and the area around Ataturk Street. In Alanya, you can find a huge number of shops selling replicas of famous brands: clothes and shoes, glasses and watches, bags and wallets.

Council - in private shops it is necessary to bargain. Often the price of goods is doubled. It is also better to take sweets by weight, having previously tasted them, often beautiful large boxes do not guarantee the quality and size of the contents.

Food and drink

In Alanya, you can try excellent Turkish cuisine, fish and seafood. Popular food: lahmacun, şiş kebab and other varieties of kebab, baklava (Turkish sweet). Finding a restaurant in Alanya according to your taste and financial possibilities is not a problem. Also, the resort, which is logical, offers a vibrant and rich nightlife. Closer to the night, numerous clubs and bars begin to work.

Attractions

Despite the fact that Alanya was founded more than two thousand years ago and Greeks, Romans and Byzantines lived here, almost all the most famous sights were built by the Seljuks.

The fortress is one of the symbols of Alanya. The medieval walls are 6.5 km long. They were equipped with 140 towers and included 400 tanks. The eastern part of the fortress is very picturesque. Here the walls descend to the very sea to the Red Tower. Alanya Castle was built by the Seljuks in the 13th century on Hellenistic foundations. Several historical buildings have been preserved in the castle: cisterns, baths and a Byzantine church.

The Red Tower (Kizil Kule) is a powerful medieval octagonal building, which is one of the most famous sights of Alanya. The tower is 33 meters high and was built of red brick in the 13th century to watch over the harbour.

Shipyard (Tersane) - a medieval shipbuilding facility built in the 13th century by the Seljuks. Located south of the Red Tower. Five arched galleries, where ships used to be made, have been preserved here. At the top of the cliff there is an armory house where cannons were made.

Sulaymaniyah is an ancient mosque with a brick minaret built in the 13th century. The building was rebuilt in the 16th century.

What to do in Alanya:

• A ride on the cable car and a visit to the castle of the same name.
• Boating.
• Exploration of Damlatash cave.
• Exploring the Alanya Museum.
• Swimming on the Cleopatra beach.
• Visit to the Sapadere Canyon.

Impressive ancient ruins of an ancient city with a magnificent Roman theater.

The main city and port of ancient Pamphylia with a huge historical and cultural heritage in the form of Greek and Roman ruins.

Seleucia - romantic ruins of an ancient city, located in a picturesque pine forest.