Friends, think of a sunlit headland crowned by stone ramparts, a cable car floating over palm‑lined promenades, and coves where clear water meets cool shade.

Alanya blends beach days with canyon walks, caves, and a compact old quarter. Use this guide plan—realistic costs, timings, and transit—to map a smooth, memorable stay on Türkiye’s Riviera.

Hilltop castle

Walk or ride up to the walled promontory for sweeping coast‑to‑mountain views. Allow 2–3 unrushed hours. Typical combined site tickets run $4–$10, or explore free sections along lanes and overlooks. Wear grippy shoes; sun hits hard by late morning, so start early or near sunset.

Red Tower

This octagonal landmark guards the harbor with panoramic decks and concise exhibits on local crafts. Entry is usually $3–$6; 30–45 minutes suits. Pair it with the nearby waterfront for photos of stone walls, bright boats, and the high ridge beyond.

Seljuk shipyard

Steps from the tower, vaulted bays of a 13th‑century dockyard line the water. It’s a quick, shady stop—often free or a few dollars when staffed. Spend 20 minutes tracing arches and the coastal path, then continue along ramparts for sea‑level angles of the bluff.

Cleopatra Beach

A long arc of sand sits under the citadel’s cliffs with gentle surf most days. Access is free; chair‑and‑umbrella sets typically $6–$12/day. The wide promenade adds play areas and shaded benches. Pack a hat and light shirt—the midday sand gets hot.

Cable car

Glide from the seafront to castle heights in about seven minutes. Round‑trip fares often land at $8–$15; cars run every few minutes until evening. Board late afternoon for golden‑hour light and cooler air; keep a small water bottle handy.

Damlataş Cave

Just inland from the beach, this compact cavern showcases stalactites and steady 22°C air. Entry typically $3–$6; 20–30 minutes fits. Humidity is high, so carry a small towel and mind the steps. It’s an easy rain‑or‑heat backup plan near cafés and shops.

Dim River

Up the valley, platforms and jetties sit above cool, clear flow—ideal for a shaded lunch and quick toe‑dips. Local rides reach the riverside in 20–30 minutes; expect $10–$20 for a casual meal and drinks. Bring light layers; valley breezes can feel fresh.

Dim Cave

Continue uphill to a deeper cave with long chambers and steady 19°C air. Entry is generally $4–$7; 30–45 minutes works. There are many steps and some narrow walkways; closed‑toe shoes help. The hillside viewpoint offers wide shots back to the bay.

Sapadere Canyon

North‑east of town, wooden walkways trace turquoise cascades between high rock walls. Join a small‑group tour with hotel pickup ($30–$55) or self‑drive in about an hour. Plan 1–2 hours in the gorge plus a village lunch; pack water shoes if wading.

Harbor stroll

The marina promenade layers gardens, palms, and sea views with benches facing the headland. It’s free, flat, and lovely at dusk. Walk the south arm for photos of the tower, shipyard arches, and the fortress line above the cliffs.

City museum

Near the beach, a compact collection presents regional finds—coins, statuary, inscriptions—and everyday objects. Entry usually $2–$5; 45–60 minutes fits. It’s a thoughtful cool‑down stop before or after the cave and promenade.

View terrace

For the city’s best free panorama, ride 10–15 minutes up to a hillside belvedere. Expect shaded seating, a small café, and a telescope. Go just before sunset for mirror‑bright water and the peninsula in silhouette; evenings draw picnicking families.

Old bazaar

Browse textiles, spices, sandals, and beach gear along lively streets. It’s free to wander; small souvenirs often $2–$10. Bargaining is friendly; carry small notes and check return policies for packaged goods.

Coast cruise

Half‑day boats circle caves and coves beneath the cliffs with swim stops and a grilled lunch. Prices commonly $20–$35 including soft drinks. Bring a hat, reef‑safe sunscreen, and a dry bag. Morning departures see calmer water; afternoons glow warmer.

Scuba & snorkel

Intro dives (pool demo + two shallow sites) generally $35–$70 including lunch; certified dives $30–$50 per tank. Non‑divers can join to swim and sun on deck (reduced rate). Basic masks and snorkels rent for a few dollars—bring your own if preferred.

Plan & stay

- Getting there: Flights to Antalya + 2–2.5‑hour transfer; intercity coaches reach Alanya’s otogar near the center.

- Getting around: Local buses and short taxis cover beach, harbor, cable car, and malls; rides are typically $3–$8.

- Stays: Seafront hotels and apartment suites often run $60–$140/night; book June–September early.

- Getting around: Local buses and short taxis cover beach, harbor, cable car, and malls; rides are typically $3–$8.

- Stays: Seafront hotels and apartment suites often run $60–$140/night; book June–September early.

Conclusion

Alanya shines when days braid one hilltop view, one cool cave or canyon, and one blue‑water hour—bright, breezy, and easy to plan. Which trio starts the trip: cable car + fortress lanes + harbor walk, a canyon‑and‑river loop, or a beach morning stitched to a cave and sunset cruise?